Por: Huillca Expedition
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is one of the most visited destinations in South America.
Whether you're traveling to hike the Inca Trail, visit Machu Picchu, or simply explore its colonial architecture and Andean landscapes, one of the first questions that arises is: how to get to Cusco?
In this updated 2025 guide, we explain all the transportation options to reach Cusco, whether from Lima, other regions of Peru, or even from abroad. Discover the fastest, most comfortable, and most affordable way depending on your travel type.
Getting to Cusco by Plane: The Fastest Option
The most common and fastest way to reach Cusco is by plane. Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) receives daily flights from Lima, Arequipa, Juliaca, Trujillo, and also international flights from Santiago, Bogotá, La Paz, and soon from Quito and São Paulo.
Main air routes:
- From Lima to Cusco: 1h 15min flight. Over 20 daily departures.
- From Arequipa to Cusco: around 1 hour.
- From abroad: flights operated by LATAM, JetSmart, Avianca, Sky, among others.
Tips:
- Book in advance if you're traveling between May and September (high season).
- Morning flights have a lower risk of fog-related delays.
- If coming from abroad, it’s common to have a layover in Lima.
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Getting to Cusco by Bus: A More Affordable Experience
If you have more time or want to enjoy the road experience, the bus is an excellent option. Most overland routes to Cusco depart from Lima, Arequipa, Puno, or Puerto Maldonado.
Popular route: Lima – Cusco
- Duration: 20 to 24 hours
- Distance: approx. 1,100 km
- Recommended companies: Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, Civa, Movil Tours
- Service types: economy, semi-bed, and 180° bed
Advantages:
- Cheaper than flying
- More luggage allowance
- Possibility to stop in other cities like Nazca, Abancay, or Ayacucho
Recommendation:
- Choose overnight services to save on lodging and travel more comfortably
- Consider less winding routes if you get motion sickness (e.g., via Arequipa)
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Is There a Train to Cusco?
There is currently no direct train from Lima to Cusco, but there are train routes from Cusco to Machu Picchu, via Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
However, if your trip includes a train experience, you can do the following:
- Arrive in Cusco by plane or bus
- Travel to Ollantaytambo
- Take the train to Machu Picchu (PeruRail or Inca Rail)
The train is a key part of the journey to Machu Picchu, not to Cusco itself.
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Other Transportation Options to Cusco
Private or Rental Car
Traveling to Cusco by car is possible but not recommended for those without experience driving in Andean roads. The route is long, with many curves, slopes, and heavy traffic in some sections.
- Travel time from Lima: 18 to 22 hours
- Caution during the rainy season (January to March)
- Recommended only for experienced travelers with basic mechanical knowledge
Tours with Included Transportation
Some travel agencies offer packages with transportation to Cusco, especially from Puno, Arequipa, or Puerto Maldonado. A good option if you prefer to avoid logistics.
Where Can You Travel to Cusco From?
Cusco is accessible from various points in Peru, both by air and land. Below are the main routes to the imperial city based on your departure location:
From Lima to Cusco
The most common and direct route.
- By plane: Approx. 1h 15min. More than 20 daily flights operated by LATAM, SKY, JetSmart, and Viva.
- By bus: 20 to 24 hours, with various schedules and service levels (economy, semi-bed, and 180° bed). Ideal for budget travelers or those wanting to stop in cities like Nazca or Abancay.
Tip: If traveling by bus, choose night routes to save time and money.
From Arequipa to Cusco
Perfect for those exploring southern Peru.
- By plane: Approx. 1 hour, with regular departures from Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón Airport
- By bus: 9 to 10 hours, depending on the company and service type. A scenic route with views of the Altiplano.
You can also combine this trip with a visit to Colca Canyon or the Sillar Route.
From Puno to Cusco
A popular Andean route for those coming from Lake Titicaca.
- By bus: 6 to 8 hours, with companies like Turismo Mer, Inka Express, or Cruz del Sur
- By organized tour: 1-day packages including cultural stops at sites like Raqchi, Andahuaylillas, and Pukara
This is one of the most complete routes for travelers seeking to learn about the Andean highlands.
From Puerto Maldonado to Cusco
A connection between jungle and mountains.
- By plane: 1 hour, with daily flights from Padre Aldamiz Airport
- By bus: 8 to 10 hours. A more economical option that lets you appreciate the transition from the Amazon to the Andes.
Ideal for combining with a visit to Tambopata National Reserve or Manu National Park.
From Which Countries Can You Travel to Cusco Internationally?
While most travelers arrive in Cusco via Lima’s international airport, there are an increasing number of direct international flights to the imperial city from neighboring South American countries, making international access easier than ever.
Below are the most common international routes to Cusco in 2025, including direct flights, recommended layovers, and efficient alternatives for travelers coming from the Americas or Europe.
From Chile
Direct Route:
- Santiago de Chile – Cusco
- Duration: approx. 3 hours and 30 minutes
- Airlines: LATAM, JetSmart (seasonal availability)
Alternative with stopover:
- Santiago – Lima – Cusco
- High availability of flights year-round
From Colombia
Direct Route:
- Bogotá – Cusco
- Duration: approx. 3 hours
- Airlines: Avianca and LATAM (mainly in high season)
Option with stopover:
From Bolivia
Direct Route:
-
La Paz – Cusco
-
Duration: approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes
-
Airlines: BOA, Amaszonas, LATAM
Alternative by land:
From Brazil
Scheduled Direct Route:
- São Paulo – Cusco
- Operated by LATAM and Sky Airline
- Seasonal flights, mainly during high season
Connection Route:
- São Paulo – Lima – Cusco
- More frequent and flexible options
From Argentina
There are currently no direct flights to Cusco, but there are excellent options with connections:
Alternatives:
- Buenos Aires – Lima – Cusco
- Buenos Aires – Santiago – Cusco
- Total travel time: 8 to 12 hours depending on connection time
From the United States, Europe, and Other Continents
International travelers coming from outside South America typically reach Cusco via Lima. Some of the most popular routes include:
From the United States:
- Miami, Houston, New York, or Los Angeles – Lima – Cusco
- Airlines: American Airlines, United, LATAM, JetBlue
From Europe:
- Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, Amsterdam, or London – Lima – Cusco
- Airlines: Iberia, Air Europa, KLM, Air France, LATAM
Tip:
Book flights with longer layovers in Lima to avoid issues if there are delays in immigration or baggage handling.
Recommendations for International Travelers
- Book domestic legs (such as Lima – Cusco) together with your international flights when possible
- Check baggage policies of low-cost airlines like Sky or JetSmart
- Carry all booking confirmations in print or digital format, especially if you booked connecting flights separately
- If you arrive in Lima at night, consider staying overnight and flying to Cusco early the next day
Tips for Your Arrival in Cusco
- Acclimatization: Cusco is located at 3,400 meters (11,155 ft) above sea level. Take 1–2 days to adapt before engaging in strenuous activities.
- Avoid altitude sickness: Stay hydrated, eat light, and try coca tea.
- Book in advance: During high season (June–August), everything fills up quickly.
- Check the weather: Bring layered clothing. Expect dry cold in the mornings, heat at midday, and possible rain.
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