How to Plan a Trip to Cusco
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Peru needs.
Your 4-step Cusco plan
Step 1 — Book flights to CUZ
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is the main gateway to Cusco. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to CUZStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Plaza de Armas + Cusco Cathedral for the best first-time visit — Cusco's spiritual + commercial heart — Spanish colonial church built on Inca foundations.
Where to stay in CuscoStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Plaza de Armas + Cusco Cathedral, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Cusco.
Things to do in CuscoStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Combi (shared minibus) is PEN 1 and takes 20 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
CUZ arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Visa-free for US, UK, EU, Canada, AU, NZ, Japan, Korea + 100 nationalities (90-183 days). Onward ticket may be requested. Yellow fever certificate from endemic countries.