CUZ Airport Transfer | Cusco International — Machu Picchu Gateway

Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (IATA: CUZ) is 3 kilometres from the historic city centre and operates at 3,399 metres above sea level. It is the arrival point for the majority of visitors to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the Inca Trail. The altitude effect is immediate for most passengers arriving from sea level. Your LocalsRide driver is confirmed and positioned with a name sign in arrivals — you proceed directly to your vehicle without standing in taxi queues at altitude.

Key Transfers from CUZ

Cusco Historic Centre and Plaza de Armas: 3 km, 10–15 min. San Blas: 4 km, 15–20 min. Poroy Station (PeruRail): 12 km, 25–35 min. Urubamba (Sacred Valley): 50 km, 70–90 min. Ollantaytambo Station: 65 km, 90–110 min. Pisac market: 35 km, 50–70 min. Chinchero: 28 km, 40–55 min.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

How long is the drive from Cusco Airport to the city centre?

The airport is 3 kilometres from Plaza de Armas — approximately 10–15 minutes. A pre-booked private car is particularly valuable at altitude: you proceed directly to your vehicle without queuing or negotiating while acclimatising at 3,400m.

Can I transfer directly from Cusco Airport to Ollantaytambo for the Machu Picchu train?

Yes — the 65-kilometre drive to Ollantaytambo takes 90–110 minutes via Chinchero. Travellers on early Lima–Cusco flights often book this direct transfer to catch the morning Vistadome, completing the full Machu Picchu itinerary without an overnight in Cusco.