Cusco Airport Transfer (CUZ)

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The airport is 3 kilometres from Plaza de Armas in central Cusco — approximately 10–15 minutes. Traffic on the access road can extend this to 20 minutes in peak afternoon periods. Despite the short distance, a pre-booked private car transfer is particularly valuable at altitude: you do not queue, negotiate, or carry luggage beyond the minimum necessary while acclimatising.

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

Yes — this is one of the most popular transfers from CUZ. The 65-kilometre drive to Ollantaytambo takes 90–110 minutes via Chinchero. Travellers arriving on early Lima–Cusco flights often book this direct transfer to catch the Vistadome train, completing the full Machu Picchu itinerary without an overnight acclimatisation stop in Cusco.