Safety in Cusco: Updated guide for travelers and tourists

Traveling to Cusco is, for many, fulfilling the dream of visiting one of the most impressive and vibrant cities in South America. However, safety is always on the mind of any responsible traveler. Is Cusco a safe destination for tourists? What risks truly exist and how can you avoid them? This updated guide offers clear answers, practical tips, and concrete data so you can enjoy your trip without setbacks, whether you’re traveling solo, in a group, or with family.

Throughout my visits to Cusco, I’ve noticed that the perception of insecurity often doesn’t match the reality experienced on the streets. Sure, you need to be cautious, but the truth is that millions of travelers walk its streets every year without major issues. Still, knowing the real risks, the safest areas, and the best prevention strategies can make the difference between an unforgettable vacation and a bad experience.

Current safety situation for tourism in Cusco

Cusco as a safe destination: statistics vs. perception

Cusco is considered one of the most important tourist destinations in Peru and South America. According to recent data from the Peruvian Ministry of the Interior, the rate of serious crimes against tourists in the city is low compared to other Latin American cities. However, the perception of insecurity can rise due to isolated reports or negative experiences shared on social media.

In my experience, most reported incidents are minor thefts or simple scams, and they usually occur in areas with high tourist traffic. Therefore, staying informed and taking basic precautions is often enough to enjoy your trip without surprises.

Crime rates and comparative tourist safety

Compared to other similar tourist cities, such as Quito or La Paz, Cusco presents moderate crime rates. The tourist police constantly patrol the main areas, and there are surveillance cameras in strategic points like the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) and the historic center.

City	Rate of crimes against tourists
Cusco	Low-moderate
Lima (Miraflores)	Moderate
Quito	Moderate-high
La Paz	High

This data shows that, while no place is 100% safe, Cusco maintains acceptable standards for international tourism.

Changes in the safety situation post-pandemic

The pandemic brought a temporary reduction in tourism and a slight increase in opportunistic crimes during months of less surveillance. However, police presence and controls at major tourist access points have now been strengthened.

I’ve noticed that local authorities have implemented informative campaigns aimed at travelers on how to act in emergencies and avoid risky situations.

Areas with high tourist traffic and safety levels

• Main Square (Plaza de Armas): Heavily monitored during the day; moderate caution at night.
• San Blas neighborhood: Safe during the day; some reports of nighttime thefts.
• San Pedro Market: Busy and safe during business hours; avoid nighttime visits.
• Sacsayhuamán: Archaeological site well-guarded during tourist hours.

Main risks and prevention strategies

The 5 most common scams targeting tourists

• Fraudulent currency exchange: Fake bills or incorrect change at unofficial exchange houses.
• Illegal tours: Ghost agencies that disappear after payment.
• Fake tour guides: Unaccredited individuals offering improvised tours.
• Deceptive ticket sales: Counterfeit tickets for Machu Picchu or Sacsayhuamán.
• Fake police: Pretend to conduct checks to review documentation and steal money or passports.

In my opinion, it’s best to book tours and exchanges only at recognized places and always ask for official credentials.

Pickpocketing: modus operandi and prevention techniques

Pickpocketing usually occurs in crowded areas. Back pockets, open backpacks, and visible cell phones are easy targets. Personally, I always carry my backpack in front of me in markets or crowded buses and use inner pockets for valuable items.

• Keep your belongings close to your body
• Don’t display large amounts of cash in public
• Be discreet with expensive electronic devices

Specialized scams: fake police, fraudulent exchange, illegal tours

If someone dressed as a police officer requests your documents in public, insist on seeing their official identification and offer to go together to a nearby police station. For currency exchange, use only recognized exchange houses. Tours should be booked through established agencies; be wary of offers that are too cheap.

Risks in peripheral areas and poorly lit zones

Areas away from the center often lack good lighting and frequent patrols. In my experience, avoiding solitary walks in these sectors at night significantly reduces the risk of incidents. If you need to move outside the historic center after dark, it’s better to use official taxis or recognized apps.

Safety by specific sectors of the city

Main Square and historic center: daytime vs. nighttime safety

During the day, the Main Square is one of the safest places due to the constant police presence. At night, while it remains relatively safe, pickpocketing or small thefts can occur if you stray into less busy streets. Personally, I recommend returning to your accommodation early after dinner or going out with someone if you want to enjoy the nightlife.

San Pedro Market and popular commercial areas

San Pedro Market is fascinating for its colorfulness and authenticity. However, as it tends to be crowded, it is a hotspot for pickpockets. I always keep my phone in inner pockets and avoid wearing flashy jewelry when I visit. It’s recommended to visit this market in the morning or early afternoon.

San Blas neighborhood: precautions for nighttime hours

San Blas is bohemian and charming, but its steep streets can be lonely at night. The truth is, I prefer not to walk alone there after 9 PM. If you have accommodation in the area, opt for a taxi after dinner or if you go out to local bars.

Sacsayhuamán and peri-urban archaeological sites

Sacsayhuamán has good security during established tourist hours (usually until 5 PM-6 PM). Avoid exploring isolated ruins without a guide or outside permitted hours. Park rangers are trained to respond to minor emergencies.

Neighborhoods and areas not recommended for tourists

• Peripheral areas far from the historic center
• Poorly lit avenues and residential neighborhoods outside the tourist circuit
• Areas near land terminals at night

Safety in transportation

Identification of official taxis vs. informal services

Official taxis have visible license plates and are usually affiliated with recognized companies. Avoid getting into taxis without identification or private vehicles offered on the street. I always request a taxi from my hotel or use reliable apps rather than risk informal services.

Transport apps: safety and precautions

Apps like Uber or Beat work well in Cusco, although their presence may vary according to local regulations. Always check the driver’s information and share your location with someone you trust before starting the ride.

Safety protocols in terminals and stations

• Do not accept spontaneous help for carrying luggage from anyone other than identified official staff
• Keep your belongings in sight while waiting for your bus or train
• Arrive with enough time to avoid rushing and forgetting things

Recommendations for safe interprovincial travel

Buy tickets only at official ticket offices within the land terminal. Recognized companies maintain better safety standards both in vehicles and at intermediate stops. Do not board buses from informal points on the road.

Health and safety in high altitude conditions

Altitude sickness: prevention, recognition, and treatment

At nearly 11,200 feet above sea level, many visitors experience soroche (altitude sickness). Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. To prevent it:

• Drink water frequently and avoid alcohol in the first hours
• Avoid intense physical exertion upon arrival
• Chew coca leaves or drink local infusions (if there are no medical contraindications)

Specialized medical services for tourists

Cusco has private clinics like Clínica Pardo and several tourist health centers near the center. These centers offer care in English and services tailored to common emergencies among foreigners.

Essential medications and travel first aid kit

• Basic pain relievers (acetaminophen/ibuprofen)
• Patches or creams for bites and mild irritations
• Hand sanitizer and small adhesive bandages

International travel insurance: when is it necessary

It is not mandatory to have international medical insurance to enter Peru, but I believe it is essential to have one that covers medical evacuations or serious emergencies, especially if you plan to visit Machu Picchu or other remote areas.

Emergency medical services available 24/7

Number/Service	Quick description
106 – SAMU (Emergency)	Public ambulances 24/7
Peruvian Red Cross Cusco	Urgent medical assistance for tourists
Clínica Pardo / O2 Medical Network	Private specialized care for foreign travelers

Safety in accommodation and protection of belongings

Criteria for selecting safe accommodations

Check recent reviews (Booking, Google Maps), verify if there is a safe available, and ask about nighttime protocols before booking. Prefer central accommodations with 24-hour reception.

Protocols for protecting valuable items and documents

• Do not carry your passport all the time; keep a digital copy and only use the original when necessary (for example, train to Machu Picchu)
• Request to store valuable items in the safe or official storage of the hotel/hostel
• Do not display jewelry or expensive watches outside your accommodation

Precautions with luggage and personal belongings

Small locks for backpacks are very helpful both on buses and in budget hotels. Never lose sight of your luggage when checking in/out, and don’t trust your backpack to «friendly» strangers. In shared hostels, use lockers whenever possible.

Security systems in different types of accommodation

• Premium accommodations: CCTV cameras, 24/7 staff, individual safes
• Boutique/hostels: permanent reception or basic cameras; ask about individual lockers
• Tourist apartments: check for robust locks; keep valuable items out of sight

Specialized guide for female travelers

Safety for women on solo trips

Cusco is a popular destination among solo female travelers; however, it is wise to maintain certain extra precautions at night or when socializing with strangers. It is advisable to inform someone about your daily plans and avoid returning late alone on foot to your accommodation.

Selection of safe neighborhoods and accommodations

The Historic Center and areas near Regocijo Square tend to be safer. Read specific reviews written by other women before booking a hostel or hotel.

Handling harassment and inappropriate behavior situations

Do not hesitate to firmly reject uncomfortable proposals; if you feel harassed, seek immediate help from local staff or enter a nearby busy store. Keep useful numbers (tourist police) handy before your trip in case you need quick assistance.

Safe socialization strategies with other travelers

• Clarify expectations before going out with newly met people (group outings are preferable)
• Do not share sensitive details about your accommodation with strangers
• Follow your intuition: if a situation makes you uncomfortable, leave without hesitation

Emergency resources and support contacts

Tourist police and 24-hour assistance lines

• Free Tourist Police Line: 51-84-237147 (24/7)
• General emergency line: 105 (National Police)
• SAMU ambulances: 106

Consular representations and embassies

Cusco has important honorary consulates such as those of the United States, Spain, and Italy; it is advisable to have the main phone numbers noted before your trip in case any consular emergency arises.

Mobile apps for emergency situations

• IAmSafePeru: Instant alert to predetermined contacts
• Telesalud MINSA: Quick remote medical consultation
• SOS Emergency App: Geolocated notifications

Complete directory of emergency numbers

Number / Service	Specific case / Recommended use
105 – National Police	All general police emergencies
106 – SAMU Ambulances	Acute medical attacks / serious accidents
Consular line USA: 51-84-231474	Lost passport / urgent consular assistance

Responsible behavior protocols

Appropriate conduct in rural communities and sacred sites

Show respect for local traditions: ask for permission before photographing people or ritual objects; dress appropriately, especially when entering temples or during religious festivities.

Responsible handling of valuable items and exhibition of wealth

Do not flaunt jewelry or expensive electronic equipment unnecessarily; keep cash distributed among different pockets/small bags.

Alert signals and risk situations to recognize

• Unexpected crowds where strangers try to distract you
• Unsolicited persistent «help» (carrying bags/offering improvised tours)

Principles of responsible travel and cultural respect

Cusco is a vibrant city where deep history and contemporary identity coexist. Traveling responsibly means caring for the natural/archaeological environment, respecting simple urban norms (not graffitiing walls or leaving trash), and positively contributing to local cultural exchange.

Frequently asked questions about safety in Cusco for tourists

• Is it safe to walk alone in Cusco?
  During the day, yes; at night, it’s better to move with someone or use official taxis if you stray from the historic center.
• Do I need special vaccinations to visit Cusco?
  No mandatory vaccinations are required for international travelers specifically visiting Cusco city; only consult if traveling to nearby jungle areas.
• Is card payment accepted or only cash?
  Large hotels/restaurants accept cards; local markets prefer cash (better to carry Peruvian soles).