Rent a Car in Cusco

Tips for renting a car in Cusco

Unlike many destinations, renting a car in Cusco is not always the most practical option for exploring the city itself, as the historic center features narrow colonial streets, limited parking, and heavy pedestrian activity. However, a rental vehicle can be useful for travelers planning to explore parts of the Sacred Valley and surrounding regions independently.

Major rental companies and local agencies operate from Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport and throughout Cusco. Compact vehicles and SUVs are the most common options, particularly for travelers planning to drive through mountainous terrain and rural areas surrounding the city.

A rental car allows visitors to explore destinations such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Andahuaylillas, Tipón, and other archaeological and cultural attractions throughout the Sacred Valley. Travelers can also reach lesser-visited villages and viewpoints that are difficult to access through organized tours alone.

Driving around Cusco requires caution due to mountain roads, high-altitude conditions, local traffic patterns, and occasionally challenging road infrastructure. Many visitors choose guided tours or private drivers instead of self-driving. However, for experienced travelers seeking flexibility and independence, renting a car can provide access to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.