Solo Female Travel in Cusco

Cusco is the former capital of the Inca Empire and a popular tourist destination due to its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and its proximity to Machu Picchu. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, its colonial-era churches, and its many archaeological sites. It is also a great place to explore the local cuisine, with many restaurants serving traditional Peruvian dishes.

Experiences from Cusco

Overall rating

5 /5

based on 5 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

5/5

Safety

4.8/5

Food

5/5

Budget-friendly

4.4/5

Solo travel experience

I loved Cusco. Went to the San Pedro market, it was amazing, lots of cheap food stalls there. I stayed at Niños Hotel Fierro, and it was so adorable and had great service. Also, got altitude sickness meds from my doctor, so I didn't have to worry about acclimating.

Posted: April 11, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I felt very safe walking around the city and I loved their “made from scratch” meals, even while backpacking to Machu Picchu and Choquequirao ruins. Everything was very inexpensive and buses felt safe. I didn't rent a car and I wouldn’t recommend one since their driving habits are quite different. People have been incredibly helpful and gracious along the way.

Posted: March 30, 2023
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We went to Peru in May and we felt incredibly safe in Cusco, to the point where we commented to one another about how relaxed we felt. It’s a wonderful, wonderful place to spend a few days. We did a small-group trek with Salkantay Trekking to Machu Picchu, and thought it was well-done. We had no problems with language in any of these places, as there are so many tourists who go to Peru nowadays. We even took an overnight bus and didn’t feel remotely unsafe at the station or on the bus, though I hear you need to be careful about which routes you take.

Posted: November 29, 2022
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Visit the Sacred Valley, Arequipa and Puno (these two cities are easy to reach from Cuzco and are worth to visit).

Posted: October 27, 2022
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Don't do Machu Picchu from Cusco. Go to the Sacred Valley first then Machu Picchu then Cusco. You want to start low and then go high. If you go first to Cusco you're much more likely to experience altitude sickness.

Posted: October 23, 2022
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Get answers to your travel questions

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Where to stay in Cusco?

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Best restaurants in Cusco?

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Frequently asked questions

Is Cusco safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Cusco is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, it is important to take the same precautions as you would in any other city. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables secure.

Is Cusco good for solo travel?

Yes, Cusco is a great destination for solo travelers. The city is very safe and there are plenty of activities to do and sights to see. There are also many hostels and hotels that cater to solo female travelers, so you can easily find a place to stay.

Is Cusco expensive for solo travellers?

Cusco can be expensive for solo travelers, depending on the type of accommodation and activities you choose. However, plenty of budget-friendly options are available, such as hostels, budget restaurants, and free walking tours. With careful planning, it is possible to enjoy Cusco on a budget.

What to do in Cusco solo?

Explore the Historic Center

Cusco’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of fascinating Incan and colonial architecture. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and explore the many churches, plazas, and museums.

Visit the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a stunning area of Peru located just outside of Cusco. Spend a day exploring the ruins, markets, and villages of the valley.

Take a Cooking Class

Learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina.

Go Hiking

Cusco is surrounded by stunning mountains and trails. Spend a day exploring the area’s natural beauty.

Visit the Museums

Cusco is home to several museums, including the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, the Museum of Religious Art, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Shop at the Markets

Cusco’s markets are full of unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and traditional clothing.

Take a Day Trip

Cusco is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Take a day trip to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, or the nearby town of Pisac.

Is Cusco safe to travel alone?

Yes, Cusco is generally safe to travel alone. However, it is important to take the usual precautions when travelling alone, such as avoiding walking alone at night, being aware of your surroundings, and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

Is Cusco safe at night?

Yes, Cusco is generally safe at night. However, it is always advisable to take the same precautions you would in any other city, such as avoiding dark alleys and being aware of your surroundings.

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