Exploring Cusco by car is attracting more and more travelers eager to discover the best places near the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Why? Because many of us are tired of crowded tours. Others are looking for a more authentic way to connect with the people of Cusco. Or, sometimes, we simply want to explore on our own, without anyone rushing us.
That's why renting a car in Cusco for a few days is an excellent way to break away from the usual. Heading to Pisac, making your way to Moray, and discovering the Sacred Valley on your own is an experience worth having. Stopping at a roadside restaurant, talking with the locals, and learning more about what goes on in these Andean lands is a more authentic way to travel.
At Rentennials, we want more people to feel inspired to discover each destination in their own way. With freedom, getting up close with the local culture, and traveling responsibly. That's why we've put together this guide to exploring one of the most breathtaking places on the planet.
Why is exploring Cusco by car a great option?
Exploring Cusco by car is another way to get to know this destination up close. Getting in a car and starting to drive along Peruvian roads will allow you to stop wherever you want and manage your own schedule. You'll also get to try that local food that doesn't appear on any social media or meet people you would never encounter on a traditional tour.
Also, there are places that are not on conventional routes. For example, Tipón or Urubamba are usually not included in tours. Just imagine arriving at an archaeological site with very few people and having the history and landscape all to yourself. It will all have been worth it.
How many meters above sea level is Cusco?
The city of Cusco is at 3400 meters above sea level. It is an altitude to be mindful of and take the appropriate precautions, but with a good acclimatization during the first days you will avoid several problems.
The best thing is to follow the 5 tips to prevent altitude sickness in Peru to enjoy your trip without complications.
What time of year is it best to visit Cusco?
If you're already planning to explore Cusco by car, the best time to travel is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. Temperatures are most likely to be pleasant and skies mostly clear, making it easy to visit every archaeological site without any difficulties.
Between November and March is the rainy season, so roads tend to be muddy with a risk of landslides. The upside of these months is that you'll find greener landscapes and fewer tourists.
Best months? April and October can offer a combination of fewer crowds and little rainfall.
Whatever month you choose for your road trip through Cusco, it is recommended that you book in advance, whether it's hotels, flight tickets, or entry tickets to the places you want to visit.
Places to visit near Cusco by car (less than 2 hours away)
In the surroundings of Cusco there are many places to explore up close. Without crowds, with a different spirit and uncovering some dazzling secrets.
A recommendation: check the Cusco Tourist Ticket which allows you to enter many archaeological sites by paying only once.
Below we share our 5 must-see places:
Tipón, an open-air museum
Just 27 km southeast of Cusco lies the Tipón Archaeological Park, an impressive Inca agricultural and hydraulic complex. During the height of this empire, it was a sanctuary dedicated to water. What makes it fascinating is that it still preserves irrigation channels, canals and aqueducts in perfect condition. This precision of Inca hydraulic engineering was always recognized by everyone, even by the colonial chroniclers themselves.
Tip: you can spend between 1 and 2 hours here, it's ideal for a short but history-packed stop, and it's included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket.
How to get from Cusco to Tipón by car? You need to take Highway 3S to the town of Choquepata. Here we leave you the route map.
Chinchero, where Inca and colonial meet
To the north of Cusco, about 30 km away and at 3780 meters above sea level, Chinchero is one of those reflections of the past that bring together the Inca and the colonial. This is characteristic of the entire Andean region of Peru: a blend of the splendor of the Inca empire with elements of the Spanish colonial period.
What can you do in Chinchero? You'll start by exploring the Main Square with its iconic colonial arches and 12 Inca ceremonial niches. Another must-see is the Church of Our Lady of Montserrat (from the 16th century), built on Inca walls and featuring frescoes from the Cusco school of art. Finally, don't miss the remains of the palace of Túpac Yupanqui with its imposing Inca walls.
The Chinchero Market is one of the best places to experience a traditional Peruvian artisan market, with textile bartering and weaving demonstrations using natural dyes.
Tip: you can explore it in half a day and it's included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket.
How to get from Cusco to Chinchero by car? You need to take Highway 3S heading north and turn right onto route CU 1151. Here we leave you the route map.
Písac, a showcase of agricultural terraces
To the north of Cusco, just 30 km away, lies the archaeological site of Písac. Here you'll observe the traditional agricultural terraces on the hillsides that Andean communities developed long ago. Fun fact? Due to the challenging geographical features, the peoples of these territories implemented a very particular farming method: "cutting into" the hillsides to make the mountains productive.
Another point of interest is the Inca astronomical observatory used for sun-based rituals. In addition, the town of Písac located in the valley is truly beautiful. With its square, its church and its famous artisan market.
Tip: Písac is part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket and you can visit it in half a day.
How to get from Cusco to Písac by car? You need to take Highway 28G heading north to the town of Písac. Here we leave you the route map.
Moray, an Inca laboratory
Perhaps Moray is the most mysterious place in the surroundings of Cusco. After driving about 60 km you'll come across spiral-shaped agricultural terraces. This was an agricultural laboratory where the Incas researched the best climatic conditions for each crop.
As soon as you arrive, you'll see a large crater 45 m deep and several levels of terraces that reproduce unique microclimates. Each terrace was probably a representation of the diverse climates of the empire.
Tip: Moray is also part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket and it's worth combining your visit with Maras.
How to get from Cusco to Moray by car? You need to take Highway 3S heading west to the city of Anta. There you need to turn onto highway 111 toward Maras and follow the signs. Here we leave you the route map.
Urubamba, discovering the other side of Cusco
Very close to Moray lies Urubamba, an important city in the Sacred Valley. Driving here from Cusco means discovering the other side of the Peruvian Andean world. A blend of culture, history and nature that will surprise you.
Being located farther from Cusco, the Urubamba market is authentic and full of fresh produce and handicrafts. Another unmissable spot is the Church and the main square, a fine example of colonial architecture. To round off the day, the Quespihuanca archaeological center and pre-Inca chullpas are very accessible on foot. At lunch, be sure to try traditional dishes such as cuy or pachamanca.
If you enjoy adventure activities, Urubamba offers rafting on the Vilcanota river, kayaking, canopy and quad biking.
A tip: combine the visit to Urubamba with Moray and, if you want, stay overnight in a place with a different atmosphere than Cusco.
How to get from Cusco to Urubamba by car? It's the same route that takes you to Moray, but you need to continue a few more kilometers to Urubamba. Here we leave you the route map.
Can you get to Machu Picchu by car?
This is one of the most frequent questions for those looking to explore Cusco by car, and the answer is: you cannot drive directly to Machu Picchu. However, there are ways you can cover a large part of the journey driving on your own.
How to get there by car from Cusco?
The most direct and comfortable way is to go to Ollantaytambo and take the train to Aguas Calientes. This way you can explore the town of Ollantaytambo, home to one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Peru. Then comes the train journey, which is a spectacular rail experience.
Tips:
- Don't forget to book your train journey.
- Book your ticket to enter Machu Picchu.
- On the way back from Machu Picchu, stay the night in Ollantaytambo to return to Cusco at a relaxed pace. Keep in mind that you'll need to leave your car in a parking lot.
How to get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by car? It's about 80 km of winding mountain road with curves and switchbacks. It's a beautiful experience that can be done if you drive carefully. You need to take route 3S heading west, then highway 111 to 28B where you turn left and continue to Ollantaytambo. Here we leave you the route map.
One note! Another option that is often suggested is going to the Hydroelectric station and, from there, walking. However, we do not recommend it because part of the road is dirt with curves and switchbacks. Better to avoid it.
What to keep in mind before exploring Cusco by car
If you want to discover this beautiful destination on your own, you need to pay attention to the following:
- The winding roads with curves and switchbacks and, of course, steep slopes. As long as you take the usual precautions for mountain driving, you won't have any issues.
- Before setting out, check the condition of secondary roads. Roads are generally in good condition, but some are unpaved, such as those near Maras.
Always respect speed limits and avoid driving at night. Before hitting the road, spend at least one day in Cusco to acclimatize.
How many days should you rent a car in Cusco
To explore the nearby attractions, we recommend renting a car in Cusco for two or three days. By organizing a good itinerary, you'll be able to visit every spot while making the most of your time.
Keep in mind that to explore the must-sees in the city of Cusco, a car is not necessary. The best way to get around the ancient capital of the Inca empire is on foot or by taxi.
Renting a car in Cusco and exploring at your own pace
Exploring Cusco by car is one of the best ways to discover one of the most beautiful regions on the planet. At your own pace, without rushing and without overpaying for tours that often leave you wanting more. You will connect with the people of Peru, walk through practically empty archaeological sites and discover an ancient culture.
At Rentennials we make the entire car rental process in Cusco easy for you and, on top of that, you will connect with local hosts. Discover a new way to rent a car, simpler, more sustainable and generating positive effects on the local economy.
