Is it safe to take cabs in Cusco? What you should know

Getting into a taxi may seem simple, but in Cusco, there are more than a few surprises you might encounter! Are all taxis safe? How can you avoid scams or unpleasant experiences? In this blog, I’ll tell you what no one tells you, with practical advice and real-life experiences so you can make safe, stress-free decisions during your trip.

General safety of taxis in Cusco

Is it safe to take a taxi in Cusco at night?

Taking a taxi in Cusco at night can be safe if you take certain precautions. It’s recommended to avoid taking taxis on the street late at night, especially if you’re alone or coming from a party area. Opting for a taxi app or ordering one from your hotel is a better option.

Some informal taxis operate at night without any oversight, which can increase the risk of robbery or excessive charges. Therefore, it’s always best to check the license plate and, if possible, share your location with someone you trust during a nighttime trip.

How do you know if a taxi in Cusco is legal?

A legal taxi in Cusco must have a clear license plate, a “TAXI” sign on the roof, and, in many cases, a visible registration or identification number. Some also carry a municipal sticker indicating they are authorized to provide the service.

However, not all legal taxis comply with these visible signs. The safest way to ensure it’s a licensed taxi is to use recognized apps or order one from a hotel or agency. Avoid getting into unmarked vehicles or those with tinted windows.

Are there fake or dangerous taxis in Cusco?

Yes, there are fake or informal taxis that operate without any regulation. Some may appear to be legal, but they are unlicensed and unregistered, which increases the risk of problems such as theft, scams, or taking longer routes to charge more.

While not all informal taxis are dangerous, it’s difficult to know who you’re getting into with. Therefore, the best way to avoid a bad time is to order taxis through an app or through reliable services recommended by accommodations or agencies.

Is it better to take a taxi on the street or order one through an app?

Ordering a taxi through an app is, in most cases, safer than hailing one on the street. Apps allow you to see the driver’s name, license plate, and share your route in real time, which gives you greater confidence, especially if you’re traveling or unfamiliar with the city.

On the other hand, taking taxis on the street can be risky, as many are unregistered, and there’s no way to know who’s driving you. While they may be faster in busy areas, they don’t always have clear fares, and you could pay more.

Types of taxis available

What types of taxis are there in Cusco?

In Cusco, you’ll find three main types of taxis: regular, informal, and app-based. Regular taxis are registered with the municipality and have visible identification. Informal taxis, although common, lack oversight and lack security guarantees.

App-based taxis, such as Uber or InDriver, offer a safer and more organized alternative. There are also tourist taxis, which are hired by agencies and often have drivers with more experience on specific routes for travelers.

What is the difference between a formal and informal taxi in Cusco?

The main difference lies in registration and control. A formal taxi is licensed by the municipality, which follows specific regulations. It also typically has visible identification and undergoes periodic inspections.

On the other hand, unregulated informal taxis may offer lower prices, but they also carry more risks, such as overcharging, unsafe routes, or even fraud. Choosing a formal or app-based taxi significantly reduces any inconvenience.

Are there shared taxis in Cusco?

Of course! Here in Cusco, they’re known as “colectivos.” They typically operate between 10 pm and 1 am. They depart from Concepción Street, near San Francisco Square, heading toward Tica Tica. There are other departure points, but most are for areas far from Cusco’s historic center.

Now, traveler, you’re probably wondering about getting from the airport to the city center or the bus station. You won’t find these services on buses; it’s preferable to take a taxi or use our services, either through an app or a third party, such as a hotel or travel agency.

How reliable are informal taxis?

The reliability of informal taxis varies widely. Some drivers operate honestly, but since they are unregulated, there is no guarantee that the service will be safe, fair, or professional.

The biggest problem is that you can’t tell if an informal driver has a criminal record or if the vehicle is in good condition. For tourists, it’s best to avoid these types of taxis and opt for options that offer more control and monitoring.

What taxis do locals use in Cusco?

Cusco residents, tourists, and visitors tend to use the same taxis, as there is no company dedicated exclusively to locals. In general, taxis in Cusco are shared by everyone without distinction, making transportation easier for anyone visiting the city.

In addition to taxis, Cusco also offers urban buses, which run on predetermined routes with many stops throughout the city. These buses are very common and you’ll see them throughout your trip. The fare is very affordable, costing only one sol, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of whether you’re a tourist or from another region.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that this service doesn’t always guarantee a seated or comfortable ride, as it’s often quite crowded. Still, it’s a practical and inexpensive option for getting around the city if you’re looking to save money and experience the local rhythm.

Taxi apps in Cusco

Which taxi apps work in Cusco?

Several taxi apps operate in Cusco, the most common being Uber and InDriver. These apps allow you to see the approximate cost of the ride before accepting it, and in some cases, negotiate the price (as with InDriver).

There are also local apps like EasyTaxi, although they are less commonly used. All of these options offer greater security, as you can view the driver’s details and the route and share your location with friends or family while you’re traveling.

Which is safer: Uber or InDriver in Cusco?

Uber is generally considered safer because the price is fixed from the start and drivers go through stricter screening. It also allows real-time tracking and has a more structured support system.

InDriver, although very popular for allowing you to negotiate prices, has less control over drivers. This can make the service less predictable. If you prioritize safety and convenience, Uber is the best option in Cusco.

Can I order a taxi via app from Cusco Airport?

Yes, you can order a taxi via app from Cusco Airport, but you must do so once you leave the arrivals area. Within the airport, there are official taxis that are generally more expensive, but are authorized and readily available.

To order rides using apps like Uber or InDriver, you often have to walk a few meters outside the terminal. There, you can coordinate a meeting point with the driver through the app. It’s a good way to save money, but it requires some patience.

Recommendations for taking a taxi as a tourist

Is it better to call a taxi from the hotel in Cusco?

This is a safe and convenient way to opt for taxi service. Why? Because you can rest assured that if you forget an item, you’ll at least be able to retrieve it. Plus, the price won’t arbitrarily increase or decrease depending on the driver. Finally, the ride will pick you up or meet you at a prearranged location, making the service much more private.

If you’re already in Cusco and want to get around, this would be a good option. But keep in mind that hotels usually inflate their prices. If you’re looking for something more affordable, you could take a taxi on your own and probably find lower prices, but keep in mind that the security I mentioned earlier will no longer be there, so you’ll have to be extra careful.

How much should you pay for a taxi in Cusco?

Travelers, if you’re hiring a taxi service, keep in mind that prices vary because they don’t have fixed rates. However, if the trip is short, the cost typically ranges between 10 and 20 soles, provided the group is for one to three people.

On the other hand, if you want to travel to places further from Cusco, the price can increase considerably. Also, if your group includes more than three people, you’ll need to hire an additional vehicle or simply opt for a larger vehicle with more seats. This way, you’ll avoid having to use two vehicles.

Do taxi drivers speak English in Cusco?

Here’s a very important fact! The vast majority of taxi drivers, as well as tour operators, don’t speak English. If you’re a traveler who doesn’t speak Spanish, you can use a translator to communicate with them.

To avoid this language problem, many travelers often request this service from their travel agencies or hotels, ensuring that their transfer is smoother and that the language barrier won’t be an issue.

Transportation from Cusco Airport

Is it safe to take a taxi from Cusco Airport?

Of course! Cusco is considered one of the most peaceful cities in the world, as you’ll find very friendly people throughout your trip. Taxi drivers entering the airport are usually asked for their ID to verify their identity.

Despite this, there are some recommendations you should keep in mind: make sure you don’t forget your belongings inside the vehicle, and before getting in, agree on a fixed price with the driver. If possible, make payment at the beginning of the trip to avoid misunderstandings.

How much does a taxi cost from the airport to downtown?

Travelers, when you arrive at the airport, it’s very important to get a quote from at least four taxis. Why? If you choose the first option you find, there’s a high chance you’ll be charged very high prices. Therefore, asking several taxis will give you a better estimate of how much you’ll have to pay.

Now, to answer your question: taxi service from the airport to downtown typically costs between 10 and 20 soles, for one to three passengers. If you’re traveling with more people, you’ll need to hire an additional taxi or simply arrange a larger vehicle with us to provide better transportation to your destination.

Can I order a taxi from the airport before arriving?

Of course! There are no restrictions, but you must make your reservation with an authorized company. Why? Because in the city of Cusco, informality also exists, and one wrong step could result in a potential scam.

To avoid these types of situations, you can use the apps we mentioned above or book with us. We’ll be happy to help you get to your destination and ensure you have the perfect ride, with all the comforts for your belongings.

Frequently Asked Questions