Discover Cuzco by car and the must-see places to explore on your own
Exploring Cusco by car is attracting more and more travelers who want to visit the best places near the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Why? Because many of us are tired of large group tours. Others are looking for a more authentic way to connect with the people of Cusco. Or sometimes, we simply want to travel at our own pace, without anyone rushing us.
That’s why renting a car in Cusco for a few days is an excellent way to break from the usual. Visiting Pisac, reaching Moray, and discovering the Sacred Valley on your own is an experience worth having. Stopping at a roadside restaurant, talking to people, and learning more about what happens in these Andean lands is a more genuine way to travel.
At Rentennials, we want more people to feel encouraged to discover each destination in their own way—freely, connecting with local culture, and being responsible travelers. That’s why we’re sharing this guide to explore one of the most stunning places on Earth.
Why is exploring Cusco by car a great option?
Exploring Cusco by car is a different way to experience this destination up close. Getting behind the wheel and driving the Peruvian roads allows you to stop wherever you want and manage your own schedule. Plus, you’ll get to try that typical food that doesn’t appear on any social media post or meet people you’d never find on a traditional tour.
Also, there are places left out of most tour itineraries. For example, Tipón or Urubamba are often skipped. Imagine arriving at an archaeological site with very few people, having the landscape and history just for yourself. Totally worth it.
How high is Cusco above sea level?
The city of Cusco sits at 3,400 meters above sea level. It’s a height that requires some attention and care, but with proper acclimatization during the first few days, you’ll likely avoid most issues.
We recommend following the 5 tips to prevent altitude sickness in Peru to enjoy your trip without setbacks.
When is the best time to visit Cusco?
If you’re already planning to explore Cusco by car, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September. You’ll likely get pleasant temperatures and clear skies, which makes exploring archaeological sites much easier.
Between November and March, it’s the rainy season, so the roads might be muddy or experience landslides. The good news? You’ll find greener landscapes and fewer tourists.
Best months? April and October often offer the perfect balance of few crowds and minimal rain.
Whatever month you choose for your Cusco by car trip, be sure to book in advance—hotels, flights, and entrance tickets.
Places to visit near Cusco by car (under 2 hours away)
The surroundings of Cusco are full of hidden gems. Less crowded, more relaxed, and full of breathtaking spots.
Tip: Check out the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which lets you access many archaeological sites with a single pass.
Tipón, an open-air museum
Just 27 km southeast of Cusco lies the Parque Arqueológico Tipón, un impresionante complejo agrícola e hidráulico inca. En los tiempos de apogeo de este imperio era un santuario dedicado al agua. Lo interesante es que aún conserva acequias, canales y acueductos en perfecto estado. Esta precisión de la ingeniería hidráulica de los incas siempre fue reconocida por todos, incluso por los mismos cronistas coloniales.
an impressive Inca agricultural and hydraulic complex. In its peak days, it was a sanctuary dedicated to water. It still preserves its canals and aqueducts in perfect condition. The engineering precision of the Inca hydraulic system is legendary—even colonial-era chroniclers were amazed.
Tip: You can visit it in 1–2 hours, perfect for a short but meaningful stop, and it’s included in the Tourist Ticket.
How to get there by car: Take the 3S highway to Choquepata. Here’s the map.
Chinchero, where Inca meets colonial
About 30 km north of Cusco and at 3,780 meters above sea level, Chinchero is a living example of how Inca and Spanish colonial heritage coexist. This unique blend defines much of the Andean region of Peru.
What to see? Start at the Main Square with its colonial arches and 12 ceremonial Inca niches. Then head to the Church of Our Lady of Monserrat (16th century), built over Inca walls, with murals from the Cusco School of Art. And don’t miss the remains of Túpac Yupanqui’s palace.
Also visit the Chinchero market, famous for its traditional textile bartering and natural dyeing demonstrations.
Tip: It’s a half-day visit and part of the Tourist Ticket.
How to get there by car: Take 3S north, then turn right onto CU 1151. Map included.
Pisac, terrace farming at its best
Located 30 km from Cusco, Písac is home to spectacular agricultural terraces carved into the mountains. These were developed by Andean communities as a way to make the mountains productive.
There’s also an Inca astronomical observatory used for sun-based rituals. The village of Pisac is also charming, with its plaza, church, and renowned artisan market.
Tip: Part of the Tourist Ticket and ideal for a half-day visit.
How to get there by car: Take 28G highway north to Pisac. Map available.
Moray, the Inca laboratory
Possibly the most mysterious site around Cusco. About 60 km from the city, Moray features spiral-shaped terraces that formed an Inca agricultural lab. Each level simulated different microclimates to experiment with crops.
You’ll see a 45-meter-deep crater with concentric terraces, likely designed to represent the diverse climates of the empire.
Tip: Included in the Tourist Ticket. Combine it with a visit to Maras.
How to get there by car: Take 3S west to Anta, then follow 111 through Maras. Map available.
Urubamba, the other side of Cusco
Close to Moray, Urubamba, is a key city in the Sacred Valley. Driving to Urubamba from Cusco by car lets you discover the “B-side” of the Andean world—a mix of culture, nature, and local life.
Its market is vibrant and authentic. Don’t miss the Church and Plaza de Armas, colonial highlights. Also visit Quespihuanca ruins and pre-Inca chullpas, easily reached on foot. Try local specialties like cuy (guinea pig) or pachamanca.
Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, canopy, and ATVs.
Tip: Combine with Moray. Stay overnight for a more spiritual experience than in Cusco.
How to get there by car: Same route as to Moray—just continue to Urubamba. Here´s the map.
Can you reach Machu Picchu by car?
This is a common question among those exploring Cusco by car. The answer is: no, you can’t drive directly to Machu Picchu by car. Sin embargo, hay formas de que puedas recorrer gran parte del trayecto manejando por tu cuenta.
How to get there by car from Cusco?
How to go? Drive to Ollantaytambo and take the train to Aguas Calientes. You’ll explore one of Peru’s top archaeological sites and enjoy an incredible train journey.
Tips:
- Book your train ticket early
- Reserve your Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Stay overnight in Ollantaytambo and leave your car in a parking lot
Avoid the Hydroelectric route—it’s unpaved, winding, and not recommended.
What to know before exploring Cusco by car
- Mountain roads are curvy and steep—drive carefully
- Check road conditions (especially dirt roads near Maras)
- Respect speed limits and avoid driving at night
- Spend your first day in Cusco to acclimatize
How many days should I rent a car in Cusco?
To explore the surroundings, it’s ideal to rent a car in Cusco for two or three days. With a solid itinerary, you’ll make the most of your time.
To explore Cusco city, a car isn’t necessary—walking or taxis work best.
Para recorrer los lugares cercanos, te recomendamos alquilar un auto en Cusco dos o tres días. Organizando un buen itinerario conocerás cada lugar aprovechando al máximo tu tiempo.
Rent a car in Cusco and travel at your own pace
Exploring Cusco by car is one of the best ways to discover the Andes. At your pace, without the pressure of group tours. You’ll connect with locals, walk through nearly empty archaeological sites, and embrace a millennial culture.
At Rentennials, we make car rental in Cusco easy. Plus, you’ll connect with local hosts and support a more sustainable and impactful way to travel.
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