How do you rent a car at Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport?
Renting a car at Cusco Airport (CUZ) allows you to pick up your vehicle at the terminal and explore the Sacred Valley and Inca heritage sites completely at your own pace. Booking online with Rent.it lets you compare rates from trusted international and local brands, ensuring you get the best price for your Andean journey.
Essential Information
- Airport Name: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
- Desk Location: Arrivals area of the main terminal
- Required Documents: Valid domestic driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP), passport, and credit card
- Recommended Vehicle: An SUV or mid-size 4x4 for steep mountain inclines and rural terrain
- Fuel Policy: Full-to-Full policy ensures you only pay for the fuel you actually consume
Why book a car hire at Cusco Airport with Rent.it?
Booking your Cusco car hire with Rent.it is the best way to secure competitive prices with complete transparency. A rental car gives you the freedom to reach archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley early in the morning, avoiding the crowds of commercial tour buses and public transport delays.
- Instant comparison of top-rated local and global car rental brands.
- Flexible booking adjustments and easy online cancellation policies.
- Dedicated customer support for a reliable experience across Peru.
What are the driving requirements at Cusco Airport?
To hire a car in Cusco, drivers must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid national driver's license. You must present an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside a valid passport and a physical credit card under the main driver's name to process the security deposit.
- Minimum age of 21 (young driver fees may apply depending on the supplier).
- A traditional credit card with a sufficient limit for the security block.
- Valid passport containing your official Peruvian entry customs stamp.
Where should you drive in the Sacred Valley with your Cusco rental car?
With a rental car from Cusco, you can easily drive to the historic towns of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. You can explore breathtaking locations like Pisac, Maras, and Ollantaytambo, utilizing your vehicle to reach the train station before heading up to Machu Picchu.
- Pisac: Renowned for its colorful market and mountaintop Inca citadel.
- Maras and Moray: Spectacular salt pans and ancient circular agricultural terraces.
- Ollantaytambo: A living Inca town and the main railway hub for trains to Aguas Calientes.
What are the best driving tips for Cusco and high-altitude areas?
Driving in Cusco requires care due to the extreme altitude of over 3,400 meters, which can affect vehicle acceleration and cause altitude sickness. Drivers should plan fuel stops carefully, avoid mountain routes after dark, and watch out for unmapped speed bumps on rural roads.
- Stay hydrated and take time to adjust to the high elevation before long drives.
- Download reliable offline GPS maps as cellular connection can drop in valleys.
- Drive defensively and check weather conditions during the rainy season.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit in Cusco?
Yes, Peruvian traffic authorities and car rental suppliers strictly require an International Driving Permit alongside your valid domestic driving license.
Can I drive my rental car directly to Machu Picchu?
No, there are no public roads for private vehicles leading to Machu Picchu. You must drive to Ollantaytambo, leave your car in a secure lot, and take the train.
Is insurance coverage included in the rental price?
Yes, standard rates on Rent.it include Third-Party Liability, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), and Theft Protection with a deductible excess amount.