Cusco Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Cusco

Renting a car in Cusco offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the rich cultural and historical attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key sites such as the vibrant Plaza de Armas, the impressive Sacsayhuaman archaeological site, and the stunning Cusco Cathedral. Each of these locations is conveniently situated within the city, allowing for seamless travel between them.

A car rental also facilitates visits to various neighbourhoods, such as the Cusco Historic Center, San Antonio, and Santa Ana, where you can experience local culture and history. Whether you are interested in city-themed, culture-themed, or outdoor experiences, having your own transportation allows you to tailor your itinerary as you wish. This is especially beneficial for families or groups, as it provides ample space for everyone and their belongings. With picturesque landscapes and numerous attractions within easy driving distance, renting a car in Cusco ensures that you make the most of your travel experience while enjoying the convenience of personal transport.

Most popular car rentals in Cusco

• Economy: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. The Economy option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for an efficient and budget-friendly way to explore Cusco. Its compact size allows for easier navigation through the city's streets while providing ample space for your luggage.
• Standard: The Standard car is designed for 5 travellers and offers the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly suitable for couples and families who require extra space for their luggage. With a comfortable interior, the Standard car provides a great balance of comfort and practicality, making it a popular choice for those wanting to enjoy their journey in and around Cusco.
• Compact: Perfect for up to 5 travellers, the Compact car can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is versatile and well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or families needing a reliable vehicle for their adventures. Its smaller size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre through the bustling streets of Cusco while ensuring you have enough room for your essentials.

Top rated car suppliers in Cusco

• Thrifty Car Rental: Known for its convenient single location in Cusco, Thrifty Car Rental is a popular choice among travellers. They offer a solid selection of vehicles, with the Economy and Standard models being the most booked. Enjoy the flexibility to explore the stunning attractions around Cusco at your own pace while managing your luggage with ease.
• Hertz: With a conveniently located rental outlet in Cusco, Hertz is another top supplier that caters to the needs of tourists. Their most popular choices include Standard and Economy vehicles, allowing you to select the perfect car for your journey. Hertz is committed to making your travel experience smooth, giving you the freedom to discover all that Cusco has to offer.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car is well-regarded for its presence in Cusco, with a dedicated rental location to serve your needs. Their fleet features popular options like Economy and Midsize SUVs, ideal for navigating both urban and rural landscapes. Renting from Dollar ensures you have the right vehicle to comfortably explore the beautiful region surrounding Cusco.

Where to stay in Cusco

• Cusco Historic Center: This vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking a city and culture-themed experience. With attractions like the stunning Plaza de Armas and the Cusco Cathedral nearby, you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. Don’t miss the Coricancha temple, which showcases the region's cultural heritage. The local public market offers delightful sweet treats, and wellness options such as spas and body treatments are easily accessible, making it an inviting place to stay.
• Santa Ana: Another culturally rich neighbourhood, Santa Ana is ideal for travellers interested in city themes and wellness experiences. Key attractions include the Plaza de Armas and the Cusco Cathedral, where you can appreciate the artistic and historical significance of the region. The Plaza El Regocijo provides a great outdoor space for relaxation and family activities. The area is also known for its educational venues and wellness offerings, ensuring a well-rounded stay.
• San Antonio: For those who enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic views, San Antonio is a fantastic choice. This neighbourhood is surrounded by picturesque mountains and rivers, providing ample opportunity for exploration. Key points of interest include the Coricancha temple and the San Blas Church, both rich in culture. The Plaza San Blas offers a lovely setting for city and culture enthusiasts, making it a unique place to base your stay while exploring the natural beauty of the area.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Cusco

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and have access to a broader selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might be unavailable. This can also impact renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Cusco

The best time to rent a car in and around Cusco is September, as it offers the lowest prices and demand is relatively calm. Additionally, October and November can provide good value with prices slightly low and steady demand. On the other hand, June tends to be the most expensive month with slightly high prices and average demand, making it a busier time for rentals. April and May also see slightly high prices as demand begins to ramp up.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
February	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
April	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
June	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High