Finding the Best Apartments in Cusco, PE: Your Ultimate Traveller’s Guide

Stepping off the plane, the crisp Andean air fills your lungs as terracotta roofs and winding cobblestone streets unfold before you. Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas, is alive with vibrant markets, colonial charm, and an unmistakable buzz that invites you to explore. Your quest to find the perfect apartment here transforms into a sensory journey - balancing comfort, location, and local flavour. You imagine waking to the soft light filtering through traditional wooden shutters, the aroma of freshly brewed Peruvian coffee on your balcony, and the sounds of distant street musicians. Each neighbourhood offers a unique character, from bohemian San Blas to the bustling historic centre. Knowing where and how to book is key; with every click, you get closer to a stay that feels like home in this Andean jewel.

Why Choose an Apartment in Cusco, PE?

Your choice to stay in an apartment unlocks a deeper connection with Cusco beyond the usual hotel experience. Apartments blend flexibility, local charm, and often unbeatable value, perfect for journeys that stretch beyond mere sightseeing. When I last stayed in Cusco, the apartment felt less like a hotel room and more like a little sanctuary where I could unwind after exploring Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

Unlike traditional hotels, apartments often feature kitchens, letting you sample Peru’s colourful markets and cook fresh Andean ingredients. Many come with extras like washing facilities, saving precious luggage space and money on laundromats. An apartment’s location is also a huge draw; whether perched on a San Blas hillside affording views of the city’s orange rooftops or nestled in a quiet lane near Plaza de Armas, you can tailor your stay to your vibe.

Cusco’s rich history and mix of cultures create diverse neighbourhood atmospheres. Apartments allow you to tap into those neighbourhoods organically - imagine wandering out to a neighbourhood café or artisan workshop just downstairs, or simply soaking up the early morning sounds without leaving your door.

For solo travellers, couples, or families, apartments often provide more space and privacy for less money than boutique hotels or guesthouses. You’ll also enjoy longer-term rental options at discounted rates, perfect if you’re working remotely or settling in for a ‘digital nomad’ experience surrounded by Inca stone walls.

Your Ride, Your Way

Simple & Trusted Car Rentals by PeruRent

https://www.perurentalcar.com/

Step-by-Step Booking Guide

1. Research neighbourhoods: Decide your preferred area - Historic Centre for convenience or San Blas for atmosphere.
2. Set your budget: Determine nightly and overall budget, considering extra fees like cleaning or deposits.
3. Use trusted platforms: Search apartments on Airbnb, Booking.com or local agencies for best deals.
4. Check reviews and ratings: Focus on recent traveller feedback for reliable insights into cleanliness and host communication.
5. Review cancellation policies: Opt for flexible bookings to accommodate changes without penalties.
6. Confirm amenities: Ensure essentials like Wi-Fi, heating, and parking meet your needs.
7. Contact hosts: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the property or neighbourhood.
8. Book early: Popular apartments fill up quickly, especially in peak months (June–August).

Major Apartment Providers Compared

is among the top apartment providers in Cusco, PE, offering reliable and comfortable stays for both short and long visits.

When comparing providers, consider your travel style. Airbnb shines for uniquely local stays, perfect for immersing yourself in Cusco culture. Booking.com offers extensive options with easy cancellation, helpful for fluctuating travel plans. Local agencies often provide the best insider knowledge and custom packages, a real boon for longer stays or more hands-on travellers. Serviced apartments cater to professionals or travellers who prefer hotel-like services but in an apartment setting.

Money-Saving Hacks

• Book apartments well in advance, especially for June–August, to avoid premium last-minute rates.
• Consider longer stays - many hosts offer weekly or monthly discounts in Cusco's holiday rentals.
• Choose apartments with kitchens to save on dining by cooking fresh local ingredients from markets.
• Opt for apartments in safe but less central neighbourhoods like Wanchaq, which tend to be cheaper.
• Use booking apps’ loyalty programmes or cashback offers to lower total accommodation expenses.

Living Like a Local & Neighbourhood Vibes / Alternatives to Apartments

Living like a local in Cusco means blending into vibrant neighbourhoods where cobbled streets, plazas, and artisan stalls colour your daily routine. San Blas is beloved for its bohemian flair, art galleries, and quaint cafés. The Historic Centre pulses with energy and close proximity to landmarks, ideal if you want to be in the heart of it all.

For those considering alternatives to traditional apartments, boutique hotels can offer personalised service with charm, often housed in beautifully restored colonial buildings. Aparthotels combine the space and amenities of apartments with hotel-like services, great for business travellers or families.

Co-living spaces have started emerging in Cusco, providing a community feel and shared facilities, appealing to younger travellers or digital nomads seeking sociability alongside privacy.

Each option caters to a different taste, but apartments in Cusco, PE remain the sweet spot for autonomy, culture, and affordability.

Check-in & Check-out Tips

Planning your arrival and departure carefully can save hassle. Many apartments allow flexible check-in times with prior arrangement - ask your host about key collection well in advance. Since Cusco sits at 3,400 metres altitude, arriving during daylight hours is recommended; you’ll have time to acclimatise and navigate neighbourhood streets comfortably.

Confirm early if the apartment has a lift, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage. Some older buildings in San Blas feature steep stairs. Also, check if there are secure parking options, as taxis are common but parking can be limited.

For check-out, most hosts recommend removing garbage and leaving keys in a drop-box or returning them personally. You’ll want to agree on cleaning fees upfront to avoid surprises. Communicating clearly with your host can ensure smooth transitions and better local tips for your stay.

Sample 3-Day City Stay Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore Plaza de Armas and Cusco Cathedral; enjoy lunch at a local market; afternoon visit to Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun).
• Day 2: Full-day Sacred Valley tour including Pisac ruins and market; dinner back in San Blas.
• Day 3: Morning at Sacsayhuamán fortress; afternoon pottery or weaving workshop; farewell dinner in local picantería.

Hidden Corners & Local Gems

Beyond the obvious sights, Cusco hides gems that enrich your stay.

• San Cristóbal Hill: Panoramic views with fewer tourists, perfect for sunrise.
• Qoripata Coffee Shop: A local haunt known for artisanal coffee and live folk music.
• Hidden patios of Calle Triunfo: Quiet courtyards with boutique galleries and gardens.

Eight Mistakes Travellers Make

1. Ignoring altitude acclimatisation - plan arrival steps accordingly.
2. Booking generic apartments without checking neighbourhood safety or convenience.
3. Skipping reviews - missing crucial host or property insights.
4. Overlooking additional fees like cleaning or deposits.
5. Not confirming key exchange and check-in times in advance.
6. Underestimating internet speed - ask if Wi-Fi suits work or streaming needs.
7. Assuming all lifts exist - many buildings are historic with stairs only.
8. Not exploring alternative lodging options like aparthotels or co-living.

Your Ride, Your Way

Simple & Trusted Car Rentals by PeruRent

https://www.perurentalcar.com/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical price range for apartments in Cusco, PE?

Most apartments cost between $30 and $80 per night, depending on location and season (April 2024). Negotiating for longer stays can yield discounts.

Are serviced apartments available in Cusco?

Yes, serviced apartments are popular with business travellers, offering hotel amenities like daily cleaning and concierge alongside apartment comforts.

Which neighbourhood is best for first-time visitors?

The Historic Centre is ideal for first-timers due to its proximity to main attractions, transport links, and dining options.

Is it safe to walk around at night in Cusco?

While central areas like Plaza de Armas and San Blas are generally safe, it’s wise to avoid poorly lit or isolated streets and use taxis after dark.

Ready to Experience Cusco Like a Local?

Finding the best apartments in Cusco, PE can transform your trip from a sightseeing sprint into a meaningful cultural immersion. Whether you crave the homey feel of a comfy apartment, the convenience of a serviced unit, or the charm of a boutique hotel, Cusco’s accommodation options cater to every preference. Share your own experiences or questions below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more expert travel guides and tips!