Cusco Velazco Astete Airport (CUZ) Flights & Information

Cusco is a smaller city nestled in the Peruvian Andes but its airport plays a crucial role as the gateway to some of South America’s most iconic cultural and historical sites. Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is the main hub for travelers eager to explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and the vibrant city of Cusco itself.

Though it might seem small at first glance, this airport handles thousands of travelers each day, especially during the peak tourist season. Despite its compact size, the airport efficiently manages a steady flow of adventurers, particularly during the high season when the allure of Incan history draws visitors from around the globe.

If you’re planning a journey to this fascinating region, here’s what you need to know to navigate CUZ smoothly and kickstart your adventure in the heart of the Andes.

Altitude

The thin air is always the first thing I notice when I step off the plane at Cusco's Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport. At 11,000 feet above sea level, CUZ is one of the highest airports in the world.

High altitude means there’s less oxygen in the air, which can make it harder for your body to breathe and function normally, often leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness or fatigue. It's a good idea to take it slow your first day in Cusco to give your body time to adjust to the altitude.

At the airport, you'll find buckets of coca leaves outside baggage claim, inviting you to take a few for free – a gesture rooted in centuries-old Andean tradition. Coca leaves are widely used in Peru to help combat altitude sickness and you'll find them in all sorts of products here from tea to candy and chewing gum.

This ancient practice is embraced throughout the region, where hotels serve coca tea to ease the effects of high altitude, and locals use the leaves in everything from cocktails to bread.

Overview

Cusco airport is a key spot for travelers exploring Peru, offering domestic flights to cities like Lima, Arequipa and Trujillo, as well as more off-the-beaten-path destinations like Juliaca (Puno), Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest.

For international travel, the airport connects to La Paz, Bolivia, and Bogota, Colombia. Several airlines fly in and out of CUZ. Major domestic carriers include LATAM, JetSmart and Sky Airline, while both LATAM and Avianca operate international routes.

Getting to and from the airport

Getting to and from CUZ is easy, with a few transportation options to suit different preferences. The airport is just about 5 miles from the Cusco historic center, which translates to a 20-minute ride under normal traffic conditions.

For most travelers, including myself, taxis are the go-to choice. You’ll find plenty of taxi drivers eagerly waiting outside the terminal, though they can be a bit persistent. Taxis here do not have meters, so it’s important to agree on the fare before getting in.

If you're on a tighter budget, the local minibuses known as "combis" offer an extremely affordable alternative. The combis don’t typically run on a fixed schedule but pass by frequently. I have never taken this option because they are notoriously overcrowded, making them less than ideal if you have luggage. They also have a strong reputation for being a hotspot for pickpockets.

The most expensive but most comfortable option is to book a private shuttle. Several shuttle companies service the airport, including Cusco Airport Shuttle and Cusco Shuttle. They can be booked in advanced through their websites or often through your hotel.

Checking in at the airport

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport is a small, single-terminal airport that is usually running at full capacity given the popularity of the region. The check-in process can be a bit crowded thanks to the airport's small size and limited facilities. The airport only has 5 gates.

Check-in lines can get long during peak travel times, so it’s best to arrive early, particularly with the influx of tourists heading to popular destinations like Machu Picchu. Most airlines recommend arriving at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours for international flights to allow ample time for check-in and security.

Once you've checked in, you'll proceed through security, which tends to be efficient but can get congested when multiple flights are departing around the same time. The security process is similar to what you’d expect at most airports – you'll need to remove your shoes, belts and any metal objects, as well as send your carry-on items through the x-ray machine.

Keep in mind that the airport does not offer extensive amenities, so it’s a good idea to grab any last-minute snacks before passing through security.

Amenities at CUZ

Cusco's airport does not offer free Wi-Fi throughout its premises. For those needing to connect, Wi-Fi is available on the second floor within select restaurants, but you will need to purchase a drink or snack to access the internet and stay within the restaurant’s confines to maintain connectivity.

Additionally, a small internet cafe is tucked away on the public side of the second floor, providing not just internet access but also printing, scanning and phone call services. It is supposed to be open from 7 am to 5 pm, but heads-up: It might close early depending on how the staff feels that day.

If you need to exchange currency at the airport, there's a booth on the first floor. Personally, I almost never use it because the rates aren't the best. If you're not in a rush, consider waiting until you reach Cusco city center, where you're likely to find better options for exchanging your money.

Next to the currency exchange, you'll find 4 banks: ScotiaBank, BBVA Intercontinental, BCP and GlobalNet. It’s smart to check if your home bank has any arrangements with these to avoid unnecessary fees.

Cusco airport restaurants

Before you hit security, the dining options are pretty solid. The standout spot is Cafeteria Aeropuerto, where you can grab anything from a quick sandwich or salad to local favorites like lomo saltado and aji de gallina. The prices? Pretty much what you'd expect at an airport. I’ve grabbed a bite there a few times, and it’s honestly not bad for airport food.

Once you're inside security, you’ll find several snack bars dotted across the first and second floors. If you're just in the mood for a snack – think empanadas, a soda or just a plain coffee – you're all set. Prices do jump a bit once you're past security, but they’re still reasonable, especially compared to what you might pay at other airports around the world.

Airport lounges

I am not much of a lounge traveler, but the seating at the Cusco airport is limited, making the waiting areas feel cramped and uncomfortable. To escape the madness I venture to the club lounge on the first floor. For a reasonable price you can relax in comfort, enjoy some snacks, sip on drinks and stay updated with Wi-Fi and flight monitors.

For Diners Club International members, access is free. Just remember, the lounge is only open from 6 am to 4 pm, so time your visit right if you want to take advantage of this cozy nook.

Shopping at the airport

Once you’re through check-in and headed to the boarding area, you'll stumble across a few higher-end stores. If you’ve got your eye on Alpaca products, KUNA is the place to be. Personally, I like to stop by Ilaria if I’m looking for Peruvian silver jewelry – it’s a great last chance to grab something unique before heading home.

Up on the second floor, there are smaller shops filled with all the usual souvenir suspects – Pisco, chocolates, Machu Picchu keychains… you name it. I wouldn’t suggest buying souvenirs here if you’re just arriving in Cusco, but if you're leaving and need some last-minute gifts for folks back home, this spot can definitely save you!