Major Highways & Driving Tips in Cusco, Cusco, Peru
1. Pan-American Highway (Carretera Panamericana)
Transcontinental highway linking North and South America; passes through Cusco, providing a major route for travelers to reach Peru's southern regions.
- Vehicle Condition: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition as the highway has long stretches with limited services.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor altitude sickness symptoms, especially when approaching Cusco at high elevation.
- Travel Time: Allow ample travel time due to potential roadblocks and variable traffic conditions.
2. South American Highway (Vía Sentral Sur)
Connects Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, and Peru; passes through Cusco, offering an alternative route for travelers.
- Border Crossings: Be aware of border crossing formalities and documentation requirements.
- Road Conditions: Expect varying road conditions, including gravel, dirt, and asphalt sections.
- Fuel Stops: Plan fuel stops in advance, as gas stations may be infrequent along the route.
3. Cusco Ring Road (Circuito de Cusco)
Surrounds the city of Cusco, offering scenic drives and access to nearby attractions.
- Altitude Changes: Be prepared for sudden altitude changes as the road traverses various landscapes.
- Traffic Congestion: Avoid peak hours to minimize traffic congestion and enjoy the scenic route.
- Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts for potential road closures or hazardous conditions.
4. Santa Teresa - Hidroeléctrica Route
Off-road route connecting Santa Maria and Aguas Calientes (near Machu Picchu); scenic drive with beautiful landscapes.
- Vehicle Type: High-clearance vehicles are recommended due to the off-road nature of the route.
- Traffic Conditions: Expect heavy tourist traffic, especially near Machu Picchu.
- Permits and Fees: Some sections of the route may require permits or payment of fees.
5. Urubamba River Route (Ruta del Urubamba)
Scenic drive following the Urubamba River; offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley.
- Altitude Changes: Be prepared for sudden altitude changes as the road traverses various landscapes.
- Traffic Congestion: Avoid peak hours to minimize traffic congestion and enjoy the scenic route.
- Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts for potential road closures or hazardous conditions.
6. Titicaca Lake (Lago Titicaca)
Largest lake in South America, bordering Peru and Bolivia; offers stunning views and cultural experiences.
- Road Conditions: Expect good road conditions when traveling from Puno, Peru to Copacabana, Bolivia.
- Ferry Crossings: Prepare for ferry crossings at the lake's border between Peru and Bolivia.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor altitude sickness symptoms, especially when approaching high-altitude areas near the lake.
7. Desaguadero Border Crossing
Border crossing between Peru and Bolivia; connects Puno (Peru) and Copacabana (Bolivia).
- Documentation Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary documents for border crossing, including passport and vehicle papers.
- Ferry Crossings: Be prepared for ferry crossings at the lake's border between Peru and Bolivia.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor altitude sickness symptoms, especially when approaching high-altitude areas near the border.
8. Nazca Lines
Famous geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert; best viewed from the air.
- Air Travel Requirements: Book an air tour to view the Nazca Lines; be prepared for strict safety regulations.
- Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts for potential flight cancellations or delays.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor altitude sickness symptoms when traveling to the Nazca Desert at high elevation.
9. Ayacucho - Huamanga Highway
Connects Ayacucho and Huamanga; offers a scenic drive through the Peruvian Andes.
- Road Conditions: Expect variable road conditions, including gravel, dirt, and asphalt sections.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor altitude sickness symptoms when traveling at high elevation.
- Traffic Conditions: Expect heavy truck traffic on this highway connecting major cities.
10. Ayacucho City
Historic city in the Peruvian Andes; rich in Inca and colonial history.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions when visiting Ayacucho.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor altitude sickness symptoms when traveling at high elevation.
- Security Considerations: Stay informed about local security situations and follow safety guidelines.
11. Apurimac River Route
Scenic drive following the Apurimac River; offers stunning views of the Andes and historic sites.
- Road Conditions: Expect variable road conditions, including gravel, dirt, and asphalt sections.
- Altitude Changes: Be prepared for sudden altitude changes as the road traverses various landscapes.
- Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts for potential road closures or hazardous conditions.
12. Apurimac Canyon (Cañón del Apurímac)
Stunning canyon formed by the Apurimac River; offers hiking and adventure opportunities.
- Hiking Difficulty: Be prepared for challenging hikes with steep terrain and varied weather conditions.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor altitude sickness symptoms when traveling at high elevation.
- Equipment Requirements: Pack appropriate equipment for hiking, including water, snacks, and protective gear.
13. Vilcanota River Route (Ruta del Vilcanota)
Scenic drive following the Vilcanota River; offers stunning views of the Andes and nearby attractions.
- Altitude Changes: Be prepared for sudden altitude changes as the road traverses various landscapes.
- Traffic Congestion: Avoid peak hours to minimize traffic congestion and enjoy the scenic route.
- Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts for potential road closures or hazardous conditions.
14. Lake Titicaca Boat Tours
Boat tours offering stunning views of Lake Titicaca and cultural experiences.
- Sea Sickness Prevention: Bring seasickness medication if susceptible, especially during rough water conditions.
- Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts for potential changes in sailing conditions.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions when interacting with island communities.
15. La Raya Pass (Paso de La Raya)
High-altitude mountain pass between Peru and Bolivia; offers breathtaking views of the Andes.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor altitude sickness symptoms when traveling at high elevation.
- Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts for potential road closures or hazardous conditions.
- Vehicle Condition: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the challenging mountain road.