Cusco, Peru

• Cusco sits at 11,200 feet, which means altitude sickness hits most people in the first 24-48 hours. You'll be out of breath climbing stairs and need to take it slow initially. Drink coca tea, hydrate constantly, and don't plan anything strenuous the first couple days.
• The city centers on Plaza de Armas, where colonial buildings and churches mix with Inca stonework. Restaurants, cafes, and tour agencies fill the streets radiating out from the square. Thousands of women travel here alone each year - it's one of South America's most established solo travel destinations. Tourist areas, hotels, and nicer restaurants have English speakers, but basic Spanish helps outside those zones.
• The Tourist Police (460-1060) speak some English and are actually helpful. Crime is mainly pickpocketing in crowded spots like San Pedro Market and packed buses. The historic center feels safe walking during the day and early evening, but take taxis after 10pm.
• San Blas and the Plaza area stay busy late with cafes full of backpackers and locals. Sitting alone in cafes for hours is normal here - the coffee culture means nobody cares if you're by yourself.

Spanish is the main language. Tourist areas around Plaza de Armas, hotels, tour agencies, and nicer restaurants have English speakers. Tourist Police (460-1060) speak some English. Emergency services (105) may have limited English - keep a translation app handy. Basic Spanish phrases help a lot at markets, local restaurants, and for transportation.

• Cover shoulders and knees at churches and religious sites. In the city center, normal Western casual clothes are fine, but skip the very short shorts or sports bras as daily wear - you'll get stared at.
• The altitude hits everyone differently. First 1-2 days, go slow - no strenuous stuff, drink 3-4 liters of water daily, try coca tea. Skip alcohol the first couple days since it hits harder at altitude.
• Catcalling happens, sometimes persistently. Mostly just verbal - ignoring it works. Local women don't make eye contact with unfamiliar men since it can be misread as interest.
• Tourist areas have English speakers, but learn basics - 'hola,' 'gracias,' 'por favor,' 'cuánto cuesta,' 'no, gracias.' Locals appreciate attempts even with bad pronunciation.
• Lunch is the main meal (12-2pm), lots of places have cheap set menus (menú del día). Dinner's usually after 7pm. Tip 10% at sit-down restaurants.

• Uber and InDrive work well in Cusco and are the safest options, especially at night. You can pay through the app so no cash needed, and it adds security for solo travelers. Plenty of drivers available throughout the tourist areas.
• Licensed taxis are everywhere but don't use meters - you negotiate the price before getting in. Short rides in the historic center cost 3-4 soles during the day, 4-5 soles after 9pm. Only take licensed taxis with registration stickers visible in the window. Never flag down unmarked cars.
• Local buses (combis) cost about 0.80 soles and run on fixed routes throughout the city, but they get very crowded during rush hour and pickpocketing is common. Not recommended with luggage or after dark.
• The historic center is best explored on foot during the day, but the steep cobblestone streets combined with the 11,200 foot altitude will wear you out faster than expected. Take breaks and don't rush.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Cusco with local guides and curated experiences.