Cusco, Peru
Nightlife clusters around Plaza de Armas in a compact area, easy to pub crawl without long walks. Social backpacker scene with free salsa lessons and international crowd. Police presence makes it feel safe. Alcohol hits harder at altitude - pace yourself and Uber home late.
Most bars and clubs cluster within 2-3 blocks of Plaza de Armas, easy to hop between without walking far. Young international backpacker scene - travelers from everywhere mixing with some locals, bonding over pisco sours and bad dancing at altitude. Mama Africa and Ukukus pack crowds for salsa, reggaeton, electronic music. Irish pubs like Paddy's have more laid-back drinking. Many places do free salsa lessons early evening, good for meeting people. Always other solo women in these places, backpacker vibe means people are open and friendly. Feels safe with tourist concentration and visible police, but standard precautions apply - watch your drink, stick to lit streets between venues, Uber home after midnight rather than walking. Altitude makes alcohol hit way harder, pace yourself and drink water between drinks.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Easy to meet other travelers, lots of solo women out"
"Felt safe with the police presence and crowded streets"
"Altitude made drinks hit way harder - pace yourself"
"Free salsa lessons were great for meeting people"
"Took Uber home after midnight and felt totally fine"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Residential neighborhood minutes from the historic center where locals and expat families actually live. Good for budget travelers who want real Cusco life and don't need English or tourist infrastructure. Quiet and safe but you'll taxi to the center for dining and nightlife.
The safest, most tourist-heavy area in Cusco with police everywhere and English spoken in every restaurant. You'll pay double for everything but get maximum security and convenience.
Upscale dining and cafes in a colonial setting just off the main plaza. Professional service, good English, safe streets. More refined and pricier than other areas but less touristy than Plaza de Armas.
Help other women stay safe in Nightlife District (Plaza de Armas vicinity)
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.