Cusco, Peru
The most authentic local market experience with very cheap food and real Cusco commerce, but pickpockets work the crowds. Only visit during busy daytime hours (8am-4pm), keep valuables minimal and secure, skip it completely after dark.
The massive indoor market sells everything - fresh juice, empanadas, textiles, live chickens. Locals doing daily shopping, tourists hunting cheap meals and authentic Cusco. Morning and afternoon the energy is intense: vendors shouting prices, cooking smells, crowds squeezing through narrow aisles packed with produce and handicrafts. Worth visiting for the cultural experience and cheap food, but timing matters. Crowded conditions mean pickpockets work here. Keep bags zipped and in front, leave expensive stuff at your accommodation, only carry cash you need. Go during busy hours (8am-4pm), skip it after dark when vendors close and the area gets sketchy. More petty crime around here than tourist zones, so stay aware. Don't skip it because of safety concerns - just go during the day, secure your valuables, and it's fine.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
PoorHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
HighScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
ModerateSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
Moderate"Amazing market but keep your valuables super secure"
"Went in the morning and felt fine, wouldn't go at night"
"Best cheap food in Cusco but watch for pickpockets"
"Fascinating cultural experience, just stay aware"
"The fresh juice is incredible and costs like 50 cents"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
The artistic neighborhood with cafes, artisan shops, and more local character than the plaza area. Safe during the day but steep dark streets need taxis at night. More affordable and less touristy while still being accessible.
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.
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.
Help other women stay safe in San Pedro Market Area
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.