Cusco, Peru
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.
Just off Plaza de Armas with some of Cusco's better cafes and restaurants along cobblestone streets. Less hectic than the main square but still central, good lighting, steady foot traffic. Mix of upscale dining and casual cafes where you can camp out for hours with a laptop or book. More sophisticated than the backpacker zones - locals come for special occasions, expats do business lunches, service is professional, English common. Daytime brings shoppers and tourists, evenings bring dressed-up couples and small groups. Feels safe walking alone even after dark since streets stay lit and active until 10pm, though still better to taxi late. Pricier than outer neighborhoods but cheaper than Plaza de Armas restaurants.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Never felt awkward eating alone here"
"Central location but calmer than the main plaza"
"Great cafes for working remotely or reading"
"Felt safe walking around until about 9-10pm"
"More expensive but worth it for the quality and atmosphere"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
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.
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.
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.
Help other women stay safe in Santa Catalina
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.