Your Ultimate Guide to Remote Work in Cusco
🏔️Stunning mountain views from your workspace
📶Reliable coworking spaces with fast internet
🍲Delicious local cuisine like ceviche and lomo saltado
⭐⭐⭐⭐ ”Famous city, the historical capital and crown jewel of Peru.”
🚵♀️ adventure | 🌄 mountains | 🎨 culture | 🌳 nature | 🥾 hiking&walking | 😌 wellness | 🏙️ city break | 🍔 food & drink | 😎 great for singles | 😎😎 great for couples | 🚼 child-friendly | 🚶♀️safe for solo travellers
You wake to the soft light filtering through the woven curtains, the crisp Andean air filling your lungs. The scent of freshly brewed Peruvian coffee wafts from the kitchen, mingling with the earthy aroma of the clay walls. After a quick breakfast of tamales and fruit, you settle into your workspace, a wooden desk overlooking the terracotta rooftops of Cusco, the distant hum of morning traffic a gentle background noise.
The hours pass swiftly as you dive into your tasks, the vibrant colors of the city occasionally drawing your gaze away from the screen. By midday, the sun has warmed the cobblestone streets, and you take a break to stroll through the bustling San Pedro Market, the lively chatter of vendors and the vivid displays of textiles and produce invigorating your senses.
As the workday winds down, you close your laptop and head out to explore. The golden hour bathes the ancient Inca walls in a warm glow as you meander through historic alleys. You end the day with a dinner of ceviche and pisco sour, the flavors a perfect blend of tangy and sweet, the distant sounds of traditional Andean music serenading you into the evening.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable cost of living | ❌ Internet quality can be inconsistent |
| ✅ Rich in recreational and cultural activities | ❌ Variable climate conditions |
| ✅ Welcoming community, easy to socialize | ❌ Air quality may be poor, especially in urban areas |
| ✅ Diverse and accepting, safer for diverse groups | ❌ Business environment may be challenging for foreigners |
| ✅ Rich historical and cultural heritage | ❌ Healthcare quality varies greatly |
| ✅ Generally safe for tourists and residents | ❌ High smoking prevalence |
| ✅ Offers freedom of speech and a stable political climate | ❌ Seasonal weather variations can be extreme |
| ✅ Lower population density in certain areas | ❌ Road safety is a concern |
| ✅ | ❌ Language barriers may pose challenges |
Imagine settling into a cozy nook in the San Blas neighborhood, a charming area of Cusco known for its artisanal shops and cobblestone streets. You find a quaint café with a balcony overlooking the bustling plaza below. The aroma of freshly brewed Peruvian coffee fills the air as you open your laptop. It's a bit noisy, with street musicians playing Andean tunes and tourists chatting, but you find a quiet corner near the window. The energy of the place is infectious, and before you know it, you're deep into your work, inspired by the vibrant life around you. The occasional glance outside offers a view of the distant mountains, grounding you in the beauty of Cusco while you tackle your to-do list.
One afternoon, you decide to take your work to the Sacsayhuamán ruins, just a short hike from the city center. You find a spot on the grassy terraces, where ancient stones stand tall against the sky. With your laptop on your lap and a gentle breeze rustling the grass, you type away, feeling a profound connection to the history that surrounds you. It's quieter here, with only the sounds of nature and the occasional tourist passing by. The expansive view of Cusco below and the clear blue sky above provide a perfect backdrop for brainstorming new ideas. You take a moment to soak it all in, feeling grateful for the unique blend of work and wonder this city offers.
San Blas is a haven for artists and creatives, making it a perfect spot for remote work. The narrow streets are lined with colorful houses and small galleries. You can find several cafés with excellent Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere. One favorite is Laggart Café, where you can sit on the balcony and enjoy a panoramic view of the city while sipping on a cappuccino. The vibe here is laid-back, and you might even strike up a conversation with a fellow digital nomad or a local artist.
For a more serene environment, head to Parque Urpicha. This park is a bit off the beaten path and offers plenty of green space to spread out and work. Find a bench under one of the large trees or lay out a blanket on the grass. The park is usually filled with families and locals taking a break, giving it a community feel. It's an ideal spot to catch up on emails or do some creative writing while enjoying the fresh air and the sound of children playing in the background.
If you need a more traditional workspace, the Biblioteca Municipal del Cusco is a hidden gem. This public library offers a quiet, studious environment with plenty of tables and free Wi-Fi. The architecture itself is inspiring, with high ceilings and large windows that let in natural light. It's a great place to focus on more intensive tasks or to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours. Plus, being surrounded by books can spark new ideas and provide a sense of calm and focus.
Cusco's rooftops offer some of the best views in the city, and many cafés and restaurants have terraces where you can work. One such spot is the rooftop of Chicha por Gastón Acurio. While it's primarily a restaurant, during off-peak hours, you can find a quiet corner to work with a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding hills. The altitude and the open sky create a feeling of expansiveness, perfect for big-picture thinking and planning. Plus, when you need a break, you can enjoy some of the best Peruvian cuisine right at your table.
"Famous city, the historical capital and crown jewel of Peru. While the food does not compare to what is available in Lima, man the hiking opportunities are above and beyond. The boleto touristica is fantastic, for around $50 USD you get access to 11 archeological sites (all worth it), a cultural show (worth it), and 4 museums (I did not go)."
"Very bad place to visit right now. The country is in a time of political and civil unrest, with mass protests closing down airports, train stations, and roads since early December 2022 (it is now mid January 2023). Tourists have had to be evacuated. The train to Machu Picchu is indefinitely closed until further notice. 48 people have died in the conflicts so far. Peru, and Cusco in particular, is a beautiful place with amazing things to see - but right now is not the time to visit."
"Overall I do recommend staying at least a month in Cusco, especially if you are planning on doing one of the many hikes to Machu Picchu (allowed with tour guide only) and the boleto touristica (tour guide or alone). It's a safe city with spots of good and bad wifi, terrific opportunities for adventures, and a very practical people."
The nearest airport to Cusco is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. Upon arrival, the most convenient transportation options to get to the city center include pre-arranged shuttle services, licensed taxis, or app-based rides like Uber. For a smooth journey, agree on a fare with taxi drivers before departing or opt for an app-based service for a fare estimate and route map. Note: It's advisable to have small Peruvian soles on hand for taxis not accepting card payments.
In Cusco, both cash and cards are widely accepted, but smaller vendors, local markets, and taxis may only accept cash. It's beneficial to carry a mix of both but ensure you have enough cash for everyday small expenses. ATMs are readily available, but it's wise to withdraw cash in well-lit, secure locations. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any card service interruptions.
Exploring Cusco is a delightful experience on foot, given its compact, historic center, rich with Inca and colonial architecture. For longer distances, consider using local buses or taxis. Renting a bike can be a fun way to see the outskirts and the stunning landscapes surrounding Cusco. Renting a car is an option but may not be necessary unless planning extensive trips outside the city.
Cusco is generally safe for travelers, but like in any tourist destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep personal belongings secure, avoid isolated areas at night, and use licensed taxis or reputable ride services for nighttime travel. Drinking water from sealed bottles is recommended, and acclimatizing to the altitude with rest and hydration upon arrival is a must.
| ✅ Local emergency number | 105 (Police), 116 (Ambulance) |
| ✅ Best hospital | Hospital Antonio Lorena | Av. de la Cultura 710, Cusco | +51 84 582030 |
| ✅ U.S. embassy | Avenida Encalada Cdra. 17 s/n, Surco, Lima | +51 1 618-2000 |
☔ Rainy days -- peak tourist season
Cusco, can get quite crowded, especially during the peak tourist season from June to August. The city is a major hub for travelers heading to Machu Picchu, so expect busy streets and crowded attractions during these months.
The nightlife in Cusco is vibrant and diverse, with something for everyone. From cozy pubs and bars offering live Andean music to bustling nightclubs where DJs spin the latest hits, the city comes alive at night. Many establishments are located around the Plaza de Armas, making it easy to explore different venues.
In Cusco, you'll encounter a diverse mix of people, including local Peruvians, indigenous Quechua communities, and travelers from around the globe. The city's rich cultural tapestry is reflected in its people, who are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors.
Yes, Cusco offers a variety of healthy eating options. Many restaurants serve traditional Peruvian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. You can also find establishments specializing in international cuisine, vegan, and vegetarian options, making it easy to maintain a healthy diet while visiting.
Cusco is relatively pedestrian-friendly, especially in the historic city center where many attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, the city's steep streets and high altitude can make walking more challenging for some visitors. It's advisable to take it slow and acclimate to the altitude before attempting longer walks.
Power outages in Cusco are not frequent, but they can occur, particularly during the rainy season from November to March. When they do happen, they are usually short-lived, lasting a few hours at most. It's a good idea to have a flashlight handy, especially if you're staying in more rural areas outside the city center.
The natural environment around Cusco is stunning and varied, ranging from high mountain landscapes to lush valleys and dense forests. The region is known for its breathtaking beauty, with many natural attractions and outdoor activities available for nature lovers, such as hiking, bird watching, and visiting archaeological sites.
Yes, Cusco serves as a gateway to many other destinations in Peru, including the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon rainforest. The city has a well-connected airport, and there are numerous bus and train services making it relatively easy to explore the surrounding regions.
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