Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
Cusco, PE 🇵🇪 Large International Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
SPZO
IATA
CUZ
Elevation
10860 ft
Region
PE-CUS
Local Time
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GPS Code: SPZO
Local Code: Not available
Location: -13.5357° N, -71.938797° E
Continent: South America
Type: Large International Airport
What Travelers Say
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Online Reviews Summary
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (SPZO/CUZ) in Cusco generally receives mixed to negative reviews from recent travelers. While serving as a crucial gateway to Machu Picchu and other regional attractions, the airport is frequently described as too small and outdated for the volume of tourists it handles, leading to overall low satisfaction regarding its facilities and amenities. However, some aspects like security can be surprisingly efficient.
What Travelers Love
- Efficient Security and Check-in: Many travelers report quick processing times for security and check-in, making it possible to arrive closer to departure time than at larger airports.
- Proximity to City Center: The airport is conveniently located, typically a short 10-25 minute drive from Cusco's main square, allowing for quick transfers to accommodation.
- Private Transfer Options: Numerous highly-rated private transfer services offer comfortable, safe, and reliable transportation to hotels in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
- Scenic Views: The approach and departure offer stunning views of the surrounding Andes Mountains.
Common Complaints
- Small and Overcrowded Terminal: The airport is widely criticized for being too small for its high passenger traffic, leading to crowded waiting areas and insufficient seating.
- Limited Facilities and Amenities: There are few dining options, limited shopping, and often expensive or poor quality Wi-Fi that is sometimes only available for a short free period or is chargeable. Lounges are also available but sometimes deemed complicated to access or lacking in services.
- Restroom Conditions: Multiple older reviews mention issues with restrooms, including lack of toilet paper and even water cut-offs, although newer reviews don't highlight this as prominently.
- Unregulated Taxis and Pricing: While official taxis are available, many informal drivers operate outside, often requiring negotiation and potentially overcharging. Travelers are advised to arrange transfers in advance or negotiate firmly.
- Operational Limitations: Due to its high elevation and surrounding terrain, the airport has operational restrictions, including specific landing and takeoff directions and susceptibility to weather delays.
Overall, Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport serves its purpose as the primary air gateway to Cusco, but travelers should set expectations for a basic and often crowded experience. Its limitations are acknowledged, with a new, larger airport in Chinchero expected to replace it in the coming years, potentially by 2025.
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Airport Routes
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) offers 10 flight routes operated by 4 airlines. Major carriers include LATAM Peru, Sky Airline, JetSMART Peru and others. Popular destinations from Cusco include Jorge Chávez Int'l, Rodriguez Ballon Int'l, Padre Jose de Aldamiz Int'l, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez Int'l and El Dorado Int'l.
Route Network Map
Top Routes (by observations)
Newly Discovered
Popular Flight Routes
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Top Airlines
Operating at Alejandro Velasco Astete International AirportAirlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
LATAM Peru
LPE
/ LP
|
4 | 679 | 4 | Feb 16, 2026 |
|
Sky Airline
SKX
/ H8
|
3 | 186 | 3 | Feb 16, 2026 |
|
JetSMART Peru
JAP
/ JZ
|
1 | 135 | 1 | Feb 16, 2026 |
Avianca
AVA
/ AV
|
2 | 25 | 2 | Feb 13, 2026 |
For Pilots
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
10/28 |
11146 ft | 148 ft | ASP | Active Lighted |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| APP | CUSCO APP | 120.6 MHz |
| ATIS | ATIS | 127.0 MHz |
| GND | GND | 121.9 MHz |
| TWR | CUSCO TWR | 118.1 MHz |
Ground Transportation
Taxis
Official, licensed airport taxis are the safest option, with pre-paid, fixed rates available at counters inside the arrivals hall. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Cabify also operate, though you may need to meet your driver just outside the main airport area. For unofficial taxis hailed outside, always agree on the fare before starting your trip.
Rental Cars
Several international and local car rental agencies, including Hertz, Avis, and Budget, have desks within the arrivals terminal. While a rental car is ideal for exploring the Sacred Valley and surrounding regions, it is not recommended for navigating the narrow, congested, and one-way streets of Cusco's historic center.
Public Transportation
The most economical option is to use local public buses, known as 'combis'. These do not stop directly at the terminal; you must walk a short distance to the main road (Avenida Velasco Astete) to catch one. This option can be challenging for visitors with luggage due to crowding and unclear routes.