Question 1

What is the "Bus Ticket Overcharge in Aguas Calientes" scam in Machu Picchu?

Accepted Answer

The official Consettur bus service from Aguas Calientes to the citadel has a fixed round-trip price, but independent touts near the bus queue sell unofficial tickets at inflated rates, sometimes for buses that do not exist. The confusion is compounded by long queues during peak hours. Buy bus tickets only at the official Consettur ticket office on Avenida Hermanos Ayar in Aguas Calientes, which is clearly marked. The fare is fixed and posted at the counter.

Question 2

What is the "Cusco Airport Taxi Overcharge" scam in Machu Picchu?

Accepted Answer

Taxis outside Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco are unlicensed and charge arbitrary rates, with fares to the city center often quoted at $30-50 USD when the actual standard rate is roughly 25-35 soles. The fare confusion is exploited particularly with travelers who have just arrived and are already experiencing altitude effects. Use pre-arranged hotel transfers, or negotiate a fare in advance in soles — not dollars — before entering any taxi. Licensed taxis have a sticker on the windshield with the official rate chart.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Machu Picchu

Bus Ticket Overcharge in Aguas Calientes

Cusco Airport Taxi Overcharge

Experienced a scam here?