Taxi & Transport Scams in Machu Picchu, Peru
Overcharging, meter tampering, fake taxis, and transport cons targeting tourists. Below are the taxi & transport scams reported in Machu Picchu — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Valparaíso, Mendoza, and Medellín.
Last updated: April 7, 2026
2
Taxi & Transport Scams
8
Total in Machu Picchu
How it works
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.
How it works
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.
See all scams in Machu Picchu
8 total warnings across all categories
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