Traveling to Cusco is an unforgettable experience, and having a credit card can greatly ease your journey. Authorized tour and transportation agencies accept various cards such as MasterCard, Diners Club, American Express, and even PayPal—no need to be affiliated with Visa Secure. However, it’s always recommended to carry cash in local currency (Peruvian soles) for emergencies or minor expenses.
If you plan to visit Machu Picchu, remember to purchase your tickets in advance. You can buy them through the Ministry of Culture’s website, but keep in mind that only Visa cards affiliated with Visa Secure are accepted. If your card is not registered, the payment will be declined.
Bringing your credit card allows you to pay at hotels, restaurants, and book tours. However, make sure the establishment is safe and reliable; check for currency exchange fees or ATM withdrawal charges. When in doubt, paying in cash is your safest option.
We recommend using ATMs from trusted banks such as BCP, BBVA, Interbank, or Scotiabank, located in tourist-friendly areas like Avenida El Sol.
ATMs in Cusco are widely available, especially in central and tourist areas. For added security, use ATMs from well-known banks located in well-lit, monitored locations. Some of the most trusted banks include BCP, BBVA, Interbank, and Scotiabank.
It is an online security system that verifies your identity before authorizing a payment. The Ministry of Culture, for example, only accepts Visa cards affiliated with this system for purchasing Machu Picchu tickets. If your card is not registered, the payment will be declined. Note that authorized tour and transport agencies may accept other cards such as MasterCard, Diners Club, American Express, and even PayPal, without requiring Visa Secure affiliation.
If you lose your credit card while in Cusco (or anywhere in the world), it’s crucial to act quickly to avoid fraud and protect your funds.
Call your bank’s customer service line or use their mobile app if installed. Most banks allow you to temporarily or permanently block the card from your phone.
Common emergency numbers:
(You can also find the number on your bank’s official website)
Notify your bank so they can register the incident. This helps protect you from unauthorized charges, and in many cases, you may be reimbursed if someone used your card fraudulently.
Check if your bank can send you a new card abroad or if you’ll need to pick it up in your home country. Some international banks offer express delivery. Don’t forget to check your bank app or account statements to spot any suspicious activity and report unauthorized charges immediately. That’s why it’s wise to travel with a backup card or extra emergency cash—it allows you to keep paying while the issue is resolved.
