cost tourism peru

The Cost of Travel in Peru: A 2023 Budget Breakdown

Peru is such a wonderful country to travel in. 

Cusco embodies European classiness while Lima is bustling and vibrant. Machu Picchu is full of enchantment while Huacachina mysterious and rare. Colca Canyon is stunningly vast while Arequipa is surrounded by volcanoes. But there is one characteristic each Peruvian destination has in common: heart. The Peruvian heart beats loudly and proudly, and I dare you not to fall in love with it, too.

In Peru, there’s something for everyone, no matter the type of adventure you might be craving. 

The most recognizable Peruvian destination is Machu Picchu and let me just start by saying, yes, it’s worth it. But there is so much to see in this bountiful country, so it would be worth your time and money to explore more than just one corner. I found getting around the country easy and cheap to do. 

Peru is on the modest side in the way of costs. Which is exciting because that means you can fit more in for less. 

I mainly stayed in guesthouses, and utilized the public transportation system, including flights, buses, trains, and taxis. Lima was the most expensive stop, with its pricier restaurants, hotels and nightlife, but outside of the capital I found costs to be more than reasonable. 

January, May and June are the busiest months of the year to visit Cusco. Aim to travel outside of these times so your money goes further. But if you find yourself in Cusco during the busy time, go anyway! 

La Ciudad Imperial, or the Imperial City, is a shining star in Peru. Situated in the Inca Region, and adjacent to the Urubamba Valley, this city is the main base for those looking for a Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley adventures. Yet, Cusco is an adventure all its own. The main square is dazzling with standout architecture framing dozens of restaurants, bars and coffee shops overlooking visitors snapping photos and milling about. It’s easy to waste time exploring the cobblestoned streets of Cusco (I sure did!) but eventually you will want to make your way up to the famous mountain. 

The last stop on my trip was Huacachina. It’s an oasis in the middle of nowhere resembling a slither of life where there appears to be none. It’s stunning because it’s peculiar. A small town consisting mainly of hotels, restaurant and bars surrounding a shallow oasis in the middle of sand dunes – It’s a sight to see. 

If you’re not pressed for time, the Gringo Trail hits all the right places across the country. Expect the journey to take two or more weeks (if you aim to hit all the spots). The famed path starts in Lima and follows the curve, stopping in Paracas, Huacachina, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno and Cusco. 

Today, I’m going to be sharing how much you can expect to spend on a trip to Peru.

Peru’s Gringo Trail: Where to Go

If you’re starting to plan your trip to Peru and aren’t quite sure where to go, you may find it useful to know that there’s a ready-made route, set up for you to follow.

Allow me to introduce you to the Gringo Trail. It is, essentially, the main itinerary that most visitors follow around the country, taking you to the very best that the country has to offer. Most visitors will fly into Lima, then follow the route in a counter-clockwise direction over to Cusco. Here’s a map:

If you have two weeks to spend in the country, I recommend breaking up your time as so:

Day One: Lima Day Two: Lima Day Three: Paracas Day Four: Paracas Day Five: Nazca Day Six: Huacachina Day Seven: Huacachina Day Eight: Arequipa Day Nine: Arequipa Day 10: Puno Day 11: Puno Day 12: Cusco Day 13: Cusco / Machu Picchu day trip Day 14: Cusco

The Cost of Accommodation in Peru

You can visit Peru on any budget, from a $10 a night hotel in Cusco that’s rated 9 on Booking to a spectacular $270 a night lodge on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Overall, though, I think you’re going to be pleasantly surprised by the prices of lodging in Peru: it’s inexpensive and high-quality.

In this blog post, I’m going to be focusing on value . Because whether you’re travelling as a solo backpacker on a shoestring, as part of a couple on a mid-range budget, or as a family looking for a little luxury, value is the one thing you’re going to be looking for. That doesn’t mean cheap — it means offering up more than similarly-priced options.

There’s some seriously great value accommodation up for grabs in Peru, so to start with, I’m going to cover the cheapest way to travel the country.

If you’re on the tightest of tight budgets, there are several options that’ll land you with free accommodation  while you’re in the country. Courchsurfing allows you to connect with locals by sleeping on spare sofas in their homes. It doesn’t cost a penny to do so and is a fantastic way to gain an insight into Peruvian daily life away from the tourists. There are over 100,000 hosts in Peru, so there’s sure to be someone who’s right for you.

Housesitting is a more upmarket way to avoid paying for accommodation, as it’s aimed at the mid-range and luxury travellers. You’ll be looking after homes and pets while their owners are on holiday, and the houses can be extremely luxurious. This option works best if you don’t have fixed travel dates, as you’ll be agreeing to dates that the owners set.

Finally, when it comes to free accommodation, you could take a look at WorldPackers in Peru , where you’ll be able to volunteer for locals in exchange for food and board. There are some seriously cool options available on the site, from helping out at a local surf school to lending a hand at building an eco-sanctuary in the rainforest. Readers of this site get a $10 discount for WorldPackers with the promo code neverendingfootsteps .

If you’re not looking to travel for free and just want a clean and comfortable room to sleep in, there are plenty of great options, too.

One of the most affordable ways to explore Peru is by staying in a hostel. I stayed in several over my first visit to the country and was impressed by the quality of the hostels, as well as how many there are to choose from. Let’s look at the best-reviewed hostels in the country.

• The best hostel in Lima is easily Pariwana Hostel , where dorms are priced at just $11 per person , and private doubles come in at $39 per night . As an added bonus, it’s right in the centre of Miraflores: my favourite neighbourhood in Lima!
• In Paracas , you can’t get better than Atenas Backpackers , where double rooms are priced at just $19 a night . In a town where most hostels are rated poorly, this well-reviewed spot is a no-brainer.
• You’ll likely be heading to Nazca while you’re in Peru, and if so, I recommend Nazca Travel One Hostel , which has double rooms for $22 a night . Staff are friendly and can help you with booking your scenic flights, the breakfast is generous, and the rooms comfortable.
• Huacachina is home to Banana’s Adventure Hostel , where dorms are priced at $17 a night and doubles at $28 a night . No wonder it’s the best-rated budget accommodation in town, as it’s home to the most epic swimming pool. It’s well-worth staying here while you’re getting your oasis on.
• What about Arequipa ? Way Kap Hostel is the only place I’d consider staying. Not only is it inexpensive at $6 a night for a dorm, but the beds are comfortable, the rooms are slick and modern, and the staff so friendly.
• And finally, Cusco , where you have to stay at Nao Victoria Hostel (dorms $11 a night ; private doubles $40 a night ). It’s peaceful and laidback, right in the heart of town, and the staff can help you out with anything you need — including leaving your backpacks with them while you hike Machu Picchu.

Overall, then, you can see that you can expect to spend around $10 a night  for dorms in Peru, and around $20-40 a night  for a private double room.

Okay, but what if you’re not a budget traveller and just want to stay in a lovely, well-reviewed hotel or guesthouse that’s good value for money and has all the things you need from a place to lay your head? I’ve got you! When I visited Peru, I opted to spend half of my trip staying in backpacker hostels and the other half in well-reviewed guesthouses. For around $60 a night , you’ll be able to stay in an excellently-reviewed hotel, in a central location with friendly staff.

Where to Stay While Traveling in Peru

When I’m travelling, I’m always conscious to book the absolute best accommodation out there — well, as long as it doesn’t amount to hundreds of dollars a night. I can easily spend several hours researching accommodation for every stop along my way, ensuring I’ve chosen the place in the best location with the friendliest staff, and the greatest value for money.

My biggest tip? When you head to Boo k ing to find a hotel, ignore the results that are sorted under “Our Top Picks” — that’s a list of all of the hotels that pay Booking the highest commission, some of which have some pretty poor write-ups. Instead, opt to sort the properties by “Top Reviewed”. That way, you’ll be able to see which options genuinely have the best reviews.

But all that to say, when I was planning my trip to Peru, I put in the hard work so you don’t have to. Here’s where I recommend staying:

Lima: Ana Frank Hospedaje ($70 a night for a double room) — Kick-off your Peru trip with the best-rated hotel in town! Ana Frank Hospedaje is the most beautiful property with the loveliest owners ever. Ana and Frank will take you into their home, welcome you, and have you feeling like you’re family. The hotel is right in the heart of Miraflores — my favourite neighbourhood — yet still quiet and peaceful, so you can sleep. The rooms themselves are clean, large, and comfortable, and the shower pressure some of the best you’ll encounter in Peru.

Paracas: Casa Paracas (108 a night for a double room) — This is a lovely spot, a block back from the beach, close to the main square, with easy access to the boat tour companies and best restaurants in town. The owner, Francisco, is a gem, whipping up excellent breakfasts in the morning, arranging tours for you throughout the day, and even picking you up from the bus station so you don’t have to walk. With a beautiful view of the ocean from the property, this makes for a wonderful stay in Paracas.

Nazca: Casa Hacienda Nasca Oasis ($65 a night for a queen room) — Nazca isn’t the nicest of areas in Peru, but if you’re keen to see the Nazca Lines, it’s inevitable that you’ll end up spending one night in town. Still, Casa Hacienda is the best option out there for travellers, with a peaceful garden, large swimming pool, and helpful staff. Just ask at reception and they’ll be able to help you arrange safe onward travel, book a tour to see the Nazca Lines for you, and help you explore the archaeological sites in Nazca that are often overlooked.

Huacachina: The Upcycled Hostel ($31 a night for a double room) — It’s all about the vibes in this hostel, as the place is full of the coolest, colourful decorations — all upcycled, of course. It’s in a great location, too, within walking distance to the dunes, but not directly in the party zone, so it’s still peaceful. You also get access to a good-sized swimming pool and some of the best food in the country. Join in with cocktail-making classes, salsa lessons, or simply chill in the beautiful garden. In a place that seems to attract uniformly poor accommodation options, the Upcycled Hostel is easily the best option in town, no matter your budget.

Arequipa: Las Torres de Ugarte ($50 a night for a double room) — This is such an adorable hotel, right in the heart of everything you’ll want to see in Arequipa. The breakfast is fantastic, the rooms are large and spotless, and the owners so sweet. As an added bonus, you’ll have access to the rooftop terrace, which overlooks the city and offers some seriously special views.

Puno: Uros Waliski Lodge ($85 a night for a double room) — I suspect just looking at the photos on the Booking listing will be all it takes it have you committing to stay here. And if the photos don’t? Well, I’d be very surprised. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience; the opportunity to stay on a peaceful island away from all of the Puno day-trippers, experiencing a slice of authentic local life. As an added bonus, all of the excursions on the lake are free! They’re included in your room price. Honestly, this is one of the most wonderful places on Lake Titicaca.

Cusco: MOAF Cusco Boutique Hotel ($60 a night for a double room) — There’s a reason why this hotel is the top-rated in all of Cusco. It’s due to the location, which is close to all of the markets, restaurants, and tourist attractions. It’s due to the friendly staff who go out of their way to ensure you have the best trip ever. It’s due to the ability to easily book all of your tours through them, whether you want to hike to Machu Picchu or see Rainbow Mountain. And it’s due to the delicious, filling breakfast. I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else in Cusco.

The Cost of Transportation in Peru

Travelling across Peru is super-easy, and there are tons of options to help you do so. While I was in the country, I used planes, buses, trains, colectivos, and taxis, and loved getting to experience such a diverse range of transportation.

If you’re short on time, it’s worth taking a look at the offerings from domestic airlines, like LATAM , as sometimes flights within Peru cost the same as the buses. As an example, I paid just $38 for a flight from Cusco to Lima, at the end of my trip, skipping the 22 hour[!] bus trip and paying just an extra $14 to do so.

If you’re not in a rush and really want to see as much of Peru as possible, you’ll be impressed with the country’s extensive bus network. I recommend Tepsa and Cruz Del Sur as the best bus companies for visitors to Peru, (Tepsa is a bit cheaper), as both are safe and reliable options. I found both of these companies to be cheaper than the alternatives, like Oltursa, and they were so much easier to navigate during the booking process. 

So much can you expect to pay when bussing your way around the country? In 2023, you’ll be looking at the following:

• Bus from Lima to Cusco with Tepsa: $16
• Bus from Lima to Arequipa with Tepsa: $15
• Bus from Lima to Cusco with Cruz Del Sur: $24
• Bus from Cusco to Ica with Cruz Del Sur: $23
• Bus from Lima to Ica with Cruz Del Sur: $5

Not bad, right?

When you’re not travelling from city to city, you’ll most likely utilise the country’s taxis, and yes — Uber is available in Peru.

When hailing a taxi on the street, make sure you agree on a price point before getting in the cab, or make sure the meter is on. And prepare to have an argument over that, as you do in basically every country around the world.

Colectivos (shared taxis) are another option for saving money, and one we utilized often. These colectivos can be a car, bus or minibus, and you can hail them pretty much anywhere in the country. They charge a set fare and are often waiting at popular destinations until they have a certain number of passengers.  

The Tren Eléctrico , or the Electric Train, in Lima is a terrific choice for travel within the city’s limits, with multiple lines linking various sites and districts. You can expect to pay $1.80 for a card that you can use between stations (costs between stations vary) and then reload when needed.

When it’s time to venture outside of Lima, you have plenty of options. 

If you’re not pressed for time, the Gringo Trail hits all the best spots across the country, and most travellers opt to follow its route. This famed path starts in Lima and offers up stops in Paracas, Nazca, Huacachina, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco. Expect the journey to take two or more weeks (if you aim to hit all the spots) but if you opt for a quicker expedition, you can see the main destinations within a week. Have three weeks? You’ll be able to go slower and ensure you see it all without rushing.

So, what’s the easiest way to traverse the Gringo Trail?

Peru Hop is an awesome company (and concept!) for all of my backpackers out there! They offer the flexibility, convenience, and safety of an upscale tour company but with a decent price tag. A three-day trip across the Gringo Trail starts at $159 and includes a six-stop hop-on hop-off pass, pick up and drop off at hostels, an on-board Peruvian guide, free access to various sites along the route, and more. Seriously, you get so much for your money with Peru Hop, especially as they squeeze in many attractions most tour companies brush past.

Getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco was an adventure! This was the only time I used a train during my Peruvian travels, and it happened to be one of my best ever experiences. The ride is like a dream, surrounded by endless greenery, raging waters, and sharp cliff-sides. 

PeruRail runs from Cusco/Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu for $38. Keep in mind there are bundled options, some guided and some self-guided, that get you to Machu Picchu for a flat price. If you’re not a hiker, taking the train to Machu Piccho is an experience that can’t be missed.

The average cost of transportation is: $17 per day

The Cost of Food in Peru

Peruvians are food geniuses, with a heritage influenced by Spanish, Asian, Italian, and African regions, all blended together in order to create a unique culinary identity. They have perfected the art of contrast within a plate, often mixing hot with cold and sweet with savory. 

Eating out in Peru is an inexpensive way to sample the local delights, so there’s little reason to cook meals yourself. A typical breakfast includes bread and butter with ham or jam, as well as seasonal soups and coffee or tea, and averages just $3. 

Lunch is kind of a big deal here, so much so that its time dictates business hours. Plan your midday meal to take place between 1 and 3 p.m., and prepare to work your way through a starter, main course, drink, dessert, and a siesta . Did I mention I love this country? Lunch will set you back $6, and dinners are similar in cost, depending on your splurge level, but you can expect to between $5 and $10. 

Ceviche, or Peruvian sushi, is the most iconic dish in the country and typically includes sea bass, lime, and various spices. Think of ceviche as Peru’s food mascot, but it’s not the only dish on the menu. Lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), papa a la huancaina (creamy, cheesy and spicy potatoes) and pollo a la brasa (rotisserie chicken) are all staples you should sample while you’re in the country.

Having said that, I practically ate ceviche for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with zero complaints. 

In the bigger cities like Lima, Arequipa and Cusco you’ll find an increase in prices for these dishes. For example, ceviche prices throughout the country range from $3 to $15 while lomo saltado goes from $2 to $11. Pollo a la brasa ranges from $2 to $5. 

Street grills are common in Peru, but you’ll find they’re more abundant in smaller towns and villages. You can get chorizo, marinated chicken breast, or a hunk of cecina for a mere $1.50, so if you’re backpacking around the country, this is an affordable way to stay full.

Pisco sours are a way of life when it comes to alcoholic beverages in Peru. Delicious, but tart, the drink flows in all regions in many different forms. If you’re not into sour drinks, order a pisco on the rocks, it’s most similar to tequila in taste. Pisco cocktails go for about $6. 

Vino in Peru is not revered as top notch, however Vista Alegre offers a respectable selection for the – practically free – price of $1 per bottle. while Tacama’s wines are around $7 a bottle. If you fancy yourself a wine buff, check out an international blend from Argentina or Chile instead. Beer is cheap in Peru. A large bottle will put you back $1.30. Look out for popular Peruvian brews, Pilsen Calloa and Cristal.  

The average cost of food in Peru is: $18 per day

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Peru

Whether you love the beach, the mountains, or the rainforest, Peru has something for you.

Machu Picchu is, of course , the country’s national treasure, and world-famous for a reason. No matter how you choose to get there (hike, bus, train) you’ll need to devote at least a day to the excursion. I left at 4 am from Cusco and arrived back around 9 pm that same night, paying $38 for the train. It’s a long day but worth every step of the trek.

Sandboarding in Huacachina was a tumbling adventure. The rolling dunes are photogenic, inviting, and surprisingly soft — just in case you take an unexpected dive. For $15, our tour took us out for a half-day trip in the desert, which included transportation in a buggy and hours of shredding the sand.

What if you don’t have much cash to splash?

Hiking is the perfect way to see more of the Peruvian landscape, and you don’t have to spend a penny to do so. Colca Canyon is often overshadowed by Machu Picchu, but it’s ample in trails and thick with stunning terrain and steep canyons. If you’re up for the challenge, try the descent into Colca Canyon from the Cruz del Cóndor lookout — trust me, it’s unbelievable .

Get Your Guide is one of my favourite travel websites — it helps you filter through all of local tour companies to find the cheapest and highest-rated experiences, without having to spend hours trawling through TripAdvisor and forums. I book all of my tours through them these days, and can’t recommend them enough.

The average cost of activities in Peru comes to $36 per day .

The Cost of Travel Insurance in Peru

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Peru. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Peru?

With all of that being said, it’s time to tally up all of my travel expenses in Peru, in order to give you an idea of how much you can expect to spend while travelling in this wonderful country:

Accommodation:  $37 per day Transportation:  $17 per day Food:  $18 per day Activities:  $36 per day Total amount spent per day: $108  

Planning a Trip to South America?

I have a bunch of budget breakdowns for South American countries for you to peruse:

• The Cost of Travel in Bolivia
• The Cost of Travel in Chile

And don’t forget to check out The Cost of Travel, well, Everywhere : my master list of detailed expense reports, covering the cost of visiting over 50 countries around the world!

Are you planning a trip to Peru? Have any questions? Let me know in the comments below!

Related Articles on Peru 🇵🇪 23 Fantastic Things to Do in Lima, Peru (2023)

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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23 Fantastic Things to Do in Lima, Peru

Didn’t find a better, in depth article on Peru than this… it’s simply brilliant and extremely informative and well written ! You’ve really done a great, great job for all fellow travellers, please accept my sincere compliments and regards🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

I’m from India and my daughter and I plan a 15 days travel to Peru in August of 22. Although your article has almost everything for planning a trip, we have some destinations in mind which you don’t mention hence a request to you for assisting in forming our plan. Our points of interest;

1. Land at Lima. 2. Nazca. 3. Hucachina. 4. Arequipa. 5. Cusco. 6. Rainbow Mountain. 7. Colca Canyon. 8. Manu Nature Reserve. 9. Humantay Lake. 10. Amazon Forest. 11. Lima and return.

Most of the above aren’t in any particular order for the simple reason that we don’t know what the right order is and what are the number of days we’ll need at each place. Also, what transportation we should use for optimising on time but not missing the natural scenery the travel will offer. I know it’s a lot of information I ask for but I‘ll be very grateful if you could provide the necessary assistance.

Hi Lauren, Only just discovered your blog after deciding on Peru to celebrate my 50th birthday with my husband and children who will be 15, 17 and 19 (my daughter is also planning to study Physics and loves travelling:-)). What do you think of renting the car in Peru? I don’t think we will enjoy taking the buses as prefer to have more freedom as a family and somewhere to store our luggage between the places to stay too (will be looking at airbnb as well as all hotels you recommended). Is car a good option in Peru? One more question if I may, would you recommend Amazon Forest? It sounds like an incredible adventure but I am not sure what to expect really. Grateful for your views on this. Many thanks, Ewa (ps we live on London and it will be our first off the beaten track adventure together! :-)).

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Home » The Cost of Travel in Peru in 2024

The Cost of Travel in Peru in 2024

• 17 September, 2022
• by Oliver Eberlein
• Reading time: 10 minutes

Home to some of South America’s most incredible viewpoints, deep jungle wilderness, cuisine, and Inca sites, Peru might just be the perfect destination for your next adventure.

With no end to exciting places to visit, Peru is a vibrant country that can be seen on almost any budget.

Whether you’re watching your money or looking to splash out, let’s walk through the costs of traveling in Peru and explore valuable tips on transportation, activities, accommodation, and money exchange.

Overview of Travel Costs for Peru

Not only is Peru a fantastic destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, but it is also one of the most affordable ones in South America.

Perhaps your biggest expense – which you will need to account for well in advance – is airline tickets. Flight prices to Peru are very diverse and based on your departure location and the time of year you’re traveling (high vs low season). To find affordable flights to Peru, it might be wise to use platforms that allow you to compare airline tickets, such as Skyscanner .

The next step to consider is your itinerary and the places you want to explore – this will be a major factor when calculating your overall travel costs. For example: the prices for a fully customizable 8-day trip to Peru – including transportation for the tours, an English-speaking guide, meals, accommodation in an Amazon lodge, and tickets to Machu Picchu – start at little over $1,000.

When planning your trip and looking at prices, it might be good to note that Peru’s official currency is the sol (S/) and its international currency code is PEN. Naturally, the exchange rate can fluctuate depending upon a number of factors. Currently, however, 1 USD equals 3.82 Peruvian soles.

Note: Just like visiting any other destination, researching your itinerary and booking ahead of time will go a long way. Many accommodations across Peru sell out quickly and some attractions (such as the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu) have a limited number of visitors/hikers allowed per day, so be sure to book several months in advance.

The Cost of Accommodation in Peru

Accommodations in Peru range from cheap hostel beds to 5-star Amazon lodges and boutique hotels near the beach in Lima.

If you want to keep the costs of your trip low, Peru offers plenty of hostels in most major cities and towns across the country. If you’re looking to save money while also making new friends, hostels are your best option.

Depending on the location, you can expect to spend around $4 to $8 a night for a dorm bed and $10 to $ 30 for a private room at a hostel. Hostels in more upscale districts, such as Pariwana Hostel in Lima’s famed Miraflores neighborhood, can set you back $13 per dorm bed per night.

Another option to consider if you’re on a budget, or traveling as a couple/family, is Airbnb . The costs will vary depending on the location. In Lima, for instance, you can find an apartment for as little as $45 a night.

For mid-range accommodation, you’ll be looking at $40 to $70 per night. Some good options to consider include Hotel Ayenda El Patio in Lima and Desert Night Ecocamp in Huacachina Oasis.

If you want a luxury travel experience in Peru , be prepared for prices starting at $120 per night. You can opt for a hotel overseeing the Pacific Ocean, such as Second Home in Lima, or go for an unforgettable stay in a sky lodge in Urubamba .

Cusco and Iquitos

Cusco and Iquitos in the Amazon jungle are two of the most popular destinations among travelers due to their proximity to incredible sights and attractions such as Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the Amazon Jungle.

In Cusco, hostel prices tend to be on the lower side (compared to those in Lima), with accommodations such as The Chusay Rooftop offering dorm beds for as little as $6 per night. Hotel rooms will cost you about $40 on average. Some good options include the Golden Inca Hotel and Ayenda Estancia San Pedro .

Iquitos is a very convenient location for anyone looking to explore the Amazon Rainforest in Peru. You can book accommodation in the city itself or, if you’re up for an adventure in the wilderness, spend a few nights at one of the 10 Amazon lodges near Iquitos .

Amazon lodge prices range between $200 and $650 and offer a spectacular experience of sleeping in the jungle, enjoying the tranquility, and witnessing incredible flora and fauna.

The Cost of Transportation in Peru

Peru has a good public transportation system and using public transport is one of the cheapest ways to explore the country.

Buses connect most major cities and tourist destinations. The cost of your bus ticket will generally depend on the bus company, the route, and the extras that they offer (e.g. air-conditioning or onboard meals). Here’s a quick overview:

• From Lima to Cusco: $16 with Tepsa; $24 with Cruz Del Sur
• From Lima to Arequipa: $15 with Tepsa
• From Lima to Ica: $5 with Cruz Del Sur
• From Cusco to Ica: $23 with Cruz Del Sur

Hopping on a train is another great option, specifically if you’re trying to reach Machu Picchu.

There are two rail companies operating trains from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (the town closest to Machu Picchu) – PeruRail and Inca Rail. A one-way budget train ticket from Cusco to the ancient site of Machu Picchu will set you back between $65 and $75. Both companies further offer several different travel classes with added extras such as air conditioning and complimentary snacks.

While it might be more expensive compared to other transportation methods, the train journey offers a comfortable ride with fantastic views that are hard to come by with other means of transportation.

For larger distances, such as from Lima to Cusco or Iquitos, you can also book a domestic flight. Prices will generally vary on the season, demand, and destination. A plane ticket from Lima to Cusco averages at about 486 soles ($125).

For small distances, you can get a taxi. The average fare between districts ranges between $3 and $4. Haggling before settling on a fare is acceptable and even expected.

If you’re confident about driving in another country, you could look into renting a car. Week-long car hire out of Lima, for example, starts at $150 for an economy option.

Review our article about the transportation options in Peru for more information.

The Cost of Eating Out in Peru

Peru has a dizzying variety of unique flavors and dishes, and they are pretty affordable, too. If you’re on a tight budget, you can get by on $2 a meal from street vendors. If you’re willing to splurge and try more exquisite Peruvian food at a high-end restaurant, you’ll be looking at paying around $60 – $70 per meal.

One dish that you have to try in Peru is Ceviche – a citrus-infused dish made from fresh fish that is delicious and easy to find, regardless of where you’re staying. Along with that, be sure to try out some typical Peruvian drinks such as Pisco (Peru’s most famous drink), Inca Kola, Chilcano, and Emoliente.

Here are some average food and eating out costs you’ll likely come up against while traveling in Peru:

• Chips: $3 (S/ 9)
• Ice Cream: $3 (S/ 9)
• Lunch: $10 – $20 (S/ 38 – S/ 80)
• Ceviche: $12 (S/ 45)
• Meal in a mid-range restaurant (per person): $15 – $19 (S/ 60 – S/ 80)
• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant (per person): $2.55 – $3.10 (S/ 10 – S/ 12)

Tip: Smaller cities, towns, and villages typically offer cheaper eating-out options. Food markets are another excellent option if you’re looking to try scrumptious Peruvian food without breaking the bank.

Prices of Activities in Peru

The cost of your activities in Peru is going to vary based on which part of the country you’re going to be visiting. Many of the top things to do in Peru , such as exploring Cusco and other sightseeing activities, are very affordable. Others, such as flying over the Nazca Lines and trying out adventure sports, are often more expensive.

In the Cusco region, much of your soles will likely be spent on hiking and visiting beautiful ancient Inca ruins. Some common costs when visiting Machu Picchu you can expect are:

• Entrance fee: $45 for Machu Picchu only or $60 for Machu Picchu + an on-site mountain hike
• Food: $6 to $22 (in the nearby city of Aguas Calientes)
• Hiring a local guide: $40 to $85

Trekking the Inca Trail is another bucket list activity for many travelers. While hikers cannot trek the trail on their own, there are Inca Trail trekking tours that are sure to help you make the most of your adventure based on your preferred traveling style. You can choose from a private 2-day Inca Trail starting from $565 or a 4-day Inca Trail hike starting from $795.

Another adventure-filled activity you should consider is exploring the stunning Amazon Rainforest. One of the best ways to do this is by joining a 3-day Iquitos tour (prices starting at $425). The tour includes 2 nights in a jungle lodge, meals, and exciting activities such as a boat tour and a visit to Monkey Island.

Peru Daily Budget Estimations

Most accommodations, eateries, and main attractions in Peru are all reasonably priced, and you can explore the country and have a great time whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a more luxurious adventure.

To put things in perspective, here’s a quick overview of budget-based daily expenses (on average):

• Budget travel: $30 to $35 per day
• Mid-range travel: $40 to $100 per day
• Luxury travel: $100+ per day

It is possible to make a great Peru tour even with a limited budget. You can cut down on expenses by eating at cheaper restaurants or market food stalls and cooking for yourself during the trip. If you want to cut down on accommodation costs, it’s worth remembering that many cheaper accommodations are located outside the center and you might end up spending more on transportation.

Money Exchange in Peru

You can exchange your currency for Peruvian soles both at home or once you arrive in Peru.

The Peruvian Sol comes in banknotes of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200. Coins have values of 1,2, and 5 soles, as well as 10, 20, and 50 centimos (cents). When exchanging money in Peru , you have several options – at the airport, bank, or local exchange house. You can also use an ATM or opt for a street money changer (cambista).

While it is possible to pay with US dollars and even Euros at certain places (e.g. restaurants, hotels, and bigger stores), it is not recommended as the exchange rate will be less than favorable. When exploring Peru, be sure to have enough soles on you to cover your travel needs.

A word of caution: In Peru, banknotes (both USD and soles) with tears and wrinkles are often rejected. If you receive a bill in a bad condition, politely ask the cashier to exchange it for another one.

Tip: Be sure to check the exchange rate online before heading off to a reputable money exchange location. In addition, to avoid counterfeit money, make sure you can feel the raised details on the bill and hold the note up to a light source to identify a clean and crisp watermark.

The Travel Insurance Cost

An important part of your travel budget should be dedicated to getting travel insurance before leaving home. Regular insurance generally does not cover you overseas and the costs for a medical emergency abroad can quickly add up.

Good travel insurance will cover things such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, and unexpected hospitalization. In addition, if you fall seriously ill or get injured in a remote location, the insurance will cover the costs to fly you home.

Ready for Your Trip to Peru?

Peru is not only full of breathtaking scenery, ancient Inca sites, and world-class cuisine, but it’s relatively inexpensive, too. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned Peru adventurer, visiting this South American gem is bound to be an unforgettable experience, as long as you plan well and in advance.

Feeling inspired to take the next step? Here’s how to prepare for your trip to Peru and ensure an adventure worth telling.

Related Tour

6-day best of peru.

Our bestseller Peru express tour!

• Ancient ruins, stunning Andean landscapes and Inca history that will make you speechless
• Machu Picchu, Cusco, Huacachina & more

“Nothing was overpromised but we often felt like they overdelivered, such as with a little welcome back we received, free upgrades and constant assistance during our travels no matter what question we have had. All the guides and drivers spoke good English, were timely and knowledgable in their domain. What we really loved was that they were all very positive and happy people, we really felt a great vibe throughout our entire trip.”

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Sarah Anderson 28 May, 2023 at 3:26 pm

Great read, thanks for putting together this information. My friend and I were planning to visit this July. Is it safe to travel to Peru now?

Oliver from Exploor 29 May, 2023 at 10:35 am

Hey Sarah! Absolutely, it is very safe to travel to Peru now. All the sites are open and we have daily departures for all our tours. For more info feel free to review our article about the current situation in Peru.

Cheers, Oliver

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Peru Travel Cost and Trip Planning Guide

Peru is a fantastic country to travel to. Here we can visit charming cities like Cusco and Arequipa, hike through the Andean mountains and also explore the unforgettable Amazon Jungle.

Planning a trip to Peru can sometimes be confusing. This is especially true when working out the different costs you’ll have there , as well as when it comes to sticking to your own budget.

What's in this guide?

Trip to Peru Cost and Planning Guide

In this guide we’ll explore the different costs that you’ll have when traveling to Peru, and how to set the perfect budget (based on you and your own trip requirements).

We’ll also look at whether Peru is worth visiting, as well as some important things to know before arriving based on our own experience here.

Is Peru Worth Visiting?

Peru really does have it all , and tends to leave a pretty big impression on travelers. After all, I (George) loved it so much that I now live here. Here we can find a dynamic culture, which varies depending if you are in the Sierra, Jungle or along the Pacific Coast.

This includes the rich variety of Peruvian cuisine , which is ranked as one of the most upcoming on the globe. Dishes to try include Papa a la Huancaina, Ceviche, Papa Rellena, Chaufa and Lomo Saltado. You can also try Cuy too if you’re feeling brave!

We’ll also find a tonne of unique and memorable destinations here too. This includes wandering colonial streets in Lima and Cusco, hiking volcanoes in Arequipa and exploring glacial lakes in Huaraz.

Those who love more adventure are also in luck, as you can go Sandboarding in Huacachina and head on the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu through the Sacred Valley.

Is Peru Expensive to Travel to?

Generally speaking Peru is a cheap country to travel around, however it does of course depend on your budget and trip style. For example, backpackers can easily spend $20-25 a day , staying in a dorm bed at a hostel and eating local meals.

Those who prefer more comfort or luxury will want to budget for between $30-40 a day . Here you’ll be staying in a nice private room of a hostel (or at a budget hotel), and also have more choice when it comes to where you eat.

The Average Cost of a Trip to Peru

Now we’ll break-down all of the different costs you will have on your trip in Peru. This includes costs of transport, accommodation, food and activities.

Travel Costs in Peru

First we have your inbound (and outbound) flights to Lima. Thankfully it’s a massive airport which has connections all over the globe, so it’s not an overly expensive city to fly to .

Those who are in the Western Hemisphere will find great deals if coming from Cancún , or certain cities in the USA. If in Europe or nearby, your best bet will be heading via Madrid or another large capital city.

Domestic flights are also surprisingly cheap, and can be a great way of covering the larger distances when traveling through Peru.

These include getting to Máncora from Lima (flying to Piura), and also when heading to Cusco. Some of the best airlines include LATAM and Sky, the latter which is overall cheaper.

Next we have buses. This is the most popular way of getting around Peru, and is also the overall cheapest . It’s important to remember that distances can be quite large here, so you’ll need to take a few night-buses here and there.

This is also the same when using public transport within the cities which is cheap, although Uber is another semi-cheap option (and also safer).

• One-Way International Flight from Cancun to Lima = $300-400
• One-Way Domestic Flight from Lima to Cusco including Baggage = $40-50 (2 Hours)
• Bus from Ica to Arequipa = $30 (13 Hours)
• An Uber Ride from Lima Airport to Miraflores = $12-15 (don’t take taxis here as they will overcharge you! Use the free airport WiFi to instead hail an Uber)

Accommodation Costs

Overall we’ll find a large variety of accommodation options in Peru that cater to all budgets and tastes. Hostels tend to be the most popular way of hitting the hay for cheap, where a dorm bed can go for between $7-10 per night .

Hotels can really vary in price, especially when it comes to the type you choose. A popular western brand (for example Marriott) can be over $100 a night, especially in the more built-up neighborhoods such as Miraflores.

We can also find local hotels that offer private rooms and basic facilities for between $20-40 a night .

It’s important to mention that accommodation prices (of both hostels and hotels) can vary where you are too in Peru. Miraflores will be much more expensive than Pisac, a town which is located in the Andean mountains close to Cusco .

The cost of accommodation in Cusco, Peru:

• Dorm Bed in Miraflores = $8-10
• Dorm Bed in Cusco = $6-9
• Private Room in Local Hotel = $20-40
• Private Room in an Exclusive Hotel = $50-100

See this list of top-rated hostels in Peru if you are on a budget and are open to meeting other travelers along your travels.

Food and Drink Costs

Now we move onto food and drink, which will take up another sizable portion of your budget (especially if you’re keen on trying new dishes or have a large stomach!).

Peruvian local restaurants are a great option for those on a budget, where you can order a local menu ejecutivo (which includes a starter, main and a drink) for as little as $2!

We’ll also find plenty of fancier restaurants too, however costs really vary where you are. In Barranco you can expect to spend between $10-15 per person, where in Cusco it’s more like $8-12 per person.

Drinks are also quite cheap, although can vary if going to nicer establishments. Local supermarkets are best for those on a budget , where you can get more quantity and value for your buck.

In bars drinks will of course be more expensive, and even more so when heading to fancy venues in more touristy areas.

• A Street Food Dish (Menu Ejecutivo) = $2-3
• Meal at a Chain Restaurant = $4-8
• Meal at a Luxurious Restaurant = $10-20
• A 2L Bottle of Water = $0.70-1
• Beer at a Local Bar = $2-4
• Beer at a Supermarket = $1

Cost of Activities in Peru per Day

Peru is a real paradise for travelers given the large amount of things we can see and do here. Starting in the cities, we’ll find plenty of awesome tours to do which includes visiting ancient Inca museums, joining local food tours and also heading on walking tours .

When in Lima we highly recommend heading on this awesome food tour , where you’ll try as many as 15 different Peruvian dishes!

Day trips are also a must, where we can head into the outer regions of Peru with ease. These can be booked locally with ease, although online tours may offer other advantages (such as private transport and sticking to the schedule).

This includes visiting alpine lakes in Cusco, going sandboarding in Huacachina or visiting archaeological ruins dotted around the country.

From Lima we can join this organized tour to Huacachina , which includes all transport, a Sandboarding tour as well as a visit to the Ballestas Islands in Paracas.

Multi-day Treks are also insanely beautiful and memorable here, although you’ll want to plan in advance for these (as they are more expensive) . This includes heading on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and also the different mountain circuits in Huaraz such as those of Huayhuash and Santa Cruz.

If you want to visit the Amazon Jungle, then we recommend joining this 3 day tour from Iquitos . Here you’ll stay deep in the jungle, where you can see Pink River Dolphins, meet the Yahuas tribe and also head on some memorable night walks.

• A Visit to a Local Museum (Free-$5)
• Entrance to an Archaeological Site ($5-10)
• Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain ($50-80)
• Multi-Day Inca Trail Trek ($500-800)

Got travel insurance for Peru?

Things to Know Before Traveling to Peru

Here we’ll now cover some of the most important budget-setting tips we have for Peru. We’ll also share some of our very best travel tips too, based on our own experience here.

Using Taxis vs Uber

The most important thing to know when arriving into Lima is that taxis charge almost three times as much as Ubers. They have free WiFi in the airport, so make sure to get an Uber instead.

Generally throughout Peru you’ll also find Uber in most touristy destinations, which is the safest way to catch a ride.

Stay Flexible When Choosing Where to Eat

Peru has an incredible variety of foods, however this doesn’t mean you have to always visit top restaurants when here. Local restaurants also do some fantastic national dishes, and it is also a great way of seeing the local culture. Just make sure to pick one that has a queue (this is the easiest way of validating their reputation).

Keeping an Open Itinerary

Most travelers fix their schedule tightly when heading to Peru. Now if you are really short on time then it makes sense to follow an itinerary like this, however if you have more time then we recommend being open with it.

Not only might you find a place you end up loving, there’s also a tonne of incredible and unique Peruvian destinations you can stumble upon too during your travels!

Properly Setting Your Expectations

It’s important to remember that many parts of Peru are not yet developed, and here the culture will be more raw for the eyes.

For this reason it’s important to stay humble and not expect world-class service or the very best amenities (especially in areas like the mountains or jungle). This way you can also relax more and enjoy your time traveling around Peru with less daily worries.

Choosing Reputable Tour Companies

In general, you’ll find local companies great for city tours and day trips. However when it comes to multi-day experiences (especially those that include hiking), then it’s really important to head with an experienced and reputable tour provider.

For example when heading on the Inca Trail, we recommend booking this multi-day tour , which includes all meals, lodging and your own personal porter.

Trip to Peru Cost of Travel

And that’s all for this guide on the costs of planning a trip to Peru.

This diverse South American country has a little something special for everyone here, and most travelers end up spending longer here than originally planned.

When planning a trip to Peru, you’ll be glad to know that costs are generally quite low , and travelers on all budgets can easily explore everything this incredible nation has to offer.

In this guide we’ve explored the different costs you can have when traveling to Peru. This includes food, accommodation and those must-do activities.

We’ve also covered some important things to know before heading to Peru, as well as some personal tips based on our time spent here.

Are you planning your own trip to Peru? Be sure to read our Peru Travel Itinerary to learn more about the very best destinations.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Peru Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

Peru, a country famous for breathtaking natural wonders and archaeological sites, can be visited with a budget of $40 to $130 a day.

My 10-day trip to Peru cost a total of $2,098 . In this post, I share:

• 💰 Expected travel costs
• 💡 Budgeting tips
• 💵 How much cash to bring
• ✈️ My trip’s costs by category

Planning a trip? Here’s  what to know about Peru .

• Is Peru Affordable?
• How Much Is a Trip?
• About My Trip
• Cost Breakdown
• Daily Budget: $149
• Flight: $613
• Accommodation: $149
• Transportation: $115
• Entertainment: $1,053
• Withdrawing Cash
• How Much Cash to Bring
• Tipping Etiquette

Peru Trip Planner

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Is Peru Affordable To Travel To?

Peru ranks as one of the most affordable destinations in South America. It has a relatively low cost of living, many local markets and street food where you can eat cheaply, and an extremely competitive tourism market that drives costs down.

Along with Ecuador, Colombia, and Bolivia, Peru is among the region’s cheapest countries to travel.

💰 Trip Daily Budget for Latin American Countries

For comparison, I visited these countries in Latin America within a year of visiting Peru, and here’s how much I spent per day at each one:

See all my daily budget for each destination I’ve visited .

How Much Is a Trip to Peru?

This section covers estimated trip costs depending on your travel style. I share my actual travel expenses further below.

🎒 Budget Traveler – Peru Trip Cost

A budget traveler in Peru can expect to spend approximately $40 per day or $650 for two weeks of travel in Peru, excluding flights.

Here’s what a budget traveler’s cost breakdown can look like:

Traveling Peru on a Budget

To travel to Peru on a budget, here are some things you’ll need to do:

• 🏠 Accommodation – For the cheapest options, stay at a dorm-style hostel for as little as $8 a night in major cities like Lima and $6 in places like Cusco . Private rooms at hostels will increase the cost to about $15 a night.
• 🚙 Transportation – Take Peru’s buses, the most common form of public transport for short and long distances. Bus tickets that travel between locations about four hours apart (e.g., Lima to Paracas) can be as low as $12 per ride.

Keep in mind that while local buses are the cheapest way to travel , they can also be difficult for tourists to navigate.

• 🐟 Food – Eat at local restaurants for less than $12 a day, which can save you more than $10 per meal compared to eating at a more touristy restaurant.
• 🦙 Entertainment – One of the best ways to keep costs low is to avoid doing popular Peru tours like Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, and Colca Canyon. This will save you a few hundred dollars. Try to visit these places on your own if it’s feasible (not all of them are).

Some attractions have relatively expensive entrance fees. Machu Picchu’s admission fee is roughly $45 , but a guided tour of it costs more than $100.

• ☀️ Travel Season – The best time to travel to Peru to save money is during its low season, which runs from January to April. This coincides with the rainy season, but you’ll also experience fewer crowds and some of the best deals on accommodations.

If you plan to do popular tours in Peru (e.g., the four-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu ), your total cost will likely be closer to a mid-range traveler’s budget. This is true even if you travel on a budget in the other categories.

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Peru Trip Cost

A mid-range budget traveler like myself can expect to spend approximately $130 per day or $1,820 for two weeks of travel in Peru, excluding flights. I break down my trip expenses by travel category below.

About My Peru Trip

To give context to the expenses below, here’s what you need to know about my trip:

• Lima : 2 days
• Machu Picchu : 4 days
• Huacachina : 1 day
• Cusco : 1 day
• ☀️ Low season . I went to Peru in April, which is part of the low season, coinciding with the wet season.

Peru’s high season is during the dry season from May to October .

• ✌️  Group travel – I traveled with one to three other friends in Peru, so I was able to split costs, such as housing.
• 💰 Mid-range budget – I consider myself a mid-range budget traveler, and these expenses reflect that. I don’t aim to travel on a budget, but I’m thoughtful about how and where I spend.
• 🍀 Self-funded – My trips are self-funded, so I paid for everything listed below. None of my excursions or experiences are sponsored.
• 💵 US dollars  – All costs listed in this post are per person and in US dollars, converted from Peru’s local currency, the Peruvian Sol (PEN).

The exchange rate was $1 USD = S/ 3.70 at the time of writing.

Total Cost for a Peru Trip: $2,098

My 10-day trip to Peru cost a total of $2,098 , including flights.

See the highlights of my trip in this  Peru itinerary .

💰 Cost Breakdown for Peru

Here’s a quick overview of my expenses by travel category:

🗓️ Daily Budget in Peru: $149

My Peru trip cost $149 per day , excluding my round-trip flights from and to the United States.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend approximately $130 per day in Peru. This is someone who generally stays at mid-range hotels that cost about $50 per night, eats at a mix of $ local and $$ high-end restaurants, and pays for experiences even if they’re pricey.

✈️ Flight Cost to Peru: $613

My round-trip flight from the East Coast of the United States to Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima was $613 .

A round-trip flight between the US and Peru that costs under $350 is considered cheap; international flights typically cost over $500.

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Peru: $149

My average cost of accommodation in Peru was $15 per night . I was able to split all my accommodation costs with one other person at all times.

(This total doesn’t include overnight stays on the four-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu; those are included in the tour price under  entertainment .)

Here are the accommodations I stayed at and how much I paid for each:

A private room at mid-range accommodation in touristy cities like Cusco, Lima, and Aguas Calientes will cost approximately $55 a night . Mid-range accommodation in quieter cities that tourists still visit, like Arequipa, Trujillo, and Pisac, will be roughly $25 a night.

🥘 Food Cost in Peru : $170

My average cost of food in Peru was $17 per day.

(This total  doesn’t include  meals provided by the four-day Inca Trail tour; those are included in the tour price under  entertainment . )

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend $25 per day on food in Peru.

Cheapest Meals in Peru

Here are the most affordable meals I ate during my trip:

You can eat street food at local markets to save on food. However, it’s not uncommon for tourists to get stomach issues in Peru, so consider taking a street food tour if you have a sensitive stomach.

Most Expensive Meals in Peru

Here are the most expensive meals I ate during my trip:

Lima is known as the gastronomical capital of South America , so you’ll find restaurants ranging from budget to high-end.

🚙 Transportation Cost in Peru: $115

My average cost of transportation in Peru was $11 per day.

( This total  doesn’t include  transportation provided by the Inca Trail or Huacachina tours; those are included in the tour price under  entertainment .)

Here are the transportation methods I took and how much I paid for each:

For short distances, Uber is available and relatively affordable in tourist places like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. Split with one other person, my Uber rides to the Cusco and Lima airports averaged about $6 per ride . For long distances, buses are the most common transportation method in Peru.

🦙 Entertainment Cost in Peru: $1,053

My average cost of entertainment in Peru was $105 per day. This total includes a 10% to 20% tip at certain places.

Here are all the activities and attractions I paid for and how much each cost:

Expected Cost for Peru’s Top Attractions

Although Peru is an affordable country to visit, many of its main attractions will significantly increase your trip’s budget.

• Machu Picchu – My unforgettable Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, costs over $800, and you generally don’t want to pay less than $650. Anything less likely means the tour operator isn’t paying its porters well.

If you plan to visit Machu Picchu, make sure you’re prepared for altitude sickness .

• Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain – If you’re already in Cusco for Machu Picchu, adding a trip to the beautiful Sacred Valley costs around $40 . A trip to the colorful Rainbow Mountain costs about the same .

• Colca Canyon – A trip to one of the deepest canyons in the world ranges from $40 for a full-day tour to $100 for a multi-day trekking tour .
• Lake Titicaca – An overnight stay in the largest freshwater lake in South America can cost up to $260 .
• Nazca Lines – The best way to see the mysterious Nazca Lines is by air, and a typical plane tour costs at least $100 .
• Amazon Rainforest – The famous Amazon Rainforest covers almost two-thirds of Peru, and staying there for a few days will cost at least $450 .

Do You Need Cash in Peru?

Peru’s economy is largely based on cash transactions , especially in non-tourist areas, so bring some cash. Major cities like Lima have a great credit card infrastructure, and you will only sometimes need cash there.

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Peru.

💵 1. USD is widely accepted in Peru.

The  US dollar and Peruvian soles are widely used  in Peru, so you can withdraw cash in either currency.

If you use USD, expect to receive change in soles, and remember that you may not get a favorable exchange rate.

🏧 2. Carry about $60 worth of cash per day in Peru.

On a typical day, a mid-range budget traveler in Peru will need  at least $60 in cash  to cover food, transportation, and attractions. A daily cash expense breakdown can look like this:

• $20 at local markets, restaurants, and cafes
• $30 to tip tour guides, drivers, and other service workers
• $10 for shopping and miscellaneous spending

I keep my cash in my crossbody bag , but if you want extra protection against pickpocketing , carry it in a hidden money belt instead.

💰 3. Tipping is customary in Peru.

In Peru, a  10% to 15% tip  is customary and standard. Tips are expected for tourist activities.

Tipping is best done through cash and small bills , especially when you’re tipping tour guides who may need to split tips with other workers.

See other essential travel tips for Peru before visiting.

To make your travel planning easier , download the trip planner below and use it as a starting point. The planner has country-specific travel information, an itinerary, a packing list, and a map with key places pinned.

The trip planner is built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning (I genuinely love this tool). If you don’t have Notion, creating an account is free .

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Peru Travel Guides

• 🇵🇪 Planning a Trip to Peru: 11 Practical Things To Know
• ⛰️ 10 Adventurous Days in Peru: An Efficient Itinerary
• ☀️ Inca Trail Hike Practical Guide: Risks & Firsthand Tips
• 🏂🏻 Huacachina Day Trip: Sandboarding & What To Wear

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

I’m an older single traveler wanting to go to Peru from Costa Rica. I prefer a tour for safety in # reasons and I’d like to go to the best sites. I can get my own airline tickets but looking for a tour group once there that does it all- hotels transportation meals etc. Can you recommend a tour co?

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Is Peru an Expensive Place to Visit in 2023?

By Author Arakita Rimbayana

Posted on Last updated: 6th October 2023

If you’re feeling drawn to the ever-popular Inca Trail and its mesmerizing focal point, Machu Picchu, you’re not alone. Every day, thousands of people flock to the lost city, whether they are luxury or budget travelers.

Peru caters to everyone, regardless of budget. Indeed, it’s one of the top  cheap places to travel in South America . However, the cost of traveling in Peru depends on what you want to experience – and it’s as easy to do it on a shoestring as to really splurge on some unique tours and beautiful luxury hotels.

I’ve traveled to Peru on multiple occasions across the years and seen how pricing has changed and where it’s worth spending cash – and where it certainly isn’t.

I’ve dived into the details to give you the lowdown on the cost of traveling in Peru.

Click to navigate this article:

Key things to know about traveling in Peru

• There are only a few direct flights within Peru that don’t go via Lima.  Most flight routes involve a stop in the capital city. 
• There are many bus routes throughout the country, although it’s always wise to pay for a more expensive bus company, as cheaper operators can be dangerous.  We recommend using companies such as  Cruz del Sur ,  Oltursa ,  TEPSA ,  Movil , and  Civa  for their higher safety credentials.  Bus Bud  is a great site for finding bus tickets before you travel, but they are often cheaper when bought at the bus station directly.
• Bus rides within Peru are typically long and grueling, winding through the mountains.  If you tend to suffer from motion sickness, do bring medication. For Cusco and other cities at high elevations, altitude sickness can also be an issue, so consult your doctor for medication before you travel. 
• Traveling by bus can be a lot cheaper than taking domestic flights.  For instance, if you’re traveling from Lima to Cusco, a bus ticket can cost as little as $27 USD for a 140-degree reclining seat, or $45 USD for a much more comfortable 160/180-degree reclining seat (although 180-degree reclining seats are only typically available on routes between major cities). By contrast, flying can cost almost double that amount. These buses tend to cover long distances, however, so you can face up to 22 hours on a bus between Lima and Cusco!
• If you can spare at least one week in Peru, you might want to consider  Peru Hop .  Rather than simply going from point A to B, Peru Hop offers a unique journey where you can hop on and off at interesting destinations along the way. A three-day adventure through Paracas and Nazca with Peru Hop, for instance, costs $179 USD. Although it may be a bit more expensive, it’s definitely worth every penny and one of the best ways to travel in Peru for those who don’t speak Spanish, as you’ll have a local English-speaking guide accompanying you.
• Some local establishments, such as shops and restaurants, do not accept payment by card.  It’s best to carry some local currency (Peruvian Nuevo Sol or PEN).

• The 2023 protests had a significant impact on tourism in the area.  Some sites are currently closed, while others can only be visited with a local guide.
• Although the Peruvian Sol remains relatively stable, prices may fluctuate due to volatile exchange rates.  Prices for tours are typically quoted in US dollars, however. 
• It’s becoming increasingly easier to pay using your credit card across Peru.  ​Some restaurants and guesthouses still only accept cash, however, so always have a reserve of Sols on hand. 
• Tap water isn’t potable and bottled water can cost from $1 USD for a liter.  To save money, it’s wise to invest in a travel water filter (such as my favorite, the Steripen) and a reusable Nalgene water bottle. 

Planning Your Trip to Peru?

Save time, stress & money with a customized travel itinerary planned for you by a Peru expert

What previous clients have said:

Steph’s help laying out an itinerary for Chile was huge toward us having a great trip.  She listened to our interests and compiled a framework that we could follow to make our plans.  She included many practical tips as well as numerous options. She truly saved us many, many hours of research.

Recommended daily travel budget for Peru

For budget travelers: around s/100 ($27 usd) per day.

If you’re planning to explore Peru on a tight budget, don’t worry about giving up comfort. Many hostels offer cozy dorms or shared rooms without breaking the bank: you can snag a spot for around S/50 ($13.5 USD) per person per night. Take  Selina Arequipa , for example: they’ve got shared dorms with comfy bunk beds and privacy curtains for only S/54 ($14 USD) per person.

Eating on a budget is also doable; most budget-friendly accommodations will have a shared kitchen where you can whip up easy meals and buying ingredients from local markets is an easy way to keep costs down. But if you’re feeling adventurous, check out the local restaurants. The cost of food in Peru is relatively cheap: you can grab a satisfying meal for around S/10 ($3 USD). 

Street food and snacks are even cheaper – around half the price! It’s a steal considering the amazing culinary scene here and the cheapest way to eat. You can find  mouthwatering Peruvian dishes  even at street food stalls.

When it comes to getting around, you can go super cheap by doing what the locals do: hop on a colectivo. A colectivo is a public transportation minivan that fits around 20 people. Depending on the distance, a ride will set you back around S/2 to S/10 ($0.5 to $2.7 USD).

For example, a colectivo ride from Cusco to Pisac, a charming town in the Sacred Valley 20 miles (32 km) away, costs around S/6 ($1.6 USD).

For mid-range travelers: around S/350 ($96 USD)

If you’re looking for a more comfortable yet still economical way to experience Peru, budget around S/250 or $68 USD for a day, and treat yourself to an upgraded lodging option that offers better amenities and a well-appointed room, as the cost of accommodation in Peru is typically very affordable.

One great option is  Quinta San Blas  ($130 USD double) in Cusco, a mid-range hotel that offers incredible value for money. The nature-inspired rooms have crisp white linens and overlook a sunny courtyard. For more choices in the $50-$150 USD range, check out our guide to  the best hotels and guesthouses in Peru .

Treat yourself to a delicious dish every now and then, costing around S/20 ($6 USD) per plate. One must-try is “Arroz con pato” which literally translates to “Rice with duck.” You can find this delightful dish at local restaurants, but for the ultimate experience, head over to  Nanka  in Lima, where they serve it marinated in “leche de tigre” (“tiger’s milk,” a spicy, citrus-based marinade).

When it comes to getting around, you can opt for local taxis instead of buses or colectivos. The quality of cars varies, so you might end up in a less-than-stellar one even though the fare remains the same.

Typically, a one-kilometer (0.6-mile) trip costs around S/4 ($1 USD).  Note that taxis are unmetered, so it’s best to ask and agree upon the fare amount before you set off.

For luxury travelers: around S/1500 ($406 USD)

If you’re prepared to splurge in Peru, get ready for a treat: many tourism companies go all out to provide visitors with the best of the best.

Picture yourself in a luxurious suite in the cloud forest of Machu Picchu;  Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo  ($548 USD double) offers just that. If you’re feeling adventurous, spend the night in a suite capsule suspended 400 meters above the ground at  Skylodge Adventure Suites  ($400 USD per person).

For the fine-dining aficionados out there, you’ll be pleased to know that enjoying the best Peruvian dishes doesn’t have to break the bank. A three-course meal typically costs around S/100 ($27 USD) excluding drinks.

One must-visit spot is  Piedra & Sal , an exclusive restaurant in Cusco, which serves some of the most delicious dishes I’ve ever tasted. My personal favorite is the slow-cooked lamb, Seco Norteño – simply divine!

While taxis are readily available in Peru – especially in big cities like Lima, Arequipa, and Cusco – consider renting a car with a driver or arranging your pickups through your hotel, as it’s a safer and more convenient option. To be on the safe side, budget around $50 USD per day for transportation expenses.

What does it cost to explore Peru?

The cost to travel to Peru can vary greatly depending on your desired destinations and activities. Below, we provide you with information on eight popular places to visit in Peru and their associated costs.

Like most capital cities, Lima can be expensive if you don’t know where to go: just because a hotel is expensive, it doesn’t guarantee top-notch service. It’s wise to follow recommendations and consider spending a few extra dollars for peace of mind if necessary.

If you’re looking to indulge, budget around $120 USD per night for accommodation. For that price, you can enjoy the top-tier “Unique” room at  Selina Lima , complete with a private balcony.

When exploring Lima’s restaurant scene, it’s best not to skimp on budget: the city has many fine seafood dishes, including parihuela and ceviche. While there are numerous ceviche spots in Lima, the one served at  La Mar Cevicheria  stands out from the rest. Lima is the perfect place not just for flying into Peru but also to dine out frequently and treat yourself to exceptional food experiences.

You’ll also find plenty of museums and activities to do in Lima, such as visiting the incredible  Museo Larco  (packed to the rafters with gold and other treasures from pre-Columbian civilizations). Entrance fees for visiting locations such as these typically start from $5 USD. 

The center of Lima (the area around the Plaza de Armas) is only seven miles (11 km) from the airport. A quick 30-minute taxi ride, costing approximately S/45 ($12 USD), can take you directly to the city center.

2. Cusco and the Sacred Valley

As we mentioned earlier, you can either get on a bus or fly from Lima to Cusco. Traveling by bus can be a lot cheaper than taking domestic flights. A bus ticket can cost as little as $27 USD for a seat with a 140-degree recline, or $45 USD for a much more comfortable 160/180-degree reclining seat.

By contrast, flying can cost you almost double that amount (an average cost of around $70 USD with LATAM Airlines).

Living costs in the Sacred Valley are relatively inexpensive. Despite its popularity among tourists and its slew of tourist attractions, this region has retained much of its original character, allowing you to experience a simple and humble lifestyle alongside local people.

Dining at restaurants, even the high-end ones, is affordable. Entrées tend to cost no more than S/20 ($5 USD), although you will certainly not find the same quality of restaurant as you will in nearby Cusco.

Accommodation can cost from as little as S/20 ($5 USD) or as much as $400 USD, depending on the type of hotel, guesthouse, or hostel in which you stay. Luckily, there are plenty of  hotel choices in the Sacred Valley to match your budget.

The only public transport available in the Sacred Valley is a colectivo, a small van that operates from Cusco to Chinchero and Cusco to Urubamba and Ollantaytambo. One usually passes every five to ten minutes and stops at every town in between. They will also take passengers from the street if there are any empty seats.

3. Machu Picchu

Despite its increasing popularity, Machu Picchu remains secluded, with no cities near the site. The nearest city, Cusco, is 72 miles (115 km) away; the distance from Lima to Machu Picchu is more than 600 miles (965 km).

Therefore, when planning a visit to Machu Picchu, most of your budget will go on transportation, in addition to the S/152 ($42 USD) entrance ticket.

Want a cheeky 5% discount on the Inca trail or Salkantay trek?

Alpaca Expeditions are not only one of the most sustainable companies offering Salkantay and Inca trail treks to Machu Picchu, but their guides, porters and chefs are the ultimate hosts.

They’re now offering Worldly Adventurer readers a 5% discount on all of their hikes – just mention Worldly Adventurer when you enquire!

Flights from Lima to Cusco are typically priced around $70 USD for a one-way journey. From Cusco, you have a few options to reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The cheapest public transport option is to take a colectivo to Ollantaytambo and continue the journey by train, which costs approximately $58 USD per person.

In my opinion, however, it’s best to take a direct train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, even though it costs $70 USD. This option offers a less complicated and more convenient trip for just $12 USD more.

There are also trekking routes available to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco, such as the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek . However, these treks are not free and require several days to complete. Therefore, you’ll have to allocate extra budget for accommodation along the way.

For more detailed information on the cost of visiting Machu Picchu, I recommend checking out our comprehensive guide to Machu Picchu costs .

4. Arequipa and the Colca Canyon

If you decide to undertake  the hike to Colca Canyon  – the second deepest canyon in the world and a grueling but worthwhile hike – the hike itself is free of charge if you do it independently. Your budget here will mainly go toward transportation, food, and accommodation.

Fortunately, flights between Lima and Arequipa are frequent and reasonably priced. For example, LATAM Airlines offer one-way trips starting from $50 USD (excluding checked baggage fees).

Alternatively, it’s easy to hop on a bus from Cusco to Arequipa (10 hours; book online through Bus Bud or at the bus station in Cusco), which should cost around $24 USD.

For a self-guided three-day/two-night hike, you can expect to spend around $150 USD for two people in a double room. This cost covers accommodation (one night each in Llahuar and Sangalle), colectivo fares to and from Arequipa, and meals at the lodgings.

Joining a guided tour may offer cost savings, as they usually provide dormitory-style accommodation, although some may allow you to upgrade to private rooms at extra cost. The prices of tours range from $30 USD to $100 USD per person per day, depending on the services and amenities provided by the tour operator.

5. Rainbow Mountain

Vinicunca – or Rainbow Mountain as it’s better known – has gained popularity among visitors to Peru, attracting thousands of tourists daily. While the entrance ticket is only S/10 (around $3 USD), the overall cost of visiting can be quite high.

In addition to the $70 USD required for a flight from Lima to Cusco, the closest city to Vinicunca, you will also need to arrange transportation to reach the mountain. A taxi ride covering the 66 miles (106 km) distance can cost approximately $100 USD; joining a tour bus package starts at $20 USD per person.

However, it’s important to note that Vinicunca is not on our list of recommended things to do in Peru . The area has been affected by environmental and cultural issues due to the influx of outsiders, including tourists, visiting and crowding the region.

Instead of visiting Vinicunca, we suggest exploring other destinations that are equally beautiful but have a significantly lower impact on the environment and local communities.

One alternative is Palcoyo, which offers breathtaking scenery with a fraction of the crowds found at Vinicunca.  Amazonas Explorer offers a hiking tour  to this “other” Rainbow Mountain and provides a unique and less crowded experience. Get a 5% discount if you mention Worldly Adventurer when enquiring.

6. Southern Coast

Make your trip from Lima to Cusco a lot more exciting by making stops at Pisco, Paracas, Huacachina, and Nazca, where you’ll find massive geoglyphs.

Start your adventure by taking a four-hour bus ride south from Lima to Pisco, with tickets starting from $10 USD. Pisco is famous for its namesake drink, a distilled grape brandy that’s a must-try while you are in Peru.

Once you’ve had your fill of Pisco, continue your journey with a quick 30-minute bus trip to Paracas, one of the  most popular destinations to visit in Peru , which will only cost you around $5 USD. This is where the boat trip to Ballestas Islands, aka the Peruvian Galapagos, starts.

Another $5 USD bus ride – this time over an hour long – will take you to the Huacachina Oasis. But if you’re pressed for time, skip Huacachina and head straight to Nazca. The bus ride from Paracas to Nazca takes about four hours and costs approximately $10 to $20 USD.

Each bus ride is a separate leg of the journey, so you’ll need to purchase tickets individually – either online or offline at the bus station. Most bus operators in these areas don’t speak English, so communication might be a bit challenging.

If all this sounds like too much hassle,  Peru Hop  offers a more convenient option. For just $179 USD, you can embark on a three-day adventure from Paracas to Nazca and all the way to Cusco.

It’s not just a bus trip, but a unique experience where you can hop on and off at interesting destinations along the way. Plus, you’ll have a local English-speaking guide to accompany you throughout the journey.

7. Lake Titicaca

Puno – as mentioned in our extensive  Peru guide  – is the gateway for all destinations in the Lake Titicaca area. Though small, this city has several accommodation options for travelers. If you’re flying from Lima, you can catch a domestic flight to Inca Manco Cápac International Airport: prices usually range from $30 to $60 USD.

The downside is that the airport is quite far from downtown Puno: about 64 miles (102 km) away. Unfortunately, there’s no convenient public transport available, so your best option is to hop in a taxi, but it’ll cost you around $100 USD.

It’s easiest to reach Puno using a public bus from Cusco (6.5 hours; book online through Bus Bud or at the bus station in Cusco) which should cost around $19 USD.

When it comes to accommodation, you can’t beat  GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca  ($88 USD double), which sits on the tiny Isla Esteves and is connected to the mainland by a road bridge. If you’re on a tighter budget, consider going for a homestay experience on Amantani Island instead.

8. Northern Peru

While often overlooked by tourists, Northern Peru offers a unique and captivating experience that rivals the popular destinations in the country. Imagine stunning landscapes almost untouched by civilization, where you can appreciate the beauty without having to jostle with crowds of tourists.

It’s true that the northern side doesn’t immediately come to mind when thinking about what to do in Peru. However, this is actually a positive aspect for the region: fewer visitors mean that it’s less touristy.

As a result, you’ll find that food costs are cheaper here compared to Lima and other parts of Peru. Plus, you can book a suite at a luxurious beachfront hotel in Máncora for less than half the price of other beach destinations in the area.

To explore Northern Peru from Lima, make your way to Trujillo, where you’ll find fascinating archaeological sites that predate the Inca Empire.

You have two options to get there: a nine-hour bus journey for $25 to $50 USD, or a quick 45-minute flight costing $85 to $125 USD, followed by an easy taxi ride into the city.

Worldly Adventurer founder, Steph, has put together a comprehensive list of  recommended tours in Northern Peru , to tempt you to spend a few extra days in this part of the country.

When is the cheapest time to visit Peru?

Just like other popular travel destinations around the world, Peru has its high season and low season, and costs can vary accordingly. During the high season, hotel rates are considerably higher than in the off-season.

Typically, if you book your accommodation several months in advance – six months or more – you can secure cheaper hotel rates. However, for Peru’s most popular spots like Machu Picchu, this strategy may not work as most hotels already set their high season rates well in advance. The same goes for flight costs.

That being said, there are certain areas in Peru that don’t experience a significant influx of visitors during the high season, and have weather conditions that remain relatively stable throughout the year. In such cases, the best time to visit Peru might align with the cheapest time to fly there.

If you want to learn more about when to visit Peru, I recommend checking out our piece on  the best time to visit Peru  for valuable insights that will help you plan your trip.

Peru trip cost: Is Peru an expensive place to visit?

So, is Peru cheap or expensive to travel to? The simple answer is that it’s cheap, but it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and chosen destinations.

If you’re comfortable sharing accommodation with fellow travelers and opt for inexpensive meals, you can manage with a budget as low as $27 USD per day.

But if you’re looking for a more comfortable yet still economical way to experience Peru, budget around S/250 or $68 USD for a day.

Need more inspiration for your trip to Peru? Read our guide to the best places to visit in Peru or get your planning off to a quick start with our detailed Peru travel itineraries .

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Peru Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Travelers flock to Peru to hike the famous Inca Trail, explore the lush jungles, and devour their way through the incredible food scene of Lima.

But while the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu attract the majority of the attention (2,500 people visit Machu Picchu every day), there is much more to see and do in Peru if you’re willing to get out there and explore.

From the famous Lake Titicaca to the beaches in the north to the vibrant indigenous culture, Peru is bursting with things to see and do.

While many travelers just visit for a week to see the highlights, you can easily spend a month here (or more) and still not see everything.

Best of all, traveling around Peru is inexpensive. You don’t need a lot of money to visit here (even if you hike the Inca trail).

This guide to Peru can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this beautiful destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Peru

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Peru

1. Explore Machu Picchu

This legendary “lost city of the Incas” is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in South America. Here you have the chance to wander around the old Inca city observing ancient aqueducts, granite and limestone temples, and other forms of Inca architecture that are all beautifully preserved. There are two ways to see Machu Picchu depending on the amount of adventure and exercise you want. There is a 4-day/3 night hike that takes you through 43 kilometers (26 miles) of steep, yet scenic uphill terrain along winding Andean mountain trails starting from Ollantaytambo. The Inca Trail gets you to the majestic Machu Picchu at dawn in time to see it before the clouds arrive mid-morning. The alternative is to wake up super early to get the train there and enter along with the tour groups competing for the beautiful morning sunset photos. (There are also longer 7-8 day hikes too if you want an even bigger challenge. Multi-day hikes start around 2,600 PEN. You can also just buy a day pass if you don’t want to hike.

2. Check out Lima

Lima is a chaotic and beautiful introduction to the country. Check out the trendy, vibrant Miraflores neighborhood that overlooks the Pacific and has plenty of restaurants and bars to try. Also, visit the Larco Museum to see its pre-Columbian artifacts, the Aliaga House for Peruvian art and artifacts, and Plaza Mayor for colonial beauty. Tour the city’s colorful markets for both food and shopping, wander around the world’s only Cat Park, or check out the Park of Love for good luck in love. At night, head to the artsy Barranco district for the nightlife and try a local drink with pisco, a local brandy. The city is a foodie hub too so don’t forget to try the ceviche!

3. Fly over the Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are a series of ancient geoglyphs that dominate the San José desert and Nazca Valley. There are over 10,000 lines and 300 different plant and animal figures that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site. No one really knows how they got there (maybe aliens?) but the park itself is free to visit. If you want to splash out and get a better view, take a scenic helicopter or plane tour (they cost around 400 PEN).

4. Relax at Lake Titicaca

This stunning lake covers over 7,790 square kilometers (3,000 square miles) and sits at 3,810 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level, making it the world’s largest high-altitude lake. With deep blue water and spectacular sunsets across the lake lined with snowy mountains, this lake attracts people from all over the world to the nearby towns, which offer a mix of colonial architecture and bustling markets. There are three islands on the lake that are home to pre-Inca ruins: Isla del Sol, Taquile, and Amantani. Every year, the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca at Puno celebrates the Fiesta de la Virgen de Candelaria in February. However, the best and driest time to visit is June, July, and August.

5. Hike the Colca Canyon

Other things to see and do in peru, 1. hike the inca trail.

Getting to Machu Picchu is best via the famed Inca Trail . This multi-day hike allows you to see the mountains, jungles, and follow the route the Incas used to take. It is a truly spectacular hike, but it is challenging and you may experience altitude sickness. There are two ways to do this hike: you can sign up to be part of an organized tour, or you can hire your own private guide. You cannot hike the trail independently. Tours start around 2,600 PEN for a 4-day, 3-night tour with a reliable, reputable company. The final leg of the hike can actually get a bit crowded, so if you can do a longer 7-day hike you’ll be able to beat the crowds and enjoy the incredible landscape before you arrive. The driest time is May-October but also unfortunately the most crowded. If you go from November-April, prepare for mud and perhaps rain but fewer crowds.

2. Visit the Islas Flotantes de los Uros

The Floating Islands of the Uros may sound like an Indiana Jones title, but it is actually the name of the group of man-made islands in Lake Titicaca. The islands are home to the indigenous Uros people who have built their own houses, islands, and boats from the tortora reeds which grow along the banks of the lake. This is an extremely touristy site and is a bit exploited as such, so it’s not for everyone. The boat tours start at 165 PEN.

3. Surf at Máncora Beach

Great fresh seafood, watersports, horseback riding, whale watching, fishing with locals, visiting the mangroves, and plenty of relaxation are the order of the day at this popular beach resort. Máncora is one of the finest beaches in South America and its year-round sunshine, two ocean currents, and beginner-friendly waves also make it Peru’s surfing Mecca. Accommodation prices can be expensive from December to March, so it’s best to book in advance. Whale watching costs 135 PEN, surfing classes start at 95 PEN, and SUP tours with sea turtles cost 175 PEN.

4. Step back through time at Batán Grande

Batán Grande, also known as the Sicán Archaeological Complex, is an archaeological site comprising 50 pyramids and tombs, which are thought to date to 750-1300 CE. Located near Chiclayo, this site was once the ancient Sicán capital and has yielded many impressive pre-Columbian artifacts. For example, a gold Tumi ceremonial knife weighing almost seven pounds was recovered from one of the royal tombs! Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks for the day.

5. Discover Cusco

This colonial city is a major tourist destination and sits on Inca-built stone foundations not far from Machu Picchu. The area is popular with trail walkers, history lovers, and party goers who come to enjoy the city’s nightlife and festivals. Cusco is the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas and an essential part of your trip to Peru. The Cusco Tourist Ticket grants admission to most of the popular archaeological sites and attractions in the Cusco area (with some notable exceptions, including Machu Picchu). Note that transportation and guide services are separate. You can purchase either a 10-day pass that includes admission to over 16 sites (130 PEN) or one of several different “circuit” tickets that include admission to a smaller number of sites and are valid for one day only (70 PEN). Be sure to visit Coricancha (15 PEN) and Sacsayhuaman (included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket) during your visit. Right outside Cusco, take a day trip to the incredible Rainbow Mountains. For great food, head to Green Point. Plan to spend around 3-5 days in Cusco as there is plenty to see and it’s a good place to acclimate before doing any hiking as the city sits at 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) above sea level.

6. Get your Amazon fix in Iquitos

Accessible only by boat or plane, jungle-locked Iquitos is the largest city within the Peruvian rainforest. The city sits at the mouth of the Amazon and is the perfect destination for eco-tourism. The nearby Pacaya Samiria National Reserve is Peru’s largest reserve at two million hectares. It’s home to a huge range of nearly 1,000 birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, and more. A 3-day, 2-night tour through the reserve starts from around 1,400-1,500 PEN per person including food.

7. Sandboard in Huacachina

This little town is a desert oasis and a welcome relief after hiking through Machu Picchu. It’s very affordable and hostels here offer great deals for sandboarding and sand buggy tours around the nearby dunes. Two-hour tours cost about 100-125 PEN, which includes a sand buggy driver and sandboard rental. Most tours leave around 4pm so you can catch the sunset on the dunes. There is also a lagoon surrounded by palm trees in Huacachina, and you can rent a rowboat to paddle around it. A half-hour rental costs around 5 PEN per person. Huacachina is easily reached by bus from Lima, Cusco, Nazca, Arequipa, and Paracas.

8. See penguins in Paracas

Paracas is in the south of Peru and is sometimes called the “Poor Man’s Galapagos” for its impressive wildlife, consisting of over 400 different species. Thousands of birds, as well as large sea lion and penguin populations, call the area home. You can visit the Paracas National Reserve via an organized boat tour. Be sure to go early. A full-day tour of Paracas includes a boat trip to the Islas Ballestas and a bus trip around the national reserve in the afternoon. It costs about 150 PEN.

9. Walk through the White City

Arequipa is a beautiful city with a historical center that was constructed primarily from volcanic rock. Start getting to know the city by wandering around the Plaza de Armas and take in the city’s architecture over a glass of wine overlooking the main square with views of the stunning Basilica Catedral de Arequipa. Then, visit the gorgeous, vibrantly colorful Santa Catalina Monastery, see a frozen Inca mummy, and enjoy the local cuisine with favorites like shrimp soup or spicy stuffed peppers. It’s easy to see why Arequipa is undoubtedly one of the most beloved destinations in the country; everyone who visits here loves it.

10. Go to El Parque de la Reserva

This park in downtown Lima is home to the largest water fountain complex in the world, called El Circuito Mágico del Agua . There are 13 distinct fountains in total, including the Tunnel Fountain of Surprises, the Children’s Fountain, and the Fantasia Fountain, whose water jets are synchronized to music during the evening laser light shows. The park is open daily from 3pm-10pm, with beautiful, colorful light shows taking place at 6:50pm, 7:50pm, 8:30pm, and 9:30pm. The entrance fee is 4 PEN. The park also hosts a lot of events and is a popular place with dog owners too.

11. Visit Chachapoyas

This region in the Andean mountains was home to the Chachapoya civilization that lived there between 500-1432 (they were eventually conquered by the Aztecs). Today, you can visit Kuelap, the fortified city at known as “The Machu Picchu of the North.” The ruins are accessible via a guided tour, 4-hour hike, or cable car from the nearby town of Nuevo Tingo for 21 PEN roundtrip. Be sure to also visit Gocta, a beautiful waterfall that, at 770 meters (2,526 feet), is one of the tallest in the world. You can get there by taking a tour from Chachapoyas.

12. Tour Trujillo

Trujillo is the second-oldest Spanish city in Peru, located on the coast with eternal spring-like weather and widely considered the capital culture of Peru. While here, visit the archaeological site of Chan Chan, the world’s largest adobe city ever built and the largest pre-Columbian city. It was built by the Chimu, a civilization that inhabited the area until 1470 when they were defeated by the Incas. Admission is 11 PEN. Be sure to also visit Huanchaco, a small fishing town directly on the beach.

13. See Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain

Chances are you’ve seen these colorful mountains on social media. Over the past few years, Rainbow Mountain has become a huge tourist attraction. Just keep in mind that the colors are not as vivid in real life and the place is super crowded (it’s a very popular site). Day trips and multi-day hikes are available from Cusco, usually starting around 110-135 PEN per person. There is also an “Alternative” Rainbow Mountain called Palcccoyo where you can enjoy an incredibly colorful scenic panoramic at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). If you want to escape the hordes of people (though it’s also pretty busy these days).

14. Hike the Salkantay

If you want an alternative to the busy Inca Trail, try hiking the Salkantay. It sees a fraction of the tourists and is half the price of the Inca Trail — but just as stunning! There aren’t as many ruins, but there are epic mountain views and summits of up to 5,200 meters (17.060 feet)! Hikes can vary in length, but the 7-day hike offers the best views. You’ll need to be in decent shape though. 5-day hikes start around 1,700 PEN.

Peru Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs 35-65 PEN while a bed in a dorm with 10 or more beds generally costs 32-38 PEN. A private room costs 115-170 PEN per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have a kitchen or include free breakfast.

Budget hotel rooms with basic amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, and occasionally free breakfast cost around 85-105 PEN per night.

On Airbnb, which has limited availability in Peru, private rooms average around 100 PEN while entire homes start at 200 PEN per night. Book early though or prices will double.

For those traveling with a tent, wild camping is permitted as long as you’re not on somebody’s land.

Food – Cuisine in Peru varies from region to region, though you can expect to find staples like potatoes (most potatoes in the world originated here), quinoa, seafood, and indigenous animals like guinea pig and alpaca. Be sure to try ceviche, which is the national dish (it’s a seafood dish with fresh raw fish). Other popular dishes include stir-fried beef, roasted cuy (guinea pig), arroz con pato (rice with duck), and roasted chicken.

Overall, dining out in Peru is very inexpensive. Street food is incredibly cheap, costing 5-7 PEN for a meal from a parrilla (grill) set up on the side of the road. A plate of food at a casual takeaway restaurant serving Peruvian cuisine costs around 10 PEN.

A meal of traditional cuisine at a casual restaurant with table service costs around 15-25 PEN. If you want to splash out, a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs 45 PEN.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) is 20 PEN for a combo meal. A large pizza is around 28-30 PEN.

Beer is around 8 PEN while a glass of wine or a latte is around 9 PEN. Bottled water is 2 PEN. A cocktail is 15-20 PEN and up, though many restaurants have extended happy hour specials (sometimes even all day).

If you plan on cooking, expect to pay 60-80 PEN per week for groceries such as pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. The best places to shop are the local markets, though Plaza Vea is the big grocery store chain with affordable prices as well. However, given how cheap food is here, it’s best to just eat out all the time. Buy snacks and fruit at the markets but eat out all other meals.

Backpacking Peru Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget of 135 PEN per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat out for a few meals at cheap local street stalls and cook some meals, limit your drinking, take the bus to get around, and do mostly free or cheap activities like relaxing on the beach and going hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 400 PEN per day, you can afford a private Airbnb room, eat out for all your meals, drink more, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like going surfing or day-tripping to Machu Picchu.

On a “luxury” budget of 700 PEN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, take some domestic flights, and do a longer multi-day trek to Machu Picchu. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in PEN.

Peru Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Peru is generally pretty cheap, but it is easy to splash out here on food and tours. Here are a few hacks to cut down your costs in Peru:

• Stay at hospedajes – These are family-run hotels and are the cheapest accommodation you can find outside of hostel dorms. Try to stay in these as often as possible.
• Take public transportation – Embrace public transportation to get around — it’s super affordable so skip the taxis. You’ll save a fortune.
• Eat the meal of the day – These are set meals, often including multiple plates, that restaurants offer. Look around for set menu meals to eat out on the cheap.
• Travel off-season – For a low-cost trip, the best times to visit Peru are the fringe months of April and May or September and October. Prices are usually cheaper during these months.
• Take the colectivos – These are cheap buses that cost around 2-10 PEN for a ride. They are a bit confusing as they don’t necessarily have a schedule, but there is always a door person whom you can ask if the bus is going to your location. There are not always marked bus stops, so look for gathering crowds.
• Book tours last minute – If you are looking to do the Inca Trail and have a bit of extra time to wait for a deal, showing up in Cusco and booking a last-minute tour can save you lots of money. Booking months in advance means paying the premium price but if you can wait your patience may be rewarded. I wouldn’t recommend trying to get on last-minute if you have your heart set on doing it though since it might not work out.
• Go on a free walking tour – This is a great way to learn the history behind the places you are seeing and avoid missing any must-see stops. Free Walking Tour Peru has tours that can guide you around both Lima and Cusco. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Peru

Peru has a ton of hostels. Here are some of my favorite places to stay throughout the country:

• Pariwana Hostel (Lima)
• 1900 Backpackers Hostel (Lima)
• Loki Hostel (Cusco)
• Kokopelli (Cusco)
• Wild Rover Hostel (Cusco)
• Hospedaje Turistico Recoleta (Cusco)
• Arequipay Backpackers Downtown (Arequipa)
• Loki del Mar (Mancora)
• The Point Mancora Beach (Mancora)

How to Get Around Peru

Public transportation – City buses cost around 1.50-3 PEN per trip. Microbuses ( colectivos ) are available and prices vary depending on the distance. Trips generally cost 2-10 PEN, though they are a bit hectic and take some getting used to.

Bus – Buses can take you all over Peru and are the most common way to get around for budget travelers. The usual price for a 10-hour bus journey is around 40 PEN depending on how nice the bus company is. You can use Cruz del Sur to look up bus schedules and prices. Keep in mind that any journey through the mountains will be a slow ride! Lima to Cusco takes over 21 hours and costs 185 PEN, though you can get a ticket for as low as 39 PEN if you book in advance.

Peru Hop is another reliable and comfortable bus company designed for backpackers. This bus is a hop-on/hop-off service you can take around the country. Three-day journeys from Lima to Cusco start from 683 PEN, while 7 days in Southern Peru costs 836 PEN.

Flying – Peru has five international airports (Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, Iquitos, and Piura), as well over a dozen airports with domestic service. LATAM, Avianca, and Star Peru are the main domestic airlines.

Flying between destinations isn’t always the cheapest option, but it’s a whole lot quicker. A flight from Lima to Cusco takes just over an hour (as opposed to the 21 hours by bus) and prices start around 250 PEN. Lima to Arequipa starts around 200 PEN.

Train – Like the rest of South America, the rail system in Peru is basically non-existent. There are nice tourist options though, like PeruRail and Inca Rail, which both run trains between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu Pueblo (the gateway to Machu Picchu). On PeruRail, tickets start from 179 PEN. Inca Rail also runs between Cusco and Machu Picchu Pueblo with tickets starting around 220 PEN.

From Lima, there’s just one train: the Ferrocarril Central Andino, the world’s highest passenger train, which travels across the Andes to Cerro de Pasco and Huancayo. One-way fare starts from 230 PEN. However, service is limited — sometimes the train only runs once a month. Journeys are currently suspended due to Covid so be sure to check their website for updates.

Car rental – I don’t suggest renting a car here as the drivers are aggressive, the roads are poorly maintained, and accidents are common. If you do decide to rent a car, use Discover Cars to find the best prices.

When to Go to Peru

Peru has just two seasons: wet and dry. May through October is the dry season, while November through April is the rainy season. The wettest months are from January to the end of April. This isn’t a great time to visit Peru — at least not in the mountain areas, where roads and hiking trails may become blocked or closed.

Most people come to Peru from the beginning of May to the end of November, with July and August being the busiest months. May and September are great months to visit, as tourism slows down slightly but temperatures are still pleasant.

If you want to spend more time in the mountains, June to September has clear, sunny days (but chilly nights). This is a good time to trek the Inca Trail. It’s also the best time to visit the Amazon Basin, when mosquitos are fewer.

Temperatures on the desert coast can get as high as 25-35°C (77-95°F) from December to April, while temperatures cool off from May-October. In the highlands from May-October, you can expect temperatures to reach 20-25°C (68-77°F).

How to Stay Safe in Peru

Peru is a pretty safe place to backpack and travel around, even for solo travelers, and even for solo female travelers. Your biggest worry is petty theft, which is rampant in the bigger cities and on overnight buses. Don’t flaunt expensive jewelry or belongings. Avoid taking your phone out in public if you can. Lock your bags on overnight buses and keep your valuables secure and out of sight. It’s easy to get robbed if you aren’t careful here (especially at night).

If you’re in Lima, don’t walk around alone at night, unless you’re in the safer neighborhoods (Miraflores and Barranco). Smaller cities and towns are perfectly safe to walk around alone day and night.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams aren’t super common but if you’re worried about getting ripped off, here’s a list of common travel scams to avoid .

If you’re doing any hiking, check the weather in advance and bring plenty of water. If you’re hiking to Machu Picchu, arrive early to adjust to the altitude. 3-5 days early can make all the difference!

If you experience an emergency, dial 011 for assistance. If you’re in one of the bigger cities, you can also seek out the tourism police.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Peru, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Peru Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Peru Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Peru travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Cusco

The 4 Best Tour Companies in Peru

Is Peru Safe to Visit?

How to Hike the Inca Trail

How to Turn Right at Machu Picchu and Find Atlantis

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The Cost of Travel in Peru: Full Details

Peru was my favorite country I visited in 2022. I had always dreamed of coming here but I never thought I’d fall in love as I did. With the cost of travel being low and the hikes being high (in altitude), Peru should be at the top of everyone’s bucket list.

We stayed in certain regions for longer than most others would. This is how we like to travel. It helps us really experience the place we are in.

Because of this, we were able to budget our trip better and our money went wasn’t running out as fast.

Table of Contents

Where is Peru Located?

Sitting as the 3rd largest country in South America, Peru is located between Ecuador and Chile on the west coast. They also share a border with Brazil, Bolivia, and Colombia.

Peru’s coastline stretches along the South Pacific Ocean for 2.4k kilometers. It is home to many different landscapes such as the Andes, beaches, highlands, and jungle.

Is Peru Expensive?

If we are comparing Peru to countries like Colombia and Mexico, then it is slightly more expensive. But both of those countries are some of the cheapest in the world.

The cost of living in Peru is very low, especially if you know what you’re doing.

Here is an example of a few items:

• A combo meal = around $19 soles or $4.89 USD
• 1 liter of milk = $4.86 soles or $1.27 USD
• 1 bottle of good wine = 35 Soles or $USD
• A month’s rent (furnished) in an expensive neighborhood costs $3,000 Soles per month or $790 USD
• A month’s rent (furnished) in a cheap neighborhood costs 1680 Soles per month or $440 USD

At the time of writing this blog, $1 USD = $3.8 soles. The up-to-date conversion can be found here .

The price hasn’t inflated that much since I’ve been. In fact, I was getting the same conversion as it is right now.

Budget Travel in Peru

When you are a backpacker or simply traveling on a budget, having a daily allowance is a good tip to follow. While the cost of travel to Peru is cheap, it could get out of hand fast if you’re not careful.

Backpacker Budget Daily Allowance: $30 – $35 USD = 114 – 133 soles

These numbers were based on:

• $10 hostel (that isn’t super low quality)
• $5 per meal for food
• ~$10 for activities

These prices can be much cheaper if you do a lot of free activities and cook for yourself. Purchasing food at local supermarkets helps a lot too.

Luxury Travel in Peru

With how diverse Peru is, you can really enjoy a multitude of different styles of activities on a big budget. Some of the most popular and also expensive activities are located in Peru.

The cost of traveling to Peru will increase drastically if you want to do guided on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu . Other activities like exploring the Amazon rainforest can start to add up.

Luxurious Traveler Budget Daily Allowance: $100 – $150 USD = $380 – $570 Soles

• $50 ($100 hotel split by 2)
• $10 on each meal
• ~$20 – $100 on activities

There are nice hotels for cheaper and always some deals. These prices are possible to fluctuate throughout the year.

Cost of Transportation in Peru

Peru is where I really took public transportation seriously. Because of this, it really helped us cut down on our cost to travel through Peru.

Busses from town to town are very easy to make and super cheap. While in Huaraz , we took many collectivos to the trailhead of our hike.

These collectivos cost us around 2 – 5 soles depending on where we were going in Huaraz. And around 20 soles for longer trips (~2 hours).

I took a plane once from Lima to Cusco because we were on limited time at that point. The plane ticket was around $45 but I also had to pay for a carry-on. The Lima to Cusco bus trip is one of the longest in the country but if you have time, it could be worth it.

All of these bus prices can be found using the website Redbus .

Below are some examples of bus ticket prices:

• Huaraz to Lima (7 hours): ~$15 USD
• Lima to Cusco (21 hours): ~$30 USD
• Lima to Huacachina (4.5 hours): ~$9 USD

Cost of Accommodation in Peru

Depending on where you’re located in Peru, the cost of accommodation can vary. There are some cheaper but more rugged hostels in Huaraz whereas there are some nicer ones in Cusco.

Even the part of town you are in Lima matters. Miraflores is a popular part of Lima to go to but it is one of the priciest areas as well.

Hostel Price in Peru: $7 – $14 USD = $26.6 to $53.2 Soles

Hotel Price in Peru:  ~$100 USD = $380 Soles (good quality)

Airbnb Price in Peru: ~$50 USD = $190 Soles

The Airbnb prices have the highest variance on where you’re at in Peru and at what time of the year. In Huaraz, it was very hard for us to find a good deal for an Airbnb that we actually wanted to stay at.

Cost of Food in Peru

During my time in Peru, I ate a variety of different meals. In my opinion, there were more cheap meals that caught my eye than in some of the other countries I visited in South America.

One of our go-to meals in Peru was Chaufa. This is a Peruvian-styled fried rice with polo or chicken in it normally. This normally costs somewhere between $4 to $6 USD.

If you are in touristy areas of Cusco, it is extremely easy to overspend on a meal. I was less likely to go to a fancy restaurant with a variety of meals at our disposal.

We also had street food multiple times while in Cusco. This consisted of meat (chicken or red meat) and a potato.

• Fast Food Combo Meal: $19 Soles or $5 USD
• Street Food: $10 soles or $2.5 USD
• Meal at a fancy restaurant: $40 soles or $10.50 USD

Cheap Activities to do in Peru

If you are not a hiker then I am sorry. A majority of activities on this list will involve hiking. Peru is a hiker’s paradise. Even if you don’t like to hike, you should still visit.

The best way to keep the cost of travel low in Peru is by doing cheap or free activities. The only costs during these days will be food from a grocery store/supermarket and transportation.

Some days we hiked for around 12 hours and only spent $10 USD in total. Below are some of the best activities throughout the country:

Hikes in Peru with Minimal Cost

• Laguna Paron
• Laguna Churup
• Wilcacocha Lake
• Laguna Llaca
• 2-day Hike to Laguna 69
• Laguna Ahuac
• Colca Canyon 3-day Trek

Completely Free Activities in Peru

• Mirador Hike in Huaraz
• Cristo Blanco Viewpoint
• Viewpoint Hike in Cajamarca
• Climb the Sand Dunes in Huacachina

Bonus Activity : Day Hike to Laguna Humantay

This hike will cost more in transportation than the other day hikes on this list but it is well worth it.

If you’re into history and decide to visit the lovely town of Arequipa, then I’d suggest visiting the Santa Catalina Monastery !

My Suggested Hiking Gear

Popular Activities to do in Peru

Peru is my favorite country in South America (so far) and I cannot wait until I can go back. There are so many acitivites still left to do. I know when I go back to Peru that the cost of travel will not have changed much. Some activities here are just plain better with a specialized tour guide. Below are some of the best tours you can do while down in Peru.

My Final Thoughts on the Cost of Travel in Peru

Peru may be slighly more expensive than Colombia, I think there is an arguement the other way. One of the biggest perks to travel in Peru and espeically Huaraz is how reliable their collectivos are. This really made the cost to travel throughout Peru way more enjoyable than I ever though it could be. I highly suggest you visit here if you are an avid hiker and love to budget travel.

Thank you for reading my guide on the cost of travel in Peru. I hope this blog has helped you create your own budget for when you travel out this way.

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Crossing the Border from Peru to Bolivia: American Requirements

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How much does it cost to travel peru.

Well congratulations!

Signs indicate that if you’re reading this post, you’re probably thinking about travelling to Peru and let me just start by saying you definitely should!

One of the South American giants, this country is a feast for travellers and while I certainly wouldn’t consider it off the beaten track, there’s still plenty of less or undiscovered gems to unearth in this dazzling diversity destination.

And when it comes to the costs of travelling Peru, this is a good yardstick to use too.

Yes there’s many well-trodden parts of Peru, like Machu Picchu, which unsurprisingly can be a little pricey to visit, but there’s also a lot of places where you can find some amazingly affordable travel experiences too.

And of course, there’s always cheaper ways to see the popular hot spots as well!

So read on to learn more about how much it costs to travel Peru and what your trip budget might shape up to be if you’re planning on visiting soon…

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• When is the Best Time to Visit Peru?
• 55 Best Things To Do in South America
• Top 21 Things to Do in Cusco… 9 of which are Free!

This budget is based on the trip I made to Peru in late 2019, with all prices correct at this time.

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

An Intro to this Peru Travel Budget

This budget is based exactly on my travels in this amazing country in late 2019, so you can trust it’s entirely authentic.

Obviously it involves travelling in Peru on a budget i.e. eating in cheap, local restaurants and staying at cheap local hostels, because I’m a budget travel blogger, yet it also includes some added extras, which perhaps might not be considered budget travel items, but which are incredibly worthwhile – such as some epic hiking trips, which you quite frankly can’t miss in Peru.

In terms of structure, I’m going to give you a breakdown of different travel categories so that, if you are travelling for longer or with a bit more / less cash, you can do your own workings about how much it might cost you to travel in Peru.

And then, at the end, we look at overall costs of what an average 2 week budget trip to Peru might set you back.

This budget won’t include the cost of any visas (although for Peru you probably won’t need one), nor the cost of international flights, (I always use Skyscanner to find the best deals) so don’t forget to factor those in as well.

The budget also doesn’t include prepping any gear you might need for your trip or taking out travel insurance.

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

And with that preamble out the way, let’s get on with answering the question about how much it costs to travel in Peru….

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#1 Accommodation

With Peru now well and truly on the traveller map, there really is every bracket of accommodation available here – from dorm beds in huge hostels to ritzy luxury hotels, especially in destinations like Cusco.

And as a budget traveller, there’s no prizes for guessing which end of the scale I inhabited!

But even with a mix of dorm beds and private rooms in hostels (with a bit of camping thrown in here and there), I wouldn’t consider Peru super cheap on the accommodation costs.

In fact, outside of hiking excursions, accommodation is one of biggest costs when you travel Peru because it’s a service aimed at the tourist market and therefore higher than any of the local services like food and transport.

In fact, accommodation accounted for around 25% of my total spend in the country (and yes I use a very geeky, but helpful app called TravelSpend to track this stuff!)

Accommodation in tourist hot spots such as Lima (where basically everyone passes through) or Cusco (where lots of travellers base themselves) tend to be higher than those in smaller villages or towns that receive fewer tourists.

As an example, I paid $10 USD for a dorm bed in Lima and $25 USD for a private room – not bad if you’re sharing the private room, but harder to stomach if you’re a solo traveller.

FYI. I highly recommend staying in the Barranco area of Lima (it’s def the best) and La Unsha Hostel there is great!

In smaller towns, such as Paracas on the coast or Pisac in the Sacred Valley, a private room set me back just $12 USD and a dorm was more like $7 USD.

Across the whole country, you can benchmark a dorm at between $6-11 USD and a budget private room at $12-$25 USD.

So choose your accommodation type, multiply this by the number of nights you’re planning to spend in Peru and you’ve got your rough accommodation budget mapped out!

And if you want to learn about some of the best hostels, then check this list of my recommended backpackers in Peru and my top picks for hostels in Cusco .

Standards of budget accommodation in Peru tend to be very good and most backpacker hostels are clean with good wifi, free breakfast and open-air communal areas.

One thing to watch out for is hot water (make sure they specifically say they have it) and kitchens – it’s often cheaper to eat out in Peru and the food is so delicious here why wouldn’t you!

When you’re out hiking in this country, camping is often the only option.

Most multi-day trekking tours provide tents and mattresses, but you’d be wise to bring your own sleeping bag and silk liner , otherwise you’ll have to hire one.

When it comes to your own gear, make sure it is suitable for cold, altitude conditions.

#2 Transport

The thing we have to remember about transport when we’re talking about how much it costs to travel in Peru, is how huge this country is!

15 hours on a bus and you barely scratch the surface of this giant nation.

Because of this, most people who only have a short time to visit usually stick to the south of the country exploring Lima, Arequipa, Cusco and their surrounds.

Nevertheless even sticking to just these destinations requires long journeys between them.

Long-Distance Buses

The cheapest way to do this is via an overnight bus service, which will save you the cost of a night’s accommodation.

Bus services tend to vary in Peru, based on price, but most are very affordable, especially if you avoid the tourist-geared services which offer more luxury. Compare prices here .

Cheaper companies are Oltursa, Civa and Movil, but if you’re travelling overnight you may consider the few extra dollars to take a luxury service a good investment… I certainly did!

Cruz Del Sur are one such luxury company, otherwise the excellent Peru Hop service is ideal for solo travellers, or those hitting up South America for the first time, with their guided bus services that offer great security and set routes that mean you have to organise less!

As a guide, here’s some bus prices for popular Peru journeys:

• Cruz Del Sur from Lima to Huaraz: $28 USD
• Oltursa from Lima to Arequipa: $28 USD
• SuperCiva from Arequipa to Cusco: $16 USD
• Peru Hop from Lima to Arequipa and onto Cusco with 7 stops included: $179 USD

If you’re short on time, or don’t fancy a long bus ride, then you can also use domestic flight services to get around Peru.

Obviously these will be more expensive and increase your carbon footprint, but they will be quicker.

Here’s some example flight prices in Peru:

• Lima to Cusco: $40 USD
• Arequipa to Lima: $35 USD

It’s worth noting that domestic flights in Peru (and neighbouring countries such as Bolivia and Chile) tend to offer quite good value for money, but that crossing international boundaries in the sky, tend to hike prices up significantly.

BUDGET TIP: If you’re travelling between different countries in South America therefore, it can often be cheaper to fly domestically, but cross borders by land.

Taxis & Collectivos

For small travel distances in Peru, such as within Lima, ride-sharing apps like Uber are the best way to go.

Ensuring you don’t get ripped off, as well as helping you navigate any language barriers, you can learn more about why I love ridesharing apps when I travel here .

You can expect to pay around $5 for an Uber ride in Lima between, say your hostel in Barranco / Miraflores and a centrally-located long-distance city bus station.

There’s also a metro in Lima it’s safe to use and here, like every other town in Peru, collectivos are in operation.

Collectivos are minivans used to travel short distances around cities or between villages and nearest towns.

They are incredibly cheap with most rides I took costing under $1 USD, and the best way to discover routes near where you’re staying is to ask at your accommodation reception desk.

#3 Tours & Activities

There’s no getting away from the vast quantities of tours and activities you can enjoy in Peru and the fact that there’s no point trying to cover them all – either in your trip or here in this article… the possibilities are just too endless!

So, to give you some ideas, I’m going to stick to some of the country’s greatest highlights giving you an idea of prices here, as well as some handy budget tips about how to do some of them cheaper:

• Half-Day Trip to Ballestas Islands aka the Poor (Wo)man’s Galapagos: $20 USD
• Sunset Sand Boarding Adventure in Huacachina: $13 USD
• Peruvian Cooking Class & Market Tour : $40 USD
• Day Trip to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco : $28 USD
• Day Trip from Lima to Ruins at Caral : $240 USD

Budget Alternative: Independent day drip to Pachacamac ruins: $15 USD. Learn more in my post about the best Lima day trips .

• Colca Canyon 1 Day Tour : $95 USD or Colca Canyon 3 Day Trek : $300 USD

Budget Alternative: Alternative 3 Day Colca Canyon Adventure with Le Foyer Hostel: $155 USD, or there’s a 2 Day option available for $105 USD.  And you can get a further 10% off these prices by emailing Hendry at Le Foyer Hostel in Arequipa at [email protected] and quoting BWSP ! Learn more about the amazing experience I had on my alternative Colca Canyon tour with Hendry in my post here .

• Sacred Valley Day Trip from Cusco : $39 USD

Budget Alternative: Take a few days to see the ruins and traditional towns in this area, which allows you to take in the ruins via public transport and without a guide, making it much cheaper. When it comes to spending the night, I recommend the towns of Ollantaytambo (stay at Mama Simona ) and Pisac (stay at Wolf Totem ).

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu from Cusco : $677 USD or the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco : $369 USD

Budget Alternative: Lose the crowds and the hefty price tag and get your big Cusco hike fix via the much more undiscovered Choquequirao Hike for around $250 USD. Heading to a set of ruins only currently accessible on foot (although they do plan to build a cable car to them, so get in quick!) this is a tough hike that you can even make without a guide if you have the camping gear and the stamina! Learn more in my post about my Choquequirao trek experience .

• Train to Machu Picchu from Cusco : $127 USD

Budget Alternative: Ditch the train and go for the option that takes you by bus to Hidroelectrica, from where you can walk to Aguas Calientes and then up to MP: $36 USD. Learn more in this post I wrote , or check out more details here .

And don’t forget, in all the major cities in Peru there’s free walking tours that will cost you just a few dollars in tips.

Plus, in so many areas of Peru there are trails, sights and markets you can enjoy for nothing.

#4 Entrance Fees & Guides

Entrance fees and guides can be hard to price up in Peru, because if you take a tour or a guided trek to many of the most popular ruins and sights, these will be included in the price.

See the above section on tours and activities for more deets.

Otherwise, if you take some of my budget alternative tips, it’s likely you’ll pay entrance fees yourself as you independently travel to different attractions.

Of course, there’s many free and cheap attractions in Peru, but for the big daddies you gotta cough up.

Here’s some examples:

• Entrance to Pachacama Ruins by Lima: $4 USD
• Hot Springs Entrance in Colca Canyon: $3 USD
• Santa Catalina Monastery Entrance in Arequipa: $12 USD
• Entrance to Inca Museum in Cusco: $2.50 USD
• Entrance to Choquequirao Ruins: $18 USD
• Entrance to Machu Pichu: $65 USD
• Cusco Tourist Ticket (10 days): $40 USD

This last option is a great money saver if you think you’ll be visiting a lot of the ruins around Cusco as it’s a combined entrance ticket that will save you money if you’re visiting just 2 or 3 sights including museums. It covers 16 sights in total, both in and around Cusco.

The 10 day option is good if you have a decent amount to explore all this city has to offer otherwise, there’s a couple of smaller circuit 1-2 day options too for $20 USD. Learn more about the Cusco Tourist Ticket here.

#5 Food & Drink

For those not in the know, I’ve got good news!

Peru is a foodie paradise and eating / drinking all the local goodness here is a huge part of your travel experience to come!

And if you eat locally, which you definitely should, then food and drink here is very affordable too.

Most hostels and hotels in Peru include breakfast in their prices.

While this is often a simple affair of cereal, fruit, yoghurt and toast, it’s an ample start to the day and one less meal to worry about.

When it comes to lunch, a fresh juice plus a sandwich in a local market will set you back just $1-3 USD, as will a good espresso coffee at a tourist café.

Supermarkets are plentiful in Peru and good value offering packets of nuts, seeds, crackers and other snacks that are good for hiking trips. They also sell big bottles of water.

The best value here is to buy a 5l bottle and then decant it into a smaller metal water bottle you carry with you during the day. This saves money and plastic waste.

Most supermarkets only offer dried goods however, so head to the great local markets to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables for just a few dollars.

Beers are cheap in Peru too, especially when bought in a store, or at a cheap local place, costing $1-2 each.

For dinner, if you eat in local cafes / restaurants, you can expect to pay around $5 USD for a good feed.

If you want to splash and out in a fairly decent restaurant in Peru however – which you can certainly do in Lima and Cusco – then prices start from around $12 USD including a drink

#6 Other Expenses

And finally when it comes to Peru travel costs, you’ve got to factor in all those other incidental expenses like laundry (once a week should do it) and possibly a SIM and data package too.

I used several different SIM cards while in Peru (I was there over 2 months so needed to mix it up), but as a benchmark, you’re looking at around $15 USD for a 30 day tourist card with around 10GB data .. yes I use a lot, it’s a work thing!

Laundry in Peru can normally be arranged through your hostel or at local laundromats in larger towns.

In general, you’ll pay by the kg, with an average weekly load costing around $3-4 USD.

Sometimes you can pay more for express services, which can be very handy if you only have a day or so between hikes and no clean socks!

2 Week Example Trip

I wanted to give an example trip at the end of this article about how much it costs to travel in Peru, so you can see in practice what you might need for a trip.

For this, I’ve chosen a 2 week backpacker trip for a solo traveller, based on my suggest Peru itinerary , which I think has you seeing the best parts of this huge country in a limited time.

Here’s what an example budget might look like…

• Total Accommodation in Dorm = $10 x 14 nights = $140 USD
• Total Transport Spend = $125 USD including 2 domestic flights, several taxi rides and some long-distance bus rides
• Total Tours and Activities = $280 USD including budget trips to the Colca Canyon, Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu.
• Total Entrance Fees & Guides = $110 USD
• Total Food and Drink spend inc. coffee and alcohol = $145 USD
• Other Expenses = $20 USD

The rough amount you can therefore expect to spend in Peru over a fortnight is around $820 USD.

This is roughly $55-60 USD per day, which is in the region of £40-45 GBP per day or 50-55 Euros.

Please remember this is based on a budget travel tier and will vary wildly depending on how many activities you do, whether you stay in dorms or private rooms and how much you eat and drink!

• You could cut this significantly by travelling only on buses (not domestic flights) or taking out a few large ticket items such as side trips to destinations around Cusco and Arequipa… although given these were some of my highlights in Peru, I’d think carefully about this!

Sometimes you’ve got to ask yourself what you’ll remember more – the few dollars saved or the amazing time you had!

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

And there it is guys, the full breakdown of my answer to the question – how much does it cost to travel Peru?

Do you think this is cheap or pricey?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for Lima Visit Lima on a Budget or Travel in Style

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• How much does it cost to travel to Lima? (Average Daily Cost)
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How much does it cost to travel to Lima?

You should plan to spend around $77 (S/.283) per day on your vacation in Lima. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $18 (S/.65) on meals
• $5.73 (S/.21) on local transportation
• $98 (S/.363) on hotels

A one week trip to Lima for two people costs, on average, $1,076 (S/.3,964) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 77 S/. 283
• One Week Per person $ 538 S/. 1,982
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,076 S/. 3,964
• One Month Per person $ 2,306 S/. 8,493
• One Week For a couple $ 1,076 S/. 3,964
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 2,152 S/. 7,927
• One Month For a couple $ 4,611 S/. 16,987

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Lima cost?

A one week trip to Lima usually costs around $538 (S/.1,982) for one person and $1,076 (S/.3,964) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Lima on average costs around $1,076 (S/.3,964) for one person and $2,152 (S/.7,927) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Lima will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Lima on average costs around $2,306 (S/.8,493) for one person and $4,611 (S/.16,987) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Lima has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Lima is a reasonably affordable place to visit. Located in Peru, which is a reasonably affordable country, visitors will appreciate the relatively low cost of this destination. It is in the top 25% of cities in the country for its overall travel expenses. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within South America, Lima is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Torres del Paine National Park or Buzios.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Lima Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Lima?

The average Lima trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Lima travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Lima

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Lima is $49 (S/.181). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Lima is $98 (S/.363). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 49 S/. 181
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 98 S/. 363

Hotel Prices in Lima

Looking for a hotel in Lima? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Lima based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $50. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Hotel Kingdom Lima Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 51
• Belmond Miraflores Park Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 306

Transportation Budget in Lima

The cost of a taxi ride in Lima is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $5.73 (S/.21) per person, per day, on local transportation in Lima.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 5.73 S/. 21

Recommended Services

• Transfer from Hotel/Airbnb Miraflores/San Isidro/Barranco to Airport Viator $ 18
• Lima Airport Arrival Transfer for small groups Viator $ 79

Flights to Lima

Rental cars in lima, what did other people spend on transportation in lima.

Typical prices for Transportation in Lima are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Lima, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Taxi Ride S/. 20
• Short Taxi Ride S/. 15

Food Budget in Lima

While meal prices in Lima can vary, the average cost of food in Lima is $18 (S/.65) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Lima should cost around $7.05 (S/.26) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Lima is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 18 S/. 65

Recommended

• Lima Vegan Peruvian Food Tour Viator $ 119
• Peruvian cooking class+local market included+exotic fruits with local chefs Viator $ 70

What did other people spend on Food in Lima?

Typical prices for Food in Lima are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Lima, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Lunch for Two S/. 16
• Ice cream S/. 13
• Coffee S/. 11
• Donut S/. 3.50

Entertainment Budget in Lima

Entertainment and activities in Lima typically cost an average of $8.66 (S/.32) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 8.66 S/. 32

Recommended Activities

• Customize your trip to Peru with Lima Experience Viator $ 12
• Lima Photo Day Tour Viator $ 150

What did other people spend on Entertainment in Lima?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Lima are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Lima, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Entrance to Museo Larco (for 2) S/. 60
• Movie Tickets S/. 8.50

Tips and Handouts Budget in Lima

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Lima is $2.62 (S/.9.64) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Lima is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 2.62 S/. 9.64

Alcohol Budget in Lima

The average person spends about $5.63 (S/.21) on alcoholic beverages in Lima per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 5.63 S/. 21
• Gin and Rum Distillery Tour Viator $ 12
• Party tour in Miraflores with Bar Crawl Lima Viator $ 20

What did other people spend on Alcohol in Lima?

Typical prices for Alcohol in Lima are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Lima, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Bottle of Wine S/. 27
• Beer S/. 15
• Cocktail S/. 12

Water Budget in Lima

On average, people spend $1.37 (S/.5.05) on bottled water in Lima per day. The public water in Lima is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 1.37 S/. 5.05

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How much does it cost to travel to Peru?

Like most South American countries, Peru won’t break the budget like a trip to Europe or the United States would. And over the past few years, the cost has increased greatly and is not as reasonable as before. But still, Peru remains one of the most interesting and inexpensive countries you will ever visit. That is why together with Machu Travel Peru we made a small article about the cost of traveling in Peru. With something for the budget traveler as well as the luxury traveler. But how much money do I need for a trip to Peru? That will largely depend on how you want to spend your vacation in Peru. Whether you are looking to stay in quality accommodations or looking to stay in cheaper options.

When traveling to Peru you will enter the country in the city of Lima, the capital. The city has gotten a bad rap in previous years for being somewhat dirty and dangerous. But in recent years, the city has undergone a change and is now known for having some of the best Peruvian food restaurants. So you should not miss a wonderful full-day tour in the “City of Kings” . Where you will have the opportunity to know many attractions and important historical buildings . Also, a basic meal or menu, as they are known, will cost you around the US $ 5. Where you will get soup, a main dish, and a drink. This will keep you active throughout the day. This is a good reason to include Lima in your Peru travel itinerary.

Everything you need to know about the cost of traveling in Peru

• Airplane tickets
• Bus tickets
• Train tickets
• Hotels and resorts
• Tours around Peru
• Destinations to visit
• Shopping in the country
• Security Measures

AIRPLANE TICKETS

The Peru travel cost will be largely defined by the way you travel . Either by bus or by plane. But the prices of local flights in Peru are not too high, and in some cases, they are comparable to bus trips. From Lima, you can fly all over the country with many different airlines offering services at many different prices. For example, a flight from Lima to the Inca city of Cusco can cost from around US$90 to US$150 for a one-way flight. This is one of the best choices for travel. If you take one of the cut-price airlines, you may pay less.

But keep in mind that budget airlines may have delays or cancellations without prior notice. So we recommend taking advantage of available offers or simply booking your tickets in advance . Also keep in mind that not all destinations in Peru have direct flights, so you will have to think about getting air tickets.

BUS TICKETS

Peru has a great network of intercity buses and depending on the service, you can catch a bus from Cusco to Puno, where Lake Titicaca is located, for around US$30 per person on a luxury bus with lunch and your own personal television. Fortunately, the bus is the main way to travel for both Peruvians and those travelers on a budget . And there are a wide variety of transportation companies that offer interprovincial services. So much so that you will find a lot of competition in the sector and a great variety of different prices. But we always recommend being guided by those renowned companies. In this way, you will avoid any kind of inconvenience. The Peru travel cost can be much better if you choose to transport yourself through Peru by bus.

TRAIN TICKETS

Train travel in Peru is one of the highlights of every tour to Peru . Peru has some of the best train journeys in the world. For train lovers and non-train lovers, there is a train trip for you. Travel to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in the tourist train or the super-luxury Hiram Bingham train that travels daily to Machu Picchu. If you are interested in the Hiram Bingham then the round trip will cost around US$800 per person. But luxury trains can add considerably to the Machu Picchu trip cost .

Or you can also opt for a charming train ride from Cusco to Puno, where you will enjoy some wonderful natural landscapes. This train trip is one of the best in Peru and one of the best ways to get to know Lake Titicaca. As with the train trip to Machu Picchu, it is necessary to book this trip in advance if you want not to miss out on the fun. It is true that these train trips can increase the Peru travel cost, but they will make your experience much more magical .

HOTELS AND RESORTS

Accommodation is another expense to take into account within the Peru travel cost . Peru has a wide range of accommodation options, both luxury hotels and alternatives for backpackers. If you are a backpacker looking for cheap rooms, you will find rooms starting at around $ 5 per person per night. And if you are looking for the best cheap hotels, these will cost you around $ 20 per person per night.

There are many 3-star mid-range hotels to choose from throughout Peru. A basic three-star hotel will cost you around $ 20 per person per night, while a better three-star hotel will cost more, around $ 30 per person. Going luxury in Peru is affordable with good 4 to 5-star hotels costing between $ 80 and $ 200 per person per night. Some of the best hotels, especially in Cusco, are in old Spanish colonial houses that have been refurbished . And some of these even have wonderful art collections.

Another important thing to keep in mind is the best time to visit Peru . Since depending on the time you choose to travel, prices will change a lot . For example, in the high season of tourism, it is very likely that you will not find accommodations without having made reservations. But on the other hand, if you travel in the low tourist season, you will enjoy lower prices and immediate availability.

TOURS AROUND PERU

Peru tours are a truly important factor to take into account for the Peru travel cost . You don’t want to miss out on the most attractive side of our country. While in Peru, you will be interested in some travel tours in Peru. There is a big number of tours to choose from in all areas of Peru. In the Southern Peruvian city of Arequipa, you might consider taking a 2-day excursion to the naturally spectacular Colca Canyon. If you have not heard of the Canyon, it is one of the deepest in the world and the views are memorable . See the Condor in full flight as they soar above your head, not afraid of humans that are viewing them from the edge of the Canyon. A 2-day tour without a hotel could cost anything from $80 to $200 per person.

Or also opt for the boat tours inside Lake Titicaca, where you will get to know the wonders of our Andean culture . And if that is not enough, get to know Lima and its distinguished traditional cuisine in its inexhaustible quality restaurants. And finally, do not forget the unique tour of Machu Picchu. Where you can get to know one of the wonders of the world and one of the main attractions of Peru. And don’t worry, as there are numerous Machu Picchu tours to enjoy. From options with train travel, options that include a beautiful hiking trek like the Inca Trail, and much more! And what is the minimum cost of the trip to Machu Picchu? That largely depends on whether you are looking to travel by train or go the Inca Trail. But you can expect to pay in the range of $ 300 to $ 500.

DESTINATIONSTO VISIT

Also in the South of Peru, you’ll find the lakeside town of Puno. Set high in the Peruvian Andes, Puno is on the shores of Lake Titicaca, one of the highest lakes in the world . From Puno, you can experience the Uros Islands. What makes these islands so special is that they are manmade from the reeds that grow around the shores of the lake. The Uros people have lived on the lake for centuries and continue to be semi self-sufficient. A day tour to these islands will cost you around $40 per person. One of the best tourist sites in Peru .

From Lima, travel down the South coast and inland and see the mysterious Nazca Lines . These lines were etched into the desert floor many centuries ago and still, today are a mystery to scientists. The best way to get a great view of the lines is by small aircraft that will take you on a 40-minute flight over the lines. The cost varies a great deal and can be expensive but you should set aside around $200 for the flight. This will affect the Peru travel cost.

Cusco and Machu Picchu are at the top of most people’s list of places to visit . Cusco has many Inca temples in and around the city that you simply must experience. Not far from the city you can find the naturally beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Valley is set among the Andes and the temperature is mild. For this reason, the Inca used the Valley to grow all their food to feed the empire. From the valley travel to Machu Picchu where a full-day trip from Cusco will cost you from $250 to $1000, depending on the service you require.

SHOPPINGIN THE COUNTRY

Shopping in Peru can be a highlight, there is much to buy in the many shops and markets located all over Peru . Depending on your spending habits, you may spend a little or you may take home many different Peruvian souvenirs . We recommend going through the different markets of Peru and buying many alpaca products, which is one of the strengths of Peru. We also recommend checking out the different Peruvian-themed products. From key chains, backpacks, mugs, shirts, other clothing products, and much more! The truth is that you will find an endless number of interesting products to take with you to your home.

SECURITY MEASURES

Another important factor to consider for the Peru travel cost would be the security measures that you will take. And while it is true that Peru is a third-world country, it is not as dangerous as people think . It will simply be a matter of being sensible and not exposing yourself in dark alleys or walking alone at night. And is Peru expensive to visit? No, it is not, compared to other European countries, Peru is still quite accessible. Peru’s security is not too different from any other city or destination in the world. Try not to carry your valuables in plain sight, always carry a copy of your credit card with you, and don’t carry too much cash with you. As long as you keep these tips in mind, you will have a wonderful time with your family.

“TRAVEL IS THE ONLY THING YOU BUY THAT MAKES YOU RICHER“

So, Is it worth it to go to Peru? Yes, it is. It’s one of the best tourist countries in South America. And as you will see, the cost of traveling in Peru will be reflected by numerous and diverse factors. From how you want to enjoy your vacations and the days you will seek to stay. In addition to which tours you will seek to enjoy and which destinations to include. There are many things to think about and consider when it comes to Peru travel costs. For this reason, together with Machu Travel Peru , we recommend that you start organizing yourself right now.

We hope that this little article has been of help to you since for us it is a pleasure to show you about our wonderful country. If you want to know more about our tours, you can consult with our qualified advisors. They will be happy to help you with your wonderful dream trip. Don’t miss out on Peru for anything in the world!

Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it . Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one!

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How Much Is A 7-Day Trip To Peru Cost

Published: November 17, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Lani Barden

• Budget Travel
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Peru, a vibrant country known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and fascinating culture. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or a nature lover, Peru has something to offer for everyone. From exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to marveling at the beauty of the Amazon rainforest, a 7-day trip to Peru is sure to be a memorable experience.

Before embarking on your journey, it’s important to have an idea of how much you can expect to spend during your stay in Peru. In this article, we will break down the costs of a 7-day trip to Peru, including flight costs, accommodation, transportation, food and drinks, sightseeing activities, and miscellaneous expenses. This will help you plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your time in this amazing country.

Peru offers a range of options when it comes to flights, accommodations, and activities, catering to different budgets and preferences. By understanding the average costs associated with each aspect of your trip, you can make informed decisions and optimize your spending.

Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or looking for a luxurious getaway, Peru has options that suit every traveler’s needs. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the details and discover how much a 7-day trip to Peru might cost you.

Flight Costs

When planning a trip to Peru, one of the most significant expenses is the cost of flights. The price of your flight will depend on various factors such as the time of year, your departure location, and the airline you choose.

Peru has major international airports in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, with Lima being the main gateway for international travelers. The cost of a round-trip flight to Lima from North America or Europe can range from $500 to $1500, depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Keep in mind that prices tend to be higher during peak travel seasons, such as summer or around the holidays.

If you plan to explore other parts of Peru, such as Machu Picchu or the Amazon rainforest, you may need to book additional domestic flights. Domestic flights within Peru are relatively affordable, with prices ranging from $50 to $200 for a one-way ticket, depending on the distance and the airline.

To get the best deals on flights, it’s recommended to book early and be flexible with your travel dates. Additionally, consider subscribing to airline newsletters or using flight comparison websites to stay updated on any promotions or discounts.

Remember to factor in any baggage fees, as they can vary depending on the airline and the type of ticket you purchase. Some airlines include checked baggage as part of the ticket price, while others may charge an additional fee.

Overall, flight costs can make up a significant portion of your total expenses for a 7-day trip to Peru. It is advisable to allocate a reasonable budget for flights and explore different options to find the best deals that suit your travel needs and budget.

Accommodation Costs

When it comes to accommodation in Peru, you have a variety of options to choose from, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The cost of accommodation will depend on your preferences, location, and the level of comfort you desire.

In major cities like Lima and Cusco, you can find a range of accommodations to suit different budgets. A budget traveler can expect to pay around $10 to $30 per night for a dorm bed in a hostel, while a mid-range hotel room will cost between $40 and $80 per night. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, high-end hotels can cost upwards of $150 per night.

If you plan to explore more remote areas or stay in eco-lodges in the Amazon rainforest, accommodation prices can vary significantly. In these cases, it’s best to do thorough research and book in advance to secure the best rates.

It’s worth noting that prices can fluctuate depending on the season and demand, so it’s advisable to book accommodation as early as possible to get the best rates. Additionally, consider checking online travel platforms and hotel booking websites for any deals or discounts.

Another cost-effective option for accommodation in Peru is staying in homestays or guesthouses, where you can experience the local culture and interact with friendly hosts. These options are not only more affordable but also offer a unique and authentic experience.

Overall, depending on your preferences and comfort level, accommodation costs for a 7-day trip to Peru can range from $70 for a budget traveler to several hundred dollars for a more luxurious stay. It’s important to factor in your accommodation preferences when budgeting for your trip to Peru.

Transportation Costs

Getting around Peru during your 7-day trip can involve various modes of transportation, including domestic flights, buses, taxis, and trains. The cost of transportation will depend on the distance you need to cover and the mode of transportation you choose.

If you plan to explore multiple cities in Peru, domestic flights may be necessary. As mentioned earlier, domestic flights within Peru can range from $50 to $200 for a one-way ticket, depending on the distance and the airline. It’s important to factor in these costs when planning your itinerary.

Many travelers opt to use buses as a cost-effective means of transportation in Peru. The bus network in Peru is extensive, and fares can vary depending on the distance and the level of comfort you prefer. For shorter journeys, such as from Lima to Cusco, bus fares can range from $15 to $30. For longer distances, such as from Lima to Arequipa, expect to pay around $40 to $60.

Taxis are readily available in most cities and can offer a convenient way to get around. It’s important to negotiate the fare beforehand or use reputable taxi services to avoid overcharging. A short taxi ride within a city can cost between $3 to $5, while longer distances may cost around $10 to $20.

If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, you have the option of taking a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu. Train fares can range from $70 to $150, depending on the class and the season. It’s recommended to book your train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Within cities, you can also make use of public transportation, such as buses or the Lima Metro in Lima. Bus fares in cities generally range from $0.30 to $0.50, making it an affordable option for getting around.

Overall, transportation costs can vary depending on the distance you need to cover and the mode of transportation you choose. Allocating a budget for transportation is essential when planning your 7-day trip to Peru.

Food and Drink Costs

Peru is renowned for its delicious and diverse culinary offerings, ranging from traditional Peruvian dishes to international cuisine. Exploring the local food scene can be a delightful experience during your 7-day trip.

The cost of food and drinks in Peru can vary depending on where you choose to eat. In local markets and small eateries, you can find affordable meals starting from $5. These places often serve traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos.

If you prefer a sit-down restaurant or want to try upscale dining, the prices can range from $15 to $40 per meal. Lima, in particular, offers a wide range of fine dining options, with some of its restaurants being recognized as some of the best in the world.

It’s important to note that prices can be higher in touristy areas, so it’s advisable to venture away from the main tourist spots for more affordable options. Additionally, indulging in street food can be a great way to experience the local flavors at a lower cost.

When it comes to drinks, local specialties like pisco sour and chicha morada are worth trying. A glass of beer or a bottle of mineral water can cost around $2, while cocktails and imported alcoholic beverages can range from $5 to $10.

As for budgeting for food and drink expenses, it’s recommended to allocate around $30 to $40 per day per person. This should cover three meals and drinks, considering a mix of local eateries and slightly upscale dining.

Remember to also budget for gratuities, as tipping is customary in restaurants and for good service. A general guideline is to tip around 10% of the bill.

Overall, food and drink costs in Peru can be quite reasonable, especially if you’re willing to explore local options. Enjoying the country’s culinary delights is an essential part of your 7-day trip to Peru.

Sightseeing and Activity Costs

Peru is a treasure trove of incredible sights and activities, offering a range of experiences that cater to different interests. From exploring ancient ruins to hiking through breathtaking landscapes, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and natural beauty.

One of the must-visit destinations in Peru is Machu Picchu. The entrance fee to Machu Picchu can range from $40 to $70, depending on whether you want to include additional attractions like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, as there is a daily limit on the number of visitors allowed.

If you plan to hike the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you will need to book a guided tour. The cost of an Inca Trail trek can range from $500 to $1000, depending on the package, duration, and the level of service provided.

In addition to Machu Picchu, there are other archaeological sites worth visiting, such as the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Sacsayhuaman, and Ollantaytambo. Entrance fees to these sites can vary from $5 to $15.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Amazon rainforest or the Colca Canyon is highly recommended. The cost of guided tours and accommodations in these areas will vary depending on the duration and level of luxury. On average, a 3-4 day Amazon rainforest tour can cost around $300 to $500, while a visit to the Colca Canyon can range from $50 to $100 for a one-day tour.

When it comes to activities like paragliding, surfing, or sandboarding, prices can vary depending on the location and the operator. Paragliding in Lima, for example, can cost around $60 to $80 per person.

It’s important to research and compare prices for guided tours and activities to find the best deals. Additionally, consider the cost of transportation and any additional fees or permits that may be required for certain activities.

Overall, it’s advisable to allocate a budget for sightseeing and activities, as they can significantly enhance your experience in Peru. Depending on the activities you choose, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $500 for sightseeing and adventure activities during your 7-day trip.

Miscellaneous Expenses

There are some additional expenses that should be taken into account when planning your 7-day trip to Peru. These miscellaneous expenses can vary depending on your personal preferences and circumstances.

Firstly, travel insurance is an important consideration. While it is not mandatory, having travel insurance can provide you with peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances. The cost of travel insurance will depend on factors such as your age, the duration of your trip, and the coverage you choose.

Another expense to consider is visa fees. The visa requirements for Peru vary depending on your nationality. Some travelers may be able to enter Peru visa-free, while others may need to obtain a visa in advance. It’s essential to check the visa requirements for your specific situation and budget for any applicable fees.

If you plan to do any shopping or souvenirs, it’s advisable to allocate a budget for it. Peru is famous for its traditional crafts and textiles, so you may find yourself tempted by the beautiful handmade items available in markets and artisan shops.

Additionally, if you plan to visit museums, archaeological sites, or participate in certain activities, there may be additional fees involved. For example, some museums in Lima may charge entrance fees ranging from $3 to $10.

It’s also a good idea to set aside some money for unforeseen expenses, such as tips, emergencies, or transportation delays. Having a buffer in your budget can ensure you are prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise during your trip.

Overall, miscellaneous expenses can vary greatly depending on your individual circumstances and preferences. It’s important to factor in these additional expenses when budgeting for your 7-day trip to Peru to ensure you have a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

Total Cost of a 7-Day Trip to Peru

Now that we have explored the various expenses involved in a 7-day trip to Peru, let’s summarize the total cost. It’s important to note that the total cost will vary depending on your travel style, preferences, and the level of comfort you desire. However, we can provide a rough estimate to give you an idea of how much you can expect to spend.

Flight costs will likely be one of the most significant expenses, ranging from $500 to $1500 for international round-trip flights to Lima. Domestic flights within Peru can cost between $50 and $200 for one-way tickets.

Accommodation costs can vary depending on your preferences, with budget options starting from $10 to $30 per night in hostels, mid-range hotels ranging from $40 to $80 per night, and luxury hotels costing upwards of $150 per night.

Transportation costs will depend on the distances you need to cover. Domestic flights can range from $50 to $200, bus fares from $15 to $60, and taxi rides within cities from $3 to $20.

Food and drink expenses can vary, but allocating around $30 to $40 per day per person should cover meals and drinks at a mix of local eateries and affordable restaurants.

Sightseeing and activity costs will depend on the attractions and activities you choose. Entrance fees to Machu Picchu can range from $40 to $70, Inca Trail treks can range from $500 to $1000, and guided tours to the Amazon rainforest can cost around $300 to $500.

Lastly, miscellaneous expenses such as travel insurance, visa fees, shopping, and unforeseen expenses should also be factored into your budget.

Based on these estimates, a rough total cost for a 7-day trip to Peru can range from $1500 to $4000 per person, excluding international flights. This is a broad estimate and it’s important to do thorough research, compare prices, and tailor your budget according to your preferences and travel plans.

Remember to set aside some extra money for souvenirs, tips, and emergencies. Having a contingency fund will ensure you are prepared for any unexpected expenses that may arise during your trip.

By planning ahead and budgeting wisely, you can have a memorable and enjoyable 7-day trip to Peru without breaking the bank. Safe travels and enjoy exploring all that Peru has to offer!

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Explore our selection of Peru tours and find your perfect itinerary. Come to Peru to discover a mystical land with ancient citadels, coastal metropolises, enchanted lakes, bellowing canyons, top-notch hotels, and world-renowned gastronomy. You can see the Amazon Rainforest, the Pacific Ocean, the Andes Mountains, and some of the most revered ruins in the world like Machu Picchu all in one trip. Visit one of the most fascinating countries on the planet with local guides and first-rate accommodations, and cross some top destinations off your bucket list!

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What to see at machu picchu.

Discover Peru’s most emblematic landmark, the “Lost City of the Incas”. You’ll learn about the history, Incan mythology, and the mystery that surrounds this breathtaking Inca ruin atop the mountains: Machu Picchu.

Huayna Picchu

Hike to the top of Huayna Picchu for extraordinary views of Machu Picchu as well as the chance to visit an extra set of ruins on the way. Entrance tickets for Huayna Picchu are limited, so be sure to reserve yours in advance.

Machu Picchu Mountain

Another popular hiking option, Machu Picchu Mountain offers incredible panoramic views of the ruins and the surrounding Andes Mountains. Like Huayna Picchu, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu Mountain are limited so be sure to reserve yours in advance.

The iconic Sun Gate (called Inti Punku in Quechua) is the entrance through which Inca Trail hikers enter the Machu Picchu citadel. It is also possible to visit this attraction as an additional hike for those visiting Machu Picchu on a day trip.

One of the first attractions you’ll visit on your Machu Picchu tour, the Guardhouse (also known as the House of the Guardians or Guardian’s hut) was once used by sentinels watching over the citadel, but nowadays it makes a great spot for sweeping panoramic photos of the ruins.

Sacred Rock

The enormous Sacred Rock (also called a Wank’a in Quechua) bears a striking resemblance to the mountain peaks behind it, and is considered a powerful spiritual symbol of Machu Picchu.

Temple of The Three Windows

One of Machu Picchu’s most iconic places, the Temple of the Three Windows overlooks the Sacred Plaza and consists of three windows in the typical Incan trapezoidal style.

Inca Bridge

A popular additional hiking destination inside Machu Picchu, The Inca Bridge (Puente Inca) is a thin wooden plank crossing a mile-high precipice found at the end of a narrow stone pathway. Designed as a secret exit, its precarious nature helped to limit access to the citadel.

Temple of the Condor

This natural rock formation which was carved by the Incas into the shape of an Andean condor was an object of worship and represents one of the most striking examples of Inca stonemasonry.

“Stairway of Fountains”

The engineering ingenuity of the Incas can be seen in the 16 fountains built within the Machu Picchu citadel. Likely used by the residents of Machu Picchu, these Incan water fountains still flow with water sourced from a spring near the Sun Gate or Inti Punku.

Temple of the Sun

The Temple of the Sun is a semicircular ruin within the Machu Pichu citadel. This site was one of the most sacred temples within the fortress. The trapezoid window is positioned so that on the winter solstice (June 21st), the sun’s rays shine directly into the temple.

Temple of the Moon

You’ll have to hike Huayna Picchu mountain, within the Machu Picchu citadel, to see the Temple of the Moon. This shadowy temple contains a throne carved into the stone and was used only by the Inca priests for ceremonial purposes.

Intihuatana

The famous Intihuatana, whose Quechua name is often translated to English as “The Hitching Post of the Sun,” is a carved stone which is thought to have possibly been used as a type of sundial.

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7 Day Peru Tour from Lima to Cusco

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Starting in the gastronomic capital of Lima, sip Pisco Sours and admire colonial casas before heading to the rugged beauty of the Sacred Valley. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas as you admire one of the New Wonders of the World rising above the clouds, then finish your trip in ancient Cusco. Keen to stay longer? Extend your trip with a visit to Lake Titicaca.

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7 Day Peru Tour from Lima to Cusco.

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Included sightseeing.

Explore the "City of the Kings" and see the Cathedral, Government Palace, Archbishop's Palace, City Hall and visit San Francisco Monastery, famous for its catacombs

Machu Picchu

Journey to the marvelous citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World

Discover Sacsayhuaman, Coricancha and the famous San Pedro market before enjoying a magical evening featuring an entertaining folklore show

Sacred Valley

Visit the famous Pisac Market where local indigenous communities sell their wares and produce. Learn how to prepare the local empanada. Take a train expedition to Machu Picchu. Visit the workshop of local pottery artist Pablo Seminario

Visit the famous Pisac Market where local indigenous communities sell their wares and produce. Visit the workshop at Mrs. Ernestina’s Empanada Shop, a family business since 4 generations and learn how to make empanadas before getting a taste.

Temple of the Sun

Visit Coricancha, or the 'Temple of the Sun', the most important temple in the Incan Empire

Machu Picchu: Visit Coricancha, or the 'Temple of the Sun', the most important temple in the Incan Empire.

Feast on an authentic meal at Asnapa restaurant

 Visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, a UNESCO world heritage site

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Nude cruise to set sail from Florida next year: Here are the starting costs, itinerary

The "Big Nude Boat" cruise, which allows passengers to bare all − yes, even at the buffet − is set to sail from Florida next year.

The "11-day adventure" to the Caribbean is set for the first two weeks of February on the Norwegian Pearl, according to the Bare Necessities Tour & Travel website.

"Bare Necessities’ newest nude cruise is a private island double-dip with a brand new travel partner!" the company wrote on its website.

The trip which embarks from Miami, includes "an exclusive visit to an idyllic private island" in The Bahamas as well a another exclusive stop on the way back to the Port of Miami.

"Two opportunities to enjoy a new slice of Bare-adise, coupled with a beautiful selection of Eastern Caribbean island stops, will make this a can’t miss Big Nude Boat experience," the travel company posted.

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Big Nude Boat cruise sailing dates and destinations:

The ship departs from the Port of Miami on Feb. 3 and returns to the same port on Feb. 14.

The itinerary includes stops at the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.

How much does the Big Nude Boat cruise cost?

Rates for an inside cabin start at $2,000 per person.

They stretch as high as $33,155 for the top room on the ship: a Haven three-bedroom garden villa.

Laws of the land (and sea)

Guests are encouraged to park their bare behinds on towels provided on board in areas including the pool deck and the buffet area, according to the website.

"Passengers can easily follow our rule on nudist etiquette by always placing a towel down before sitting," it reads. "Remember to pack a swimsuit; not all excursions are clothing optional."

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.

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Here’s where to vacation in the U.S. without breaking the bank

If you’re looking for a dream getaway that won’t empty your savings account, the United States is brimming with affordable gems waiting to be explored. OptimosTravel has taken the guesswork out of finding these budget friendly hot spots by releasing its latest list of the most affordable vacation destinations in the country.

The company analyzed more than 100 popular vacation spots based on meals, transportation, accommodations and attraction fees. The results? A treasure trove of travel ideas.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cate Schweitzer | Based in the Carolinas 🏕️🐾 (@catescompass)

Topping the list was the Outer Banks in North Carolina, where the daily cost per person was $177.

“We ranked Outer Banks as the least expensive destination, where the allure of the Atlantic meets affordability,” the company shared in a news release . “With the lowest accommodation costs at $91.44, combined with meals at $60 and attractions adding up to $11.27, the daily cost per person stands at a mere $177. A week-long stay here amounts to $1,237.024 per person, making it an irresistible offer for a family of four at just $3,247.90, proving that paradise doesn’t have to cost a fortune.”

Hot on its heels was Charleston, West Virginia. This small town boasts myriad activities to enjoy for less than $180 per day. Notably, Charleston houses the West Virginia State Museum , a treasure trove of history, culture and art. As one Redditor put it, “I would beg my dad to go when we would visit family.”

Georgia boasts two affordable treasures on the list: Helen and Tybee Island, ranking third and fourth, respectively. These picturesque towns provide a delightful mix of natural beauty and exciting attractions for the whole family that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Rounding out the top five was Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a gateway to the majestic Great Smoky Mountains. With its stunning scenery, pleasant downtown and friendly atmosphere, Gatlinburg proves unforgettable experiences can come at an affordable price, according to OptimosTravel.

These top budget friendly destinations provide many reasons to pack your bags, hit the road and make memories.

About the Author

Avery Newmark covers travel, health, events and trending news for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With a dual background in film production and journalism, Avery came to the AJC after working as a video editor. She enjoys film photography and live music in her free time. Reach her at [email protected].

Credit: Miguel Martinez

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