Peru is one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in South America. With stunning landscapes, rich culture, and ancient history, it’s no surprise that it attracts a lot of travelers. The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune to explore it. Let’s talk about how you can travel through Peru on a budget and still have an unforgettable experience.
Accommodations in Peru: How to Save
Finding affordable accommodations in Peru is easy. The best option for budget travelers is staying in hostels. You can find great ones for as little as $8-15 USD per night. Many hostels offer free Wi-Fi, and some even include breakfast.
Did you know that you can get up to 40% cheaper prices on flight and hotel bookings by using a VPN? Try NordVPN today! They offer a free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee!
If you’re not into hostels, consider booking private rooms at guesthouses or budget hotels. A basic room with a private bathroom can range from $20-30 per night, depending on the city.
Consider Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is another great way to save on accommodation. Many locals in Peru are welcoming and are happy to host travelers for free. While Couchsurfing does not guarantee luxury, it’s perfect for meeting new people and getting a local’s perspective on the city. Make sure to book and communicate with hosts ahead of time.
Use Airbnb for Long-Term Stays
If you’re staying in one city for a while, Airbnb is a good choice. You can rent entire apartments for longer stays, which can save you money on meals because you’ll have a kitchen. Weekly and monthly discounts are often available, so take advantage of those if you can.
Food: Eating Cheap in Peru
Peruvian food is amazing, and you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy it. Street food and local markets are your best friends when it comes to eating cheaply in Peru.
Eat at Local Markets
Small “comedor” stalls at local markets serve affordable, filling meals. For $2-5 USD, you can enjoy a full meal that often includes soup, a main dish, and a drink. Popular markets like San Pedro Market in Cusco or the Mercado Central in Lima have plenty of options.
Try Street Food
Street food is another way to save money on meals. You’ll find vendors everywhere selling empanadas, tamales, anticuchos (beef heart skewers), and papa rellena (stuffed potatoes). Most items will cost you $1-3 USD. Always make sure the stall looks clean to avoid any stomach issues.
Skip the Fancy Restaurants
While Peru is home to some world-class restaurants, it’s best to avoid these if you’re on a budget. Stick to the smaller, family-owned eateries called “menu del dia” where you can get a set meal for around $3-5 USD. You won’t have gourmet food, but it’ll still be delicious and hearty. Try dishes like lomo saltado and aji de gallina.
Transportation: Getting Around on a Budget
Peru has reasonably priced public transportation. Whether you’re traveling across cities or within them, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to get around.
Use Public Buses
Intercity buses are the cheapest way to travel between cities. Companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Tepsa are reputable and offer comfortable rides. For long-distance trips, you can get an overnight bus and save on a night’s accommodation. Tickets will range from $10-30 USD depending on how far you are traveling.
Avoid Flying if Possible
Domestic flights in Peru can be expensive, especially if you book last minute. If you’re traveling between cities that aren’t too far apart, buses will always be cheaper. If you must fly, book in advance and try budget airlines like Sky Airlines or Viva Air.
Get Around Cities by Taxi or Collectivos
Within cities, use local transportation like buses or shared minivans called “collectivos.” They’re cheap and go almost everywhere for under $1 USD. Avoid taxis when possible, but if you must take one, use apps like Easy Taxi or Uber, which will help you get fair prices.
Activities and Attractions: Saving on Sightseeing
Peru is filled with amazing things to see and do, and many of them won’t cost you much. Here are some tips for saving money on attractions and activities.
Visit Free or Cheap Museums
Many museums in Peru offer free or discounted entrance. Sundays are often free for Peruvian citizens, but tourists can benefit from this in certain locations. For example, many museums in Lima have a small entrance fee ranging from $1-5 USD. Check ahead for free museum days!
Don’t Miss the Free Walking Tours
Almost every major city in Peru offers free walking tours. These are perfect for budget travelers who want to learn about the history and culture of a city. Just remember to tip the guide at the end (around $5 USD is standard).
Explore Peru’s Nature for Free
One of the best things about Peru is its nature. Hiking is free in many locations, and there are countless trails where you can see some of the country’s stunning landscapes without paying a penny. The best example is the Rainbow Mountain near Cusco, which you can hike at your own pace.
Machu Picchu: Making It Affordable
Machu Picchu is Peru’s most famous site, and while it can be pricey, there are ways to visit without blowing your budget.
Do the Classic Inca Trail Yourself
Many people opt for guided tours of the Inca Trail, but you can also do it yourself if you book in advance and get a permit. You’ll need to carry your own gear, but it will save you money.
Take the Train to Aguas Calientes
The easiest and cheapest way to reach Machu Picchu is by taking the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and hiking or taking the bus up. Tickets can be as low as $70-100 USD if you book in advance. You can also save money by hiking up to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes instead of taking the bus.
Consider the Alternative Treks
If the Inca Trail is too expensive or permits are sold out, there are alternative treks like the Salkantay Trek or the Lares Trek. They are often much cheaper and less crowded. Depending on your route, these treks can cost $150-300 USD for 3-5 days.
Budget-Friendly Destinations in Peru
Some places in Peru are cheaper to visit than others. Here are a few destinations that are perfect for budget travelers.
Cusco
Cusco is the gateway to Machu Picchu, but there’s much more to see beyond the famous ruins. Spend time exploring the local markets, visit the Sacred Valley, or just enjoy the atmosphere of the Plaza de Armas. Many museums and churches have affordable entry fees or are free on Sundays.
Arequipa
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Peru, Arequipa is budget-friendly. Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, hike the nearby Colca Canyon for free, and enjoy cheap eats at the local markets. Hostels here are affordable, and you can easily get around on foot.
Huaraz
If you love hiking, Huaraz is perfect for budget travelers. Most of the town’s attractions are its breathtaking mountains and glaciers, which don’t cost a dime to see. Do the Laguna 69 hike (for free), or join a budget group trek for multi-day adventures in the Cordillera Blanca.
Puno and Lake Titicaca
Puno and Lake Titicaca are often overlooked, but they’re worth visiting for budget travelers. You can take a cheap boat ride to the floating islands of the Uros people for as low as $10 USD. Walking around the town of Puno and meeting locals costs nothing, and hostels here are extremely affordable.
Final Thoughts
Traveling through Peru on a budget is not only possible but also rewarding. With affordable transport, budget accommodations, and amazing food that won’t break the bank, you can explore this beautiful country without spending too much. Whether you’re visiting Machu Picchu or just going off the beaten path, there are plenty of ways to save money and still have an incredible journey.
Leave a reply