Peru Trip Cost: Budget-Friendly 7-Day Adventure Under $1000

Planning a trip to Peru? You’re in for an amazing adventure! This South American gem offers ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. But how much will it cost? A typical one-week trip to Peru for two people averages around $5,200, including flights, hotels, food, and activities. Don’t worry – there are ways to spend less (or more) based on your travel style.

Peru can fit any budget. Backpackers can get by on $30-40 per day, while luxury travelers might spend $300+ daily. The good news is that Peru is pretty affordable once you’re there. Your biggest expense will likely be flights to Lima, which can range from $500-1000 round-trip from the US.

Ready to start planning your Peruvian getaway? We’ll break down all the costs you need to know, from Machu Picchu tours to ceviche dinners. You’ll learn how to save money without missing out on Peru’s top sights and experiences. Let’s dive in and figure out how to make your dream trip a reality!

Key Takeaways

• Peru trips cost $5,200 on average for two people for one week
• Budget travelers can explore Peru for as little as $30-40 per day
• Flights to Lima are often the biggest expense, ranging from $500-1000

Understanding the Costs of Travel in Peru

Peru offers incredible value for travelers, with options to suit all budgets. Prices vary widely between big cities and rural areas, so planning ahead helps you make the most of your money.

Currency and Daily Budget

Peru uses the sol (S/.) as its currency. You’ll find ATMs in major towns and cities, but carry cash for smaller places. A budget traveler can get by on about $30-40 per day, while mid-range folks spend $50-100 daily. Luxury travel starts around $200+ per day.

Budget travelers can stay in hostels, eat at local markets, and use public transport. Mid-range visitors enjoy nicer hotels, restaurant meals, and guided tours. Luxury options include high-end lodges, fine dining, and private transport.

Tip: Change money at banks or official exchanges for the best rates. Avoid street changers.

Accommodation Costs

You’ve got tons of choices for places to stay in Peru. Hostel dorms start around $10 per night, while basic private rooms go for $20-30. Mid-range hotels cost $40-80 nightly. Luxury digs run $150+.

In Cusco, you might pay:

• Hostel dorm: $12
• Budget hotel: $25
• Mid-range hotel: $60
• Luxury hotel: $200+

Prices tend to be higher in Lima and touristy spots like Machu Picchu. You’ll find better deals in smaller towns.

Food and Dining Expenses

Peruvian food is amazing and affordable. Street food and local markets are super cheap – think $2-3 for a meal. A sit-down lunch at a local spot costs $5-7. Dinner at a nice restaurant runs $15-25 per person.

Some typical food costs:

• Empanada from a street vendor: $1
• Set lunch (menu del dia) at a local joint: $3-5
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: $10-15
• Pisco sour cocktail: $5-7

Grocery stores are cheap if you want to cook. Splurge on a fancy meal in Lima to try Peru’s world-class cuisine.

Transportation Options and Costs

Getting around Peru can be cheap and easy if you know your options. You’ll find a mix of buses, taxis, and planes to fit different budgets and travel styles.

Local Transportation

City buses are dirt cheap – often less than $1 per ride. Taxis are affordable too, but always agree on a price before getting in. In Lima, the Metropolitano bus system is fast and costs about $0.75 per trip.

Colectivos (shared vans) run set routes in cities and between nearby towns. They’re cramped but super cheap, usually $1-3 for short trips. Just flag one down on the street.

Uber works in big cities like Lima and Cusco. It’s convenient and prices are reasonable. A 15-minute ride might cost $3-5.

Long-Distance Travel

Buses are the main way to travel between cities in Peru. The best bus companies like Cruz del Sur, Tepsa, and Oltursa offer comfy seats and onboard movies. A 10-hour overnight trip from Lima to Cusco costs $30-50.

Peru Hop is a hop-on hop-off bus service popular with backpackers. It’s pricier (Lima to Cusco is about $200) but includes some activities and hotel pickups.

For a fun local experience, try the cheaper “chicken buses”. They’re slower and less comfy, but you’ll save some cash.

Domestic Flights

Flying saves time on long trips across Peru. One-way fares between major cities usually cost $50-100 if you book in advance.

LATAM and Sky Airline often have the best deals. A flight from Lima to Cusco takes just over an hour and typically costs $60-80 each way.

Renting a car is possible but not recommended for most trips. Roads can be rough and local driving habits are unpredictable. Stick to buses and planes unless you’re a confident driver.

Accommodation Types for Every Budget

Peru offers a wide range of places to stay that fit different budgets and travel styles. You’ll find options from basic backpacker hostels to luxury resorts in most major destinations.

Hostels and Guesthouses

Hostels are a great choice if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Most Peruvian hostels offer dorm beds for $8-15 per night. You can find private rooms in hostels or guesthouses for around $20-35. Many hostels have common areas where you can meet other travelers and swap tips.

Some hostels in popular spots like Cusco even have rooftop terraces with amazing views. Don’t forget to check if breakfast is included – it often is! Guesthouses are another budget-friendly option, especially in smaller towns. They’re usually family-run and can give you a more local experience.

Hotels and Mid-range Options

If you want more privacy and amenities, mid-range hotels are plentiful in Peru. You can expect to pay $50-100 per night for a decent 3-star hotel room. These usually come with private bathrooms, TVs, and sometimes a small fridge.

Many mid-range hotels offer free breakfast buffets too. In tourist hotspots like Machu Picchu, prices might be a bit higher. But you can often find great deals if you book in advance. Some hotels even throw in perks like airport transfers or tour discounts.

Luxury Accommodation

For a splurge, Peru has some truly amazing luxury hotels and resorts. You’ll find 5-star options in Lima, Cusco, and near major attractions. Prices usually start around $200-300 per night but can go much higher for top-end places.

Luxury lodges near Lake Titicaca or in the Amazon offer unique experiences. Imagine waking up to breathtaking views or surrounded by jungle sounds! Some upscale hotels are in restored colonial buildings, giving you a taste of Peru’s rich history. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, these spots can make your trip unforgettable.

You can compare prices and book a wide range of accommodations on sites like Booking.com. For longer stays or if you’re traveling with a group, vacation rentals on Vrbo can be a good value. They often have kitchens, which can help you save on food costs.

Key Destinations and Related Costs

Peru offers amazing sights at different price points. Let’s break down what you can expect to spend at some top spots.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, is a must-visit. Hotels range from $20 to $200 per night. Budget $10-15 for meals at local spots. The main square is free to explore.

The Sacred Valley has ruins and markets. Day trips cost $50-100. Stay in Ollantaytambo for $30-80 nightly.

Don’t miss:

• Sacsayhuamán ruins: $45 entry
• San Pedro Market: Free, great for cheap eats
• Pisac ruins and market: $25 for transport and entry

Lima and Miraflores

Lima, Peru’s capital, can be pricey. Miraflores is the upscale area.

Accommodation:

• Hostels: $10-20 per night
• Mid-range hotels: $50-100
• Luxury: $150+

Food costs vary:

• Street food: $2-5 per meal
• Casual restaurants: $10-20
• Fine dining: $30-50+

Free activities:

• Stroll Miraflores boardwalk
• Visit Plaza de Armas
• Parque del Amor

Paid attractions:

• Larco Museum: $10 entry
• Huaca Pucllana ruins: $6 entry

Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes

Machu Picchu is Peru’s crown jewel. It’s not cheap, but worth it.

Costs:

• Entry ticket: $45-65 (book early!)
• Bus to ruins: $24 round-trip
• Guided tour: $40-60

Aguas Calientes (base town):

• Budget hotels: $30-50
• Mid-range: $70-120
• Meals: $10-25

Tips:

• Book train tickets early ($50-80 one-way)
• Pack snacks to save money
• Consider a 1-day visit to cut costs

Arequipa and Colca Canyon

Arequipa is Peru’s white city. It’s more affordable than Cusco.

Arequipa costs:

• Hostels: $8-15 per night
• Mid-range hotels: $30-60
• Meals: $5-15

Free stuff:

• Plaza de Armas
• San Camilo Market

Colca Canyon trips:

• 2-day trek: $40-80
• Luxury lodge stay: $200+

Don’t miss the Monasterio de Santa Catalina ($12 entry).

Puno and Lake Titicaca

Puno is your gateway to Lake Titicaca. It’s cheaper than other tourist spots.

Lodging:

• Budget: $15-30
• Mid-range: $40-70

Activities:

• Floating islands tour: $25-40
• Overnight homestay: $30-50

Food is cheap here. Budget $5-10 per meal.

Tip: Pack warm clothes. It gets cold at night!

Outdoor and Cultural Activities

Peru offers a wealth of exciting outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences. You can explore ancient ruins, trek through stunning landscapes, relax on beautiful beaches, and discover amazing wildlife.

Hiking and Trekking

Peru’s diverse terrain provides amazing hiking opportunities. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a must-do for many travelers. This 4-day trek costs about $500-700, including guides, food, and camping gear.

Rainbow Mountain is another popular hike. A day trip from Cusco runs around $30-50. For a more challenging adventure, try the Salkantay Trek. This 5-day journey to Machu Picchu costs $300-500.

Remember to factor in gear rental if you don’t bring your own. Hiking boots can cost $5-10 per day, while trekking poles are about $3-5 daily.

Historical Sites and Museums

Peru’s many archaeological sites and museums bring its rich history to life. Machu Picchu is the crown jewel, with entrance fees around $50-60. A guided tour adds another $40-50.

In Cusco, the tourist ticket ($40-50) gives you access to 16 sites over 10 days. This includes the impressive Sacsayhuamán ruins and several museums.

Lima’s top museums are affordable. The Larco Museum costs about $10, while the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History is just $5.

Beaches and Water Activities

Peru’s long coastline offers plenty of beach fun. Máncora, a popular surf town, has beaches for all skill levels. Surf lessons cost $20-30 per hour, while board rentals are $10-15 daily.

For a unique experience, visit the Ballestas Islands. A boat tour from Paracas costs $25-35 and lets you see penguins, sea lions, and various birds.

Scuba diving is available in several coastal areas. A two-tank dive typically runs $80-120, including equipment rental.

Jungle Tours and Wildlife

The Amazon Rainforest covers a large part of Peru, offering incredible wildlife viewing. Multi-day tours from Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado range from $100-300 per day, depending on comfort level.

You can spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds on guided walks. Night tours let you search for nocturnal animals. Canoe trips on Amazon rivers are often included.

For a budget option, try a day trip to Tambopata National Reserve. These start at around $50-70 and give you a taste of the jungle.

Food and Drink: Sampling Peruvian Flavors

Peru’s food scene is a true feast for the senses. You’ll find incredible flavors and textures at every price point, from humble street carts to world-class restaurants.

Local Eateries and Street Food

Street food in Peru is cheap and delicious. You can grab a filling meal for just 5-10 soles ($1.50-$3). Try anticuchos (beef heart skewers) or papa rellena (stuffed potato) from a cart. Local markets are great for sampling fruits and snacks.

For a quick lunch, head to a menú del día spot. These offer set 2-3 course meals for 10-15 soles ($3-$4.50). It’s a steal and lets you try home-style Peruvian cooking.

Don’t miss ceviche from a cevichería. A plate of this citrus-cured fish dish runs 15-25 soles ($4.50-$7.50). Wash it down with a glass of chicha morada, a purple corn drink, for 3-5 soles.

Mid-range Restaurants

For sit-down meals, budget 30-60 soles ($9-$18) per person. This gets you a main dish and drink at a nice spot. Lomo saltado is a must-try – stir-fried beef with veggies and fries.

Chifa restaurants blend Chinese and Peruvian flavors. A hearty plate of arroz chaufa (fried rice) costs about 25 soles ($7.50). Pollo a la brasa joints serve juicy rotisserie chicken. A quarter chicken with sides runs 15-20 soles ($4.50-$6).

For drinks, try pisco sour. This national cocktail costs 15-25 soles ($4.50-$7.50) at most bars. Local beers are cheaper at 8-12 soles ($2.40-$3.60) a bottle.

Fine Dining and Specialties

Lima’s top restaurants offer world-class dining. Expect to pay 150-300 soles ($45-$90) per person for a tasting menu. It’s pricey but worth it for the culinary experience.

Astrid y Gastón and Central are two famous spots. They showcase Peru’s biodiversity through creative dishes. Book well in advance.

For a special meal without breaking the bank, try a nice cevichería. La Mar or El Mercado serve amazing seafood for 70-120 soles ($21-$36) per person.

Alpaca steak is a Peruvian specialty. Try this lean, tender meat for 40-60 soles ($12-$18) at mid-range spots in Cusco.

Planning and Preparation

Getting ready for your Peru trip is exciting! Let’s go over the key things you need to do before jetting off to this amazing country. We’ll cover important documents, what to pack, and how to stay healthy.

Travel Documents and Insurance

First things first – make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date. Most travelers don’t need a visa for Peru if staying less than 183 days. But double-check the latest requirements, just in case.

Travel insurance is a must for Peru. Look for a policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Some plans even include adventure activities like hiking the Inca Trail. Shop around to find the best deal.

Don’t forget to make copies of your important documents. Keep one set with you and leave another with a trusted friend or family member back home. It’s also smart to snap photos of them on your phone.

Packing Tips and Essentials

Peru’s climate varies a lot, so pack layers! Here’s a quick list of must-haves:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Rain jacket
• Sun hat and sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Refillable water bottle
• Power bank for your phone

If you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail, bring a good backpack and sturdy boots. Pack light – you can always buy toiletries in Peru if needed.

For your day bag, include hand sanitizer, tissues, and some snacks. Oh, and don’t forget a camera to capture those amazing views!

Health and Safety

Before you go, check if you need any vaccinations. Your doctor might recommend shots for hepatitis A, typhoid, or yellow fever. Start this process early, as some vaccines need time to become effective.

To avoid altitude sickness in places like Cusco, take it easy for the first day or two. Drink lots of water and try some coca tea – it really helps!

Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas. Use ATMs inside banks when possible, and keep your cash and cards in a secure money belt. It’s also a good idea to learn a few basic Spanish phrases – locals really appreciate the effort!

Sample Budgets for Different Types of Travelers

Peru offers amazing experiences for all kinds of travelers. Your budget will shape your trip, but you can have a great time no matter how much you spend. Let’s look at some sample itineraries and costs for different types of travelers.

Budget Traveler Itinerary

As a budget traveler, you can still see Peru’s highlights without breaking the bank. Plan to spend about $30-40 per day. Stay in hostels for $8-12 a night. Eat at local markets and small restaurants for $3-5 per meal. Use public buses between cities.

For a two-week trip, budget around $500-600, not including flights. Here’s a sample itinerary:

• 3 days in Lima: Free walking tour, visit Plaza Mayor
• 4 days in Cusco: Explore Inca ruins, $50 for Rainbow Mountain day trip
• 3 days hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: $200 for a budget tour
• 2 days in Arequipa: Visit Santa Catalina Monastery
• 2 days at Lake Titicaca: Stay with a local family on Taquile Island

Mid-range Traveler Itinerary

With a mid-range budget of $100-150 per day, you can enjoy more comfort and activities. Stay in nice 3-star hotels for $50-80 a night. Eat at good restaurants for $10-15 per meal. Take domestic flights to save time.

For a two-week trip, plan to spend $1400-2100, plus flights. Here’s a sample itinerary:

• 3 days in Lima: Food tour ($50), paragliding ($80)
• 4 days in Cusco: Guided city tour, $80 for Sacred Valley day trip
• 4 days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: $550 for a quality tour operator
• 3 days in the Amazon: $400 for an eco-lodge stay with activities

Luxury Traveler Itinerary

As a luxury traveler, you can indulge in Peru’s finest experiences. Budget $300-500+ per day. Stay in 5-star hotels for $200-400 a night. Enjoy gourmet meals for $30-50+. Take private tours and domestic flights.

For a two-week trip, expect to spend $4200-7000+, not including international flights. Here’s a sample itinerary:

• 3 days in Lima: Stay at Belmond Miraflores Park, take a private city tour
• 4 days in Sacred Valley: Take a luxury train to Machu Picchu, and enjoy a guided tour
• 3 days in Cusco: Enjoy high-end spa treatments and a private cooking class
• 4 days Amazon cruise: $3000+ for an all-inclusive luxury river boat

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