Traveling through Peru doesn’t have to be expensive. If you avoid luxury hotels and pricey meals, you’ll find it’s easy to keep costs low. Here are some practical tips to help you save money—especially if you plan to take multiple excursions:
🏨 Stay in Hospedajes
Hospedajes are family-run guesthouses and the most affordable accommodation outside hostel dorms. Choose them whenever possible for a more local and budget-friendly experience.
🚍 Use Public Transportation
Lima’s new urban buses are a great alternative to taxis, especially if you’re staying in the tourist-friendly Miraflores district. They’re easy to access and will get you to downtown museums quickly.
🍽️ Eat the Menu del Día
These set meals are similar to a “daily special” and typically cost around 9 PEN ($3 USD). They’re filling, local, and budget-friendly.
📅 Travel Off-Season
For lower travel costs, visit Peru in April–May or September–October. These shoulder months offer good weather and fewer crowds.
🚐 Take Colectivos
These small buses cost around 1–2 PEN ($0.30–0.60 USD) per ride. They can be confusing, but there’s usually a young man at the door who can confirm your destination. Bus stops aren’t always marked, so watch for crowds.
🕒 Book Last-Minute Tours
If you’re flexible and have time to wait, booking last-minute tours—especially for the Inca Trail—can save you money. Booking months in advance often means paying more. But if you’re patient, you might score a deal. Just don’t wait until the last minute if Machu Picchu is your dream.
🚶 Join a Free Walking Tour
This is a great way to learn the history of the places you’re visiting and avoid missing key landmarks. Free Walking Tour Peru offers guided walks in both Lima and Cusco.
🚗 Save with Ride-Sharing
Uber is cheaper than taxis and a convenient way to get around if you don’t want to wait for a bus. Uber Pool lets you share a ride for even more savings. Uber currently operates in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa.
