Typical Budget for Peru

Not only is Peru an incredible destination for adventure and nature lovers, but it also stands out for being one of the most accessible in South America.

Your biggest expense will likely be airfare, so planning ahead is crucial. Flight prices to Peru can vary significantly depending on where you’re leaving from and what time of year you’re traveling (peak or low). To find cheap flights to Peru, it’s a good idea to use airfare comparison sites like Skyscanner.

The next thing to consider is your itinerary and the places you want to explore; this will be an important factor when calculating the total costs of your trip. For example: prices for a fully customized 8-day trip to Peru—including transportation to the tours, English-speaking guide, meals, accommodation in a lodge in the Amazon, and entrance fees to Machu Picchu—start at just over $1,000.

When planning your trip and looking at prices, it’s helpful to remember that Peru’s official currency is the sol (S/) and its international currency code is PEN. Naturally, the exchange rate can fluctuate based on a number of factors. Currently, 1 USD is equivalent to 3.82 Peruvian soles.

Note: As with visiting any other destination, researching your itinerary and booking in advance is essential. Many accommodation options in Peru fill up quickly and some attractions (such as the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu) have a limited number of visitors/hikers allowed per day, so it is advisable to book several months in advance.

The Cost of Accommodation in Peru

In Peru, accommodation ranges from beds in budget hostels to 5-star lodges in the Amazon and boutique hotels near the beach in Lima.

If you want to keep your travel costs down, Peru offers numerous hostels in most major cities and towns across the country. If you’re looking to save money while making new friends, hostels are your best bet.

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

Another option to consider if you are on a tight budget or traveling as a couple/family is Airbnb. Prices vary depending on location. In Lima, for example, you can find an apartment for $45 per night.

For mid-range accommodations, prices range from $40 to $70 per night. Some good options to consider are Hotel Ayenda El Patio in Lima and Desert Night Ecocamp in the Huacachina Oasis.

If you prefer a luxury experience in Peru, expect prices starting at $120 per night. You can opt for a hotel with views of the Pacific Ocean, such as Second Home in Lima, or enjoy an unforgettable stay at a high-altitude lodge in Urubamba.

Cusco and Iquitos

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

In Cusco, hostel prices are generally lower (compared to those in Lima), with accommodations like The Chusay Rooftop offering beds in shared dorms from $6 per night. Hotel rooms cost around $40 on average. Some good options include the Golden Inca Hotel and Ayenda Estancia San Pedro.

Iquitos is a very convenient location for those looking to explore the Amazon rainforest in Peru. You can book accommodation in the city or, if you are up for a wilderness adventure, spend a few nights in one of the 10 Amazon lodges near Iquitos.

Prices for lodges in the Amazon range from $200 to $650 and offer a spectacular experience of sleeping in the jungle, enjoying tranquility and observing incredible flora and fauna.

The Cost of Transportation in Peru

Peru has a good public transportation system, and using public transportation is one of the most economical ways to explore the country.

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

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 Taking the train is another great option, especially if you’re trying to get to Machu Picchu.

There are two railway companies that operate trains from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (the closest town to Machu Picchu) – PeruRail and Inca Rail. A cheap one-way train ticket from Cusco to the ancient site of Machu Picchu will cost you between $65 and $75. Both companies offer various classes of travel with extras such as air conditioning and free snacks.

Although it may be more expensive compared to other methods of transportation, train travel offers a comfortable experience with fantastic views that are hard to match with other modes of transportation.

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

For short distances, you can take a taxi. The average fare between districts ranges from $3 to $4. Bargaining before settling on a fare is acceptable and even expected.

If you feel confident driving in another country, you may want to consider renting a car. Renting a car for a week from Lima, for example, starts at $150 for an economical option.

Check out our article on transportation options in Peru for more information.

The Cost of Eating Out in Peru

Peru offers a surprising variety of unique flavors and dishes, and they’re all pretty affordable. If you’re on a budget, you can eat for around $2 at street stalls. If you’re willing to spend more and try more exquisite Peruvian food at a high-end restaurant, you’ll pay around $60 – $70 per meal.

One dish you must try in Peru is ceviche, a citrus-infused dish made from fresh fish, which is delicious and easy to find no matter where you stay. Also, be sure to try some typical Peruvian drinks like Pisco (Peru’s most famous drink), Inca Kola, Chilcano, and Emoliente.

Here are some average costs of food and eating out that you are likely to encounter while traveling in Peru:

French fries: $3 (S/ 9) Ice cream: $3 (S/ 9) Lunch: $10 – $20 (S/ 38 – S/ 80) Ceviche: $12 (S/ 45) Lunch at a mid-range restaurant (per person): $15 – $19 (S/ 60 – S/ 80) Lunch at a budget restaurant (per person): $2.55 – $3.10 (S/ 10 – S/ 12) Tip: Smaller cities, towns, and villages often offer cheaper dining options. Food markets are also a great option if you’re looking to try delicious Peruvian food on a budget.

Prices for Activities in Peru

The cost of activities in Peru will vary depending on the region you visit. Many of the top activities in Peru, such as exploring Cusco and other tourist activities, are quite affordable. Others, such as flying over the Nazca Lines and trying adventure sports, tend to be more expensive.

In the Cusco region, you’ll likely spend most of your soles on hiking and visiting beautiful ancient Incan ruins. Some common costs when visiting Machu Picchu that you can expect are:

Entrance: $45 for Machu Picchu alone or $60 for Machu Picchu + a mountain hike at the site Food: $6 to $22 (in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes) Hiring a local guide: $40 to $85 Hiking the Inca Trail is another must-do activity for many travelers. Although hikers can’t trek the trail on their own, there are Inca Trail trekking tours that will help you make the most of your adventure based on your preferred travel style. You can choose from a private 2-day Inca Trail tour from $565 or a 4-day trek from $795.

Another adventure-filled activity you should consider is exploring the stunning Amazon rainforest. One of the best ways to do so is by joining a 3-day tour in Iquitos (prices start 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.

Daily Budget Estimates in Peru

Most accommodations, restaurants, and major attractions in Peru are reasonably priced, and you can explore the country and enjoy a great experience whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a more luxurious adventure.

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

Budget travel: $30-$35 per day Mid-range travel: $40-$100 per day Luxury travel: $100+ per day It’s possible to enjoy a great tour of Peru even on a limited budget. You can cut costs by eating at cheaper restaurants or market food stalls and cooking for yourself while you travel. If you want to cut accommodation costs, it’s helpful to remember that many cheaper options are located outside the center and you could end up spending more on transportation.

Money Exchange in Peru

You can exchange your currency for Peruvian soles both in your country of origin and once you arrive in Peru.

The Peruvian Sol comes in 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 soles. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2 and 5 soles, as well as 10, 20 and 50 cents. When exchanging money in Peru, you have several options: at the airport, banks or local exchange offices. You can also use an ATM or opt for a money changer on the street.

Although it is possible to pay with US dollars and even euros in certain places (e.g. restaurants, hotels and large stores), it is not recommended as the exchange rate will be less favorable. When exploring Peru, make sure you have enough soles to cover your travel needs.

A word of caution: In Peru, banknotes (both dollars and soles) with tears and wrinkles are usually rejected. If you receive a banknote in poor condition, politely ask the cashier to exchange it for one in better condition.

Tip: Make sure to check the exchange rate online before heading to a reputable money exchange location. Also, to avoid counterfeit money, make sure to feel the embossed details on the bill and hold the bill up to a light source to identify a clean, crisp watermark.

The Cost of Travel Insurance

A significant portion of your travel budget should be allocated to purchasing travel insurance before you leave home. Regular insurance usually does not cover you abroad and the costs of a medical emergency abroad can quickly add up.

Good travel insurance will cover things like flight cancellations, lost luggage, and unexpected hospitalization. Plus, if you get seriously ill or injured in a remote location, the insurance will cover the costs of getting you home.

Ready for your trip to Peru?

Not only is Peru filled with stunning scenery, ancient Incan sites, and world-class cuisine, but it’s also relatively inexpensive. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned adventurer in Peru, visiting this South American gem will 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.