Is Peru Expensive To Travel To? (A Complete Cost Breakdown)
Is Peru Expensive To Travel To?
Peru is a land of contrasts, from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest. It’s a country with a rich history and culture, and it’s home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including Machu Picchu. But is Peru expensive to travel to?
The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including your budget, the time of year you’re traveling, and where you’re visiting. Peru is a relatively affordable country to travel to, but there are some ways to save money if you’re on a tight budget.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the cost of travel in Peru, and we’ll provide some tips on how to save money on your trip. We’ll also cover some of the factors that can affect the cost of your trip, such as the time of year you’re traveling and where you’re visiting.
Is Peru Expensive To Travel To?
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|—|—|—|
| Flight | \$600-\$1,200 | From the United States |
| Accommodation | \$20-\$50 per night | Dorms, hostels, and budget hotels |
| Food | \$10-\$20 per meal | Local restaurants and street food |
| Transportation | \$5-\$10 per ride | Buses, taxis, and colectivos |
| Activities | \$10-\$50 per activity | Museums, tours, and excursions |
| Total | \$1,000-\$2,000 per week | For a budget-minded traveler |
Note: These prices are just a rough estimate and may vary depending on the time of year, your travel style, and the specific destinations you visit.
Cost of Airfare and Transportation
How much does it cost to fly to Peru?
The cost of flying to Peru will vary depending on your departure city, the time of year you’re traveling, and the airline you choose. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from \$500 to \$1,500 for a round-trip flight.
Here are some sample prices for flights from major U.S. cities to Lima, Peru:
- New York City to Lima: \$500-700
- Los Angeles to Lima: \$500-700
- Chicago to Lima: \$600-800
- San Francisco to Lima: \$600-800
What are the different transportation options within Peru?
Once you’re in Peru, you’ll have a few different transportation options to choose from. The most popular option is to take a bus. Buses are affordable and can take you to all major cities and towns in Peru.
Here are some sample bus fares from Lima to other major cities in Peru:
- Lima to Cusco: \$25-35
- Lima to Arequipa: \$35-45
- Lima to Puno: \$40-50
- Lima to Iquitos: \$100-120
You can also travel by train in Peru. However, the train system is not as extensive as the bus system, and it can be more expensive.
Here are some sample train fares from Lima to other major cities in Peru:
- Lima to Cusco: \$50-60
- Lima to Arequipa: \$60-70
- Lima to Puno: \$70-80
- Lima to Iquitos: \$150-170
You can also fly between major cities in Peru. However, flights are often more expensive than buses or trains.
Here are some sample flight fares from Lima to other major cities in Peru:
- Lima to Cusco: \$100-120
- Lima to Arequipa: \$120-140
- Lima to Puno: \$140-160
- Lima to Iquitos: \$200-220
How much does it cost to rent a car in Peru?
Renting a car in Peru is a great way to explore the country at your own pace. However, it can be expensive, especially if you’re planning on driving long distances.
Here are some sample rental car prices in Peru:
- Compact car: \$30-40 per day
- Mid-size car: \$40-50 per day
- SUV: \$50-60 per day
You can also rent a car with a driver. This can be a more expensive option, but it can be more convenient if you don’t want to worry about driving yourself.
Here are some sample prices for a car with a driver in Peru:
- Compact car: \$50-60 per day
- Mid-size car: \$60-70 per day
- SUV: \$70-80 per day
Cost of Accommodation
What are the different types of accommodation available in Peru?
There are a variety of different types of accommodation available in Peru, ranging from hostels to luxury hotels. The type of accommodation you choose will depend on your budget and your travel style.
Here are some of the most popular types of accommodation in Peru:
- Hostels: Hostels are a great option for budget travelers. They offer shared dorms and private rooms, and they typically have a kitchen and common area. Hostels are a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends.
- Hotels: Hotels are a more comfortable option for travelers who want more privacy and amenities. Hotels range from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts.
- Airbnb: Airbnb is a great option for travelers who want to stay in a home or apartment. Airbnb listings offer more privacy and space than hostels or hotels, and they can be a more affordable option.
- Camping: Camping is a great option for travelers who want to experience the great outdoors. There are many campgrounds in Peru, and they offer a variety of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities.
How much does it cost to stay in a hostel, hotel, or Airbnb in Peru?
The cost of accommodation in Peru will vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose, the location, and the time of year you’re traveling. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from \$10
3. Cost of Food
How much does it cost to eat in Peru?
The cost of food in Peru varies depending on the type of food you eat and the location of the restaurant. In general, you can expect to pay around $10-15 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant. However, you can find cheaper food if you eat at street stalls or markets.
What are the different types of food available in Peru?
Peruvian cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous Peruvian influences. The most popular dishes include ceviche, a seafood dish made with raw fish cured in citrus juice; lomo saltado, a stir-fry made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes; and causa rellena, a layered dish made with mashed potatoes, chicken, and vegetables.
Where are the best places to eat in Peru for different budgets?
For budget-friendly eats, head to the Mercado Central in Lima. This bustling market is home to dozens of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to cooked food. You can find delicious meals for as little as $2-3.
For mid-range dining, try one of the many restaurants in Miraflores. This upscale neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants serving Peruvian cuisine as well as international fare. Expect to pay around $15-20 for a meal.
For fine dining, head to Astrid y Gastn in Lima. This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its creative and innovative Peruvian cuisine. A meal here will set you back around $50-75.
4. Cost of Activities and Attractions
What are the different activities and attractions available in Peru?
Peru is home to a wide variety of activities and attractions, including ancient ruins, colonial cities, and natural wonders. Some of the most popular destinations include:
- Machu Picchu: This ancient Incan city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Visitors can explore the ruins, take a hike to the Sun Gate, and learn about Inca history.
- Cusco: The former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a charming city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the city’s many churches, museums, and markets.
- The Sacred Valley: This valley is located just outside of Cusco and is home to some of the most beautiful Inca ruins in the country. Visitors can hike to the ruins of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray.
- The Amazon Rainforest: Peru’s Amazon rainforest is the largest rainforest in the world. Visitors can go on jungle hikes, visit indigenous villages, and see wildlife such as monkeys, jaguars, and piranhas.
How much does it cost to visit Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, and other popular attractions in Peru?
The cost of visiting Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, and other popular attractions in Peru varies depending on the time of year you visit, the type of transportation you use, and the number of activities you participate in.
- The cost of a round-trip train ticket from Cusco to Machu Picchu is around $100.
- The cost of a guided tour of Machu Picchu is around $200.
- The cost of a flight from Lima to Cusco is around $100.
- The cost of a guided tour of the Nazca Lines is around $200.
The best ways to save money on activities and attractions in Peru
There are a few ways to save money on activities and attractions in Peru:
- Book your flights and accommodations in advance.
- Travel during the off-season.
- Eat at local restaurants instead of tourist restaurants.
- Use public transportation instead of taxis.
- Visit free attractions such as museums and parks.
Is Peru Expensive To Travel To?
Answer:
The cost of traveling to Peru depends on a number of factors, including your travel style, the time of year you visit, and where you go. In general, Peru is a relatively affordable destination, especially compared to other popular tourist destinations in South America. However, there are some ways to save money on your trip, such as staying in hostels or guesthouses, cooking your own meals, and using public transportation.
Here is a breakdown of some of the average costs of travel in Peru:
- Accommodation: Hostels: $10-20 per night; Guesthouses: $20-40 per night; Hotels: $40-100 per night
- Food: Street food: $1-5 per meal; Restaurant meals: $5-20 per meal
- Transportation: Buses: $1-5 per hour; Taxis: $5-10 per mile; Uber: $1-2 per mile
- Sightseeing: Entrance fees to museums and attractions: $5-20
Here are some tips for saving money on your trip to Peru:
- Book your flights and accommodation in advance. This will help you get the best prices.
- Travel during the shoulder season (May-June and September-October). This is when prices are lower than during peak season (December-March).
- Stay in hostels or guesthouses. This is a great way to save money on accommodation.
- Cook your own meals. This is a great way to save money on food.
- Use public transportation. This is a great way to get around Peru without spending a lot of money.
- Visit free attractions. There are many free attractions in Peru, such as parks, markets, and historical sites.
Overall, Peru is a relatively affordable destination, especially compared to other popular tourist destinations in South America. By following these tips, you can save money on your trip and have a great time exploring Peru.
Peru is a beautiful and diverse country that offers a wide range of travel experiences for every budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious vacation or a more affordable option, there’s something for everyone in Peru.
The cost of travel to Peru will vary depending on your desired itinerary and travel style. However, it is possible to travel to Peru on a budget, especially if you stay in hostels, cook your own meals, and use public transportation.
Here are a few tips for saving money on your trip to Peru:
- Book your flights and accommodations in advance.
- Travel during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October).
- Stay in hostels or guesthouses.
- Cook your own meals.
- Use public transportation.
- Take advantage of free activities.
By following these tips, you can save money and still have a great time in Peru.
Author Profile

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Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.
His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.
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