How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Peru?
The concept of budget luxury in Peru may sound a bit unusual. Most people associate luxury with expensive tours and five-star hotels. While that’s often true in Europe or North America, South America remains affordable for most travelers. The cost of traveling to Peru may surprise you, so together with the experts at Cusco Peru Travel, we’ve prepared this detailed guide. Let’s break it down!
Daily Cost in Peru
The first step is calculating your daily budget based on your travel style:
- Low to mid-range budget: Expect to spend $30–$45 USD per day, enough to cover basic meals, hostels, and transportation.
- Comfort and exclusive services: A daily budget of $70–$100 USD will give you access to upscale restaurants and 4–5 star hotels.
- Backpackers: You can get by with $25 USD per day, but this means basic accommodation, cheap food, and only local transport.
As you can see, your Peru travel budget depends greatly on how you choose to travel.
Transportation Costs in Peru
Traveling by Bus
Peru is a large country, and long-distance buses are a common way to travel. Companies like Cruz del Sur are safe and comfortable.
- Lima to Cusco: About 20 hours – approximately $60 USD.
- Cusco to Puno: Around 7 hours – about $20 USD.
Buses are affordable and let you enjoy scenic landscapes, but they require plenty of time.
Traveling by Plane
If you prefer speed and comfort, flying is the best option. LATAM Airlines offers the most reliable domestic flights.
- Lima to Arequipa: About 1.5 hours – costs around $150 USD.
Your choice of bus vs. plane will greatly affect your final travel budget.
Price of Popular Tours in Peru
Adventure Tours
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): A day trip costs around $100 USD per person.
- Inca Trail: A classic 4-day trek through the Andes following ancient Inca paths (prices vary depending on operator).
Cultural & Traditional Tours
- Lake Titicaca (Puno): Visit the Uros floating islands. A day tour costs about $50 USD per person, private tours cost more.
Machu Picchu by Train
One of the highlights of Peru is traveling to Machu Picchu by train. Peru offers some of the most scenic train journeys in the world.
- Vistadome Train: Around $230 USD round-trip per person. Features panoramic glass windows for incredible Sacred Valley views.
- Full-day tour to Machu Picchu: Including train, tickets, and guide, expect to pay between $600–$1,000 USD depending on service level.
Travel Insurance in Peru
Another essential cost to consider is travel insurance. This gives you peace of mind in case of emergencies, especially if you plan to hike the Inca Trail or explore the Amazon rainforest. It’s always better to travel prepared and safe.
You Don’t Have to Be Rich to Travel Well
Ultimately, the cost of traveling to Peru depends on your travel style. Whether you’re on a backpacker’s budget or looking for luxury, Peru offers unforgettable experiences for everyone.
At Cusco Peru Travel, our specialty is creating tailor-made luxury trips. Fill out our form today and let us design your dream journey through Peru.
