If you are on the exploration for the best sightseeing spaces, Peru must be on the list. Who does not want to relish the delicious food alongside the adventures? Moreover, iconic landmarks like Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, and the vibrant city of Cusco make it popular.
Thus, if you have been planning to explore Peru but cannot spend more, read ahead. The blog lists the best techniques for an affordable trip.
How much does it cost to travel to Peru?
It generally costs around €556 for a round trip from Ireland to Peru. However, the flight is a little longer. The cheapest month to travel to Peru is February. Moreover, there is no direct flight to Peru. You instead must consider a connected one to reach there. Check for the nearest flight to the specific destination. It will help you reduce the costs.
5 Strategies to explore Peru without spending much
One of the best ways to travel on a budget is choosing the right time to reach Peru. Generally, you should plan a trip to Peru in October if on a budget-friendly travel. The weather stays normal. You may find accommodations easily at a fair rate compared to other months.
It means you don’t have to book tickets early. Even booking it 2 days before may help you save money. Here are other tips to save money on your trip to Peru:
1) Check for cheap accommodation options
The best part is- you share multiple options of choosing the accommodation in Peru. There is something for every budget. Hostels and guesthouses are perfect for individuals on a budget. Apart from being cheap, it offers a friendly vibe.
On the other hand, individuals with low budget flexibility may consider luxury resorts and hotels. It hosts better amenities than hostels or guesthouses.
It is especially in Cusco you may find better places to live on a budget. You can also explore online options by comparing the cost. Check whether booking it online is cheaper than offline. If yes, do it now. However, the cost may increase according to the people on the trip.
Don’t worry if down with cash. Check affordable holiday loans for your needs. It helps you finance any cost regarding the trip including the accommodation part. You can either bridge or use it to fund the full amount of the stay. Later, you may repay the dues in instalments.
2) Use a cheaper route to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is a popular tourist destination in Peru. It is the reason behind the crowded stations and the place. Most individuals follow the same route and end up in traffic. However, you can choose a hydraulic route, which is a 6-hour bus ride from Cuzco to the Hydraulic station. From the Hydraulic station, you can consider a three-hour walk to reach Aguas Calientes.
If not possible, check for public transport to reach the destination. From there, you may get a 10-minute bus ride as a round trip to Machu Picchu. It is one of the best archaeological sites to explore as a must-visit aspect. You can also check for vouchers to travel to archaeological sites and supported museums. It reduces your exploration bill.
3) Save money by using local transport
Individuals living near Peru may prefer exploring the country by car. Some may consider hiring one to check on the most popular places. However, it may eventually exceed your budget.
Fuel costs and price per kilometre increase and may go beyond expectations. You may not be ready for this. Thus, it is better to use public transport to explore places in the country.
You can ask the citizens how to save money on transport costs. If you plan to stay at least 3 weeks, check whether you can get a travel card. It may help you explore the city without spending much. Here is what transportation costs may look like:
| Transportation type | Cost |
| Public transportation | €1–€4 |
| Ride sharing services | €10-€30 |
| Tour packages | €50-€200 |
Thus, you can see that public transport is quite affordable. You can consider this if you don’t have much to explore within walking distance from your accommodation.
4) Avoid high foreign currency fees
It is the basic aspect that you cannot skip when landing in a new country. Your native land’s currency would not work there. Hence, you must apply for the specific country’s currency immediately after you book the flight tickets. It may take some time to get the hands over the cash.
Moreover, inform your bank about your trip and the duration. It will help you get cash from an ATM if the current one exhausts. Otherwise, you may get stuck with cash issues in the new country. Notifying the bank will also help you get additional cash easily.
For example, if an ATM runs out of cash and you need money urgently, what would you do? Here, you can explore short-term finance facilities for instant cash. Notifying the bank will help you get approval immediately. It reduces the duration of getting cash for your specific purposes. You can get it from anywhere if you have a valid bank account and good internet connectivity. Moreover, it cancels out detailed documentation and asset requirements.
5) Explore culture on a budget
Peru’s culture is rich in every aspect. You can explore local markets, attend festivals, and relish the local food. Moreover, there is so much to know about the place now. You may spot historical places. It does not cost you much on the front. Lima’s historic centre and attractions like Plaza Mayor and Cathedral of Lima are the must-watch.
You can also try some budget-friendly dishes like Ceviche and Lomo Saltodo at markets and street food vendors. It just costs you around $3-$5 or (3.88 euros).
Bottom line
If you have been planning your itinerary to travel to Peru, the tips may help. Identify your budget and places you want to visit and compare accommodations. You may do it online on popular websites like Skyscraper. Moreover, keep cash ready and get a foreign one as you book the tickets. Delaying may affect your trip timelines.
