Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime with our Peru Travel Guide, where every moment in this incredible country offers something unforgettable. From the lively streets of Lima to the peaceful northern beaches, soar over the mysterious Nazca Lines, explore the Sacred Valley, and trek the iconic Inca Trail to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Experience the tranquil beauty of Lake Titicaca and the wild wonders of the Amazon. Our Peru Travel Guide, along with our blog posts, will inspire you to discover the history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes that make Peru a truly extraordinary destination.

Peru Trip Planning & Costs

CURRENCY

In Peru, the official currency is the sol (PEN), with US dollars often accepted in popular tourist spots. As you explore beyond the cities, especially in remote regions, it’s wise to carry cash as ATMs and electronic banking services can be scarce. Embrace the adventure, and having a mix of soles and small bills will ensure you’re ready for vibrant markets, local experiences, and unforgettable moments off the beaten path.

WHEN TO TRAVEL

For those dreaming of endless sunshine and clear skies, the dry season from May to September is perfect, making it the ideal time to trek the Inca Trail and discover the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. If you crave a quieter, more serene experience with fewer crowds and better prices, the rainy season from November to March offers a peaceful escape, with only a few afternoon showers to cool you down. Adventure seekers will find the dry season perfect for outdoor exploration, while cultural travellers can enjoy a slower pace during the off-season to fully immerse themselves in Peru’s rich history and vibrant cities. The best time to visit is ultimately about choosing whether you want the ideal weather or a more tranquil, budget-friendly adventure.

We explored Peru in November and found it was a great compromise between weather, affordability, and volume of tourists. The coastal areas were high teens to mid-20’s Celsius and highlands were high single digits to mid-teens with occasional rain showers. Crowds were almost non-existent and great deals on accommodations were easy to come by.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Peru offers a variety of accommodation options, catering to all budgets, from affordable hostels to luxurious resorts. Costs can vary by location and time of year, with budget-friendly choices abundant in cities like Cusco and Arequipa, while more upscale options are found near popular destinations like the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. No matter your budget or preferences, you’ll find the perfect place to rest and recharge during your Peruvian adventure. Here’s a sample guide to what you can expect to pay for various types of accommodation as of 2025 (in USD), based on double occupancy.

Budget:

Budget accommodations in Peru include hostels, guesthouses, and simple hotels (usually 1-to-2 star). These typically range from $12 to $35 per night and offer basic amenities, such as shared dormitories or private rooms with shared bathrooms. Budget stays may also include a simple breakfast.

Mid-Range:

Mid-range stays typically include 3-star hotels and boutique guesthouses that generally cost between $35 and $90 per night, providing more comfort, private bathrooms, and amenities like Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Luxury:

Luxury accommodations usually include 4-star hotels and definitely 5-star hotels and resorts. These deluxe stays can range from $120 to $350+ per night and offer high-end services, premium locals, and added luxuries such as spas and fine dining.

Amazon Eco-lodges:

Amazon-based eco-lodges offer unique experiences and opportunities to immerse in the ecological wonder of the region. These stays typically cost between $60 and $200 per night, often with all-inclusive packages that cover meals and guided tours.

Homestays:

Homestays are typically located in rural and indigenous communities, such as on the Uros Islands, the Sacred Valley, and Colca Canyon. These stays offer affordable, authentic experiences and immersion into Peruvian culture, ranging from $12 to $40 per night.

MEALS

Dining out in Peru is an adventure in itself, with a world of flavours waiting to be discovered, no matter your budget. From the bustling streets of Lima to the charming cafes in Cusco, Peru offers an array of dining experiences that can inspire your taste buds and create unforgettable memories. Below is a glimpse into Peru dining as of 2025 for various budgets (in USD).

Street Food & Local Markets:

Peru’s vibrant street food culture offers a chance to dive into authentic flavours that tell the story of the country’s rich heritage. Enjoy mouthwatering Anticuchos (grilled skewers) or creamy Papa a la Huancaína for an incredible price. It’s the perfect way to eat like a local and explore the heart of Peru.

• • $1 – $4 per item
  • $3 – $7 per person

Local Eateries:

Step into a cozy local restaurant where home-cooked favourites like Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef) or Aji de Gallina (creamy chicken stew) are served with warmth and hospitality. These humble spots offer some of the best and most comforting meals in Peru.

• • $5 – $10 per person

Casual Sit-Down Restaurants:

For those looking to indulge in both traditional Peruvian flavours and international fusion, mid-range restaurants offer the perfect balance. A casual meal can turn into an exploration of Peru’s diverse culinary landscape, from fresh Ceviche to innovative dishes blending local ingredients with global techniques.

• • $10 – $20 per person

Upscale Restaurants:

Peru has become a gastronomic destination, with world-class restaurants leading the way in innovative, boundary-pushing cuisine. These dining experiences are perfect for those who want to celebrate the art of food, where each dish is a work of art and each bite is a journey.

• • $30 – $70+ per person

DRINKS

In Peru, every sip is an invitation to explore the rich flavours and vibrant culture of this incredible country. Whether you’re toasting with a Pisco Sour in a cozy café or enjoying a refreshing Inca Kola as you stroll through the streets, the variety of drinks here offers something to elevate every moment of your journey. Below is a taste of what to expect for drinks in Peru’s restaurants as of 2025 (in USD).

Soft Drinks: $1 – $2

Small Bottled Water: $0.75 – $1.50

Fresh Juices: $2 – $4

Local Beers: $2 – $4 per bottle or glass

Imported Beers: $4 – $7

House Wine (by the glass or half-bottle): Peruvian or international $3 – $7

Bottle of Wine: $10 – $40

Pisco Sour, Peru’s iconic cocktail: $5 – $9

TIPPING

While not mandatory, a 10-15% tip is a kind gesture at restaurants to show appreciation for excellent service and food. Check your bill as some restaurants, especially in tourist areas, will add a 10% service charge that goes towards tips for staff but if service is exceptional, feel free to top it up to show your gratitude! For taxis, rounding up the fare is a common practice. Tipping $1 – $2 to bellhops or housekeepers is appreciated, and suggested for tour guides is around $5-$10 per person (depending on the experience and duration). Tipping in Peru is seen as a kind gesture, rewarding excellent service and showing gratitude for the warm hospitality.

TRANSPORTATION

Travelling around Peru offers a variety of options to suit different budgets, whether you’re exploring bustling cities or heading to remote destinations. Below is a snapshot of current transportation costs in 2025 (in USD).

City Taxis:

In major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, taxi fares typically start at around $1.50 – $2 for the first kilometre, with an additional $0.50 – $1 per km after that. Overall, short city rides usually cost around $3 – $6.

App-Based Taxis (e.g., Uber, InDrive):

These services often provide more predictable pricing, with typical fares starting at around $2 – $3 for short trips within cities. Longer trips can range from $10 – $20, depending on traffic and distance.

City Buses:

In urban areas, public buses are affordable, costing around $0.30 – $0.80 for a single ride, depending on the city.

Intercity Buses:

Long-distance bus travel is a popular and economical way to get around Peru. For example, a bus ride from Lima to Cusco can cost around $25 – $40 USD for a standard class ticket. Travel times vary, with Lima to Cusco taking around 20 to 24 hours.

Domestic Flights:

Air travel in Peru is fast and relatively affordable. A one-way flight from Lima to Cusco, Arequipa, or Iquitos typically costs between $50 – $130 depending on the time of booking, season, and airline.

Mototaxis:

In smaller towns and rural areas, mototaxis (three-wheeled motorcycles) are a popular mode of transport, usually costing $1 – $3 for short trips within town.

Trains:

Peru’s iconic train journeys, such as the one from Cusco to Machu Picchu (via PeruRail or IncaRail), starts at around $60 for standard services (and considerably more for premium).

Plan on driving in Peru?

Overall, traffic laws seem to be more of a suggestion than a rule, with drivers embracing the art of creative lane changes, spontaneous U-turns, and the occasional game of “how close can I get to that other car without touching it?”. Horns are used as a friendly greeting, a warning, and sometimes a celebration. If you’re in a taxi, buckle up—there’s a good chance your driver will treat every red light as a mere pause for dramatic effect. But hey, it’s all part of the adventure, right? Just remember to hold on tight and go with the flow!

PEAK VS OFF-SEASON PRICING

Prices can rise significantly during peak season (June to September), especially in tourist-heavy areas like Cusco and Machu Picchu, while the off-peak season (November to March) offers lower rates but may be impacted by rainy weather. Peru offers options for every budget – from basic to luxurious travel experiences. We do recommend booking in advance, especially during the high season.