From its ancient mysteries and breathtaking landscapes to its vibrant culture, Peru is the country that calls to adventurers from all over the world. But the good news is one does not have to break the bank while exploring this South American gem. With affordable accommodations, delicious street food, and cultural attractions of no cost, Peru epitomizes the ultimate broke backpacker dream destination.
Everything from the tough stairs of the Inca Trail to the busy and winding streets of Lima is explored without exception. Dive into the sacred energy of Machu Picchu, sample bold flavors of ceviche and Pisco sours, and connect with warm hospitality-people of Peru with no dent in your savings.
It is equally true, however, that Machu Picchu has fallen prey to its popularity, especially during the period of the year when large numbers of tourists converge on the site. It sometimes seems that you are going to be in a theme park rather than a hallowed Inca citadel. For more natural experiences, try visiting less-visited Inca sites, such as Choquequirao, Kuelap, or Túcume. These hidden retreats offer great architecture, stunning natural surroundings, and a peep into Peru’s rich cultural heritage-but not crowds.
In this blog, take a journey with us through highs and lows of broke backpacking in Peru-sharing inside knowledge on where to stay for cheaper, what to do, and where to go that isn’t in your guidebook. We’ll dive deep into the country’s rich cultural heritage-from colonial towns to indigenous communities-and show how one can experience the best of Peru without breaking one’s bank.
Slung on your backpack, get your Spanish phrasebook out of the closet, and get ready for one heck of an unforgettable adventure through the Land of the Incas.
How to get there:
From Ecuador
- Bus: Take a bus from Quito or Guayaquil to the Peru-Ecuador border at Macará (approx. 8-10 hours, $10-20 USD).
- Cross the border on foot and continue to Piura or Lima by bus (approx. 12-18 hours, $20-40 USD).
- Companies like Ormeño, Cruz del Sur, and Expreso Internacional offer direct bus services.
From Colombia
- Bus: Travel from Bogotá or Cali to the Peru-Colombia border at Leticia (approx. 24-30 hours, $30-60 USD).
- Take a ferry across the Amazon River and continue to Iquitos or Lima by bus (approx. 24-36 hours, $40-80 USD).
- Companies like Expreso Brasilia and Ormeño operate bus services.
From Bolivia
- Bus: Take a bus from La Paz or Copacabana to the Peru-Bolivia border at Desaguadero (approx. 4-6 hours, $5-10 USD).
- Cross the border on foot and continue to Puno or Cusco by bus (approx. 6-12 hours, $10-25 USD).
- Companies like Ormeño and Cruz del Sur offer direct bus services.
From Chile
- Bus: Travel from Santiago or Arica to the Peru-Chile border at Tacna (approx. 24-30 hours, $30-60 USD).
- Continue to Lima or Arequipa by bus (approx. 12-18 hours, $20-40 USD).
- Companies like Ormeño and Expreso Internacional operate bus services.
From Brazil
Companies like Expreso Brasilia and Ormeño operate bus services.
Bus: Take a bus from Rio de Janeiro or Lima to the Peru-Brazil border at Assis Brasil (approx. 36-48 hours, $60-100 USD).
Cross the border on foot and continue to Iquitos or Lima by bus (approx. 24-36 hours, $40-80 USD).
When to go:
Weather and Climate
- Coastal region: Mild winters (June-September), hot summers (December-February)
- Andean highlands: Cool winters (June-September), mild summers (December-February)
- Amazon rainforest: Hot and humid year-round
Peak Season (June-August)
- Pros:
- Dry weather
- Clear skies
- Festivals and events
- Cons:
- Higher prices
- Crowds
- Limited accommodation options
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-November)
- Pros:
- Mild weather
- Fewer crowds
- Lower prices
- Cons:
- Occasional rain
- Some tourist attractions closed
Off-Season (December-March)
- Pros:
- Lowest prices
- Fewer tourists
- Lush landscapes
- Cons:
- Heavy rainfall
- Some roads and attractions closed
Best Times for Specific Activities
Festivals and events: June (Inti Raymi), July (Fiestas Patrias)
Hiking: Dry season (May-September)
Surfing: Coastal regions (April-September)
Amazon rainforest exploration: Dry season (June-September)
Best Itineraries:
3-Day Itinerary: Lima and Surroundings
Day 1: Lima
- Explore historic center (free)
- Visit Plaza de Armas (free)
- Try ceviche at a local market ($3-5 USD)
Day 2: Huaca Pucllana and Miraflores
- Visit Huaca Pucllana archaeological site ($2-3 USD)
- Walk along Miraflores malecón (free)
- Enjoy sunset at Parque Kennedy (free)
Day 3: Pachacamac and Barranco
- Visit Pachacamac ancient ruins ($2-3 USD)
- Explore Barranco’s bohemian neighborhood (free)
- Enjoy street food and local beer ($5-10 USD)
Budget: $50-100 USD
1-Week Itinerary: Southern Peru
Day 1-2: Lima
- Explore Lima’s historic center and markets
Day 3-4: Nazca and Huacachina
- Visit Nazca Lines ($20-30 USD)
- Relax in Huacachina oasis ($10-20 USD)
Day 5-6: Arequipa
- Explore Arequipa’s colonial center (free)
- Visit Misti volcano ($10-20 USD)
Day 7: Return to Lima
Budget: $200-400 USD
2-Week Itinerary: Inca Trail and Cusco
Day 1-3: Lima
- Explore Lima’s historic center and markets
Day 4-6: Cusco
- Visit Sacsayhuamán and Q’enqo ruins ($10-20 USD)
- Explore Cusco’s historic center (free)
Day 7-9: Inca Trail
- Hike the Inca Trail ($50-70 USD)
Day 10-14: Machu Picchu and surrounding areas
- Visit Machu Picchu ($20-30 USD)
- Explore Aguas Calientes hot springs ($5-10 USD)
Budget: $500-1,000 USD
1-Month Itinerary: Peru’s Hidden Gems
Week 1: Northern Peru
- Visit Túcume and Batán Grande ruins ($10-20 USD)
- Explore Piura’s coastal city (free)
Week 2: Central Peru
- Visit Huancayo’s vibrant market (free)
- Explore the Andean highlands ($20-50 USD)
Week 3: Southern Peru
- Visit Arequipa’s colonial center (free)
- Relax in Huacachina oasis ($10-20 USD)
Week 4: Amazon Rainforest
- Stay in an eco-lodge ($20-50 USD/night)
- Explore the Amazon River ($50-100 USD)
Budget: $1,500-3,000 USD
3-Month Itinerary: The Ultimate Peru Adventure
Month 1: Coastal Peru
- Visit Lima, Trujillo, and Piura
- Explore coastal ruins and beaches
Month 2: Andean Highlands
- Visit Cusco, Machu Picchu, and surrounding areas
- Hike the Inca Trail and explore local villages
Month 3: Amazon Rainforest and Eastern Peru
- Stay in eco-lodges and explore the Amazon River
- Visit Iquitos and Tarapoto
Transportation:
Peru’s extensive public transportation network makes exploring this vibrant country accessible and affordable. As a broke backpacker, understanding your options will save you money and enhance your adventure.
Types of Public Transportation
- Buses (Autobuses): Connect major cities, towns, and rural areas.
- Microbuses (Combis): Smaller buses for shorter routes.
- Taxis: Affordable, but negotiate prices beforehand.
- Colectivos: Shared vans or cars.
- Motorcycles (Mototaxis): Cheap, but less safe.
- Trains: Limited routes, mostly tourist-focused.
Bus Companies
- Ormeño: Nationwide coverage.
- Cruz del Sur: Connects major cities.
- Expreso Internacional: International routes.
- Oltursa: Coastal routes.
Bus Stations (Terminales)
- Lima: Multiple terminals for different regions.
- Cusco: Terminal Terrestre.
- Arequipa: Terminal Terrestre.
Ticket Prices
Overnight buses: $20-50 USD
Short distances (1-3 hours): $2-5 USD
Medium distances (3-6 hours): $5-10 USD
Long distances (6-12 hours): $10-20 USD
Top things to do:
Lima and Surroundings
- Explore historic center (free)
- Visit Plaza de Armas (free)
- Try ceviche at a local market ($3-5 USD)
- Huaca Pucllana archaeological site ($2-3 USD)
- Miraflores malecón (free)
- Barranco’s bohemian neighborhood (free)
- Pachacamac ancient ruins ($2-3 USD)
- Museo Nacional de Antropología ($2-3 USD)
- Parque Kennedy (free)
- Lima’s Central Market (free)
- Chinatown (Barrio Chino) (free)
- Cathedral of Lima (free)
- San Francisco Church and Monastery ($2-3 USD)
- Museo de Arte de Lima ($5-10 USD)
Norte Chico and North Coast
- Trujillo’s colonial center (free)
- Chan Chan ancient ruins ($2-3 USD)
- Huanchaco beach town (free)
- Túcume and Batán Grande ruins ($10-20 USD)
- Piura’s vibrant market (free)
- Catacaos handicraft market (free)
- Señor de Sipán Museum ($5-10 USD)
- Chiclayo’s Mercado Modelo (free)
- El Brujo archaeological site ($5-10 USD)
- Huaca del Sol y la Luna ($5-10 USD)
- Pacasmayo beach town (free)
Andean Highlands
- Cusco’s historic center (free)
- Sacsayhuamán and Q’enqo ruins ($10-20 USD)
- Machu Picchu ($20-30 USD)
- Sacred Valley ($10-20 USD)
- Aguas Calientes hot springs ($5-10 USD)
- Ollantaytambo fortress ($10-20 USD)
- Pisac market (free)
- Moray agricultural terraces ($5-10 USD)
- Rainbow Mountain ($10-20 USD)
- Chinchero textile town (free)
- Maras salt mines ($5-10 USD)
- Andean villages (e.g., Misminay, Q’eswachaka) (free)
South Coast and Arequipa
- Nazca Lines ($20-30 USD)
- Huacachina oasis ($10-20 USD)
- Arequipa’s colonial center (free)
- Misti volcano ($10-20 USD)
- Colca Canyon ($20-30 USD)
- Valle de los Volcanes ($10-20 USD)
- Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve (free)
- Andagua village ($5-10 USD)
- Cotahuasi Canyon ($20-30 USD)
- Toro Muerto petroglyphs ($5-10 USD)
- Yura village ($5-10 USD)
Amazon Rainforest
- Stay in an eco-lodge ($20-50 USD/night)
- Explore the Amazon River ($50-100 USD)
- Visit Iquitos and Tarapoto
- Spot wildlife (monkeys, macaws, etc.)
- Hike to waterfalls and swimming holes
- Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve ($50-100 USD)
- Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve ($20-50 USD)
- Amazonian indigenous communities ($10-20 USD)
- Manu National Park ($50-100 USD)
- Tambopata National Reserve ($50-100 USD)
- Iquitos’ floating houses ($5-10 USD)
Other Destinations
Kuelap fortress ($20-30 USD)
Lake Titicaca ($10-20 USD)
Juliaca market (free)
Puno’s cultural center (free)
Ayacucho’s colonial center (free)
Huancavelica’s historic center (free)
Huaraz’s scenic views (free)
Cordillera Blanca mountain range ($20-50 USD)
Chavín de Huántar ruins ($10-20 USD)
Food:
The reflections of Peru’s cultural diversity breathe life into its culinary landscape. No other place on Earth has so inimitably combined the flavors and fragrances of the indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences into this culinary dream. The base of Peruvian cuisine no doubt goes to its indigenous roots. Staple ingredients include potatoes, corn, and quinoa. European flavors and techniques came with the Spanish conquest, while African and Asian immigrations introduced their own gastronomical traditions.
Ceviche is probably one of Peru’s most iconic dishes, and it happens to be refreshing, primarily made of fresh seafood in citrus juices, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and aji amarillo peppers. Other staples include lomo saltado-a savory stir-fry of beef, vegetables, French fries, and rice.
For Peruvians, street food is part of the culture. In modestly-sized markets and food stalls, a string of options are available: from the crispiest anticuchos to the savory papas rellenas-stuffed potatoes-at very affordable prices.
The regional specialties of Peru reflect the geographic diversity of the country. Exotic fruits and spices inspire dishes such as ají de gallina-a yellow pepper sauce with shredded chicken-from the Amazon region. Hearty stews, such as caldo verde, come from the Andean highlands. Coastal regions feature the freshest seafood, while more traditional dishes originating in the desert south include carapulcra, a stew made with dried potatoes.
The bold and innovative conjunction of flavors is the crowning glory of Peruvian cuisine. On the whole, contemporary restaurants meld traditional ingredients with modern techniques to create innovative dishes such as grilled octopus with aji amarillo sauce or quinoa-crusted seafood. No gastronomic tour would ever be complete without a taste of the local drinks. Pisco is a spirit made from grapes, whereby mixes are made into the classic Pisco Sour cocktail. Chicha morada, sweet purple corn drink refreshes the palate.
Food in Peru is a visual temptation-one riot of colors, smells, and flavors. Every meal is an opportunity, either in bustling markets or top-class restaurants, to learn part of the rich cultural heritage of this country.
Culture:
Peruvian culture is a vibrant and multi-layered platform of tradition and customs, further influenced by the immensely intricate history of the country and its great geographical diversity. This rich heritage is reflected in the people, art, music, literature, and even in the day-to-day existence.
Family and community are very much at the heart of the culture of Peru. At its core, it is a society of close families and tight social groups, with deep respect for elders and tradition. This sense of community is echoed in the lively and festive festivals and celebrations.
Deep are the indigenous roots in Peru, and around every corner, something different about the Inca Empire greets modernity. The presence of the languages of Quechua and Aymara, spoken by millions, bears testimony to this enduring heritage. Skilled artisans produce beautiful traditional textiles, ceramics, and handicrafts that represent the delightful doings of the country.
Spanish colonization brought European mores, Catholicism, and the arts, which mingled with indigenous traditions in a peculiar way. The African and Asian immigrations further enhanced this cocktail, especially in music and dance. Music and dance form an important part of the culture of Peru-through its boisterous rhythms and gracefulness, it reflects the passion and vitality of the country. The marinera is a very romantic coastal dance, while the jaivy is a joie de vivre Andean tune.
Literature is an important part of Peruvian culture, with well-known writers like César Vallejo, José María Eguren, and Mario Vargas Llosa adding to the country’s literary heritage. History and myths are preserved in the oral traditions of the indigenous people.
Peruvian art is alive with colors and intricate patterns, holding an emotional charge. This country’s evolution in art ranges from Pre-Columbian pottery to paintings from colonial times to modern-day pieces of work.
As an important part of Peruvian tradition, festivals and celebrations in honor of patron saints, historical dates, and seasonal changes are an integral part of this country. Other festivals celebrated in Peru are Inti Raymi, Fiestas de la Vendimia, showcasing the country’s joie de vivre or love of life.
Warm hospitality, vivacious markets, and everyday hustle and bustle on the streets-these all make daily life in Peru special. Traditional food with large servings of steaming hot flavors and foods crowns everything.
The culture of Peru has shown resilience and adaptability, which have allowed it not only to survive but also to shine with brightness despite centuries of intervention. The dynamic cultural landscape keeps on evolving, embracing modernity while it respectfully remembers its rich heritage.
Accommodations:
Those Peruvian hostels, on the other hand, are way more than just a place to rest; they’re lively spots where travelers connect, share stories, and breathe in the local culture. The moment you step into the threshold of these welcoming spaces, you get a sense of the energetic and social atmosphere that defines Peru’s hostels.
Upon arrival, you are very likely to receive a warm welcome from the staff: often with a refreshing welcome drink or even a snack native to the new surroundings. This simply sets the tone for your stay: friendly, laid-back, and ready to help. What’s great is that many of these hostels are family-run or locally-owned; hence, every bit of your experience is tinged with a personal touch.
The common areas bustle with action as travelers share tales of adventure, plan the next destination, or simply chill out with a cold beer or local cocktail. Impromptu guitar sessions, cooking classes, and game nights may erupt, and the camaraderie is infectious.
Bright textiles, traditional works of art, or eclectic ornaments give dorms and private rooms the flavor of the vibrant culture of Peru. Amenities vary, but most provide clean facilities, comfortable beds, and reliable Wi-Fi.
Social parties and activities are staple features of hostels in Peru. Take part in guided city tours, cooking classes, or boisterous salsa nights. All these organized events give one the chance to get along, explore, and catch the local heartbeat.
Peruvian hostels very often help the local community and sustainable development. Expect eco-friendly projects, local collaborations, and a serious approach to responsible tourism.
As you make your way through different regions of Peru, the hostel personalities change. Coastal towns house hostels that are laid-back and surf-inspired, while Andean towns have cozier, rustically charming hostels. Most Amazonian hostels tend to merge with the rainforest.
In Peruvian hostels, the line separating the traveler from the local gets well and truly blurred. You’ll find yourself wrapped in warm hospitality as you share up a meal or two with your fellow travelers and the staff, gaining insider knowledge into the more hidden treasures of Peru.
Nightlife:
The nightlife in Peru is always alive, reflecting the life of the nation and the infectious spirit of this South American country. Every region-from the coastal towns to Andean cities-offers something different.
As soon as the sun dips into the Pacific, Peru’s streets become a kaleidoscope of sound and color. Bars spring up, as do clubs and lounges, beckoning revelers with alluring music and tantalizing cocktails.
The capital of Peru-Lima-sets the beat to its nightlife. Preeminent-named districts such as Miraflores and Barranco boast swanky bars and clubs, while bohemian neighbourhoods reverberate with live music and alternative energy.
In coastal towns, the surfer culture takes precedence after sunset, with everything from beach bars through open-air clubs hosting jam sessions and impromptu beach parties.
A different atmosphere altogether characterizes the Andean highlands. Cities like Cusco and Arequipa explode in different tones with traditional music and dance, mixed with modern flair. The Peruvian Amazon regions are places full of exotism, which means that nightlife impregnated with jungle spirit almost always exists. Almost all bars and clubs in both Iquitos and Tarapoto play live music: salsa, reggaeton, and tropical rhythms.
There is, however, one common denominator to Peruvian nightlife everywhere: the warmth in its hospitality and readiness to dance to the hours of dawn. Locals and travelers come together on the dance floor, losing themselves to rhythm and joy.
Peruvian nightlife is a feast for the senses: enticement of smells of local food, breathtaking cityscapes, and electric music. In the progressive development of the night, energy rises, reaches heights in those unforgettable moments of sharing and celebration.
Backpacking costs:
Daily Expenses:
- Accommodation: $3-5 (hostel dorm)
- Food: $3-4 (street food/local markets)
- Transportation: $1-2 (local bus)
- Activities: $2-3 (free/cheap attractions)
- Other: $2-3 (water/miscellaneous)
Total Daily Budget: $12.50
Weekly Budget: $87.50 – $100.00
Conclusion:
As you make your broke backpacking tour through Peru, know this: travel isn’t about seeing things; it’s really about experiences, connections, and growth furthered by a shove outside of the comfort zone.
Of course, Peru is going to be their ideal destination, with its cultural heritage, landscapes that take your breath away, and warm hospitality.
By embracing both the challenges and the fun of budget travel, you will find an inner resilience and resourcefulness, real relationships with locals and other travelers, and come across many places that no tourist trails touch.
It is a transformational journey through personal growth and self-discovery in Peru-just moments that are unforgettable.
While walking through the busy streets, breathtaking views, and friendly neighborhoods, stay interested, open-minded, and receptive to the beauty around you.
It awaits in Peru, and it might just be the ultimate adventure.
