How Much Is 2 Weeks in Peru?

A two-week trip to Peru can cost between $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on your travel style, accommodation choices, and activities. Flights, accommodation, transportation, food, and activities account for the majority of expenses. With careful planning, you can save on flights, find affordable accommodation, and enjoy local cuisine. Meanwhile, activities like visiting Machu Picchu, exploring Lima and Cusco, and trekking the Inca Trail will make your trip unforgettable. As you prepare for your adventure, consider budgeting for miscellaneous expenses and researching the best deals to make the most of your time in Peru, and discover the secrets that await you.

Flights to and From Peru

Booking flights to and from Peru is a crucial aspect of planning your two-week adventure, with Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport serving as the primary gateway to the country. When searching for flights, consider flying into Lima and out of Cusco or vice versa, depending on your itinerary. Round-trip flights from the US or Europe can range from $800 to $2,000 or more, depending on the time of year and departure city. Be flexible with your travel dates and book in advance to secure the best deals. Additionally, consider budget airlines or error fares to save even more. With some planning and research, you can find affordable flights to and from Peru, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

Accommodation Costs in Peru

Peru's diverse accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, with prices varying greatly depending on the location, amenities, and level of service. Budget-conscious travelers can find dorms in hostels for as low as $5-10 per night, while private rooms in mid-range hotels cost around $20-40 per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can cost upwards of $100-200 per night. In popular destinations like Cusco and Machu Picchu, prices tend to be higher due to high demand. Booking in advance and negotiating prices can help travelers save money. Additionally, consider staying in locally-owned accommodations or Airbnb apartments, which often offer more authentic experiences and competitive rates.

Visa and Travel Requirements

Beyond arranging accommodations, travelers should also consider the necessary documents and requirements for their Peruvian adventure, including visas, travel insurance, and health certificates. These documents will facilitate a smooth and enjoyable journey through Peru.

Citizens of certain countries, including the US, Canada, and the UK, do not need a visa for tourism or business stays up to 183 days.

It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers medical, trip cancellation, and travel-related expenses to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances.

Depending on your travel plans, you may need to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases, such as yellow fever.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Peru to guarantee a hassle-free trip.

Transportation in Peru

Approximately 30 domestic airports and a vast network of buses, taxis, and colectivos (minivans) connect Peru's major cities, making it relatively easy to get around this vast and varied country. For short distances, taxis and colectivos are affordable and readily available, with fares starting from around 5-10 soles (approximately $1.50-$3 USD). Long-distance buses, such as Cruz del Sur and Ormeño, offer comfortable and reliable services, with prices ranging from 20-100 soles ($6-$30 USD) depending on the route and class of service. Domestic flights can be booked through airlines like LATAM and Avianca, with prices varying according to the route and season. With some planning, traversing Peru's transportation network can be a breeze, allowing you to make the most of your two-week adventure.

Food and Drink Prices

When discovering Peru's culinary scene, it's essential to understand the costs associated with eating out and purchasing from local markets. In this section, we'll delve into the prices you can expect to pay for meals at restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls, as well as the costs of fresh produce and snacks from market stalls. By doing so, you'll be able to budget effectively and make the most of your culinary adventures in Peru.

Eating Out Costs

In Peru, a meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between 20 and 40 soles ($6-12 USD) per person, with a menu del día (daily menu) often being the most affordable option. This usually includes a starter, main course, and drink. For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around 80-120 soles ($24-36 USD) per person.

Here are some approximate prices for eating out in Peru:

1. Breakfast: 10-20 soles ($3-6 USD) per person
2. Lunch: 20-40 soles ($6-12 USD) per person
3. Dinner: 30-60 soles ($10-18 USD) per person
4. Drinks: 5-15 soles ($2-5 USD) per person for juice, coffee, or beer

Market Stall Prices

At Peru's bustling markets, vendors offer a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods at competitive prices, making them an attractive option for travelers looking to eat affordably. Expect to pay around 1-2 soles (approximately $0.30-$0.60 USD) for a kilogram of fresh produce, such as papayas, bananas, or avocados. A filling and nutritious meal of street food, like anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers) or papas rellenas (stuffed potatoes), can cost between 5-10 soles ($1.50-$3.00 USD) per serving. Freshly squeezed juices and local snacks like cancha (toasted corn) or churros are also readily available for a few soles each. By shopping at markets, travelers can enjoy authentic Peruvian flavors while staying within their budget.

Activities and Tour Costs

As you plan your Peruvian adventure, it's essential to think about the costs of activities and tours that will make your trip unforgettable. From exploring the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu to hiking the scenic trails of the Andes, daily tour prices and adventure activity costs can vary widely depending on the provider, duration, and level of luxury. In this section, we'll break down the average costs of popular activities and tours to help you plan for an unforgettable experience in Peru.

Daily Tour Prices

On average, daily tour prices in Peru range from $30 to $150 per person, depending on the type and duration of the activity or tour. These costs can add up quickly, but they're often worth it for the unforgettable experiences you'll have. Here are some examples of daily tour prices in Peru:

1. City tours: $30-$50 per person, typically lasting 3-4 hours
2. Ruins and archaeological site visits: $40-$70 per person, often including transportation and a guide
3. Food and market tours: $50-$80 per person, usually including samples and drinks
4. Scenic train rides: $70-$150 per person, depending on the route and class of service

Keep in mind that these prices are just estimates, and you may be able to find better deals or negotiate with tour operators.

Adventure Activity Costs

Beyond exploring Peru's cultural heritage, many travelers flock to this South American country to experience its vast array of adventure activities. From trekking the Inca Trail to surfing the Pacific coast, adventure seekers will find plenty of opportunities to get their adrenaline fix. Costs for these activities vary, but here are some rough estimates: a guided Inca Trail trek can range from $600 to $1,200 per person, while a surfing lesson in Lima can cost around $20 to $50 per session. White-water rafting in Cusco may set you back around $50 to $100 per person, and paragliding in Lima can cost upwards of $100 per flight. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for cheaper alternatives, such as hiking in the Andes or cycling in the Sacred Valley, which can be done for under $20 per person.

Exploring Lima and Cusco

Two of Peru's most iconic cities, Lima and Cusco, offer a wealth of cultural and historical riches waiting to be unearthed. From the vibrant streets of Lima to the ancient Inca ruins of Cusco, these cities are a rich repository of experiences.

1. Lima's Historic Center: Discover the Plaza de Armas, Cathedral of Lima, and Government Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Cusco's San Blas Neighborhood: Wander the narrow streets and alleys, discovering local artisans, cafes, and stunning views of the city.
3. Lima's Museo Nacional de Antropología: Uncover the history and culture of Peru's ancient civilizations.
4. Cusco's Sacsayhuamán Fortress: Marvel at the ancient Inca stonework and stunning views of the city.

These experiences will give you a deeper understanding of Peru's rich cultural heritage, setting the stage for your adventure in the country.

Machu Picchu and Inca Trail

Venturing into the Andean highlands, the mystical aura of Machu Picchu and the legendary Inca Trail beckon, promising an unforgettable adventure amidst Peru's most breathtaking landscapes. For the Inca Trail, plan to spend around $600-$700 per person for a 4-day, 3-night trek, including guide, porter, and camping fees. Alternatively, take a train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu on your own, with tickets starting at $70 per person. Consider purchasing a Machu Picchu ticket in advance, as availability is limited. For accommodation, opt for budget-friendly hostels in Aguas Calientes, with prices starting at $20 per night. With careful planning, you can experience the majesty of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail without breaking the bank.

Budgeting for Miscellaneous Expenses

Roughly 20-30% of your overall Peru trip budget will be allocated to miscellaneous expenses, including food, transportation, and souvenirs. These costs can add up quickly, so it's essential to plan ahead. The following estimated costs must be factored in:

1. Food: $15-25 per meal, with street food and markets offering more affordable options.
2. Transportation: $1-5 for local bus fares, and $20-50 for inter-city buses.
3. Souvenirs: $10-20 for traditional handicrafts and textiles.
4. Other expenses: $10-20 for incidentals, such as laundry and tips.

Remember to budget for these costs to provide a stress-free and enjoyable trip in Peru. With some planning, you can make the most of your time and money in this incredible country.