COST Of A Trip To Machu Picchu Peru 2024 (Our Experience)

Average cost of a trip to Machu Picchu Peru

Visiting Machu Picchu is often perceived as an expensive trip, but with careful planning The Cost of a trip to Machu Picchu can be affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Costs will vary based on My Personal experience as a Digital Nomad Traveling the world full time for over 7 years and figuring out the secrets to Visiting Peru On a budget, in this guide i will provide helpful videos that will provide more information along with this guide:

Transportation

• Local bus from Cusco – $12-15 each way
• Peru Rail Expedition train – $100 roundtrip
• Inca Trail with tour agency – $500-$800

Buses take 5+ hours but are the cheapest option. The Expedition train offers an affordable rail option. Booking the Inca Trail via a budget tour company can reduce costs.

Entry Tickets & Permits

• Machu Picchu entrance – $65 (one day)
• Huayna Picchu – $12 additional for permit
• Student discounts available

Purchase tickets in advance online to secure entry. Student tickets help reduce costs.

Lodging

• Dorm bed in Aguas Calientes – $10-$15 per night
• Budget hotel in Aguas Calientes – $30-$60 per night
• Stay in Cusco – $15-$40 per night for dorms or budget hotels

Stay outside Machu Picchu in Cusco or Ollantaytambo for more affordable accommodation.

Food

• Local restaurants & markets in Aguas Calientes – $3-$8 per meal also get groceries to
• Grocery supplies from Cusco – $2-$5 per meal

Eat affordable meals. Bringing your own groceries and snacks helps save.

Tour vs Independent

• Self-guided using public transportation – $100-$150 for permits, transport and lodging per day
• Budget group tour – $150-$300 per person per day

Independent travel costs less but requires more effort. Group tours take care of planning. but we personally do it ourselves because its cheaper.

Here is over 100 Tours on Get Your Guide if you are interested in amazing tours near Machu Picchu:

With budget options for Backpackers, Mid range travelers, Luxury Travelers, costs for a Machu Picchu trip can range:

• Backpacker Budget (per week): $500-$800
• Backpacker Budget (per month): $1000-$1600
• Mid-Range Budget (per week): $700-$3000
• Mid-Range Budget (per month): $1200-$4800
• Luxury Experience (per week): $3000+
• Luxury Experience (per month): $3000+

Stretching your trip to 2-4 weeks and basing in Cusco or Ollantaytambo can significantly reduce costs across all budget ranges. With smart planning, Machu Picchu can be an affordable dream destination.

Inca Trail

• Permit – $200 per person
• Guide – $100-$150 for an independent guide (required)
• Food – $3-$5 per meal if bringing your own supplies
• Camping gear – Bring your own or rent for $50
• Porter (optional) – $80-$100 for the 4 days to carry gear

Total for a 4-day Inca Trail hike: Approximately $500-$600 per person

You can also research ways to make it cheaper

Alternative Trails

Other options like Salkantay Trek and Lares Trek require less advanced booking than the Inca Trail.

• Permit – $10-$30 per person
• Guide – $100-$150 for an independent guide (recommended)
• Lodging & food – Staying in local guesthouses and preparing your own meals helps save costs substantially over booking organized tours.

Total for a 5-day Salkantay Trek: Approximately $300-$400 per person

Keeping trip costs low requires being flexible on lodging, using public transportation like local buses and trains when possible, and doing activities like hiking independently instead of with a tour group. But it provides a more authentic experience.

also buying food in local markets and cooking helps keep costs down even at this popular tourist destination. With planning, Machu Picchu can be affordable.

Table Of Contents

Transportation to and Around Machu Picchu

Reaching Machu Picchu requires getting to Cusco first, then taking a train, bus or hiking one of the trails from Cusco or nearby towns. Here is a breakdown of transportation options and costs:

From Cusco

Several train companies like PeruRail and IncaRail run from Cusco to Aguas Calientes below Machu Picchu:

• Expedition Train – Most affordable at $100 roundtrip
• Vistadome Train – Mid-range option at $232 roundtrip
• Hiram Bingham – Luxury train starting at $680 roundtrip

Public buses from Cusco cost around $15-25 each way. IncaRail and PeruRail also offer bus-train combo tickets for $150-$250 roundtrip.

Hiking the famous 26-mile Inca Trail with a permit ($200 per person) and tour operator costs $500-$800 total for a 4-day trek. Books up quickly so reserve 6+ months out.

Within Machu Picchu, you can take the shuttle bus for $12 roundtrip or walk 2-3 hours between entrances.

From Ollantaytambo

Catch a local bus for $8 each way or the train starting around $70 roundtrip to Aguas Calientes.

Doing an independent Inca Trail or Lares Trek hike with just a permit, local guide and basic lodging costs $300-$500 total. Ollantaytambo is 1.5 hours from Machu Picchu.

From Urubamba

Buses ($10-15 each way) or mototaxis ($20 to Ollantaytambo) provide transport to train stations or the Sacred Valley. Urubamba is another good budget base.

From Santa Teresa

Local buses ($8 each way) and taxis ($10) offer direct transport to Machu Picchu from Santa Teresa. The cheapest option.

Budget Transport Tips

Ways to reduce transport costs:

• Take local public transit
• Book the cheapest train class
• Hike independently instead of with a tour
• Stay in less touristy towns like Santa Teresa

Being flexible on where you stay and using local transit saves substantially on getting to Machu Picchu.

Cost of Travel Insurance in Machu Picchu

Having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Machu Picchu, Peru to protect against any unexpected incidents. SafetyWing is an excellent option tailored to global travelers and digital nomads.

Why Choose SafetyWing?

SafetyWing makes travel insurance easy and affordable at just $45-250/month. Here are some key reasons to consider it:

• Global coverage including exotic destinations
• Flexible policies fit nomadic lifestyles
• Easy sign-up and claims from phone/computer
• Covers medical, evacuations, disruptions, baggage, etc.
• 24/7 customer support anywhere
• Customizable coverage amounts and add-ons

Other Peru Travel Insurance Options

While SafetyWing is a top choice, companies like WorldNomads, Cigna Global, and IMG also offer comprehensive travel insurance for Peru. Typical policies range from $45-500 for 2 weeks to a month of coverage. Compare coverage and premium costs.

Some key considerations for a Machu Picchu policy:

• Emergency medical and evacuation
• Trip cancellation/interruption
• Lost/delayed baggage
• Adventure sports coverage
• Altitude sickness coverage
• 24/7 emergency assistance

Peru Insurance Cost Estimates

Entry Tickets and Permits to Machu Picchu and Surrounding Hikes

Machu Picchu’s popularity means access is limited by a permit system. Here’s what you need to know:

Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket

• $65 (adult) or $23 (student) for 1-day access
• Purchase 4-6 months in advance on government website
• Tickets are for morning (6am-12pm) or afternoon (12pm-5:30pm) entry
• Show passport to enter and carry permit at all times

Inca Trail Permit

• $200 per person for 4-day hike
• Book 6+ months in advance through tour operators
• Only 500 hikers allowed per day
• Take passport to pick up permit before hike

High demand means permitting books up quickly. Reserve with plenty of lead time.

Huayna Picchu Permit

• $12 extra for access up iconic overlook
• Limited to 400 people across 2 time slots per day
• Books up months in advance like Machu Picchu entrance

Add Huayna Picchu when purchasing Machu Picchu ticket for permit.

Alternative Treks

Other trail options like Salkantay Trek or Lares Trek don’t limit permits, making them easier to book last minute. No permit needed, just pay entry at Machu Picchu.

Booking everything yourself through the government sites instead of tour operators can save money. The key is purchasing permits and tickets several months in advance online and being flexible on hiking trail options. With planning, permits and tickets to Machu Picchu can be affordable.

Here are some additional tips for saving money on Machu Picchu permits and tickets when booking a DIY trip:

• Purchase tickets directly through government sites instead of third-party resellers to avoid markups
• Book your permits and tickets 4-6 months in advance for the lowest prices – they tend to increase closer to travel dates
• Consider going in the low season between November and March when permit availability is higher
• Look into student discount tickets if eligible – these can save 50% off entrance fees
• Be flexible on booking alternative treks like Lares or Salkantay that don’t have permit limits
• Research trail options, travel times, permit rules etc. yourself instead of paying a tour operator
• Use free online resources like government tourism sites to plan logistics
• Connect with other independent travelers to share costs like guides and transport
• Consider camping instead of hotels to save on lodging expenses

With ample research and planning ahead, you can experience Machu Picchu affordably and on your own terms without having to pay premium prices for packaged group tours. Booking direct, traveling in shoulder/low season, and utilizing student discounts can unlock substantial savings. The key is putting in the time upfront to DIY.

Guided Tours vs Independent Travel to Machu Picchu

You can visit Machu Picchu either on an organized group tour or independently. Here is an overview of the pros and cons of each:

Guided Group Tours

Pros

• All-inclusive with transport, permits, hotels, some meals
• Expert guides provide history and context
• Efficient logistics handled for you
• Group sizes from 4-20+ travelers

Cons

• More expensive – average $1000-$5000 per person
• Less flexibility in daily itinerary
• Rushed pace with lots of early starts and moves

Popular tour companies like Intrepid Travel, G Adventures, and Peru For Less offer 1-10 day Machu Picchu group tour packages.

Independent Travel

Pros

• Total flexibility to create custom itinerary
• Travel at your own pace – no strict schedules
• Save money by booking transport and hotels separately
• Immerse more in local culture away from crowds

Cons

• Must book all permits, transport, lodging yourself
• Language barrier can be challenging
• No guides to provide context on sites
• Less structure – must be comfortable planning own trip

Doing Machu Picchu independently requires researching and booking permits, transportation like trains/buses, lodging, etc yourself. This takes more work but provides total freedom and often substantial cost savings over organized tours.

Saving Money Traveling Independently

Ways to reduce costs:

• DIY permit and ticket bookings instead of tour operator markups
• Use public transport instead of tours
• Stay outside main tourist areas like Cusco and Aguas Calientes
• Eat like a local at markets and budget restaurants
• Book affordable 1 month airbnb apartment in the surrounding towns for around $300 – $1000 per month and 2-3 star hotels instead of luxury
• Take alternative treks like Lares and Salkantay without permit limits

For DIY travelers comfortable planning their own custom trip, independent travel unlocks the flexibility to experience Machu Picchu affordably and authentically.

Housing and Accommodation Options Near Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu offers a range of accommodation options. Here are top locations and average costs:

Aguas Calientes

This town at the base of Machu Picchu is the most convenient lodging spot.

• Hostels – Dorm beds from $15 per night, private rooms $30-60
• Hotels – Affordable from $50 per night to luxury at $500+ per night
• Average Costs: Budget $30-$90 per night, Mid-range $100-$200, Luxury $300-$500+

Top picks are mid-range Taypikala Machupicchu and luxury Sumaq Machu Picchu.

Monthly Costs in Aguas Calientes

• Budget hotel/hostel – $400-$800 per month
• Mid-range hotel – $1200-$2000 per month
• Apartment rental – $800-$1500 per month

Ollantaytambo

This popular base town is 60 minutes from Machu Picchu by train and more affordable.

• Hostels – Dorms from $10 per night, private rooms $20-40
• Hotels – Comfortable stays from $40 per night
• Average Costs: Budget $25-$50 per night, Mid-range $60-$100

Top picks are budget El Albergue and mid-range Hotel Pakaritampu.

Monthly Costs Ollantaytambo

• Budget hotel/hostel – $300-$600 per month
• Mid-range hotel – $700-$1200 per month
• Apartment rental – $500-$1000 per month

Cusco

The historic capital is 1.5 hours away by train making it a cheaper base.

• Hostels – Dorms from $8 per night, private rooms $25-50
• Hotels – From $20 per night budget to $300+ luxury

Monthly Costs in Cusco

• Budget hotel/hostel – $350-$850 per month
• Mid-range hotel – $1000-$1500 per month
• Apartment rental – $500-$1200 per month

Saving on Lodging

Ways to reduce costs:

• Stay in less touristy towns like Ollantaytambo or Santa Teresa
• Book affordable Airbnb and 2-3 star hotels instead of luxury
• Get apartments or negotiate monthly discounts
• Travel in low season between November to March

With flexible dates and locations, you can find comfortable lodging at affordable monthly rates near Machu Picchu.

Food and Dining Near Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu’s limited restaurants and isolation from major towns means planning food in advance is key.

Dining in Aguas Calientes

This is the closest town with all dining options from cheap local joints to upscale restaurants.

• Local restaurants – Set menus for $5-10 per meal
• Tourist restaurants – Entrees average $15-25
• Fine dining – Meals average $50+

Bringing Your Own Food

Another strategy is to bring your own groceries and snacks.

• Shop in Cusco or Ollantaytambo beforehand
• Get bread, cheese, fruits, sandwiches, trail mix, snacks
• Makes picnics, hikes, long days more enjoyable

Cooking your own basic meals in a hostel or hotel kitchen also saves substantially.

Budget Dining Tips

Ways to save on food costs:

• Grocery shop in Cusco or Ollantaytambo before arriving
• Make sandwiches, snacks, and picnic meals
• Choose set menus at local restaurants
• Share dishes to taste a variety without big portions
• Limit pricey drinks like wine, cocktails
• Stay at lodgings with free breakfast

Average Food Costs

Backpacker Budget:

Daily: $40-100 per day

Weekly: $250-550 per week

Monthly: $1000-2000 per month

Mid-Range Budget:

Daily: $50-150 per day

Weekly: $300-1000 per week

Monthly: $1200-3000 per month

Luxury Experience:

Daily: $80+ per day

Weekly: $500+ per week

Monthly: $1500+ per month

Bringing some of your own provisions, choosing affordable local eateries, and avoiding premium dining can reduce food costs substantially in the Machu Picchu area.

Budgeting for a Machu Picchu Trip

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu is an exciting adventure, but it’s essential to budget wisely to ensure you get the most out of your experience. Whether you’re a budget traveler, a mid-range explorer, or a luxury seeker, this comprehensive guide will help you determine the costs of visiting Machu Picchu and surrounding areas, as well as provide money-saving tips to make the most of your journey.

Sample Budgets by Travel Style

1. Budget Travelers:
   • 1 Week: $400-560 USD (SOL 1600-2240)
   • 2 Weeks: $800-1120 USD (SOL 3200-4480)
   • 1 Month: $1600-2240 USD (SOL 6400-8960)
2. Mid-Range Travelers:
   • 1 Week: $800-1200 USD (SOL 3200-4800)
   • 2 Weeks: $1600-2400 USD (SOL 6400-9600)
   • 1 Month: $3200-4800 USD (SOL 12800-19200)
3. Luxury Travelers:
   • 1 Week: $2000-3200 USD (SOL 8000-12800)
   • 2 Weeks: $4000-6400 USD (SOL 16000-25600)
   • 1 Month: $8000-12800 USD (SOL 32000-51200)
4. Digital Nomad/Expat:
   • 1 Week: $291.20-476 USD (SOL 1164.80-1904)
   • 2 Weeks: $582.40-952 USD (SOL 2329.60-3808)
   • 1 Month: $1164.80-1904 USD (SOL 4659.20-7616)

Money-Saving Tips

1. Choose the Right Package: When booking your Machu Picchu tour, research different tour operators and compare prices and services. Look for package deals that include transportation, entry tickets, and guides to save money.
2. DIY Hiking: If you’re an experienced hiker, consider exploring some of the surrounding hiking trails without a guide. You’ll save on guide fees and enjoy a more adventurous experience.
3. Local Markets: Buy groceries at local markets in Cusco or Aguas Calientes and cook your meals if your accommodation allows. This can significantly reduce daily food expenses.
4. Local Transportation: Opt for local buses or shared taxis for transportation within towns. They are much cheaper than private taxis and provide an authentic experience.
5. Free and Cheap Activities: Explore free or low-cost attractions, such as the San Pedro Market in Cusco, which offers a taste of local culture without breaking the bank.
6. Off-Peak Travel: Visit Machu Picchu during the shoulder seasons to take advantage of lower prices for accommodations and tours.
7. Budget Accommodations: Stay in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or guesthouses, which offer cost-effective options without compromising comfort.
8. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle): Save money on beverages by carrying a reusable water bottle and filling it up at fountains to avoid buying bottled water.
9. Local Cuisine: Enjoy local Peruvian dishes at affordable local restaurants and street food stalls. These options are both delicious and budget-friendly.
10. Online Discounts: Look for discounts and coupons online for tours, accommodations, and transportation services. Websites like Viator and Booking.com often offer promotional deals.

Table of Total Budgets (Estimates):

When to Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu’s high elevation means weather varies by season, impacting your experience.

Dry Season (May-October)

• Sunny, dry days ideal for photography and views
• Chilly temperatures, especially at sunrise and sunset
• Peak crowds and prices for permits, trains, hotels
• High season for a reason – best hiking weather

Rainy Season (November-April)

• Increased rain, especially January-March
• Mild daytime temperatures around 65°F/18°C
• 30-40% fewer tourists than high season
• Lower prices and more permit availability

Shoulder Seasons

April/May and September/October provide a balance of decent weather with fewer crowds and lower prices than high season.

Key Festivals and Events

• June 21 – Inti Raymi winter solstice festival
• June 24 – Cusco Day celebrations
• July 7 – Qoyllur Riti pilgrimage and festival on Sinakara Glacier

When to Visit

• May-August – Best weather for hiking despite peak prices/crowds
• September-November – Decent weather and prices before high season
• December-April – Fewest crowds and best deals but rain likely
• June – For special events and festivals

Visiting during shoulder season provides lower costs and crowds with still decent weather. Avoid major holidays for availability.

Here’s a table summarizing the best times to visit Machu Picchu, including details about the dry season, rainy season, shoulder seasons, and key festivals:

Things to do and Tours In in Machu Picchu and Near Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu offers a wealth of history and activities beyond its iconic Inca ruins. Here are some top highlights:

In Machu Picchu

• Walk the Main Citadel – Allow 2-3 hours to see key areas like the Sacred Plaza, Intihuatana, temples, residences and terraces.
• Climb Huayna Picchu – This iconic jagged mountain looms over the ruins. A steep climb with epic views. Permits cost $12 extra.
• Temple of the Sun – Impressive stonework dedicated to the Incan sun god Inti. Features include carved steps and polished walls.
• Intihuatana Stone – This sacred carved granite rock was used as a celestial calendar by the Incas. Sitting at the highest point of the ruins.
• Guardhouse Ruins – Terraced barracks and towers for soldiers guarding the citadel. 130+ buildings in this sector to explore.
• Inca Bridge – Narrow ledge cut into cliffside with handholds carved into the granite. Impressive engineering.

Nearby Inca Sites

• Ollantaytambo – Impressive stone terraces and temples used for fortification. Cheaper entry than Machu Picchu.
• Moray – Fascinating concentric agricultural terraces sculpted into the hillside acting as an Inca experimental farm and lab.
• Pisac – Sprawling ruins with temples, residences and expansive agricultural terraces showcasing Inca engineering.
• Salinas de Maras – Vast salt pans with thousands of pools dating back to pre-Incan times. Still in use today.
• Tipon – showcase of Inca agricultural engineering with terraces, canals and fountains for irrigation. Striking stonework.

Adventure Activities

• Inca Trail Hike – Popular 4-day trek through mountains ending at Machu Picchu. Permits required.
• Lares Trek – Scenic 3-4 day moderate hike through remote Lares Valley villages and thermal pools.
• Choquequirao Trek – Challenging 4-5 day trek to remarkably well-preserved sister ruins of Machu Picchu.
• Mountain Biking – Ride downhill through the Sacred Valley’s rugged scenery and villages.
• Whitewater Rafting – Descend Class III-IV rapids on the Urubamba River near Cusco. Half to full day options.

Guided Tours

• Machu Picchu Day Trip – Escorted full day tour with roundtrip transport from Cusco.
• Permitted Treks – Guide services provide food, gear, porters, permits doing Inca Trail, Lares, etc.
• Sacred Valley Tour – Guided van exploration of key sites like Ollantaytambo, Maras and Pisac.
• Combo Adventure – Activities like rafting, ziplining, horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking combined.

Table of Activities, Sites and Tours in Machu Picchu

and for alot more things to do and tours in Machu Picchu and new Machu Picchu you can check out Get Your Guide:

Cost of Communication and International Sim Card Data Plans in Machu Picchu, Peru

To stay connected through your cell phone while in Machu Picchu and around Peru, you can purchase a local SIM card or use an international eSIM plan.

Getting an SIM Card

Popular providers offer prepaid SIM cards with unlimited data:

• Claro Peru Unlimited – 109 SOL ($30 USD) per month
• Movistar Peru Unlimited – 98 SOL ($28 USD) per month
• Entel Peru Unlimited – 109 SOL ($30 USD) per month
• Bitel Peru Unlimited – 87 SOL ($24 USD) per month

SIMs can be purchased in Peru at shops, kiosks, and airports in Peru. Bring an unlocked phone.

Using an International eSIM

eSIMs like Airalo eSIM and Holafly provide short-term data packages starting around $10 USD for 1GB up to unlimited high-speed data.

Getting a local Peruvian SIM card or using an international eSIM provides affordable smartphone connectivity when traveling in the region. Unlimited data SIMs start around $24-30 USD monthly.

Best Areas and Nearby Towns to visit From Machu Picchu

In addition to exploring the famous Inca citadel, visiting some nearby areas helps provide a fuller experience.

Key Neighborhoods of Machu Picchu

• Agricultural Sector – Impressive terraces used for farming.
• Sacred Plaza – Religious structures and Intihuatana sundial stone.
• Guardhouse Sector – Military barracks, towers and storage buildings.

Nearby Towns

Aguas Calientes – Closest town, good for souvenirs, lodging and restaurants.

Ollantaytambo – Charming Sacred Valley town with Inca ruins. Affordable base.

Cusco – Historic capital full of culture and colonial architecture.

Urubamba – Laidback Sacred Valley hub surrounded by sites.

Nearby Inca Sites

Pisac – Impressive terraces, temples and craft market.

Moray – Unusual circular agricultural terraces and laboratory.

Maras – Vast and ancient salt evaporation ponds still in use.

Sacsayhuaman – Hilltop fortress with huge stone walls and towers.

Qenqo – Sacred site with subterranean temple carved from stone.

Worthwhile Day Trips

Sacred Valley – Full day exploring key sites and towns.

Cusco – The historic capital makes a worthwhile overnight side trip.

Puno & Lake Titicaca – See floating islands and beautiful lake. 10+ hours from Cusco.

Arequipa & Colca Canyon – Hike one of the world’s deepest canyons. hour flight.

Nazca – Famous desert lines etched into the landscape. 10+ hour bus ride.

Staying 3 days to 2 weeks and 1 month before/after visiting Machu Picchu enables seeing the highlights of the surrounding region.

Useful Resources For Planning Your Budget in Machu Picchu

• Peru Tourism Information
  • Peru Official Tourism Board
  • Lonely Planet Peru – Reliable Peru travel guide overview.
  • My favorite Bradt Guides Peru
• Travel Advisories
  • US State Department Peru – Official US advisory for Peru travelers.
  • UK Foreign Travel Advice Peru – UK guidance for citizens traveling to Peru.
  • Australia Smartraveller Peru – Peru advisory for Australian travelers.
• Peru Government Resources
  • Peru Travel – Peru tourism ministry official site.
• Local Rental Websites Like Urbania

Conclusion on Trip Costs in Machu Picchu

Planning a trip to Iquitos involves budgeting for expenses like accommodations, food, transportation, and activities. With some expert planning, You can Have an amazing trip to Iquitos on any budget.

Final Key Costs in Machu Picchu Summary:

Visiting Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers, and while it can be perceived as expensive, careful planning can make it affordable for backpackers and budget-conscious individuals. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you might incur:

Transportation:

• Local bus from Cusco – $12-15 each way.
• Peru Rail Expedition train – $100 roundtrip.
• Inca Trail with a budget tour agency – $500-$800.

Consider taking the local bus for the cheapest option, while the Expedition train offers an affordable rail experience. Booking the Inca Trail through a budget tour company can significantly reduce costs.

Entry Tickets & Permits:

• Machu Picchu entrance – $65 (one day).
• Huayna Picchu – $12 additional for a permit (if desired).
• Student discounts available.

Purchase tickets in advance online to secure entry, and make use of student discounts to save money.

Lodging:

• Dorm bed in Aguas Calientes – $10-$15 per night.
• Budget hotel in Aguas Calientes – $30-$60 per night.
• Stay in Cusco or Ollantaytambo for more affordable accommodation – $15-$40 per night for dorms or budget hotels.

Consider staying outside of Machu Picchu in Cusco or Ollantaytambo for more cost-effective lodging options.

Food:

• Local restaurants and markets in Aguas Calientes – $3-$8 per meal.
• Grocery supplies from Cusco – $2-$5 per meal.

Opt for local dining options to enjoy affordable meals, and consider buying groceries to prepare your own food to save even more.

Tour vs Independent:

• Self-guided using public transportation – $100-$150 for permits, transport, and lodging per day.
• Budget group tour – $150-$300 per person per day.

Independent travel is cost-effective but requires more planning and effort. Group tours handle the logistics, but doing it yourself can be cheaper.

With budget options for backpackers, mid-range travelers, and luxury experiences, the total cost of a Machu Picchu trip can range from $500 to $3000+ per week or $1000 to $3000+ per month. Stretching your trip to 2-4 weeks and basing in Cusco or Ollantaytambo can significantly reduce costs across all budget ranges.

Inca Trail:

• Permit – $200 per person.
• Guide – $100-$150 for an independent guide (required).
• Food – $3-$5 per meal if bringing your own supplies.
• Camping gear – Bring your own or rent for $50.
• Porter (optional) – $80-$100 for the 4 days to carry gear.

Total for a 4-day Inca Trail hike: Approximately $500-$600 per person. Research ways to make it more cost-effective.

Alternative Trails: Consider alternative trails like the Salkantay Trek and Lares Trek, which require less advanced booking than the Inca Trail.

• Permit – $10-$30 per person.
• Guide – $100-$150 for an independent guide (recommended).
• Lodging & food – Staying in local guesthouses and preparing your own meals can substantially reduce costs compared to organized tours.

Total for a 5-day Salkantay Trek: Approximately $300-$400 per person.

To keep your trip costs low, be flexible with your lodging, use local transportation options, and opt for activities like hiking independently instead of with tour groups. Purchasing food in local markets and cooking your meals can also help keep costs down while providing a more authentic experience. Enjoy your affordable adventure to Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas!

30 Final Tips for Saving Money in Machu Picchu Peru and near Machu Pichu

Here are 30 specific tips for saving money when visiting Machu Picchu and the surrounding areas:

1. Plan in Advance: Book your Machu Picchu tickets, train tickets, and accommodations well in advance to secure lower prices.
2. Visit During Off-Peak Seasons: Travel during the shoulder seasons (avoiding June to August) to find better prices and fewer crowds.
3. Inca Trail Alternatives: Consider alternative treks like the Salkantay or Lares treks, which can be more budget-friendly than the classic Inca Trail.
4. Use Local Transportation: Opt for local buses and colectivos instead of expensive private transfers to get around the Sacred Valley.
5. Stay in Aguas Calientes: Accommodations in Aguas Calientes are generally more budget-friendly than staying in the entrance area of Machu Picchu.
6. Book Hostels and Budget Hotels: Choose dormitory-style hostels or budget hotels for more affordable lodging options.
7. Student Discounts: If you’re a student, make sure to bring your student ID to get discounts on entry tickets.
8. Bring Snacks: Stock up on snacks in Cusco or Aguas Calientes to save money while exploring Machu Picchu.
9. Pack Light: Travel with only the essentials to avoid extra baggage fees on the train to Machu Picchu.
10. Purchase Tickets Online: Buy your entry tickets to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu online in advance to secure your visit and potentially save money.
11. Local Dining: Eat at local restaurants and markets in Aguas Calientes for affordable meals.
12. Cook Your Meals: If your accommodation allows, prepare your meals to cut down on food costs.
13. Use Local Guides: Consider hiring local guides instead of more expensive tour agencies for a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
14. Avoid Expensive Tour Packages: Research and plan your activities independently to save on the cost of guided tours.
15. Discount Cards: Look for discounts with various cards such as the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which covers multiple attractions.
16. Negotiate Prices: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices when shopping at local markets.
17. Hike Independently: Explore the surroundings of Machu Picchu on your own, saving money on guided tours.
18. Budget Accommodation in Cusco: Consider staying in more budget-friendly accommodations in Cusco and taking day trips to Machu Picchu.
19. Pack a Reusable Water Bottle: Refill your water bottle at water stations to save on the cost of bottled water.
20. Bring Comfortable Walking Shoes: Prevent the need for expensive footwear by bringing comfortable and durable walking shoes.
21. Inca Trail Permits: If you plan to hike the Inca Trail, secure your permit in advance and choose budget tour operators.
22. Inca Trail Supplies: Bring your camping gear if you have it or rent it for a fraction of the cost.
23. Local Transport to Machu Picchu: Take the local bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu to save time and money compared to walking.
24. Book Directly with Locals: If possible, book accommodations and tours directly with local providers to avoid additional fees.
25. Rent Bicycles: Consider renting a bicycle to explore the surrounding areas of Machu Picchu, saving on transportation costs.
26. Avoid Overpriced Souvenirs: Shop for souvenirs in local markets instead of overpriced shops near Machu Picchu.
27. Use ATMs Wisely: Withdraw larger amounts of cash at once to minimize ATM fees.
28. Learn Basic Spanish: Familiarize yourself with basic Spanish to communicate effectively and potentially negotiate better deals.
29. Avoid Luxury Experiences: Skip luxury accommodations and tours if you’re on a tight budget.
30. Budget Your Trip: Set a daily spending limit and stick to your budget to ensure you don’t overspend during your visit to Machu Picchu.

Thanks so much for reading we hope this helps you with your trip to Peru!

Related Articles about Peru:

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• COST OF A TRIP To Peru 2024 [The Ultimate Guide]
• COST OF LIVING In PERU 2024 [PERU Budget Guide]
• COST OF LIVING In Trujillo Peru 2024 [Trujillo Budget Guide]
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• COST OF LIVING In Cusco Peru 2024 [Cusco Budget Guide]
• COST OF A TRIP To Iquitos Peru 2024 [Amazon Budget Guide]
• COST OF LIVING In Iquitos Peru 2024 [Iquitos Budget Guide]
• COST OF LIVING In LIMA Peru 2024 [Lima Budget Guide]

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Austin Pierce

Co Owner of One Life Passport, Subject Matter Expert about Travel and Digital Nomadism, Travel Expert for 7 Years and Travel Youtuber with my Girlfriend Salina at One Life Passport on YouTube. About the Author: I Became A Digital Nomad in 2018 after working soul-crushing jobs in Tennessee, United States. I figured out how to make money online, and I bought a one-way ticket to Thailand in 2018, and we never looked back; I have been traveling the world with my girlfriend, Salina. We Run a YouTube Channel and this Blog; We write about the Digital Nomad Lifestyle, Travel, The Places we live, and How to Make Money Online. I am also an MMA and Muay Thai Fighter, and I am really into Fitness!

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