How to Experience the Best of Peru on a Budget: Top Tips for Budget Travelers
Peru is a mesmerizing South American country that offers a diverse range of experiences, from picturesque landscapes to ancient ruins and delicious cuisine. Traveling to Peru can be costly, but don’t worry, enjoying Peru on a budget is entirely possible with a little bit of planning and resourcefulness. In this article, we will share some tips on how to experience the best of Peru while on a budget.
Plan Your Trip Around the Low Season
One of the first steps that you can take to save money while traveling to Peru is to plan your trip during the low season. Peru’s low season usually runs from May to October and January to March. Traveling during these months will not only save you money but also give you an opportunity to avoid crowded tourist destinations. Flights, accommodations, and tours are more affordable during this time, and you can save up to 30% on your travel expenses.
Explore Peru’s Free Attractions
Peru has many free attractions that you can explore without paying any entrance fees. Lima, the capital city, offers several free walking tours that will allow you to explore the city’s beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. The Miraflores Boardwalk and the Parque del Amor are also popular tourist attractions that are free to visit.
Machu Picchu, Peru’s most famous tourist attraction, has two free entry days per year, on the winter and summer solstice. If you are on a tight budget, plan your visit accordingly to take advantage of this.
Eat Like a Local
Eating out at restaurants can be one of the most significant expenses while traveling. In Peru, you can save money on food by eating like a local. Street food is very popular in Peru and can be found almost everywhere. You can enjoy delicious and filling meals like ceviche, anticuchos, and empanadas for a fraction of the cost of eating at a restaurant. Be sure to try Peru’s national dish, lomo saltado, a stir-fry dish made with beef, onions, and french fries.
Consider Staying in Hostels
Hostels are a fantastic option for budget travelers in Peru. Hostels are budget-friendly, and you can even find some that offer private rooms for couples or families. Peru has plenty of hostels, and they are located in almost every major city or tourist destination. Staying in hostels will give you a chance to meet other travelers, swap tips, and maybe even find someone to explore with.
Take Local Transportation
Taking local transportation, such as buses or shared taxis, is an excellent way to save money while exploring Peru. You can also take overnight buses to save on accommodation costs. Just be sure to research the options available to you before booking, as some may not be safe or comfortable.
Conclusion
Traveling to Peru on a budget is entirely possible with a bit of planning and resourcefulness. Plan your trip around the low season, explore Peru’s free attractions, eat like a local, stay in hostels, and take local transportation. By following these tips, you can experience the best of Peru without breaking the bank. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your budget-friendly trip to Peru today!
