Cusco was included in the list of the most affordable destinations around the world compiled by Forbes magazine. Among the most budget-friendly destinations are places such as Mexico, South Africa, and Morocco. The list also highlights the rich history of the capital of the Inca Empire, as well as the diversity of cultural and natural attractions safeguarded within this territory.

• Want to travel to Cusco?
• How much does lunch cost in Cusco?
• How much does accommodation cost in Cusco?
• How much does a taxi ride cost in Cusco?
• How much does admission to Cusco’s tourist attractions cost?
• How much does admission to Machu Picchu cost?
• Travel recommendations for Cusco
• Frequently Asked Questions

Cusco is a budget-friendly destination

Currency of Peru
The official currency of Peru is the Sol, which is one of the most stable in South America. Its exchange rate against the U.S. dollar is around 3.40 soles. Thanks to this exchange rate stability, risks for visitors are reduced, and the favorable exchange rate provides greater purchasing power.

Want to travel to Cusco?

• You won’t need a fortune to enjoy Cusco and its incredible tourist attractions. This city offers some of the best experiences in the world—at affordable prices.
• In Cusco, you can explore many historic Inca sites such as: the Sacsayhuaman fortress, the Coricancha temple, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, or the Inca City of Machu Picchu.
• You can also enjoy natural destinations, often combined with outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, ATV tours, and much more.
• Cusco holds a mysterious atmosphere that captivates all its visitors. Its Inca heritage, colonial architecture, and Andean landscapes come together in a city that never ceases to amaze.
• The top tourist attractions in Cusco are: Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, the Inca Trail, and Humantay Lake.

How much does lunch cost in Cusco?

• One of the advantages of choosing Cusco as your destination is that you can find delicious and inexpensive food in many places. Lunch, for example, can cost as little as 7 Peruvian soles (around 2 U.S. dollars) at local markets.
• In addition, since Peru is one of the world’s leading gastronomic destinations, Cusco offers an excellent and highly varied culinary experience.
• The most famous dishes include: ceviche, lomo saltado, causa rellena, papa a la huancaína, ají de gallina, and more.
• As soon as you arrive in Cusco, you can choose from hundreds of restaurants in the city’s historic center. There, you can enjoy delicious Peruvian cuisine at very reasonable prices.
• Affordable dining options are available throughout the day, allowing you to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and in some cases even dinner.

Here are some of the most affordable and diverse places you can visit to eat in Cusco:

• San Pedro Market.
• San Blas Market.
• Ttio Market.
• Wanchaq Market.

How much does accommodation cost in Cusco?

• Finding accommodation in Cusco won’t be a problem or significantly impact your budget. The wide range of tourism services is one of the region’s most outstanding features—you can find everything from Airbnb rentals and hostels to 5-star hotels.
• You can find lodging starting at 20 U.S. dollars per night, or even less. However, there are also luxury hotels that cost more than 500 dollars per night.
• The price will depend on the services you wish to include during your stay: internet, breakfast, room service, etc.
• In Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), you will also find options for every budget. There is even a hotel located next to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu (Belmond Sanctuary Lodge).

Here are some hotels or places where you can stay affordably in Cusco:

• Ecopackers Hostel Cusco.
• Loki Hostel Cusco.
• Pariwana Hostel Cusco.
• Milhouse Hostel Cusco.
• Hostel Kokopelli Cusco.

How much does a taxi ride cost in Cusco?

• Cusco is a small city where attractions are located close to one another, making it very easy to get around.
• Taxi services cost an average of 5 to 15 Peruvian soles (approximately 2 to 5 U.S. dollars). Keep in mind that fares are negotiated directly with the driver (there are no meters or fixed rates).
• The best way to get around the city is by public transportation. Since it is small, it is very easy to move around. The cost is 1 Peruvian sol per ride (approximately 0.30 U.S. dollars).
• Tourists wishing to travel to the Sacred Valley of the Incas can take public minivans located on Pavitos Street (a short distance from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas). The cost of a trip to the Sacred Valley is approximately 10 soles (about 3 U.S. dollars).

How much does admission to Cusco’s tourist attractions cost?

• Besides Machu Picchu, Cusco offers impressive attractions you shouldn’t miss, such as: Sacsayhuaman, Coricancha, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, and many more.
• To visit most archaeological sites in Cusco, you will need to purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket. It is divided into three circuits: circuit 1 (Cusco city), circuit 2 (South Valley and museums), circuit 3 (Sacred Valley), and the comprehensive ticket includes them all.
• Other attractions such as Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake, Huayna Picchu Mountain, or unique experiences like the Inca Trail require a separate ticket.

How much does admission to Machu Picchu cost?

• There are ten types of tickets to enter Machu Picchu, each with a different entrance fee.
• Additionally, there are discounts available for minors, university students, and citizens of the Andean Community of Nations: Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia.

*The prices are in Peruvian soles (S/.)

Travel Recommendations for Cusco

• We recommend booking your Machu Picchu tickets in advance (at least 1 to 2 months ahead). Once you know your travel dates, book your train tickets, accommodation, transportation, and additional tours, etc.
• Book your international flights to Peru in advance, as you’ll need to travel to Peru to visit Machu Picchu. Remember that there are direct flights to Peru from: Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, Amsterdam, London, New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Mexico City, Montreal, San José, Havana, and all South American capital cities.
• At the San Pedro market, you can taste Peruvian and local food at affordable prices. Look for the food section and try the best of the local cuisine: tamales, roast pork, chicharrón, roast guinea pig, ají de gallina, chairo soup, lamb stew, and many other typical Peruvian dishes for less than 10 U.S. dollars.
• Although admission to the most important historical sites in Cusco requires a ticket, there are many places you can access for free, such as: Mirador de Cristo Blanco, the Stone of the 12 Angles, Inkilltambo, Ñaupa Church, Pinkuylluna, Kisicancha, and many more destinations.
• You will also be able to enjoy frequent cultural events, traditional dances, parades, theater performances, and many other distinctive expressions.
• If you wish to explore Cusco without a tour, the best option is to purchase the comprehensive tourist ticket, which includes all three touring circuits, and it is valid for ten days.
• With Ticketmachupicchu, you can book your ideal experience in the city of Cusco. Consult with our advisors for all available options to plan your perfect trip.

The Sacsayhuaman fortress is one of the most incredible attractions in Cusco

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) Is Cusco an affordable destination to travel to?

  Yes, Cusco is considered one of the most affordable destinations in the world. This destination combines history, culture, and nature at very accessible prices compared to other major international tourist attractions.

• 2) Do I need a large budget to enjoy Cusco’s attractions?

  No, in Cusco, you will find services ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury ones, allowing you to organize a complete experience without overspending.

• 3) How much can I spend on food during my trip?

  If you’re looking for affordable options, a meal at local markets can cost as little as 7 soles. There are also tourist restaurants with varied prices. We recommend traditional places like the San Pedro Market, where you can enjoy local cuisine at reasonable prices.

• 4) How much does accommodation in Cusco cost?

  Accommodation can range from 20 U.S. dollars per night at hostels and basic accommodations to over 500 U.S. dollars at luxury hotels. It all depends on the level of comfort you desire.

• 5) How much does it cost to travel by taxi within the city?

  A taxi in Cusco typically costs between 5 and 15 soles per trip within the city. We recommend agreeing on the fare before starting the ride, as there are no taximeters and no fixed rates.

• 6) What ticket do I need to visit the main archaeological sites in Cusco?

  Most attractions like Sacsayhuamán, Pisac, or Ollantaytambo require the Cusco Tourist Ticket. It’s ideal to purchase the comprehensive ticket if you plan to visit multiple tourist destinations on different days.

• 7) How much does admission to Machu Picchu cost?

  Admission to Machu Picchu varies depending on the route chosen. Standard tickets for foreigners start at 152 soles, while routes that include mountains like Huayna Picchu can cost 200 soles. There are also discounts for minors, students, and citizens of the Andean Community of Nations.

• 8) How far in advance should I book my Machu Picchu ticket?

  Machu Picchu tickets should be booked at least one month in advance, although for highly sought-after tickets, you should book up to three months ahead. Especially if you plan to visit during peak season (April to August), you will need to book further in advance.

• 9) Can I visit Cusco without booking organized tours?

  Yes, it’s possible. If you prefer to explore on your own, we recommend purchasing the comprehensive tourist ticket, which gives you the flexibility to organize your itinerary freely for ten days.

• 10) Are there free attractions in Cusco?

  Yes, you can visit places like the Mirador de Cristo Blanco or the Stone of the 12 Angles for free. Cusco also offers cultural events and artistic expressions open to the public year-round.

Advice from people who have been there

Cusco

By: Jean C

“¡Cusco es hermosa!“

“Cusco es una de las ciudades más hermosas que he visitado, conoces a personas de todo el mundo mientras recorres lugares increíbles, y no tienes que gastar demasiado para verlos. Además, tiene una magia que se puede sentir en el aire. Una vez allí entendí porque le dicen el ombligo del mundo.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 27, 2026