Cusco on a Budget: Hotels, Free Activities, and Money-Saving Tips

Looking for tips and tricks to travel to Cusco on a budget? You’ve come to the right place!

The entire Cusco region, which also includes the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu, is stunning, but it’s also easy to blow your budget there.

The good news is that it’s possible to plan a budget-friendly trip to Cuscoif you know the right tips.

So here’s my guide to all the free activities in Cusco and places to visit without spending a dime!

You’ll also find my suggestions for visiting the Sacred Valley for free, a special section on visiting Machu Picchu on a budget, and finally my tips and insider secrets for saving on hotels, transportation, and restaurants.

So, how can you travel to Cusco on a budget?

Get the Tourist Ticket

Before you start exploring Cusco and its surroundings, you first need to decide whether you’re going to buy the Tourist Ticket.

Yes, it’s an investment, but if this is your first trip to Cusco, I highly recommend getting it because it gives you access to the main must-see attractions in Cusco and the Sacred Valley: museums, churches, and archaeological sites.

It’s important to understand that all included sites are only accessible with this ticket and that it’s impossible to buy individual admissions.

There are several types of tickets: the full Tourist Ticket, valid for 10 days, or the partial ticket with 3 different circuits, valid for 1 or 2 days depending on the circuit chosen.

You can easily buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket here:

The 22 free activities in Cusco

Of course, it’s also possible to visit Cusco without the tourist ticket!

Personally, I once spent a month in Cusco without the pass because I really didn’t want to spend any money.

Cusco is rich in history, culture, and architecture, and you quickly realize there are plenty of alternative options—and very often without any tourists!

Here’s what you can do for free in Cusco:

1. Explore the markets

Throughout Latin America, markets are the go-to place to observe local life, discover a wide variety of products, and eat on a budget.

Here are the markets to visit in Cusco:

• San Pedro Market: this is main market in Cusco. Among other things, you’ll find a wide variety of potatoes and quinoa. I really like it, even though it has become more touristy in recent years. Plus, it was designed by Gustave Eiffel!
• San Blas Market: smaller, but much quieter than the San Pedro Market, with a nice “neighborhood vibe.” Among other things, you’ll find plenty of stalls serving good, affordable food (including several vegan options!). 
• Wanchaq Market: since it’s hardly ever mentioned, it’s really not touristy! If you want to experience the atmosphere of a typical Cusco market atmosphere, this is the place to go.

2. Strolling through San Blas

The San Blas neighborhood is Cusco ’s bohemian district.

With its white houses, blue doors, and balconies, it has a unique character, and many consider it the most beautiful part of the city.

Here you’ll find charming café-boutiques like L’Atelier and art galleries that are free to visit.

Hilario Mendivil Velasco, now deceased, is considered one of the most important Peruvian artisans of the^20th century.

In fact, the workshop-museum is located on the pretty Plazoleta San Blas, which is a must-see in the neighborhood.

3. Admire the architecture

Cusco features a surprising blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Here are a few places to see in Cusco:

• Casa del Almirante: Plateresque-style decoration on the façade with a small Mudéjar-style window. It houses the Inka Museum, but you can go inside to see the inner courtyard and its fountain.
• Casa del Inca Garcilaso de la Vega: It is located on the corner of Plaza Regocijo. It was built on Inca walls and features colonial arches with balconies.
• Casa de los Cuatro Bustos: there used to be an Inca palace here that served as the antechamber to the Coricancha. A large two-story house was built on the site, featuring stone arches, columns, rosettes, and four busts. Today, it is the magnificent Palacio del Inka Hotel.
• Inca Palace of Qollqanpata: Today, its Inca wall remains and can be seen on Plazoleta San Cristóbal next to the church.
• Casa Cabrera on Plazoleta Nazarenas, which houses the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
• Casa de los Marqueses de San Lorenzo de Valle Umbroso which is the School of Fine Arts 
• Casa Marqués de Picoaga which is the Costa del Sol Hotel on Santa Teresa Street.
• Archbishop’s Palace located on the corner of Hatun Rumiyoc, the base of which is built with Inca stones and features a Baroque façade.

4. Xapiri Ground, the home of Amazonian art

Located across from Plazoleta San Blas, Xapiri Ground is a free cultural space showcasing contemporary Amazonian art and the living cultures of the Peruvian Amazon.

This non-profit art center features several spaces: rotating exhibitions, participatory workshops that transport you to the heart of the jungle, and even a charming café where I enjoyed an excellent hot chocolate!

What makes it unique is the authenticity of its approach: the organization works in close collaboration with indigenous communities, resulting in representations that are truly faithful to these cultures.

• Open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Plazoleta de San Blas 630

5. Visit the churches

There are several churches in the historic center, and some are true gems of colonial architecture.

However, you usually have to either pay an entrance fee (e.g., Convento de la Merced) or purchase a tourist pass (e.g., the cathedral, La Compañía de Jesús, La iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo).

The trick to visit Cusco’s churches for free is to go during Mass.

It’s not necessarily the best way to see all the details (paintings, sculptures, etc.), but if you want to save money in Cusco , you have to make some compromises!

Be discreet and respectful, and remember that taking photos is prohibited.[/su_box]

The “Piedra de los 12 Angulos” is one of Cusco’s main attractions.

In fact, it is the finest example of Inca masonry: the stones are so precisely cut that they fit together so tightly that not even a needle can slip between them.

Moreover, no mortar was used, and yet they still stand firmly after several centuries!

You can see it for free because it is located on the outer wall of the ancient Inca palace of Sinchi Roca, currently the Archbishop’s Palace, on the long, narrow street Hatun Rumiyoc.

[su_box title="My advice" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]You can take as many photos of the stone as you like, but touching it is prohibited.[/su_box] [caption id="attachment_9405" align="aligncenter" width="840"] The 12-sided stone on Hatun Rumiyoc Street. Photo by Unu Korno[/caption]

7. Watch traditional dances

What’s fantastic about Cusco is that there’s always an event where you can admire colorful traditional costumes and discover regional dances. 

And you don’t have to be there on a special occasion (e.g., Inti Raymi, carnivals, Corpus Christi, Easter, Independence Day, etc.): every Sundays in the Plaza de Armas there are dances!

It’s a free show that’s truly magnificent! Plus, you can just hang out around the square without buying anything.

8. The 7 Culebras Street

There are seven streets in Cusco that start with the number 7: Siete Mascarones, Siete Ventanas, Siete Cuartones, Siete Diablitos, Siete Angelitos, Siete Culebras, Siete Borreguitos.

Among them, Siete Culebras (Seven Snakes) is one of the most beautiful streets in Cusco!

It is a narrow passageway between Plazoleta Nazarenas and Calle Choquechaka.

The "Street of the Seven Snakes" owes its name to 14 snakes carved into the stone walls: 7 on the walls of the Palacio Nazarenas and 7 in the passageway.

Of course, over time, several have become somewhat worn, but they are still visible. Try to spot them!

Inside the passageway, there is also a colonial arch that once marked the boundary between the colonial and indigenous zones.

[caption id="attachment_26966" align="aligncenter" width="900"] 7 Culebras Street in Cusco[/caption]

9. The Cusco Traditional Textiles Center

If you’re interested in local crafts, the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco (CTTC) is definitely worth a visit! This NGO, founded in 1996, works with ten local weaving communities to preserve ancestral techniques that were on the verge of disappearing.

It features a shop selling authentic textiles, but more importantly, a free museum that tells the story and showcases the craftsmanship of the region’s Quechua communities.

A great way to learn more about local crafts without spending a single sol!

• Address: Avenida El Sol 603-A, Cusco

[caption id="attachment_27502" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Photo from the center’s Facebook page[/caption]

10. The Museum of Sacred Plants

A really cool and completely free stop in Cusco!

This small, intimate museum showcases the sacred, magical, and medicinal plants used for centuries by Andean and Amazonian cultures.

Here you’ll discover iconic plants like the coca leaf, ayahuasca, and the San Pedro cactus, along with their ritual, spiritual, and therapeutic uses.

What’s nice is that you can not only see them but also touch and smell them. The outdoor garden is charming and worth a visit.

The owners are very welcoming and let you explore at your own pace without any pressure to buy. Allow about 15–20 minutes for the visit.

[su_box title="My Tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]While there, you can request a tarot reading using coca leaves—a quintessentially Andean experience! [/su_box]

• Address: Calle Pumacurco 519, Cusco

[caption id="attachment_41078" align="aligncenter" width="840"] The Museum of Sacred Plants, Cusco[/caption]

11. The Hilario Mendivil Studio-Museum

On the charming Plazoleta San Blas lies the Mendivil family’s studio-museum, a free activity in Cusco and a must-see in the neighborhood.

Hilario Mendivil, who died in 1977, is considered one of the greatest Peruvian artisans of the 20th century.

His style is instantly recognizable: religious figures with disproportionately elongated necks, inspired by the llamas and alpacas he saw wandering through the neighborhood.

Virgins, saints, the Three Wise Men, arquebusiers... all his works bear this same distinctive mark and a face of remarkable serenity.

Today, his daughter Juana carries on the family tradition, adding her own touch: a Byzantine influence with gilding and intense colors.

[su_box title="My Tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]Admission is free, but a tip is welcome if you enjoyed the visit! [/su_box]

• Address: Plazoleta San Blas, Cusco

[caption id="attachment_41077" align="aligncenter" width="782"] Hilario Mendivil Museum and Workshop, Cusco[/caption]

12. Take a salsa class

Yes, there are free salsa and bachataclasses in Cusco! You can easily find them at popular clubs around the plaza,such as Inka Team. And don’t be shy—these are beginner classes, and a great way to meet other travelers!

[su_box title="My tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]Classes are held every day starting at 9 p.m., but if you go around 10 p.m., the promoters hand out coupons: if you buy a cocktail, you get one free! You can get several by walking around the square, but of course I recommend moderation 😉[/su_box] [caption id="attachment_26973" align="aligncenter" width="840"] The salsa class at Inka Team[/caption]

13. Cusicancha Palace

The Palace of Cusicancha was the birthplace of Pachacutec, one of the most important Inca rulers, and the residence of his family. 

It is believed that it also hosted activities complementary to those of the Coricancha located across the way, which was the holiest site in the Inca Empire.

Not only is it free to visit, but it’s truly a hidden gem with no tourists, which is surprising given that it’s the heart of Cusco!

Here you’ll discover a mix of pre-Inca, Inca, colonial, and republican styles, as well as a few artifacts and an Inca irrigation system, for example.

[su_box title="My tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]To get there from the Plaza de Armas, take Calle Loreto to Calle Maruri and head to the building of the Regional Directorate of Culture of Cusco (Calle Maruri 324). [ /su_box] [caption id="attachment_40744" align="aligncenter" width="900"] kusicancha palace cusco[/caption] My favorite view of Cusco is the one from the Sacsayhuaman fortress, but you need to have the tourist ticket in hand to access it.

Fortunately, there is a free alternative: the Cristo Blanco, perched on the hill of Pukamuqu.

Standing 8 meters tall, the statue of the White Christ with its arms outstretched bears a slight resemblance to the Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro and seems to watch over the city of Cusco.

Once at the top, you get a magnificent view of the city!

If you look to the right, you can also see Sacsayhuaman.

[su_box title="My tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2" You can walk there from the Plaza de Armas in 30–40 minutes. Be careful, though, because it’s a steady climb, and at this altitude, you’ll really feel it! You can also take a bus for 1 sol to go up to Cristo Blanco from Calle Puente Rosario, near the Coricancha [/su_box][caption id="attachment_41079" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Cristo Blanco, the best viewpoint in Cusco[/caption]

Not far from Cristo Blanco lies the Templo de los Monos, or Kusilluchayoc in Quechua.

Its name comes from the Quechua words “Cusillu” (monkey) and “Chayoc” (possessor), literally meaning “the one who possesses monkeys.”

It takes its name from a monkey carved into the stone. This ceremonial temple is actually carved directly into large blocks of raw rock, and it also features depictions of felines, associated with strength and protection in the Andean worldview.

It is believed to have served as both an astronomical observatory and a ceremonial site, built in the 15th century under the spiritual guidance of the Amautas, the Inca sages.

It features a network of galleries and corridors, and one can also see a sculpture resembling a puma. There is also said to be a main altar carved into the rock, which was likely used for ritual offerings.

With the arrival of the Spanish, the site was gradually abandoned and almost forgotten until recently.

It’s an unusual spot off the beaten path in Cusco!

[caption id="attachment_41080" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Temple of the Monkeys or Cusilluchayoc, Cusco. It features engravings of monkeys carved into the stone, symbols of agility, cunning, and spiritual connection.[/caption]

Not far from the Temple of the Monkeys lies another well-kept secret of the Inca capital and another 100% free attraction to visit in Cusco.

From a distance, it looks like just a big rock, but as you get closer, you discover an Inca temple (15th-16th centuries) carved directly into the stone, featuring details such as snakes, condors, pumas, and chacanas (the Andean cross).

Rituals were held here in honor of the Moon (Killa) and other deities.

[caption id="attachment_26956" align="aligncenter" width="900"] The Temple of the Moon in Cusco[/caption]

If you’re still up for a walk, I highly recommend continuing from the Temple of the Moon to Inkilltambo, another free site in Cusco.

And not just any site! I was really surprised when I visited it because it’s quite large, with agricultural terraces, corridors, canals, and fountains.

It’s an Inca ceremonial site built during the time of Viracocha (15th century) and likely dedicated to the Mallkis, the mummies of the royal families.

[su_box title="My tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]To get there directly, you can either walk via Qenqo or, for a quicker option, take the "El Huerto" bus from the Rosaspata stop (1 sol) to Qenqo, then walk 1 km to the site.

For the return trip, if you’re tired and don’t want to take the same route back, simply take the Inkas Express (a small green and white bus) from here.[/su_box] [caption id="attachment_26958" align="aligncenter" width="840"] View of Inkilltambo from the path leading there[/caption]

The “Balcon del Diablo” is a massive rock at the foot of Apu Senqa that served as the entrance to the city of Cusco during the Inca era.

In the center, there is a sort of balcony (hence its name) that offers a magnificent view of the surroundings and the small river flowing below.

By the way, I highly recommend taking the narrow tunnel that goes through the rock down to the river—it’s really fun!

Honestly, no photo does justice to these truly magnificent sites, which are free to visit.

[su_box title="My Tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]From the Plaza de Armas, head toward Sacsayhuaman, then walk for about an hour toward the community of Chakan.[/su_box] [caption id="attachment_26968" align="aligncenter" width="900"] The Devil’s Balcony in Cusco[/caption]

Since the city is surrounded by hills, it’s fairly easy to find several beautiful, free viewpoints in Cusco withouthaving to buy anything at a bar or restaurant.

In addition to the Cristo Blanco, you can visit the San Cristobal Viewpoint, considered the best viewpoint in Cusco, with its sweeping panoramic view, small plaza, and church.

There’s also the San Blas Viewpoint, just a 5-minute walk from the main square, the Plaza Santa Ana Viewpoint, and the Huaca Sapantiana.

[caption id="attachment_26961" align="aligncenter" width="840"] San Cristobal Viewpoint[/caption]

I enjoy visiting cemeteries while traveling because they offer a chance to learn more about the local culture.

The Almudena Cemetery is Cusco’s main cemetery and was designated a National Cultural Heritage Site in 2011!

It isopen to the public and is the final resting place of several prominent figures from Cusco and Peru in general.

In fact, it is home to presidents, mayors, writers, scientists, lawyers, artists, and union leaders from across the political spectrum.

Among them are, for example, the archaeologist Manuel Chavez Ballon (the Machu Picchu museum is named after him!), the great photographer Martin Chambi, and María Trinidad Enríquez, the 1st female lawyer (19th century).

The cemetery features beautiful examples of religious art (angels, gargoyles, crosses, domes), but what I particularly love is seeing beer glasses, Inca Kola bottles, toys, photos—in short, all sorts of objects placed on the graves to celebrate their lives.

Because in Latin America, we mourn our deceased, but we also celebrate with them! It’s a beautiful way to pay tribute to them.

[caption id="attachment_41073" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Almudena Cemetery, Cusco[/caption]

Just a few minutes from Plaza de Armas is this free museum showcasing the colorful works of Peruvian artist Maximo Laura,who specializes in tapestry.

Among other things, it features 200 tapestries, 1,800 drawings, 10,000 photos, and 850 paintings!

• Address: Santa Catalina Ancha 304, Cusco
• Open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Maximo Laura Museum website

[caption id="attachment_26932" align="aligncenter" width="840"] The Maximo Laura Museum in Cusco[/caption]

As is the case in many cities around the world, there are free guided tours of Cusco, commonly known as Free Walking Tours.

These are walking tours (1.5–2 hours) that offer a first glimpse of the city: Plaza de Armas, the San Blas district, the 12-Angled Stone, San Pedro Market, etc.

It’s also a chance to spot the attractions and get your bearings, which is very handy!

There are two companies that organize the tours:

• Inkan Milky Way (yellow vest): departures at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. on Sundays in front of the Chicha restaurant on Regocijo Square
• Free Walking Tour Cusco (red T-shirt): departures daily at 7:15 AM, 9:45 AM, 12:30 PM, and 3:30 PM in front of the KFC on the main square

[su_box title="My Tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]Don’t forget that these free guided tours rely on tips. It’s important to tip at the end of the tour to support the guides! [/su_box]

Machu Picchu on a budget: tips for saving money

• Choose the single-entry ticket (Machu Picchu only, without the mountain), the cheapest of the three available options
• Stay in a budget hotel in Aguas Calientes such as  Supertramp (~€16) or Nativus (~€19) in a dorm, breakfast included
• Avoid the train: take a colectivo to Hidroeléctrica and then walk 3 hours to Aguas Calientes
• Hike up to the entrance of Machu Picchu (allow 1.5–2 hours) instead of taking the bus; or take the bus up and walk down as an interesting compromise
• Eat at the Mercado de Abastos in Aguas Calientes for daily specials and juices at low prices

[su_box title="My tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]Don’t miss My complete guide to Machu Picchu! [/su_box] [caption id="attachment_26701" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Supertramp Hostel Machu Picchu[/caption]

Free Activities in the Sacred Valley

If you don’t plan on buying the Cusco Tourist Ticket, there are still plenty of free activities to enjoy in the Sacred Valley! In Pisac Stroll through the Inca village, visit the Andean market and the community museum (the ruins require the Cusco Tourist Ticket). If you’re there on a Sunday, don’t miss the Quechua mass around 11 a.m.—it’s impressive! In Chinchero Discover the process of making traditional textiles in one of the workshops, take a stroll through the market, and simply enjoy the village’s charm. In Ollantaytambo Visit the Catcco Museum for free, climb up to Pinkuylluna for a magnificent view of the ruins and the village, or hike to the Ñaupa Iglesia, an ancient Inca temple rarely visited by tourists. The Sacred Valley is vast—you can also simply take a stroll in Urubamba, Yucay, or Calca. [su_box title="My Tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]To discover all the must-sees, here is My complete guide to the Sacred Valley of the Incas! [/su_box] [caption id="attachment_6299" align="aligncenter" width="835"] Wool weaving in Chinchero[/caption]

How to choose a good, affordable hotel in Cusco

Cusco is the tourist hub of Peru, as in addition to its own attractions, it serves as the starting point for tours to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Due to the high number of visitors, finding an affordable hotel in Cusco that offers decent comfort isn’t always easy: unreliable hot water, cold rooms at high altitudes, a gloomy atmosphere… Unpleasant surprises are common when you book without doing your research. However, there are budget accommodations in Cusco that offer excellent value for money. Since these are rare gems, it’s best to book them in advance because they fill up quickly, especially during high season. Here are my suggestions:

• Munay Tika: family-run accommodation with a prime location in downtown Cusco, ideal for easy access to the city’s attractions. Friendly staff who speak English and Spanish, American breakfast included daily. Starting at €5 for a dorm or €12 for a private room!
• Gringo's Wasi: a bed and breakfast just a few steps from downtown, run by the friendly owners Carlos and Graciela. Hot water and rustic rooms in the true tradition of Peruvian architecture. Starting at €5 per night!
• The Sleepy Mouse: located in Cusco’s historic center, near the Coricancha and the main museums. Shared kitchen, beautiful views of the courtyard or the city, and à la carte breakfast served every morning. Starting at €7!
• Blacky Hostel: just a few minutes’ walk from the Plaza de Armas, this is the best option for budget dorms in Cusco. Terrace, cozy lounge, staff available 24/7, and very clean facilities. The hostel even partners with a local animal shelter! Starting at €8 for a dorm bed!

[su_box title="My Tip" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]Don’t miss my complete guide Cusco: The 21 Best Hotels for Every Budget! [/su_box] [caption id="attachment_25307" align="aligncenter" width="840"] The Blacky Hostel[/caption]

How to get around Cusco on a budget

The cheapest way to travel between Cusco and the Sacred Valley is to take the colectivo: shared taxis that go to several destinations. Departures are from Calle Puputi for Pisac and Calca, or Calle Pavitos for Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, Chinchero, and Maras. Buses are even cheaper (2–3 soles less), but the wait is much longer, they make several stops, and they aren’t well-maintained—not the best option in my opinion. [su_box title="My advice" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]In taxis, always agree on the price before getting in —this applies to everyone in Peru. You can haggle, but rarely for more than 1–2 soles. [/su_box] [caption id="attachment_26963" align="aligncenter" width="560"] A taxi in Cusco’s main square[/caption]

Inexpensive tours in Cusco: how to save money

If you want to see as much as possible in a short time, the best option is to take a day trip. But there are so many to choose from that it’s easy to get overwhelmed!

I recommend starting with the comprehensive and affordable Cusco tour, which includes the four Inca sites (Qenko, Sacsayhuaman, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay):

[su_button url=" https://www.getyourguide.com/fr-fr/cuzco-l359/cusco-visite-d-une-demi-journee-avec-sacsayhuaman-et-q-enco-t658839/?partner_id=BO84AWZ&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=other&cmp=vperou" target="blank" rel="nofollow" style="flat" background="#5eca0c" size="10" center="yes" desc="I want to explore Cusco easily"]Book my spot for the Cusco tour now![/su_button] I also recommend this affordable tour of the Sacred Valley, which includes visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo,Chinchero, Maras, and Moray:

[su_button url=" https://www.getyourguide.fr/ollantaytambo-l93095/depuis-cusco-vallee-sacree-et-mines-de-sel-de-moray-t317787/?partner_id=BO84AWZ&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=other&cmp=vperou" target="blank" rel="nofollow" style="flat" background="#5eca0c" size="10" center="yes" desc="I want to explore the Sacred Valley with ease"]Book my Sacred Valley tour now![/su_button]

Where to eat on a budget in Cusco

Eating

on

a

budget

in Cusco is very easy—expect to pay less than 10 soles for a full meal. Street food is everywhere: on street corners and in squares, you’ll find tamales, grilled corn with cheese, quinoa chicha, or rice pudding. The markets are the ideal option: San Pedro, San Blas, and the cheapest of all, the Wanchaq market, all offer lunch specials (appetizer + main course + drink) at the best value. These specials are also available at many small restaurants—you won’t have to look far! In the evening, head to Calle Plateros for sandwich stands (chicken, egg, beef), or look foranticuchos skewers (grilled beef heart with potatoes)—a must-try Peruvian classic. [su_box title="My advice" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]Only eat street food or at the market if your stomach is used to this type of cuisine. At high altitudes, digestion is harder than usual—it’s best to ease into it gradually! [/su_box] [caption id="attachment_26960" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Vendors are everywhere on the streets of Cusco[/caption]

Where to buy inexpensive souvenirs in Cusco

The Mercado de San Pedro is a great option for finding souvenirs at good prices. You’ll find exactly the same items as elsewhere in Peru, but about 15–20% cheaper —personally, I kicked myself when I saw the prices, but it was too late; I’d already bought everything elsewhere! For the best deals, head to the Baratillo: a huge market held every Saturday morning near Calle Ejercito. You can find everything there: textiles, rugs, scarves, cushion covers… at unbeatable prices. Very few tourists know about this place, which is why the prices are so good!

[su_box title="My advice" box_color="#5eca0c" radius="2"]As always in crowded places, keep a close eye on your pockets because the pickpockets are skilled. [/su_box] [caption id="attachment_41088" align="aligncenter" width="900"] El Baratillo (Saturdays only), the best place to buy inexpensive souvenirs in Cusco[/caption]

Rent a Car at the Best Price

More and more travelers are choosing to visit Peru by rental car. And indeed, the advantages are numerous: freedom, speed, flexibility in itineraries and schedules…

That said, as with any budget consideration, it’s essential tocarefully comparethe different optionsto find the best car at the lowest price.

That’s why I recommend using Booking.com Cars:

• The site offers a clear comparison of the different prices from different agencies: a quick and easy way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free: very convenient if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers comprehensive insurance at a lower price than rental companies: so it’s an instant, effortless savings.

Click the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

[su_button url="https://www.booking.com/cars/index.html?aid=950543" target="blank" rel="nofollow" style="flat" background="#5eca0c" size="10" center="yes" desc="Best rate + Free cancellation!"]Car rental in Peru - Click here![/su_button]

Find a cheap flight to Cusco

If you’re short on time (or just don’t feel like taking a long bus ride!), you can fly to Cusco: 1 hour and 15 minutes from Lima, 1 hour from Arequipa, or 45 minutes from Puno.

But of course, airfare accounts for a large portion of the budget for a trip to Cusco. So it’s very important to compare flightscarefully if you want to save money!

To find a cheap flight to Cusco or book yourinternational flight to Peru, I recommend using our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner:it guarantees you’ll pay the best price!

Insurance Comparison for Peru

[su_box title="Are you

traveling

to Peru?" box_color="#5eca0c" title_color="#ffffff" radius="1"]

As you know, it’s extremely important to get insurance before traveling. Abroad, a minor issue can quickly turn into a major headache, with irreversible consequences for your health and/or finances!

It is therefore very important to choose travel insurance that responds quickly, is available 24/7, offers good coverage, and is affordable.

I therefore recommend reading our travel insurance comparison for Peru to find the best coverage. You’ll also find promo codes to get the best rates!

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Peru Travel Guides

• Buy the Le Routard Peru guide on Amazon.fr
• Buy the Lonely Planet Peru guide on Amazon.fr

Heading to Cusco? See also

The best tours in Peru – Our selection of the best tours for a dream trip without breaking the bank!

• All our articles on Peru are here: Find all the guides we’ve written here!
• What’s the best travel insurance for a trip to Peru: our handy comparison of travel insurance policies

• Peru: the top 30 things to do and see!

• Cusco: The Top 30 Best Things to Do!
• Cusco: What to do in 2 or 3 days?
• Cusco: What to do and see in 1 day
• Cusco: The 17 Best Hotels for Every Budget
• Cusco: How to get there by bus and plane?
• Responsible tourism in Cusco

• Humantay: The Complete Guide to Visiting the Most Beautiful Lake Near Cusco
• Rainbow Mountain: How to Visit It?
• Palcoyo: the tourist-free alternative to Rainbow Mountain
• Sacred Valley: the complete guide to things to see and do!

• Machu Picchu: The Ultimate Guide with All the Practical Info
• Machu Picchu: The 17 Best Hotels in Aguas Calientes

• Itinerary: 10 Days in Peru – To easily plan your trip
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Peru - A tour featuring Peru’s must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 15 days in Peru – A variation on the 2-week itinerary
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru - To see all the main attractions
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru and Bolivia
• Road Trip in Peru: The 5 Best Driving Itineraries!

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Traveling to Peru? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Peru: All my tips and itineraries to plan your trip in one place! 40 EPIC Things to Do in Peru (+ My Best Tips)

• 30 Epic things to do in Cusco (+Tips)
• One day in Cusco: The Perfect Itinerary (1st time visit)
• 2 or 3 Days in Cusco: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• How to Get to Cusco: Best Transport Options Compared
• Cusco Tourist Ticket Guide: Prices, Sites, and How It Works
• How to Visit the Inca Ruins of Cusco: Sacsayhuamán, Tambomachay, and More

• Sacred Valley: 23 Best Places to Visit (+Where to Stay)
• Ollantaytambo: 15 Epic Things to Do in the Heart of the Sacred Valley
• Pisac: The 12 Best Places to Visit (+ Tips)
• Maras and Moray: How to Get There, Entrance Fees, and Tips
• Urubamba: The Best 10 Places to Visit
• Laguna Humantay (Cusco): How to Get There, What to Expect, and Tips
• How to Visit Rainbow Mountain from Cusco: Hike, Tours & Tips

• Machu Picchu: Tickets, Circuits, and Top Tips to Plan Your Visit
• Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo): Tips, Hotels, and What to Do
• Huayna Picchu vs. Machu Picchu Mountain: Which Hike is Best?
• Inca Trail: The Definitive Guide to the Classic Trek to Machu Picchu
• Salkantay Trek: A Complete Guide to the Best Inca Trail Alternative
• Inca Jungle Trail (Machu Picchu): What to Expect + My Experience

• Itinerary: 5-6 days in Peru – Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
• Itinerary: 7-8 days in Peru – See the maximum in one week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Peru – The ideal itinerary for a short stay in Peru
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Peru – The classic route
• Itinerary: 15 days in Peru – An itinerary that includes northern Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru + Bolivia – The best itinerary for visiting both countries
• Itinerary: 1 month in Peru – What to see and do in 30-31 days

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[caption id="attachment_39320" align="aligncenter" width="736"] cusco on a budget[/caption]

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