Peru on a budget

Cheapest months to go

Peak is May, June, July, August, September. The weeks either side of that window usually carry most of the weather with much less of the price.

Getting around for less

Realistic options in Peru:

• Domestic flights link Lima with Cusco, Arequipa, Iquitos and the north quickly
• Long-distance buses are extensive and much cheaper, but Andean routes are slow
• Trains serve the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes for Machu Picchu, and a scenic route to Puno
• Iquitos has no road connection — access is by air or river only
• Colectivos and taxis handle short highland hops; agree fares in advance

Where to base yourself

Fewer bases means fewer paid transfers. Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley cover a lot between them.