Cusco for Backpackers: An Adventure and Budget Guide

Cusco for Backpackers: An Adventure and Budget Guide

Cusco is undeniably the backpacker capital of South America. Its vibrant atmosphere, ancient Inca history, stunning Andean landscapes, and proximity to Machu Picchu make it a magnet for budget travelers and adventure seekers from across the globe. The city is exceptionally well-equipped for backpackers, offering a wealth of affordable accommodation, delicious cheap eats, and countless tour operators catering to every budget.

If you’re planning to explore Cusco on a shoestring, this guide is for you, providing essential tips to make your adventure both epic and affordable.

Where to Stay: Hostels are Your Hub (S/ 25 – S/ 60 per night)

Cusco has an incredible array of hostels, from lively party hostels to quieter, more traditional options. Most are concentrated around the historic center, making it easy to walk to major attractions.

• Popular & Recommended Hostels:

  • Pariwana Hostel Cusco: Consistently highly rated, known for its social atmosphere, clean facilities, and central location.
  • Wild Rover Cusco: Famous (or infamous!) for its lively Irish bar and party scene. Great for meeting people if you’re looking for that kind of vibe.
  • Selina Cusco (various locations): A well-known chain offering comfortable dorms, private rooms, coworking spaces, and social events.
  • Viajero Cusco Hostel: A 200-year-old house near the main plaza, passionate about hospitality.
  • Black Llama Hostel: Highly rated for its modern design, good amenities, and friendly atmosphere.
  • Intro Hostels Cusco: A renovated colonial mansion with an eco-friendly focus.
  • The Supertramp Hostel: Known for comfy beds, hot showers, and a helpful staff.

• Tips for Hostels:

  • Book in advance: Especially during peak season (May-September) and for popular hostels.
  • Read reviews: Check Hostelworld or Booking.com for recent reviews on cleanliness, atmosphere, hot water, and security.
  • Look for free breakfast: Many hostels include a basic breakfast, which is a great money-saver.
  • Locker access: Ensure there are lockers for your valuables. Bring your own lock.

Eating Cheap: Savoring Local Flavors (S/ 8 – S/ 25 per meal)

Eating out in Cusco doesn’t have to break the bank. Skip the tourist traps around Plaza de Armas and seek out local spots.

• “Menú del Día” / “Almuerzo”: This is your best friend for budget eating. Many local restaurants (known as restaurantes or comedores) offer a set lunch menu for S/ 8 – S/ 15 (around $2-$4 USD). It typically includes a soup, a main course (often chicken, meat, or a vegetarian option with rice and potatoes), and a drink. Look for chalkboards outside.
  • Where to find them: Wander a few blocks off the main plazas, particularly into the San Blas neighborhood or toward San Pedro Market.
• Local Markets:
  • Mercado Central de San Pedro: A vibrant, bustling market where you can find cheap and delicious food. Head to the food stalls for huge portions of local dishes (like chifa – Peruvian-Chinese fusion) for S/ 10-15. Also great for fresh juices, fruits, and snacks.
  • Mercado San Blas: A smaller, calmer market in the San Blas neighborhood, also offering affordable almuerzos (set lunches) and healthy options, including vegetarian.
  • Wanchaq Market: Less touristy, offers a more authentic local experience for food and produce.
• Street Food: Be cautious but open-minded. Try salchipapas (fries with sliced hot dogs), anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers), or empanadas from reputable vendors.
• Cook Your Own: Many hostels have communal kitchens. Buying ingredients from the markets and cooking your meals is the cheapest option.
• Café Ayllu: A local institution known for its traditional breakfasts and sandwiches at very affordable prices.

Getting Around: Budget Transportation

Cusco’s historic center is very walkable, but for longer distances or reaching trailheads, these are your best bets:

• Walking: The best way to explore the historic center, San Blas, and surrounding areas. Be prepared for hills and the altitude!
• Local Buses (Combis/Colectivos): The cheapest way to get around the city (around S/ 1 per ride). They can be crowded and confusing for first-timers, as routes are indicated by signs in the window and the driver or a conductor shouts destinations. Ask your hostel staff for directions.
• Taxis: Readily available and affordable for short distances within the city (S/ 5 – S/ 15, depending on distance). Always agree on the price before getting in, as meters are rare. Taxis are generally a good option for getting to/from the airport (S/ 10-20) or specific tour pickup points.
• Uber/Beat: Ride-hailing apps are available and can offer more transparency on pricing and safety, as payments can be done online. However, cash is still widely used by traditional taxis.
• Colectivos for Sacred Valley: For visiting towns in the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo), colectivos (shared minivans) are the budget traveler’s choice (S/ 5-10 per person to most towns). They depart from specific points in Cusco (e.g., Calle Pavitos for Ollantaytambo/Urubamba, Puputi Street for Pisac).

Free & Cheap Things to Do in Cusco

You don’t need to spend a fortune to experience Cusco’s magic.

• Wander the Historic Center: Explore Plaza de Armas, Plaza Regocijo, and the charming, narrow streets of San Blas. Admire the colonial architecture and Inca stone walls (like the famous 12-Angled Stone on Hatunrumiyoc Street).
• Visit Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of San Pedro Market and San Blas Market. Great for people-watching and photography.
• Free Walking Tours: Many companies offer “free” walking tours (guides work for tips, so tip them well if you enjoyed it!). These are a great way to get an overview of the city and its history.
• Hike to Cristo Blanco & Sacsayhuaman (Exterior): Walk uphill from San Blas to the Cristo Blanco statue for panoramic views of Cusco. From there, you can explore the exterior of the Sacsayhuaman ruins without paying the Boleto Turístico entrance fee (though access to the interior is restricted).
• Explore San Blas Neighborhood: Known as the “artisans’ neighborhood,” it’s perfect for strolling, discovering unique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss the small Saturday artisan market in Plaza San Blas.
• People-Watch in Plazas: Grab a bench in Plaza de Armas, Plaza San Francisco, or any of the smaller plazas and observe local life.
• Attend a Free Dance Show: Often, there are free traditional dance performances in Plaza de Armas, especially on Sundays.
• ChocoMuseo: Learn about chocolate making (and enjoy free samples!) at the ChocoMuseo. They also offer workshops for a fee.
• Window Shop for Alpaca Gear: Admire the colorful textiles and alpaca products in the many shops. Remember to haggle respectfully if you decide to buy!

Budgeting for Machu Picchu: The Backpackers’ Route

Machu Picchu is the biggest expense, but there are ways to do it on a budget.

• The Hydroelectric Route (Aguas Calientes by foot): This is the ultimate backpacker option. Instead of an expensive train, you take a collectivo from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica (via Santa Teresa), then walk for about 2-3 hours along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). This cuts train costs significantly.
  • Cost Breakdown (approximate):
    • Collectivo Cusco to Hidroeléctrica: S/ 50-70 ($15-20 USD) round trip.
    • Machu Picchu entrance ticket: S/ 152 ($40 USD approx.) for foreign tourists (book well in advance!).
    • Hostel in Aguas Calientes: S/ 30-60 ($8-15 USD) per night.
    • Food in Aguas Calientes: Can be pricier, so consider packing some snacks from Cusco.
• Booking Tours: For Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, etc., it’s usually cheapest to book group tours from agencies in Cusco. Prices for full-day tours typically range from S/ 80-150 ($20-40 USD), often including transportation and a basic lunch. Bargain politely at agencies for the best price.

General Budget Saving Tips

• Travel in Shoulder/Low Season: Prices for flights, accommodation, and tours are generally lower during the rainy season (November-March), though you’ll contend with more rain.
• Carry Small Bills: For taxis, local buses, and market purchases.
• Hydrate Smart: Carry a reusable water bottle and fill up where possible, or buy large bottles to refill.
• Minimize Alcohol: Drinking can quickly add up, especially in tourist bars.
• Consider a Work Exchange: Some hostels offer free accommodation in exchange for a few hours of work per day.

Cusco truly embraces the backpacker spirit, offering an incredible blend of adventure, culture, and affordability. With careful planning and a willingness to embrace local ways, your Peruvian adventure can be the journey of a lifetime without breaking the bank.

Ausangate Trail understands the backpacker’s spirit! While we specialize in guided treks, we can offer advice on budgeting and responsible travel for your entire trip.

Contact Ausangate Trail today to integrate thrilling treks with your budget-friendly exploration of Cusco and beyond!