Peru
What Peru really costs
Peru is a country full of history, from the narrow streets of Cusco to the ruins of Machu Picchu high in the mountains. September is a lovely month to visit: dry, cool at night, and not yet overcrowded. With a bit of planning, you can easily adjust your trip to suit your own budget.
21 September 2026 · Wayloha editorial · 3 sources
Eating and drinking
Eating in Peru does not have to be expensive, even in September when the cities get busier with visitors. In restaurants, opt for the menu of the day. This is a set meal at a friendly price and much more affordable than ordering individual dishes.
You can also find happy hours in large cities like Cusco and Lima. During these times you get two drinks for the price of one, or a discount on a snack to go with them. This way you can eat and drink well without the costs adding up.
- Choose the menu of the day instead of individual dishes.
- Go out to eat or drink during the early evening happy hour.
Located at an altitude of over 3,400 metres, Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire.Peru
Transport across the country
For short trips between towns that take less than two hours, take a colectivo. This is a shared minibus and costs about 10 Peruvian soles per trip, around two euros. Expect a journey through the mountains to take longer than the map suggests.
In the large cities, you can use Uber for a few euros per trip, often cheaper than a regular taxi. For longer distances across the country, there are also special buses for travellers, with wifi on board and a fixed route along the most famous spots.
- Book bus tickets for long distances in advance, as this saves on the price.
- Use Uber in the city instead of a taxi from the street.
- Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter, as you cannot drink tap water.
Sleeping and accommodation
Most travellers coming to Peru in September travel on a limited budget and choose simple, cosy places to sleep. Cusco is the best base for this.
From Cusco, you can easily arrange day trips to the Sacred Valley and the surrounding area. Because September is dry, it is also a good month to sleep just outside the centre and still travel around easily.
- Book in Cusco, as it is your base for the whole surrounding area.
- Ask at your accommodation for tips on day trips in September.
Sights and activities
Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are the great highlights of a trip through Peru. September is one of the better months to walk the trail, as it rains less than in the wet months. You can also take the train if you would rather not walk.
Besides Machu Picchu, there are more special places: the Colca Canyon with its deep gorge, and Paracas National Park on the coast with a very different, dry landscape. Entrance prices vary by location, so check this in advance.
- Book the Inca Trail well in advance, as spots for September fill up quickly.
- Combine Machu Picchu with a day trip to the Colca Canyon or Paracas for more variety.
