How To Stretch Travel Budget

With daily travel costs averaging as low as $30 for a backpacker, South America offers a budget-friendly playground for the frugal explorer.

Getting There and Around

Flying into Lima, Peru, is often the most economical choice, with round-trip flights from the U.S. as low as $300 if booked in advance. Once you arrive, get around using the Metropolitano bus system, which connects you from the Jorge Chávez International Airport to the city center for only 5.00 PEN ($1.35). The buses run frequently and provide an affordable way to navigate through Lima’s neighborhoods.

Consider buying a rechargeable card at Metropolitano stations to pay for your bus rides seamlessly. To explore the Miraflores district, known for its coastal views and vibrant atmosphere, hop on a local bus (costing around 1.50 PEN or $0.40) from the main terminal at the Plaza Mayor. For longer distances, shared taxis called “colectivos” can be found throughout the city, costing around 6-10 PEN ($1.60-$2.70) depending on your destination.

Where to Stay

Budget accommodation in Lima is abundant, especially in the Miraflores and Barranco districts. Hostal El Patio, located at Av. José Larco 812, offers dormitory beds for approximately 40 PEN ($11) a night, boasting a communal kitchen and a friendly atmosphere. For a more unique experience, check out the hostel Casa de la Cultura, which has dorms starting at 60 PEN ($16) and features an on-site bar and art events.

In the heart of the historical district, consider the Gran Hotel Cuzco for private rooms starting around 80 PEN ($22), providing easy access to major attractions like Plaza Mayor and the Government Palace, while still keeping you within budget. Always book your accommodation in advance through platforms like Hostelworld or Booking.com to snag the best deals and read reviews from fellow backpackers.

What to Eat

Lima is a culinary haven, and you can feast like a king without breaking the bank. Head to the Mercado de Surquillo for fresh ingredients or grab a meal at the food stalls offering delicious local dishes for as low as 15 PEN ($4). A must-try is the ceviche from Canta Rana in Barranco, where you can relish fresh fish marinated in lime, served for around 25 PEN ($6.75).

For street food lovers, visit the La Victoria neighborhood and try the anticuchos (grilled beef heart) from local vendors, priced at about 10 PEN ($2.70) each. Another staple is the Pollo a la Brasa (rotisserie chicken), which you can find at establishments like Pardo's Chicken, with a quarter chicken meal costing around 25 PEN ($6.75). Don't forget to wash it down with a refreshing Inca Kola, available in most supermarkets for about 2 PEN ($0.50).

Practical Tips

Mastering a budget travel strategy in Lima can help you stretch your funds even further.

• Use the app “Bim” to recharge your Metropolitano card easily and monitor your bus expenses.
• Carry small bills (1 and 5 PEN) for easier transactions at local markets and street vendors.
• Join free walking tours offered by companies like Free Walking Tour Lima, leaving from Plaza Mayor at 10 AM daily.
• Explore the scenic Costa Verde bike path, where you can rent a bike for about 15 PEN ($4) for two hours.