Is $30 enough to see Machu Picchu?

Yes, but you have to budget carefully. Factor the entrance fee ($45) and train/bus costs into your overall trip total rather than your daily $30 limit. If you save $5 a day on food, you can cover these one-off expenses.

How do I move money around?

Use a card with no foreign transaction fees (like Charles Schwab or Wise). ATMs in Bolivia are less reliable than in Peru, so always carry $100 USD in crisp, clean bills as a backup.

How to Backpack Peru and Bolivia on $30 a Day

To stick to $30 a day, prioritize local 'menu del día' lunches, take overnight buses to save on accommodation, and book your excursions directly at local tour offices rather than online. Focus your spending on shared dorms and public transit to ensure your budget covers your experiences, not just logistics.

Master the 'Menu del Día'. Eat your main meal of the day between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Look for restaurants advertising a 'menu del día' on a chalkboard outside. For $2.50 to $4.00, you will get a starter, a main, and a drink.
Use Overnight Buses. Book 'cama' or 'semi-cama' buses for long hauls (like Cusco to Lima or La Paz to Uyuni). A 12-hour ride costs about $15–$20, covering your transport and saving you the cost of one night in a hostel.
Book Tours on the Ground. Never book treks or tours (like the Inca Trail or Salar de Uyuni) online in advance. Walk into three or four agencies in the destination town to compare prices; you will save 30% to 50% by booking 24–48 hours before departure.
Stick to Shared Dorms. Hostel dorm beds in Peru and Bolivia consistently cost between $7 and $11. Use Hostelworld to check ratings, but book directly through the hostel's WhatsApp or website to avoid commission fees.

Is $30 enough to see Machu Picchu?: Yes, but you have to budget carefully. Factor the entrance fee ($45) and train/bus costs into your overall trip total rather than your daily $30 limit. If you save $5 a day on food, you can cover these one-off expenses.
How do I move money around?: Use a card with no foreign transaction fees (like Charles Schwab or Wise). ATMs in Bolivia are less reliable than in Peru, so always carry $100 USD in crisp, clean bills as a backup.