Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Always use a filtered water bottle (like a LifeStraw) or buy large jugs of water at local tiendas to refill your own bottle.

Should I bring cash or cards?

Bring a debit card that refunds ATM fees. Most small shops and markets only accept cash (soles), so carry small denominations at all times.

How to travel Peru on a tight budget

Travel through Peru on a shoestring by relying on overnight luxury buses for transit, sticking to local 'menú' lunches, and booking your treks directly with operators in Cusco rather than through international agencies. You can comfortably manage on $35 a day if you prioritize hostels and street food over sit-down restaurants.

Use overnight buses for long distances. Instead of flying, take overnight 'cama' (full-recline) buses. You save on a night of accommodation and gain time. Companies like Cruz del Sur or Oltursa are reliable. Always book at the station 24 hours in advance to get the lowest price.
Eat the 'Menú del Día'. Look for handwritten signs saying 'Menú'. These are set lunches offered between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM. You get a soup, a main course, and a drink for 10–15 soles ($3–$4). Avoid tourist-facing restaurants near main plazas.
Book treks on the ground. Never pre-book your Inca Trail or Salkantay trek from home. Walk into multiple agencies in Cusco two days before you want to leave. You can negotiate prices down by 20-30% if they have empty spots to fill.
Use local 'Colectivos'. For short distances between towns, use shared vans called 'colectivos'. They are a fraction of the price of private taxis. Ask locals at the main bus terminal where the colectivo pickup point is.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?: No. Always use a filtered water bottle (like a LifeStraw) or buy large jugs of water at local tiendas to refill your own bottle.
Should I bring cash or cards?: Bring a debit card that refunds ATM fees. Most small shops and markets only accept cash (soles), so carry small denominations at all times.