5 extra costs in Cusco and Machu Picchu to add to your budget

Your package covers the main items (tours, trains, lodging), but Cusco has plenty of small, unavoidable expenses that eat through your cash (soles) fast.

To avoid surprises in your budget, Tari Tours has put together the costs that are not included in most tours and how much cash to bring.

1. The Machu Picchu bus and entry fees left out

This is the expense that confuses people who buy very cheap tours the most.

• The bus up to Machu Picchu. Even when the agency covers your ticket to the citadel, the bus up and down between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu entrance is a separate cost (about US$ 24 round trip).
• Entry fees not included. Some famous sites, such as the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and Cusco Cathedral, are not part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico General, BTG). You pay at the door (around S/ 40 to S/ 50 each).

2. Small costs that add up: restrooms and tips

Two small expenses that, added together, weigh on your budget over a week of travel.

• Public restrooms. Inside and outside archaeological sites (and especially at markets and bus stations), a public restroom costs S/ 1 or S/ 2. Always carry coins and small bills for this.
• Tips (guides and porters). Tips for guides and, above all, for porters on long treks (Salkantay, Inca Trail) are not included in the tour price. If the service is excellent, a tip is expected and very much appreciated.

3. Staying hydrated: drinking water

Drinking plenty of water is key against altitude sickness, but the cost of bottled water adds up.

• Risk. Drinking unsafe water can ruin your trip.
• The budget-friendly fix. Instead of buying 1-liter bottles every day, invest in a portable filter or a reusable bottle. Many hotels and hostels let you refill your bottle with boiled or purified water for free or for a small fee.

4. Hidden fees: cards and ATM withdrawals

Paying by card is convenient, but the fees can get expensive.

• ATMs. Most charge a withdrawal fee that can be high, especially with a foreign card.
• The fix. Withdraw larger amounts in soles (S/) at once to pay fewer fees. For bigger tours, many agencies accept payment in US dollars, and the exchange rate may work out better than your bank’s.

5. Getting around: private transport and taxis

Comfort and safety usually come at an extra cost.

• Taxis at night. To get around Cusco at night, always use an official radio taxi or a ride-hailing app. They cost more than street taxis, but they’re the safest option.
• Airport transfer. If it isn’t included in your package, a taxi to the airport costs S/ 15 to S/ 25 (about US$ 4 to US$ 7), depending on where you are and on agreeing on the fare before you get in.

Travel with your budget under control

The secret to enjoying Cusco is planning for these small costs before you arrive.