MANILA TO PERU: Itinerary, Expenses + Travel Tips

I flew Turkish Airlines to Bogota, Colombia, with a layover in Istanbul. From Bogota, my journey continued through Cuba, Mexico, and Bolivia before reaching Peru.

Leaving Copacabana, Bolivia around 5 pm, I crossed the border at the town of Puno within 30 minutes. The bus ride continued to Puno proper, where I arrived at 8 pm feeling the effects of a long travel day. Thankfully, Bolivia Hop whisked me straight to my hostel in under 10 minutes. After checking in and freshening up, I ventured out to find a delicious local restaurant for dinner. [Read: 24 Days in Latin America: Full Itinerary and Expenses]

An early wake-up call got me ready for my exciting Lake Titicaca tour the next day! The tour began promptly, and we set off for the docking port. Our first stop was the intriguing Uros floating islands. Since I hadn’t researched them beforehand, I went in with an open mind. While they weren’t what I expected, they offered a unique glimpse into a traditional way of life on the lake. Lake Titicaca Full-Day Tour

Returning to Puno in the late afternoon, I had a few hours to explore the town before my 10 pm bus to Cusco. I headed straight for the main plaza, admiring the grandeur of the cathedral. Wandering the streets of downtown Puno, I soaked in the local atmosphere. With a better sense of the town, I returned to my hostel to relax and await the convenient Bolivia Hop pick-up for my onward journey. [Read: Lake Titicaca Full Day Itinerary]

The 8-hour overnight bus ride from Puno to Cusco arrived at the crack of dawn around 5 am. Despite the early hour, the Bolivia Hop drop-off at my hotel ensured a smooth arrival. However, a slight hiccup awaited – the hotel my friend booked seemed to be missing in action! Luckily, my two friends, who had arrived in Cusco a day earlier, were comfortably settled at the Marriott Cusco. With a quick call, they welcomed me to join them for the rest of the morning.

Gallivanting Around Cusco

With our two friends due to arrive later for the Peru leg of our trip, we wasted no time in exploring Cusco’s historic center. Originally, we planned to visit just Saqsayhuaman, a renowned Inca site. However, our taxi driver presented us with an enticing offer: a tour of all four major ruins in the area, including Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara. Seizing this adventurous opportunity, we readily agreed! [Read: Cusco: A UNESCO World Heritage Site]

A Tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas

On our second day in Cusco, we delved into the heart of the Sacred Valley with a convenient group tour. This hassle-free option took care of our transportation and itinerary, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the history and beauty of the region. The tour included visits to several remarkable sites: Chinchero, with its impressive colonial church and traditional weaving demonstrations; Ollantaytambo, the Inca fortress town; Pisac, known for its vibrant market and agricultural terraces; Moray, the intriguing circular terraces used for agricultural experimentation; and the Salineras de Maras, the ancient salt mines with breathtaking views. Each stop offered something unique, making the entire experience truly worthwhile. You can book your tour here. [Read: A Visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas]

A Hike to the Humantay Lake

Day three brought the challenge of hiking to Lake Humantay. While I wouldn’t call myself a seasoned hiker, the initial view of the trail had me optimistic. However, after a brisk 30 minutes, the incline kicked in, testing my endurance. Determined to reach the lake, I started out setting my own pace. Unfortunately, my energy levels dipped significantly. Thankfully, halfway through, the option of a horseback ride presented itself. Knowing I wouldn’t make it without some assistance, I embraced the opportunity. The decision paid off in spades! Finally reaching the viewpoint, Lake Humantay unfolded before me – a vision of turquoise serenity nestled amidst majestic mountains. It was truly magical, exceeding all my expectations.

Exploring Machu Picchu

Our fourth day in Peru delivered the absolute highlight: a visit to Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring Inca citadel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Standing before it, words fail to capture the feeling of wonder that washed over me. We had originally planned to take a train from Poroy after booking a tour from Cusco. However, a hitch with our agency’s train tickets meant a change of plans. Instead, we found ourselves whisked away in a private car to Ollantaytambo, where we boarded a luxurious first-class train to Aguas Calientes. While a group tour was on the agenda, another unexpected twist arose – thanks to the agency’s mishap, we received a private tour upgrade! What initially seemed like a potential travel snafu ultimately became one of the most incredible experiences of our entire Peruvian adventure. [Read: A Journey to the Incan Elite City of Machu Picchu]

A Visit to the Rainbow Mountain

Exhaustion lingered from our previous adventures, making the 3:30 am wake-up call for the Rainbow Mountain tour a struggle. We even contemplated canceling at first. “We’re already here, this might be our only shot,” a friend wisely pointed out. Fueled by that logic and a dash of last-minute packing, we raced against the clock, hoping for a slight delay from our punctual guide. Of course, he arrived right on time, and we were nowhere near ready. Dashing down to the lobby, a wave of panic washed over us – he was gone! Twenty agonizing minutes ticked by before our guide reappeared, thankfully understanding our sleep-deprived state. Relief and excitement flooded us as we finally embarked on the tour. The stunning views from Rainbow Mountain were more than worth the early wake-up call, and the cherry on top? Running into (and finally striking up a conversation with) my Korean crush from the Sacred Valley! Talk about a day filled with unexpected turns and happy endings! Book a Rainbow Mountain Tour

Mobbed in Cusco

With a 1 pm flight looming, we decided to squeeze in a visit to the market before heading to the airport, thanks to its convenient location near our hotel. However, finding a taxi proved difficult. Opting to walk, we soon found ourselves navigating an eerily quiet city with a heavy police presence and deserted streets. Assuming a local celebration was underway, we didn’t think much of it. Unfortunately, a wrong turn led us astray, and upon asking for directions, we received a surprising revelation: the market was closed due to a transportation strike happening that day. A wave of worry washed over us, but relief came swiftly back at the hotel. The receptionist, aware of the strike, assured us not to fret – he knew someone who could get us to the airport! After an hour of waiting, the good news arrived – our ride was here. There was just one small hitch: due to the strike, the driver couldn’t approach the hotel, so we had to walk to meet him. [Read: We Got Mobbed in Cusco]

Our driver warned us about the potential dangers of protesters on the streets due to the strike. His words became frighteningly real when, after ten minutes, a group approached the car, urging us to get out. We managed to drive on briefly, but then the inevitable occurred – our car was surrounded by protestors. In a tense moment, they deflated a tire, leaving us with no choice but to abandon the vehicle and continue on foot. It was a nerve-wracking experience, but thankfully, things didn’t escalate further. We eventually reached the airport shaken but safe, relieved to have made our flight despite the unexpected chaos.

A Night in Lima

After our whirlwind adventures in Cusco, our layover in Lima provided a much-needed chance to relax and recharge before our flight home. While our energy levels didn’t quite allow for extensive sightseeing, we did treat ourselves to a delicious dinner out, capping off our Peruvian adventure on a delightful note. The comfortable accommodations at the Westin provided the perfect place to unwind and reminisce about our unforgettable experiences.

Goodbye Peru

Bidding farewell to Peru felt bittersweet. While my flight to Bogota awaited, marking the end of my travels, it was only two days longer than originally planned. Initially, my itinerary only included a glimpse of Machu Picchu before continuing to Ecuador. However, a fortuitous detour led me to reunite with friends and explore the captivating depths of Peru. This unplanned extension proved to be the golden ticket, transforming my trip from a whistle-stop tour to an unforgettable adventure. From the majestic peaks to the vibrant markets, Peru’s magic had me enthralled. This journey undoubtedly ranks among the best travel experiences of my life, leaving me with a treasure trove of memories and a yearning to return someday.

PERU Travel Tips

Base yourself in the heart of the action: Stay near Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s central square. This vibrant location puts you within walking distance of historical sites, restaurants, and shops.

Group tours for budget-conscious travelers: Consider joining a group tour, especially for day trips outside the city. It can be a cost-effective way to explore while enjoying the convenience of transportation and a guide.

Acclimatization is key: If you have time before hitting the ground running, allow yourself a day to adjust to Cusco’s high altitude (approximately 11,000 feet). Take it easy, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity. If acclimatization isn’t possible, pack some ibuprofen to help manage potential altitude sickness symptoms.

Peru Tours / Activities

Book your tours and hotels with Klook and use our promo code: ESCAPEMANILA to get 3% off on tours and activities and 5% off on hotel bookings.

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Basic Spanish words and phrases to communicate with the locals

• Hola (OH-lah) – Hello/Hi
• Que Pase (keh PAH-seh) – Have a good day
• Como estas? (KOH-moh-ehs-TAHS) – How are you?
• Muy bien, gracias (MOO-ee-byehn, GRAH-syahs) – Fine, thank you.
• Encantado/a (ehn-kahn-TAH-doh/dah) – Nice to meet you.
• Por favor (POHR-fah-BOHR) – Please
• Gracias (GRAH-syahs) – Thank you
• De nada (DAY NAH-dah) – Welcome
• Si (SEE) – Yes
• No (NOH) – No
• Disculpe (dees-KOOL-peh) – Excuse me (getting attention)
• Perdone (pehr-DOHN-eh) – Excuse me (begging pardon)
• Permiso (pehr-MEE-so) – Excuse me (may I get by)
• Adios (ah-DYOHS) – Goodbye
• Hablo un poco español (ah-BLOH oon POH-koh ehs-pah-NYOHL) – I speak a little Spanish.
• No hablo español (noh AH-bloh ehs-pah-NYOL) – I can’t speak Spanish.
• Hablas Ingles? (AH-blahs een-GLEHS?) – Do you speak English?
• Ayuda! (ah-YOO-dah) – Help!
• Buenos dias (BWE-nohs DEE-ahs) – Good morning
• Buenas tardes (BWE-nahs TAR-dehs) – Good afternoon
• Buenas noches (BWE-nahs NOH-chehs) – Good evening / good night
• No entiendo (NOH ehen-tyen-doh) – I don’t understand
• Donde esta el baño? (DOHN-deh ehss-TAH ehl BAH-nyoh?) – Where is the toilet?

In addition to basic Spanish words and phrases, it’s helpful to consider hiring a Spanish language tutor to enhance communication skills. They can provide personalized guidance and practice sessions to improve fluency. With their assistance, navigating conversations and interactions with locals during your trip from Manila to Peru becomes much smoother.

Peru Itinerary and Expenses

Day 0 in Peru
Accommodation in Puno – USD10 / 33 soles
Dinner – 16 soles
Total expenses day 0 – 49 soles

Day 1 in Peru
Lake Titicaca Full Day Tour – USD20
Traditional boat ride in Uros – 10 soles
Dinner – 15 soles
Total expenses day 1 – 91 soles

Day 2 in Peru
Lunch – 16 soles
Dinner – 45 soles
Day tour – 90 soles/3 = 30 soles
General ticket (Cusco attractions + Sacred Valley) – 130 soles
Hotel – USD80/3 = USD27 (discounted from USD120/night)/  88 soles
Grocery – 30 soles
Poncho + hat – 90 soles
Total expenses day 2 – 429 soles 

Day 3
Sacred Valley Tour – 70 soles
Hat – 15 soles
Dinner – 18 soles
Hotel – USD80/3 = USD27 / 88 soles
Total expenses day 3 – 191 soles 

Day 4
Lake Humantay Tour – 70 soles
Water – 5 soles
Entrance to lake – 10 soles
Horse – 50 soles
Dinner – 32 soles
Grocery – 14 soles
Hotel – USD80/3 = USD27 / 88 soles
Total expenses day – 269 soles

Day 5
Machu Picchu Day tour from Cusco – USD240 / 787 soles
Shirt – 35 soles
Ref magnets – 20 soles
Hotel – USD80/3 = USD27 / 88 soles
Total expenses day 5 – 930 soles

Day 6
Rainbow Mountain tour – 70 soles
Entrance – 10 soles
Horse – 90 soles
Dinner – 56 soles
Hotel – USD80/3 = USD27 / 88 soles
Total expenses day 6 – 314 soles

Day 7
Taxi to airport – 120/5 = 24 soles
Plane fare Cusco to Lima – USD80 / 263 soles 
Hotel – USD300/3 = USD100 / 328 soles
Car Lima airport to Westin – 145/3 = 49 soles
Taxi hotel to Restaurant – 15/5 = 3 soles
Grocery – 60 soles
Starbucks tumbler – 40 soles
Midnight snack – 16 soles
Total expenses day 7 – 783 soles

Day 8 
Breakfast – 20 soles
Taxi to the airport – 36 soles
Total expenses day 8 – 58 soles 

Total Expenses Day 0-8 in Peru = PEN3,114 (soles) / Php50,675 ( For expenses before this leg, click here)

LATIN AMERICA BLOG SERIES

• The Road to Latin America: An Intro to Our Adventure in Bogota + Expenses
• A Taste of the Caribbean in Varadero, Cuba
• First Time in CUBA: A Tale of A Filipino Travel Blogger
• Cancun: A Beach Paradise in Mexico
• First time in MEXICO: Itinerary, Expenses and Travel Tips
• What to See from Chichen Itza,  Vestige of the Ancient Maya
• Turibus Mexico: How to Explore Mexico City by Turibus
• Copacabana to Isla del Sol: Pilgrimage to the Ancient Inca Holy Site
• Salar de Uyuni: Heaven’s Mirror on Earth
• First time in BOLIVIA: Itinerary, Expenses and Travel Tips
• Lake Titicaca: A Full Day Itinerary
• Cusco: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• A Visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
• A Journey to the Incan Elite City of Machu Picchu
• First time in PERU: Itinerary, Expenses and Travel tips
• Peru Tourist Spots: Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain of Peru
• Humantay Lake: A Long Journey Towards the Lake  Around the Mountains of Cuzco