While all reputable Inca Jungle tour packages include primary transportation, guide services, meals, and Machu Picchu entrance tickets, navigating the incidental cash expenses along the route requires smart local budgeting. ATMs do not exist between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, making cash planning vital.
Daily Out-of-Pocket Expense Breakdown
In rural Peruvian mountain towns and roadside fruit stalls, US Dollars and credit cards are virtually never accepted. You will need small-denomination Peruvian Soles (PEN) in 10, 20, and 50 sol banknotes, along with 1, 2, and 5 sol coins.
| Tour Day | Item / Service | Typical Cost (in Soles – PEN) | Approximate USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Roadside snacks, bottled water, toilet access | 15 – 25 PEN | $4 – $7 USD |
| Day 2 | Fresh fruit at farm stops, artisanal coffee tasting | 20 – 30 PEN | $5 – $8 USD |
| Day 2 (Evening) | Cocalmayo Hot Springs entrance ticket | 10 – 20 PEN (Local vs Foreigner rate) | $3 – $6 USD |
| Day 2 (Evening) | Local transport shuttle to Cocalmayo and back | 10 – 15 PEN round-trip | $3 – $4 USD |
| Day 3 | Cold hydration, energy bars along railway tracks | 20 – 35 PEN | $5 – $9 USD |
| Day 4 | Consettur bus ticket (Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu) | $12 USD one-way / $24 USD round-trip | $12 – $24 USD |
| Day 4 | Machu Picchu Sanctuary toilet entry (mandatory fee) | 2.50 PEN per use | $0.70 USD |
| All Days | Guide, cook, and driver gratuities (tips) | 100 – 150 PEN recommended total | $27 – $40 USD |
Recommended Cash Reserve Per Traveler
- Total Cash Recommendation: Carry roughly 350 to 450 Peruvian Soles (approx. $95 to $120 USD) in cash per person for the entire 4-day journey.
- Avoid Large Banknotes: Local fruit sellers and small stores cannot break 100 or 200 sol notes. Break large bills at supermarkets or restaurants in Cusco prior to departure.
- Crisp Banknotes for USD: If paying remaining tour balances in USD at the Cusco office, bills must be crisp and un-torn. Peruvian banks reject US bills with even minor tears or pen marks.
ATM Warning
The ATMs in Aguas Calientes frequently run out of cash during high season or charge exorbitant transaction surcharges. Withdraw all necessary cash from official bank ATMs in Cusco before the tour starts.
Money-Saving Facts
- Hiking the Machu Picchu Stairs: You can save the $12 USD bus fee by walking the 1,700 ancient stone steps up to the citadel at 4:30 AM (approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes of steep climbing).
- Water Refills: Carrying a water purifier or refilling boiled water at evening lodges saves 30 to 50 soles over four days and protects the environment.
