Travel Budget for Lake Titicaca (Puno) Visit Lake Titicaca (Puno) on a Budget or Travel in Style

Lake Titicaca (Puno), Departamento de Puno, Peru
South America / Peru /
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Lake Titicaca (Puno) is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Lake Titicaca (Puno)?

You should plan to spend around $65 (S/.244) per day on your vacation in Lake Titicaca (Puno). This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $26 (S/.98) on meals
  • $10 (S/.39) on local transportation
  • $51 (S/.193) on hotels

A one week trip to Lake Titicaca (Puno) for two people costs, on average, $906 (S/.3,416). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $65
    S/.244
  • One Week Per person
    $453
    S/.1,708
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $906
    S/.3,416
  • One Month Per person
    $1,941
    S/.7,320
  • One Week For a couple
    $906
    S/.3,416
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $1,811
    S/.6,832
  • One Month For a couple
    $3,881
    S/.14,640
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Lake Titicaca (Puno) cost?

A one week trip to Lake Titicaca (Puno) usually costs around $453 (S/.1,708) for one person and $906 (S/.3,416) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Lake Titicaca (Puno) on average costs around $906 (S/.3,416) for one person and $1,811 (S/.6,832) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Lake Titicaca (Puno) will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Lake Titicaca (Puno) on average costs around $1,941 (S/.7,320) for one person and $3,881 (S/.14,640) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Lake Titicaca (Puno) expensive to visit?

Lake Titicaca (Puno) is a charming destination that draws in visitors with an array of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary choices. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

Although Lake Titicaca (Puno) can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by looking for discounts and coupons.

On average, budget travelers spend $25 (S/.95) per day, mid-range travelers spend $65 (S/.244) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $171 (S/.643) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Lake Titicaca (Puno).

Within South America, Lake Titicaca (Puno) is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Huaraz or Quito.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Lake Titicaca (Puno) Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Lake Titicaca (Puno)?

The average Lake Titicaca (Puno) trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Lake Titicaca (Puno) travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Lake Titicaca (Puno) cost?

Lake Titicaca (Puno) on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$10
(S/.37) 		$26
(S/.96) 		$67
(S/.252)
Local Transportation 1 $4
(S/.14) 		$10
(S/.39) 		$32
(S/.122)
Food 2 $10
(S/.38) 		$26
(S/.98) 		$67
(S/.254)
Entertainment 1 $11
(S/.43) 		$29
(S/.109) 		$73
(S/.274)
Alcohol 2 $2-7
(S/.9-28) 		$6-19
(S/.24-71) 		$16-48
(S/.60-179)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Lake Titicaca (Puno) on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.

What is a budget traveler, anyway?

You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $25 that backpackers often get by on.

Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.

Luckily, Lake Titicaca (Puno) has plenty of hostels like Kantaya Hostel, Iguana Hostel Puno, and Bothy Backpaker Hostel. At these hostels, you can find affordable dorm beds and a vibrant social scene, but amenities tend to be quite limited.

Are You Considered an Average Traveler?

As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. It's a common desire for visitors to Lake Titicaca (Puno) to experience the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $65 per person, per day.

There's a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals in Lake Titicaca (Puno). If you're traveling with others, sharing a hotel room with a partner, friend, or kids will help split costs and save money. When traveling as a family, look for hotels and restaurants that welcome children. Tierra Viva Puno Plaza is a great choice for kids, and Conde de Lemos Hotel is another wonderful option. For more family and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our Lake Titicaca (Puno) hotel costs guide.

Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?

If you're looking for an all-encompassing vacation filled with luxurious amenities and higher-level service, prepare your budget for around $171 per day. Selecting nicer hotels, savoring meals at award-winning establishments, indulging in lavish adventures, and traveling around the destination with taxis or private drivers will call for a luxury budget. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Speedboat Day Trip to Uros and Taquile From Puno - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Lake Titicaca (Puno)

The price of hotels in Lake Titicaca (Puno) can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury and amenities, but with much higher price tags, especially during peak season. Off-season averages are around $43, while peak season averages can reach $80. Prices range from $22 to $172, but hostels are usually cheaper. Traveling during the low season and booking early are good ways to save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Lake Titicaca (Puno) for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $51 (S/.193). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $26 (S/.96) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $26
    S/.96
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $51
    S/.193

Hotels in Lake Titicaca (Puno)

Looking for a hotel in Lake Titicaca (Puno)? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Lake Titicaca (Puno)

The average hotel room price in Lake Titicaca (Puno) based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $43 in the low season and $80 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Lake Titicaca (Puno) include:

  • Casa Andina Premium Puno starting at $102
  • Sonesta Posadas del Inca Puno starting at $84
  • Camino Real Turistico starting at $32
  • Tierra Viva Puno Plaza starting at $63
  • Casa Andina Standard Puno starting at $57
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Lake Titicaca (Puno)

Traveling during the shoulder or low season (instead of ) means you'll get lower prices on accommodations and have fewer crowds to deal with.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Lake Titicaca (Puno)

In Lake Titicaca (Puno), the public transit system is not very good.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $10 (S/.39) per person, per day, on local transportation in Lake Titicaca (Puno). The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Lake Titicaca (Puno) is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $10
    S/.39

A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:

  • Puno Arrival Transfer from Juliaca Airport for $45 details
  • Puno Arrival Transfer from bus or railway Station for $14 details
  • Puno Airport Shared Transfer for $20 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Lake Titicaca (Puno)
How much does it cost to go to Lake Titicaca (Puno)? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Lake Titicaca (Puno)
The price of renting a car in Lake Titicaca (Puno) will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.


What did other people spend on Transportation in Lake Titicaca (Puno)?

Listed below are some transit expenses in Lake Titicaca (Puno), taken from reports by other travelers. These costs offer a snapshot of transportation prices in the city to give you an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that your costs may differ, especially if you opt for more expensive options like taxis, which typically cost more than public transportation.


  • Taxi
    S/.3.00


Food Budget in Lake Titicaca (Puno)

Food is a major attraction for travelers, so make sure you don't miss out on the local culinary delights.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Lake Titicaca (Puno) can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Lake Titicaca (Puno) is $26 (S/.98) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $26
    S/.98

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Lake Titicaca (Puno) is around $26 (S/.98) per person, with previous travelers spending from $10 to $68. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Lake Titicaca (Puno) are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $3 to $8
  • Lunch: $4 to $10
  • Dinner: $8 to $18
  • Coffee: $2
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $4

When it comes to meals in Lake Titicaca, you'll be relying on the locals to make the menu. If you enjoy simple and humble meals grown, caught, or harvested right outside of your home for the night, you'll have plenty to look forward to. Staples include fish, quinoa, rice, and potatoes. Common meals may consist of a quinoa soup, mashed potatoes, and lightly fried fish seasoned simply with lime and salt.

If you're looking for something a bit more elaborate, head back to the port of Puno, where you can find vegan cuisine, pizza, and fine local dining.

Accommodation
Homestays are the way to stay on the islands of Lake Titicaca and many can be booked with tour agencies. However, tour agencies take a large cut of the payment and thus, to best benefit the hosts, go to the port and ask the locals who work there for recommendations so that you can pay host families directly.

Regardless of where you're staying, pack layers for versatility and warmth and remember that you won't be able to depend on electricity to charge up your modern amenities, so charge up ahead of time and even bring your own battery pack.

Don't forget to bring a gift for your host families. Recommended items include food staples such as pasta, rice, and cooking oil. Fresh fruits are difficult to obtain on the islands and will be much appreciated. Non-food items including school supplies, toys, and rechargeable flashlights are another well-received gift.

Food & Dining Tips

Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.

Carry a reusable water bottle with you to avoid spending on drinks. It's also a win for the environment.

While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.


What did other people spend on food and dining in Lake Titicaca (Puno)?

Listed below are typical food prices in Lake Titicaca (Puno), based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.


  • Tamales
    S/.5.50


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Lake Titicaca (Puno)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Lake Titicaca (Puno) typically cost an average of $29 (S/.109) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $29
    S/.109

Take a boat ride to explore the islands of Lake Titicaca. As you float along the river, you'll observe that the water changes from murky and dark to crisp and clear, depending on your location.

Visit the Uros islands or book a homestay to explore the way of the Uros people to learn about their culture and history. The Uros people build everything out of reeds, from homes to furniture to boats and even the islands themselves, you'll learn a lot about how the Uros people construct and anchor their own islands in the lake and also detach and float away if necessary.

Those who want to rough it and experience life before technology will love Amantani Island, another small island that 4,000 residents call home. Visit the two mountain peaks, Pachamama and Pachatata, upon which ancient ruins sit, waiting to be explored. With no electricity, hotels or vehicles on the island, you'll experience basic living and the true culture and lifestyle of the locals.

History buffs will enjoy the the island of Taquile for the pre-Inca ruins as well as the beautiful views of the Bolivian snow-capped mountains. Like Amantani, Taquile remains untouched by modern technology and most residents still use candles or hand-crank powered flashlights. With so little artificial light, Taquile is the ideal spot for stargazing. It also retains much of its culture in its handicrafts and textiles.

Just a quarter mile from Lake Titicaca is the port city of Puno, where you can visit the public market every Saturday to shop for local produce, bread, grains, and potatoes. Puno is also known as the folklore capital of Peru, where you can always find a festival, exhibit or parade in its streets. Visit for Puno Week in the first week of November for music, dancing and parades that last until late into the night.



Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Lake Titicaca (Puno). Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • 2 Day Tour to Uros, Amantani and Taquile from Puno for $65 details
  • Lake Titicaca Uros Floating Islands Half-Day Tour for $25 details
  • Tour Uros and Taquile in Speedboat (full day) for $59 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Lake Titicaca (Puno)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $13 (S/.47) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Lake Titicaca (Puno) per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $13
    S/.47
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.



Budgeting and Travel Tips for Lake Titicaca (Puno)

  • During , the destination can get really crowded, and prices go up significantly. To avoid the crowds and save some money, it's best to visit during the shoulder seasons or low season.
  • Slowing down while you travel can lead to significant savings, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. If you overload your itinerary with activities, you'll likely spend a lot more. However, embracing a slower pace can help you enjoy your trip and cut costs.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Lake Titicaca (Puno) offers limited public transit options. Having a pre-arranged ride, such as a private driver or tour, could be a wise choice. Just remember, this might take a toll on your budget in other areas.
  • Lake Titicaca (Puno) isn't known for its abundance of hostels, so if you're hoping to crash in a budget-friendly dorm, you might need to rethink your strategy. Consider looking for an affordable hotel or an apartment rental instead.
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Traveling in Lake Titicaca (Puno)
Lake Titicaca (Puno) Lake Titicaca, Peru

Lake Titicaca, which directly translates to "puma stone" in Quechua, is located high in the Andes Mountains straddling Peru and Bolivia, with about 60% of the lake in Peru and 40% in Bolivia. Among the lake are three main islands, the most popular of which are the Uros Islands, also known as the floating islands, where the Uros people live on totora reeds that grow in the lake.

Known as the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca sits at 12,507 feet and covers a little more than 3,200 square miles.

With that elevation, the most difficult part about visiting the area may very well be the altitude. Unless you are acclimated to the mountains, you'll likely experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, indigestion, and/or insomnia.

If you are unable to acclimate after a few days, it's best to descend to a lower elevation and try again later, and more slowly. You can also opt to take Diamox (a prescription pill which you can buy in the U.S.) 24 hours before arriving at the altitude, drop chlorophyll drops to drink in your water, chew coca leaves, and drink mate de coca (coca tea). Above all, it's important to take it easy and not overexert yourself until you've acclimated. Some hotels also offer oxygen tanks for those who are unable to handle the change in altitude so quickly.

Lake Titicaca is wettest in the month of November and experiences heavy rainfall all throughout January. Visit between May and September for average highs in the 80s and evening lows in the 40s.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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