15 Budget-Friendly Destinations Perfect for Young Explorers

3. Cusco, Peru: Beyond Machu Picchu, Into Sacred Valley Villages

While Machu Picchu is a must-see, Cusco itself is a hub for budget adventures. Instead of an expensive train to Aguas Calientes, consider the alternative Salkantay Trek for a more challenging and rewarding route to the ruins, often costing significantly less. Explore the Sacred Valley’s lesser-visited villages like Pisac or Ollantaytambo by local colectivo (shared van), bargaining for textiles at artisan markets. For a deeper dive into local culture, take a cooking class at a community-run kitchen, learning to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado from scratch.