Eco Tips inside the route

Always stay in small family guesthouses or basic eco-lodges instead of hotels. Use only collectivo vans and public buses for moving around. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever possible. Bring your own cloth bag for shopping at markets and never accept plastic bags. Eat at local comedores and small family places rather than tourist restaurants.

Mistakes to avoid

Many budget travelers end up taking too many taxis which quickly adds up in cost and impact. Try to plan your days so you can use public transport efficiently. Another mistake is forgetting about altitude and trying to do too much on the first days in Cusco. Also avoid buying cheap souvenirs made of plastic even if they look traditional.

Alternative options

If you have only 7 days you can remove two days from the Sacred Valley and spend less time in Cusco. For even tighter budget you can stay in shared dorm rooms in small hostels and cook some meals yourself. If you want a bit more comfort while still keeping it budget friendly look for family rooms in eco-lodges.