Top 10 Places in South America to Visit on a Budget
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|Updated on November,28,2024|
What does traveling to South America on a budget look like? Well, after the planning is done, all that’s left to do is to spend your time searching for wildlife, watching sunsets, and adventuring.
Exploring this continent can be daunting—that’s understandable. However, don’t let it deter you from enjoying the crazy things to do in South America while traveling.
To start, find the cheapest flight to one of the countries listed below. From there, you can drive, take a bus, or book flights from one country to the other.
Narrow your search by checking out these top 10 places to visit on a budget in South America.
Top 10 Places in South America to Visit on a Budget
Colombia
Colombia is the perfect destination for you if you’re seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery. You can kayak, bungee jump, surf, rock climb, and more with stunning landscapes as your backdrop.
Plan your trip during the off-season (late August to November) for fewer crowds. While it’s the rainy season, you’ll find that rain is less of an issue along the coast and in the highlands.
Accommodation rates reflect the city you’ll visit. Medellin will be the more affordable choice. Depending on your budget, consider adding Bogota, Cartagena, or Cali to your itinerary.
Get around as locals do and consider taking a night bus from place to place. It’ll save you time, and you can sleep during the ride!
The average cost per day ($20-70)
Meal: $10-20
Transportation: Bus–$1-2 one-way, Car rentals from $19
Accommodation: $8 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay in Colombia
Book Oasis Hostel– Stay at the heart of Laureles in Medellin, which has diverse restaurants and a huge soccer/football scene.
Sites – Near Lleras Park, one of the many party districts, is only a 12-minute walk. The hotel has modern amenities, beautiful views, and a relaxing pool.
TRYP by Wyndham Bogotá Embajada– The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá is six minutes walking distance, and airport shuttles are free! This modern hotel is part of the Wyndham Group, so reward points apply here.
Book Hotel el Peñón in Cali is More of a boutique hotel where the staff goes above and beyond to ensure you’re happy with your stay. Cali’s landmark, Caicedo Square, is only a four-minute drive.
Want to know more about Colombia? Read this Colombia travel guide post.
Uruguay
Uruguay is South America’s best-kept secret. With its breathtaking beaches, wildlife, and unique urban life, it will surpass your expectations.
What makes a trip are the people. Uruguay’s accommodating locals and fascinating cultural history make it easy to immerse yourself in the country. The conversation doesn’t cost money, and those memories will stay with you.
Uruguay’s off-season ranges from September to November and March to May. Cheap accommodations are possible, with hostels being the cheapest.
Flying into Uruguay means you’ll enter through its busiest airport in Montevideo, the capital. For first-timers, it’s best to stay a few days in Montevideo to acclimate to the land and people. The small beach towns, such as Cabo Polonio, take less than 4 hours by car or bus from Montevideo.
Eat authentically and cheaply by trying Uruguay’s delicious street food. In Montevideo, try Choripans-imagine a hot dog with a spicy twist. If you have access to a kitchen, cooking with local ingredients will help you save money and understand the culture. Shopping at the market allows you to meet new people and practice your Spanish.
The average cost per day ($20-50)
Meal: $10-20
Transportation: Bus – $1-2 one-way, Car rentals from $20
Accommodation: $11 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay in Uruguay
Great vibes with a bus stop nearby to take you anywhere in Montevideo. The scenic walk to Cagancha Square takes less than 25 minutes.
Book Puerto Mercado Hotel in Montevideo
The Waterfront Hotel is located in the Old City, where major parks and landmarks are minutes away on foot.
Book BIT Design Hotel in Montevideo
The Punta Carretas neighborhood is considered to be a shopping district. Located near the water for spectacular sunset views.
Quirky Hostel in Cabo Polonio with family dinners and welcoming staff. Located right by the beach and the iconic lighthouse is a 15-minute walk.
Top Things to Do in Uruguay South America
- Montevideo: Half-Day Sightseeing Tour
Discover the beauty of Montevideo on a top-ranked half-day sightseeing tour! Explore the city’s historic landmarks, charming neighborhoods, and stunning coastline. Don’t miss this highly-rated adventure – book now and experience the essence of Uruguay’s capital!
- Colonia del Sacramento Full Day Tour
Embark on a full-day adventure from Montevideo to the enchanting Colonia del Sacramento, a top-ranked UNESCO World Heritage Site! Explore its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and rich history. Don’t miss this highly-rated journey – book now and step back in time in Uruguay’s most charming city!
- Montevideo: 1.5-Hour Winery Visit with Tastings
For wine lovers, don’t miss out on this tour of an award-winning local Montevideo winery. Explore the vineyards and try some wine straight from the source! Don’t miss this highly-rated experience – reserve now and raise your glass to a delightful day in Montevideo!”
Here you can find a full one-week Uruguay itinerary.
Related article:
|Top 10 Budget-Friendly Destinations
Ecuador
Ecuador boasts five UNESCO cultural heritage sites, making it a favorite amongst budget travelers. With one flight, you have access to so much Incan history. Don’t forget the Galapagos Islands, which you can visit anytime and observe animals not found anywhere else on Earth.
The off-season ranges from February to April, then September to November. Carnival begins in February, which can be doable budget-wise with proper planning. Remember to pack for the dry season since temperatures get cooler then.
Start your trip to Quito, then make your way out to the coast. The drive normally takes five hours, but the trip is worth it. You’ll have access to beaches like Puerto Lopez, where whale watching is huge. The food there will be different from Quito. Quito is heavy on the starches, whereas coastal towns are big on seafood.
The average cost per day ($18-30)
Meal: $10-20
Transportation: Bus – $1-2 one-way, Car rentals from $21
Accommodation: $7 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay in Ecuador
Book Hotel Plaza del Teatro in Quito
Located in the Quito Historic Center, this colonial building is convenient for walkers as Ecuador’s iconic sites are within walking distance.
Book Hotel San Francisco de Quito in Quito
Located in the Quito Historic Center with a beautiful 360 rooftop view of the city. Affordable rates with old-world charm.
Find yourself in a hostel located in the middle of the Quito Historic Center. Staff equipped to recommend places and deals and go out of their way to book you affordable taxis.
Book Hosteria Cabanas Itapoa – Hostel in Puerto Lopez
A pet-friendly hostel on Puerto Lopez Beach that offers 10 beach bars for you to choose from.
Best Things to Do in Ecuador South America
- Day Trip to Ingapirca Archaeological Site
Learn about Inca culture on this 8-hour tour of the archaeological complex built over 500 years ago, the Ingapirca. Go on Sunday, and you can shop at the local market in Cañar. Don’t miss this highly-rated journey – book now and step back in time to uncover the secrets of Ingapirca!
- Cotopaxi National Park Full-Day Tour from Quito
A naturalist guide takes you on a 9-hour tour of Cotopaxi National Park that includes hiking through the Andes mountains with a breathtaking view of volcanoes. Don’t miss this highly-rated adventure – book now and elevate your Ecuadorian experience!
- The Historic City of Quito Tour
Take a 9-hour tour of Quito highlighting historic centers. Includes a walk around diverse neighborhoods such as La Ronda for the artists and the Middle of the World City- where the northern and southern hemispheres are divided. Don’t miss this highly-rated journey – book now and experience the best of Ecuador’s capital!
Peru
Peru is a traveler’s dream with its gastronomy, biodiversity, and historical sites. Whether hiking to one of the highest waterfalls in the world or bonding with llamas, both are possible here. Choosing between the Andean mountains, the coastline, and the Amazon will be the toughest choice you’ll have to make before leaving.
The off-season starts in January and ends in April. It will constantly rain, so hiking trails will be closed. The dry season, from May to October, guarantees the best weather to appreciate Peru’s natural beauty. Planning your trip will minimize costs.
Cusco is Peru’s main airport and the closest to Machu Picchu. Starting your trip in Cusco and making your way to Machu Picchu is a budget-friendly option. However, if you prefer beaches to landmarks, fly to Lima.
In Lima, you’ll have access to local wines and Peruvian brandy called piscos, which is highly recommended to try. Maybe bring some back to your friends and family!
The average cost per day ($20-30)
Meal: $9-20
Transportation: Bus – $0.56-2 one-way, Car rentals from $18
Accommodation: $11 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay
Mountain hotel for guaranteed peace of mind where tourist attractions are less than a 10-minute drive.
The small yet friendly family-run hostel is a short walk from Cusco’s main square. Lima Hostel is located near Miraflores Central Park. Iconic landmarks are within walking distance, and the continental breakfast has great reviews.
Located in the quaint Las Orquideas neighborhood- conveniently near Machu Picchu. Nearby is a metro stop with many food options on top of a continental breakfast.
Brazil
Brazil is known to be the land of coffee, sugar, and smiles for a reason. It’s the largest country in South America that offers travelers cosmopolitan cities and undisturbed natural biodiversity. Come here, and you’ll have a chance to see a wonder of the world, the Christ Redeemer Statue.
Cities like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are crowded all year round. May to September is the official off-season, making June the cheapest month for airfare. July is a school holiday, so prices will increase for that month.
Make your way to small towns and villages in the Southeast and North if you want to get away from crowded large cities. Before you leave the city, you must visit a favela. You won’t understand Brazilian culture until you do.
Consider Minas Gerais or Bahia for a relaxed, less expensive trip but just as culturally relevant. For you dancers out there, Bahia is the birthplace of samba, so make sure to go.
Drink-wise, you must try caipirinhas- Brazil’s national cocktail. It’s made out of cachaça, which is a liquor distilled from sugarcane. You probably won’t find it at home, so bring some back with you to make caipirinhas for small get-togethers.
The average cost per day ($30-70)
Meal: $10-25
Transportation: Bus – $1-2 one-way Car rentals from $15
Accommodation: $15 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay in Brazil
Conveniently located steps from Porto da Barra Beach, wake up and take a swim in crystalline waters. Less than three miles away from the center of Salvador.
Located in Pelourinho, Salvador’s certified UNESCO World Heritage Site, this award-winning hostel accommodates party people and chill crowds. Take advantage of the huge free breakfast and caipirinhas.
Located in Rio’s liveliest neighborhood, Copacabana, this modern hotel is less than 10 minutes away, within walking distance from Avenida Atlantica and Copacabana Beach. Luxurious for the price.
Located in Sao Paulo, this hostel comes packed with a cinema, library, front garden, and daily art-related workshops. A must for digital nomads- the networking opportunities are endless.
Best Things to Do in Brazil
- From Foz do Iguaçu: Brazilian Side of the Falls
Explore the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls starting from Foz do Igaçu. It lasts three to six hours and you’ll see over 270 waterfalls. Expect to hike to get an intimate view of the largest waterfall- Devil’s Throat Waterfall, marking the border between Argentina and Brazil. Book now.
- São Paulo: Best Kept Secrets Small-Group Walking Tour
The educational tour begins at São Paulo’s iconic landmark, São Bento Monastery, and takes you around an architectural time capsule unique to this city that lasts 2.5 hours. Take your appreciation for art to a whole new level now.
- Rio de Janeiro: Favela Santa Marta Tour
Discover the vibrant spirit of Rio de Janeiro’s Santa Marta Favela with a top-ranked local guide! Immerse yourself in the culture, art, and community of this unique neighborhood. Don’t miss this highly-rated, eye-opening journey – book now and experience the heart of Brazil like never before!
Argentina
Argentina is home to nature’s unique places in South America. It’s the perfect blend of European and Spanish culture. Once you go there, you’ll notice how many Europeans never left because they fell in love with the place.
With proper budgeting, you can visit the Andes mountains and Parque Nacional Los Glaciares within a two-day trip. Before you get on the road, pack some exotic fruit. Along the way, eat main meals at local restaurants. Try some Asado & parrillas and take empanadas to-go. This way, you’ll save money and eat well.
The weather varies from North to South, so depending on the month you’re traveling, you should plan your trip around that. Off-season travel ranges from October to December and April to June.
Flying into Buenos Aires and starting your trip there gives you time to adjust to Argentinian culture. Public transport is cheap and reliable, so taking taxis isn’t necessary.
Depending on how much time you have, consider going north. You can visit Iguazu Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. This wonder falls between Brazil and Argentina. Once there, Brazil is a short car ride. In one trip, you can visit two South American countries on a budget. That’s what we call a win-win!
For wine lovers, consider driving west into Mendoza, as that part is responsible for over 80% of wine production in Argentina. If you have other plans, you can always sample wine in Buenos Aires.
The average cost per day ($30-70)
Meal: $10-20
Transportation: Bus – $1-2 one-way, Car rentals from $25
Accommodation: $20 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay in Argentina
Book Arc Abasto Studios in Buenos Aires
Aparthotel is linked to the Abasto Shopping Center for effortless shopping. Classical theaters, historical palaces, and beautifully designed parks are a 30-minute walk.
Located in San Telmo, Buenos Aires, this hostel prides itself on its minimalist design and spacious rooms. It comes with a pool, which is rare to find in hostels.
In the heart of Mendoza, the hostel boasts of its ability to combine modernity with nature. The hostel’s architect, Daniel Ramos, is the mind behind Mendoza’s famous landmarks and square.
Book Marín Apartments in Puerto Iguazú
Stay near the Iguazu Falls on the Argentinian side in Marin Apartments. Rooms come equipped with kitchens, bedrooms, and living rooms, making them perfect for families or travelers who want to feel at home.
Best Things to Do in Argentina
- Buenos Aires: Malbec Wine Tasting Experience
For two hours, get your fill of Argentinian wine from a local wine cellar with an expert sommelier ready to enhance your tour. Delight your palate with the rich flavors and aromas of this iconic wine variety. Don’t miss this highly-rated opportunity – reserve your spot now and toast to the flavors of Argentina!”
- High Andes Aconcagua Mountain Tour
Explore Mendoza on a full-day tour of the Andes that includes views from Aconcagua, the highest point in the Americas, and a visit to Uspallata, a village relevant to Incan history. Don’t miss this highly-rated journey – book now and elevate your Mendoza adventure!”
- Horseback Riding in the Andes with Authentic BBQ
Taste mouthwatering Asado, or Argentinian BBQ, with folk music to accompany your meal. This seven-hour tour includes horseback riding through the stunning Andes with a guide helping you along the way. Book now and ride into the heart of Argentina’s wilderness!
Read this article from Nomadic Matt to learn the best Argentina tips.
Bolivia
Bolivia is an up-and-coming destination, making it more affordable than its neighboring countries. The biggest expense will be your ticket to Bolivia. Accommodations and food won’t make a massive dent in your wallet, giving you the freedom to explore Bolivia’s diverse terrain.
The dry season begins in April and ends in October, making it an ideal time for travel. The highland area will be incredibly cold from June to July, so pack accordingly.
Fly into Santa Cruz de la Sierra or La Paz and take a few days to walk around the city. Consider staying at a hostel or with local residents. Eating fresh local street food will also help lower expenses.
To get around, you can take public transportation or taxis. Hiring trufis is the better option because it’s a taxi with a set route and rate. The language barrier won’t be an issue here.
Seasoned travelers begin in Santa Cruz and drive west to La Paz. The altitude will gradually increase, giving your body time to adjust. Cheap accommodations won’t be hard to find, just plan ahead of time.
A five-star meal costs a fraction of what it would in surrounding countries known for its gastronomy. Though you’ll want to try Anticuchos- beef or chicken heart-based. As a recipe, it dates back to the 16th century. It seems that time travel is possible through food.
We can assure you as Bolivia becomes a popular destination, the prices won’t stay this way forever.
The average cost per day ($20-40)
Meal: $5-10
Transportation: Bus – $1-2 one-way, Car rentals from $35
Accommodation: $8 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay in Bolivia
Book Prince Hotel in Santa Cruz
A modest hotel in the heart of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Includes an outdoor pool for a relaxing swim. Scenic landmarks are within a 15-minute driving distance.
Located in Downtown La Paz, the iconic witches’ market and Plaza San Francisco take less than 5 minutes to drive. Public transport nearby with amazing views on the terrace.
360 Grados Hostel Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Located on Los Pozos, a well-known street market in Santa Cruz de la Sierra with access to fresh fruit, vegetables, and local art. Trufis are available nearby, with staff ready to help.
An Irish-owned hostel in a La Paz building that’s over 120 years old. Has been renovated with a party always happening thanks to the attached authentic Irish bar.
Chile
After your time in Bolivia, consider taking a bus or driving to Chile. The money you saved on your Bolivia trip can be well-spent here. From La Paz, the drive will take less than a day. Your only expense will be gas and food, which is still cheaper than a flight.
Start your Chile trip in the Atacama Desert, and stay in San Pedro de Atacama, a beautiful local town. According to NASA, it’s one of the driest deserts on Earth. On your adventure out there, you may be offered some coca tea. It’s up to you if you want to partake.
For sunny beaches and vibrant art, take a local bus north to La Serena. It is a proper city, home to a variety of colonial and neo-colonial architecture. If you want to go south, check out Santiago, but budget accordingly. Buses in Chile are a convenient and inexpensive option for these trips.
You’ll find better hotel and hostel rates during the low season, September to November, and March to May.
The average cost per day ($20-40)
Meal: $5-15
Transportation: Bus – $1-2 one-way, Car rentals from $25
Accommodation: $12 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay in Chile
Casa Sirius – San Pedro de Atacama Hotels
Rest at Casa Sirius after a day of exploring the Atacama desert. Located in the town of San Pedro de Atacama, a family-run operation with cozy amenities.
Stay in the middle of the Atacama desert in the Casa Voyage hostel. The building is over 250 years old, with panoramic views of the desert and a bohemian vibe that makes it an oasis.
Book Cuatro Esquinas de Italia in La Serena
Located near La Serena Beach, this apartment includes a kitchen, terrace, and balcony for ultimate privacy. Elqui Valley, a must-see for those on a spiritual quest, is only a 10-minute drive.
El Arbol Hostel is conveniently located in downtown La Serena, the colonial area. Many restaurants are nearby, and the beach is within walking distance.
Best Things to Do in Chile
- San Pedro de Atacama: Astronomical Tour
For astronomy lovers, this two-hour tour takes you to the Atacama desert to observe stars in the clearest sky possible. Your guide helps with viewing stars and celestial bodies on a telescope. Don’t miss this highly-rated stargazing adventure – book now and reach for the stars in Chile’s desert paradise!
- San Pedro de Atacama: Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache
A four-hour tour takes you to the middle of the Atacama desert to visit the lagoons of Baltinache, well known for their high salt content. These natural salty pools always keep you afloat. Book now and immerse yourself in the magic of Chile’s desert oasis!
- Concha y Toro Winery Tour with Transfer
The tour begins in Santiago and takes you on a trip to Concha y Toro winery, where you’ll have two hours to explore the surrounding area full of parks and vineyards and taste delicious wine while you do so. Reserve your spot now and raise a glass to the finest in Chilean hospitality!
Aruba
Consider Aruba if you’re a beginner to Latin American travel experiences. Prioritize adventure rather than lavish amenities to stay within budget. Rates during the off-season in September and October ensure you avoid the typical crowds of the winter and summer holidays.
Aruba used to be a Dutch colony, so a lot of landmarks and street names are in Dutch. It’ll throw you off for the first few days, but you’ll get the hang of it.
Once you fly into Oranjestad, rent a car. It comes highly recommended by locals and visitors alike. It gives you the freedom to tour the whole island at your own pace rather than locking yourself in one area. Taxis can get expensive, and public transport is limited to where it can take you.
Some places to drive to include San Nicolas in the south, the California Lighthouse in the north, and don’t forget the spectacular beaches. Noord is a tourism center that includes Palm Beach and world-class golf resorts. Renting a jeep for a self-guided tour of Arikok National Park is a must for nature lovers.
All-inclusive resorts can get pricey. Finding cheap accommodations and eating fresh local food will help you stay within budget. You didn’t go to Aruba to have a burger, you went to try their national dish, the Keshi Yena.
Make sure to talk to locals, as many know several languages, and can give you tips on what to see.
The average cost per day ($40-80)
Meal: $10-30
Transportation: Bus – $2-3 one-way, Car rentals from $24
Accommodation: $ 29 and up
Best Budget Places to Stay in Aruba
Rest in a colonial home located in the middle of Oranjestad. Only private rooms are available at reasonable rates- very budget-friendly.
Book Pega Pega Apartments in Oranjestad
Stay at an entire apartment near Surfside Beach in Oranjestad. Historically relevant landmarks are within walking distance, with the beach being five minutes away.
Book Little Jungle Apartments Aruba in Noord
An apartment hotel near Eagle Beach has a full kitchen with a Super Food Plaza nearby, giving you the freedom to cook and save money.
Book A1 Apartments Aruba in Oranjestad
Located near Renaissance Mall Aruba, this family-run hotel operates in a quiet neighborhood where island vibes are the only vibe.
Things to Do in Aruba
- Boat Trip with Snorkeling and Open Bar
Sail on an open bar catamaran where within 3 hours, you will snorkel in the clear waters of Catalina Bay and take a look at a shipwreck from World War II. Don’t miss this highly-rated island adventure – book now and make waves in the turquoise waters of Aruba.
- Horseback Ride Tour to Wariruri Beach
Within a two-hour tour, you’ll horseback ride on Aruba’s beaches, beginning at Rancho Amistad and ending at the stellar Wariruri Beach. Intimately observe the turquoise sea and Aruba’s native plants on horseback. Book now and discover the natural beauty of Aruba from a unique perspective!
- Noord: Happy Hour Sunset Cruise
Sunset lovers rejoice, this two-hour catamaran tour includes an open cocktail bar with views of the Caribbean Sea and the California Lighthouse to accompany you. Don’t miss this highly-rated evening adventure – reserve now and toast to a memorable Aruban sunset!
Paraguay
Paraguay may be landlocked, but they make up for it with its breathtaking biodiversity and shopping deals. The country does not have a national airline carrier, so flying here will require a layover.
Flights land in the capital, Asuncion. History lovers will appreciate the preserved artifacts and architecture. Most hotels and hostels offer shopping tours in Ciudad del Este, where you can splurge on tax-free products. For the local experience, the Mercado Cuatro is a shopping market similar to a bazaar. You’ll find more handmade items here which make perfect gifts.
You won’t have to travel far outside Asuncion to hike. Less than three hours away is the Parque Nacional Ybycuí, home to numerous waterfalls and trails. Less than seven hours away is Parque Nacional Cerro Corá, home to rock carvings dating from 5000 to 2500 BCE.
Paraguay doesn’t have an official peak season, but you can find cheap flights from September to December. In February, Paraguay hosts Carnaval, which can be cheaper than celebrating it in neighboring Latin American countries.
The average cost per day ($20-30)
Meal: $5-10
Transportation: Bus – $1-2 one-way, Car rentals from $21
Accommodation: $11 and up
FAQ About South America
- How much should I budget for a South America backpacking trip? For budget travelers, costs can range between $25–$50 per day, depending on the country, accommodation type, and activities planned. Bolivia and Colombia are typically cheaper, while countries like Argentina may cost slightly more.
- Can I travel to South America without speaking Spanish? While knowing Spanish can enhance your experience, you can get by in most tourist areas using basic phrases, English, or translation apps.
- What’s the best time to visit South America on a budget? Traveling during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-November) helps you avoid crowds and peak-season prices while still enjoying favorable weather.
Final Thoughts
The question that’s on your mind now is, “Why haven’t I gone to Latin America sooner?”. Usually, your answer is flight cost. But, don’t let flight costs discourage you. Book cheap rates according to the off-season months.
Remember that a budget trip to South America is the best form of self-care. Sure, a massage or a manicure can do wonders, but nothing invigorates you more than a budget trip to Latin America.
Memories are made with people, and you’ll find many on your adventure. Whether you prefer to walk around cities, relax on a beach, or follow a hiking trail, you will find it all in South America.
The explorer in you will pick one of these South America trip ideas, but it’ll take the organizer in you to plan it. Enjoy your trip, make connections, and eat good food! I hope you enjoyed these top 10 places in South America to visit on a budget, and I wish you a wonderful trip!
By Erjona Peci
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