Aspiring digital nomad or just looking for your next budget-friendly vacation and wondering, “Is South America cheap enough for me to travel to?” The answer is “Yes!” In this article, I’ll review the cheapest countries in South America to travel to. Whether you’re a new traveler, a seasoned one or are looking for a new base as a digital nomad, this guide is chock full of different places for every type of adventurer. As a seasoned traveler, I have also included tons of handy tips that have helped me reduce stress, increase my confidence and save thousands of dollars on multiple trips over the past five years.
Read on to learn about the cheapest countries in South America.
Why Travel Cheap?
Since I’m talking about budget travel to South America, I need to explain the multiple reasons why you should travel cheap. Let’s get ino it.
1. Get Creative with Cheaper Travel Alternatives
When you’re on a limited budget, you’ll appreciate taking advantage of simpler ways to enjoy the world. Instead of automatically booking a rental car, you can appreciate the train ride to the city center. You’ll be able to slow down and look out your window, enjoying the sites as you get closer to your destination.
In addition to appreciating different modes of transportation, budget travel means you’ll have the opportunity to find cheap or free alternatives that are just as high quality as pricier shows. When I was traveling in Seville, Spain, I found flamenco shows for free. They’re all over that place! Additionally, many cities around the world offer free festivals such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. These festivals are paid for by government funding and corporate sponsors. These are just two examples of how you can find entertainment for $0!
2. Appreciate Slow Travel
In addition to traveling on a budget allowing you to get creative, you’ll be able to experience slow travel. Millions of people spend only two or three days in a city, rushing around to see the main sites before rushing on to their next destination. While there’s nothing wrong with seeing the highlights of Berlin, Paris or Rome, what if you had more time to appreciate each city’s hidden gems.
Slow travel means you can stay in a place for a few days longer. Doing so means you’ll spend less time transferring at bus stations, airports and in taxis, slowing down costs. Remember: small costs do add up over time! Overpriced airport fees and taxi transfers can quickly drain your travel savings account.
I’m currently living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and using it as a base to travel the country and region – the ultimate form of slow travel. During my time here, I’ve been able to experience the city in a way no tourist would ever be able to in two days, three days or even a week. I’ve been able to check out museums, quirky rooftops, hidden cafes and tons more local hangouts than if I were a tourist. Even if you aren’t living as a digital nomad or employee in the host country, if you travel on a budget, you can consider staying in one place longer.
3. Feel Good About Saving
There’s no question that traveling on a budget requires more time to plan and execute your trip logistics. However, it’s incredibly rewarding! After you come home from a fun, relaxing and adventurous time away and see that your bank balance is where you want it to be, you’ll feel a great sense of satisfaction. While you shouldn’t feel like you need to watch every single dollar while you travel and skimp out (as in, be cheap instead of frugal), saving money means freeing up cash to pay off debt or invest for your future.
Important Tips Before Traveling to the Cheapest Countries in South America
1. Sorting Your Visa Situation
It’s important to know what visas you need – if any – before you head off on your big adventure. Many countries such as Uruguay do not require a visa for US citizens for up to 90 days of travel. While the visa requirements are quite relaxed, it’s crucial to know before you go. The last thing you want is to be turned away at the airport.
2. Know the Best Time to Exchange Your Currency
Before you head to the airport, check to see if you can exchange your currency at a local bank. Check the conversion fees and if the bank even offers the currency you need. Generally, it’s a little bit cheaper to exchange at the bank or a money exchange bureau outside of the airport. If you need to exchange in the country – for example, in Cuba (as pesos aren’t recognized outside the country), try exchanging outside the airport. Airports generally charge the highest fees as they know you are willing to pay for convenience!
3. Understand the Currency’s Value
Another key aspect to traveling South America or any region for tha matter: know the value of the currency. When you travel, it’s easy to forget the value of your dollar. In places such as Argentina, where 1 Argentinian peso equals around 0.0012 US dollar, you’ll generally find items for a steal. However, you’ll need to know the value of your currency to avoid scams. Download a currency conversion app such as Xe so you can convert your dollars to pesos or whichever other currency you need. I’ve personally a huge fan of this app. It’s saved me loads of time having to manually convert currency online while traveling to over 15 different countries. Try it out!
4. Be Wary of Prices That are Too Low
Remember: you get what you pay for! While careful research means you’ll often be able to find some sweet deals – especially in the off or shoulder seasons – be way of prices that are too low. Check reviews for tours, hotels and airlines on multiple sites. Don’t be afraid to pay a little bit more for quality.
How long are you willing to go? In my early to mid-twenties, I generally chose to stay in the cheapest hostels in a room with up to 12 people. In the end, my sleep and mental health suffered. Now that I’m several years older, I’m still budget-conscious but am willing to pay for a private room. Personally, when I get a good night’s sleep, I enjoy the next day a lot more. Let’s face it – when you spend thousands of dollars to travel to Argentine or Chile, what’s another couple hundred extra dollars to sleep in peace and quiet?!
Ultimate List of the Cheapest Countries in South America
Cheapest Countries in South America for Those New to the Region
Argentina
Keen on checking out some beautiful scenery and love wine? Be sure to check out Argentina. There’s so much to see and do in this stunning country. Start by visiting Buenos Aires. This city is nicknamed “The Paris of South America” as it has both culture and modern attractions. If you’re an art and history buff, be sure to check out the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, the Museo Evita and the National History Museum.
Aside from Buenos Aires, be sure to visit Salta, a gorgeous town chock full of colonial architecture. This town also has the third largest salt flats in the world. Make your way over to Mendoza as well for wine and steak. Be smart with your time by booking a guided tour to visit various wineries. Another great place to visit is Iguazu Falls.
You also can’t leave Argentina without trying out the tango. Why not do some lessons with a professional while you’re there? Life is too short to pass by on trying new things!
If you’re on a budget, you’re in luck. Hostel beds will run you anywhere from $8-30 USD per night depending on where you are traveling to. Generally, prices will be higher in Mendoza. Food will cost you $5-10 per meal. Don’t leave Argentine without trying asado and yerba mate!
Brazil
If you’re dying to visit the jungle, visit Brazil. 60% of the rainforests lie within Brazil’s territory and this country has the most plant and animal species in the world. This country is also the largest in South America and has tons to offer travelers. Big city lovers will enjoy exploring Rio de Janiero. While you’re there, check out the Christ the Redeemer statue, Tijuca National Park and Sugarloaf mountain. If you’re tired from the heat, head inside to one of the many museums in this city.
Beach lovers will enjoy basking in the sun at Copacabana Beach. Feeling adventurous? Learn the samba dance. Be sure to check out a soccer match as well. There’s something in this country for everyone.
Outside of Rio, visit Iguazú Falls. This place is best enjoyed via a boat tour. You won’t be disappointed! Other must-see destinations include Brasilia (the capital of Brazil), São Paulo and Tijuca National Park.
Hostel beds in Brazil typically cost between $10-15 USD a night. In more remote places, they may cost up to $30 per night. Hotels will cost around $45-60 USD a night. If you’re open to camping, booking a spot runs around $9-15 USD per night.
Enjoy delicious cuisine in Brazil such as vatapá (a bread stew), pão de queijo (cheese rolls) and moqueca (fish stew). Dishes can range anywhere from $4-8 USD a meal.
Chile
Chile is a long country full of beautiful scenery. This country has gorgeous snow-topped mountains, Easter Islands and other stuff you shouldn’t miss. You’ll be glad to know that not only is it beautiful, but it’s one of the cheapest countries in South America!
When visiting Chile, start in Santiago. This bustling city has delicious dining options, fine wine and tons of nightlife options. Check out the Cerro San Cristóbal, a great place to take photos. If you need some respite from the big city, enjoy the Parque Meropolitano.
When traveling Chile, do not miss Easter Island, located 2,200 miles off the cost of the country. This island is well-known for its Moai face sculptures you can find around the island. Easter Island also has tons of volcanoes, beaches and gorgeous hiking trails.
Other key places to explore include Torres del Paine National Park, San Pedro de Atacama and San Marcos Cathedral. Don’t miss hiking the Ojos del Salado and doing a wine tour at a vineyard near Santiago.
Dorms in Chile will run you around 9,800 CLP per night. Want privacy? Private rooms cost 22-30,000 CLP. Those keen on camping will be happy to know that there are campsite options all around the country.
Regarding food, don’t miss the variety of seafood such as prawns, lobsters, salmon, cod and shrimp. Try chupe (seafood stew) and churrasco (steak sandwich) while exploring Chile as well.
Meals in Chile will run you around 7,000 CLP for a basic lunch dish and drink.
Colombia
Colombia is an excellent budget travel destination for both leisure travelers and digital nomads. A place that was once known as ridden with cartels, drugs and crime, it is fast becoming an increasingly popular place to relax and explore.
Colombia is one of the cheapest countries in South America where you can explore gorgeous architecture, beautiful jungles, sandy beaches and modern, fast-paced cities such as Bogotá and MedellÃn.
Start your travels off by exploring Bogota. La Candaleria is full of beautiful architecture. Other key cities to visit include Medellin, Cartagena and Cali.
Nature lovers will be in paradise. Explore Isla Gorgona, a national park southwest of Cali. Tayrona National Park is another ideal nature destination. This park is full of beautiful rainforests and beaches such as Cabo San Juan. Enjoy the Providiencia and San Andres islands where you’ll enjoy seeing black crabs between April and July, taking part in diving and relaxing on the white-sand beaches.
Hostel dorm beds in Colombia will run you 30,000-45000 COP a night. Private rooms will cost around the same, usually around 40,000 COP. Hotels will cost you slightly more, typically around 60,000 COP.
Colombia is a food lover’s paradise. Enjoy plantain, rice, potato and maize-based dishes. Indulge in various fruits such as guava and passionfruit. Meals cost between 10,000-15,000 COP in larger cities. Smaller cities typically offer food around 5,000-10,000 COP.
Keep costs down during your budget travels in Colombia by doing free walking tours. Don’t forget to tip your guide!
Ecuador
Ecuador contains the Galapagos Islands and so much more. If you love nature and adventure, be sure to visit this budget travel destination.
Start your journey by flying into the capital, Quito. Be sure to visit the Monasterio de San Francisco which has beautiful tilework artwork. Visit the small town of Baños which allows the opportunity to explore volcano paths and hot springs. Adventure lovers will enjoy bungee jumping, ATVing and visiting waterfalls. Cuenca is another ideal city to visit for architecture lovers like myself. This city has tons of churches and other buildings for your next Instagram photo.
Outside cities and towns, enjoy visiting one of five national parks located within the Amazon rainforest. You’ll be able to find nearly 1,000 animal species in the jungle.
Accomodation is budget-friendly in Ecuador as you’ll be able to find dorm beds in a hostel for around $5-7 USD per night. Private rooms will run you $10-40 USD per night and budget hotels are around $25-30 USD per night.
Take advantage of the delicious cuisine of Ecuador including arroz con pollo (chicken with rice), empanadas, ceviche, casava and ilapinchagos (fried potato cakes stuffed with cheese) which will run you $3-6 USD a meal.
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Peru
Home to the famous Machu Picchu which I’m sure you’re dying to visit, Peru is one of the cheapest countries in South America. There’s so much more to explore outside of this country on a budget!
Firstly, a trip to Peru isn’t complete without visiting Machu Picchu! You can opt for either a day trip via train, a 4 day and 3 night hike or a 7-8 hike if you’re up for a more challenging adventure.
While in Peru, be sure to visit Lima. Visit the Aliaga House and Larco Museum to see ancient artifacts and enjoy the Plaza Mayor. If you enjoy exploring markets just as much as I do, you’ll be glad to know that Lima has many to explore. Enjoy a drink of local brandy (pisco) in the Barranco district at night.
Aside from Lima, enjoy the colonial city of Cusco somewhat near Machu Picchu. If you have more time, take a day trip to the rainbow Mountains, Sacsayhuaman and Coricancha.
Other key Peru travel destinations include hiking the Inca trail (which you can do to get to Machu Picchu), surf at Máncora Beach, visiting Chachapoyas in the Andean mountains and hiking the Salkantay.
Extra Budgeting Tips When Planning a Trip to the Cheapest Countries in South America
1. Compare Hotels and Flights Using an App
Always use an app such as Skyscanner to compare flights and Trivago to compare hotel prices. When you see a deal, snap it up!
2. Stock a Travelling Capsule Wardrobe
If you’re serious about saving on travel costs long-term, consider revamping and restocking your wardrobe with a minimalist capsule one for travel! A capsule wardrobe is a collection of high-quality pieces that match and go with a variety of different outfits. Furthermore, a travelling capsule wardrobe contains pieces that are:
- Easy to pack
- Suitable for different climates
- Heat and stain-resistent
- Can be swapped in or out of a suitcase depending on the season of the travel destination
A capsule wardrobe is especially ideal for those on a backpacker budget as backpackers have a smaller amount of space when packing. However, traveling capsule wardrobes will benefit anyone looking to be frugal and save money in the long run.
3. Stay in Accommodation with Cooking Facilities
Staying in hostels or AirBnbs with a stove, fridge and microwave can help you cut your food and dining expenses down quite a bit. Buy some groceries and cook two out of your three meals. Personally, I make my own breakfasts and dinners at the accommodation that I’m staying at. Many restaurants offer lunch specials that are a lot cheaper than dinners, but just as filling. In addition to cooking meals at your accommodation, be sure to stock up on healthy snacks. When you pack protein-rich snacks in your day bag, you’ll be a lot less tempted to buy treats while out. By all means, indulge in the local empanadas. However, stocking up on and consuming granola bars, trail mix and other healthy, filling snacks will keep your travels on budget.
4. Choose Hostels over Hotels – Make Traveling to the Cheapest Countries in South America Even Cheaper
Hostels are a budget-friendly accommodation option and the best if you’re serious about saving. Save the most money on accommodation by choosing a bed in a shared hostel room. If you can’t bear the thought of sharing your space, opt for a private room. Hostels are still quite a bit cheaper than hotel rooms, even if you book a private room. This is because often, the accommodation is simpler, you may receive housekeeping less often, and bathrooms may be communal in a room down the hallway instead of your room.
5. Undertake Short Term or Long Term Housesitting
If you really want your own place while traveling but don’t want to shell out more money for private room, consider short-term or long-term house sitting. Sign up on Trusted Housesitters to get started. If you’re new to housesitting, watch some friends’ homes and get them to write positive reviews for you.
A Final Word on the Cheapest Countries in South America
There are tons of great places on this list of the cheapest countries in South America. Try out a visit to one, two or many countries. Pick a place that interests you. Find balance between budgeting and enjoying the different travel activities. Have a great adventure!
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Janita is a frugal living expert and owner of Frugal Fun Finance. With over five years of personal experience finding and trying out the best ways to make and save more money, she's eager to share her knowledge. Janita's strategies have helped her save thousands of dollars for funding investments and traveling to over 20 countries.
Janita completed training in personal finance at The University of Western Ontario and McGill University, two prestigious Canadian universities. Her expertise has been shared on GoBankingRates, Yahoo Finance, and NASDAQ.com.
