South America is a continent filled with natural wonders, vibrant cultures, and historic treasures—and the best part is, many of its top destinations are perfect for budget travelers. Whether you’re craving adventure, beach time, or cultural immersion, there’s a South American country ready to welcome you without draining your wallet.
Here are some of the best budget-friendly destinations in South America and why they should be on your list!
1. Bolivia 🇧🇴 – Extreme Landscapes at Low Costs
✔ Why it’s affordable: One of the cheapest countries in South America for food, lodging, and transport.
✔ Top attractions:
- Salar de Uyuni – The world’s largest salt flat.
- La Paz – High-altitude capital with cable car transport.
- Lake Titicaca – Sacred lake shared with Peru.
💡 Average daily budget: $25–$40
💡 Pro Tip: Use night buses between cities to save on both time and accommodation.
2. Colombia 🇨🇴 – Colorful Cities & Caribbean Beaches
✔ Why it’s affordable: Low-cost internal flights and great street food.
✔ Top attractions:
- Cartagena – A historic colonial city on the Caribbean coast.
- Medellín – The “City of Eternal Spring,” with a strong digital nomad scene.
- Salento – Coffee region and lush green valleys.
💡 Average daily budget: $30–$50
💡 Pro Tip: Eat at local restaurants (menu del día) for full meals under $5.
3. Peru 🇵🇪 – Culture, Mountains & Cuisine
✔ Why it’s affordable: Hostel beds from $8 and cheap public transport.
✔ Top attractions:
- Machu Picchu – Iconic Incan ruins.
- Cusco & Sacred Valley – Rich in history and local markets.
- Arequipa & Colca Canyon – Deep canyons and dramatic views.
💡 Average daily budget: $30–$55
💡 Pro Tip: Buy a Boleto Turístico pass in Cusco for discounted entry to multiple attractions.
4. Ecuador 🇪🇨 – Diverse Adventures in a Small Country
✔ Why it’s affordable: Use of USD simplifies budgeting; public buses are very cheap.
✔ Top attractions:
- Quito & Otavalo – Historic city and famous craft market.
- Baños – Adventure capital with waterfalls and thermal baths.
- Montañita – Popular beach town with great surfing.
💡 Average daily budget: $25–$45
💡 Pro Tip: Travel by local buses for under $1/hour and stay in guesthouses.
5. Argentina 🇦🇷 – Culture, Wine, and Wide Landscapes
✔ Why it’s affordable: The currency exchange rate makes it very budget-friendly for foreigners.
✔ Top attractions:
- Buenos Aires – A mix of European charm and Latin flair.
- Mendoza – Wine country with budget tastings and bike tours.
- Bariloche & Patagonia – Beautiful lakes and mountains.
💡 Average daily budget: $35–$60
💡 Pro Tip: Use cash—many places offer discounts for paying in pesos instead of credit cards.
6. Paraguay 🇵🇾 – South America’s Hidden Gem
✔ Why it’s affordable: One of the cheapest and least-visited countries on the continent.
✔ Top attractions:
- Asunción – The capital with colonial architecture.
- Encarnación – Known for its beach and Jesuit ruins.
- Ybycuí National Park – Nature, waterfalls, and hiking.
💡 Average daily budget: $20–$40
💡 Pro Tip: Great destination if you want authentic experiences without the crowds.
7. Chile 🇨🇱 – Natural Wonders for All Budgets
✔ Why it’s affordable: It can be pricey in cities, but budget travel is possible.
✔ Top attractions:
- Atacama Desert – Moon-like landscapes and starry skies.
- Valparaíso – Colorful port town with street art.
- Patagonia (budget version) – Camp and use hostels to explore Torres del Paine.
💡 Average daily budget: $40–$70
💡 Pro Tip: Camp or use Refugios in national parks to lower Patagonia travel costs.
8. Brazil 🇧🇷 – Beaches, Culture & Energy
✔ Why it’s affordable: Plenty of free activities and budget eats.
✔ Top attractions:
- Rio de Janeiro – Famous beaches, Christ the Redeemer, and Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Salvador – Afro-Brazilian culture and colonial charm.
- Iguaçu Falls – Epic waterfalls shared with Argentina.
💡 Average daily budget: $35–$60
💡 Pro Tip: Use pousadas (local inns) and enjoy beachfront meals from vendors.
Final Thoughts
South America is a paradise for travelers on a budget. With affordable transportation, lodging, food, and world-class attractions, you can experience culture, adventure, and nature without spending a fortune.
What’s your favorite destination on the continent? Tell us below! 🌎✈️💰