3.5 years in South America travel budget: how I managed to stick to a $10 USD per day budget

This South America travel budget is for backpackers and long-term travelers who have a budget of $10 โ€“ $25 USD per day. I did this trip for 3.5 years so expect that I stayed longer in these places. If you are going on a short trip or planned vacation, you can check my individual travel budget planning for each country in South America.

Hi Trish, thank you for your helpful posts about South America. I am planning to go there this year and I was wondering what was your South America travel budget? I know you did it slowly and you did volunteering but can you give me an idea about costs? How much money should I prepare? Thank you so much for the helpful blog!

Charles Dahlke, United States

Hola Charles!

Thank you for reaching out! I know itโ€™s really hard to assess your South American travel budget especially when you are still planning your trip but I will give you the most realistic South America travel budget to make your trip planning successful.

I saved over $4,000 USD for one year of travel in South America? I didnโ€™t pay for any accommodations because of family stays, Couchsurfing, and volunteering.

You donโ€™t have to include all South American countries to your trip. I did this trip for 3.5 years and did not visit all of them as I spent at least 3-6 months per country. It depended on my mood and visa restrictions.

Anyway, hereโ€™s my take on South America travel budget and you will definitely discover how I did $10 USD per day per country in this post! Good luck and I hope you push through!

Xx,
Trisha

๐Ÿ™‹ Questions South America travel budget? Ask me on Tiktok!

south america travel budget
Pin this to Pinterest and save it for your South America travel budget planning!

๐Ÿ”— South America travel budget: quick links

๐Ÿ’ต $10 USD per day South America travel budget

Once upon a time, I was broke and did not have a solid plan in life. And I shit you not; I did spend $10 USD per day. But that was from 2012 โ€“ 2015, so times have changed. Travel is NOW super expensive, and I am happy to have done backpacking for most of my younger years.

Now, what can you get for $10 USD per day as a South America travel budget? Not a lot, really. But it does not mean itโ€™s not possible. The $10 USD per day allotment is mostly for backpackers who are on the road for an indefinite amount of time.

peru travel
Originally wanted to stay in Paracas for two weeks but I ended up living here and meeting great people!

I did this and I spent 7 years living in hostels not just in South America but also in Asia and Europe. One of the things that helped me survive those $10 USD days is volunteering. The bulk of your traveling expenses is on accommodation so when you volunteer, you can get a FREE accommodation.

There are many volunteering opportunities in South America where you work 5 hours a day for 5 days a week in exchange for accommodations and one free meal. These volunteering opportunities (or work exchange) are usually in the fields of hospitality, eco lodging, farming, au pairing, and many more.

host family in Brazil
My host family in Pouso Alegre, Brazil.

You can check out Worldpackers for volunteering opportunities in Thailand. Use my code PSIMONMYWAY10 to get a 10% discount on the first year of your membership.

I also did local stay with host families and you will see how to find host families abroad in this post together with my local experiences.

There you go, FREE accommodations and one free meal. You still have a $10 USD budget to spend! Now how are you going to spend that $10 USD per day wisely?

  • 2 meals outside of your FREE meal: $3 USD per meal for street food in South America. It will cost the same if you prefer to go grocery shopping for your meal of the day.
  • Beer: $2.50 USD
  • Tours and activities: If you are volunteering in hostels and they do tours, volunteers get FREE tours automatically, but this does not apply to all hostels. You can deal with this with your volunteering manager, and they would always say yes. Again, if you donโ€™t ask, you donโ€™t get.

๐Ÿ’ฒ Which South American country is the cheapest to travel?

The cheapest destination in South America is Bolivia and the most expensive is Uruguay. Below is the ranking of the cheapest South American destinations (from lowest to highest).

DestinationSuggested Daily Budget
Bolivia (cheapest)$20 โ€“ $30 USD per day
Paraguay $25 โ€“ $25 USD per day
Ecuador$30 โ€“ $40 per day
Colombia$35 โ€“ $45 per day
Peru$35 โ€“ $50 per day
Guyana$40 โ€“ $55 USD per day
Suriname$40 โ€“ $55 USD per day
Venezuela**$40-$60 USD per day
Brazil$40-$60 USD per day
Argentina**$45-$65 USD per day
Chile$50-$70 USD per day
Uruguay (most expensive)$50-$75 USD per day
From here forth, expect that all prices in this post are in USD.
bolivia brazil border crossing

**Notes:

  • Due to the current political and economic situation in Venezuela, costs may vary significantly, and travel may not be recommended
  • An exact cost is hard to gauge for Argentina because of the different USD conversions. Read my blue dollar guide for Argentina for more info.

๐ŸŒŽ South America travel budget per country

Colombia travel budget

โœˆ๏ธ Major International Airports: Bogota | Medellin | Cartagena

I stayed in Colombia for 3 months and maintained my $10 USD budget per day. I heavily focused my financial efforts on transportation costs because I want to be more comfortable when taking long-haul busses.

I only flew once in Colombia (from Barranquilla to Medellin) and for the rest of the trip, I traveled the whole Colombia by bus! Now how was I able to maintain this $10 USD budget?

First, I stayed with a local Colombian family and they actually took me in for weeks! One of the reasons why I stayed with them is because I wanted to learn Spanish.

south america travel budget
My extended family in Barranquilla, Colombia. I met all their family members!

Colombian Spanish is the clearest Spanish in all of South America, so if you are planning to polish your Spanish, this is the only country that is best at doing it. Now that I am fluent in Spanish, I really understand how unclear and informal other Spanish languages are.

Next, I also volunteered in hostels in Colombia which allowed me to get free accommodations for 2 weeks. I understand if hostel volunteering or local family stay is not your jam so Iโ€™ll discuss thee current prices for traveling in Colombia as well.

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels, starting at around $10 per night, to budget hotels that can be found for $20-$30 per night. Street food and local eateries offer delicious meals for as low as $3-$5, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost around $10-$15.

south america travel budget

Transportation is also quite affordable, with local bus fares starting at $0.50 and intercity bus fares ranging between $10-$20, depending on the distance. Entrance fees to popular tourist sites are generally inexpensive, often ranging from $2-$10.

While Colombia is undoubtedly an affordable travel destination in South America, it may not be the absolute cheapest option. Countries like Bolivia and Ecuador are known for having lower costs of living and thus can provide even cheaper travel experiences.

However, Colombiaโ€™s affordability, diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture, make it an excellent value for travelers seeking to explore South America on a budget.

Ecuador travel budget

I traveled from Colombia to Ecuador by land which took me at least 3 days. In Ecuador, I stayed longer in Quito and volunteered in a hostel (again). It was a really nice and small hostel and Iโ€™ve made friendships here that lasted til now โ€“ we are all still in touch!

Ecuador is a diverse and fascinating country that allows you to explore its natural wonders, vibrant culture, and historical sites without straining your South America travel budget.

If you are not staying on a hostel or doing volunteering jobs, these are the basic travel costs in Ecuador:

south america travel budget

Basic travel prices in Ecuador are quite affordable, making it an appealing destination for backpackers and cost-conscious travelers. Budget accommodations, such as hostels, can be found for around $8-$15 per night, while budget hotels range between $20-$30 per night.

Street food and local eateries provide delicious meals for as low as $2-$4, and a meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around $8-$15.

Transportation is also budget-friendly, with local bus fares starting at $0.25 and intercity bus fares ranging between $5-$15 depending on the distance. Entrance fees for popular tourist attractions are generally inexpensive, often falling between $2-$10.

south america travel budget
I also did some English-teaching once a week. Back then, I was on level 1 of my ESL certification course.

While Ecuador is undoubtedly an affordable travel destination in South America, it may not be the cheapest option. Countries like Bolivia and Paraguay are known for having even lower living costs, and thus can provide cheaper travel experiences.

However, Ecuadorโ€™s affordability and stunning natural attractions such as the Galรกpagos Islands, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Andean highlands make it an excellent value for travelers looking to explore South America on a budget.

Peru

Peruโ€ฆ oh wow, where do I start? I stayed here for a year! I did not expect to be here for a year but when I volunteered in a hostel in Paracas, they really loved my work ethic so they offered me a paid job to be the bar manager.

Along with that, they also sponsored my Peruvian work visa which made me explore Peru from North to South. This is a country that I know in and out so make sure to check out all my Peru travel blogs in this post. So many stories!

free accommodation
The best year of my life was in Paracas. I can write an entire book about this trip!

Peru is a captivating country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural wonders, making it a popular destination for budget travelers. Basic travel prices in Peru are generally affordable, allowing visitors to experience its ancient sites, vibrant cities, and diverse landscapes without breaking the bank.

Budget accommodations, such as hostels, can cost around $8-$15 per night, while budget hotels range between $20-$35 per night. Street food and local eateries offer delicious meals for as low as $2-$4, and a meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around $10-$20.

peru travel

Transportation is also budget-friendly, with local bus fares starting at $0.50 and intercity bus fares ranging between $10-$30 depending on the distance.

Entrance fees for popular tourist attractions are generally inexpensive, although some major sites like Machu Picchu may require more substantial costs, starting at around $50.

Bolivia

I crossed from Peru to Bolivia by bus and what was so great about this experience is that 5 of us who were working together in the hostel in Peru all went to Bolivia at the same time!

I stayed in Bolivia for 3 months and volunteered in a hostel again. This was the most fun hostel that Iโ€™ve been in although I really suffered working in a hostel here because there were no elevators in our hostel.

The altitude in Bolivia is a killer so I got exhausted easily. This was also the time when I said I really need to exercise because it really is hard to travel long-term if you are not physically fit.

volunteer travel tips
Oh no, this is not the awful volunteering job. In fact, this is one of the best! (La Paz, Bolivia, 2014)

Bolivia is a diverse and intriguing country, boasting stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a variety of unique experiences. Itโ€™s also one of the most affordable travel destinations in South America, making it an attractive option for budget travelers.

In Bolivia, you can find budget accommodations such as hostels for around $5-$10 per night, while budget hotels can range between $15-$25 per night. Local eateries and street food vendors offer delicious and filling meals for as low as $1-$3, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around $5-$10.

cusco solo travel
We worked together in Paracas, went to Cusco, and then went to Bolivia together! / Cusco 2014

Transportation is also very budget-friendly, with local city bus fares starting at $0.25 and intercity bus fares ranging between $3-$20 depending on the distance. Entrance fees for popular tourist attractions are generally inexpensive, often falling between $2-$10, although some major sites like the Salar de Uyuni tours may require a higher investment.

Bolivia is often considered one of the cheapest South America travel budget destinations, along with Paraguay. Its low cost of living and affordable prices for accommodations, food, and transportation make it an appealing option for backpackers.

Boliviaโ€™s breathtaking attractions, such as the Salar de Uyuni, the Amazon Rainforest, and the city of La Paz, offer incredible value for travelers looking to explore South America on a budget.

Brazil travel budget

I did Bolivia to Brazil by bus and it took me 5 days since I had a few stops. This was also the most exhausting border crossing because I did this during the World Cup in 2014. Everyone were going to Brazil!

Brazil is a different story because I stayed with local friends here and leaned heavily on Couchsurfing. I did not do a lot of volunteering jobs. I also saved a lot of money from Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia by volunteering so I figured, letโ€™s splurge and relax in Brazil!

rio de janeiro digital nomad
Celebrating Christmas 2021 with my carioca family!

And for once, not be cheap. Then the bad thing happened. I got robbed in Rio de Janeiro during the World Cup. Anyway, read that story but do not be discouraged about including Brazil in your travel plans.

Brazil and I have a love-hate relationship and guess what? After those 6 months I spent in Brazil, I came to Brazil every year, especially during Christmas and carnaval!

Brazil is a vast and diverse country with a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, from the Amazon Rainforest to the bustling cities of Rio de Janeiro and Sรฃo Paulo. While not the cheapest destination in South America, it is still possible to travel on a budget.

brazil
Brazil circa 2013.

Budget accommodations such as hostels can be found for around $10-$20 per night, and budget hotels may range between $30-$50 per night. Local eateries and street food vendors offer tasty and affordable meals, with prices starting at $3-$5, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around $10-$20.

Transportation is reasonably priced, with local city bus and subway fares starting at about $1, and intercity bus fares ranging between $15-$60 depending on the distance. Entrance fees for popular tourist attractions vary, but many sights like beaches and public parks can be enjoyed for free or at a low cost.

things to do in rio de janeiro

Brazil is NOT the cheapest travel destination in South America, as countries like Bolivia and Paraguay are known for having lower costs of living and more affordable travel experiences. However, Brazil offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences, making it an appealing destination for backpackers with different budgets.

Uruguay travel budget

From Brazil, I crossed the border to Uruguay. Uruguay was again a super special destination because it is not popularly visited and it is the most expensive destination in South America.

What made this experience extra special is that I lived with an Uruguayan family, not in Montevideo but in San Jose. This was an extra special experience because I never really thought Iโ€™d found a host family there.

Unlike the other South America destinations where I stayed for months, I only stayed 1 month in Uruguay. Apart from being expensive, there arenโ€™t really a lot of things to do there but I made meaningful relationships and friendships which made me understand the Uruguayan culture better.

free accommodation
My host family in Uruguay.

Uruguay is a charming and relatively small country in South America, known for its picturesque coastline, rolling countryside, and vibrant cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este. While Uruguay is not the most budget-friendly destination in the region, it is still possible to travel there without overspending.

Budget accommodations, such as hostels, can be found for around $15-$25 per night, while budget hotels range between $30-$60 per night. Dining at local eateries and street food vendors can be affordable, with prices starting at $4-$6 for a meal, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around $15-$30.

host families abroad
My host family in Uruguay introduced me to their extended families!

Transportation is also reasonably priced, with local city bus fares starting at about $1, and intercity bus fares ranging between $5-$30 depending on the distance. Entrance fees for popular tourist attractions are generally reasonable, and many sights like beaches and public parks can be enjoyed for free.

Uruguay is not the cheapest travel destination in South America, as countries like Bolivia and Paraguay offer lower costs of living and more affordable travel experiences.

However, Uruguayโ€™s small size, friendly atmosphere, and diverse attractions make it an appealing destination for travelers who are willing to spend a bit more.

Argentina travel budget

In Argentina, I did not volunteer. I stayed with a local family as an English teacher. At the time, I already completed my ESL certificate and this was one of the countries where I taught English.

After that, I got offered a job at the British School and I stayed for a year. I ended up living in Buenos Aires which I consider one of the best cities in the world.

Argentina is a vast and diverse country, offering a wide range of attractions, from the bustling city of Buenos Aires to the breathtaking natural wonders of Patagonia and Iguazu Falls. While not the cheapest destination in South America, budget travel in Argentina is still achievable.

argentina volunteering
Volunteering in a vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina.

Budget accommodations, such as hostels, can be found for around $10-$20 per night, while budget hotels range between $25-$50 per night. Dining at local eateries and street food vendors can be affordable, with prices starting at $3-$5 for a meal, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around $10-$25.

Transportation is also reasonably priced, with local city bus and subway fares starting at about $0.50, and intercity bus fares ranging between $15-$50 depending on the distance. Entrance fees for popular tourist attractions vary, but many sights like parks, plazas, and some museums can be enjoyed for free or at a low cost.

mendoza wine tours

Whether Argentina is cheap or not, it is debatable because they have crazy inflation rates that has been going on for years. Now, this is even worse. When I was back there in 2014, it was already a crazy inflation rate so I had to learn my way around Argentinaโ€™s blue dollar.

I have lots of tips on how to manage money in Argentina so read my Argentina travel budget for that!

๐ŸšŒ Cost of transportation in South America

There are several ways to get around South America from country to country. The prices provided are approximate and can vary depending on the route, season, and service provider. Hereโ€™s a list of common transportation options along with their descriptions and approximate prices:

Air Travel

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between South American countries. Many airlines offer flights within the continent, including LATAM, Avianca, Gol, and Copa Airlines.

Prices can vary significantly depending on the route, time of booking, and airline, with one-way regional flights typically ranging from $100 to $500. Budget You can find better deals by booking in advance and being flexible with their travel dates.

Buses

Long-distance buses are a popular and affordable way to travel between South American countries. Bus services are generally comfortable, reliable, and safe, with options ranging from standard buses to luxury sleeper buses with reclining seats, air conditioning, and onboard entertainment.

Prices for international bus routes can range from $20 to $100 or more, depending on the distance, amenities, and bus company. Major bus companies include Cruz del Sur, Ormeรฑo, and Expreso Internacional Ormeรฑo.

Trains

Train travel in South America is limited compared to other continents, and there are only a few international train routes available.

One notable route is the Tren Crucero in Ecuador, which offers a luxury experience through the Andean highlands, with prices starting around $1,200 for a four-day journey. In general, train travel is more focused on scenic and tourist routes rather than inter-country connections.

Boats and Ferries

Traveling by boat or ferry can be an adventurous and scenic way to explore South America. Riverboats are a common mode of transportation in the Amazon Basin, connecting countries like Brazil, Peru, and Colombia.

Prices for multi-day riverboat journeys can range from $50 to $200, depending on the distance and boat class. Ferries also operate between Chile and Argentina through the Patagonia region, with one-way fares starting around $50.

Private Car or Rental Car

For those who prefer more flexibility and independence, renting a car or hiring a private driver can be an option for traveling between some South American countries.

reasons to visit brazil

However, it can be more expensive and logistically challenging due to border crossings, varying road conditions, and rental restrictions. Car rental prices can start at around $30 per day, while hiring a private driver could cost $100 or more per day, depending on the route and negotiation.

Hitchhiking

Although not recommended for everyone, some adventurous travelers choose to hitchhike as a way to get around South America. This mode of travel is free but comes with its own risks and challenges, such as personal safety, language barriers, and unpredictable wait times.

Keep in mind that transportation costs can vary greatly depending on factors such as season, route, and booking time. Itโ€™s essential to do thorough research and consider your travel priorities, preferences, and comfort levels when choosing the best transportation option for your South American adventure.

โ‰๏ธ FAQ: South America trip cost

How much should I budget for a trip to South America?

A trip to South America will vary in cost depending on the length of your stay and the destinations you plan to visit. The costs can range anywhere from $1,000 โ€“ $5,000 for a 10-day trip.

peru adventure tours

Factors such as flights, accommodation, activities, and food will determine how much money you need to budget for this trip. Again, I backpacked South America for 3.5 years on a $10 USD per day so this is a case-to-case basis.

It all depends on the type of traveler that you are and what kind of trip you want to do including countries you want to visit in South America.

How much money do you need for 2 months in South America?

I did 3.5 years in South America on a $10 USD per day budget so this is really up to you and your travel style. I did not pay for accommodations and had free food for volunteering so your circumstance may be different.

peru travel

I also stayed with local families and taught English during my 3-year long backpacking trip. But for a two-month trip to South America, you should budget around $2,000 โ€“ $10,000 depending on your desired destinations and activities.

Itโ€™s important to research each destination before making any plans, and create a detailed budget in order to get an accurate estimate. Additionally, consider the cost of flights and any other expenses such as accommodation or food that may be necessary for your journey.

What time of year is cheapest to travel to South America?

Generally, the cheapest time to travel to South America is during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October. During these periods, temperatures are mild and there is less tourist traffic than in peak season.

Colombia Destinations
For each time I visit the Colombian coast, I always make sure to camp and hike Tayrona National Park for 2 nights! Warning: no phone signal here.

Prices for accommodation and flights tend to be lower at this time. However, prices can vary depending on your destination and cities may experience more rainfall during certain times of the year.

However, please remember that South America is a big region and each country has their own high and low season (including different weathers). You really canโ€™t generalize this as it differs from country to country. Research the countries individually.

Is 3 months enough to travel South America?

It all depends on your travel style and the destinations you plan to visit in South America. Generally speaking, three months is enough time to explore many of the continentโ€™s main attractions, such as Machu Picchu in Peru or Iguazu Falls in Brazil.

things to do in rio de janeiro

If you want to experience more off-the-beaten-path locations, then it might be best to double this period of time. Consider researching routes and developing an itinerary before booking any trips.

Which country is best to visit for first time in South America?

Thatโ€™s a tough question and it could depend on your personal tastes and interests. Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and Argentina are the most visited countries in South America due to the many attractions available for tourists.

peru travel

If youโ€™re looking for colonial cities steeped in history, then visit Peru or Ecuador, where ancient Inca sites await discovery. For beaches, jungle adventures and a vibrant culture, Brazil is hard to beat. Finally, if you want breathtaking mountain views and pristine national parks, Argentina and Colombia are ideal destinations.

Which country in South America is safest to visit?

Itโ€™s difficult to say which country is โ€˜safestโ€™, as there are risks in any destination. That said, some countries in South America do have lower crime rates than others. Uruguay and Chile are considered two of the safest countries in the region, however, itโ€™s still important to practice safety precautions and pay attention to your surroundings.

rio de janeiro digital nomad

As for me, I did not feel harmed during my 3.5 years backpacking trip in South America. Safety is personal and subjective and to be honest, this safety thing is an American question. South America is 100% safer than the United States, I tell you that.

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47 Comments

  1. This is so much helpful a post Trisha! Never knew dining in Argentina is so costly compared with the rest of South American countries. Thank you for this post. Keep up the good work!

    1. Thanks for dropping by, Tania! It’s only expensive because of the dollar conversion. But once you get a hold of the blue dollar exchange rate and how it works, I am sure you will find Argentina cheap!

  2. This tables are very useful and maybe should save and print them ๐Ÿ™‚
    thank you. I’m happy to see that from Madrid airfares are not that much, so if I search from Milan and Rome I hope I can find something similar ๐Ÿ™‚

    1. Hey Sabina! Sure, go ahead, print it if it will help you travel South America better! Madrid and London are the flying hubs to South America so you will really find a lot of cheap airfares from there! I don’t think Milan or Rome has any direct/cheap flight to SA but let me know if you’re able to find one!

  3. Love a good budget round up! I always knew Argentina was more expensive than the other South American countries, but I didn’t realize by how much! It is significantly more expensive to eat and drink in Argentina than anywhere else–wow!

  4. This is a great resource. I really like how you break it down. I’m heading to Southeast Asia this year but was thinking South America for my next trip. Now it might not stop me from going but had no idea how much more expensive Argentina is. Thanks for sharing.

  5. Trisha, this is a great post! I love that you included market prices, that helps tremendously to get an idea of what it really costs to live there. We are right now in a place in Costa Rica where there is only one supermarket (quite a fancy one). It’s insane what they charge! It’s way cheaper in Austria…oh well ๐Ÿ˜‰ Looking forward to visit South America one day!

  6. Such great information! I love how you organized everything into charts. Not surprising that Argentina is the priciest given the turmoil it’s faced with its currency. I was surprised that Colombia was the cheapest, as I would have guessed Bolivia. I can also add to the flight information, for anyone looking to travel with award miles, Santiago typically has great availability as compared to other popular cities in Argentina and Brazil.

  7. You know you get those spammy comments saying “I’m so glad I found this and I will be bookmarking to save for later”…I’m genuine… We are planning a big trip to Latin America later this year and starting to research now – up to date info like this is gold dust ๐Ÿ™‚

    But OMFG re Argentina – what the heck happened? I went over 10 years ago and it was always Peru/Bolivia were the bargains, Chile the most expensive and Argentina also cheap cheap cause it was recovering from a recession. But now the country seems to be powering ahead!

    Great post!

  8. Very detailed and useful trisha. I guess Chile is also not a cheap place. When I visited I felt as if I was in Spain and everything looked, felt and tasted much similar. Also their accent is more standard and less telling of the country. As quite a developed place, prices are accordingly, Exchange rate maybe is making Argentina more expensive?

  9. Wow, this is great! We are big budget travelers so I can spend HOURS researching prices on things. S. America is on our list for the upcoming years, so I’ll have to use this when planning so I can save some time! Thank you!

  10. We found Buenos Aires to be the most expensive dining wise (other than Patagonia- which is expensive for everything really). Collectivos can be handy, especially if you know a bit of Spanish to give instructions. The long distance bus is cheap, but boy are the distances long! Flying can be very expensive internally in South America. If you fly on a LAN partner airline you can try a LAN Pass and Sky Airlines is budget airline that operates in some areas. It can be a cheap option to the bus for long distances. Buenos Aires can be a good airport option from Europe. There is a ferry between Uruguay and BA. And Urugauy is fantastic- very underrated!

  11. Great tips plus I loved the comparisons. My husband and I live part-time in Panama and we are itching to start exploring all of Central and South America. These are great guidelines to check out in order to start planning our trips. thanks!

  12. Great and informative list. I’m currently in South America and would agree that Argentina has been the most expensive country. As you mention, you can cut costs by shopping and eating at the market as well as taking local transportation. The must surprising observation is how cheap and delicious the food in Peru. Thanks for sharing!

  13. Wow, it looks like Argentina has gotten pretty pricey since I was there. I assumed accommodation would be cheaper for the other places. This is a good wake up call for anyone (like me) wanting to go to South America.

  14. I love the tables! They’re so easy to read and make it very clear to understand. I lived in Buenos Aires, Argentina for 6 weeks and I can tell you that it can be pretty pricey. But like you said, it depends where you eat and what kind of transportation you’re willing to take. I tried to eat at small local places and either walked or took the subway; taxis were too expensive!

  15. Thanks for the detailed information! Super helpful for budgeting. It’s so interesting to see the comparison between different types of expenses and the different countries. I’m amazed how affordable the transportation is across the board–much less expensive than what we are used to at home!

  16. This is such an amazing resource. Thanks for putting all of this in one place. This will certainly be helpful when I finally make it to South America. I need all the help I can get sticking to a budget!

  17. This article is perfect for me! I’m planning to do a big trip through South America next year with two friends. We definitely want to go to Chile, Peru and Bolivia. But I’m still trying to convince them to go to more countries! Thanks for sharing this info, Trisha!

  18. This is really useful to me, as I will be spending a year backpacking in the South and Central America for a year from this May. I have just bookmarked this page. Love the break down table. Though I am a lil surprised as beer is expensive in Bolivia among all the countries listed ๐Ÿ˜‰ . Thanks for sharing.

  19. Great breakdown. I wish I had the discipline to do that. Did you have any issues with the one way tickets and the airlines wanting you to have proof of departure from the destination country?

  20. thanks for all the info trisha. how do you save on atms though? i always pay quit a lot of fees for withdrawing money ๐Ÿ™ i start using ATM Fee saver app, this helps me staying in my tiny budget.

  21. what a great article, very useful! another tip โ€“ I also land up saving up on unnecessary expenses like atm fees etc โ€“ using apps like ATM Fee Saver โ€“ it helps find atms abroad in south american countries with no fees or lower fees than others along with withdrawal limits etc. worth adding to your list of tricks!

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