12 Budget-Friendly Travel Tips for Exploring South America

Exploring South America on a budget is easier than you think. With a little planning and smart choices, you can experience the continent’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities without breaking the bank. From using local transportation to finding affordable places to stay, there are plenty of ways to stretch your travel budget. Whether you’re visiting iconic landmarks or hidden gems, these tips will help you make the most of your adventure while keeping costs low.

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Prioritize Local Transportation

Using local transportation is one of the best ways to save money while traveling in South America. Buses, metros, and even local taxis are much cheaper than renting a car or booking tourist transportation. In many cities, the public transportation system is reliable and convenient, especially in larger cities like Buenos Aires or Rio de Janeiro. Traveling by bus between cities is a comfortable and affordable option that allows you to experience the local culture. Many buses offer overnight routes, so you can save on both transportation and accommodation.

By using local transport, you can also avoid the extra cost of tourist shuttles or taxis that often charge a premium. While it may take some time to get used to the schedules and routes, the savings can add up quickly, leaving more room in your budget for activities or local experiences.

Eat Local Food

One of the greatest joys of traveling through South America is sampling the incredible variety of local cuisine. Street food and small local restaurants, known as comedores, offer some of the best and most affordable meals you can find. These places often serve traditional dishes at a fraction of the cost of tourist-targeted restaurants. For example, in Peru, you can enjoy a delicious plate of ceviche for a few dollars, or try an empanada in Argentina for a quick and satisfying snack.

Eating local not only helps you save money but also provides a more authentic experience. You will get a taste of the culture in a way that goes beyond the typical tourist fare. Additionally, many of the ingredients used in local dishes are grown and sourced locally, making the meals even fresher and more flavorful.

Choose Affordable Accommodations

Accommodation can take up a large portion of a travel budget, but there are many affordable options in South America. Hostels and guesthouses are common throughout the continent, offering budget-friendly prices and a chance to meet fellow travelers. These options often include amenities like free Wi-Fi, kitchen access, and communal areas where you can relax and socialize. Some hostels even offer private rooms at a lower cost than a hotel, allowing you to enjoy some privacy without breaking the bank.

Staying in smaller, family-run guesthouses is another great way to save money and support local businesses. These accommodations are often more personal and provide insights into local life that larger hotels cannot offer. By avoiding expensive resorts or international hotel chains, you can stretch your budget while still enjoying comfort and convenience.

Travel Off-Season

Traveling during the off-season can significantly reduce your costs when visiting South America. While the peak tourist season runs from December to March, the months of April to October offer lower prices for flights, accommodation, and activities. The off-season also means fewer tourists, so you can enjoy attractions without the crowds and at a more relaxed pace.

By booking in advance or monitoring flight deals, you can secure great bargains and avoid inflated prices during the high season. This tip is especially useful for popular destinations like Machu Picchu or the Galápagos Islands, where prices can skyrocket during peak times.

Use Travel Apps and Websites for Deals

Before you embark on your journey, make sure to take advantage of travel apps and websites that can help you find the best deals. Websites like Skyscanner, Hostelworld, and Booking.com allow you to compare prices on flights, accommodation, and local experiences. Many of these platforms also offer last-minute deals, special discounts, or rewards for booking through their app. You can often find promotions that are exclusive to app users.

In addition to these booking apps, there are several local transportation apps in countries like Argentina and Colombia, which offer discounts or flexible options for getting around. These tools can save you a lot of time and money while helping you plan your trip.

Travel by Bus Between Cities

In South America, traveling by bus is an affordable and comfortable option for long-distance journeys. Many countries offer well-maintained, long-distance bus routes that connect cities across the region. Bus services in countries like Brazil, Chile, and Peru are known for their affordability, comfort, and reliability. Many buses are equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning, and even meals for overnight trips.

Compared to flights, buses are significantly cheaper and often provide a scenic journey, allowing you to experience the landscapes of the region. Bus travel also tends to be more flexible with fewer baggage restrictions, making it an ideal option for travelers with a lot of gear.

Join Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are a fantastic way to explore cities on a budget while learning about their history and culture. These tours are typically led by local guides who work on a tip-based system, meaning that you can choose to pay whatever you feel the tour was worth. Cities like Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, and Santiago offer walking tours that highlight the main attractions and hidden gems of the city.

Not only are these tours cost-effective, but they also provide an opportunity to ask questions and engage with locals who can share insider tips. They are a great way to get oriented in a new city and ensure you do not miss any must-see spots.

Stay in Smaller Towns

While cities in South America can offer exciting experiences, staying in smaller towns or villages can save you a significant amount of money. These areas often have lower accommodation and food costs, plus the added benefit of being less touristy. Places like Villa de Leyva in Colombia or Cafayate in Argentina offer charm, beautiful landscapes, and a more laid-back atmosphere.

Staying outside the main tourist areas also allows you to experience the authentic local culture in a way that larger cities cannot provide. You’ll find fewer crowds and often have a more personal experience with residents.

Shop at Local Markets

Shopping at local markets can be an exciting and budget-friendly way to experience the culture while finding unique souvenirs. Markets throughout South America sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, often at much lower prices than in tourist shops. Whether you are in the bustling markets of La Paz, Bolivia, or the artisan markets of Ecuador, you will find something special without spending much.

Additionally, purchasing food or snacks from local markets is a great way to save money on meals. You can enjoy fresh fruit, local cheeses, or traditional snacks at a fraction of the cost of eating out in restaurants.

Book Tickets in Advance for Popular Attractions

Some of the most famous attractions in South America, such as Machu Picchu or the Galápagos Islands, can be pricey. However, by booking tickets in advance, you can secure better prices and avoid the risk of sold-out tickets. Many sites offer discounts for early bookings, and by planning, you can avoid paying premium prices for last-minute tickets.

Booking in advance also helps you to plan your itinerary more efficiently, ensuring you have time to explore at your own pace without the stress of having to rush through popular spots.

Learn Basic Spanish or Portuguese

Learning a few key phrases in Spanish or Portuguese can go a long way when traveling in South America. While many people in tourist areas speak some English, knowing the basics can help you navigate local markets, order food, and ask for directions. Many budget accommodations and food vendors will offer lower prices to locals who can communicate in their language, so speaking even a little of the local language can help save you money.

There are many free resources available online or through apps like Duolingo, making it easy to pick up some language skills before your trip. Plus, it enriches your travel experience by helping you connect more deeply with the culture.

Avoid Expensive Tourist Activities

While it may be tempting to participate in expensive tourist activities like guided tours or exclusive excursions, many of these options are often overpriced. Instead, consider exploring destinations on your own, using free resources like maps or online guides to help you plan your self-guided tour. Activities like hiking, beach outings, or exploring local neighborhoods are often free and can provide just as much enjoyment as costly tours.

You can also ask locals for recommendations on budget-friendly things to do. This not only saves money but also gives you a more authentic experience by exploring less commercialized areas.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.