How Much Money to Travel Around South America
South America is a vast and diverse continent, with something to offer every traveler. From the towering Andes Mountains to the lush Amazon rainforest, from the bustling cities of Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires to the remote villages of the Andes, there is something for everyone in South America.
But how much money do you need to travel around South America? It depends on your travel style, but you can expect to spend around $50-$100 per day, depending on your budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the costs of travel in South America:
Accommodation
Hostels: Hostels are the most affordable option for accommodation in South America, with prices starting at around $10 per night for a bed in a dorm room. Private rooms in hostels typically cost around $20-$30 per night.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a good mid-range option, with prices starting at around $20-$30 per night for a private room.
Hotels: Hotels are the most expensive option for accommodation in South America, with prices starting at around $50 per night for a budget hotel.
Food
Street food: Street food is the most affordable way to eat in South America, with prices starting at around $1 for a simple snack.
Restaurants: A meal at a budget restaurant will typically cost around $5-$10, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around $10-$15.
Fine dining: A meal at a fine dining restaurant will typically cost around $20-$30.
Transportation
Buses: Buses are the most common way to travel around South America, with prices starting at around $10 for a short journey.
Trains: Trains are a more comfortable way to travel, but they are also more expensive, with prices starting at around $20 for a short journey.
Flights: Flights are the fastest way to travel around South America, but they are also the most expensive, with prices starting at around $100 for a short flight.
Activities
Tours: Tours are a great way to explore South America and learn about its culture and history. Prices for tours vary depending on the length and type of tour, but you can expect to pay around $20-$50 for a day tour.
Activities: Activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking are available throughout South America. Prices for activities vary, but you can expect to pay around $10-$20 for a guided activity.
Budget
Backpacker: If you’re backpacking around South America on a budget, you can expect to spend around $50 per day. This will include accommodation in hostels, eating street food and at budget restaurants, and taking buses and trains.
Mid-range: If you’re traveling on a mid-range budget, you can expect to spend around $100 per day. This will include accommodation in guesthouses, eating at mid-range restaurants, and taking buses, trains, and flights.
Luxury: If you’re traveling on a luxury budget, you can expect to spend around $200 per day. This will include accommodation in luxury hotels, eating at fine dining restaurants, and taking private tours and flights.
Tips for Saving Money
Travel during the shoulder season: The shoulder season (April-May and September-October) is a great time to travel to South America, as prices are lower and there are fewer crowds.
Book your flights and accommodation in advance: Booking your flights and accommodation in advance can help you save money on both.
Take advantage of free activities: There are many free activities available in South America, such as hiking, biking, and visiting museums.
Cook your own meals: Cooking your own meals is a great way to save money on food.
Use public transportation: Public transportation is the most affordable way to get around South America.
With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and friendly people, South America is an incredible continent to explore. By planning your budget carefully, you can have an amazing time in South America without breaking the bank.
Redactor