Dreaming of a long adventure without draining your savings? Latin America is one of the best regions in the world to travel longer, slower, and cheaper—without feeling like you’re missing out. From buzzing cities and colonial towns to beaches, mountains, and jaw-dropping nature, your money stretches surprisingly far here. Daily costs stay low, food is incredible, and moving around is often easier (and cheaper) than you’d expect. Whether you’re backpacking, working remotely, or just craving a change of scenery, these cheap places in Latin American destinations prove you don’t need a big budget to live well, explore deeply, and stay a while.
Why These Are Some of the Cheap Places in Latin America Travelers Love
One of the best things about traveling through Latin America is how far your budget can take you. In many destinations, everyday costs like accommodation, food, and transport stay refreshingly low, especially if you travel slowly and live like a local. That means more time exploring, more local meals, and fewer worries about money. The cheap places in Latin America on this list aren’t just affordable—they’re full of culture, nature, and experiences that make long stays genuinely enjoyable rather than just “budget-friendly.”
1. Bolivia
Bolivia is a fantastic choice if you’re looking to stretch your travel budget further. Seriously, your money goes a long way here. For instance, about 70 Bolivianos is roughly equivalent to 10 US dollars, which is pretty sweet.
This country is packed with natural wonders that are just begging to be explored. Think the massive Salar de Uyuni salt flats, the stunning Lake Titicaca, and the bustling, high-altitude city of La Paz. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your days hiking, exploring, and really getting off the beaten path without spending a fortune.
Here’s a rough idea of what your daily costs might look like:
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $6 – $15 | Hostels and basic guesthouses |
| Food | $5 – $10 | Local eateries and market food |
| Local Transport | $2 – $5 | Buses and shared taxis |
| Total Daily | $13 – $30 | Excludes major tours and activities |
Getting around Bolivia is also pretty affordable. Long-distance buses are a common and cheap way to travel between cities, usually costing between $5 and $15 for a journey. Just be prepared for some long rides!
Bolivia offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich indigenous culture. It’s a destination that rewards the curious traveler with unforgettable experiences at a fraction of the cost you might expect. You can find incredible meals for just a couple of dollars and pick up souvenirs or daily necessities at local markets without breaking the bank.
When you’re there, definitely check out the Witches’ Market in La Paz for some interesting finds and local snacks. It’s a vibrant spot that gives you a real feel for the city. For longer stays, consider basing yourself in Sucre, often described as a more peaceful and charming alternative to La Paz, offering a relaxed vibe perfect for settling in.
2. Ecuador
Ecuador is a real gem if you’re looking to stretch your travel budget. It’s one of those places where you can get a lot for your money, especially if you’re planning to stay for a while. The fact that they use the US dollar here is a huge plus, meaning no weird exchange rate headaches to deal with.
Getting around is pretty easy and doesn’t cost much. Buses between cities are super affordable, often costing just a dollar or two per hour of travel. When it comes to food, you can find basic meals for around $2, but if you want something a bit more substantial, expect to pay closer to $6.50 for a main dish. Accommodation is also very budget-friendly. You can snag a bed in a hostel for about $10 to $20 a night, though private rooms will naturally cost more, maybe $20 to $50.
Here’s a rough idea of daily costs:
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Hostel Bed | $10 – $20 |
| Budget Meal | $2 – $6.50 |
| Intercity Bus (hr) | $1 – $3 |
| Total Daily | $28 – $50 |
Ecuador offers a ton of variety for travelers. You’ve got the amazing wildlife in the Galápagos Islands (though that’s a separate budget item!), but also stunning colonial cities and beautiful beaches.
Some places you might want to check out:
- Quito’s Old Town: It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for just wandering around, trying local food, and soaking up the atmosphere.
- Baños: This town is a jumping-off point for exploring the Amazon. Think waterfalls, thermal springs, and forest hikes.
- Montañita: If you’re into surfing or just want to relax on the beach, this is the spot. You can even find cheap ceviche here!
Ecuador really does offer a lot for a low price. It’s a country that feels both exotic and familiar, especially with the dollar being the currency. You can find great value whether you’re exploring cities or heading out into nature.
3. Peru
Peru is a favorite for travelers seeking a long and affordable stay with huge variety and charm. There’s just so much happening here beyond Machu Picchu and the iconic llamas. Whether you end up in bustling Lima or in the scenic mountain towns like Cusco or Arequipa, you’ll always find ways to stretch your money and enjoy the culture to the fullest.
Let’s break down what life is really like cost-wise:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Hostel Bed | $7–$12/night |
| Basic Restaurant | $4–$10/meal |
| Street Food/Snack | $2–$4 |
| Local Transport | <$1–$3/trip |
| Day’s Budget | $30–$60 |
- Street food is everywhere. If you’re on a budget, try anticuchos, tamales, or pollo broaster.
- Cities like Cusco, Arequipa, and Lima all have big local markets where you can eat or shop for super cheap.
- Group tours (especially to Machu Picchu) can lower your day trip costs a lot if you split with friends or join a cheap group option.
On a typical day, you might spend your morning at a buzzing market sampling coffee, hop on a colectivo minivan for loose change to another part of town, and end up exploring ancient ruins or hanging at a laid-back hostel patio with a mountain view.
The major cities in Peru throw in the best of both worlds: fast internet for remote work, beautiful museums for a culture fix, and plenty of chill cafes. If you feel like leaving city energy behind, the Sacred Valley villages are peaceful and surrounded by green hills and river views. You can easily live on $40 a day, and sometimes less if you’re thrifty. All in all, it’s hard to beat Peru for a long, cheap escape with endless things to do.
4. Colombia
Colombia is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a place that offers a bit of everything without breaking the bank. Think stunning Caribbean beaches, cool colonial towns, and even coffee-growing regions. It’s seriously affordable, especially for folks coming from countries with a stronger currency.
You can easily get by on about $30-$50 a day, which is pretty amazing considering everything you can see and do. Local meals are super cheap, often costing just a few dollars, and you can find hostels for around $7-$10 a night. Plus, getting around is easy on the wallet with cheap buses and even affordable domestic flights if you need to cover longer distances quickly.
Here are a few highlights:
- Medellin: Known for its pleasant weather year-round, vibrant neighborhoods, and those cool cable cars that go up the hills. It feels really alive and modern.
- Cartagena: Step back in time in the walled city. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with colorful streets and old fortifications that make you feel like you’re in a movie.
- Tayrona National Park: If you love nature and beaches, this is your spot. Think clear Caribbean waters, lush jungles, and hidden coves.
Getting around Colombia is surprisingly easy and cheap. You’ve got buses connecting most places, and for longer hops, domestic flights aren’t outrageously expensive. This makes exploring different parts of the country really accessible, even on a tight budget.
5. Paraguay
Paraguay is hands-down one of South America’s best kept secrets for anyone looking to stretch their budget over a long trip. Prices here are shockingly low compared to almost anywhere else on the continent. You’ll find that meals from street food stalls and humble restaurants run about $2–$5, and a night in a hostel often costs less than $15. Most locals get around by bus, and you can hop on public transport for barely $0.30–$0.50, or head across the country for under $20.
Here’s what you can expect to spend on a normal day in Paraguay:
| Expense Type | Typical Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Meal (local spot) | $2–$5 |
| Hostel bed | $8–$15 |
| City bus ride | $0.30–$0.50 |
| Daily budget | $20–$40 |
Most travelers stick to Asunción, the capital, because it’s got a cool mix of colonial buildings, laidback riverfront spots, and huge markets—without any real tourist crowds. If you want to feel what it’s like to live in South America without the noise of mass tourism, Paraguay is a good spot to lay low, shop for groceries, and practice your Spanish with patient locals who usually aren’t trying to sell you tours.
- Stay in dorms or simple guesthouses for the lowest nightly rates.
- Eat where the locals eat—small diners and lively markets.
- Use cash more often than cards, as card acceptance can be spotty outside the big cities.
Paraguay is one of those places where you can slow down, enjoy local traditions, and still have cash left over at the end of the day. Don’t come expecting polished tourist experiences, but honestly, that’s all part of its charm.
6. Mexico City
Okay, so Mexico City. It’s massive, and honestly, if you don’t like it, you probably just haven’t found your spot yet. I’ve found that neighborhoods like Roma Norte and Condesa are super popular with people working remotely, and for good reason. They’ve got this cool, trendy vibe, plus all the cafes and co-working spots you could need.
Seriously, you’ll never run out of things to do here. From exploring ancient ruins to checking out world-class museums and eating your weight in tacos, there’s always something new. Plus, the food scene? Incredible. And the nightlife? It’s easily one of the best in the world, in my opinion.
It’s a huge city, so don’t feel like you have to stick to just one area. You can easily take day trips or even weekend getaways to nearby towns and natural wonders. It really offers a bit of everything for a long stay.
Here are a few things that make it great for remote work:
- Plenty of Cafes and Co-working Spaces: Finding a good spot to focus is easy. You’ll see people working from cafes all over the city.
- Affordability: Compared to many other major capitals, Mexico City is quite budget-friendly, especially for accommodation and food.
- Vibrant Culture: There’s always something happening, from street art to music festivals and historical sites.
- Great Infrastructure: Reliable internet is generally available, which is a big plus for remote workers.
Don’t be intimidated by the size. Break it down by neighborhood, and you’ll find your perfect little corner of this amazing metropolis. It’s a city that keeps on giving.
7. Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua, Guatemala is a real gem for anyone looking to stay put for a while without breaking the bank. It’s this charming colonial city surrounded by volcanoes, and honestly, it feels like stepping back in time, but with good Wi-Fi. Flights from the US aren’t too bad, and once you’re in Guatemala City, it’s just about an hour’s bus ride to Antigua.
It’s become super popular with people working remotely, and you can see why. There are tons of cafes perfect for getting some work done – places like Kinoki, Amor Negro, and Sarajevo Cafe are favorites. If you need something more structured, there are co-working spots too, like Centralita. The internet here is surprisingly reliable, which is always a big plus when you’re trying to get things done.
What I really like about Antigua is the mix of things to do. You’ve got the city life with its markets and history, but then you’re right there, ready for adventure.
- Hiking: The trek up Volcan Acatenango is unforgettable, offering incredible views.
- Culture: Explore the colorful streets, visit the ruins, and soak in the Maya heritage.
- Day Trips: Lake Atitlan is not too far for a change of scenery.
It’s a place where you can balance work with exploring, and the cost of living is pretty low, making it easy to stay longer.
Antigua offers a great balance of city life and the great outdoors, all while being kind to your wallet. It’s a place that really makes you want to linger.
8. Granada, Nicaragua
Granada is a really colorful city in Nicaragua, and it gets pretty hot there, so make sure wherever you stay has good air conditioning. It’s a popular spot for travelers, which makes it easy to meet people. You’ll find a good mix of things to do, from exploring the colonial architecture to enjoying the lively atmosphere.
If you’re looking for places to work, Granada has a decent number of cafes and some co-working spots. The internet is generally reliable, which is a big plus when you’re trying to get work done.
Here are a few things that make Granada a cool place to hang out:
- Colonial Charm: Wander through streets lined with brightly painted buildings and historic churches.
- Lake Nicaragua: Take a boat trip on the lake and explore the nearby islands, like the famous Ometepe Island.
- Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling markets.
Granada can get quite warm, especially during the middle of the day. Having a cool place to retreat to is definitely a good idea for longer stays.
It’s a city that offers a good vibe for both exploring and getting some work done, all without breaking the bank.
9. Brazil
Brazil is a massive country, and while it might seem intimidatingly large, it can actually be quite affordable for long stays if you know where to look and how to travel.
You can get by on around $114 USD per day, which includes accommodation, food, and transport. Think about staying in hostels for about $15 a night, and grabbing a tasty meal at a local spot for around $9. If you need to cover long distances, overnight buses are a common and budget-friendly option, costing about $81 for a long journey.
Brazil offers so much variety. You’ve got the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, which takes up a huge chunk of the country, perfect for adventure seekers. Then there’s the stunning coastline, especially around Rio de Janeiro, famous for its music, dance, and, of course, its legendary Carnival.
Here’s a quick look at potential daily costs:
- Budget Hostel: Around $15 USD
- Budget Meal: Roughly $9 USD
- Daily Total (Estimate): $114 USD (including transport)
When exploring, especially if you’re venturing into more remote areas like the Amazon or smaller villages, it’s often a good idea to go with a local guide or join a tour. It just makes things easier and safer, plus you learn a lot more.
While big cities have their own charm and attractions, don’t overlook the smaller towns and natural wonders. Brazil’s sheer size means there’s always something new to discover, and sticking to local eateries and public transport will really help keep your daily expenses down.
10. Chile
Okay, so Chile might be a bit pricier than some of its neighbors on this list, but hear me out. It’s definitely still doable for long stays if you’re smart about it. Think of it as a place where you might need to watch your spending a little more closely, but the payoff is huge.
Chile offers some of the most dramatic and diverse landscapes in South America. You’ve got the driest desert on Earth, the Atacama, up north, and then way down south, you’re looking at glaciers and the rugged beauty of Patagonia. Plus, the long, skinny shape of the country means you get everything in between – mountains, vineyards, and a long coastline.
When it comes to daily costs, you’re probably looking at around $80 USD per day on average. This can jump up, especially in popular spots like Easter Island or Patagonia, or if you’re aiming for nicer hotels. Hostels are your friend here, usually around $20 USD a night. Food can add up too, especially in bigger cities where a meal might set you back $20 USD. But, if you hit up local markets in smaller towns, you can find some really tasty and affordable eats.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might spend:
- Accommodation: Hostels are your best bet, around $20 USD per night. Mid-range hotels can easily be $50-$100 USD.
- Food: Budget $20 USD per day if you’re eating at local spots and markets. Eating out in restaurants will cost more.
- Transportation: Long-distance buses are common and can be around $20 USD for an 11-hour trip.
Chile is also known for being one of the safest countries in South America. This peace of mind is a big plus when you’re settling in for a longer trip, letting you focus more on soaking up the incredible scenery and unique culture without constant worry.
It’s a country that really rewards exploration, and while it might stretch the budget a bit more than other places, the sheer beauty and variety make it a worthwhile consideration for an extended stay.
Ready to Pack Your Bags?
So there you have it! Latin America is full of amazing places that won’t empty your wallet, perfect for that long stay you’ve been dreaming about. Whether you’re after bustling city life, quiet nature spots, or just a change of scenery, these affordable cities offer a fantastic way to experience a new culture without stressing about the cost. It’s totally doable to live well and explore a lot on a budget. Go ahead, start planning your adventure – you might be surprised at how far your money can go!
