South America offers incredible diversity for backpackers—Andean mountains, Amazon jungle, Patagonian wilderness, and vibrant cities. Here's how to plan a route that maximizes experiences while minimizing costs.
Country-by-Country Budget Guide
Bolivia
South America's most affordable country. Daily budget: $25-40
- La Paz is one of the cheapest capitals in the world
- Uyuni salt flats tours are excellent value
- Transportation is cheap but can be rough
Peru
Middle-range costs, expensive only for Machu Picchu. Daily budget: $35-55
- Cusco is pricier due to tourist volume
- Machu Picchu entrance + train adds $150-300
- Lima and Arequipa offer good value
Ecuador
Dollarized economy, moderate costs. Daily budget: $35-50
- Quito and Cuenca are affordable cities
- Galápagos is expensive but possible on a budget with last-minute local boats
- Amazon tours available at various price points
Colombia
Excellent value with improving tourism infrastructure. Daily budget: $35-55
- Major cities (Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena) well-developed for travelers
- Excellent hostel network
- Caribbean coast slightly more expensive
Argentina
Variable due to economic fluctuations. Daily budget: $40-70
- Buenos Aires surprisingly affordable for a major city
- Patagonia is expensive regardless of country (Argentina or Chile)
- Wine regions offer good value
Chile
Most developed and most expensive. Daily budget: $50-80
- Santiago has urban costs
- Patagonia (Torres del Paine) is budget-breaking but worthwhile
- Atacama Desert tours add up
Brazil
Large variance by region. Daily budget: $45-75
- Rio and São Paulo most expensive
- Northeast (Salvador, Recife) more affordable
- Vast distances mean significant transport costs
Border Crossing Tips
- Most crossings are straightforward with proper documentation
- Land borders often cheaper than flying
- Keep receipts from entry—some countries require proof of funds
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for some crossings
- Budget extra time for border crossings (can take hours)
Classic Backpacker Routes
Gringo Trail (Classic)
Colombia → Ecuador → Peru → Bolivia → Chile/Argentina
Following the Andes, hitting major highlights. Well-established hostel infrastructure.
Brazil Focus
Rio → Salvador → Northeast coast → Amazon
Beach-focused with jungle option. More expensive than Andean route.
Transport Strategies
- Buses: The backbone of South American travel. Cama (bed) class worth it for overnight trips.
- Flights: Sometimes competitive for long distances. Check Sky Airline, Viva Air, Avianca.
- Border buses: International buses often good value for crossing borders.
Seasonal Considerations
- Southern hemisphere seasons are reversed
- Patagonia: October-April (their summer)
- Amazon: Dry season varies by country
- Machu Picchu: May-October (dry season) is peak
- Galápagos: Year-round, but December-May warmest water
Budget Pitfalls
- Must-do activities: Machu Picchu, Galápagos, and Patagonia are expensive—budget for them specifically
- Altitude sickness: Rushing from sea level to Cusco/La Paz can ruin days. Acclimate slowly.
- Distance underestimation: South America is huge. Build in transport time and costs.