Do you have days thinking about visiting South America? If so, don´t miss this recommendations and tips on the cheapest destinations in South America that will surprise you, guaranteed! And if you are not 100% sure, let me tell you that there any reasons to choose this part of the world full attributes and superlatives.  

Where to start?

First of all, it is home to the largest mountain range in the world, the highest lake, the largest river basin, the driest place, the second longest river after the Nile and one of the most impressive concentrations of biodiversity on the planet.  
If the idea is to enjoy beautiful landscapes, amazing views, new cultures and typical food, you have come to the right region / Photo: KamchatkaIf the idea is to enjoy beautiful landscapes, amazing views, new cultures and typical food, you have come to the right region / Photo: Kamchatka
  And if you are on a tight budget, don't worry! It's all about finding a way to travel cheaply and meet your budget goals.  In this article we share with you the cheapest (current) destinations to visit in South America:  

Things to do in La Paz, Bolivia

Bolivia is one of those countries that are never promoted enough. It is the only country where more than 60% of its inhabitants recognize themselves as part of an indigenous nation.  It is considered the cheapest country in South America, and the city of La Paz, the best for tourism accessible to all budgets.  Among the destinations that stand out are: the Salar de Uyuni and La Paz with its cable car that works as public transportation and the renowned Mercado de las Brujas (Witches' Market).  However, La Paz is a cosmopolitan city because it receives tourists from all over the world, besides finding many locals, you will find people from different parts of the world at night in La Paz, always to the sound of reggaeton, cumbia, salsa and other Latin rhythms. Staying in La Paz is really cheap. A double room in a hostel can be had for USD 7 dollars a night, and in a higher-end hotel for USD 20 dollars.  
Bolivia is considered by many as "The India of South America", due to its enormous cultural richness, surreal landscapes and that it is also very economical for travelers / Photo: Juan Cristhian ValenzuelaBolivia is considered by many as "The India of South America", due to its enormous cultural richness, surreal landscapes and that it is also very economical for travelers / Photo: Juan Cristhian Valenzuela
  Travel tip: Dare to walk the streets of the city "that touches the sky" with this classic city tour of La Paz, while strolling through its most important squares and attractions. Click here!  

Places to visit in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world.  Unfortunately, in the last few years the country's currency suffered a big devaluation and that makes it convenient for foreigners to visit. They are also a visa-free country so you know, you are all invited! Buenos Aires offers a great gastronomic variety and a cosmopolitan culture, as well as a very active nightlife. It also has multiple cultural proposals, from cinemas, theaters, museums, promenades, historic neighborhoods and monuments.  A night in a mid-range hotel in Buenos Aires costs around USD$40, and shared rooms in hostels can be had for as little as USD$7. It is possible to eat a full dinner in a good quality restaurant for USD$10.   Travel tip: If you are planning to visit Argentina, look for domestic flights on airlines such as FlyBondi and JetSmart, which are low cost.  
This amazing country offers everything, including stunning natural landscapes, great food and very low prices / Photo: Andrey KhrobostovThis amazing country offers everything, including stunning natural landscapes, great food and very low prices / Photo: Andrey Khrobostov
   

What to see in Cusco, Peru

Who hasn't dreamed of visiting the famous ancient ruins of Machu Picchu? Peru is a country that has all kinds of places to visit and for all budgets.  In addition, Peru is the star destination in South America for backpackers; and Cusco, the city that is considered the historical capital of Peru. There are many places to visit and there are inexpensive options for food, lodging and transportation. It is possible to stay in mid-range hotels for USD$40 per night and hostels from USD$10.  While it is true that the entrance fee to some places like Machu Picchu is a bit expensive, we recommend you see it as an investment. Besides, the rest of the things you can find at very good prices.  The Imperial City offers low-cost and very comfortable accommodations, restaurants and tourist sites. In short, and despite being very touristy, Cusco is among the cheapest destinations in South America, in terms of airfare, food and lodging.   Travel Tip: Visit the most important tourist attractions in the city of Cusco: The Cathedral, The Temple of the Sun and 3 nearby ruins, book now this Cusco City Tour!  

Reasons to visit Quito, Ecuador

This city, known for its cultural heritage and famous for its baroque style churches, is at 2800 meters above sea level. In addition, according to a study by the Centro de Investigación en Finanzas (CIF), Quito is the city with the cheapest square meter in Latin America.  If you travel to Quito you have to climb to the viewpoint El Panecillo, located 3000 meters above the sea, and from where you can see beautiful panoramic views of the entire city. As for accommodation, you can get quite cheap: a double room in a hostel costs from U$S 10, while a mid-range hotel can cost U$S 30 per night. You can enjoy a delicious and complete lunch for USD 4 and even less if you decide to sit at one of the many fast food joints or street stalls.  
Quito is characterized by a unique mix enriched by the diversity of climates, cultures and products of the Andean regionQuito is characterized by a unique mix enriched by the diversity of climates, cultures and products of the Andean region / Photo: Helovi
  Travel tip: Walk the streets of the Ecuadorian capital that wind through colonial and contemporary Quito with our half-day Classic City Tour - book here!  

Places to see Encarnación, Paraguay

Encarnación is one of the main cities of Paraguay. It is in the south of the country and on the banks of the Paraná River. It has a great waterfront that you can walk along day and night, where you will find beautiful beaches like San Jose, San Isidro and Mbói Ka'e. This city is famous for its carnivals, which are held in January and February in the sambadrome on the waterfront. Many people even call this city the new Rio de Janeiro. For lodging there are several options, the cheapest being the hostels, which start at US$ 8. A mid-range hotel, meanwhile, can cost from 15 dollars per night. Keep in mind that prices go up during Carnival season, with an average of US$40 per night in mid-range accommodations.  
Encarnación is a city on the north bank of the Paraná River, in southern Paraguay / Photo: Jan SchneckenhausEncarnación is a city on the north bank of the Paraná River, in southern Paraguay / Photo: Jan Schneckenhaus
  Travel tip: Did you know that Paraguay has one of the most stable economic systems in the region? All this thanks to the Paraguayan currency, the Guarani, which is one of the oldest currencies in Latin America. From endless mountains, to archaeological sites, historic cities, national parks, deserts and beaches, South America is full of breathtaking natural landscapes and culture. Come and see South America, spend little and enjoy a lot! 100% guaranteed ;)   
By: Nathaly Bosch, social communicator by profession and curious traveler by choice. Spanish editor for Daytours4u.