Budget Tours to South America

What our customers ask about Budget Tours to South America

• When is the most affordable time to visit South America?

  The best deals in South America can be found during April-June and September-November. These shoulder seasons bring mild weather and fewer tourists which means better rates on flights and hotels. Travelers can save up to 20% compared to peak seasons by visiting major sites like Machu Picchu in April or the Uyuni Salt Flats in September. The busiest and most expensive periods are December-February (summer high season) and July-August (winter high season) when prices can spike significantly.

• What are some good budget-friendly areas to visit in South America?

  Bolivia stands out as one of South America's best values with affordable food lodging and activities in cities like La Paz and Sucre. The famous Salar de Uyuni tours remain reasonably priced despite their popularity. Northern Argentina particularly around Salta delivers authentic experiences without the premium prices of more touristy regions. In Peru smaller Sacred Valley towns such as Ollantaytambo and Pisac offer similar cultural richness to Cusco but at lower prices that stretch travel budgets further.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on budget tours in South America?

  Budget accommodations range from basic hostels to distinctive local stays. Near Bolivia's Uyuni Salt Flats guests sleep in hotels built from salt blocks while Lake Titicaca offers homestays with local families. The Oasis Overland tour features camping in the Atacama Desert and stays at mid-range hotels like Casa Andina Standard in Cusco. While amenities are simple the lodgings are clean comfortable and provide genuine local experiences at reasonable rates.

• What is the average daily budget needed for expenses not included in South American budget tours?

  Budget 30-45 USD daily for meals activities and personal expenses not covered by tours. Local meals cost 5-10 USD in Peru and 10-15 USD in Argentina. Additional activities remain affordable with sandboarding in Huacachina at 15 USD and Baños hot springs for 4 USD. Recent G Adventures tour participants reported spending about 35 USD per day on extra expenses when choosing local eateries and markets over tourist restaurants.

• What essential tips help save money while traveling through South America on a budget?

  For a 2-3 week tour plan 300-500 USD for optional activities. Popular choices include sandboarding in Huacachina for 15 USD wine tasting tours in Mendoza at 50 USD and Bolivia's Death Road bike adventure for 125 USD. This budget allows flexibility to join most offered activities while maintaining reasonable spending limits.

• How much should I budget for entrance fees to attractions in South America?

  Reserve 300-500 USD for activity fees and entrance costs. Common expenses include Huacachina sandboarding at 30 USD Rainbow Mountain treks for 40 USD and Lake Titicaca boat excursions at 35 USD. This amount typically covers most desired activities during a standard multi-week tour without requiring strict budgeting.