Rich in culture and boasting some of the world’s most beautiful environments, the Americas are a gateway to some of the most exhilarating travel in the world. In part 2 of this series on budget travel, we look at the top 3 pocket-friendly destinations for the budget traveller in Central and South America.
1. Discover the diverse beauty of Nicaragua on a budget
A place where wild forests separate beaches from volcanic landscapes, Nicaragua is the budget traveller’s dream destination, offering up a wealth of experiences where history and modernity collide.
Granada
From delicious street food to art, culture and nightlife, the Nicaraguan city of Granada is a must see. Relive the colonial history of Granada through the impressive architecture and experience first hand the free-spirited nature of the Nicaraguan people in this magnetic, energetic city.
Little Corn Island
Little Corn Island offers a Caribbean escape like no other, free from cars and technology, the budget traveler delights in crystal clear waters and epic trekking adventures through the rugged hillsides. There are a number of boutique yoga options that are a must-try activity while you’re there, including yoga on paddle boards!
Image via Trip Advisor
“Paddle board yoga was a blast! I had the amazing opportunity to work with Jacq in a photo session and was later able to tag along in one of her paddle board yoga classes! … It’s a must do if you’re visiting Little Corn!” – Lindy M via TripAdvisor
Nicaraguan travel budget breakdown
- Flights: Flights to Nicaragua run around $1400-1800 return.
- Accommodation: Guest houses and hostels can be as cheap as $15 a night.
- Food: Good, cheap meals around $5.
- Travel: Bus trips $1. Car hire formats cheap as $15 a day.
- Spending: $10 or less for good gifts.
- Daily budget: $30-$50 a day.
2. Uncover Peru: A budget traveler’s paradise
A nation of incomparable beauty, history and community, Peru lures the budget traveller with myths and legends, and delivers a cheap travel experience that’s not to be missed. A Peruvian Sol is typically less than half an Australian dollar, and general costs of living are around 50-65% cheaper. With such rich experiences on offer, is it any wonder it’s a favourite among budget travellers everywhere.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Perhaps the most popular walking trail on South America, the hike to Machu Picchu can still be done for cheap if you book early through a good tour operator. For example, G Adventures have a whole range of Machu Picchu tours starting from just over $1,000, depending on how long you want to travel for. Permit numbers are limited daily, so planning and booking through a company is essential, but the experience is more than memorable.
Lima delights the tastebuds
Foodies will embrace the myriad of delicious street foods, particularly in Lima where you can get everything from papa rellena (baked potatoes) to choclo con queso (corn with cheese), quail eggs and the deliciously sweet yuquitas – pastries made from yucca root. All available from street vendors that are scattered throughout the city.
Rich in ancient history
The floating reef islands of Lake Titicaca and Choquequirao the ‘other lost city’ are must sees for lovers of outdoor adventure.
Image courtesy of helenaolers via TripAdvisor
“Trekking to Choquequirao proved to be one of the most fascinating and impressive experiences. Even though it was a challenging trek, definitely a strenuous one it was well worth all the physical strain.” – helenaolers (July 2017)
Peru travel budget breakdown
- Flights: Flights costs anywhere from $1200-1800
- Accommodation: Hostel dorms cost around $10-16 a bed, while a double rooms are around $25
- Travel: Bus tickets around 0.50 cents. Long distance trains will run around $2 per hour.
- Food: $3 for street food. $1 for bottle of water.
- Spending: Gifts cost around $5.
- Daily budget: $50
3. Discover pocket friendly adventure in Ecuador
From the depths the Amazon rainforests to the dizzying peaks of the Andes, Ecuador’s stunning landscapes are perfectly matched by welcoming villages and bustling colonial centers. Though it may be a small nation, Ecuador is packed with discoveries for the intrepid traveller.
Climb new heights in Quito
Situated high in the Andes, Quito is the quintessential Ecuadorian experience. Bustling town plazas, modern and traditional housing, bespoke handcrafted wares and a high tempo nightlife that blends perfectly with a unique and exquisite range of cuisines. Discover Quito and rediscover yourself high in the Andes.
Visit the Galapagos islands
The outdoor adventure of a lifetime awaits you on the Galapagos islands, one of the world’s most unique and biodiverse ecosystems and easily accessible from Ecuador. There are a few requirements you’ll need to sort before going, such as a return airline ticket and hotel reservation, so be sure to check this website before going.
Ecuador travel budget breakdown
- Flights: Flights to Ecuador cost between $1400-1800
- Accommodation: Dorm rooms in hostels cost between $10-15 per night.
- Travel: Expect to pay around $1 per hour on trains. Local buses are about 0.50 cents.
- Food: Costs range from $3 for street food to around $10-22 for a full meal.
- Spending: Gifts cost between $5-10
- Daily budget: Around $35-50.
Start planning your budget holiday today
With the right planning and a little help from SRG Finance, your next trip to the Americas doesn’t need to break the bank. Talk to us today and discover how SRG Finance can help you fund your next travel adventure.
