If you’re looking for a getaway that won’t break the bank this year, here are some excellent South American destinations to consider. Of course, you’ll definitely want to check your government’s trip advisories for regions and places to avoid before you decide to buy tickets. It goes without saying that South America isn’t a place for the faint of heart. But budget travelers can score some great deals, if they don’t mind taking some necessary precautions while they’re on vacation.
Image Source: Steven Zwerink via Flickr and CC 2.0
Isla Holbox, Mexico. Due to the favorable exchange rates, Mexico’s become a good budget spot for North American travelers. Although Cancun might be the first spot that comes to mind, think again. The shores are often crowded and the hotel prices can be shockingly high. So why not try the charming Isla Holbox instead?
Located only 2.5 hour drive or taxi ride from Cancun, the island is quite different from its more rowdy and well-known sibling. This peaceful spot is home to relaxing beaches, friendly locals, affordable accommodations, and some of the best seafood around.
However, Isla Holbox keeps appearing with increasing frequency in popular publications. It’s growing reputation as an up-and-coming destinations means that it won’t remain secret for long. So you’ll definitely want to go while the island still has a calm and laid back atmosphere, a factor that’s been missing for years in places like Cancun and Tulum.
Image Source: chahayes via Flickr and CC 2.0
Buenas Aires, Argentina. Argentina is well-known for its natural wonders that include places like Iguazu Falls and the Glaciers National Park. Of course, the capitol city of Buenas Aries is a great place to start your vacation. The town is home to a number of noteworthy attractions like the local opera house, the peaceful Bosques de Palemro, and the weekend markets that are held in the Recoleta neighborhood. Travelers can even enroll in tango or Spanish lessons at one of the locals schools while they’re in town. Even though March is the most affordable month to visit Buenas Aires, finding a great deal in this town isn’t all that difficult.
Travelers who are worried about their safety might do well to stop in Argentina. The country is often regarded as being one of the safest destinations in South America. However, petty crimes continue to exist in the country and travelers should familiarize themselves with these scams before making plans to visit. Canadians should also be aware that there is a fee ($78 in USD) that they must pay in order to visit the country.
Before Sunrise at Ipanema Beach. Image Source: Jimmy Baikovicius via Flickr and CC 2.0.
Rio de Janerio, Brazil. This city is home to some amazing architecture as well as the ever-popular statue of Christ the Redeemer. (Yes, the one in all the photos.) Tasty, affordable food is another thing that Rio has going for it. Then there are all those wonderful places to shop…
Travelers should nonetheless be aware that Rio is a large city with a number of dangerous areas that should be avoided. As is the case with most metropolitan areas, travelers will need to keep their wits about them and familiarize themselves with the local scams if they want to avoid getting into any sticky situations.
Rio is at its absolute cheapest in November, but it also has good weather and prices during the month of June. Travelers who are operating on a modest budget can easily get by on $45 a day, according to the experts at Price of Travel. However, folks that want to see more than just the basic attractions should view that as a base line only and plan to take plenty of extra funds for their trip.
Sources: Forbes; Budget Travel; Travel + Leisure; Price of Travel; Wikipedia; Lonely Planet; Indie Traveler; Latin Post; WikiTravel.org; Trip Advisor,
