Have you ever felt that exhilarating mix of excitement and slight panic when planning a big trip, especially to a continent as diverse and vast as South America? I know I did. The decision to backpack solo across South America for 9 months was one of the best choices of my life, an epic adventure that exceeded every expectation.
Like many, I started with a blank slate when it came to budgeting and navigating the continent. No fancy sponsorships, just a genuine desire to explore. From the smallest treat, like 10-peso caramelos in Argentina, to significant expenses like a $1000 trek, I meticulously tracked every penny to stay on top of my South America Travel budget.
Accommodation ranged from budget-friendly $4 dorm rooms in Huaraz to splurge-worthy hostels in Patagonia costing over $100 per night. I aimed for a balance, roughly 50/50 between hostels and Airbnbs, finding that sweet spot between cost and comfort.
Evenings were a highlight, whether it was grilling Asado in Argentina under the stars, indulging in vibrant street food in Cartagena, or sharing delicious meals with newfound travel buddies. For long treks, I always packed essentials: granola bars and sandwiches, fueling adventures amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Some experiences were worth every penny, like the unforgettable treks in Patagonia. Others, like certain multi-day hikes in Colombia, didn’t quite match the value for the cost, and I learned to be discerning with my spending. My journey was a tapestry of incredible moments: braving freezing border crossings between Bolivia and Argentina, cycling through the scorching Atacama Desert, glacier trekking in Patagonia, sleeping under a canopy of stars in Tayrona National Park, and even cartwheeling across the vibrant Rainbow Mountains.
The days flew by, each one packed with new sights, sounds, and experiences. Those nine months were a whirlwind of exploration and discovery!
Below, I’ll break down my South America travel budget for this incredible 9-month backpacking trip.
Note: This budget and itinerary reflect my personal experience as someone who was initially hesitant about solo travel in South America and largely planned as I went. It wasn’t a perfectly optimized route, and in hindsight, some aspects could have been better planned. However, everything unfolded perfectly for my unique journey, and that’s the beauty of travel – creating your own adventure, your own way.
My 9-Month South America Backpacking Budget Breakdown
| Expense Category | Percentage of Total Budget | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 30% | Hostels, Airbnbs, camping | Varied greatly depending on location, from very cheap dorms to more expensive private rooms or unique stays. Balancing hostels and Airbnbs allowed for cost saving and some extra comfort. |
| Food & Drink | 25% | Street food, market meals, restaurants, groceries, snacks, drinks (non-alcoholic & occasional alcoholic) | Embracing local street food and markets significantly reduced costs. Cooking some meals myself also helped. Splurging on occasional restaurant meals provided cultural experiences. |
| Transportation | 20% | Buses (local & long-distance/night buses), internal flights (limited), public transport, cycling | Night buses were a budget-friendly way to cover long distances and save on accommodation. Limited internal flights to save money, prioritizing overland travel where possible. Local transport and cycling were cost-effective for shorter distances. |
| Activities & Sightseeing | 15% | Trekking permits, entrance fees to national parks/sites, tours, experiences | Prioritized free activities like hiking and exploring cities on foot where possible. Selected paid activities carefully, focusing on unique and highly recommended experiences. Balancing free and paid activities kept costs manageable. |
| Miscellaneous | 10% | Visas (if needed), travel insurance, laundry, souvenirs, toiletries, unexpected costs | Included buffer for unexpected expenses. Travel insurance is crucial. Souvenirs kept to a minimum to stay within budget. |
This table provides a general overview of how my budget was distributed. Remember, this is based on my personal travel style and choices. Your South America travel budget may vary depending on your preferences for accommodation, food, activities, and pace of travel.
Creating Your Own South America Travel Story
Planning a trip to South America might seem daunting at first, but with a bit of flexibility and an adventurous spirit, it becomes an incredibly rewarding journey. Don’t be afraid to deviate from the ‘perfect route’ and embrace the unexpected. Your unique experiences and discoveries are what will make your South America travel story truly special. Whether you are drawn to the towering peaks of Patagonia, the arid beauty of the Atacama Desert, the lush landscapes of Colombia, or the vibrant cultures throughout the continent, South America offers something for every traveler. So, take the leap, start planning, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
