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Fear not if your ever-growing travel wish list is putting pressure on your pocket — plenty of destinations still offer more bang for your buck. From street food in Vietnam to island-hopping in the Philippines, to hiking through the Andes — and beyond — here we present 20 of the cheapest places to travel around the world.
- Overview of the cheapest places to visit
- Vietnam: $69/day
- Cambodia: $73/day
- Laos: $21/day
- India: $45/day
- Nepal: $43/day
- Indonesia: $68/day
- Sri Lanka: $62/day
- Philippines: $74/day
- Pakistan: $61/day
- Albania: $92/day
- Romania: $97/day
- Bulgaria: $77/day
- Bolivia: $63/day
- Ecuador: $75/day
- Peru: $71/day
- Uruguay: $85/day
- Nicaragua: $63/day
- Guatemala: $58/day
- South Africa: $102/day
- Egypt: $19/day
Overview of the cheapest places to visit
Country | Daily Budget | Meals | Transport | Accommodation | Best Time to Visit |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
South Africa | $102 | $34 | $15 | $94 | May-Sept |
Romania | $97 | $45 | $21 | $59 | Oct-Mar |
Albania | $92 | $34 | $15 | $58 | Nov-Mar |
Uruguay | $85 | $35 | $20 | $64 | May-Sept |
Bulgaria | $77 | $27 | $13 | $72 | Nov-Mar |
Ecuador | $75 | $31 | $10 | $40 | Oct-Nov |
Philippines | $74 | $25 | $21 | $50 | June-Nov |
Cambodia | $73 | $27 | $7.5 | $46 | May-Oct |
Peru | $71 | $27 | $8 | $51 | Oct-Apr |
Vietnam | $69 | $23 | $12 | $54 | Oct-Dec |
Indonesia | $68 | $26 | $7 | $61 | Apr-Oct |
Bolivia | $63 | $27 | $11 | $33 | Mar-Apr |
Nicaragua | $63 | $24 | $10 | $33 | May-Oct |
Sri Lanka | $62 | $27 | $5 | $49 | May-Sept |
Pakistan | $61 | $22 | $8 | $48 | Nov-Feb |
Guatemala | $58 | $23 | $9 | $33 | May-Oct |
India | $45 | $17 | $7.5 | $30 | July-Sept |
Nepal | $43 | $13 | $10 | $32 | Oct-Nov |
Laos | $21 | $10 | $2 | $11.5 | May-Sept |
Egypt | $19 | $10 | $3 | $14 | June-Aug |
Methodology
We rank these countries based on the research we did for our own travel guides and prices based on real traveler experience from BudgetYourTrip.
Vietnam: $69/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍜 Food per day: $23 | 🚕 Transport: $12 | 🏨 Hotels: $54 | ✈️ Flights from US: $~800
📅 Cheapest time to visit: October-December (shoulder season)
Vietnam is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers, especially compared to Thailand. Getting around is easy with the country’s bus network, and homestays in places like Mu Cang Chai give you a chance to experience daily life at a lower cost.
In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, street food is a big part of local culture—a bowl of pho costs about $2. For accommodations, you can expect to spend around $25 for a clean guesthouse with air conditioning and breakfast, while budget hotels with extra amenities are about $50.
Free things to do in Vietnam
- Walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter: Walk narrow streets packed with history, hidden alleys, and bustling markets.
- Hike in Bach Ma National Park: Trek through misty mountains and dense forests, passing waterfalls and spotting wildlife.
- Visit temples and pagodas: Many are free to enter and a great way to see Vietnamese Buddhist traditions up close.
- Spend a day at the beach: From the soft sands of An Bang to the quiet coves around Phu Quoc, there’s plenty of coastline. Here's our pick of the best beaches in Vietnam.

Vietnam (Railway Hai Van Pass): one our picks for the cheapest places to travel © Shutterstock
Cambodia: $73/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍜 Food per day: $27 | 🚕 Transport: $7-8 | 🏨 Hotels: $46 | ✈️ Flights from US: $600-900
📅 Cheapest time to visit: May-October (Green Season)
Cambodia is one of the cheapest places to travel, especially if you go beyond Angkor Wat. The green season (May–October) comes with occasional afternoon showers, but it also means fewer tourists and lower hotel prices. S
treet food is cheap, and family-run guesthouses can be as inexpensive as a meal in the West. Even in Siem Reap, you can get by on $50–70 a day without cutting too many corners. See more about how to make the most of your time here with our Cambodia itineraries.
Free things to do in Cambodia
- Walk through the Royal Palace gardens: The palace grounds in Phnom Penh are a great place to catch a sunset over the Mekong River.
- Take a walk along the Kampot River: Watch daily life unfold as families gather along the riverfront and street food stalls start setting up.
- Relax on Koh Rong’s beaches: Cambodia’s largest island has quiet white sand beaches, and at night, you can see bioluminescent waters glow.
- Explore traditional markets: Markets like Psar Thmei in Phnom Penh are great places to get fresh produce, street food, and souvenirs.

Nokor Bachey Pagoda, Kampong Cham, Cambodia © Sergei Mugashev/Shutterstock
Laos: $21/day
💰 Budget tier: Shoestring budget
🍜 Food per day: $10 | 🚕 Transport: $2 | 🏨 Hotels: $8-15 | ✈️ Flights from US: $800-1200
📅 Cheapest time to visit: May-September (Green Season)
Laos is a relaxed place with stunning landscapes and fewer tourists. In Luang Prabang, you’ll find a mix of French colonial buildings and golden temples. It’s easy to keep costs low here—a budget of $25 a day covers a place to stay, local meals, and transport. If you’re up for an adventure, rent a motorbike ($8/day) and explore the waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau, or stay in a homestay in Kong Lor ($15/night) to visit its massive 3.5 mile-long cave ($6 entry fee).
Free things to do in Laos
- Watch the morning alms ceremony: At dawn in Luang Prabang, monks walk through the streets collecting offerings in a quiet, centuries-old tradition.
- Wander through the night markets: In Vientiane, night markets are great for strolling, with street food, local crafts, and a buzzing atmosphere.
- Visit temples: Many wats allow free entry, offering a peaceful space to explore, meditate, or simply take in the architecture.
- Walk along the Mekong at sunset: The river promenade is a popular evening spot, with street food stalls, open-air exercise areas, and great views.

Kouang Si Falls (Tat Kuang Si Waterfalls) at Luang Prabang, Laos © Artit Wongpradu/Shutterstock
India: $45/day
💰 Budget tier: Shoestring budget
🍜 Food per day: $17 | 🚕 Transport: $5-10 | 🏨 Hotels: $30 | ✈️ Flights from US: $800-1200
📅 Cheapest time to visit: July-September (Monsoon Season)
India is a place where you can stretch your budget while experiencing a huge range of landscapes. From the Himalayas to Kerala’s beaches, there are ways to keep costs low if you know where to look.
While some travelers spend over $100 on Kerala backwater cruises, you can take a public ferry from Alappuzha for just a couple of dollars. In Delhi, Chandni Chowk is packed with street food stalls serving traditional dishes for next to nothing. Budget guesthouses are easy to find, and in expensive cities, train station retiring rooms ($5-10/night) are a clean and convenient alternative. See our guide for more tips for backpacking in India.
Free things to do in India
- Watch life along the ghats in Varanasi: See morning prayers, laundry washing, and daily routines unfold along the Ganges.
- Walk through Lodhi Gardens in Delhi: A quiet park with historic tombs and tree-lined paths, popular for picnics and morning walks.
- Relax on Goa’s beaches: From the busy sands of Baga to the quieter shores of Butterfly Beach, the coastline is free to explore.
- Visit Hindu temples: Many temples allow visitors to enter for free.

Mount Abu is a hill station in Rajasthan state, India © Shutterstock
Nepal: $43/day
💰 Budget tier: Shoestring budget
🍜 Food per day: $13 | 🚕 Transport: $10 | 🏨 Hotels: $32 | ✈️ Flights from US: $800-1200
📅 Cheapest time to visit: October-November
Nepal is well known for trekking, but there’s a lot more to experience beyond the trails. Basic teahouses in trekking regions provide beds for under $5 a night, and city guesthouses with modern comforts rarely cost more than $15. Food per day is affordable too—during a trek, dal bhat (lentils and rice) is the best way to stay full on a budget since refills are always free. Nepal is easily one of the cheapest places to travel, and yet makes for a memorable and unique trip.
Free things to do in Nepal
- Stroll through Durbar Square: Kathmandu’s old city is packed with history, markets, and hidden courtyards. While some areas require a ticket, plenty of streets are free to wander.
- Step into a monastery: Many Buddhist monasteries welcome visitors for morning and evening prayers. It’s a peaceful way to see daily spiritual life in action.
- Hike through the Kathmandu Valley: Follow ancient stone staircases that connect villages, with sweeping mountain views along the way.
- Join the celebrations: If you’re in town during Indra Jatra or Tihar, don’t miss the street processions, music, and rituals

Nepal: one of the cheapest places to travel© Shutterstock
Indonesia: $68/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍜 Food per day: $26 | 🚕 Transport: $5-9 | 🏨 Hotels: $61 | ✈️ Flights from US: $800-1200
📅 Cheapest time to visit: April-October (Dry Season)
Indonesia is much more than Bali, and traveling beyond the usual spots can help keep costs down. While resorts in Seminyak charge high prices, places like Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands have beachfront bungalows for around $20-25.
Local warungs (small family-run restaurants) serve dishes like nasi goreng and gado-gado for under $3. Budget-friendly guesthouses with pools are easy to find for less than $20 if you stay outside the main tourist areas.
Free things to do in Indonesia
- Catch sunrise at Mount Bromo: Skip the tours and hike to a free viewpoint for a breathtaking sunrise over the volcano.
- Explore Indonesia’s beaches: From Bali’s black sand shores to Komodo’s pink beaches, stunning coastlines are everywhere.
- Wander through traditional markets: Experience everyday life in Indonesia by exploring lively morning markets filled with fresh produce and local snacks.
- Visit temples in Bali: Many Hindu temples welcome visitors to join morning ceremonies at no cost, offering a glimpse into local spiritual life.

View from Gili Trawangan on Gunung Agung, Bali © Shutterstock
Sri Lanka: $62/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍽️ Food per day: $27 | 🚕 Transport: $5 | 🏨 Hotels: $49 | ✈️ Flights from US: $800-1200
📅 Cheapest time to visit: May-September (monsoon season)
Sri Lanka is packed with history, beaches, and wildlife, all at a reasonable cost. The famous train rides through tea country are a must, and local "rice and curry" meals can be huge for under $4. Family-run guesthouses are a great way to experience local hospitality without stretching your budget.
If you catch a local bus between 4:30 and 6:30 AM, you’ll pay half the usual fare and might see the morning alms-giving ritual, where monks collect food from villagers. The Kandy to Ella train ride is another budget-friendly experience—grab a window seat for mountain views, with tickets starting at just $1-3.
Free things to do in Sri Lanka:
- Walk through Galle Fort: Explore this historic district, where colonial-era buildings overlook the Indian Ocean.
- Experience temple festivals: Visit during full moon Poya days to witness vibrant processions, drumming, and Buddhist ceremonies.
- Enjoy the beaches: Relax on the shores of Arugam Bay or Mirissa, where golden sand and stunning sunsets come at no cost.
- See our Sri Lanka itineraries for inspiration.

Pidurangala Rock Sri Lanka ©Justina and Lauren Blog
Philippines: $74/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍽️ Food per day: $25 | 🚕 Transport: $21 | 🏨 Hotels: $50 | ✈️ Flights from US: $600-900
📅 Cheapest time to visit: June-November (low season)
With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines has a lot of variety at budget-friendly prices. Some areas are heavy on resorts, but in local neighborhoods and smaller islands, you’ll find simple beachfront cottages for under $20 and filling meals at carinderias for just a few dollars. This is one of the cheapest places to travel where you can spend your entire trip on the beach.
If you’re booking an island-hopping tour, head to the port and deal directly with local boat operators instead of going through hotels—you’ll usually save 40-50%, and group rates are negotiable.
Free things to do in the Philippines:
- Enjoy stunning beach views: Some islands are so close together that you can soak in the scenery without needing a tour.
- Walk through Intramuros: Manila’s walled city is filled with colonial-era landmarks, and exploring its streets won’t cost a thing.
- Hike through the rice terraces: Trails around Banaue offer breathtaking views of the famous terraces, no entrance fee required.
- Join a local festival: Experience the energy of Sinulog in Cebu, Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, or Panagbenga in Baguio—where street parades, music, and vibrant celebrations take over the city.

Maria Cristina Falls, Iligan, Mindanao, Philippines © Shutterstock
Pakistan: $61/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍽️ Food per day: $22 | 🚕 Transport: $8 | 🏨 Hotels: $48 | ✈️ Flights from US: $800-1200
📅 Cheapest time to visit: November-February
Pakistan is an affordable place to explore, with dramatic mountain scenery and historic cities. The Karakoram Highway takes you through incredible landscapes, while places like Lahore have centuries-old Mughal architecture to check out. Local hospitality is strong, and you might even be invited in for tea or a meal.
Lahore’s Walled City is a great place to wander. You can try fantastic street food like nihari, fresh lassi, and kebabs for $5-7.
Free things to do in Pakistan:
- Visit Badshahi Mosque: Walk through one of the world’s largest mosques, where grand Mughal architecture meets peaceful courtyards.
- Hike to Fairy Meadows: The trek itself is free, offering breathtaking mountain views, though you’ll need a permit to enter the area.
- Explore Lahore’s Walled City: Get lost in its winding streets, where centuries-old architecture, bustling markets, and history come alive.
- Relax in a tea house: Spend an afternoon sipping chai in a traditional tea house, where conversation flows as freely as the tea.

Thar Desert, Pakistan (one of the cheapest places to travel) © Shutterstock
Albania: $92/day
💰 Budget tier: Affordable (but pricier)
🍜 Food per day: $34 | 🚕 Transport: $15 | 🏨 Hotels: $58 | ✈️ Flights from US: $800
📅 Cheapest time to visit: November-March
Albania is an affordable alternative to its Mediterranean neighbors. While a night on Croatia's coast can easily cost $200+, you can wake up to turquoise waters in Ksamil or Dhërmi for as little as $30. In Sarandë, seafood restaurants serve fresh catches for $10-15, a fraction of what you'd pay in Greece.
Even in peak summer, Albania's beaches and historic sites aren’t overcrowded (see more about when to go to Albania). Family-run guesthouses have home-cooked meals and local insight, and Albania's bus network connects Ottoman-era towns to the coast for a reasonable price.
Free things to do in Albania
- Walk through Berat Castle: Explore the historic hilltop fortress in the "City of a Thousand Windows" and take in wide valley views.
- Beach-hop along the Riviera: Skip the crowds and find quiet coves and sandy stretches along Albania’s coastline.
- Check out Tirana’s street art: Walk through the capital’s streets, where murals and repurposed communist-era buildings tell the city’s story.
- Hike between mountain villages: Trek through the Albanian Alps, passing traditional villages.

Christian Church in the village of Theth in Prokletije or Acursed Mountains in Theth National Park, Albania © Shutterstock
Romania: $97/day
💰 Budget tier: Affordable (but pricier)
🍜 Food per day: $45 | 🚕 Transport: $21 | 🏨 Hotels: $59 | ✈️ Flights from US: $500-800
📅 Cheapest time to visit: October-March (excluding holidays)
Medieval castles, misty mountains, and budget-friendly prices make Romania a good choice for those looking for a mix of history and nature. While most tourists visit Bran Castle for its Dracula connection, the real highlights are Saxon villages and old-world towns.
Staying in a pensiune (family-run guesthouse) means home-cooked Romanian meals and a shot of țuică (plum brandy). Romania’s train network is inexpensive and connects major cities efficiently.
Free things to do in Romania
- Walk through Bucharest’s parks: Take a break from the city in Cișmigiu Gardens or wander through the sprawling Herăstrău Park for a scenic stroll.
- Step into Romania’s village life: Visit open-air museums in small towns to see traditional homes, local crafts, and rural culture.
- Hike the Carpathian trails: Trek through dense forests, with sweeping mountain views along the way.
- Explore medieval old towns: Wander the cobbled streets of Sighișoara and Brașov, where Gothic architecture and cozy cafés set the scene.

Corvin castle, Romania © RossHelen/Shutterstock
Bulgaria: $77/day
💰 Budget tier: Affordable (but pricier)
🍜 Food per day: $27 | 🚕 Transport: $13 | 🏨 Hotels: $72 | ✈️ Flights from US: $600-800
📅 Cheapest time to visit: November-March
Bulgaria is a place where centuries-old traditions and stunning landscapes come together—without breaking the bank. You can explore Roman ruins in Plovdiv in the morning and be on a quiet Black Sea beach by the afternoon.
For skiing, skip expensive resorts and stay in hizhas (mountain huts) in the Pirin range. Mehanas (taverns) serve hearty, traditional meals, often with homemade wine.
Long-distance buses are best booked directly through local companies like Union Ivkoni, which is cheaper than international ticketing websites.
Free things to do in Bulgaria
- Visit Rila Monastery: Explore Bulgaria’s spiritual heart, where centuries-old Orthodox traditions live on amid stunning mountain scenery. One of the best things to do in Bulgaria.
- See Sofia’s socialist landmarks: Walk through the city’s communist-era monuments and street art, a window into Bulgaria’s recent past.
- Hike the Seven Rila Lakes: Trek one of the Balkans’ most scenic mountain trails, with breathtaking views at every turn.
- Explore Plovdiv’s Old Town: Wander through Roman amphitheaters, cobbled streets, and colorful Bulgarian Revival houses.

Pink rose valley in Bulgaria © Shutterstock
Bolivia: $63/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍜 Food per day: $27 | 🚕 Transport: $11 | 🏨 Hotels: $33 | ✈️ Flights from US: $600-800
📅 Cheapest time to visit: March-April (shoulder season)
Bolivia is one of the most affordable destinations in South America, with a landscape that ranges from the Amazon rainforest to the high-altitude salt flats. A three-day tour of Salar de Uyuni costs about $150—far less than a single day in Chile’s Atacama Desert.
Markets sell almuerzo (set lunches) for as little as $3, and budget hostels in La Paz often have incredible city views. If you’re looking for something less traveled, Torotoro National Park ($4 entry) has canyons, caves, and dinosaur footprints without the crowds.
Free things to do in Bolivia
- Explore the Witches’ Market: Wander through this unusual La Paz market, where traditional healers sell herbs, amulets, and ritual items.
- Relax in Sucre’s main plaza: Sit back and people-watch in Bolivia’s colonial capital, surrounded by whitewashed buildings.
- Walk along Lake Titicaca: Stroll the shoreline in Copacabana, where traditional reed boats still drift on the water.
- Hike Cochabamba’s trails: Climb around Cristo de la Concordia for sweeping views of the valley below.

Center of the city of Potosi at sunny day, Bolivia © Dudarev Mikhail/Shutterstock
Ecuador: $75/day
💰 Budget tier: Affordable (but pricier)
🍜 Food per day: $31 | 🚕 Transport: $10 | 🏨 Hotels: $40 | ✈️ Flights from US: $400-600
📅 Cheapest time to visit: October-November (shoulder season)
Ecuador packs a lot into a small space. The Galápagos can be expensive, but the mainland has plenty of wildlife and nature at a lower cost. In places like Mindo's cloud forest, you can see hummingbirds and butterflies for a $5 entrance fee, and hostels start at $15 per night. Almuerzo (set lunch) spots serve filling two-course meals with fresh juice for $3-4—an easy way to keep food costs low.
For fresh ingredients and a glimpse of daily life, head to the mercados early in the morning. Arriving before 10 AM means better prices, fresher produce, and a chance to see the market at its busiest. Our Ecuador itineraries have more travel tips.
Free things to do in Ecuador
- Walk through Quito’s Old Town: This UNESCO-listed district is packed with colonial buildings, golden churches, and lively plazas that tell Ecuador’s history.
- Shop at Otavalo Market: Browse stalls filled with traditional textiles, handmade crafts, and local artwork in one of South America’s largest markets.
- Spend a day at the beach: Ecuador’s Pacific coast has plenty of free-access beaches, whether you’re looking for quiet fishing villages or lively surf towns.
- Take in volcano views: Get a clear view of Cotopaxi’s snow-capped peak from free viewpoints in Quito and Latacunga.

Things not to miss: Train Ride, Devils Nose, Nariz Del Diablo, Ecuador © Shutterstock
Peru: $71/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍜 Food per day: $27 | 🚕 Transport: $8 | 🏨 Hotels: $51 | ✈️ Flights from US: $400-700
📅 Cheapest time to visit: October-April (rainy season)
Machu Picchu is the main draw, but Peru has plenty of history and food beyond the tourist crowds. Markets sell fresh ceviche and steaming bowls of soup for just a few dollars, and hostels in historic city centers often have character without the high price tag. Instead of tourist restaurants, try a picantería, where set lunch menus under $5 give you a taste of local flavors.
If you're planning to see several sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, a Boleto Turístico (tourist ticket) costs $40-45 and covers entrance to 16 archaeological sites and museums. It can save you more than $70 compared to paying for individual tickets.
Free things to do in Peru
- Explore San Pedro Market in Cusco: Wander through this lively market filled with traditional Andean goods, fresh produce, and local street food.
- See Barranco’s street art: Walk through Lima’s bohemian district, where colorful murals and open-air galleries bring the walls to life.
- Stroll the Miraflores boardwalk: Follow this scenic coastal path, a favorite spot for locals to walk, jog, or watch surfers in the waves below.
- Visit historic monasteries: Some of Lima’s oldest monasteries open their doors for free during select hours, and you could spend many days in Lima exploring them.

Morning sun rising with cloudy on Aden Mountain at Plaza de armas, Cusco, Peru © sharptoyou/Shutterstock
Uruguay: $85/day
💰 Budget tier: Affordable (but pricier)
🍜 Food per day: $35 | 🚕 Transport: $20 | 🏨 Hotels: $64 | ✈️ Flights from US: $600-800
📅 Cheapest time to visit: May-September (winter)
Uruguay is often overlooked, but it has plenty to explore. Punta del Este attracts luxury travelers, but better value can be found in Colonia’s historic streets or along the quieter northern coast. Beach camping is a budget-friendly option in summer, while winter visitors can find discounts at boutique hotels in Montevideo’s old town.
Renting a bike in Colonia for $5 a day is a cheap way to explore its UNESCO-listed streets. In Tacuarembó, the birthplace of tango legend Carlos Gardel, folk music gatherings (peñas) cost $10-15 and include live music, mate tea, and traditional snacks. Public hot springs in Salto cost about $15, a fraction of what private resorts charge.
Free things to do in Uruguay
- Walk Montevideo’s Rambla: Stroll along the city’s scenic coastal walkway, stretching for miles along the Río de la Plata.
- Experience Candombe drum circles: Catch spontaneous drumming sessions in Montevideo’s old neighborhoods, a rhythmic tradition with deep Afro-Uruguayan roots.
- Explore Ciudad Vieja: Wander through Montevideo’s historic district, where colonial buildings and Art Deco architecture tell the city’s story.
- Join the carnival celebrations: Uruguay’s carnival season is the longest in the world, with free street performances and lively parades.
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The Hand in the beach La Brava, Punta del Este City, Uruguay © Shutterstock
Nicaragua: $63/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍜 Food per day: $24 | 🚕 Transport: $10 | 🏨 Hotels: $33 | ✈️ Flights from US: $400-600
📅 Cheapest time to visit: May-October (green season)
With fewer tourists than its neighbors, Nicaragua has some of the best budget-friendly travel options in Central America. In San Juan del Sur and Las Peñitas, beachfront guesthouses cost $15-20 a night, a much lower price than similar stays in Costa Rica. Comedores serve large plates of gallo pinto (rice and beans) with fresh fish for just a few dollars, and chicken buses—colorful local buses—cover long distances for $2-3.
If you're staying in a colonial town, check if your hotel includes free bike rentals. Most places are bike-friendly, and it’s an easy way to explore areas that tourists often miss.
Free things to do in Nicaragua
- See Masaya Volcano at night: Visit public viewpoints to watch the glowing crater without booking a tour.
- Wander Granada’s colonial streets: Explore well-preserved Spanish-era neighborhoods, filled with colorful buildings and historic charm.
- Relax at Laguna de Apoyo: Take in the views of this volcanic crater lake, known for its clear water and lush surroundings.
- Explore Masaya Market: Browse Nicaragua’s largest artisan market, where handcrafted goods and local culture come together.
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Reserva Natural Miraflor, Nicaragua © Shutterstock
Guatemala: $58/day
💰 Budget tier: Budget friendly
🍜 Food per day: $23 | 🚕 Transport: $9 | 🏨 Hotels: $33 | ✈️ Flights from US: $350-500
📅 Cheapest time to visit: May-October (rainy season)
Guatemala gives you serious cultural bang for your buck, with ancient Mayan ruins, colonial cities, and towering volcanoes packed into one affordable destination. Skip pricey tourist shuttles and hop on a colorful chicken bus—just a few dollars covers hours of travel.
Local comedores dish out generous plates of pepián and chuchitos for $3-4, while street food like tostadas and tamales go for under a buck. Want something off the beaten path? Trek to the remote Mayan city of El Mirador ($150 for a 5-day guided hike) or explore Yaxha ($8 entry). See more ideas of how to spend your time with our Guatemala itineraries.
Free things to do in Guatemala
- Experience the markets: Wander through Chichicastenango’s bustling market, where vibrant textiles, handmade crafts, and centuries-old traditions come to life.
- Take in volcano views: From Antigua’s rooftop terraces and scenic parks, you can spot Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango towering over the landscape.
- Walk the shores of Lake Atitlán: Follow lakeside trails that link Maya villages, offering stunning views and a glimpse into local life.
- Explore colonial Antigua: Stroll the city’s cobblestone streets, where baroque churches, coffee shops, and artisan markets create a timeless charm.
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Antigua with Agua Volcano in the distance © Shutterstock
South Africa: $102/day
💰 Budget tier: Affordable (but pricier)
🍜 Food per day: $34 | 🚕 Transport: $15 | 🏨 Hotels: $94 | ✈️ Flights from US: $800-1200
📅 Cheapest time to visit: May-September (winter)
Seeing wildlife in South Africa doesn’t have to break the bank. Skip the luxury lodges and head to Kruger National Park, where a self-drive safari costs just $25 per day, and basic rest camps go for $40-60 a night.
Beyond the parks, the Garden Route is a scenic coastal drive with budget-friendly stays in Wilderness and Storms River. Cape Town has plenty of affordable experiences too—hiking Table Mountain is free, and wine tastings in Stellenbosch run about $10-15.
Free things to do in South Africa
- Table Mountain trails: Hike up Lion’s Head or explore the many free routes around Cape Town’s iconic peak.
- Hit the beach: Wander along South Africa’s stunning coastline, from Muizenberg’s colorful beach huts to Camps Bay’s dramatic shores.
- Explore Bo-Kaap: Walk through its streets, where brightly painted houses reflect the rich history of Cape Malay culture.
- Drive through wine country: Take in the breathtaking mountain views of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek—no tasting fees required.
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Kirstenbosch National park in cape town, South Africa © Shutterstock
Egypt: $19/day
💰 Budget tier: Shoestring budget
🍜 Food per day: $10 | 🚕 Transport: $3 | 🏨 Hotels: $14 | ✈️ Flights from US: $700-1000
📅 Cheapest time to visit: June-August (summer)
For history lovers on a budget, Egypt is hard to beat. Instead of splurging on a Nile cruise, take a felucca sailboat for a fraction of the price. Food per day is cheap—koshari and ta’miya (Egyptian falafel) go for just a few dollars, and hostels in less touristy areas start at $5 a night. In Cairo, budget hotels sit alongside upscale options, with international hotel chains starting at around $100 per night.
Free things to do in Egypt
- Explore Islamic Cairo: Stroll down Al-Muizz Street, where centuries-old mosques stand alongside bustling markets.
- Step into history in Coptic Cairo: Visit ancient churches and Roman ruins that tell the city’s early Christian story.
- Walk the Nile Corniche: In Cairo or Luxor, join locals for an evening walk along the river as the city lights reflect on the water.
- Catch a desert sunset: Find a free spot near the pyramids and watch the Sahara glow in the fading light.
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Colored canyon with red rocks. Egypt, desert, the Sinai Peninsula, Nuweiba, Dahab © Shutterstock
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