The region of the Americas where romance languages filter in and out of cafes and squares is affectionately known as Latin America. Visiting gives way to natural wonders of the world (think: Machu Picchu), world-wide celebrations (Carnival) and unmatched traditions in food, drink and dance.
Now, how are you supposed to afford all that?
We’ve rounded up a few helpful hints on making your trip to Latin America as budget friendly as possible so you can save on when you go, what you eat, where you stay and how you get around.
Make the dollar work for you.
Traveling to Latin America when the currency exchange is at its best will increase your chances of saving, especially on a last-minute trip. Compare rates for countries that are close to each other so you save on travel within them as well as living expenses from place to place.
Take your time.
The more time you spend on foot, talking to natives and absorbing the culture instead of rushing through cities in taxis to check off a “must-see” list, the more you’ll end up saving. Don’t let money burn a hole in your wallet by taking taxis – take advantage of the city’ public transportation system to save cash and add another experience to your list. It might take a little longer, but it’s worth it.
Go local.
Everyone touts the idea traveling like a local and not a tourist, but in order to truly follow the motto, it needs to encompass all parts of your trip. Stay with a family that rents out their guesthouse instead of spending money on a expensive accomodations – you’ll learn more about the culture, save more than you would on a chain hotel and give directly back to the local economy. Locals will also tell you the best places to eat, shop, and most importantly – the best places to avoid.
Time it just right.
Latin America is known for hosting world-class festivals all year long. These parties make the region unique, but they’re also what can make flights expensive. Do a little research on your travel dates to see if a major festival is happening at the same time. A good general rule of thumb to follow is to book 30-90 days in advance if you’re trying to score a deal for the festival, or to travel at least two weeks after a festival if you’re trying to avoid it.
Here are a few prominent celebrations to look out for on the calendar:
- Carnival
This Mardi Gras of sorts in Rio (among others) takes place right before Lent begins, which usually happens in February each year. - Semana Santa
Holy week is the most important festival in Latin America, and Peru, Chile and Columbia usually take the cake in paying homage and celebrating. Festivities take place the week before Easter, usually in March or April. - Day of the Dead
A sacred highlight on Nov 1-2 in Mexico, the Day of the Dead honors a reunion of dead relatives and their families. Expect lots of food and drink, grave decorating, burning incense, and prayers and chants for the dead. - Montezuma International Film Festival
This Costa Rican celebration of the arts is one of the biggest in South America, and happens every year in November. - World Tango Championships
At the end of August each year, all things tango come together at this comprehensive fair. Clothes, music and art inspired by the tango are displayed all over Buenos Aires, and at the end of the festival, the top tango dancers in the world perform and compete.
See more from Cheapflights’ How-to Series and check out our Top 10 Latin America Destinations.
