29. Guatemala
Guatemala is mountainous and lush with greenery, making the country a paradise for hikers, though only those in great physical shape. Hiking up the side of an active volcano is not for the fainthearted. The ruins of ancient Incan communities are open for explorers, and Lake Atitlan, the deepest in Central America, is nearby.
Coffee plantations, avocado orchards, and strawberry farms surround the lake, all welcoming visitors. Aldous Huxley compared Lake Atitlan with Italy’s Lake Como, with the former receiving higher praise. Guatemala offers hotel rooms for less than $100 per night, sometimes much less, and affordable food from restaurants, cafes, and street vendors
28. Morocco
Visitors to Tangier are frequently astonished at the city’s affordable accommodations. Situated across the straits from the citadel of Gibraltar, Tangier reflects the diverse cultures which shaped its history. The Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Berbers, Moors, Spanish, and French all contributed to the city’s culture.
In the city today, their combined influences are displayed. Modern architecture and services stand alongside Tangier’s ancient markets. Rail transportation connects with other Moroccan sites, food is diverse and affordable, and mint tea – the national drink – is available everywhere. Morocco offers an exotic destination at a remarkably low price.
27. Turkey
Though some may feel put off by political considerations, Turkey is an inexpensive and rewarding travel destination. Both the US dollar and Euro are strong against the Turkish lire, which makes enjoyment of Turkey’s cultural diversity even more affordable.
The bazaars of the towns and cities bustle with the haggling considered essential to commerce, and Turkey offers clean Mediterranean beaches for those inclined to enjoy them. Istanbul represents the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, a living link between East and West as well as the ancient and the modern, all at affordable prices for travelers.
26. Bolivia
Thanks to its geography, Bolivia is one of the most remote locations on the planet. It is also one of the most affordable. The same geography which makes travel slow and sometimes cumbersome also offers some of the most spectacular scenery found anywhere.
Lake Titicaca, the highest in elevation on earth, is a worthy destination itself. A savvy traveler can easily get by in comfort in Bolivia on less than $30 per day, sometimes much less. Air bookings to Bolivia are sparse, but entry via Peru allows travel to Lima, a well-connected international hub.
25. Thailand
Thailand has been a popular tourist destination for several years, but the surge in visitors has not rendered the Southeast Asian country overly expensive. In fact, quite the opposite is true, at least outside of Bangkok. The Chiang Mai region offers the best deals for travelers on a budget. As little as $30 per night is all it takes for a comfortable hotel room, complete with a swimming pool and other amenities.
Those who stay along the coast will find expenses higher, but not overwhelmingly so. And those who enjoy backpacking can sleep in dorms designed for their use for as little as $5 per night, surrounded by lush scenery and ancient temples.
24. Indonesia
Bali has long been well known as a popular island destination for tourists. In recent years, its reputation acquired some tarnish. Costs went up, the beaches deteriorated, and several of the island’s amenities lost some of their appeal. There are over 17,000 islands that comprise Indonesia, many of them lesser-known gems.
They also cost far less than Bali. Besides sparkling beaches, deep rainforests, and rumbling volcanoes, islands such as Java and Sumatra present visitors with South Seas recreation at an affordable cost. Though Komodo Island, home of the famous monitor lizard known as the Komodo Dragon, was closed to tourism by the government, Indonesia offers other exotic entertainment on thousands of lush locales.
23. Fiji
You can easily spend thousands of dollars on a visit to Fiji, home to resorts and expensive restaurants. But you can also spend very little. Fiji is also home to less-expensive guest houses and hostels which support a thriving backpacking community. Judicious shopping can unveil cheap airfares on Fiji Airlines.
With a little planning, Fiji offers world-class beaches, scuba diving and snorkeling, and trail-hiking with startling views. The islands, once believed to be populated by cannibals by European sailors, offer friendly accommodations for all budgets, including those on a budget.
22. Vietnam
Southeast Asia is known as an inexpensive travel destination, and Vietnam may be the cheapest in the region. A train known as the Reunification Express travels between Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Hanoi. Stops at points along the way allow visitors to experience the diverse regions, and cuisines, and the country. Intercity buses and trains connect the major cities, with prices ranging up to about $35, depending on the distance.
The cities feature fine restaurants, but street food is available everywhere, reportedly of excellent taste and quality. In Hanoi, local beer is available for about a quarter per glass. Including travel and lodging once in the country, enjoying the sights and sounds of Vietnam costs less than $35 per day.
21. Myanmar
Visitors to Myanmar should expect some challenges moving about the country, but its affordability makes a visit worthwhile. Bicyclists, hikers, and those willing to travel by intercity buses can tour the country at less than $30 per day. Sights include the Bagan Temples, the Mandalay Palace, and Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. The Golden Rock, a Buddhist pilgrimage, features the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda perched atop a granite boulder covered in gold leaf.
Women must view it from a lower courtyard; the inner sanctuary is open to men only. The people welcome visitors throughout Myanmar, a country of dramatic landscapes and hidden temples.
20. India
Culturally diverse India offers overnight accommodations in guest houses for as little as $15 per night. Even hotels in some cities offer overnight stays in the $20 range. Food is cheap and plentiful in the cities and towns, though high-priced options appear in the larger communities. India’s many such contrasts appeal to some; others find it disconcerting. Slums and luxury accommodations exist side-by-side.
The country’s extensive rail network provides connections to all points, priced by class. Rail prices average about $10 per 100 miles for second-class tickets. Often called an acquired taste, India either impresses with its culture or appalls with its poverty.
19. Nepal
Visitors to Kathmandu sleep at the foot of the towering Himalayan Mountains for as little as $20 in hotels. Guest houses offer rooms for far less, often $5 per night. Food and drink are equally inexpensive. Thukpa, a noodle soup and Himalayan specialty served with rice, provides a meal for less than $3.
Travel between cities and towns is by bus, affordable, and reliable. Hiking in the mountains is available, with both guided and self-guided tours. The latter find support in tea rooms along the trails, which offer refreshment and information for hikers. Nepal is affordable at less than $25 per day for food, shelter, and expenses.
18. Sri Lanka
The island nation of Sri Lanka boasts the highest per capita income of the nations of South Asia. Yet travel on the island is affordable. Touring the sights of Sri Lanka costs less than $30 per day for the budget-minded, with hotel rooms available for less than $20 per night.
Buses and trains crisscross the island, with fares typically less than $2. Sri Lanka offers mountainous terrain, long and wide, sandy beaches on the Indian Ocean, and the cultures of many peoples. The Moors, Sinhalese, Tamils, Malays, Chinese, and native Veddas, all left their mark on Sri Lanka’s history and culture, reflected in the island’s traditions and architecture.
17. Ecuador
Ecuador offers visitors views of the Andes Mountains, rainforests, open-air markets in towns and cities, and the Galapagos Islands. Other than for the latter, travel about Ecuador is easy and cheap. Even in Quito, the capital and largest city (and most expensive), three meals per day cost less than $25 for those on a budget.
Hotel rooms in three-star are under $40, and hostels are far cheaper at less than $15 per night. Visiting the Galapagos Islands is more expensive, with costs starting at over $100 per day and rising when using water transportation to tour the archipelago.
16. Argentina
Argentina, and its capital, Buenos Aires, have the reputation of being dangerous destinations. As of this writing, the United States State Department lists Argentina with a Level 1 Travel Advisory, which calls for “Normal Precautions.” Travel in Argentina is inexpensive, though guided tours are pricey. In the cities, local bus transportation costs less than 50 cents. Buenos Aires offers parillas where a steak dinner with a glass of wine is less than $15.
In smaller towns, it’s even less. The Patagonia region offers Argentine National Parks (some with entry fees), old-growth forests, and glaciers. In Patagonia, not all lodgings are open year-round. Some advance planning is necessary to take advantage of what Argentina offers to travelers on a budget.
15. Cuba
Cheap airfares offered by US carriers to Havana are common, where the equivalent of an American three-star hotel costs about $50 per night. Hostels and the Cuban equivalent of Airbnb are available for much less. Accommodations outside of Havana are substantially cheaper.
In Havana, car buffs can rent classic American automobiles for a few hours for about $20. One can eat at government-operated restaurants for less than $1. At a privately-owned restaurant, a full meal including dessert and drink is less than $7. Old Havana thrives with free tourist attractions. Cuba is one of the cheapest travel destinations in the western hemisphere.
14. Mexico
Mexico accommodates expensive luxury travel as well as those who wish to visit without breaking the bank. For the latter, Mexico offers intercity transportation by buses, with fares from $10-$25 depending on destination. In the cities, taxi collectivos, cabs shared by several riders, are common and cheap. Street food varies in quality, but eating where the locals eat ensures good food at the lowest price.
Backpackers can enjoy Mexico for as little as $20 per day, including a bed for the night in a hostel or dorm room. As with all countries, the larger cities are more expensive, and luxury costs more than simplicity, but Mexico is cheap enough for those on a tight budget.
13. Russia
Though controversial and intimidating to Westerners, Russia is an affordable vacation destination. Moscow offers museums displaying the relics of its side of the Cold War (and World War II), reachable through its subway system. Known as the Metro, the Russian subway features museums for stations, and rides for the equivalent of 50 cents.
Meals are found for as little as five dollars through judicious shopping. The Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, which includes the Winter Palace of the Tsars, houses one of the greatest art collections in the world. A visit to Russia requires a visa, which is expensive, but once in the country, it’s surprisingly affordable.
12. Pakistan
Officially, the United States Department of State regards Pakistan as a high-risk travel destination. On its website it lists the country under Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Those who venture to Pakistan find it can be easily traveled for as little as $15 per day. Most of that is for lodgings and travel, meals are less than $4 per day.
Numerous websites report on the friendliness of the Pakistanis, particularly towards Americans. Interurban transportation is affordable, and street food is found in open markets and from independent vendors throughout the country. Pakistan offers adventurous and affordable travel for those willing to take the necessary precautions.
11. Taiwan
Taiwan is one of the most densely populated nations on the planet, with cities’ streets teeming with people. Yet just outside them, reachable through urban transportation, is mountainous terrain nearly abandoned to nature. Taiwan offers several dramatic waterfalls, including Hudie Waterfall, near Taichung, and Shifen Waterfall just outside of Taipei.
Hostels cost between $10 and $25 per night, food is equally inexpensive, and transportation options are many. Mass transit systems are accessible from the many national parks, most of which require no fee for entry. Taiwan’s rail system is affordable and reliable and includes high-speed rail between the major cities.
10. Panama
On its Caribbean coastline, Panama offers pristine, sandy beaches gently lapped with the clear waters of the region. On its opposite coast, the Pacific comes ashore with waves challenging surfers of all skill levels. In between there are sights which include active and inactive volcanoes, biologically diverse rainforests, and thriving cities.
The official currency in Panama is the US dollar, and though many find the country expensive to travel through, there are cheaper options found everywhere. Lodgings are available for as little as $10, and meals in local restaurants for as little as $6 or $7. The use of mass transit helps keep expenses down for the budget-minded, avoiding the tour groups which drive up costs.
9. Peru
One of the least expensive places to travel in South America, Peru is home to the Incan ruins at Machu Pichu, rainforests, deserts, and sweeping beaches. It is easily explored by budget-minded travelers for less than $30 per day. Most restaurants offer set menus for lunch and dinner, with prices as low as $2 including beverages.
Travel throughout the country by bus is common and affordable, and in cities, taxis seldom exceed $3 for a ride. Peru offers dramatic mountain scenery, lush jungles and rainforests, and the opportunity to swim with dolphins along the coastline. It also offers the Surfer Beach at Huanchaco, one of just five International Surfer Reserves in the world.
8. Ethiopia
The US State Department advises travelers to “exercise increased caution” while visiting Ethiopia and recommends avoiding the border area. Especially troublesome is the borders with Somalia, Kenya, and Sudan. Those who venture to the African nation find more than reasonable costs incurred for lodgings and food. In Gondar, the former home of the Emperor, $5 gains entry to the ruins of imperial castles and homes.
You can spend as little as $10 for hotel rooms, and a cup of locally grown coffee runs less than 50 cents. Vegetarian meals (common on religious fasting days) are around $3 throughout the country. Those with meat are about a dollar more.
7. Egypt
Egypt’s tourism industry has suffered from civil unrest for the last several years. It, too, is under a Level 2 travel advisory from the State Department, which urges increased caution. The result is slashed prices for tourists and travelers at all levels. Virtually all travel services in Egypt are negotiable, and the shortage of tourists places them at an advantage when seeking services.
Touring the Pyramids at Giza costs less than $10, and street food and restaurant meals are plentiful and inexpensive. Uber is available in Egyptian cities and offers a cheaper alternative to taxis while avoiding language issues during negotiations.
6. Macedonia
The ancient Balkan nation of Macedonia is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Europe. Throughout the country, meals, including a beer or glass of local wine, average around $5. A full dinner for two, including appetizers and dessert, is usually less than $15. Hotel costs are similarly inexpensive. No more than $20 is all that is needed for a room for two, including a private bathroom.
Hostels are much cheaper. Attractions including hiking trails, parks, wineries, museums, and others are usually free, or available so cheaply they may as well be free. Macedonia offers both Western-style shopping and Ottoman Bazaars, and freshwater beaches on Lake Ohrid. The lake is one of the deepest and largest in Europe and since 1979 a World Heritage Site.
5. Albania
A portion of the Albanian coastline on the Ionian Sea is known as the Albanian Riviera. While considerably more expensive than the rest of the country, it remains an affordable alternative to other Mediterranean region beaches and resorts. Albania offers inland beaches as well, on lakes in the interior, where average cost for lodgings is around $30 per night for two. Food is equally affordable, less than $10 for dinner.
In areas where tourism is still under development, costs are even lower. Borsh, the largest beach on the Ionian Sea, offers rooms in small hotels and hostels for less than $30 during peak seasons and even less during the off months.
4. Ukraine
With its reputation for crime and corruption and ongoing civil unrest, Ukraine rates as a country where travelers should exercise increased caution by the US State Department. Traveling in Ukraine is cheap for any budget. Overnight train travel, including a bed, from Odessa to Kiev is as little as $5. Meals in Kiev, even in the most luxurious restaurants, are affordable, and seldom more than $10 to $15.
Hotel accommodations in the cities are around $20 dollars, and in many cases include a full breakfast. The State Department advises travelers to avoid the Crimea and Donetsk regions, and to take shelter during demonstrations, which are frequent. For those exercising caution, Kiev offers some of the most affordable travel options in Europe.
3. Greece
Travelers who book in advance can obtain hotel rooms in central Athens for as little as $25 during the season between late fall and early spring. Access to the ruins of the Acropolis and other sites up to a total of six costs around $30. Meals and street food, especially gyros, are cheap throughout the city and its outlying region. Hostels and dorms offer inexpensive accommodations for those traveling alone.
Tavernas present both set meals and menus offering options to potential diners at affordable prices. During the offseason, Greece is practically devoid of tourists, and prices that are higher in the summer are frequently negotiable for those visiting during the winter months.
2. Estonia
Estonia is a travel destination that offers free Wi-Fi throughout the country, on buses between the cities, in urban parks and gathering places, and in businesses. Using it while traveling can help find terrific bargains. In Tallinn, the capital, about $10 to $12 per day is a reasonable food budget. It can be brought down even further by purchasing already cooked full meals in markets and shops.
Public transportation offers unlimited rides for about a dollar a day in Tallinn. Entry to various public sites seldom exceeds $5, and many are free. In all, Estonia costs less than $30 per day to enjoy the architecture, scenery, and history it offers.
1. South Africa
South Africa’s diversity is displayed to visitors through the range of activities they may enjoy. Wineries offer their products for consumption and tours of their facilities. For those so inclined safaris are available. Snow skiing is available year-round at Tiffendell Ski Resort.
In South Africa, a rented car costs about $20 per day, including insurance, and can be used as a sleeping accommodation at rest camps. Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest in the world, is home to every primate species in South Africa, as well as a diverse range of avian life. South Africa is both affordable and expensive depending upon the interests and tastes of the traveler.