Backpacking South America: A 30-Day Adventure Plan

Backpacking South America is a dream come true for many adventurous travelers. With its diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and wallet-friendly destinations, South America offers the perfect balance of thrills, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re trekking the Andes, wandering colonial towns, or soaking in tropical beaches, this continent has something for everyone.

This 30-day South America itinerary is tailored for budget-conscious travelers who want to see and experience as much as possible without rushing through it all. This flexible route covers the highlights, includes travel tips, and helps you make the most of your time while backpacking South America.

Why Backpack South America?

From the towering peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon Rainforest and the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, South America is a continent of contrasts. For backpackers, it offers:

• Low cost of travel compared to Europe or North America

• A well-established backpacker trail with great hostels and transport links

• Deep cultural heritage and warm, welcoming locals

• Incredible nature, including deserts, mountains, jungles, and beaches

Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, a 30-day South America backpacking route is enough to experience a good mix of countries and cultures, all on a reasonable budget.

What to Know Before You Go

Before you set out on your 30-day adventure, there are a few key things to consider:

Visas & Entry Requirements
Most travelers can enter countries like Peru, Colombia, Chile, and Argentina visa-free for up to 90 days. However, always check individual country requirements based on your nationality.

Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May–September) is best for countries like Peru and Bolivia, especially for treks like the Inca Trail. December to March is great for Patagonia, but other areas may experience rain.

Safety Tips
South America is generally safe for backpackers, but stay cautious in big cities. Avoid flashing valuables, use trusted transportation, and learn basic local phrases.

Money
Carry a combination of cash (USD often accepted) and debit/credit cards. ATMs are available, but withdrawal fees can be high.

Essential Packing List for South America

Backpacking means packing light. Here’s a must-have list for your 30-day trip:

• A good quality backpack (40–50L)

• Daypack for hikes and city exploration

• Layers: lightweight clothes + warm jacket (Andes are cold!)

• Hiking shoes/sandals

• Refillable water bottle

• Travel insurance (non-negotiable)

• Power adapter (varies by country)

• Spanish phrasebook or translation app

• Copy of passport and travel documents

Packing light gives you freedom and reduces the stress of carrying too much while hopping between cities and countries.

The 30-Day Itinerary: Country-by-Country Breakdown

This sample itinerary includes five amazing countries and is designed to be efficient, thrilling, and budget-friendly.

Days 1–5: Colombia (Bogotá & Medellín)

• Fly into Bogotá, Colombia’s lively capital. Explore La Candelaria, hike Monserrate, and try ajiaco soup.

• Bus or fly to Medellín. Visit Comuna 13, ride the cable cars, and explore coffee country nearby.

• Accommodation: Hostels start at $8–12 USD per night.

Days 6–10: Ecuador (Quito & Baños)

• Fly or bus to Quito. Wander the Old Town and visit Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World).

• Head to Baños for adventure activities whitewater rafting, canyoning, and hiking to waterfalls.

• Transportation: Long-distance buses are cheap and reliable.

• Pro tip: Try local street food for $2–3 meals.

Days 11–17: Peru (Cusco & Machu Picchu)

• Bus to Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Spend a few days acclimating and exploring ruins like Sacsayhuamán.

• Do the Inca Trail (book in advance), the Salkantay Trek, or take a train to Machu Picchu.

• Explore the Sacred Valley, including Ollantaytambo and Pisac.

• Budget tip: Many treks include meals and gear.

Days 18–23: Bolivia (La Paz, Uyuni)

• Bus to La Paz, the world’s highest capital. Ride the cable cars, visit the Witches’ Market, and take a death road bike tour.

• Head to Uyuni for the world-famous Salt Flats. Join a 3-day jeep tour through surreal desert landscapes.

• Meals and accommodation often included in the salt flats tour.

Days 24–30: Argentina (Salta & Buenos Aires)

• Cross into Argentina and explore the charming colonial city of Salta. Visit local vineyards and red rock valleys.

• Take a night bus or budget flight to Buenos Aires for tango, steak, and street art.

• Stay in lively Palermo or San Telmo neighborhoods.

Top Budget Tips for Backpackers

1. Stay in dorms or budget guesthouses – Prices range from $7 to $20 per night.
2. Eat local – Markets and street stalls offer authentic meals for under $5.
3. Use night buses – Save on both time and accommodation.
4. Travel with others – Share taxis or group tours to cut costs.
5. Haggle (politely) – Especially at markets and with local tour providers.

With smart planning, it’s easy to travel South America on a budget without missing out on key experiences.

Transportation and Border Crossing Tips

Getting around South America is straightforward if you plan ahead.

• Long-distance buses: Comfortable, affordable, and often include snacks or meals.

• Budget airlines: LATAM, Sky Airline, and JetSMART often offer cheap flights.

• Border crossings: Always check visa rules in advance, and avoid unofficial taxis near borders.

• Local transport: Use colectivos (shared taxis) and metro systems in big cities.

Apps like Rome2Rio can help map out connections and give rough cost estimates.

Cultural Etiquette and Language Hacks

While you don’t need to be fluent in Spanish, learning a few basic phrases goes a long way. In Brazil, Portuguese is spoken, but Spanish helps elsewhere.

Cultural etiquette tips:

• Greet people with a handshake or cheek kiss (varies by region).

• Dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites.

• Respect Indigenous traditions and ask permission before taking photos.

Locals appreciate when travelers try to engage with the language and customs even a little effort creates big connection.

Final Thoughts:

Backpacking South America in 30 days is a fast-paced, unforgettable journey. This itinerary is just a guide feel free to swap out destinations, slow down, or dive deeper based on your interests. The beauty of backpacking lies in its flexibility, spontaneity, and the connections you make along the way.

From ancient ruins and bustling cities to jungle treks and highland vistas, this continent offers endless variety. With thoughtful planning and an adventurous spirit, you can explore breathtaking destinations while keeping costs low and spirits high.