60-Day Budget South America Itinerary: Bogotá to Buenos Aires (2026-04-01 to 2026-05-30)

Bogotá, Colombia · Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Arrival and budget setup in Bogotá

Morning:

Start your first morning by exchanging a small amount of cash and buying a SIM at Parque de la 93 or a nearby mobile shop, then grab a cheap, hear...

Afternoon:

Ease into Bogotá by heading to Parque Simón Bolívar for a relaxed people-watching stroll and to scout cheap street food stalls selling arepas and ...

Evening:

As the city cools, wander to Plaza de Bolívar to watch the light change on the cathedral and pick up cheap empanadas from nearby vendors, then hea...

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Bogotá, Colombia · Thursday, April 2, 2026

Explore La Candelaria and local markets

Morning:

Begin your morning wandering the colorful streets of La Candelaria, stopping for a cheap breakfast of caldo and fresh fruit at the bustling food s...

Afternoon:

After a morning in La Candelaria, wander uphill to discover the vibrant artisan stalls at Mercado de las Pulgas de San Alejo, where you can haggle...

Evening:

As dusk falls, head to Plaza del Chorro de Quevedo's nearby lanes to catch live street music at small bars and sample cheap arepa de chócolo from ...

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Medellín, Colombia · Friday, April 3, 2026

Bus to Medellín; settle into a budget hostel

Morning:

Board an early budget bus from Bogotá's Terminal de Transporte Salitre and arrive in Medellín mid-morning; drop your pack at a wallet-friendly hos...

Afternoon:

After dropping your bag, explore the nearby neighborhood by catching a colectivo to Parque de los Deseos for people-watching and cheap street-food...

Evening:

Once settled, head to Parque de la 70 for a lively, budget-friendly evening where street vendors sell grilled arepas and empanadas while locals mi...

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Medellín, Colombia · Saturday, April 4, 2026

City highlights: Comuna 13 and Botanical Garden

Morning:

Start early with a local breakfast of calentado and aguardiente-free coffee at Parque de Laureles, then hop on the metro to explore the colorful o...

Afternoon:

After the morning murals and the botanical calm, take a short metro ride to Parque de los Pies Descalzos to stroll barefoot paths and watch local ...

Evening:

As the sun sets, take a short metro ride to Parque Bolívar (La Candelaria) in Envigado for a lively local plaza atmosphere and affordable street s...

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Cartagena, Colombia · Sunday, April 5, 2026

Cheap travel to Cartagena; evening in the old town

Morning:

Catch an early budget bus or shared van into Cartagena and drop your bag at a wallet-friendly hostel near Getsemaní before fueling up with a cheap...

Afternoon:

After settling in Getsemaní, wander toward Plaza Fernández Madrid to watch local life and grab a budget-friendly empanada from a street cart, then...

Evening:

As twilight settles, take a leisurely stroll along the ramparts toward Plaza de los Coches to watch street performers and sample skewered seafood ...

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Cartagena, Colombia · Monday, April 6, 2026

Beach day and budget seafood

Morning:

Start the morning catching the local colectivo to Playa La Boquilla for a relaxed beachfront walk and a chance to watch traditional fishing boats ...

Afternoon:

Head from Getsemaní to Playa Castillo Grande for a calmer afternoon swim and affordable seafood plates at family-run kiosks along the sand; rent a...

Evening:

As the sun dips, head to Plaza de la Aduana to watch light spill on colonial facades while grabbing inexpensive grilled shrimp from a nearby stree...

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On the road (overnight bus) · Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Overnight bus to Quito

Morning:

Wake early to catch a pre-departure breakfast at Parque Nacional Fontibón's nearby street stalls-a simple caldo and sweet arepa will keep you goin...

Afternoon:

Before boarding, linger at Terminal de Transporte de Bogotá's food court to pick up empanadas and a thermos of coffee, then take a short walk to *...

Evening:

Before boarding the overnight coach, grab a quick, affordable dinner at Plaza de Mercado de las Ferias where stalls serve hearty caldo and empanad...

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Quito, Ecuador · Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Arrival and acclimatization in Quito

Morning:

After arriving and dropping your pack, ease into high altitude with a gentle walk and light breakfast of humitas and mate de coca at **Mercado Central...

Afternoon:

After a gentle morning, head to Parque El Ejido to sit among local artisans and watch impromptu street performances while sipping a cheap fresh ju...

Evening:

As the sun softens, wander to Parque La Carolina for an easy lakeside stroll and watch locals play fútbol while sampling empanadas and mote from n...

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Quito, Ecuador · Thursday, April 9, 2026

Old Town walking tour and local eats

Morning:

Ease into the morning with a relaxed paseo through Plaza Grande, pausing to admire the presidential palace façade before heading into nearby lanes...

Afternoon:

After the morning tour, wander down to Plaza de la Independencia to soak in the colonial atmosphere and then follow the cobbled streets toward **I...

Evening:

As twilight falls, wander the quieter lanes toward Plazoleta del Teatro for street performers and an inexpensive plate of llapingachos at a nearby...

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Baños, Ecuador · Friday, April 10, 2026

Budget bus to Baños; hot springs evening

Morning:

Board an early budget bus from the terminal and arrive in Baños mid-morning, then drop your pack at a cheap hostel near Calle Montalvo and fuel up...

Afternoon:

After returning from the Pailón del Diablo ride, wander the quieter streets toward Parque Vicente León, where locals relax and you can sample inex...

Evening:

After freshening up, wander to Plaza del Agua to watch locals gather and sip a cheap canelazo from a nearby street stall before finding a modest r...

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Baños, Ecuador · Saturday, April 11, 2026

Adventure day: waterfalls and cheap activities

Morning:

Rise early and join a budget colectivo toward the lesser-known cascade trail at Manto de la Novia for a brisk 30-45 minute hike through cloud-frin...

Afternoon:

After a morning of Manto de la Novia and the coffee finca, take a budget colectivo to El Salado Waterfall for a short hike and cliffside viewpoint...

Evening:

After rinsing off from the day's hikes, stroll to Plaza Principal de Baños to watch locals gather and pick up an affordable snack of roasted corn ...

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On the road (Ecuador → Peru) · Sunday, April 12, 2026

Bus toward Peru; border crossing day

Morning:

Leave Baños early and pick up a shared shuttle at Terminal Terrestre de Baños bound for the highland border town of Macará, stopping en route ...

Afternoon:

After morning formalities, pause the journey with a stretch and snack stop at Centro Comercial Ambato Norte where inexpensive empanadas and arroz ...

Evening:

After clearing border formalities, relax your legs with a slow-paced stop at Plaza de Armas de Macará to watch local evening market life and buy i...

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Trujillo region, Peru · Monday, April 13, 2026

Arrival in Piura/Trujillo area and rest

Morning:

After an overnight journey from Ecuador, ease into the morning with a slow breakfast of fresh fruit, pan con chicharrón or tamal at **Mercado Central ...

Afternoon:

After a gentle morning, head to the coastal quarter and stroll the shaded promenade at Playa El Golfito where local families picnic-stop at a beac...

Evening:

As dusk settles, wander to Parque El Recreo's quieter side paths to watch locals play fútbol and pick up inexpensive anticuchos from a nearby stre...

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Trujillo, Peru · Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Explore Trujillo ruins and markets

Morning:

Rise early for a guided visit to the pre-Columbian coastal complex of Huacas del Sol y de la Luna to walk among adobe pyramids and learn about Moc...

Afternoon:

Wander the colonial-to-coastal transition by taking a short combi to Huanchaco Pier, watch traditional reed fishermen (caballitos de totora) bring...

Evening:

As dusk falls, drift toward Plaza de Armas (Trujillo) to watch the colonial facades glow and grab a cheap anticucho or tamal from the bustling foo...

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Lima, Peru · Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Budget bus to Lima; evening in Miraflores

Morning:

Arrive mid-morning and drop your pack at a budget hostel near Plaza San Martín, then refuel with a cheap but hearty breakfast of pan con chicharró...

Afternoon:

After dropping your pack, head to Parque Kennedy to watch street artisans and cat-friendly benches before strolling the nearby artisan markets for...

Evening:

After a day on the road, settle into Miraflores with a relaxed paseo through Parque Raimondi, then follow locals down to the oceanfront promenade ...

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Lima, Peru · Thursday, April 16, 2026

Local food markets and free museums

Morning:

Start the morning with a flavorful stroll through Mercado Surquillo, sampling cheap anticuchos, fresh chorreadas and seasonal fruit from stall ven...

Afternoon:

Wander a short taxi or colectivo to Barrio Chino to sample cheap dim sum plates and street-style sanguches at old-family puestos, then follow with...

Evening:

As twilight falls, wander to Parque de la Cultura (Barranco) to catch local buskers and sunset views over the Rimac River, then stroll the nearby ...

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Paracas, Peru · Friday, April 17, 2026

Overnight to Paracas; budget boat to Ballestas

Morning:

Wake early after the overnight bus and head straight to Puerto Paracas to book a last-minute shared boat to the islands, then grab a simple desayu...

Afternoon:

After a morning at Playa Roja, wander the small harbor area and hire a shared kayak or paddleboard from a family-run booth near *Muelle Pesquero...

Evening:

After your afternoon paddling and picnic, wander into town to catch sunset colors from Playa El Chaco's quieter stretch, then head to the lively w...

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Huacachina, Peru · Saturday, April 18, 2026

Bus to Huacachina and sandboarding

Morning:

Catch an early bus into Ica and drop your pack at a budget hospedaje near Plaza de Armas de Ica, then stroll to Bodega Tacama for a low-cost v...

Afternoon:

After the morning desert adrenaline, stroll into town to cool off with fresh juices at Plaza de Ica's shaded kiosks, then join a small local opera...

Evening:

As dusk falls, stroll to Calle Huarango for casual eats at modest rotisserie stalls and try a local causa or anticuchos with backpackers at cheap ...

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Arequipa, Peru · Sunday, April 19, 2026

Long-distance bus to Arequipa

Morning:

Arrive in Arequipa mid-morning and drop your pack at a budget-friendly alojamiento near Plaza de Armas (Arequipa), then head straight for a comfor...

Afternoon:

After settling in and grabbing supplies, take a short colectivo to Mirador de Yanahuara for a relaxed panoramic view of the volcanoes and the city...

Evening:

After a day on the road, unwind with a twilight paseo through Calle Mercaderes' quieter side streets to spot local snack vendors and a simple plat...

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Arequipa/Colca Canyon, Peru · Monday, April 20, 2026

Colca Canyon day trip on a budget

Morning:

Catch an early colectivo from Arequipa's Terminal Terrestre toward Colca and stop at the small village of Chivay to stash gear in a cheap lock...

Afternoon:

After the morning rim hike, wander down into the canyon via the footpath toward the small hamlet of Yanque where you can refill water and enjoy a ...

Evening:

After returning toward the rim, unwind with a sunset stroll through the small plaza at Yanque where local vendors sell freshly made mote and sweet...

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Puno, Peru · Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Bus to Puno; lake-side markets

Morning:

Arrive in Puno mid-morning and ease into the altiplano rhythm with a warming desayuno of tostada and coca tea at Café Don Santiago, then drop your...

Afternoon:

After a lakeside morning, wander the artisan lanes by Plaza Villeda, where vendors sell handwoven aguayos and alpaca scarves you can haggle for wh...

Evening:

As twilight settles, wander toward Plaza de la Constitución to watch locals gather and sample cheap picarones and roasted corn from nearby stalls,...

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Lake Titicaca, Peru · Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Uros & Taquile islands (budget tour)

Morning:

Rise with a gentle lakeside stroll to Playa Chucuito for a cheap cup of coca tea from a street stall, then catch a shared lancha from **Muelle de ...

Afternoon:

Disembark on Taquile Island and follow the stone steps up through terraced fields to the cooperative-run weaving workshops, where you can watch ma...

Evening:

As daylight softens, drift to Playa Bolivar (Puno waterfront) to watch the sunset paint the reed-lined shore and pick up cheap llama-bone or texti...

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Cusco, Peru · Thursday, April 23, 2026

Overnight to Cusco; acclimatization

Morning:

Arrive in Cusco and take the morning slowly with a gentle paseo through Plaza Regocijo before dropping your pack at a budget hospedaje near **Aven...

Afternoon:

Ease into the highlands with a slow, scenic walk through the sunlit terraces at Sacsayhuamán outskirts (a short colectivo from the center) to admi...

Evening:

As night falls, wander the quieter lanes toward Plaza San Francisco to watch local life and pick up an inexpensive tamal or empanada from a street...

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Cusco, Peru · Friday, April 24, 2026

Cusco highlights and cheap local markets

Morning:

Wake up gently and head to Mercado de San Blas for a budget breakfast of fresh fruit, tamales and a steaming cup of coca tea while watching local ...

Afternoon:

After a relaxed morning, wander up to Plaza San Blas's artisan alleys to watch woodcarvers and painters at work and pick up an affordable hand-pai...

Evening:

As twilight settles, wander to Plazoleta San Francisco for lively street music and affordable anticuchos from nearby carts, then follow locals tow...

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Sacred Valley, Peru · Saturday, April 25, 2026

Budget day trip: Sacred Valley by colectivo

Morning:

Catch an early colectivo from Cusco toward the valley and hop off in Pisac to wander the hilltop terraces and explore the lively artisan market be...

Afternoon:

After exploring Ollantaytambo's streets in the morning, catch a short colectivo to Moray to wander the concentric agricultural terraces and learn ...

Evening:

As dusk falls, head to Chinchero's central plaza to watch traditional weaving demonstrations by local cooperatives and buy an affordable handwoven...

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Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), Peru · Sunday, April 26, 2026

Short train/bus to Aguas Calientes for Machu Picchu

Morning:

Board an early scenic train or hop a budget colectivo-bus combo from Ollantaytambo toward the Urubamba Valley, pausing at the roadside viewpoint b...

Afternoon:

After a restorative morning soak, meander along the riverbank to Plaza Manco Capac Gardens for a relaxed picnic and people-watching, then stroll u...

Evening:

As twilight falls, wander to Plaza Manco Kapac to join locals and travelers sampling street-side snacks and small pitcher cocktails, then follow t...

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Machu Picchu / Cusco, Peru · Monday, April 27, 2026

Early visit to Machu Picchu; return to Cusco

Morning:

Rise predawn to catch the first shuttle up to Machu Picchu Gate and enter with the morning mist, following a quiet loop that takes you past the le...

Afternoon:

After the morning return to Aguas Calientes, stroll the riverfront to relax at the botanical paths of Mandor Gardens-look for hummingbirds at ...

Evening:

After returning to town, unwind with a leisurely riverside stroll to Plaza Manco Kapac and grab an affordable plate of trout at the family-run **P...

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On the road to Bolivia · Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Bus toward Juliaca/Puno and onward to La Paz

Morning:

Board an early interprovincial bus and plan a scenic mid-morning stop at Abra La Raya to stretch and admire the highland pass views while buying w...

Afternoon:

Midday, pause the journey for a leg-stretch and cheap lunch at Plaza de Armas (Juliaca) where street vendors sell caldo de gallina and grilled tro...

Evening:

As the altiplano dusk settles, stop for a warming dinner at the bustling roadside comedor near Plaza de Armas (Puno's outskirts) to try affordable...

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La Paz, Bolivia · Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Arrival and markets in La Paz

Morning:

Arrive mid-morning and ground yourself in the city's pulse with a warming bowl of sopa at Mercado Lanza, then stash your pack at a budget hostel n...

Afternoon:

Ease into La Paz by heading to the lively food stalls and handicraft corridors of Mercado Lanza, sampling budget-friendly salteñas and fresh fruit...

Evening:

As twilight falls, head to Mercado Lanza's lesser-known lanes toward the riverside to catch a bustling evening market vibe, sampling cheap skewere...

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La Paz, Bolivia · Thursday, April 30, 2026

Valley of the Moon and city cable cars

Morning:

Begin with a calm uphill stroll through the otherworldly rock formations of Valle de las Animas (a quieter alternative to the more touristy moonsc...

Afternoon:

After a morning in the surreal ridges, descend to the riverside barrios and take a ride on the Teleférico (yellow line) toward the artsy district ...

Evening:

As dusk deepens, wander the lively food stalls and artisan booths around Plaza 10 de Febrero (El Alto market extension) to sample affordable antic...

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Uyuni, Bolivia · Friday, May 1, 2026

Bus to Uyuni; overnight in Uyuni

Morning:

Board an early regional bus from Terminal de Transporte de Oruro (or the local colectivo point if you left La Paz late) and enjoy dramatic altipla...

Afternoon:

After the Cementerio de Trenes visit, wander into town to explore the bustling craft market at Mercado Central de Uyuni for cheap alpaca scarves a...

Evening:

After stashing bags, wander to Avenida Ferroviaria for an affordable sunset stroll and pick up grilled trout skewers from a family-run carrito nea...

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Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia · Saturday, May 2, 2026

Salt flats budget tour (day trip)

Morning:

Begin before dawn with a shared 4x4 pickup from Plaza Isabel and head straight to the sunrise mirror at Ojos de Sal, where the glassy salt cre...

Afternoon:

After the morning mirror shots, head inland to explore the geometric salt patterns around Isla Incahuasi-climb its coral-cactus grove for panorami...

Evening:

As the sun dips, head to Tunupa Village on the salar's edge to watch the horizon turn pink while sampling simple, local potato dishes at a family-...

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San Pedro de Atacama, Chile · Sunday, May 3, 2026

Cross into northern Chile; San Pedro arrival

Morning:

After crossing the border, arrive mid-morning and drop your pack at a budget hostal before stretching your legs with a slow wander through **Plaza de ...

Afternoon:

Wander the sun-baked lanes toward Pukará de Quitor for an easy, budget-friendly climb through ancient ruins and sweeping valley views, then cool o...

Evening:

As night falls, wander to Plaza de San Pedro to soak up the laid-back salt-flat-town vibe and pick up an affordable empanada or sopaipilla from th...

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San Pedro de Atacama, Chile · Monday, May 4, 2026

Valley and geysers on a budget tour

Morning:

Wake early and catch a shared minivan from Plaza de San Pedro out toward the high desert, stopping first at the photogenic salt-encrusted terraces...

Afternoon:

After returning to lower elevations, pedal or hop a cheap colectivo out to the salt-encrusted wetlands at Salar de Aguas Calientes to watch flamin...

Evening:

After the afternoon sights, wander into the quieter lanes toward Calle Toconao for a modest comedor dinner of roasted llama or vegetarian machas, ...

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La Serena area, Chile · Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Long-distance bus to La Serena/Coquimbo region

Morning:

Arrive mid-morning after the overnight ride and stretch your legs with a brisk paseo along Avenida del Mar, stopping at the low-cost kiosks by **P...

Afternoon:

After arriving and dropping your pack, wander the shaded avenues toward Jardín del Corazón for a relaxed stroll among fountains and pick up a chea...

Evening:

After settling in, wander down to Avenida del Mar (southern promenade) to catch the golden light and sample street-style mariscos from family-run ...

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La Serena, Chile · Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Beaches and observatory visits (budget options)

Morning:

Stroll the quieter stretch of Playa Cuatro Esquinas at first light, rent an inexpensive bodyboard from a family-run kiosk and watch local fisherme...

Afternoon:

Walk the family-friendly stretch of Playa La Herradura for a relaxed swim and rent an affordable paddleboard from a shoreline vendor, then head to...

Evening:

As dusk falls, wander down to Caleta Hornos for a relaxed seafood parrillada at family-run stalls overlooking the harbour, then stroll the nearby ...

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Valparaíso, Chile · Thursday, May 7, 2026

Bus down to Valparaíso; street art and cheap eats

Morning:

Arrive after the coastal bus and begin your morning with a coffee and a marraqueta sandwich at Café Turri before heading to the colorful hillside ...

Afternoon:

After your mural-filled morning, wander the lesser-trod lanes toward Museo a Cielo Abierto de San Miguel, where large-scale outdoor works sit besi...

Evening:

As twilight deepens, follow the coastal lanes to Playa Ancha Promenade for sweeping harbour lights, then stop at the lively food stalls around **P...

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Viña del Mar, Chile · Friday, May 8, 2026

Explore Viña del Mar and local beaches

Morning:

Start your morning with a relaxed paseo and cheap café con leche at the seaside promenade near Playa Acapulco, then stroll the pebble shore toward...

Afternoon:

Stroll the palm-lined esplanade to Castillo Wulff for coastal views and a low-cost visit to its small gallery, then relax on the sands of **Playa ...

Evening:

As the sun softens, wander to Castillo Brunet's nearby promenade for a quiet shoreline stroll and catch the golden light on sculpted gardens, then...

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Santiago, Chile · Saturday, May 9, 2026

Overnight bus to Santiago; budget city tour

Morning:

After arriving and stashing your pack, start with a wallet-friendly paseo through Parque Forestal, grabbing a strong cafecito and marraqueta from ...

Afternoon:

Stroll through the leafy paths of Parque Balmaceda and relax by the small ponds, then browse affordable secondhand books and vinyl at the weekend ...

Evening:

As dusk falls, wander through the lively food stalls and cheap tapas bars around Barrio Yungay's Plaza Chacabuco to sample soul-warming completos ...

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Santiago, Chile · Sunday, May 10, 2026

Museums, markets and cheap wine tasting

Morning:

Begin with a relaxed morning exploring Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos to absorb contemporary Chilean history with free or low-cost ent...

Afternoon:

Wander through the lively stalls of Mercado Central to sample fresh seafood bites and pick up picnic staples, then head to the nearby leafy plaza ...

Evening:

As dusk falls, drift to Barrio Lastarria for its lively evening atmosphere-sip an affordable craft beer at a small calle-side bar and graze on che...

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Mendoza region, Argentina · Monday, May 11, 2026

Fly or bus to Mendoza (Argentina) on a budget

Morning:

After an early budget arrival into Mendoza, drop your pack at an economical hospedaje near Plaza Independencia then walk to **Parque General San M...

Afternoon:

After checking into your hospedaje, take an affordable local bus out to Bodega La Rural for a low-cost self-guided vineyard stroll and a wallet-fr...

Evening:

After settling in, wander to Plaza Italia to soak up a lively local atmosphere and grab an inexpensive choripán from a nearby street cart while wa...

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Mendoza, Argentina · Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Cheap winery visits and trekking options

Morning:

Ease into the day with a budget-friendly bike ride along the shady tracks of Parque O'Higgins, then pedal out to the family-run cooperative **Bode...

Afternoon:

Spend a relaxed afternoon cycling out to the cooperative-run Bodega La Azul for an affordable tasting of estate Malbec and a chat with the cellar ...

Evening:

As the day cools, stroll through the shady lanes of Barrio Cívico toward the lively food stalls at Mercado Central de Mendoza for an affordabl...

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Bariloche region, Argentina · Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Bus to Bariloche area for lakes and hiking

Morning:

Arrive mid-morning in the lakeside town and drop your pack, then stretch your legs with a gentle lakeside walk around Lago Nahuel Huapi to take in...

Afternoon:

After the morning arrival and lakeside walk, head to Cascada de los Duendes for a gentle riverside stroll through lenga forest and a budget picnic...

Evening:

As evening falls, wander the waterfront promenade at Avenida Bustillo toward the cosy wooden piers and pick up a cheap porción of local trout from...

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San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina · Thursday, May 14, 2026

Budget outdoor activities and local chocolate sampling

Morning:

Kick off the morning with a budget-friendly hike through the lenga forest to Refugio Frey's nearby lower trails (avoid the longer climb) for crisp...

Afternoon:

Spend a breezy afternoon renting an affordable paddleboard at Playa Serena and glide across the calm bay, then walk the shoreline to the scenic ro...

Evening:

As twilight falls, wander to Cerro Campanario's lower cable-car station area for a short, inexpensive sunset viewpoint walk (skip the full ascent ...

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On the road to Patagonia · Friday, May 15, 2026

Long-distance bus toward El Calafate region

Morning:

Board an early long-distance coach and pause mid-morning at Río Gallegos Lookout for a brisk stretch and panoramic views of Patagonian steppe and ...

Afternoon:

Break the long haul with a stop at Parque Nacional Perito Moreno (roadside viewpoint) to stretch your legs on easy walks and scan the distant Ande...

Evening:

As twilight deepens, stretch your legs with a short stop at Parador Río Turbio to watch shepherd dogs round up flocks and grab a warming cup of ma...

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El Calafate, Argentina · Saturday, May 16, 2026

Arrival in El Calafate; explore town affordably

Morning:

After dropping your pack, take a gentle stroll to Avenida del Libertador to window-shop outdoor gear at budget-friendly shops and grab strong coff...

Afternoon:

Wander the craft stalls and budget cafés along Avenida del Libertador-pick up an inexpensive alpaca scarf at a family-run stall and warm up with a...

Evening:

As twilight settles, wander to Plaza Central (Plaza José de San Martín) to watch locals gather and grab an affordable choripán from a street vendo...

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Perito Moreno / El Calafate, Argentina · Sunday, May 17, 2026

Budget visit to Perito Moreno Glacier viewpoint

Morning:

Catch an early shared shuttle from El Calafate bus terminal to the Perito Moreno parking area, then follow the network of wooden walkways at **Pas...

Afternoon:

After the boardwalks, take a short local bus or shared shuttle to the quieter west-side trailhead at Bahía Redonda viewpoint for a different angle...

Evening:

As light softens, wander to the quieter shoreline at Bahía Toro for a mellow lakeside stroll where local families grill trout and small vendors se...

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El Chaltén, Argentina · Monday, May 18, 2026

Bus to El Chaltén for hiking

Morning:

Arrive in El Chaltén mid-morning and drop your pack, then warm up with a strong coffee and medialuna at La Tapera before heading to the nearby tra...

Afternoon:

Drop your pack at a budget hospedaje near Avenida San Martín, then take a short colectivo or walk to the trailhead for a relaxed afternoon loop to...

Evening:

After an active afternoon, stroll to the peaceful shoreline at Playa del Rio de las Vueltas to watch the fading light on nearby peaks while warmin...

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El Chaltén, Argentina · Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Full day trekking (self-guided, budget)

Morning:

Set out at first light along the lesser-used ridge route to Laguna Toro for a quiet, self-guided hike that climbs through lenga forest and opens o...

Afternoon:

After a morning at Laguna Madre e Hija, continue your loop by following the quieter trail toward Laguna Sucia, a windswept plateau ideal for birdw...

Evening:

After a day on the trails, stroll into town and soak tired legs in the warm, communal tubs at Hostería El Pilar's simple outdoor area or opt for a...

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On the road to Buenos Aires · Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Return toward Buenos Aires region (overland)

Morning:

Board an early long-distance bus and stop mid-morning for a leg stretch and cheap breakfast at Parador Ruta 40 where vendors sell empanadas and st...

Afternoon:

Break the long coach journey with a refreshing stop in Bahía Blanca to stroll the coastal promenade and sample cheap choripanes from the food cart...

Evening:

As dusk falls, pause the coach at Parador La Posta for a relaxed stretch, tasting grilled provoleta and choripán from the roadside puestos while e...

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Buenos Aires, Argentina · Thursday, May 21, 2026

Arrival in Buenos Aires; neighbourhood strolls

Morning:

After arriving and dropping your pack, ease into the porteño rhythm with a relaxed breakfast of medialunas and café con leche at Café Tortoni, the...

Afternoon:

Ease into the city by wandering the leafy avenues of Palermo Soho, popping into indie design shops and budget-friendly alfresco cafés on **Plaza S...

Evening:

As golden hour arrives, wander the lively lanes of Puerto Madero to watch the riverfront lights come on and sample affordable seafood empanadas at...

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Buenos Aires, Argentina · Friday, May 22, 2026

Free and cheap sights: Recoleta, La Boca, Palermo

Morning:

Start the morning with a genteel paseo through Plaza Francia, browsing the weekend artisan stalls for affordable prints and handmade leather goods...

Afternoon:

Wander the shaded promenades of Avenida del Libertador toward the elegant green of Plaza Vicente López, then pop into the budget-friendly arti...

Evening:

As twilight deepens, wander into the dense barrio of Almagro to catch an affordable local tango milonga at a community dance hall and sip a mate a...

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Tigre, Argentina · Saturday, May 23, 2026

Day trip to Tigre Delta on a budget

Morning:

Catch an early local train to Estación Tigre and walk the riverside to the bustling boat piers, then join a shared motorboat (muy económico) from ...

Afternoon:

After your shared motorboat return to Tigre, wander the leafy stalls and second-hand book vendors at Puerto de Frutos market's quieter aisles, sam...

Evening:

As the light softens, drift upriver to Puerto de Frutos' waterfront promenade and grab a cheap portion of rabas or grilled choripán from a riversi...

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Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay · Sunday, May 24, 2026

Bus/ferry to Uruguay: Colonia del Sacramento

Morning:

Step off the ferry or bus and begin your morning with a slow paseo through the historic lanes of Barrio Histórico, pausing to sip a strong café co...

Afternoon:

After arriving and dropping your pack, wander the quieter, low-traffic lanes toward **Barrio Histórico's Calle de los Suspiros (lesser-used side stree...

Evening:

As lanterns come on, wander the quieter lanes toward Basilica del Santísimo Sacramento for a peaceful twilight visit, then follow the cobbles down...

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Montevideo, Uruguay · Monday, May 25, 2026

Montevideo arrival and budget city tour

Morning:

After arriving from Colonia, ease into Montevideo with a relaxed paseo through Parque Rodó, grabbing an affordable café con leche and medialuna at...

Afternoon:

Continue your easy arrival rhythm by heading to the waterfront neighborhood of Ciudad Vieja to wander its cheap antique stalls and grab an afforda...

Evening:

As twilight falls, wander the lively shoreline of Rambla de Montevideo toward the quieter stretch near Playa Ramírez, stopping to watch locals...

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Punta del Este region, Uruguay · Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Beach and market day in Punta del Este (economical options)

Morning:

Wake to a relaxed seaside stroll along Playa Mansa's calm shore, rent an inexpensive shared paddleboard from a family kiosk and glide near the mou...

Afternoon:

Spend a relaxed afternoon strolling the quieter sands of Playa Bikini, rent a low-cost sunbed from a family kiosk and watch local surfers while sn...

Evening:

As the sun softens, head to Playa Montoya for a relaxed shoreline walk and affordable street-side picadas from small kiosks, then catch a short lo...

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Buenos Aires, Argentina · Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Return to Buenos Aires for final days

Morning:

Ease back into Buenos Aires with a relaxed breakfast of medialunas and strong coffee at Confitería Las Violetas, then stroll the nearby leafy aven...

Afternoon:

After a relaxed morning, wander through the leafy streets of Parque Lezama to watch locals picnic and then pop into the nearby bohemian stalls of ...

Evening:

As night falls, take a relaxed porteño paseo through Plaza Italia toward the lively food-stall stretch on Avenida Santa Fe, stopping for an af...

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Buenos Aires, Argentina · Thursday, May 28, 2026

Wrap-up: souvenirs, budget-friendly final meals

Morning:

Start the morning hunting for last-minute bargains at Feria de San Telmo (early weekday stalls on Defensa) where antique vendors and independent a...

Afternoon:

Spend a leisurely afternoon hunting affordable keepsakes at Feria de Mataderos where local artisans sell leather goods and folk art, then pop into...

Evening:

As dusk falls, head to Galería Güemes's atmospheric arcade for last-minute handcrafted prints and modest gallery stalls, then sip an affordable co...

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Flexible / travel buffer · Friday, May 29, 2026

Buffer day for travel delays or extra stops

Morning:

Keep the morning flexible and low-pressure: grab a relaxed breakfast of medialunas and café con leche at Café La Poesía before strolling the lesse...

Afternoon:

If plans shift, spend a relaxed afternoon discovering quieter corners: wander the lesser-known bookshops and vinyl stalls around Libros del Pasaje...

Evening:

Take a relaxed, last-evening stroll through Plaza Intendente Alvear and duck into the nearby artisanal food stalls at Galería Patio del Liceo ...

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Homebound / depart from major hub · Saturday, May 30, 2026

Departure preparations and return travel

Morning:

Keep the final morning calm and efficient: stroll to Mercado Central (near the transport hub) to pick up last-minute snacks and a fresh bottle of ...

Afternoon:

Keep the pace relaxed and practical by visiting Centro de Envíos y Paquetería to ship any remaining souvenirs affordably, then stroll to **Parque ...

Evening:

Spend a relaxed final evening wandering the nearby neighborhood one last time: enjoy a modest last meal at La Esquina del Viajero (a budget-friend...

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Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
Exchange cash (local casas de cambio)Free
Buy SIM (Parque de la 93 / local mobile shop)$10
Tamal and coffee (Plaza de Mercado de la Perseverancia)$2
TransMilenio card (initial load)$2
Éxito Express groceries (basic groceries)$10
Parque Simón Bolívar (stroll)Free
Bike rental (park kiosk, Bogotá)$5
Street food arepas/fresh fruit (Parque Simón Bolívar)$2
CicloMercado de Usaquén / Carrera 7 stalls (souvenirs)$5
Affordable almuerzo near La Puerta Falsa (budget comedor)$4
Hostel (comparison / per night estimate)$10
Plaza de Bolívar (evening stroll)Free
La Quinta de Bolívar (garden visit)$1
Cazuela-focused menú del día (Calle 11)$4
Low-cost walking pub crawl (Parque de los Periodistas)$8
La Candelaria stroll (Plazuela del Chorro de Quevedo)Free
Caldo and fresh fruit (Plazuela del Chorro)$2
Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén / San Alejo (artisan market)Free
Museo Casa de la Independencia (free-entry)Free
Mercado de las Pulgas de San Alejo (haggling purchases)$5
Bandeja paisa / ajiaco at Plaza del Chorro comedor$4
Budget walking food tour (La Candelaria)$12
Mirador Biblioteca Virgilio Barco (terrace views)Free
Live street music / arepa de chócolo (Plaza del Chorro)$2
Cerro Monserrate cable car (one-way approx)$8
Mercado de Paloquemao evening stalls (anticuchos)$3
Overnight bus Terminal de Transporte Salitre (bogotá → medellín typical ticket)$25
Coffee and buñuelo (Almacenes La 70 street vendors)$1
Parque Lleras stroll / panadería snack$2
Colectivo to Parque de los Deseos / Plaza Botero (local transport)$1
Museo de Antioquia entry (budget discounted)$4
Low-cost café near Avenida La Playa (coffee)$1
Parque de la 70 dinner (taquería / local brew)$6
Parque Norte promenade / amusement lights (entry low-cost)$3
Comuna 13 guided graffiti walk (community tour)$8
Jardín Botánico Joaquín Antonio Uribe (entry)Free
Parque de los Pies Descalzos (visit)Free
Parque Biblioteca España (visit & snacks)Free
Mercado Minorista (coffee / picnic supplies)$5
Parque Bolívar Envigado (visit)Free
La 10 (Laureles) tavern dinner (bandeja sampler)$6
Mirador de Las Palmas (viewpoint trip by taxi/colectivo)$6
Bus Bogotá → Cartagena (budget overnight/shuttle)$30
Seafood breakfast ceviche & patacones (Plaza de la Trinidad)$3
Getsemaní artisan stalls (Plaza de Bolívar side)Free
Plaza Fernández Madrid empanada snack$1
Parque del Centenario visitFree
Sundowner rooftop near Plaza Santo Domingo (drink)$4
Plaza de los Coches street performers & skewered seafood$2
Playa La Boquilla sunbed rental & fried fish$6
Castillogrande Boardwalk coconut agua$2
Snorkel rental at Castillo Grande (basic set)$5
Mercado de Bazurto visit and ceviche sampling$3
Plaza de la Aduana grilled shrimp snack$3
Overnight bus Bogotá → Quito (multileg bus)$50
Caldo and arepa breakfast before bus (Parque Nacional Fontibón area)$2
Terminal food court empanadas / coffee$2
Mercado Central humitas & mate de coca (Quito)$2
Parque La Alameda stroll (acclimatization)Free
La Floresta café light soup$3
Parque El Ejido fresh juice$1
Plaza Foch tapas-style snacks (budget)$6
Parque La Carolina empanadas / mote snack$2
Free/low-cost Old Town walking tour (Quito)$5
Basílica del Voto Nacional exterior visitFree
El Panecillo viewpoint (small access / walk)Free
Bus Quito → Baños (budget)$5
Bike rental to Pailón del Diablo$4
Pailón del Diablo viewpoint entry (local trail)Free
Mirador de la Virgen colectivo / moto rental$6
Termas de la Virgen (riverside pools) entry / donation$3
Manto de la Novia hike (colectivo)$1
Coffee finca tasting (family-run)$3
Zipline (family-run canopy park, basic)$10
Casa del Árbol sunset swing (entry small fee)$3
Shared shuttle Baños → Macará (border)$20
Border crossing fees / small administrative costs$2
Snacks at Centro Comercial Ambato Norte$3
Overnight coach into northern Peru (to Piura/Trujillo region)$25
Breakfast Mercado Central de Trujillo (pan con chicharrón)$2
Playa El Golfito ceviche mixto (beachfront puesto)$4
Mercado Central de Trujillo souvenirs / picarones snack$3
Huacas del Sol y de la Luna guided visit (Moche sites - local ticket)$6
El Brujo site entry (El Brujo museum and Señora de Cao)$6
Huanchaco pier / caballitos de totora observationFree
Combi to Huanchaco & beachfront ceviche$2
Bus Trujillo → Lima (budget long-distance)$20
Miraflores bike rental (Parque del Amor area)$4
Ceviche tostada near Parque Kennedy (street cart)$3
Surf lesson or board rental at Playa Makaha (budget)$10
Mercado Surquillo street tastings (anticuchos, fruit)$3
Museo Nacional de la Cultura Peruana (low-cost/free mornings)Free
Barrio Chino cheap dim sum plates$4
Parque de la Reserva snack kiosks (fountain gardens)$2
Overnight bus to Paracas (to Puerto Paracas)$15
Shared boat to Ballestas Islets (budget operator)$20
Reserva Nacional de Paracas visitor viewpoint (entry)$5
Kayak / paddleboard rental at Puerto Paracas (shared)$10
Boat / paddle around Muelle Pesquero (rental)$8
Shared bus Paracas → Huacachina / Ica$5
Bodega Tacama vineyard tour (budget tasting)$8
Sandboard rental & dune buggy convoy (Huacachina)$15
Long-distance bus to Arequipa (overnight)$30
Mercado San Camilo snacks and picnic supplies$3
Monasterio de Santa Catalina outer corridors (reduced ticket times)$6
Mirador de Yanahuara viewpoint (Arequipa)Free
Colectivo to Colca Canyon / Chivay local transfer$10
Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint visit (local guide fee share)$8
Thermal pools at La Calera (entry)$3
Bus Arequipa → Puno (long-distance)$15
Mercado de Luquina trout ceviche and aguayos shopping$4
Boat trip to Uros & Taquile (shared day tour)$25
Taquile communal lunch (Restaurante Comunitario Taquile)$5
Overnight bus Puno → Cusco (overnight)$15
San Pedro Market snacks (Cusco)$3
Q'enqo viewpoint visit (easy walk)Free
Sacsayhuamán outskirts visit (colectivo)$2
San Blas artisan buys and Mercado de San Blas breakfast$3
Sacred Valley colectivo day (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras)$12
Ollantaytambo entrance & strolling (site fees small if any for town)Free
Maras Salt Mines entry / small donation$3
Train or bus/bus combo to Aguas Calientes (budget option)$30
Aguas Calientes thermal baths (entry)$5
Machupicchu shuttle (Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu gate, one-way)$12
Machu Picchu entry (national site ticket, Peru)$45
Mandor Gardens entry (small fee)$6
Return train Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo (budget)$25
Bus/coach Ollantaytambo → Cusco (shared)$6
Bus/train toward Juliaca/Puno then to La Paz (overland segments)$25
Teleférico short ride in La Paz (one short hop)$0.50
Mercado de las Brujas browsing and salteña snack$2
Mirador Killi Killi visitFree
Valle de las Animas / moonscape walk (entry/trail)Free
Teleférico multiple-line short rides (per ride average)$0.50
Overnight bus to Uyuni (to Oruro/Uyuni region)$25
Cementerio de Trenes visit (Uyuni)Free
Salar de Uyuni shared 4x4 day tour (budget shared)$40
Isla Incahuasi entry (park fee)$3
Colchani artisan salt stalls (souvenir)$5
Cross into northern Chile → bus to San Pedro de Atacama (overland)$20
Museo del Meteorito (San Pedro) entry$3
Pukará de Quitor site visit (trail)$3
Bike rental in San Pedro de Atacama (half-day)$6
Shared stargazing colectivo (budget)$12
Shared minivan to Géiseres de Tatio (sunrise tour, budget)$20
Piedras Rojas visit (shared transfer / viewpoint)$5
Overnight bus to La Serena / Coquimbo region$30
Avenida del Mar stroll & kiosks snacks (La Serena)$3
Observatorio Mamalluca daytime visit (cheap options)$10
Cerro Tololo public viewpoint transfer (budget drop-off)$10
Long-distance bus to Valparaíso (overnight)$20
Cerro Alegre mural trail (self-guided)Free
Ascensor El Peral funicular ride (one-way)$1
Museo a Cielo Abierto de San Miguel (outdoor works)Free
Empanadas / choripán street snacks (Valparaíso)$2
Bus to Viña del Mar and beach (local bus)$2
Reloj de Flores visit (photo stop)Free
Bike rental Avenida Perú (half-day)$4
Overnight bus to Santiago (budget)$15
Cerro Santa Lucía visit (entrance / walk)Free
Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (free/low-cost)Free
Pueblito Los Dominicos artisan browsing (free)Free
Budget wine tasting at urban winery (shared flight)$10
Bus/flight to Mendoza (budget bus)$40
Bike rental / park stroll in Mendoza$3
Low-cost bodega tasting (La Rural or cooperative)$8
Local bus/colectivo to wineries (shared)$3
Bus to Bariloche region (long-distance)$40
Lago Nahuel Huapi lakeside walk and coffee$2
Cerro Otto short hike (local bus)$2
Kayak rental Puerto Pañuelo (short)$10
Artisan chocolate sampling (small flights)$4
Long-distance bus toward El Calafate (overnight)$35
Glaciarium museum (discount combos possible)$8
Shared shuttle to Perito Moreno viewpoint (budget)$15
Perito Moreno park walkways (entry included in park transfer)$5
Bus to El Chaltén (regional)$10
Sendero Laguna Capri trail (easy hike)Free
Laguna Torre trail afternoon walkFree
Full day self-guided trekking (food / gear minimal)$5
Return overland toward Buenos Aires (long-distance bus legs)$50
Arrival in Buenos Aires - Café Tortoni medialunas & coffee$3
San Telmo antique stalls browsing (weekend)Free
Palermo Soho late lunch choripán/empanadas$4
Bosques de Palermo bike rental (short)$3
Free sights: Plaza Francia, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes exteriorFree
Caminito (La Boca) visit (street performers / souvenirs)$2
Day trip to Tigre Delta shared motorboat (economical)$8
Colonia del Sacramento ferry/bus (one-way budget)$25
Colonia historic lane stroll & cafe con leche$2
Montevideo Mercado Agrícola snack & tasting$3
Punta del Este beach paddleboard shared rental$8
Isla de Gorriti cheap ferry shuttle (round-trip)$6
Return to Buenos Aires region (local bus)$15
Final souvenir markets (San Telmo / Feria de Mataderos purchases)$10
Budget tango milonga / show (community-run small venue)$8
Airport/long-distance terminal shuttle or bus to hub$3
Estimated Total (per person)$1460
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