Off-the-Beaten-Path Hiking Trails in South America Under $50 Daily

While the salt flats themselves are popular, the surrounding trekking routes in the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve remain surprisingly affordable and uncrowded. Hikers can traverse high-altitude deserts and lagoon fields for under $50 a day by camping or staying in basic local hostels.

Located near Ushuaia, this moon-like landscape offers rugged hiking trails through eroded clay formations and dramatic gorges. It is a budget-friendly alternative to the more expensive Torres del Paine park, allowing visitors to explore dramatic geology and alpine scenery on a tight budget.

Often overshadowed by the Inca Trail, this high-altitude trekking route circles the Huayhuash mountain range, offering some of the most spectacular peaks in the Andes. Travelers can complete this challenging circuit on a modest budget by camping and carrying their own food or hiring local support at low cost.

Home to the famous Caño Cristales, this remote national park offers less-visited hiking trails through lush tropical cloud forests. Accommodation is limited to basic eco-lodges and camping sites, keeping daily costs extremely low while providing access to unique biodiversity and waterfalls.

This lesser-known range provides alternative routes to Machu Picchu and features remote Inca trails through pristine cloud forests. The area is affordable for budget-conscious hikers, with simple homestays and camping options available in small villages along the trail network.

By hiking in the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn, travelers can avoid peak prices and find camping spots for free or minimal cost. While park fees apply, the low cost of living in nearby towns like Punta Arenas allows for daily budgets under $50 if meals are self-catered.

This dormant volcano in the Jujuy province offers high-altitude trekking with stunning views of the Altiplano. It is an inexpensive destination for experienced hikers who prefer self-sufficient trips, as there are few tourist facilities, requiring only basic camping gear and local transport.

Though travel to Venezuela requires caution, the Cucubán Valley in Falcón state offers affordable camping among dramatic sand dunes and pre-Columbian rock formations. For those with logistical support, daily costs for food and water are minimal, making it a unique low-budget hiking experience.

One of the last untouched rainforests in South America, this park offers remote hiking through pristine Amazonian ecosystems. With no tourist infrastructure, costs are limited to guide fees and transport, but once in the jungle, camping is free, keeping daily expenses very low for independent trekkers.

Combining high-altitude lagoons with vibrant geological layers, this route in Jujuy offers affordable hiking opportunities. The area is rich in local culture and cheap street food, allowing travelers to stretch their budget while exploring volcanic landscapes and colonial history.

Accessing these flat-topped mountains requires permits and guides, but the cost is lower than in neighboring countries for equivalent remote experiences. Hikers can explore unique ecosystems with waterfalls and endemic species, maintaining a modest budget by staying in basic jungle lodges or camping.

A vast sandstone plateau known for ancient rock art and jaguar habitats, this park offers off-the-grid hiking. While permits are required, the absence of commercial tourism keeps costs low, with travelers relying on local indigenous guides and self-catering camping to stay within budget.

Near Cafayate, this canyon offers affordable hiking through wine country with colorful rock formations. The proximity to town means access to cheap meals and accommodation, allowing hikers to enjoy scenic trails without the premium pricing found in more remote Patagonian regions.

This isolated mountain range offers diverse ecosystems from jungle to snow-capped peaks. Budget hikers can stay in indigenous community lodges and eat locally sourced food, keeping daily costs minimal while experiencing cultural immersion and multi-day trekking routes.

Although technically Central America, many South American budget hikers include this highest peak in Central America due to its proximity. Hiking costs are extremely low, with simple mountain huts available for a few dollars, offering a challenging ascent with minimal financial barrier.

While the Huayhuash and Ausangate circuits get attention, the Cordillera Real near La Paz offers more accessible and cheaper day hikes and multi-day treks. Basic lodging in Chacaltaya and surrounding villages is affordable, making it ideal for budget travelers seeking alpine views.

The highest peak in the Sierras Pampeanas offers rugged hiking and panoramic views without the crowds of Patagonia. Nearby towns like Coronel Suárez provide cheap accommodation and food, allowing hikers to explore the trail network on a very tight daily budget.

While climbing Aconcagua is expensive, the Perito Moreno hike to the base camp perimeter is affordable and self-sufficient. Camping is free in many designated areas outside the main park zone, and hikers can manage costs by carrying their own supplies from Mendoza.

This remote mountain range offers pristine cloud forest hiking with minimal tourist infrastructure. For those with local connections, costs are negligible, involving basic camping and local food. It is a true off-the-grid experience for adventurous budget travelers seeking solitude and biodiversity.