Are you ready to go wild, explore the unknown, and have a once-in-a-lifetime adventure without breaking the bank? Look no further than these three destinations to quench your thirst for adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Ecuador: Nature and Culture at a Bargain
The first nation on the list is Ecuador. With its breathtaking views of the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes Mountains, and the Pacific coast, Ecuador offers countless opportunities for exploration and thrills. The country also has captivating indigenous cultures and breathtaking colonial architecture, making it an ideal destination for history and culture buffs. Ecuador is also reasonably priced travel destination, with low transportation, accommodation and food costs.
The Galapagos Islands, known for their unique wildlife and natural wonders, are a must-see destination in Ecuador. While the islands may appear out of reach for budget travelers, there are ways to experience them without breaking the bank, such as taking a budget cruise or staying on Santa Cruz, the main island. For history, architecture, and gastronomy buffs, the cities of Quito and Cuenca are a must-see.
Breakdown
Hotels:
Budget hotels/hostels: $10-$25 per night
Mid-range hotels: $30-$50 per night
Luxury hotels: $80-$200 per night
Food:
Street food: $1-$2 per meal
Local restaurants: $4-$7 per meal
Mid-range restaurants: $10-$20 per meal
High-end restaurants: $30-$50 per meal
Coffee:
Local cafes: $1-$3 per cup
Specialty coffee shops: $3-$5 per cup
Food to try
Ecuador has a rich culinary tradition that reflects the country’s diverse cultural heritage and abundance of fresh ingredients. Here are some must-try Ecuadorian foods:
Ceviche – a popular dish made with raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juice, onions, and spices. Ceviche is usually served with plantain chips or corn on the cob.
Locro – a hearty soup made with potatoes, cheese, corn, and avocado. This is a traditional Andean dish that is often served during festivals and celebrations.
Empanadas – savory pastries filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Empanadas are a popular street food in Ecuador and are often served with hot sauce or ají.
Llapingachos – potato cakes stuffed with cheese and served with peanut sauce, chorizo, and avocado. This is a popular dish in the highlands of Ecuador.
Fanesca – a rich soup made with 12 different grains and beans, dried cod, milk, cheese, and spices. This is a traditional Easter dish in Ecuador and is often served with empanadas.
Churrasco – a grilled beef steak served with rice, beans, fried eggs, and plantains. This is a hearty meal that is popular throughout the country.
Mote pillo – a dish made with hominy corn and scrambled eggs. This is a popular breakfast dish in Ecuador and is often served with avocado, cheese, and hot sauce.
Things to see and do
Explore Quito’s Old Town’s colonial architecture.
Visit the Galapagos Islands to see rare wildlife.
Visit Otavalo and Saquisil indigenous markets.
Hike the Quilotoa Loop, a breathtaking trek through the Andes.
Relax in the Baos hot springs.
Explore the Amazon Rainforest and its diverse wildlife and local communities.
Planning to extend your stay?
There are a few things you should think about if you’re a digital nomad planning to stay in Ecuador for an extended period of time.
Most countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the majority of Europe, do not require a visa to enter Ecuador as a tourist for up to 90 days. If you intend to stay for more than 90 days, you must apply for a visa. Ecuador offers three types of visas: temporary visitor visas, work visas, and professional visas. The maximum stay on a tourist visa is 180 days per year.
Proof of income: You will need to show proof of income or financial resources in order to enter Ecuador as a digital nomad. The Ecuadorian government requires visitors to have at least $2,000 in cash on hand during their stay.
Health insurance: While it is not required by law, having health insurance while in Ecuador is strongly advised. For foreigners, medical care in Ecuador can be costly, and having insurance can help protect you from unexpected costs.
Ecuador has a growing digital nomad community and many great places to stay and work remotely.
Here are some of the best places for a digital nomad to stay in Ecuador:
Quito – Ecuador’s capital city has a thriving startup and digital nomad community. It offers a variety of coworking spaces, cafes, and low-cost apartment rentals. Because of their closeness to facilities and services, the neighborhoods of La Floresta and La Mariscal are popular with digital nomads..
Cuenca – Cuenca is a smaller city located in the southern Andes mountains. It’s known for its colonial architecture, mild climate, and affordable cost of living. The city has several coworking spaces and cafes, and many expats and digital nomads live in the El Vergel neighborhood.
Salinas – Salinas is a beach town on the Pacific coast of Ecuador. It’s a popular surfing destination with a growing digital nomad community. There are several coworking spaces and cafes in town, as well as affordable apartments and hotels.
Vilcabamba – Vilcabamba is a small town in the southern Andes mountains known for its mild climate and relaxed way of life. It has a growing digital nomad and expat community, as well as several cafes and coworking spaces. The town is also close to hiking trails and natural areas.
Baños – Baños is a small town in the central Andes mountains that is famous for its hot springs, waterfalls, and outdoor activities. It has a growing digital nomad community as well as several coworking spaces and cafes. The town is inexpensive and provides a unique blend of nature and culture.
These are just a few of the best places in Ecuador for digital nomads to stay. Each location has its own distinct culture, climate, and way of life, so do your research and choose the area that best meets your needs if you plan to visit Ecuador.
Paraguay: A Country of Contrasts
Paraguay is up next, a country that is frequently overlooked. This small, landlocked country in the heart of South America is a true hidden gem. It’s a mash-up of indigenous, Spanish, and Brazilian influences, as attested by its diverse cuisine, music, and arts. Head to the Itapua department in the south for a taste of Paraguay’s natural beauty, where you can explore waterfalls, national parks, and wildlife reserves.
Check out Encarnacion’s vibrant nightlife and music scene for a taste of the local culture. And, for a truly unique experience, go to the Jesuit Missions, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites that provide a glimpse into the country’s colonial history. Paraguay is also one of the most affordable countries in South America, with low prices for accomodation, food, and transportation.
Breakdown
Hotels:
Budget: $15-25 USD per night
Mid-range: $35-60 USD per night
Luxury: $80-120 USD per night
Food:
Local street food: $2-5 USD per meal
Mid-range restaurant: $10-15 USD per meal
High-end restaurant: $30-50 USD per meal
Coffee:
Local coffee shops: $1-3 USD per cup
Food to try
Paraguay has a unique and delicious cuisine, with a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and Guarani influences. Here are some must-try foods in Paraguay:
Sopa paraguaya: This is a traditional cornbread made with cornmeal, cheese, and onions. It’s often served as a side dish or as a main dish with meat.
Chipa: These are small, round bread rolls made with cassava flour, cheese, and eggs. They’re often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
Asado: Paraguayans love their barbecues, or asados. They typically grill beef, chicken, and pork, and serve it with mandioca (cassava), salad, and chimichurri sauce.
Milanesa: This is a breaded and fried beef or chicken cutlet, often served with mashed potatoes and salad.
Bori bori: This is a traditional soup made with chicken or beef, vegetables, and small balls of cornmeal and cheese.
Mbejú: This is another type of cornbread made with cassava flour, cheese, and butter. It’s often served as a snack or with tea.
Tereré: This is a cold tea made with yerba mate and served in a traditional gourd with a metal straw. It’s a popular drink in Paraguay and is often shared with friends and family.
Things to see and do:
Asuncion: The capital city of Paraguay is an excellent place to learn about the country’s history and culture. There are many colonial buildings and museums to visit in the city’s old town, or Casco Viejo.
Itaipu Dam: One of the world’s largest hydroelectric dams, it is shared by Paraguay and Brazil. Tours of the dam and information about its construction are available.
The Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue are UNESCO World Heritage sites located near the border with Argentina. They provide insight into the region’s colonial past.
Ybycui National Park: Located in southern Paraguay, this national park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Ciudad del Este Shopping: This border city with Brazil is a popular shopping destination, with everything from electronics to clothing available at reasonable prices.
Planning to extend your stay?
If you’re planning to stay in Paraguay as a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a temporary residence permit. Here’s what you need to know:
Visa requirements: Most nationalities can enter Paraguay without a visa for up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a visa or temporary residence permit.
As a tourist, if you wish to extend your stay, you can do so by visiting the immigration office in Asuncion or other major cities in Paraguay.
To extend your stay in Paraguay, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining
- Proof of financial means to support yourself during your extended stay in Paraguay
- A return ticket or proof of onward travel
- A completed application form for a visa extension
It’s important to note that visa extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of the Paraguayan immigration authorities. It’s recommended that you apply for an extension at least a week before your initial 90-day tourist visa expires to allow for processing time.
Temporary residence permit: To obtain a temporary residence permit, go to the immigration office in Asuncion and bring the following documents with you: your passport, two passport-sized photos, a police clearance certificate from your home country, proof of income, and proof of health insurance. The application process can take several weeks, and the permit is only valid for one year.
Cost: The cost of a temporary residence permit in Paraguay is around $500 USD.
You may be looking for a location that provides reliable internet, comfortable accommodations, and a good balance of work and play as a digital nomad. Here are a few locations in Paraguay that may be suitable for digital nomads:
Asuncion: As Paraguay’s capital city, Asuncion offers a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. It has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets, as well as coworking spaces and cafes with good internet.
Encarnacion: This city in southern Paraguay is known for its beaches along the Parana River and its lively nightlife. It also has a growing number of coworking spaces and cafes that cater to digital nomads.
Ciudad del Este: This border city with Brazil is a major shopping destination, but it also has a range of accommodations and internet cafes that cater to digital nomads. It’s a good option if you need to cross into Brazil frequently for business or leisure.
Itapua: This department in southern Paraguay is known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, national parks, and wildlife reserves. It’s a good option if you prefer a quieter, more rural environment with a focus on outdoor activities.
Overall, Asuncion is the most developed city in Paraguay and offers the most amenities for digital nomads. However, other cities and regions in Paraguay may also be worth exploring depending on your preferences and needs.
Bolivia: Adventure and Culture at Altitude
Last but not the least- Bolivia. Bolivia is a beautiful and diverse country, with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and affordable prices. From the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, to the colorful colonial cities of Sucre and Potosi, there’s something for everyone.
The Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, is one of Bolivia’s must-see attractions. With salt crystals, colored lakes, and flamingos dotting the horizon, this awe – inspiring landscape is a photographer’s dream. For those interested in culture, the cities of Sucre and La Paz offer a blend of colonial architecture, traditional markets, and indigenous cultures.
The country is also known for its delectable cuisine and distinctive traditions, making it an ideal destination for families and culture enthusiasts. Furthermore, with today’s exchange rates, Bolivia is very affordable for budget travelers.
Breakdown
Hotels:
Budget hotels/hostels: $5-15 per night
Mid-range hotels: $25-50 per night
Luxury hotels: $100-200+ per night
Food:
Street food: $1-3 per meal
Local restaurants: $3-7 per meal
Western-style restaurants: $7-15 per meal
Coffee:
Local coffee: $1-2
Western-style coffee: $2-5
Food to try
Bolivia’s culinary scene is diverse, influenced by indigenous cultures and colonial history. Here are some must-try Bolivian foods:
Salteñas: These are savory pastries filled with beef, chicken, or vegetables and cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce. They are a popular breakfast or snack food in Bolivia.
Pique a lo macho: This is a hearty meat dish that includes beef, chorizo, potatoes, onions, and chili peppers. It’s typically served with rice and fried eggs.
Silpancho: This is a traditional dish from the Cochabamba region of Bolivia. It consists of a flattened and fried beef patty served over a bed of rice and potatoes, topped with a fried egg and salsa.
Chicharrón: This is a popular snack or appetizer made from deep-fried pork belly or pork ribs. It’s typically served with boiled potatoes, corn, and spicy salsa.
Api con pastel: This is a sweet drink made from purple corn, cinnamon, and sugar, served with a pastry filled with cheese or meat. It’s a popular breakfast or snack food in Bolivia.
Sopa de maní: This is a peanut soup made with chicken or beef, potatoes, onions, and chili peppers. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s popular in the Andean region of Bolivia.
Empanadas: These are savory pastries filled with beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables. They are a popular snack food in Bolivia and can be found in bakeries and street vendors throughout the country.
Things to see and do:
Salar de Uyuni: The world’s largest salt flat, offers a surreal and otherworldly landscape ideal for photography and exploration. A tour of the salt flats usually costs between $100 and $150.
La Paz: Bolivia’s capital city is a fusion of colonial and modern architecture, with museums, markets, and street food. A trip to the famous Witches’ Market is a must.
Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest accessible lake, located on the border of Bolivia and Peru. The lake and its islands, including the famous Isla del Sol, can be explored by boat.
Potosi: Due to its silver mines, this colonial city was once one of the wealthiest in the world. Today, you can learn about the city’s history and take a tour of the still-operational mines at the Casa Nacional de Moneda museum.
Tiwanaku: This ancient city, which was once a major center of the Tiwanaku culture, has fascinating ruins and artifacts dating back to the 6th century.
Overall, Bolivia is a low-cost destination with a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With low-cost lodging, food, and transportation, you can have a memorable vacation without breaking the bank.
Planning to extend your stay?
A tourist visa allows digital nomads to stay in Bolivia for a maximum of 90 days. This visa is extendable for another 90 days, but you must apply at least 15 days before your current visa expires.
To apply for a visa extension, go to the Immigration Office in La Paz, Cochabamba, or Santa Cruz and bring the following documents with you:
- A valid passport and visa
- A duplicate of your passport
- A filled-out visa extension form
- Proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay (bank statement, credit card, or cash)
Before traveling to Bolivia, always check the latest visa regulations with your local embassy or consulate, as visa policies can change.
While Bolivia may not be as popular with digital nomads as other countries, there are a few areas that may be appealing to remote workers. Here are a few digital nomad hotspots in Bolivia:
La Paz: The capital city of Bolivia has a thriving startup scene as well as a number of co-working spaces and cafes with reliable wifi. It also has a lower cost of living than other South American capital cities.
Santa Cruz: Bolivia’s largest city is a business and commerce hub with a modern infrastructure and numerous amenities that digital nomads may find appealing. It’s also in a tropical climate zone, which can be refreshing for those used to colder climates.
Cochabamba: Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its mild climate, Cochabamba has a growing expat community as well as a number of co-working spaces and cafes that cater to remote workers.
Samaipata: This small town in the Andes foothills has become a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a quiet and peaceful work environment. It has a small but growing expat community, as well as a few co-working spaces and cafes.
Ecuador, Paraguay, and Bolivia are must-see destinations for an off-the-beaten-path adventure that won’t break the bank. These hidden gem countries will surprise and delight even the most seasoned travelers with their combination of natural beauty, culture, and affordability.
So pack your bags and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
