Top 3 destinations you can travel to with less than $1,000 USD from Ecuador

15/10/2025

Can you imagine being able to discover new destinations without spending a fortune? If you live in Ecuador and dream of traveling, you're in luck. Today we present to you the Top 3 destinations you can travel to with less than $1,000 USD from Ecuador. Not only do these places offer unforgettable experiences, but they're also affordable for your wallet.

Traveling doesn't always have to be expensive. With a little planning and some useful tips, you can enjoy an amazing vacation without breaking the bank. From paradisiacal beaches to cities steeped in history and culture, there are options for all tastes and budgets.


In this article, we'll show you how you can make your dream of traveling a reality, exploring fascinating destinations without spending more than $1,000 USD. In addition, we'll give you practical tips for saving on accommodation, transportation and activities, so you can make the most of your budget.

So get ready to discover amazing places that are right at your fingertips. Keep reading and discover how you can travel affordably and enjoy unforgettable experiences.

1. Mexico: Culture and Gastronomy at a Low Cost

Mexico is an accessible and culture-filled destination. From Mexico City to Cancun, there are plenty of options to enjoy without breaking the bank. Here's how you can make your money work better in this beautiful country.

Traveling to Mexico from Ecuador can be an enriching and affordable experience. With a budget of less than $1,000 USD, you can explore the rich culture and delicious Mexican cuisine without compromising the quality of your trip.

Flight and Accommodation Costs

Flights from Ecuador to Mexico can be found at very affordable prices if you search in advance. For example, a flight to and from Mexico City can cost around $400 USD. To stay, consider options such as hostels and Airbnbs, where you can find rooms starting at $10 USD per night.

  • Flights: Round trip starting at $400 USD
  • Accommodation: Hostels from $10 USD per night

Local Food and Gastronomy

Food in Mexico is not only delicious but also affordable. You can enjoy traditional dishes such as tacos, tamales and enchiladas for less than $5 at local markets and street stalls. In addition, many restaurants offer daily menus that include starter, main course and drinks for approximately $10 USD.

  • Tacos: Starting at $1 USD each
  • Menu of the day: Approximately $10 USD

Free or Low-Cost Activities

Mexico offers a wide variety of free or low-cost activities that will allow you to discover its culture and natural beauty. For example, you can visit the Zócalo and the Palace of Fine Arts in Mexico City at no cost. Also, exploring the beaches of Cancun and Tulum is an excellent option to enjoy the sea and the sun without breaking the bank.

  • Zócalo and Palace of Fine Arts: Free entry
  • Cancun and Tulum beaches: Free access


For more tips on how to travel to Mexico on a budget, visit our cheap flight and accommodation deals section on Travelex.

2. Colombia: Nature and Adventure

Colombia is a perfect destination for nature and adventure lovers. On a budget, you can explore its beautiful beaches, mountains, and jungles. Here's how to do it.

Traveling to Colombia from Ecuador is an affordable and exciting option. With less than $1,000 USD, you can enjoy a variety of landscapes and activities without compromising the quality of your experience.

Flight and Accommodation Costs

Flights from Ecuador to Colombia are quite affordable. For example, a flight to and from Bogota can cost around $200 USD if booked in advance. As for accommodation, there are many affordable options, such as hostels and Airbnbs, where you can find rooms starting at $10 USD per night.

  • Flights: Round trip starting at $200 USD
  • Accommodation: Hostels from $10 USD per night

Local Food and Gastronomy

Food in Colombia is delicious and affordable. You can enjoy traditional dishes such as arepas, empanadas and a paisa tray for less than $5 at local markets and street stalls. In addition, many restaurants offer daily menus that include starter, main course and drinks for approximately $8 USD.

  • Arepas: Starting at $1 USD each
  • Menu of the day: Approximately $8 USD

Free or Low-Cost Activities

Colombia offers a wide variety of free or low-cost activities that will allow you to enjoy its nature and culture. For example, you can visit Tayrona National Natural Park, where admission costs around $15 USD, or explore the walled city of Cartagena at no cost. You can also enjoy the beaches of Santa Marta and the mountains of the Sierra Nevada.

  • Tayrona National Natural Park: Admission $15 USD
  • Walled City of Cartagena: Free entry
  • Santa Marta beaches: Free access


For more tips on how to travel to Colombia on a budget, visit our cheap flight and accommodation deals section on Travelex.

3. Peru: Incredible History and Landscapes

Peru is a destination steeped in history and breathtaking landscapes. From the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu to the vibrant capital, lime, there's a lot to explore on a tight budget. Here's how to do it without spending more than $1,000 USD.

Flight and Accommodation Costs

Flights from Ecuador to Peru can be quite cheap if booked in advance. For example, a flight to and from Lima can cost around $300 USD. For accommodation, there are options for all budgets, from hostels to Airbnbs, where you can find rooms starting at $15 USD per night.

  • Flights: Round trip starting at $300 USD
  • Accommodation: Hostels from $15 USD per night

Local Food and Gastronomy

Peruvian cuisine is famous around the world and, fortunately, it is also accessible. You can enjoy traditional dishes such as ceviche, sirloin, and anticuchos for less than $10 at local markets and street stalls. In addition, many restaurants offer daily menus that include starter, main course and drinks for approximately $12 USD.

  • Ceviche: From $5 USD
  • Menu of the day: Approximately $12 USD

Free or Low-Cost Activities

Peru offers a wide variety of free or low-cost activities that will allow you to learn about its rich history and natural landscapes. You can visit the historic center of Lima, which is a World Heritage Site, at no cost. You can also explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas and take walks through its breathtaking landscapes. The entrance to Machu Picchu may be a little more expensive, but there are discounts for students and trekking options that include admission in the price.

  • Historic Center of Lima: Free entry
  • Sacred Valley of the Incas: Free hikes
  • Machu Picchu: Entry starting at $50 USD (with student discounts)


For more tips on how to travel to Peru on a budget, visit our cheap flight and accommodation deals section on Travelex.

Discover the World Without Breaking the Bank

Traveling from Ecuador with a budget of less than $1,000 USD is completely possible and full of opportunities. Through this article, we have explored fascinating destinations such as Mexico, Colombia and Peru, each offering a rich mix of culture, gastronomy and economic activities. Not only are these destinations accessible, but they also provide unforgettable experiences.

Mexico invites you to enjoy its vibrant culture and delicious food without breaking the bank. From Mexico City to the paradisiacal beaches of Cancun and Tulum, there are options for all tastes. Cheap flights and accommodations, together with the wide range of free activities, make Mexico an ideal destination for budget travelers.

Colombia is perfect for nature and adventure lovers. With its beautiful beaches, mountains and jungles, this country offers a wide variety of free or low-cost activities. In addition, Colombian cuisine is delicious and accessible, allowing you to enjoy traditional dishes without breaking the bank.

Peru it surprises you with its history and breathtaking landscapes. From majestic Machu Picchu to vibrant Lima, there's so much to explore. Affordable flights and diverse accommodation options make Peru an affordable destination. In addition, the rich Peruvian cuisine and free or low-cost cultural activities will allow you to make the most of your trip.

Traveling doesn't have to be expensive if you know how to plan and take advantage of opportunities. We encourage you to continue exploring and discovering more affordable destinations in our travel deals section on Travelex. Share your experiences and questions in the comments, and don't forget to follow us on our social networks for more tips and travel deals.