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

15/8/2024

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

Travel doesn't always have to be expensive. With a little planning and some helpful tips, you can enjoy an amazing vacation without breaking the bank. From paradisiacal beaches to cities full of history and culture, there are options for every taste and budget.


In this article, we'll show you how you can make your travel dreams come true by exploring fascinating destinations without spending more than $1,000 USD. Plus, we'll give you practical tips on how to save on lodging, transportation and activities, so you can make the most of your budget.

So get ready to discover amazing places that are within your reach. Read on to find out how you can travel economically and enjoy unforgettable experiences.

1. Mexico: Low Cost Culture and Gastronomy

Mexico is an affordable destination full of culture. From Mexico City to Cancun, there are many options to enjoy without spending too much. Here's how you can make your money go further in this beautiful country.

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

Flight and Lodging Costs

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

  • Flights: Round trip from $400 USD
  • Lodging: Hostels from $10 USD per night

Local Food and Gastronomy

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

  • Tacos: From $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 experience its culture and natural beauty. For example, you can visit the Zócalo and the Palacio de Bellas Artes 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 spending a lot.

  • Zócalo and Palacio de Bellas Artes: free admission
  • Cancun and Tulum Beaches: Free Access


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

2. Colombia: Nature and Adventure

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

Traveling to Colombia from Ecuador is an economical 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 Lodging Costs

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

  • Flights: Roundtrip from $200 USD
  • Lodging: Hostels from $10 USD per night

Local Food and Gastronomy

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

  • Arepas: From $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 the Tayrona National Natural Park, where the entrance fee is 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: Entrance fee $15 USD
  • Walled city of Cartagena: free admission
  • Santa Marta Beaches: Free access


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

3. Peru: History and Incredible Landscapes

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

Flight and Lodging Costs

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

  • Flights: Roundtrip from $300 USD
  • Lodging: Hostels from $15 USD per night

Local Food and Gastronomy

Peruvian cuisine is world famous and, fortunately, it is also affordable. You can enjoy traditional dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado and anticuchos for less than $10 USD at local markets and street stalls. In addition, many restaurants offer daily set menus that include a starter, main course and drink for about $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 get to know its rich history and natural landscapes. You can visit the historic center of Lima, which is a World Heritage Site, free of charge. You can also explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas and hike through its breathtaking scenery. Entrance to Machu Picchu can be a bit more expensive, but there are discounts for students and trekking options that include the entrance fee in the price.

  • Historic center of Lima: Free admission
  • Sacred Valley of the Incas: Free hikes
  • Machu Picchu: Entrance fee from $50 USD (with discounts for students)


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

Discover the World Without Breaking the Bank

Traveling from Ecuador on a budget of less than $1,000 USD is entirely possible and full of opportunities. Throughout this article, we have explored fascinating destinations such as Mexico, Colombia and Peru, each offering a rich mix of culture, gastronomy and economic activities. These destinations are not only affordable, but also offer unforgettable experiences.

Mexico invites you to enjoy its vibrant culture and delicious food without spending too much. From Mexico City to the paradisiacal beaches of Cancun and Tulum, there are options for every taste. Inexpensive flights and accommodations, along with a 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 affordable, allowing you to enjoy traditional dishes without spending too much.

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

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