Question 1

How much does it cost to fly from Boston to Latin America?

Accepted Answer

Flights from Boston to Bogota typically range from $400-800 for round-trip depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Budget airlines and connecting flights are usually cheaper. We recommend booking 6-8 weeks ahead for the best prices.

Question 2

How much does a 21-day backpacking trip through Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena and 1 more cities cost?

Accepted Answer

For this 4-city itinerary covering Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, Santa Marta, expect to spend around $‍31 per day on ground costs (hostels, local transport, food, and activities). Flight costs vary by your departure city, typically ranging from $800-1,800 for round-trip international flights.

Question 3

What's the best time to visit Bogota and Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

Colombia's geography makes "best season" a choose-your-own-adventure. Bogotá sits at 2,600m and stays 19-21°C year-round, always bring a jacket. Medellín earns its "eternal spring" title with 25-27°C daily. The coast (Cartagena, Santa Marta) is hottest January through March (30-32°C) with dry skies. December through March is the safest bet for the full circuit, dry season on the coast, comfortable in the highlands. April and October are the rainiest months, especially in Bogotá (164mm) and Medellín. June through August works too, it's a minor dry season called veranillo and prices dip.

Question 4

Do I need a visa for this route?

Accepted Answer

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Most travelers from the US, Canada, UK, and Australia can visit Latin America visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check current requirements before booking, as rules can change.

Question 5

How do I get between cities on this route?

Accepted Answer

The most budget-friendly options are buses and trains. In Latin America, budget airlines also offer cheap fares if booked in advance. For flexibility, consider a rail pass if traveling through the region. Inter-city transport typically costs $15-40 per journey.

Question 6

Are hostels safe for solo travelers?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Hostels are generally very safe and are the go-to accommodation for solo travelers. Look for hostels with good ratings (8.0+), lockers for valuables, and active common areas to meet other travelers. Female-only dorms are available at many hostels for added comfort.

Question 7

How much spending money do I need per day?

Accepted Answer

Budget travelers typically spend $‍31 per day including accommodation, food, and activities. This assumes staying in hostel dorms ($15-25/night), eating street food and cooking sometimes, and doing mostly free activities. Add extra for entrance fees, tours, and nightlife.

Question 8

What's the best airport to fly into from Boston?

Accepted Answer

For this route, you'll fly into Bogota and return from Santa Marta. Open-jaw tickets (flying into one city and out of another) are often cheaper than round-trips and save you a return journey. Compare prices on flight aggregators for the best deals.

21 Days in Latin America from Boston

City-by-City Guide

Ready to explore Latin America from Boston?