Question 1

How much does it cost to fly from San Francisco to Latin America?

Accepted Answer

Flights from San Francisco to Buenos Aires 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 45-day backpacking trip through Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Santiago and 3 more cities cost?

Accepted Answer

For this 6-city itinerary covering Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Santiago, Lima, Cusco, La Paz, 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 Buenos Aires and La Paz?

Accepted Answer

This route spans the equator, so there's no single perfect window, you're chasing seasons. The general move: start in Buenos Aires in October-November (Southern Hemisphere spring, 20-25°C) and work north. By the time you hit Peru and Bolivia in November-December, you catch the tail end of dry season. The reverse works too, start in Lima in May and head south into Argentine autumn. Avoid Buenos Aires in January-February (28°C+, humid, everything closes for vacation) and the Andes in December-March (rain season, 216mm in Puno). Mendoza and Santiago are year-round viable but best March-May and September-November.

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 San Francisco?

Accepted Answer

For this route, you'll fly into Buenos Aires and return from La Paz. 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.

45 Days in Latin America from San Francisco

City-by-City Guide

Highlights

Free Things to Do

Budget Tips

Best Time to Visit

Ready to explore Latin America from San Francisco?