Traveling the world doesn’t necessarily mean you have to empty your pockets. In 2025, there are plenty of stunning destinations where you don’t have to exhaust all your money at once, allowing you to enjoy rich cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine without splurging. Whether you’re a backpacker, a budget-conscious traveller, or simply looking for affordable vacation spots, this list is for you. It has the 10 cheapest countries to travel in 2025 and it will help you plan an unforgettable trip.
1. Vietnam
Why visit this place? Vietnam, which offers a blend of vibrant cities, tranquil countryside, and stunning coastlines, is still among the most reasonably priced travel destinations in Southeast Asia.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $5–$15 (hostels/guesthouses), $20–$50 (mid-range hotels)
– Food: Enjoy pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls for just $1–$3.
– Transport: $1–$5 (local buses), $20–$30 (sleeper buses for long distances)
Top Experiences:
– Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter
– Cruise Ha Long Bay
– Visit the ancient town of Hoi An
– Trek Sapa’s rice terraces
2. India
Why Visit this place? India is a budget traveller’s paradise, it not only offers diverse landscapes, historic landmarks and rich heritage but also has low costs for food, transport, and stays.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $5–$15 (hostels/guesthouses), $20–$40 (budget hotels)
– Food: It starts from $1–$3 for the local delicacies like Dosa, Samosa, Pani Puri.
– Transport: $0.50–$5 (local trains/buses), $10–$30 (sleeper trains) also readily available auto and taxis.
Top Experiences:
– Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra
– Explore Goa’s beaches
– Discover Jaipur’s palaces
– Trek the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh
3. Nepal
Why Visit this place? Nepal is perfect for adventure lovers, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan views. Nepal offers some of the world’s best trekking at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $3–$10 (teahouses/hostels), $15–$30 (hotels)
– Food: $2–$5 (local meals), $10–$15 (Western food)
– Transport: $1–$5 (local buses), $20–$50 (domestic flights)
Top Experiences:
– Trek to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit
– Explore Kathmandu’s ancient Hindu and Buddhist sites like Kathmandu’s Durbar Square and Boudhanath Stupa.
– Visit Pokhara for paragliding and lakeside relaxation
4. Indonesia (Outside Bali)
Why Visit? While Bali is getting pricier, other Indonesian islands like Java, Sumatra, and Lombok remain extremely affordable.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $5–$15 (guesthouses), $20–$40 (beach bungalows)
– Food: Enjoy $2 nasi goreng (fried rice)
– Transport: $1–$5 (local buses), $10–$20 (ferries between islands)
Top Experiences:
– Hike Mount Bromo in Java for amazing sunrise
– Visit Borobudur Temple (World Largest Buddhist Temple)
– Relax on the Gili Islands (White Sand Beach)
– Explore Sumatra’s jungles
5. Bolivia
Why Visit? Bolivia is one of South America’s cheapest countries, offering surreal landscapes like the Uyuni Salt Flats and vibrant indigenous culture.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $5–$15 (hostels), $20–$40 (hotels)
– Food: Eat salteñas (savory pastries) for $1
– Transport: $1–$5 (local and affordable buses available)
Top Experiences:
– Visit Salar de Uyuni (world’s largest salt flat)
– Explore La Paz’s markets
– Discover Lake Titicaca
– Trek in Rurrenabaque’s Amazon region
6. Cambodia
Why Visit? Home to Angkor Wat, Cambodia is history-rich and wallet-friendly, with world-famous temples, beautiful beaches, and a low cost of living.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $3–$10 (hostels), $15–$30 (guesthouses)
– Food: Eat amok curry and fresh seafood for $3–$5.
– Transport: $1–$5 (tuk-tuks)
Top Experiences:
– Explore Angkor Wat in Siem Reap
– Relax in Kampot and Kep
– Visit Phnom Penh’s history museums
– Enjoy Koh Rong’s beaches
7. Sri Lanka
Why Visit? Sri Lanka offers stunning beaches, wildlife safaris, and ancient temples at a fraction of the cost of other tropical destinations.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $5–$15 (guesthouses), $20–$40 (beach hotels)
– Food: Enjoy $2 hoppers (local pancakes)
– Transport: $1–$5 (local trains), $10–$20 (intercity buses)
Top Experiences:
– Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Galle’s Dutch fort.
– Go on a safari in Yala National Park
– Surf in Arugam Bay
– Explore Galle’s colonial streets
8. Morocco
Why Visit? Morocco is an affordable gateway to Africa, with bustling souks, desert adventures, and stunning architecture. It blends African, Arab, and European influences.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $5–$15 (riads/hostels), $20–$50 (mid-range hotels)
– Food: Sip $1 mint tea and bargain
– Transport: $1–$5 (local buses), $10–$30 (trains between cities)
Top Experiences:
– Wander Marrakech’s medina
– Camp in the Sahara Desert
– Explore Chefchaouen’s blue streets
– Visit Fes’ ancient tanneries
9. Guatemala
Why Visit? Guatemala is Central America’s budget gem, with Mayan ruins, volcanic lakes, and colorful markets.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $5–$15 (hostels), $20–$40 (guesthouses)
– Food: Try Pupusas at $2
– Transport: $1–$5 (chicken buses), $10–$20 (shuttles)
Top Experiences:
– Hike Acatenango Volcano
– Visit Tikal’s Mayan ruins
– Explore Lake Atitlán’s villages
– Discover Antigua’s colonial charm
10. Egypt
Why Visit? Egypt is a dream for history lovers, with ancient pyramids, Nile cruises, and Red Sea diving—all at low costs.
Budget Breakdown:
– Accommodation: $5–$15 (hostels), $20–$50 (budget hotels)
– Food: Eat koshari (Egyptian street food) for $2.
– Transport: $1–$5 (local transport), $10–$30 (trains between cities)
Top Experiences:
– See the Pyramids of Giza and sphinx
– Cruise the Nile River
– Dive in the Red Sea (Dahab or Hurghada)
– Explore Luxor’s temples
Helpful Tips for Budget Travel in 2025
– Travel Off-Season: Avoid peak tourist times for lower prices.
– Eat Local: Street food is delicious and cheap.
– Use Public Transport: Buses and trains save money.
– Stay in Hostels/Guesthouses: Affordable and social.
– Bargain Respectfully: Haggling is common in many budget destinations.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing amazing experiences. These 10 cheapest countries to visit in 2025 offer incredible value, allowing you to explore the world without draining your savings. Whether you’re drawn to Southeast Asia’s beaches, South America’s landscapes, or Africa’s deserts, there’s a budget-friendly destination waiting for you. Go and explore!
