Solo Travel in South America: Three Cities That Actually Work
Medellín, Florianópolis, and Buenos Aires all show up in 2026 research as workable solo destinations. Here is what the data confirms about prices and safety. The post Solo Travel in South America: Three Cities That Actually Work appeared first on The Rio Times .
Three cities in South America stand out as good choices for solo travelers in 2026, according to recent travel guides and advisories.
First is Medellín, Colombia. The U.S. State Department advises travelers to reconsider visiting due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping risks. However, Medellín is still considered one of Colombia's top destinations for solo travelers. Dorm beds in the city's main backpacker zones cost between COP 30,000 and COP 70,000 per night, translating to roughly US$7.50 to US$17.50.
Neat and safe neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles are recommended for foreigners. Hostels such as Casa Almarita and La Familia Hostel Manila offer dorms starting at COP 30,000 and COP 35,000, respectively.
Next is Florianópolis, Brazil. Travelers receive a top-10 ranking for being one of the safest major Brazilian cities for digital nomads, based on official crime data. Hostel dorms in Florianópolis typically cost around €20 per night, or about US$22. The island's hostel scene is social, with many dorms located right on the water, which is popular among solo travelers.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office warns against all but essential travel to specific river areas of Amazonas state. However, this warning does not apply to Florianópolis or most of Santa Catarina.
Lastly, Buenos Aires, Argentina, is highlighted as one of South America's most affordable backpacking destinations. With a daily budget of US$25–40, travelers can cover a dorm bed, food, transit, and nightlife. Dorm beds in mixed dorms at Milhouse Hostel on Avenida de Mayo start at US$11 per night. Central hostel dorms generally range from US$11 to US$15.
More private options include central hotels in Monserrat, Recoleta, and San Telmo, which cost around US$32–56 per night. As of August 2026, U.S., UK, EU, Canadian, and Australian citizens can enter Argentina visa-free for 90 days. However, the research does not provide any safety advisories for Argentina from foreign ministries.
Written by urgent.news from The Rio Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
