2020 will be gone in the blink of an eye thanks to the pandemic, putting to rest all our travel plans. Most of us are stuck at home getting used to life in the lockdown era and the rest of us are already planning our next adventure! International travel has taken a hit with majority of the countries imposing strict lockdown measures to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only has the pandemic destroyed the tourism industry, but the sudden job losses have put a dent on employment levels and saving bank accounts. 2021 will be a year of new trends, of economy travel and exploring lesser known destinations. And we bring to you the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in 2021!
All these gorgeous destinations have everything you’d want in a dream destination – stunning landscapes, scrumptious food and vibrant cultures. And they are some the cheapest countries to visit, especially for those looking to travel on a tight budget.
Cheapest countries to visit 2021 onwards
Ukraine
It is a country that doesn’t see many tourists. Probably because very few people speak English or due to its political instability. But Ukraine has some of the most unique spots to explore in Europe, the people are really hospitable and everything is super cheap!
From the breathtaking Tunnel of Love to the Carpathian Mountains, the country has all it takes to become a tourist hotspot. Explore Odessa, known for its beaches, catacombs and World War II relics. Or you can head to Lviv, located near the Polish border and explore architecture that is a rich blend of Polish and Astro Hungarian elements!
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $30
Laos
Laos is often over shadowed by its much popular neighbors, Thailand and Vietnam that command a lion’s share of tourism in the region. But for those looking to travel to Asia on a tight budget, Laos has plenty to offer. All major activities are very cheap and the best way to go about town is to rent a motorcycle and venture off into the countryside.
With increasing numbers of solo travelers and backpackers arriving there, the hostel infrastructure has picked up really well. And you should get plenty of economical options for stay. It is said to have some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Asia and is a hiker’s paradise.
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $35
Bolivia
It might not be a developed tourist destination but Bolivia is blessed with some of the most gorgeous landscapes you will ever come across. It is also one of the cheapest countries to visit in South America and immensely popular for its Uyuni Salt Flats. Some of the must visit places to visit are Lake Titicaca, La Paz, Madidi National Park, Sucre and Tiwanaku.
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $35
Cambodia
Yes, everybody knows it for the stunning Angkor Vat temple but the country is so much that just this temple complex. You will be mesmerized by places like the Southern Islands, Kampot Province, Siem Reap, and captivating islands off the coast.
If cultural immersion and local experiences is your calling, then Cambodia will charm you and cast a spell like no other place. It is also one of the cheapest countries to visit in the world and you can spend a month there for as little as $900!
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $35
Lithuania
The Republic of Lithuania is a small Baltic country located on the shores of the Baltic Sea. The underrated travel destination is yet to witness mass tourism but has plenty of sights to see, especially around Vilnius. The country is quite affordable as well and well suited for backpackers, solo travelers, and families looking to spend an economical international holiday.
Explore the beautiful European styled villages, walk through charming cobbled streets and escape the crowds in places like Kaunas, Klaipeda and Curonian Spit.
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $40
Guatemala
This exotic Central American country is a nature lover’s paradise that boasts of dense jungles, ancient ruins, volcanoes and a few serene yet gorgeous beaches. Indulge in walking tours as you stroll through colonial cities or visit the many outdoor cafes serving lip smacking local delicacies at throwaway prices. Local transportation is really cheap and you can move around a lot without burning a hole in your pocket.
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $40
Armenia
The country is still in nascent stages of development but that makes it a spot for international vacations. Discover soviet era relics dotted all over the landscape and wander off into the many nature trails in the countryside.
Armenia is not the run of the mill tourist spot and the initial batch of travelers will get to make the most of their trips there. It is also one of the cheapest countries to visit in Eastern Asia. Tourists can roam about freely throughout the country and indulge in culturally immersive experiences.
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $45
Namibia
Home to the breathtaking Sossusvlei, Namibia is another off-beat destination that is light on a traveler’s pocket. Namibia has plenty of great places to visit; like the Fish River Canyon, Deadvlei, Etosha National Park and Skeleton Coast. Contrary to popular belief that Namibia caters primarily to luxury travelers, the country does have a host of economical accommodations, affordable transportation and cheap local food.
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $50
Morocco
Located close to Europe, Morocco is a budget travelers’ destination that is packed with economical hostels, friendly locals and great food. Some of the top destinations include Marrakesh, Casablanca, Fes Asilah, High Atlas, Rabat and the desolate Sahara Desert. While in Morocco, you must try the desert safari, camel caravans, and camping under the starry sky.
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $55
Cuba
Keep your inhibitions about safety away as Cuba is high on the list of exotic international destinations to explore. It is a country that offers more than just pretty beaches; it is dotted with flourishing forests, serene offshore islands, crocodile swamps and rugged mountains.
Explore the Old Havana Eat streets and jive to the music to make your evenings lively. Take a classic car tour of the cities and meet the locals with adventurous walking tours! Cuba is magical and as one of the cheapest countries to visit, you can explore it on a shoe string budget.
Per person daily expense (food, stay and transport) – $60