How many cities to visit: I advise
three to four cities on a one-to-two-week trip. Each one needs at least two nights to feel like more than a transit stop, and the roads are slow enough that a fifth stop eats your days in the car.
Choosing by travel style: If you want
nightlife, hostels and easy logistics, start with the capital metro area. If you want
surf, laid-back streets and cheaper food, favor the west coast. If you like
culture and plaza life, the south and central towns suit you, but you need a car. Pick one big city and two smaller ones for balance.
Daily costs: Budget
US$70 to 110 a day for a backpacker who uses hostels or simple guesthouses (US$30 to 60 a night for a dorm or basic room), eats at local kitchens and cooks occasionally. A plate of rice, beans and meat at a local spot …
read more 👉 How many cities to visit: I advise
three to four cities on a one-to-two-week trip. Each one needs at least two nights to feel like more than a transit stop, and the roads are slow enough that a fifth stop eats your days in the car.
Choosing by travel style: If you want
nightlife, hostels and easy logistics, start with the capital metro area. If you want
surf, laid-back streets and cheaper food, favor the west coast. If you like
culture and plaza life, the south and central towns suit you, but you need a car. Pick one big city and two smaller ones for balance.
Daily costs: Budget
US$70 to 110 a day for a backpacker who uses hostels or simple guesthouses (US$30 to 60 a night for a dorm or basic room), eats at local kitchens and cooks occasionally. A plate of rice, beans and meat at a local spot is US$8 to 14, and a beer is US$4 to 7. Midrange travelers should expect US$150 to 220.
Visit costs: A rental car runs
US$40 to 80 a day plus fuel and insurance, which is the biggest line item. Parking in old towns costs US$5 to 20 a day. Fort and museum entry is typically US$5 to 10, and guided walking tours are US$15 to 30. Highway tolls add up, so carry a toll tag from the rental agency.
Safety: Most visitor areas are comfortable, but
petty theft from parked cars is the main issue. Never leave bags visible, and use paid lots at night. Avoid unlit streets and quiet neighborhoods after dark, and use ride-hailing instead of walking long distances. Drivers can be aggressive, and roads have potholes.
Cultural notes: Greet people with a
“buenos días” or “buenas tardes” when entering shops, since skipping it comes across as rude. Learn basic Spanish, because it earns warmth. Tipping 15 to 20 percent is standard in restaurants. Weekends are social, with families filling plazas, and Sundays can mean closed shops. Carry some cash for small kiosks, and keep a power bank, since outages happen.