The 10 Cheapest South American Cities to Fly to From the UK in 2024

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If you're looking for unconventional vacation spots, the countries of South America should be at the top of your list. Here, you'll find everything true travellers cherish. Whether you admire incredible architecture, diverse cuisine, breathtaking landscapes, or rich cultural experiences — South America offers all of this in abundance.

Moreover, unlike more popular tourist destinations, South American countries remain affordable, from accommodation to daily expenses. Such trips won't break your budget. If you're concerned about the long-haul flight and the cost of airfare, there's good news: Many airlines offer direct flights and convenient connections from the UK, with prices that will pleasantly surprise you.

Let’s explore the cheapest South American cities accessible from UK airports. Whether you're aiming to visit the cheapest South American country or explore several budget-friendly destinations, this list will help you plan an unforgettable trip without breaking the bank.

#1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Rio de Janeiro is world-famous for its stunning landscapes, where mountains meet the ocean. With iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, this vibrant city offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and urban excitement. Brazil, one of the largest countries in South America, is packed with travel experiences, and Rio serves as a fantastic entry point for exploring the country.

British Airways offers direct flights from London, while TAP Air Portugal, Air France, and KLM provide connections via European cities, making Rio de Janeiro easily accessible from the UK.

📅 Best months to fly: November, February, and March, with flight prices dropping by 20–30% during these months.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Rio de Janeiro: from £429
Manchester to Rio de Janeiro: from £505
Birmingham to Rio de Janeiro: from £530
Edinburgh to Rio de Janeiro: from £525

#2. Cartagena, Colombia

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Cartagena, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is known for its colourful colonial architecture and vibrant street life. The historic walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making Cartagena a destination rich in culture and history. Combine that with beautiful beaches, and it’s easy to see why Cartagena is a favourite for budget-conscious travellers. Colombia, as one of the cheapest countries in South America, offers incredible value.

JetBlue offers some of the most affordable flights, while Air France, KLM, and Avianca provide alternative routes for UK travellers.

📅 Best months to fly: January, February, and March, when flights are 25–40% cheaper than regular prices.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Cartagena: from £429
Manchester to Cartagena: from £609
Birmingham to Cartagena: from £586
Edinburgh to Cartagena: from £627

#3. São Paulo, Brazil

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São Paulo, Brazil’s bustling metropolis, effortlessly combines modern skyscrapers with cultural landmarks and lush green spaces. Whether you’re exploring vibrant neighbourhoods like Vila Madalena or spending time in the iconic Ibirapuera Park, São Paulo has something for everyone. Despite being one of Brazil’s economic powerhouses, São Paulo is also one of the cheapest places to fly into South America.

For UK travellers, TAP Air Portugal offers competitive fares, with direct flights available from London through LATAM, Virgin Atlantic, and British Airways.

📅 Best months to fly: January, February, and March, when flights are 20–25% cheaper.

Roundtrip flights:

London to São Paulo: from £475
Manchester to São Paulo: from £485
Birmingham to São Paulo: from £530
Edinburgh to São Paulo: from £545

#4. Guayaquil, Ecuador

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Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, is a vibrant hub where modernity meets rich cultural heritage. Situated along the Guayas River, Guayaquil boasts bustling waterfronts, colourful neighbourhoods like Las Peñas, and a lively Malecón 2000 promenade. As one of the cheapest countries in South America to travel to, Ecuador offers incredible value. Guayaquil also serves as an excellent gateway for exploring the Amazon rainforest and the Andes.

Airlines such as JetBlue, Avianca, LATAM, KLM, and Iberia offer affordable flights to Guayaquil.

📅 Best months to fly: November, January, and March, with flight prices dropping by 30–40%.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Guayaquil: from £459
Manchester to Guayaquil: from £529
Birmingham to Guayaquil: from £672
Edinburgh to Guayaquil: from £696

#5. Lima, Peru

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Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, seamlessly blends colonial charm with modern flair. Known for its exquisite cuisine, historic architecture, and stunning coastal views, Lima is a top destination for those seeking cheap South America holidays without sacrificing quality. As a key destination South America travellers should not miss, Lima offers a rich cultural tapestry, from the ancient ruins of Huaca Pucllana to the bustling Miraflores district.

Affordable flights with Air France from Manchester (via Paris) start at £529, while Air Europe offers fares from London starting at £459. Avianca also provides reliable options for UK travellers.

📅 Best months to fly: February, March, and May, with flights 10–20% cheaper during these periods.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Lima: from £459
Manchester to Lima: from £529
Birmingham to Lima: from £531
Edinburgh to Lima: from £570

#6. Santiago, Chile

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Santiago, Chile’s sprawling capital, is nestled between the Andes and the Chilean Coast Range, offering stunning natural backdrops alongside a bustling urban environment. Recognised as one of the safest South American countries to visit, Santiago is an ideal holiday destination South America travellers will adore. The city is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, excellent wineries, and diverse neighbourhoods like Bellavista and Lastarria.

Direct flights from London with Air Canada and American Airlines make Santiago easily accessible, while LATAM offers additional options for UK travellers.

📅 Best months to fly: March, April, and May, with flight prices 15–25% cheaper during these months.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Santiago: from £562
Manchester to Santiago: from £653
Birmingham to Santiago: from £638
Edinburgh to Santiago: from £685

#7. Buenos Aires, Argentina

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Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is often hailed as the "Paris of South America" for its stunning European-style architecture and lively cultural scene. As the second-largest city in South America, Argentina offers a wide range of travel experiences, and Buenos Aires stands out as one of the most beautiful South American countries to visit. From the tango-filled streets of San Telmo to the trendy boutiques of Palermo, the city is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity.

UK travellers can fly to Buenos Aires with airlines like Turkish Airlines, Vueling, Air Europe, and Air Canada, offering a variety of affordable options.

📅 Best months to fly: February, March, and June, with flights 10–15% cheaper during these times.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Buenos Aires: from £612
Manchester to Buenos Aires: from £649
Birmingham to Buenos Aires: from £712
Edinburgh to Buenos Aires: from £708

#8. Montevideo, Uruguay

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Montevideo, Uruguay’s charming capital, is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and historic Ciudad Vieja, Montevideo is one of the safest South American countries to visit. This delightful city offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of parks, museums, and lively markets, making it a South America must see destination.

Flights to Montevideo are most affordable from London with LATAM, and from Manchester with KLM and Air France. These options provide multiple budget-friendly routes for UK travellers.

📅 Best months to fly: November, February, and March, with flights 10–15% cheaper during these periods.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Montevideo: from £600
Manchester to Montevideo: from £715
Birmingham to Montevideo: from £660
Edinburgh to Montevideo: from £780

#9. Cusco, Peru

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Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a gateway to some of South America’s most breathtaking tourist destinations. Nestled in the Andes, Cusco is renowned for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant local markets, and rich cultural heritage. As one of the top places to see South America, Cusco offers travellers an authentic glimpse into Peru’s fascinating history and stunning landscapes.

UK travellers can reach Cusco with airlines like Avianca, Iberia, and LATAM, offering convenient and affordable flight options. Whether you’re planning to trek to Machu Picchu or explore the Sacred Valley, Cusco is a must-see for anyone visiting South America.

📅 Best months to fly: February, March, April, and May, with flights 10–20% cheaper.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Cusco: from £576
Manchester to Cusco: from £648
Birmingham to Cusco: from £665
Edinburgh to Cusco: from £690

#10. Medellín, Colombia

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Medellín, Colombia’s vibrant second city, is celebrated for its pleasant climate, innovative urban development, and rich cultural life. Often referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring" for its temperate weather, Medellín is one of the cheapest South American countries to visit, offering exceptional value for travellers. The city is known for its lively plazas, bustling markets, and the famous Medellín Flower Festival.

Direct flights from London with JetBlue start at £514, while Air Europa, Avianca, and KLM offer additional affordable options. Whether you're exploring Medellín’s modern art scene or enjoying its nightlife, this city is a top pick among places to visit in Colombia.

📅 Best months to fly: January, February, and March, with flights 10–20% cheaper.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Medellín: from £514
Manchester to Medellín: from £610
Birmingham to Medellín: from £661
Edinburgh to Medellín: from £659

Bonus Destination: Mexico City, Mexico

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While this ranking focuses on South American countries, Mexico City is a compelling alternative for travellers seeking affordability and rich cultural experiences in Latin America. One of the region's most vibrant cities, Mexico City offers an incredible mix of historic sites, modern attractions, and world-class cuisine. From the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan to the bustling neighbourhoods of Roma and Condesa, there's no shortage of things to see and do.

Flights to Mexico City are available from UK cities with airlines like Iberia, KLM, Air France, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic. For the cheapest direct flights from London, Aeromexico offers excellent deals starting at £496.

📅 Best months to fly: January, February, and March, with flights 25–30% cheaper.

Roundtrip flights:

London to Mexico City: from £496
Manchester to Mexico City: from £589
Birmingham to Mexico City: from £624
Edinburgh to Mexico City: from £555

Conclusion

Now that you have the latest data on the cheapest South American cities to fly to from the UK in 2024, you're one step closer to an affordable adventure.

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>> See cheap flights from the UK to South America

FAQ

Is South America cheap to travel?

Yes, South America is considered one of the more affordable regions to travel. Countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru offer budget-friendly accommodations, food, and activities. Additionally, airfare to South American cities is often competitively priced, making it possible to explore without breaking the bank.

When is the cheapest time to fly to South America?

The cheapest time to fly to South America varies by city, but generally, flight prices drop during the shoulder seasons. For most destinations, including cities like Rio de Janeiro, Lima, and Cartagena, the cheapest months are between January and March. By flying during these months, you can save 20–30% or more on airfare.

What is the cheapest country to visit in South America?

Colombia is often considered the cheapest country to visit in South America, offering affordable accommodation, food, and transportation. Cities like Cartagena and Medellín are popular destinations for budget-conscious travellers. Colombia's combination of affordability and rich culture makes it an attractive option for exploring South America on a budget.

What is the cheapest city to fly into South America?

The cheapest city to fly into South America depends on your departure location. For UK travellers, cities like Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Cartagena (Colombia), and São Paulo (Brazil) often have the most affordable flight prices, especially when flying from London or Manchester during off-peak months.

What is the safest South American country to visit?

Uruguay and Chile are widely regarded as the safest countries to visit in South America. Santiago, Chile’s capital, and Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, are both known for their stable political climates and low crime rates, making them popular destinations for travellers seeking safety.

What airlines fly to Latin America?

Several airlines fly to Latin America from the UK, including British Airways, LATAM, TAP Air Portugal, Air France, KLM, Avianca, and JetBlue. These airlines offer direct and connecting flights to major Latin American cities such as Rio de Janeiro, Lima, and Mexico City.

Which airline is best for South America?

Several airlines offer excellent service to South America. For UK travellers, British Airways, LATAM, and Air France are popular choices for direct and connecting flights to major cities across South America. Additionally, TAP Air Portugal and KLM provide competitive fares and multiple routes.

What is the cheapest Latin American country to fly to?

From the UK, Brazil (Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo) and Colombia (Cartagena and Medellín) are often the cheapest Latin American countries to fly to. Flights to these destinations can start as low as £429 during the off-peak season, particularly from London or Manchester.

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