15 Bucket-List Experiences You Can Do On A Budget

Many people believe that bucket list experiences have to cost a fortune, but many experiences are surprisingly affordable. You can visit incredible destinations, see different cultures, and explore natural wonders on a budget. There are many of the world’s most rewarding travel experiences that are within reach for budget-conscious travelers.

These next destinations are once-in-a-lifetime experiences made even more enjoyable by the activities that can be enjoyed at little to no cost.

Explore Angkor Wat in Cambodia

Angkor Wat, one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological sites in the world, offers an unforgettable experience for a modest price. This sprawling temple complex offers a single-day pass, letting you see ancient stone carvings and grand structures like Khmer Empire art. Since this UNESCO World Heritage site is affordable, travelers looking to save can do so and stay in budget accommodations in nearby Siem Reap.

Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The road to Machu Picchu is as amazing as the abandoned citadel itself. The Inca Trail is a historic pathway through the Andes that can be explored with budget trekking companies that supply camping gear and food for relatively affordable prices. For those seeking a more affordable alternative or a scenic train ride, Ollantaytambo is on the map with an easier and more comfortable route to this iconic destination than high-end tours.

Experience the Northern Lights in Iceland

One of the most mesmerizing natural spectacles is seeing the Northern Lights. Iceland has great viewing locations without having to pay for a costly tour. To see the auroras, visit in the winter months and stay in budget accommodations outside of Reykjavík to save money while avoiding light pollution. The country’s dramatic landscapes can be explored with a rental car or using public transportation.

Enjoy a Safari in Kruger National Park

An affordable way to enjoy a safari is in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Unlike private reserves that are expensive, Kruger allows self-drive safaris where visitors can see elephants, lions, and rhinos from their own vehicles. Entry fees to the park are reasonable, and there are budget-friendly lodges and campsites at the park.

Walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain

The Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage is an excellent way of experiencing Spain’s countryside, history, and heritage. Pilgrims can walk at their own pace and stay in inexpensive hostels (albergues) built for pilgrims. The many small villages dotted along the route also offer budget meals, so this long-distance journey could be kept cheap and is a highly rewarding adventure.

Explore Bagan’s Temples in Myanmar

Myanmar’s ancient capital of Bagan has thousands of centuries-old temples spread across an open plain. An affordable and immersive way of exploring this vast archaeological site is by renting bicycles. The entry fee grants multiple days of access to watch both sunrise and sunset over the pagoda-dotted landscape.

Attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Every year in October, Albuquerque skies are designed with hundreds of hot air balloons. One of the most affordable ways to experience the joy of ballooning is at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Tickets to see the mass ascensions and special-shaped balloons are much cheaper than the price of an actual ride.

Swim in the Great Barrier Reef

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most extraordinary marine ecosystems that can be explored without an expensive liveaboard cruise. Cairns and Airlie Beach are the departure points for budget snorkeling and diving trips to vibrant coral reefs. Some tours even include equipment rentals, and lunch, making them a very cost-effective option for travelers who want to see this natural wonder.

Take Train Rides Throughout Sri Lanka

If you love train journeys and scenic routes, then Sri Lanka’s itinerary is full of those, and at an incredibly low cost. From Kandy to Ella, the ride goes through the misty tea gardens, rolling hills, and attractive villages. Cheap tickets and open windows that offer incredible views make this experience comparable to luxury train rides without the luxury price tag.

See the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt

There is no denying that Egypt’s ancient pyramids are one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Admission to the Pyramids of Giza is affordable and hiring a local guide is cheap and will provide you with greater context for their history. No expensive tours are required as public transportation or budget-friendly taxis provide easy access from Cairo.

Explore Cappadocia’s Landscapes

Fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings are the pride of Cappadocia, Turkey. Hot air balloon rides are quite the attraction, but walking or biking the holes and caves is cheaper. Within the caves, there are many guesthouses in Cappadocia which make for a memorable stay at reasonable rates.

Island-Hop in the Philippines

The Philippines is a paradise made up of crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and towering limestone cliffs, all of which do not require a fortune to see. Cebu, Siargao, and Palawan are within budget, thanks to public ferries and budget tours to hop islands. The costs are further reduced by staying in locally-run guest houses and eating at street markets, but none of the experience is lost.

Hike the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,000-mile outdoor adventure with very few expenses. You can take on short sections or travel for months sleeping in free or low-cost shelters along the way. This is a worthy challenge for hikers as they can meet fellow hikers along the way and explore the untouched wilderness.

Discover Petra’s Ancient Wonders

The Middle East’s most remarkable site is Jordan’s Petra, the lost city carved into rose-colored cliffs. Its fairy tale structures, mainly the Treasury and the Monastery, can only be accessed with a single entry ticket. The gateway town to Petra, Wadi Musa, has budget accommodations, and traditional Jordanian meals are an inexpensive taste of the local cuisine.

Visiting the Galápagos Islands Without a Cruise

Although the Galápagos Islands are an expensive destination, staying on inhabited islands instead of booking a cruise can make the visit affordable. The islands are connected by local ferries and inexpensive day tour excursions give you the chance to experience wildlife encounters with giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas. Choose locally-owned lodgings and patronize small eateries to cut costs.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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