Retire in South America

With the cost of living on the rise in places like North America, people are starting to consider retiring abroad. Recently, many countries in South America have become popular destinations to become retired. Whether you are ready for retirement or just day-dreaming about it and looking for now for some nice South America tour, check out our list of the best places to retire in South America. They all attract tourists with their weather, welcoming local people and an excellent standard of living.

1. Uruguay

First, we have Uruguay! Uruguay is one of the best places to retire in South America because of its relaxing, beautiful scenery. Maybe one of the reasons why it’s so on-demand for retirees from the US or Europe is that its culture is very similar to theirs so the assimilation process goes smoothly.

Also, Uruguay is pretty small which is convenient if you are looking for a place to live and some holiday spots close home. Like any country, there are different areas where real estate is more cost-effective; but overall, Uruguay is an affordable place to live. Uruguayans are very friendly and welcoming to foreigners and with the well-established expatriate community, foreigners have a greater sense of comfort. The best places to visit and live in Uruguay are:

Punta del Este

It’s a popular holiday destination for many Uruguayans and if you enjoy beautiful warm waters, this seaside city is the ideal place to retire. Here you can find a variety of restaurants, shops, beaches and even a casino to keep you entertained. During the high season, the city is full of energy and during the low season, the pace slows down, creating a great balance year-round.

Punta del Este has quite a vibrant lifestyle with night clubs, golf courses, surfing clubs etc. Many foreigners invest in modern residential towers with their own security, gyms, swimming pools. Apart from luxury residential buildings, you can still find cheaper properties in the older part of the city or single-family homes in the suburbs. Punta del Este is not only the best place to retire in South America but also, one of the happiest cities in South America.

To avoid crowds of people during the summer season in Uruguay you can find your home in nearby Maldonado which is just 10 min away by car. Besides, property taxes there tend to be lower and you can save some money doing shopping on local farmer’s markets. Before you travel to Uruguay you should check out the best time to visit, as Uruguay does have a winter season.

Colonia del Sacramento

Colonia del Sacramento was founded by the Portuguese in the 17th century so for sure the most attractive part of the city is a colonial historic center listed as one of the UNESCO heritage sites. This city has around 26 000 people which is a perfect size if you look for the best place to retire in South America that is not too big but at the same time not empty. It tends to be more visited by Argentines since it’s just 1 hour away from Buenos Aires taking a ferry.

Even during wintertime, you can spot many tourists walking around the cobblestone streets of the downtown. If you are looking for colonial architecture and dream about filling your new Spanish style house with some antiques that might be the best place for you! You just have to keep in mind that the lifestyle is very calm here. Good thing is that the cost of living is much lower than in Punta del Este and there are many fresh local products you can get like cheese and great wines!

Montevideo

As every capital, Montevideo has many more options for you to look for the best place to retire in South America. It’s quite a big city with a population of close to 2 million people so it’s very commercial and offers typical things a big city has. Montevideo’s life is calm and active at the same time. You can relax on the beach by the river, there are lots of parks and green squares and many cultural events. There is the famous Solis Theatre in the city, Tango and Candombe culture, fish markets.

The best areas to buy properties would be the old center in one of the renovated buildings or the more modern neighborhood called Pocitos. The cost of living in Montevideo is quite high compared to other areas of South America but the standards of urban living are quite high as well. Public transportation is great and more importantly, no serious safety issues to be concerned about.

2. Colombia

Just a flight away from many cities in the United States is Colombia. Colombia ranks high number on the best places to retire in South America list. This diverse country is steadily growing in popularity and is the new hotspot for those seeking a unique place to live. Colombia is one of the most affordable countries in South America. A couple living there can get by comfortably on around $1,200 USD per month, according to International Living.

Not only is the cost of living low, but Colombia offers some of the best and most affordable health care in South America. Similar to Uruguay, Colombia has seen a large increase in ex-pat communities in cities like Medellin and Bogota, and Colombians are known for being incredibly friendly and welcoming to foreigners. As one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world, Colombia offers a range of geography from beautiful beaches to lush jungles and mountains. The places you might want to check out in Colombia are:

Cartagena

For those seeking a Caribbean lifestyle, make your way to Cartagena along the coast in Northern Colombia. Although it has become more modern, Cartagena does not lack in old colonial charm which was appreciated by UNESCO that put it on the list of cultural heritage sites. Stroll along cobblestone streets, past colorful historical buildings, and feel a step back in time.

Cartagena is a big city with many tourists visiting year-round. You need to like crowds if you want to stay here long. There are plenty of hotels, resorts, AirBnBs that are full almost every season. The old colonial part of the city is a perfect place for all kinds of entertainment.

However, the best place to buy a property would be outside of the old town in Bocagrande and Manga neighborhoods. Probably the best thing about Cartagena is its great Caribbean weather. Who does not want tropical warm weather every day of the year? And good thing is that it’s not a hurricanes risk area.

Medellin

Many people associate Medellin with crime and drugs however those tend to be showed more now in reality TV rather than in present life. Medellin has changed a lot during the last years and it was voted “Innovative City of the Year” in 2013 and “One of the Best Cities to Live in Latin America” in 2014. The city has perfect weather as well which is a great plus for the best places to retire in South America. It’s called the City of Eternal Spring and City of Flowers.

If your idea of retirement is active and enjoying nature that might be a place for you! There are many things to do in Medellin. Enjoy the Andes mountains, lakes, nearby coffee and plantains plantations, hiking trails, and rafting opportunities. Two neighborhoods popular with ex-pats are Laureles and El Poblado. They both have modern residential buildings with security, gyms, pools, mountain-view terraces, etc.

The city is full of life with many restaurants, top boutique shops, shopping centers, theatres, museums, parks. It’s the only city in Colombia that constructed a metro system so communication in a city is quite easy. Top qualities that make it one of the best places to retire in South America are great and cheap health care system and low cost of living.

Coffee Region

The Coffee Region in Colombia consists of mountainous areas. The three main areas are the big cities of Armenia, Manizales, and Pereira. This is a pure paradise if you dream about retiring cultivating coffee or enjoying lush green landscapes of mountains and volcanoes.

One of the most attractive destinations for foreigners is the small town of Salento. This town is close to the famous Cocora Valley. Salento has just over 8000 inhabitants which do not mean it’s a quiet place at all. On the contrary, always full of visitors attracted by colonial architecture taken from the 19th-century soap opera.

It will be one of the best places to retire in South America if you are looking for a slow pace living, nature, gardening, maybe cultivating some local products. The town does not offer high-rise residential complexes however why not spend your living enjoying a small house with a garden?

3. Ecuador

In recent years Ecuador has become of the best places to retire in South America. One of the main reasons is that the cost of living is very low and affordable. Many couples can live comfortably on a budget of around $1500 USD per month. Ecuadorians are friendly and good-natured people and many speak English making it easier for foreigners. Consider taking some Spanish courses in Quito or Cuenca and fully immerse yourself in the culture.

Ecuador’s public transit system is very efficient, eliminating the need to own your own car. Cities are fairly close and easily accessible by bus.  Just the beautiful landscapes and scenery alone are enough to convince anyone to retire in Ecuador. The places you might want to check out in Ecuador are:

Quito

Quito is the second-highest situated capital in South America with an elevation of over 9350 feet over the sea level. Take into account the high altitude when looking for the best place to retire in South America. Make sure your health conditions will allow you to stay there for longer. Apart from that if you are into colonial architecture, living in a calm but not too small city (over 2 million people) and low cost of living Quito is a place for you!

Quito has many possibilities for comfortable living and this nice combination of modern and old. It offers a great and cheap healthcare system, some not expensive upscale neighborhoods with condo apartments like La Paz, La Carolina, La Floresta. The capital might be known for many indigenous people living there however it’s quite a cosmopolitan place as well with many ex-pats coming from Europe, North America, and even Asia.

Cuenca

Cuenca is one of the most developing cities in Ecuador. It’s much smaller than Quito however still big enough to offer everything you need. It’s known for its culture and artistic vibe but also for the beautiful nature that surrounds the city. There are so many things to do in Cuenca, like Cajas National Park with over 200 lakes!

Many people from the US chose it for their second home that’s why there are already many restaurants, hotels, shops run by North Americans. Foreigners do not find it difficult to buy properties in Cuenca since they have almost the same rights as locals when it comes to owning real estate. In general, condo prices in Cuenca might vary on average from 80 000 to 140 000 USD.

Salinas

Salinas is located on the Pacific coast of Ecuador and it’s one of the most upscale resort areas on the coast. It’s located only 2 hours from Guayaquil, the biggest city in the country and the major international airport. Salinas is not big however still, during high season the beaches might be crowded.

It offers a warm climate year-round, lots of adventure water sport, great seafood restaurants, modern coffee shops, and malls. You can buy yourself a nice condo overlooking the sea for just over 150 000 USD. That is quite a good price if you look for the best place to retire in South America!

Start planning your pre-retirement trip to South America today! Contact our Ecuador Travel Expert and share your retirement dreams with us! 

5 Great South America Vacations for Seniors

Updated: September 24th, 2020

South America is full of natural beauty, friendly people, gorgeous beaches, and awe-inspiring landmarks. For those over 50, a South America tour should not be a daunting task. There are plenty of great South America tours for seniors to enjoy. We can create the best tailor-made itineraries combining any of the destinations below, which we think are the best ones for seniors visiting our beautiful continent:

Recommended destination for Seniors # 1:  Buenos Aires, Argentina 

Captivating Buenos Aires is regarded as the Paris of South America. The Argentine capital is a bustling metropolis featuring grandeur government buildings, opulent hotels, museums and theatres, world-class restaurants, and lively cultural events. Known worldwide as Tango’s birthplace, many visit the city to experience the sexy and melancholic dance. Witness live tango shows on quaint street corners in La Boca, or during a candle-lit dinner (while enjoying a proper Argentine steak) at one of the many lounges in the city. This is our number one destination for Seniors interested in wine, food, history, architecture, parks, or classical/contemporary art, as Buenos Aires has everything and more to offer visitors. We typically recommend at least three nights for a good overview of the city, and most of our Argentina tours will include some time in the capital. A perfect combination of Buenos Aires would be our Tango, Samba & Waterfalls tour.

Recommended destination for Seniors # 2: Patagonia Cruise

Patagonia is a vast region of South America, shared with Chile and Argentina. Nicknamed the “End of the World,” the area is a breath-taking array of diverse landscapes, pristine lakes, and unique rock formations. Patagonia is a great destination for seniors that’d like to add on a bit of adventure to their itinerary, at your own pace, as you can hike, trek, horseback ride all day, as well as visiting the highlights with your own transportation and then head back for a relaxing evening at your cozy mountain hotel.

While the area is popular with hiking, another sought-after method of exploring Patagonia is by cruise. On a cruise expedition of Patagonia, travelers will get to experience all the remarkable qualities of Patagonia, from its untouched wildlife to its stunning fjords, all from the comfort of a cruise. This is a great tour option for seniors, since while you will have shore excursions everyday, activities are divided in two groups based on fitness, so passengers can choose to walk very mildly if needed. 

From Punta Arenas to Ushuaia, the journey will cover the highlights of Patagonia, and even sites less visited, accessible only by cruise. Cruises operate from September to April. It would be best to combine one with other highlights of Patagonia, such as Torres del Paine, the Glacier Region (El Calafate), and Ushuaia. The Patagonia Deluxe Tour is an excellent option that combines all. And if you are up for more time exploring this beautiful region, check out our Classic Patagonia Tour. 

Recommended destination for Seniors # 3: The Peruvian Amazon

Take a Peru Amazon Rainforest Tour to encounter an abundance of plant and animal species found nowhere else in the world. The Peruvian Amazon is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and has better opportunities for bird-watching and wildlife viewing than the Brazilian or Colombian Amazon. There are three primary rainforests of Peru: Iquitos in the north, Manu in the central region, and Puerto Maldonado in the south. 

The Peruvian Amazon is a great destination for seniors due to its closeness to other major destinations in Peru, such as Machu Picchu and Cuzco, so that would make your traveling experience less expensive and easier compared to other jungle destinations in South America.

Puerto Maldonado is the most comfortable and most convenient region to reach, with flights arriving from Cusco and Lima. In this area, you will find several all-inclusive jungle lodges, perfect for exploring the Amazon. Enjoy luxury amenities and excursions, while surrounded by the wild nature of the Amazon. 

Our preferred accommodation for seniors is the gorgeous Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Lodge, which you can visit for 2, 3, or 4 nights in our different packaged tours. This lodge, in particular, is located 45 minutes away from the Airport of Puerto Maldonado. For those who prefer to be further isolated, deep into the jungle, there is the Refugio Amazonas (located 2 hours away from the Airport) and Tambopata Research Center (located 3.5 hours from the Airport) – an ideal lodge for birdwatchers. 

The Peruvian Amazon can easily be combined with a short trip to the wondrous Cusco & Machu Picchu, Peru’s most famous highlights. You can check out more info here: Amazon & Machu Picchu Tour.

Recommended destination for Seniors # 4: Wine Country

South America has one of the best “New World” wine regions on the planet, shared by Chile, Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. Particularly in Chile and Argentina, travelers have an incredible section of wine regions and wineries. Differentiating in size, climate, and views, there is something unique and exciting about each wine region and its specialty wines. From Santiago de Chile, Chile’s capital city, or Mendoza, Argentina, hundreds of wineries are open for tours and tastings. 

The wine country in South America is the perfect place for Seniors, since you can sit back and relax visiting some of South America’s best wineries, from large production companies to small boutique vineyards, lost in the Andres countryside.

In Chile, near Santiago, there are two central regions: Colchagua, 2.5 hours from the city, and Casablanca. Colchagua is most famous for its full-bodied red wines, featuring excellent Carmenere, Syrah and Malbec wines. Traveling west towards the Pacific Coast, we find Casablanca, the second most crucial wine valley, famous for its white wines such as Sauvignon Blancs and Chardonnays. 

Across the Andes, over to Argentina, we find Mendoza, a beautiful city surrounded by two wine valleys: Lujan de Cuyo and Uco Valley, both of which are famous for their red wines, particularly Malbec. You can visit both countries in our Chile and Argentina Wine Tour. Our most popular wine tour combines both countries and Uruguay and a Buenos Aires city tour: The South America Wine Tour. 

Recommended destination for Seniors # 5: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Known worldwide as the “marvelous city” or cidade maravilhosa, Rio de Janeiro is Brazil’s number one destination and one of the liveliest and most beautiful cities on the planet. 

Rio is a great destination for Seniors looking for a real city experience, immersing yourself in Brazilian history and culture.

Experience one of the world wonders, Christ the Redeemer, from Ipanema’s scenic shopping district and at the statue’s feet atop Corcovado Mountain. Catch the sunset while on a scenic funicular over SugarLoaf mountain. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a hike through Tijuca Forest, the most significant urban park in the world. Relax alongside rare flora and fauna in the gorgeous Botanical Gardens. And last but not least, enjoy a dip in the ocean at any of the city’s famous beaches: Copacabana, Ipanema and many more. 

Most of our Brazil Tours will include a few days exploring this unique city. Additionally, combine Rio de Janeiro with some nearby tropical beaches outside the metropolis. We recommend our Rio & the Tropical Islands tours.

Check out our website for more excellent South America trip ideas