Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Nepal, India, Pakistan, Albania, Bolivia, the Philippines, and Tunisia are the cheapest countries to visit as of this year. You can find return flights from Abuja for $600 to $900 and hotel rooms for $8 to $25 per night.
A two-week trip including flights and accommodation costs between $900 and $1500 per person if you book strategically.
I’m Chidi from the WakaAbuja team. Last year, I landed in Hanoi with $400 in my pocket and survived 12 days without touching a credit card. That trip taught me one thing: the difference between a cheap destination and an expensive one is not the flight cost.
It is how far your naira goes once you arrive. This guide lists ten countries where your daily budget stays under $30 including a private room, three meals, and local transport. I have included realistic flight prices from Abuja and Lagos, plus hotel examples you can verify on Booking.com or Agoda as of early this year.
Jump to: Vietnam | Laos | Cambodia | Nepal | India | Pakistan | Albania | Bolivia | Philippines | Tunisia | FAQ
Key takeaways
- Vietnam and Laos offer the lowest daily spend: $15 to $20 for a private room, street food, and a scooter rental. Use Agoda to find rooms under $12 in tourist districts.
- Flight prices from Abuja to Asia drop 20% when you book on Tuesdays and travel mid-week. Compare on Kayak before buying.
- Albania is Europe’s cheapest beach destination. A meal on the Riviera costs $6, and a seaview apartment via Vrbo is $25 a night.
- Pakistan’s Hunza Valley is safer than most news suggests. Guesthouses run $10 with breakfast. Fly into Islamabad from Abuja via Dubai on Expedia packages.
- Bolivia and Nepal require altitude acclimatization but reward you with $5 guided treks and $3 set dinners.
- Book flight+hotel bundles on Hotels.com or Booking.com to save 10-15% compared to separate bookings.
- Tunisia has direct flights from Tunisair and Air Algérie via Algiers. A night in a medina hotel costs $18.
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1. Vietnam: Can you really live on $15 a day?
Yes, and comfortably. I spent a week in Hanoi’s Old Quarter paying $9 per night for a double room with AC and a window. A bowl of pho costs $1.50, and a bia hoi (fresh beer) is 40 cents. Flights from Abuja to Hanoi start at $750 round trip as of early this year if you transit through Doha or Istanbul. Use Expedia to search for bundles that include a night in Doha for free.
Fatima, our Lagos correspondent, took a sleeper bus from Hanoi to Da Nang for $18. She says, “The bus had wifi and a blanket. I saved two nights of hotel costs.” The best deal is a scooter rental for $5 per day. You can explore the Hai Van Pass without a tour.
Chidi’s honest take: “Vietnam is cheaper than a local market in Abuja. But avoid the tourist pho shops near Hoan Kiem Lake. Walk two blocks inward, and the price drops from $3 to $1.”
Pros
- Street food is safe and fresh and costs under $2 per meal.
- Hostels with swimming pools exist for $12 in Hoi An.
- Domestic flights from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City are $35 on VietJet.
Cons
- Visa required for Nigerians. E-visa costs $25 but takes 5 working days.
- Traffic in major cities is chaotic. First-time riders should avoid scooters.
Best for: Solo backpackers and digital nomads who want reliable wifi and endless street food variety.
2. Laos: Where can you find $10 hotels and $2 waterfalls?
Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng are the anchors of budget travel in Laos. A private bungalow with a river view costs $10 to $15 on Agoda. The Kuang Si Waterfall entrance is $2.50, which includes a bear rescue center. Flights from Abuja to Vientiane are cheaper if you fly to Bangkok first, then take a $40 flight with Lao Airlines or a $25 overnight bus.
I stayed in Vang Vieng for five nights and spent $90 total on accommodation, food, and a two-day kayaking trip. The local dish laap (minced meat salad) costs $1.50 at night markets. Beer Lao is $1 a bottle.
Fatima’s honest take: “The slow boat from the Thai border to Luang Prabang costs $22 for two days, including a stop at a village homestay. That was more memorable than any hotel.”
Pros
- Very few crowds compared to Thailand or Vietnam.
- Free temple entry in most towns.
- Tuk-tuk rides across town are $1 to $2.
Cons
- Landlocked: no beaches. River swimming only.
- ATM fees are high. Bring USD or kip in cash.
Best for: Travelers who love caves, waterfalls, and slow-paced river towns.
3. Cambodia: Is Angkor Wat worth the $37 entry fee?
Yes, and you can offset it by staying in Siem Reap for $8 a night. I used Booking.com to find a guesthouse with a pool for $11. The three-day Angkor pass is $62, but the one-day pass is $37. Rent a bicycle for $2 to explore the small circuit. Flights from Abuja to Phnom Penh via Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City cost $700 to $850 round trip.
Food is cheaper than in Vietnam. A fish amok curry with rice is $2.50. A pint of Angkor beer is 75 cents. The killing fields and Tuol Sleng museum in Phnom Penh cost $6 combined but include an audio guide that is worth every cent.
Chidi’s honest take: “Many bloggers say Cambodia is cheaper than Vietnam. That is false. Vietnam wins for food. But Cambodia wins for friendly locals and uncrowded temples.”
Pros
- USD is widely accepted. No need for currency exchange.
- Kampot has cheap pepper farms and river bungalows for $15.
Cons
- Scams at the Angkor ticket office. Only buy from official counters.
- Some roads are dusty and potholed. Rent a motorbike carefully.
Best for: History lovers and temple chasers on a shoestring.
4. Nepal: How cheap are the Everest base camp treks?
The trek itself is not free, but daily costs in Kathmandu and Pokhara are laughably low. A basic hotel room near Thamel is $5 to $10. A plate of dal bhat (lentils, rice, and vegetable curry) costs $2 and comes with unlimited refills. Flights from Abuja to Kathmandu via Doha or Dubai are $750 to $900 round trip. Use Kayak to set a price alert.
Permits for the Annapurna Circuit cost $30, and teahouse lodging along the trail is $3 to $7 per night. A cup of ginger tea at 4000 meters is $1. I did a 10-day Poon Hill trek for $280 including guide, permits, and meals. That is cheaper than a weekend in Lagos.
Fatima’s honest take: “You do not need a guide for the main trails; Maps.me works offline. Save $25 per day by walking alone.”
Pros
- Visa on arrival for Nigerians: $30 for 30 days.
- Local buses between cities cost $5 for a six-hour ride.
Cons
- Altitude sickness is real. Acclimatize slowly.
- WiFi in teahouses costs extra and is slow.
Best for: Hikers and mountaineers on a strict budget.
5. India: Which state gives you the most bang for your money?
Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. In Pushkar, a private room with a terrace costs $6. A thali at a local joint is $1.50. Flights from Abuja to Delhi or Mumbai range from $650 to $800 round trip. Check Expedia for deals via Addis Ababa or Doha. Indian Railways has sleeper class tickets for 200 rupees ($2.40) between Jaipur and Jodhpur.
I spent a month in Rishikesh learning yoga. Accommodation in an ashram costs $120 for the whole month, including three vegetarian meals daily. A one-hour massage was $5. The only expensive item was the flight. Once you land, your wallet breathes.
Chidi’s honest take: “India can be overwhelming. The noise and smell hit you at the airport. But after two days, you will love the chaos. And the prices.”
Pros
- Digital payments with UPI are accepted everywhere. No cash needed.
- Ayurvedic treatments cost 10% of Western spa prices.
Cons
- Delhi belly is common. Drink only bottled or boiled water.
- Train tickets sell out weeks early. Book online via IRCTC.
Best for: Culture fans who do not mind crowds and honking horns.
6. Pakistan: Is the Hunza Valley safe and cheap?
https://www.instagram.com/pakistantravelplaces/
Yes to both. The Hunza Valley is safer than most European cities. Crime against tourists is almost zero. A guesthouse in Karimabad costs $10 including breakfast. A full chicken curry meal is $3. Flights from Abuja to Islamabad start at $700 via Dubai or Doha. From Islamabad, a 24-hour bus to Hunza costs $15 on the new Karakoram Highway.
We spoke to Ade, a WakaAbuja reader who traveled to Skardu last year. He said, “People offered me free food and asked to take selfies. I never felt unsafe. And a cup of walnut cake with tea was 60 cents.”
Ade’s honest take: “The only hard part was getting the visa. Apply at the Pakistan embassy in Abuja two months ahead. They want a letter of invitation from a local tour operator.”
Pros
- World-class mountain scenery without Swiss prices.
- Apricots and walnuts grow everywhere. You can eat from trees for free.
Cons
- Internet is slow and sometimes shut down for security reasons.
- Alcohol is banned in most of the country. Bring none.
Best for: Adventurous trekkers who want empty trails and extreme hospitality.
7. Albania: Can you still find $20 beachfront rooms in Europe?
Yes, in Ksamil and Himara. As of late this year, a room 200 meters from the beach costs $22 on Vrbo. A seafood platter for two is $12. A glass of local wine is $2. Flights from Abuja to Tirana are the catch: the cheapest route is Abuja to Rome (Ethiopian Airlines) and then a $40 Ryanair flight to Tirana. Total return around $850.
I stayed in Berat, the city of a thousand windows, for $15 a night. The hostel owner cooked dinner for guests and charged $5 for soup, salad, and lamb. The public beach in Durres is free. Albania is the last cheap country in Europe. That will change within two years.
Chidi’s honest take: “Skip the expensive Greek islands. Cross the border to Albania and get the same Ionian sea for one third the price.”
Pros
- Nigerians can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Free camping is allowed on many beaches.
Cons
- English is not widely spoken outside tourist zones.
- Public buses are old and follow no schedule.
Best for: Europeans seeking a budget beach escape or Nigerians wanting a taste of the Mediterranean without the euro shock.
8. Bolivia: Is the Salar de Uyuni tour worth $120 for three days?
Absolutely. That $120 includes transport, a guide, meals, and basic hostel accommodation on the salt flats. A single bed in La Paz goes for $7. A set lunch menu (soup, main, drink) is $2.50. Flights from Abuja to La Paz are the most expensive on this list: $1100 to $1300 return via Madrid or São Paulo. Use Kayak to find deals with Copa Airlines through Panama.
Once you arrive, your money triples in value. A taxi across La Paz costs $1.50. A private room in Copacabana on Lake Titicaca is $12. The death road bike tour is $40 including gear and lunch. Bolivia is not for luxury travelers. It is for people who trade comfort for adventure.
Fatima’s honest take: “Altitude sickness hit me at 4000 meters. Spend two days in La Paz drinking coca tea before the salt flats. That advice saved my trip.”
Pros
- World’s largest salt flat with surreal photo ops.
- Cheapest country in South America for guided tours.
Cons
- Long flights from Nigeria. Consider a stopover in Brazil.
- Cold nights. The salt flat hostel has no heating.
Best for: Photographers and budget adventurers who do not fear high altitude.
9. Philippines: Which island is cheapest for a family?
Palawan and Siquijor. A beachfront hut in El Nido costs $25 for two people. A tricycle ride across town is 50 cents. A family meal of grilled pork, rice, and vegetables is $6. Flights from Abuja to Manila are $900 to $1100 round trip, but you can get a $30 domestic flight to Puerto Princesa on Cebu Pacific. Use Agoda for resort deals.
I traveled with my cousin’s family of four. We spent $60 per day total on accommodation, food, and island-hopping tours. The tours are the real value: a full-day boat trip with lunch is $15 per person. The water is warm and clear. No wetsuit needed.
Chidi’s honest take: “The flights hurt. But once you land, a fresh mango shake costs $1, and the beaches beat Thailand at half the crowd.”
Pros
- Everyone speaks English. No language barrier.
- Ferries between islands cost $5 to $15.
Cons
- Typhoon season from June to November. Avoid those months.
- Some islands have no ATMs. Bring cash from Manila.
Best for: Families and snorkelers who want English-friendly service.
10. Tunisia: The closest cheap country to Nigeria?
Yes. Tunisair flies from Lagos to Tunis directly for $550 return. From Abuja, connect through Lagos or Cairo. A riad in the Sousse medina costs $18 on Booking.com. A plate of couscous with lamb is $4. A louage (shared taxi) from Tunis to Hammamet is $3.
I visited the Roman ruins of Dougga. Entrance fee was $5, and I had the entire site to myself for three hours. Tunisia is safe for tourists as of this year, but avoid the Libyan border area. The Star Wars sets in Matmata are still standing and cost $2 to enter. No crowds, no overpriced cafes.
Fatima’s honest take: “Tunisia surprised me. “Cheap flights, cheap hotels, and the best seafood grill I have ever eaten. And the airport in Tunis is modern and efficient.”
Pros
- Visa-free for Nigerians for up to 90 days.
- Mediterranean beaches without European prices.
Cons
- English is rare outside hotels. Learn basic French or Arabic.
- Street hustlers in Tunis can be persistent. Say “la shukran” firmly.
Best for: Nigerians looking for a cheap international getaway with a short flight time.
What you need to know before you go
Visa requirements
Nigerian passport holders need visas for Vietnam, India, Bolivia, and Pakistan. Check the official embassy website for each country. Laos, Cambodia, Nepal, Albania, the Philippines, and Tunisia offer visa-free entry or visa on arrival. Rules change monthly. Do not trust a blog post from 2023. Verify at least two weeks before your flight.
Currency and payment tips
Carry USD for exchange in Asia and Bolivia. In Albania and Tunisia, euros work better. ATMs in Laos charge $5 fees. Bring a Charles Schwab or a no-fee card. Cash is king in rural Nepal and Pakistan. Never rely on cards alone.
Local transport options
Tuk-tuks in Cambodia and the Philippines should be negotiated before getting in. In Vietnam, use Grab (their Uber) to avoid scams. Albania has furgons (minibuses) that leave when full. Bolivia uses trufis (shared taxis) for 50 cents. In Tunisia, louages are cheaper than trains but have no luggage space.
Cultural etiquette
Remove shoes before entering temples in Nepal, Cambodia, and Laos. In Pakistan and India, cover knees and shoulders. Tipping is not expected in Vietnam or Bolivia but appreciated. In Albania, round up the bill. Never point your feet at a Buddha statue. Never touch a monk in Laos.
Safety tips specific to each destination
Pickpocketing happens in Ho Chi Minh City and Manila. Keep your phone hidden. Altitude sickness in Bolivia and Nepal is real. Hydrate and take it slow. In Pakistan, register with the police in Gilgit-Baltistan for free. In Tunisia, avoid the southern border zones. Travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation is worth the cost.
Where are these located?
For a full interactive route, open in Google Maps or consult a local guide on arrival. The map above centers on Asia and the Mediterranean, where most of these cheap countries are located.
Frequently asked questions
What is the absolute cheapest country to visit as of this year?
Vietnam and Laos tie for the lowest daily costs. Budget travelers spend $15 to $20 USD per day, including a private room and local meals. Flights from Nigeria to Hanoi start around $700 round trip if booked early this year.
When should I book flights to get the cheapest rates?
Book international flights 2 to 4 months before departure. For travel from Abuja to Asia, Tuesday and Wednesday departures are often 15% cheaper than weekend flights. Use Kayak or Expedia to compare.
Are these cheap countries safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, but caution varies. Vietnam, Thailand, and Albania rank as very safe for solo women. Pakistan and Bolivia require more vigilance and local guides. Always check your government’s travel advisories before booking. Read reviews on TripAdvisor forums for recent female traveler reports.
Do I need a visa for any of these budget destinations?
Many offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival for Nigerians. For exact rules, visit the official immigration website of each country. Requirements change without notice, so never rely on third-party summaries. As of late this year, Tunisia and Albania are visa-free.
Which cheap country is best for a family of four?
Cambodia and Albania offer family-friendly guesthouses for under $30 per night, plus activities like Angkor Wat or the Blue Eye spring that kids enjoy. Both have decent medical clinics in tourist areas. Use Vrbo to find whole apartments with kitchens.
How can I find flight and hotel package deals to these countries?
Use Expedia or Agoda to bundle flights and hotels. You save 10-20% compared to separate bookings. Set price alerts on Kayak at least three months ahead. For loyalty points, check Hotels.com rewards.
What hidden costs should I budget for that locals don’t mention?
In many Asian countries, tourist sites charge separate camera fees or electric fan rentals. In Bolivia, entrance to Salar de Uyuni requires a 4×4 tour. Always ask for ‘all-inclusive’ rates upfront. Also budget for travel insurance and a yellow fever vaccine if coming from Nigeria.
Plan your trip: booking platforms we trust
The WakaAbuja team has personally tested these platforms for price accuracy and customer support. We recommend using a mix: Agoda for Asian hotels, Booking.com for flexible cancellations, and Expedia for flight+hotel bundles. For tours, GetYourGuide offers verified local operators.
For cheap activities, also check GetYourGuide last-minute deals. If you are traveling with a group, compare Vrbo and Booking.com for the same property. Prices differ by platform.