9 ⁠Must-Have Travel Apps in South America in 2025

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After backpacking across South America for months…navigating the salt flats of Bolivia, dodging pickpockets in Buenos Aires, and trekking deep into Colombia’s jungle, I’ve learned the hard way which apps are essential and which ones just drain your battery.

From calling a safe ride in Lima to finding Wi-Fi in the Andes, these tools saved me more times than I can count. I’ve traveled all over—Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, and beyond—and whether you’re planning to hike Machu Picchu or dance the night away in Medellín, these apps will make your trip smoother, safer, and way more fun. Here are the 9 best travel apps to download before heading to South America in 2025. If I had to start my trip all over again, these would be the first things I’d install.

Top Travel Apps in South America

So, before you zip up that suitcase, make sure your phone’s as ready for this trip as you are. Trust me, it’s the secret sauce to going from a wide-eyed tourist to a seasoned traveler. Ready to conquer South America. Let’s kick this adventure into high gear, shall we?

1. iXpenseIt: Mastering your South American budget

Kicking off our South American adventure, let’s talk about keeping those finances in check with iXpenseIt. Imagine landing in the streets of Buenos Aires or the landscapes of Colombia without worrying about finances. iXpenseIt makes it a breeze to track your travel expenses and stick to your budget in all 12 South American countries.

This app is a game-changer for anyone looking to explore South America without breaking the bank. iXpenseIt helps you keep an eye on your spending with ease. It’s like having a financial advisor in your pocket. This app lets you enjoy those once-in-a-lifetime experiences without a hint of buyer’s remorse.

What sets iXpenseIt apart is its user-friendly interface and the ability to handle multiple currencies effortlessly. This means that whatever the local currency, you’re always on top of your finances. Plus, its detailed reports give you insights into where your money’s going, helping you spend smarter.

So, before you dive into the wonders of South America, make sure iXpenseIt is part of your digital arsenal. Explore South America with confidence and financial savvy.

• Download from: Apple | Google Play

2. AllTrails: Discovering South America’s hidden gems

Next up, let’s hit the trails with AllTrails, your ultimate guide to exploring South America’s breathtaking landscapes. Picture yourself trekking through the Amazon Rainforest or discovering secluded beaches along Brazil’s coastline. AllTrails turns these dreams into easily navigable realities.

Among the best travel apps in South America, this app is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and casual wanderers alike, offering detailed information on trails across the continent. This includes everything from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. Offering features like downloadable offline maps and wind speeds, AllTrails ensures you’re prepared for what lies ahead. And let’s not forget the user-generated images and reviews, providing you with a sneak peek of your route.

What makes AllTrails stand out is its community-driven approach. Real hikers and travelers rate and review trails, offering tips, photos, and firsthand insights. This means you’re getting a curated outdoor experience. There’s also both a free and paid version, and both offer tons of great features!

Before you set off to uncover the wonders of South America, make sure AllTrails is downloaded and ready to go. Ready to explore the wild side of South America? AllTrails is your gateway to adventure.

3. Cabify: Navigating South America’s urban maze

As we zigzag through the streets of South America, let’s zoom in on Cabify. With its roots deeply embedded in the continent, Cabify operates across 8 South American countries, including Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador. This widespread presence makes it an invaluable tool for navigating the continent’s bustling urban landscapes.

But what really sets Cabify apart from Uber and other ride-sharing giants? First off, Cabify prides itself on a stringent commitment to safety and quality. Every journey is not just a ride but a premium experience. With features like rigorous driver vetting, real-time tracking, and transparent, upfront pricing, Cabify puts your mind at ease. You know exactly who’s driving you, how much you’ll pay, and you can share your journey with friends.

Moreover, Cabify’s dedication to local communities shines through its partnerships with local drivers. These locals know their city inside out and often double as impromptu tour guides.

So, as you prepare to dive into the heart of South America’s cities, make sure Cabify is on your smartphone. It’s about traveling with confidence, comfort, and a touch of local insight.

4. ATM Fee Saver: Keeping your cash flowing

Diving deeper into the financial side of your South American journey, let’s address a common pitfall: sky-high ATM fees. In places like Argentina, where ATM withdrawal fees can be steep, managing cash flow becomes a crucial part of travel planning. That’s where ATM Fee Saver becomes an essential tool in your travel arsenal.

This app is a game-changer for anyone traveling through South America, removing the frustrating quest for a fee-free ATM. ATM Fee Saver guides you straight to the nearest machine without extra charges.

The app boasts a user-friendly interface and an updated database, thanks to a community of travelers who share updates on fee statuses. This wealth of information aids in planning your cash management strategy. You’ve always got options with ATM Fee Saver.

ATM Fee Saver ensures that every penny saved on fees is a penny you can spend on your travels. So, before you set off on your adventure, make sure ATM Fee Saver is on your phone. It’s about maximizing your travel budget, ensuring that your money is spent on unforgettable experiences, not on ATM fees.

• Download from: Apple | Google Play

5. XE Currency: The traveler’s exchange rate guru

As we continue our exploration of South America, let’s not forget the importance of staying savvy with our spending. With XE Currency, you’re always in the know. It guarantees you get the best bang for your buck, no matter the currency.

This app shines by providing real-time exchange rates for every currency you might encounter on your South American journey. Whether it’s the Brazilian Real, the Colombian Peso, or the Peruvian Sol, XE Currency keeps you one step ahead. Every transaction becomes smooth and transparent. With XE Currency, you’re never lost in translation when it comes to money.

What sets XE Currency apart is its ease of use and reliability, making it one of the best travel apps in South America. With just a few taps, you can calculate prices in your home currency. Plus, its historical price charts can help you decide the best time to exchange money. This saves you from the pitfalls of fluctuating rates. You can also access conversions offline. This means you can have the upper hand even when you’re in a remote Peruvian mountain market.

Before you dive into the markets and eateries of South America, make sure XE Currency is at your fingertips. It’s all about making informed financial decisions, allowing you to enjoy your travels without worrying about the costs.

6. Maps.Me: Your offline pathfinder

Maps.Me becomes your secret weapon for tackling those twisty streets and hidden trails. Okay, so you’re about to wander into a quaint town in the Andes and boom, your internet ghosts you. No sweat, though, because with Maps.Me, you’ve got all the maps you need, right in your pocket, no WiFi necessary.

Now, why pick Maps.Me over Google Maps when you’re adventuring through South America? Here’s the scoop: it gets down to the nitty-gritty details of places that Google Maps might just skim over. Also, it offers options for multiple transport modes available in offline maps. I wish Google Maps had this feature!

The cool part about Maps.Me is how easy it makes everything. Before you even start your journey, you can download maps for wherever you’re headed in South America. Then, when you’re on the ground, you can mark your faves and plan out your routes, all without burning through your data.

Maps.Me is powered by its users, meaning you’re getting updates from fellow wanderers and locals who know what’s up. Found a new café or a shortcut to that waterfall everyone’s talking about? It’s probably on Maps.Me, thanks to someone just like you.

7. Duolingo: Breaking language barriers

As we continue our exploration of South America, let’s tackle one of the most enriching aspects of travel: language. With Duolingo, learning Spanish, Portuguese, or any of the indigenous languages becomes part of the adventure. Duolingo transforms every interaction into an opportunity for connection and understanding.

Order a meal in flawless Spanish at a local Peruvian market. Or enjoy a meaningful conversation with a Brazilian artist about their work. You can do all this thanks to your pre-trip language sessions with Duolingo. This app turns language learning into a game, with bite-sized lessons that fit easily into your travel prep.

What sets Duolingo apart is its personalized learning approach. It adapts to your learning style, ensuring you can progress at your own pace. Duolingo offers a comprehensive and engaging way to dive into the language.

Beyond practical communication, learning the local language opens doors to deeper cultural immersion. With Duolingo, you become a part of the world you’re exploring.

Before you embark on your South American journey, let Duolingo be your guide to breaking down language barriers. It’s about learning to speak, connect and make every conversation a bridge to new experiences.

8. iOverlander: The ultimate road trip companion

Let’s gear up for the open road with iOverlander, a must-have app for those planning to explore this vibrant continent by car or camper. Navigate the vast landscapes of South America with iOverlander as your co-pilot. This app guides you to the best spots for camping, refueling, and soaking in the natural beauty.

iOverlander is full of information for road trippers, compiled by a community of travelers who’ve been where you’re heading. This app doesn’t just show you where to sleep each night. It connects you with essential services like mechanics, water sources, and even Wi-Fi spots.

What makes iOverlander stand out is its off-the-grid utility. iOverlander provides insights and tips for the most remote corners of South America. Whether you’re looking for a secluded beach or a local eatery, iOverlander has you covered.

Before you hit the road in South America, make sure iOverlander is on your dashboard. It’s about discovering experiences that make your road trip unforgettable. iOverlander is your key to the ultimate road trip.

9. AllSubway: Mastering urban transit

Diving into the urban heart of South America, navigating the bustling cities becomes a breeze with AllSubway at your fingertips. Seamlessly hop on the metro in Santiago, Buenos Aires, or Rio de Janeiro, like you’ve been a local for years. AllSubway is your key to mastering the art of city transit, offering subway maps for cities across the continent.

This app is a godsend for travelers looking to explore South America’s metropolitan wonders by subway. With AllSubway, you gain access to comprehensive, easy-to-read subway maps that work offline.

What makes AllSubway indispensable is its simplicity and efficiency. No more standing puzzled at subway stations trying to decipher routes. AllSubway empowers you to navigate the city’s underground with confidence and ease.

Beyond just convenience, using the subway immerses you in the everyday rhythm of the city. It offers a slice of local life that’s both authentic and enriching. It’s an opportunity to blend in, observe, and even strike up conversations with residents, turning every ride into a mini-adventure.

Before you dive into the streets of South America’s cities, make sure AllSubway is ready to go on your device. Unlock the heart of the city and make every journey an integral part of your travel story. Ready to navigate the urban landscape like never before? AllSubway is your ticket to explore.

• Download from: Apple