Your Guide to Traveling in South America
Specific Country Guides Below (Coming Soon)
What to Know Before You Go
South America is a land of color, contrast, and culture—from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains, Incan ruins to tango-filled cities. Each country offers something different. You can explore ancient civilizations, seek out wildlife, trek through breathtaking landscapes, or savor some of the world’s most flavorful cuisine. This guide will help you get ready for an unforgettable first journey.
BEFORE YOU GO
1. Passport & Entry Requirements
- Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
- Many South American countries do not require a visa for short visits from the U.S., Canada, or EU citizens (e.g., Peru, Chile, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil—though Brazil requires an eVisa starting in 2025).
- Some countries require a proof of onward travel or yellow fever vaccination if arriving from certain areas.
2. Health & Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended—especially for medical care, altitude sickness, or flight disruptions.
- Common vaccines: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever (for some countries), and routine immunizations.
- In remote areas or jungles, consider anti-malaria medications or insect precautions.
3. Currency & Money
- Every country uses its own currency: Peruvian Sol, Argentine Peso, Chilean Peso, Brazilian Real, etc.
- Cash is essential in small towns, markets, and local restaurants.
- ATMs are widely available—notify your bank and use a card with no foreign transaction fees.
- Tipping is common in cities—10% in restaurants is typical.
PACKING FOR SOUTH AMERICA
- Layered clothing: climates vary widely—from tropical jungles to chilly highlands.
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
- A daypack for excursions and sightseeing.
- Rain jacket, sunscreen, and bug repellent.
- Toilet paper and hand sanitizer for more remote areas.
- Travel plug adapter: most countries use Type C or L plugs (220V).
TOP EXPERIENCES ACROSS SOUTH AMERICA
Nature & Adventure
- Hike to Machu Picchu (Peru) via train or multi-day trek.
- Explore the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, or Bolivia.
- See the otherworldly landscape of the Atacama Desert (Chile).
- Trek in Patagonia—Torres del Paine (Chile) or El Chaltén (Argentina).
- Visit the stunning Iguazú Falls (Argentina & Brazil).
Culture & History
- Dance the tango in Buenos Aires (Argentina).
- Explore colonial cities like Cartagena (Colombia) or Quito (Ecuador).
- Wander the colorful neighborhoods of Valparaíso (Chile).
- Learn about ancient civilizations like the Inca, Moche, and Nazca cultures.
- Visit wine regions in Chile and Argentina.
QUICK FACTS & CULTURAL NOTES
| Topic | Insights |
| Languages | Spanish and Portuguese (Brazil). English is limited in rural areas—learning key phrases helps! |
| Altitude | Cities like Cusco, La Paz, and Quito are high-altitude—hydrate, rest, and take it slow. |
| Food | Amazing local cuisines—ceviche in Peru, empanadas in Argentina, feijoada in Brazil. |
| Safety | Stay aware of your surroundings in cities; use hotel safes and avoid flashing valuables. |
| Transportation | Flights are often more efficient than long bus rides. Use apps like Cabify or Uber in urban areas. |
FINAL TIPS FOR SOUTH AMERICA
- Don’t expect things to run on time—embrace the relaxed pace.
- Carry copies of your passport, especially for domestic flights or border crossings.
- Be cautious with tap water—stick to bottled or filtered, especially in rural areas.
- Respect local traditions, especially in Indigenous communities—ask before taking photos.
“Every country in South America feels like a new world—don’t rush it. Slow down, learn the rhythm, and let the people, landscapes, and history leave their mark on you.”
