fit for travel south america

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

• Destinations
• South America & Antarctica
• Asia (Central)
• Asia (East)
• Australasia & Pacific
• Central America
• Europe & Russia
• Middle East
• North America

Colombia (South America)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Hepatitis A; Tetanus.
• Other vaccines to consider: Diphtheria; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Typhoid; Yellow Fever.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: none.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport from the same countries mentioned above.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.
• Yellow Fever :  spread by the bite of an infected, day-biting mosquito. The disease is mainly found in rural areas of affected countries but outbreaks in urban areas do occur. Vaccination is usually recommended for all those who travel into risk areas. (View yellow fever risk areas here), and areas where there is an outbreak ongoing (check the 'news' section for outbreaks). In addition, certain countries may want to see proof of vaccination on an official yellow fever vaccination certificate - check above under Immunisations .

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria precautions

There is an outbreak of malaria in parts of this country (please see the news section at the end of this page).

• Malaria is present throughout the year. Risk is present in most municipalities but is highest in departments of Choco, Antioquia, Cordoba, Narino, Cauca, Risaralda and the Amazon (Vichada, Guaviare, Vaupes, Guainia and Amazonas). There is low to no risk in the San Andres archipelago and no risk at high altitude and the cities of Bogota and Cartagena. 
• Malaria precautions are essential. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Check with your doctor or nurse about suitable antimalarial tablets.
• See malaria map – additional information can be found by clicking on the Regional Information icon below the map.
• High risk areas: atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine is usually advised for those visiting risk areas.
• Low to no risk areas: antimalarial tablets are not usually advised. 
• If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure.
• If travelling to an area remote from medical facilities, carrying standby emergency treatment for malaria may be considered.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, dengue fever.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

Zika Virus Infection

This country has been categorised as having a risk of Zika (ZIKV) virus transmission.

ZIKV is mainly spread through mosquito bites. The mosquito responsible most commonly bites during daylight hours and is common in towns and cities. 

The illness is usually mild but infection during pregnancy may lead to babies being born with birth defects. There is no vaccine currently available against ZIKV.

Advice for All Travellers

You should practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times. Do not travel without adequate travel insurance . Seek pre-travel health advice from a travel health professional 6 to 8 weeks in advance of travel.

Additional recommendations for pregnant travellers or those planning pregnancy

If you are planning pregnancy in the very near future you should consider whether you should avoid travel to this country.

• contact your GP, obstetrician or midwife for further advice, even if you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• use barrier methods of contraception during and after travel and for the duration of your pregnancy, even in you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• If you develop symptoms of ZIKV infection, it is recommended that you avoid becoming pregnant for a further 2 months following your recovery
• 2 months afterwards if you are female
• 3 months afterwards if you are male or if both partners travelled

These measures reduce the chance of sexual transmission of ZIKV and/or the risk of ZIKV infection in pregnancy.

For further information, see Zika virus infection page.

• 21 Feb 2024 - Dengue in the Americas and Caribbean: Update 1
• 84 additional items in the news archive for this country

back to top

The Complete South America Packing List: For Vacationing, Backpacking & Hiking

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 29th November 2023

So you’re going on an adventure to South America? Working out exactly what to pack for a short vacation or a longer-term backpacking trip can feel like a daunting prospect: after all, what happens if you forget something essential or find yourself completely underprepared for the weather, altitude or climate of South America? 

Before my first ever backpacking trip to South America back in 2014, I remember feeling exactly the same way.

Since then, I’ve spent over five years living and traveling in the region and have backpacked, vacationed, and lived across the continent, writing guidebooks (and this blog!) along the way to help others get to grips with a trip to South America. I’ve traveled on a budget and traveled in style, so I know exactly what to pack for South America depending on the type of trip you’re taking.

I’ve overpacked (mostly), underpacked (rarely), and discovered exactly what items you can and can’t find across the continent if you forget or mislay them during your trip.

I’ve also learned which hiking, camping, and general backpacking gear can withstand months (if not, in many cases, years) of traveling, so I can talk with educated knowledge about what you should – and shouldn’t – invest your money in.

Click to navigate this article:

Key things to consider before packing for South America:

• What type of traveling will you do? Whether you’re planning a hiking adventure in Patagonia or hitting the beaches in Colombia , your luggage is going to look fairly different. This guide has been designed to cover most bases and has different sections that you can dip in and out of. You can also read my complete packing guide to Patagonia if you’re planning on spending most of your time hiking. 
• Don’t overpack: laundry facilities are inexpensive across South America and located practically everywhere you’ll go. As a result, you can pack fewer items of clothing because you should be able to do laundry every couple of weeks. Turnaround at laundrettes can be as short as 12 hours and it should only cost a few dollars for a full load – making it extremely affordable. The only issue I’ve found is that they do have a tendency to damage your clothes, as well as occasionally losing socks and underwear. Always count the items of clothing you drop off and double-check everything’s there before you leave the shop when you pick it back up again. 
• You can buy most things in shops in South America. Big cities tend to have all the shops you’ll need for picking up items of clothing, toiletries, and electricals, with large, modern department stores often your best bet. However, prices on imported goods can be higher than you’ll find at home; I’ve found this, particularly the case for electrical items and camping equipment (the latter of which is generally poor quality and very expensive). 
• Safety can be an issue in South America. The fewer obviously expensive items you can pack (yup, I’m looking at you, the latest iPhone or MacBook), the less likely you are to get robbed, and the more you’ll enjoy your trip! You also want to always keep an eye and a hand on your belongings: this is very important in bus, train and metro stations where you want to have an arm through your rucksack strap or on your suitcase as thieves are very good at stealing them without you realizing they’ve gone. Make sure you also never put valuables into any luggage that goes into the hold on a bus or even into the luggage racks above your seat. Instead, keep valuable items at your feet and preferably securely attached to your person. Read our guide for more information about the safest countries to visit in South America .

So what do you need to pack for South America? Here’s my packing list honed over seven years of exploring the continent.

Backpacks for South American travel

The type of luggage you bring is a personal choice, and you do see travelers with wheelie suitcases in South America. However, if you’re planning on doing any multi-day hikes in South America (of which there are plenty), a backpack is the most versatile choice. Pulling a wheeled suitcase over cobbles or poorly-maintained streets in cities and towns across the continent is going to be hard work.

Finding a backpack that’s comfortable for wandering the streets from the bus stop to your accommodation, as well as when you’re on day eight of the O Circuit in Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park is no mean feat.

I’ve had the same backpack for the past seven years and don’t look forward to the day I have to part from it. Not only is it a women’s fit (a very important choice if, like me, you’re not the tallest), but it has an adjustable back system, which has meant I can adapt it to fit me more comfortably.

However, to be sure it would fit before I bought it, I took myself to a local outdoor shop to try on a number of backpacks. This is a great way to make sure you don’t sink loads of money into a bag that will cause you frustration – or worse, a bad back. 

You also want a backpack that is as functional as possible. If you’re planning on hiking in South America or even traveling to countries near the Equator where it tends to rain heavily for periods of the day, a rain cover – either included or added to your pack – is a smart idea, while various pockets, including side pockets for stuffing with shoes or water bottles, give your backpack space to grow and store more things if needed. 

Unfortunately, my backpack, the Berghaus Torridon 60 liter, is no longer available to buy. Instead, Osprey is a great brand that’s a little more expensive but known for being exceptionally reliable and long-lasting, making their bags ideal for both short and long-term travel. 

• For her: With plenty of ways to adjust the fit, plus ventilation for keeping your back cool on sweaty treks through the city or great outdoors, the Osprey Aura AG 65 liter (if you plan on doing longer, multi-day treks: buy it from REI | Osprey | Amazon ) or the Osprey Aura AG 50 liter (for general backpacking: buy it from REI | Osprey | Amazon ) are sturdy, long-lasting and comfortable backpacks.
• For him: The men’s Osprey Atmos AG 65 liter (buy it from REI | Osprey | Amazon ) has similar functionality: 
• Add a rain cover  from REI | Osprey | Amazon to make sure your pack is 100% waterproof.

Wheeled suitcases for traveling in South America

Don’t fancy lugging your belongings on your back like an oversized turtle? A wheeled suitcase isn’t the most practical luggage for South America, but it’ll work, particularly if any hiking plans you’ve got will involve a daypack instead (more on that below). 

When it comes to a wheeled bag, one of the main considerations is whether you go for a hard or soft case. Soft cases have the benefit of not cracking if placed under stain (and on buses in South America they do tend to like throwing the luggage around), but if you’re concerned about security, a hard case has the edge. 

My favorite is the wheeled LEVEL8 suitcase. Not only is it roomie – it comes in 41L , 68L , and a whopping 108L – but it has three different zipped compartments, making it very easy to pack your belongings (and know where they are!).

The frame itself doesn’t weigh too much, either, which ensures it’s easy to wheel around and also doesn’t use up too much of your weight allowance! Mine has been brilliant and it’s easy enough to pack a small rucksack inside this suitcase for day trips.

• For him and her: Available in three different sizes and made from a durable hard shell, the LEVEL8 range of cases is my top pick and can be bought in three different sizes: 41L , 68L , and 108L .

Daypacks for South America 

A day pack can serve multiple purposes on a trip to South America. For days spent exploring the city, a 20- to 40-liter backpack will be a perfect size, with enough room to carry water, a camera, and extra layers. It’ll also be the right size for day hikes, whether trekking in Torres del Paine National Park or for a day exploring Machu Picchu. They’re also useful as hand luggage on a plane or when traveling overnight on buses. 

Again, I recommend comfort and functionality when it comes to a daypack. An adjustable waist strap is invaluable when you’re hiking, while a waterproof rain cover and smaller pockets for keys or lip balm are also handy. 

I spent many happy years with my Lowe Alpine daypack, however, it’s a brand that’s practically impossible to find in the US and 25l is a little small if you’re planning on doing a multi-day hike. Instead, Osprey is again a great alternative.

• For her: You can find my Lowe Alpine 25 on Amazon or check out the Osprey Sirrus 36 , which is packed with pockets, has a waistband and rain cover, and is easy to adjust: REI | Amazon
• For him: The Osprey Stratos 34 has similar functionality as the women’s version: REI | Amazon .

Clothes for South America | Hiking and essentials

Choosing which clothes to pack for a South America trip is all about versatility – and recognizing that this continent is one hell of a huge place with an incredibly wide-ranging array of climates and altitudes. 

No, it’s not always hot and sunny in South America and yes, there are places where it feels like it rains all the time (or it actually does if you’re visiting in rainy season). Before you begin, check out my guide to when to visit South America , which runs you through the types of weather you can expect in different parts of the continent. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that you’ll want to be packing for pretty much every possible climate if you’re planning a backpacking adventure that spans more than just one country. 

It’s also worth noting that altitude can have a real impact on temperatures. If you’re heading to Cusco , Machu Picchu , Arequipa , Huaraz, Quito, La Paz , or other similarly high-altitude destinations, you’ll quickly notice that temperatures drop significantly at night. A warm fleece or down jacket will quickly become your favorite item of clothing. 

Finally, a note on fabrics. Quick-dry and moisture-wicking materials, such as polyester, nylon, and linen, are a good choice, particularly if you end up needing to do a wash in a sink in your hotel (you invariably will). Cotton will keep you cool, but takes absolutely forever to dry, while silk will end up getting crumpled in your bag.

If you don’t have much already in your wardrobe that seems good for traveling, REI have a whole range dedicated to travel clothing for men and women that’s worth checking out and that can be filtered according to material and qualities (such as moisture-wicking).

A waterproof jacket: I grew up in a family who takes hiking very seriously and I can’t fault my dad for persuading me that a good quality Gore-Tex waterproof jacket is an essential item of clothing for your bag. It’ll keep you dry and, if you spend more, the material is going to be breathable and stop you getting too hot or sweaty, even if you’re hiking. My latest jacket, the Patagonia Storm10 , is a three-layer waterproof (read: extremely dry) made from 100% recycled nylon. It’s very thin, which makes it light but also easy to layer up using a down jacket or cozy fleece beneath.

For cheaper budgets, North Face is always a good choice, too. Their Alta Vista jacket is a breathable, lightweight option at an affordable price point.

• For her: I love the Patagonia Storm10 Jacket as it’s an ultralight, easy-to-pack but fully waterproof jacket ( Patagonia ); the North Face Alta Vista Jacket ( Amazon | REI ) is significantly cheaper but offers good weather protection.
• For him: the Patagonia Storm10 Jacket is a good option ( Patagonia ) or the equally lightweight but waterproof Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ( REI | Patagonia | Backcountry ); if you want something more affordable, the North Face Alta Vista ( Amazon| REI ) is a good shout; if you’re looking for something that’ll last you a decade, check out pricey but industry-leading Arc’teryx ( REI | Amazon )

A warm fleece: Fleece is a material designed to keep you warm by trapping body heat; at the same time, it’s extremely lightweight. It’s not only great for cool evenings when the temperatures drop, but it’ll be a great addition to your hiking backpack if you head out into the mountains.

• For her: Go for this inexpensive one from Columbia or pick up an even cheaper one from REI
• For him: Mountain Hardwear have great options: REI | Backcountry | Amazon

A down jacket: I don’t think I wear any coat more than my down jacket. It’s because it not only provides me with a welcome extra layer, but it also packs down very small and light and can easily be worn under a waterproof jacket if I’m feeling really cold. Be aware that, while a down jacket is a great piece of kit, because down (the feathers used inside the coat for insulation) isn’t designed to get wet, you want one that’s either water resistant (pricey) or synthetic down (cheaper but heavier). I’ve been wearing a Jack Wolfskin down jacket (Amazon), which is packed with responsibly sourced down with 700-fill (a number that basically puts it at the top of the range when it comes to warmth). It’s also extremely light, so excellent for shoving in your pack for when you need it.

• For her: I love my new Jack Wolfskin down jacket ( Amazon ). The North Face has some good synthetic down jackets ( REI | Backcountry | Amazon ), while Mountain Hardw ear has some water-resistant down jackets ( REI | Backcountry | Amazon ).
• For him: REI has some good synthetic down jackets and some of the most affordable water-resistant down jackets

Two or three x hiking trousers and shorts: Whether you’re looking to hit the trails across South America or might do a bit of day hiking here and there, a couple of comfortable pairs of hiking trousers are must-haves; trust me, you’ll regret any hikes you do in jeans. Hiking trousers will also be extremely comfortable on days spent wandering around the city.

Investing in those that are quick-dry is a must (nothing’s worse than getting rained on and your trousers staying wet). prAna are known for the durability of their women’s hiking trousers, while Columbia have some great options for men .

• For her: Get prAna hiking pants at REI | Backcountry | Amazon . 
• For him: Columbia’s trail pants ( REI | Backcountry | Amazon ) are a great option.

Two or three hiking tops: Lightweight, easy drying, and quick-to-wash hiking tops are also essential, particularly as they’ll keep you nice and cool in the South American humidity. Any sort of sports tops should suffice, but make sure they’re made from moisture-wicking materials.  

• For her: REI have some great own-brand t-shirts 
• For him: REI have some own-brand t-shirts for men, too

Hiking poles: They might seem like something you only need once you’ve gotten past a certain age, but hiking poles are now something I always take with me on a hike. Not only are they great for taking the pressure off your knees when you’re going downhill, but they’re extremely handy if you roll your ankle or injure yourself on the trail. Check out  REI’s guide  to selecting trekking poles or try Black Diamond from REI | Backcountry | Amazon .

Clothes for her

Three or four casual tops: These can be a blend of tank tops, short-sleeved (for protecting your shoulders from the sun), and long-sleeved t-shirts (the latter are good for the jungle when you’ll want all skin out of sight), as well as casual shirts (great for throwing over you in hot weather when you start burning). Sustainable companies such as Organic Basics and Tentree have some great t-shirts and tanks from recycled synthetic materials, organic cotton, and linen; just avoid light colors which will end up getting stained

A smart top or shirt: There’s likely going to be at least one occasion where you’ll want to dress up and a smart top or shirt can make you look respectable. 

Two comfy linen trousers or similar: I never travel with jeans for the main reasons that they’re a) very bulky and b) horrifically unpleasant in hot, humid climes. Instead, I prefer linen trousers or ones made from a lightweight, quick-drying material, such as recycled polyester. Tentree has some great linen and recycled polyester trousers. 

Two pairs of leggings: Leggings are an absolute essential when it comes to your South America packing list. I tend to have three in my backpack: two pairs for hiking and another pair that can be worn either out and about or for sleeping in cold climates. Any pair of leggings will do, but REI has some affordable options, while prAna does some really comfortable pairs ( REI | Amazon ) which have handy side pockets for your phone or other essentials on the trail.  

Two pairs of shorts: Depending on when you visit South America, it can get very warm, so a few pairs of lightweight and quick-drying shorts are a must (or just throw in a few more trousers if you don’t like getting your legs out). TenTree have some lovely linen shorts .  

One dress or skirt: Sticking with the theme of wanting to look nice and respectable at some point during your trip, a dress or two can make you feel a bit smarter. 

A lightweight jumper or cardigan: Even in the hottest, most humid parts of South America, temperatures can drop, so a lightweight jumper or a cardigan will keep you cozy and warm against the chill. 

One or two swimsuits or bikinis: There are plenty of opportunities for swimming in most parts of the continent and the water can be extremely inviting on a hot day.

One pair of pajamas : I tend to wear short pajamas at night and put on a pair of leggings if I get cold. 

Seven underwear: This should be enough to go without doing laundry all the time if you’re traveling for a long time. 

Four bra: As above. 

Seven pairs of socks: This depends on the type of shoe you plan on wearing. If you’re going to be in trainers, bring plenty of trainer socks , plus at least two pairs of hiking socks . I wear a liner pair and an outer pair when I’m hiking, but you might just wear the one pair with your hiking boots. Bridgedale ( liner and outer socks) or Darn Tough are good for both liner socks ( REI | Darn Tough | Amazon ) and outer socks ( REI | Darn Tough |Amazon )

One scarf: A lightweight scarf has been invaluable for me during my time traveling in South America. Not only can it keep you warm, but it can be an excellent light layer against the sun when it gets too hot or be used as a blanket on an overnight bus journey. 

Clothes for him

Three or four casual tops: Go for a range of different styles; just make sure they’re lightweight and quick-drying, plus some long-sleeve casual shirts that can be worn over a t-shirt for extra warmth. Organic Basics have some great tencel t-shirts (made from wood pulp that’s lightweight and more moisture-wicking than cotton). Again, avoid light colors that will get stained from sweat or just general wear. 

A smart top or shirt: Great for helping you scrub up nicely when required. 

Two casual trousers: As suggested above, I would strongly recommend against packing heavy and hot jeans. Instead, go for cargo trousers or any other type of lightweight trousers – again made from a quick-drying material such as recycled polyester or nylon. 

Two pairs of shorts: Bring more or less depending on whether you prefer wearing trousers or shorts. 

A lightweight jumper: You’ll want something that’s thin but can provide an extra layer of warmth when needed.  

One or two swimming trunks: This allows you to have a pair drying and a pair being worn

One pair of pajama bottoms: Even if you generally sleep naked, think about those around in your hostel or hotel – you’ll want a pair of pj bottoms if you do share a bathroom and need to exit your room in the middle of the night!

Seven underwear: This should be enough to go without doing laundry all the time if you’re traveling for a while! 

Seven pairs socks: This depends on the type of shoe you plan on wearing. If you’re going to be in trainers, bring plenty of trainer socks , plus at least two pairs of hiking socks . I wear a liner pair and an outer pair, but you might just wear the one pair with your hiking boots. Bridgedale ( liner and outer socks) or Darn Tough for both liner socks ( REI | Darn Tough | Amazon ) and outer socks ( REI | Darn Tough | Amazon )

Footwear for your South America trip

A pair of hiking boots: I’ll always be an advocate for hiking boots and I’ve bought Salomons for my last three pairs. Mostly, it’s because they don’t give me blisters (an issue I’ve faced in the past), and because they’re made of Gore-Tex so keep my feet completely dry on hikes. They’re also a lot lighter and have better breathability than those made from leather.

However, if you’re not planning on doing much hiking – and only expecting to wander around towns or embark on day hikes – it might be better to just take a pair of decent hiking shoes instead. 

It’s worth going into a shop to try on boots before you buy them online to make sure you know your size; trust me, nothing’s worse than a pair of ill-fitting hiking boots. Try them on with the socks you’ll be wearing with them and you should get a good sense of whether they fit or not. It’s also important to break new boots in (i.e. wear them for a few short walks beforehand) before taking them with you to South America. 

Salomon has been my go-to hiking boot for a long time: 

• For her: REI | Backcountry | Amazon
• For him: REI | Backcountry | Amazon

They also do hiking shoes:

• For her: REI | Amazon
• For him: REI | Amazon

A pair of sandals or flip-flops : When you’re spending a day sightseeing or at the beach, you want something comfortable that’ll keep your feet cool and allow them to breathe. I travel with a sturdy pair of Teva sandals, as well as some flip-flops (made from sustainable materials) for lounging. 

My Teva sandals are sooo versatile and I know they’re going to last forever.

A pair of trainers: If it’s colder or you just want something comfy on your feet that isn’t as heavy-going as a pair of hiking boots, trainers are ideal. Make sure they fit well and don’t rub.

Travel essentials for South America

Travel water filter: A water filter is an environmentally-sound investment for your trip and one that should save you money in the long run by cutting out spending on bottled water. I’ve used so many different types of water filters cross the years but my favorite has long been the Steripen Adventurer ( Amazon | REI ), which is the quickest and easiest method of filtering water that I’ve found: you simply insert the Steripen into a 0.5- or one-liter container of water and stir it for the required time. Hey presto: clean water. The batteries should last up to 50 liters, although they are an unusual type of battery , so purchase a spare set before you leave. Another alternative is the Grayl Geopress , which performed very well when I tested out half a dozen water filters for travel .

A water bottle: To use the Steripen, you need a water bottle with an opening of at least 38mm (I have a Nalgene bottle ). 

A dry bag: One thing I quickly learned while traveling in South America is that when it rains, it pours. And when it rains – and you don’t have confidence that your backpack is waterproof enough – or perhaps you’re on a river boat in the Andes and want somewhere to store your camera and passport in case you take an unexpected dip, you’ll want a dry bag. Seriously, these have saved me so much money in damaged valuables that they’re completely worth the investment. I love Sea to Summit dry bags because of their quality and durability: REI | Backcountry | Amazon

A compression bag: A bit like packing cubes, compression bags help you stuff and compress clothing so you can fit more into your bag. Just remember to roll rather than fold otherwise you’ll end up with some really creased clothing. Get one from REI | Backcountry | Amazon

Emergency cash: It’s always worth having some spare cash on you in case your wallet gets stolen. I tend to keep around $100 USD in different pockets across my backpacks in case of emergencies. 

Travel documents: Keep a photocopy of your passport, travel insurance, and travel vaccinations (including yellow fever card) on your person, in case of emergency, as well as a digital copy somewhere safe (and preferably shared with someone back at home). 

Travel insurance: I never travel without travel insurance and it’s the number one way you can prepare for your trip to South America.

Bank cards: Withdrawing money from ATMs is fairly straightforward in South America, although you can face a lot of bank charges if you don’t have an account that gives you free cash withdrawals abroad. I would highly recommend finding a company that allows you to do this. As I’m from the UK, I use a mixture of the Halifax Clarity credit card, which allows unlimited free cash withdrawals per month, as well as my trusty Monzo card (free withdrawals up to a maximum of £200 every 30 days). 

Sewing kit: Being able to stitch up a tear in your favorite pair of trousers or even your backpack (something I’ve had to do on more than one occasion) is vital if you’re traveling for an extended period of time. Try this one .

Silk sleeping liner: Unless you’re planning on doing lots of hiking and camping, I would recommend leaving your sleeping bag at home and instead using a sleeping bag liner. You can hire sleeping bags from tour companies across South America, and when you do, you can protect yourself from whatever might be on them with this liner. I’ve also used mine religiously as an extra layer on overnight buses. I use this one .

Sleeping mask: If you need it to be dark when you sleep, a sleeping mask is a travel necessity, particularly as hotels and hostels can have curtains of varying quality. I love this one .

Microfibre travel towel: You want something lightweight that dries quickly, without feeling like it’s just moving the water around. I love my microfibre travel towel (you can also find them cheaper on REI ).

Ear plugs: I personally can’t stand them, but if you need silence to sleep then investing in a reusable pair of earplugs will ensure you get those Zs. Try these ones .

Travel pillow: Long overnight bus journeys can get tiresome and leave you with a crick in the neck if you don’t have anything to rest your head on. This pillow ( REI | Amazon ) from Sea to Summit is made from a silky, brushed polyester outer that’s soft to the touch and packs down extremely small. 

Swiss Army penknife: Invaluable for making sandwiches on the road and handy if your accommodation doesn’t have a wine bottle opener! Check them out on REI | Amazon

Padlock: Many hostels and other accommodations have lockers and you’ll need your own sturdy padlock for using them. Check them out on Amazon

Safety: I’ve never used a money belt, mostly because they’ve always looked uncomfortable and hot to wear. Instead, I tend to have a small zippered bag with various internal pockets where I store my valuables and ensure I always keep my eye on them when I’m out and about. That said, I have heard of people having the straps of their bags chopped without them noticing, so this isn’t exactly a foolproof plan. If a money belt would make you feel better, try this one.

Door stopper: It might seem like the strangest thing to be included on this packing list for South America, but I always travel with a doorstop. I’ve stayed in some hotels and hostels where I struggled to lock my room door; as a solo female traveler, this is far from ideal. A plastic door stopper can be used on the internal side of the door to prevent it from being opened from outside, giving you peace of mind at night time. Try this one .

Scrubba: Doing laundry can be expensive and not necessarily work within your timeframes, if you’ve only got a day or two in a place. I’ve been using the Scrubba for years now and it’s the perfect way to wash your underwear, t-shirts, and even larger items such as trousers quickly and effectively. It doesn’t leave your clothes all soapy, like when you wash them in the sink, either. 

Bite pen: If you’re traveling to a location where mosquitos are known to be, consider packing the bite away bite pen . It works by heating up to a set temperature within seconds – which, when applied to any mosquito bites, can remove any itchiness.

Toiletries for South America

Hanging toiletry bag: Easy to hang on the back of a bathroom door or suspend from a hook in your bedroom, a hanging toiletry bag is extremely functional and has been part of my backpack ever since I first started traveling to South America. This one from Sea to Summit has lasted me over seven years and counting. 

Sunglasses: The sun’s strong in South America. Invest in polarising sunglasses with a UV filter to protect your eyes. 

Sunscreen: It’s not only the beach where you can burn; altitude can see you burn even faster. Opt for a mineral-based sunscreen that’s safe to use in the ocean such as All Good Mineral .

Solid shampoo and conditioner: For weight-saving purposes, buy solid shampoo and conditioner bars, which should get you through a number of months without needing to buy any more. Ethique is a brand with lots of options for solid shampoo and conditioner , while Etsy has lots of brands selling them too.

A lightweight, travel medical kit: For any cuts or more serious injuries, you’ll want a first aid kit on hand. Check them out on REI | Amazon or just put one together yourself. 

Compeed plasters : Blisters are not something to take lightly as they can make hiking extremely uncomfortable. Pack some Compeed plasters before you go and use them preventatively if you know your shoes give you blisters or after a blister has formed to help it heal. 

Face masks: These are no longer obligatory in shops, public transport, and other enclosed public spaces in countries across South America, so it’s up to you if you still want to use them. 

Hand sanitizer: Keep a bottle on hand to use when there aren’t hand washing facilities available. 

Malaria tablets: Check with your doctor as to whether antimalarials are required for your trip. If you’re heading into the Amazon, it’s likely you’ll need them. 

Motion sickness tablets: Bus journeys into the Andes mountains can leave even the most robust travelers feeling a bit sick to the stomach. Motion sickness tablets can make you feel better. 

Anti-diarrhea pills: It’s very likely you’ll end up facing a bad stomach at some point during your trip because of poor food preparation hygiene and water that isn’t safe to drink. While avoiding salad (because it may have been washed in contaminated water) and ice in restaurants is a good ploy, you’ll want some anti-diarrhea pills for when the inevitable happens. 

Vaccinations: Jabs such as yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies (the latter if you plan on heading to remote areas) are necessary for travel to South America. Consult your doctor a few months in advance of your trip, as some of these vaccinations require more than one dose. 

Insect repellent: The mosquitos in South America enjoy sampling new blood, so make sure you’ve got a strong insect repellent that you can use in hot, tropical destinations. I avoid DEET-based repellent, which can damage your clothing and even melt the plastic. This one from Sawyer ( REI | Amazon ) doesn’t have DEET but still works.

Menstrual cup: I’ve used mine for the past four years and it’s incredible the amount of money – and plastic waste – that it has saved. Tampons can also be difficult to find in South America (or at least the big brands that you’re probably accustomed to at home). Bring a couple of emergency tampons for treks or situations where you don’t have access to running water for cleaning your menstrual cup. Try out this menstrual cup .  

Hairbrush: These can be surprisingly heavy, so buy a small one that isn’t. 

Baby wipes: Great for multi-day treks where showers aren’t a possibility. Do the environment a favor and buy some biodegradable ones. You can buy these in South America, too.

Face wash: Nivea products are easy to find across South America; other brands not so much, so bring what you need. 

Moisturizer: As above. 

Makeup: Foundation and concealer can be difficult to find for pale skin; otherwise you can buy all the major brands in cities across the continent.    

Technology for South America 

A eSIM: Rather than buy a new SIM in each country, I’m now using eSIMs which have changed my travel life! You can download them in a second, add credit in another second, and I’ve found them useful in multiple countries across the globe in the past few months. I recommend Airalo .

Camera: I travel with my Sony A7iii , a mid-level DSLR, with a great, all-around travel lens, the 24mm to 105mm Sony lens . However, unless you’re very keen on photography, sticking to a classic point-and-shoot camera is likely a better option, particularly as they draw less interest when you’re out and about and weigh considerably less. My dad swears by his Canon Powershot . Not not only is the image quality incredible but it’s compact and very easy to use. They are often very good deals on buying this camera, particularly when Canon have just brought out a newer version. 

SD cards: Make sure you’ve got plenty of space for capturing photographs by bringing a couple of spare SD cards. 

Kindle: It can be difficult to find English-language books across South America. While there are always random books for exchange at hostels across the continent, if you want a bit more control over what you read (or want to buy a guidebook, such as my Moon Chile , before you go), investing in a Kindle Paperwhite is a great idea. Remember to charge your Kindle regularly!

Power bank: Ensure your phone always has charge, even after a long bus journey or a few days away from civilization in the jungle.  Anker is a great brand for reliable and inexpensive power banks ( Amazon ), while REI has a power bank that can be hooked up with solar panels if you’re planning on going far off-grid.

Rapid charging USB cable for your phone:  Nothing beats having a slow-charging USB cable. I recently bought this one without realizing quite how long it was. It wound up as a fortunate mistake as it’s perfect for a hotel or hostel where the plug socket is in an awkward place!

Universal adaptor plug: Plug sockets vary a huge amount across South America. To avoid bringing the wrong adapter, it’s best to just use a universal adaptor so that you’ll never be left without access to electricity. Check them out on Amazon

Headphones: A pair of Bluetooth headphones can help you listen to music on bus journeys without needing to have your phone within reach of anyone else. I use these ones , but you might prefer less obvious in-ear headphones instead (these aren’t great when you’re trying to snooze on the plane!).

Laptop: Realistically, I would advise that you don’t bring a laptop unless you’re working on the road. I’ve found that the more valuables I take, the more stressful traveling becomes because of the fear of potentially getting robbed. It also adds to the weight of your pack.

Headlamp: Great for reading in bed or for any camping trips you do. Bring a torch or check out Black Diamond headlamps ( REI | Backcountry | Black Diamond )

Camping equipment for South America

I often get emails from readers asking whether they should bring their own camping equipment or buy (or rent) gear when they get to South America. The answer I always give is: it depends . 

If you’re planning a camping-heavy trip to Patagonia and expect to spend a decent part of your trip staying in a tent – whether on multi-day hikes or to save money on accommodation – then it’s definitely worthwhile bringing your own equipment.

Not only can it be expensive to rent for extended periods of time, but you’re hiring gear that has probably seen more than its fair share of wear and tear and might not be in the best condition (or the most waterproof). 

Buying camping equipment in South America is also something I don’t recommend. Gear is often significantly more expensive than what you’d find back at home, and, while there are affordable local brands, the quality, however, is generally pretty terrible.

If you’re planning a trip of two halves, with a stint camping and hiking and another leg without, you can always post your camping gear home, sell it to other travelers (something possible using Facebook groups or asking around at your hotel or hostel), or donate it. 

Tent: Tents range from affordable to extremely expensive and everything in between. If you’re planning on doing multi-day hikes, I would strongly recommend investing in a lightweight tent; your back will very much thank you if you do.

When I hiked the Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park , I took the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 (and you can read my full review of the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL for more information). It is an expensive tent, but I was thoroughly impressed with how light and sturdy it was. More affordable options from North Face are also recommended. 

• Try the Big Agnes HV UL2 ( REI | Amazon ) or the cheaper North Face Stormbreak 2 ( REI | Amazon ) or the roomier North Face Stormbreak 3 ( REI )

Sleeping bag: Warm and lightweight sleeping bags do come at a premium, however, it’s another area where I think it’s worth investing. Nights can get cold on the Inca Trail , in Patagonia or any other Andes region.

I recommend a good three-season sleeping bag if you’ll be camping at altitude or in Patagonia and the Nemo Disco 15 sleeping bag is a great choice. It’s filled with down and appropriate for three-season camping, meaning it’s comfortable down to 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-4°C) and a good choice for traveling in Patagonia during spring, summer, and even the shoulder seasons (September through November, and March through May) when the night time temperatures start to fall.

It also only weighs 2.6lbs (1.21g) and packs down small enough to fit in the bottom section of my Berghaus rucksack. It’s available for  men  and  women  and is a great investment for both camping in Patagonia and other parts of the world.

• For her: the Nemo Disco 15 ( REI | Amazon )
• For him: the Nemo Disco 15 ( REI | Amazon )

Sleeping pad: Small, comfortable, and durable sleeping pads are really hard to find, but will ensure you can get some sleep when you’re camping. You can get a basic, thin foam one for very cheaply. Alternatively, a bigger investment is in an inflatable pad – that gets you off the ground a little, keeping you warmer and more comfortable during the night.

• Get a cheap foam pad ( REI | Backcountry | Amazon ) or a more comfortable Therm-a-rest Prolite (buy it on REI | Backcountry | Amazon ).

Cooking utensils: When it comes to pots and pans, ultimately what you want is something lightweight, versatile and that can be cleaned easily. You’ll also want a bowl, a durable, plastic or metal mug, and a titanium spork (much sturdier than plastic).

• A set of lightweight pots and pans: Check out the MSR cooking pots Backcountry | Amazon
• Collapsible bowl: Check out Sea to Summit bowls REI | Backcountry | Amazon  
• Camping mug: Check them out on REI | Amazon
• Spork: Check them out on REI | Backcountry | Amazon

Cooking stove: A lightweight and affordable option is the MSR PocketRocket 2 , which is smaller than a lot of alternatives (which is great news when backpacking!) but does need you to buy gas canisters (which you should be able to find in towns and cities near hiking destinations).

• Check out the MSR PocketRocket 2 here ( REI | Backcountry | Amazon )

Monday 8th of January 2024

Thank you so much for this list! Leaving for 2 and a half months next week and this was an enormous help for me!

Steph Dyson

Sunday 14th of January 2024

Enjoy your trip Yanick!

Friday 1st of September 2023

Thank you for ths great article! I'll be traveling to Columbia this November, to work and to travel all around and do some multiday hiking, too. I just can't decide what type of backpack to take. I can't take both a travel backpack AND a hiking backpack - can I? How do other people resolve this issue? I hope this will be the most serious problem I will face during this trip :))))

Wednesday 20th of September 2023

Hi Bashak, I take a small backpack for hiking and a large backpack for my other stuff. You do look a bit odd but it does help! Steph

Sunday 14th of May 2023

Thank you so much for this list, very informative! I am still deciding if I should take a wheeled suitcase or a backpack for my trip to Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. I will be traveling by bus a lot and my main concern is leaving my suitcase in the hold of the bus. Do you think I would be able to (or allowed to) take a 50L backpack with me on the bus? Then it will be with me at all times. Thank you!

Monday 5th of June 2023

Hi Esther, unless it can fit in the overhead compartments (which it likely won't) or you want it under your feet all the time, then you will need to put it in the hold. I've never had any issue with leaving my bag in the hold and I've done dozens of buses. Steph

Saturday 22nd of April 2023

Thank you so much for this very detailed list. I am about to travel to South America for 3/4 months this coming September and I found your article very informative. Thank you :)

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

Thanks Charlotte!

Friday 14th of April 2023

I dont think i have got half of what you recommend in my 65l bag & its jam packed & i feel i have got to much ? Dont know what im doing wrong 🙈

Hi Mike, if you're travelling with a tent and camping equipment then you will definitely struggle - I had to attach my tent to the outside of my rucksack. Otherwise, compression sacks are key! Steph

• PR & Marketing
• Privacy Policy

Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

• How To Travel Within South America

A South America Backpacking Guide

South America is a fascinating continent to discover as a solo. I spent 21 months in South America and fell in love with the continent. If you are unsure how to travel South America or which country to travel to, this article covers an introduction to each country, budget, safety and how to travel around.

Discover the best way to travel South America, the best time to visit South America (depending on which countries you choose to visit) and recommended South America tours. Just read the relevant section or the whole article for your South America trip. 

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

• South America

Safest South American Countries for Solos

Best country to visit in south america, the galapagos islands, falkland islands, french guiana, the language spoken in south america, south america tours.

• Budget for South America
• Itineraries for South America

South America Travel Guide

Any trip to South America will greet you with a melting pot of cultures and dance, from samba in Brazil to the Argentine tango, this continent has a soul with a Spanish flavour.

It has everything from the world’s driest desert to tropical rainforests, snow-capped mountains, volcanoes, and colonial towns, and is one of the most bio-diverse continents with high-altitude cities. It is also home to coffee plantations, and ancient civilisations such as the Incas, and the Amazon River.

It is a continent that is popular with backpackers keen to experience South America travel. But it isn't for the first-time solo as you do need some basic Spanish to get by (in the Spanish speaking countries). However, many solo women travel within South America without any problems.

Society is mainly a macho society so expect attention from males whether it’s just shouting “Linda” from afar (which means beautiful) or asking you to dance. If you travel to rural areas they may not be used to seeing a woman alone so expect even more attention.

In the more developed cities such as San Jose, Medellin or Rio de Janeiro you can dress however you like. With local women showing off their curves, there’s no need to dress conservatively in these cities. Crime is the biggest issue here so be careful of your belongings, and if you go off the beaten path, buddy up with other travellers or take a tour.

How to Travel Within South America

When you travel to South America, if you choose to travel to the least developed countries of Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador, it can be a culture shock, especially in Bolivia, firstly due to its poverty, and second because of its altitude.

Although crime is increasing against foreigners Bolivia is still one of the safest places in South America. Being the cheapest means that it’s popular with other travellers so there are plenty of people to buddy up with.

Avoid taking any jungle tours alone and watch for petty thieves at marketplaces and bus stations. Be careful at night during border crossings and in the city of Oruro. Steer clear of El Alto if you can as it has a reputation for pickpockets and robberies. 

Unlike Central America, South America has vast distances and flying from country to country is not the cheapest method to get around. Although LAN Airlines operates within many countries in South America, the routes are not generally direct.

The costs of flying internationally can be expensive compared to flying internally within countries. A good tip here is to cross the borders by bus and then fly within the countries to maximise your time and budget.

Although bus travel is the cheapest method of travelling around the continent, you need to be cautious of your belongings on some of the border routes. Crossing from Colombia to Ecuador is safer during the day. If you have to travel overnight make sure that your route is safe.

Night buses in Peru are safe and so is the route from Ecuador to Peru. If you do travel by bus, expect some routes to have curvy roads if you’re going through a mountain pass.

Hiring a car isn’t really advised as the traffic can be chaotic and you don’t want to be driving anywhere alone which is off the beaten track. There’s also the chance of being stopped by corrupt police so use other methods of transport if you can.

If you have time, taking a river cruise through the Amazon is a unique way of getting from country to country. If you travel from Colombia to Brazil, for example, you’ll need to allow a few days to get there. Some islands are too far to travel by sea so if you want to visit San Andres, Easter Island, the Galapagos Islands or the Falkland Islands you have to fly instead.

The town of Zipaquirá near Bogota, home of the Salt Cathedral

Safest Countries – Chile, Argentina

Most dangerous – Venezuela, British Guyana

Solo travel rating (out of 5 stars for ease of travelling around and safety)

Argentina – 4 stars

Brazil – 3 stars

British Guyana – 2 stars

Chile – 4 stars

Colombia – 3 stars

Easter Island – 4 stars

Ecuador – 3 stars

Falkland Islands – 4 stars

French Guiana – 2 stars

Galapagos Islands – 4 stars

Paraguay – 4 stars

Peru – 4 stars

Suriname – 3 stars

Venezuela – 1 star

This article also covers the safest countries in South America and gives the overall safety score and natural disaster index for each country.

Medellin in Colombia

With South America being a diverse continent you may want to plan your trip depending on what interests you.  Below is a summary of what each country is known for to help you decide which country to visit:

Argentina – Tango, steaks, wine, ancient caves, trekking, whale watching, Iguazu Falls, stunning scenery.

Bolivia – The highest national capital in the world, salt flats, traditions, salt hotels, volcanoes, coloured lakes, and flamingos.

Brazil – Iguazu Falls, the World’s largest inland wetlands, carnivals, Amazon, wildlife, beaches, and one of the most beautiful bays in the world.

Chile – Easter Island, star gazing, vineyards, glaciers, hiking, beaches, desert.

Colombia – The Andes, coffee plantations, Amazon, Caribbean coastline, dancing.

Ecuador – Wildlife, Galapagos, jungle, chocolate, co ee, modern cities, water sports.

Falkland Islands – British, landscape, sea life.

French Guiana – Space station, Devil’s Island, leatherback turtles

British Guyana – Sugarcane plantations, rainforests, mining, wooden cathedral, waterfall

The Galapagos Islands – cruising islands and unique wildlife.

Paraguay – Rural villages, jaguars, waterfalls, zip-lining, UNESCO villages.

Peru – Mountain scenery, Incas, Aztecs, Machu Picchu, trekking, national parks, jungle, festivals, Lake Titicaca.

Suriname – Eco-tourism, tropical forest, nature reserves.

Uruguay – Beaches, cattle ranches, mountains, countryside

Venezuela – Angel Falls, Caribbean islands.

There is more to Argentina than the leg-flicking tango and the Falkland Islands. The Argentines enjoy good wine and fantastic steaks and are passionate about their culture. The south of Argentina has stunning lakes and fjords within the Patagonia region, making this an ideal place to explore if you are a nature solo.

On the whole, Argentina is a great destination for solo females. Buenos Aires and other cities and towns are safe, and there is a good traveller network in the country. Locals are friendly, especially the younger generation who are open to mixing with travellers. The only thing to be aware of is the stray dogs that hang around some of the bus stations. Just be cautious when approaching them.

Argentina isn’t that cheap to travel, so be prepared that travelling here will eat into your budget. Airlines such as Aerolineas and LADE fly domestically within the country, but buses are generally less expensive (although they still are costly).

There are bus companies for long-distance travel and some with fully reclinable seats. If you can’t afford a seat that goes all the way back (a coma), then take a semi-cama instead, which is still comfortable. If you plan to travel in the high season, buy your ticket before, or opt for a South Pass, which allows unlimited travel for several days and starts from $80 per trip.

There are tourist trains such as the Tren a las Nubes which runs from Salta through Santa Rosa de Tastil and San Antonio de Los Cobres (and more) back to Salta. Or you can take La Trochita, which is a steam train known as the Old Patagonian Express. The ride takes 3.5 hours from El Bolsón to Esquel. In towns, it’s easier to opt for shared taxis which operate on fixed routes and leave when the taxi is full.

If you prefer boat rides, there are boats on the Patagonia side that take you into Los Glaciares National Park and Nahuel Huapi National Park. The distances in Argentina can be very long so plan your trip with rest days if you are travelling overland.

Check Rome2Rio for travel within Argentina

Best time to go to Argentina – October to June.

Highlights:

• See fjords in Patagonia
• Get inspired at Iguazu Falls on the Argentine side
• Sample Argentina’s wines in a winery
• Dance the tango in Argentina

* Click here for Argentina itineraries, prices, and start dates

The Bolivian Altiplano (photo @ Leonora Enking)

Bolivia may be poor, but it is rich in scenery. La Paz is the highest capital in the world and is home to the witches market, a spooky place with potions and skulls. Death Road is an attraction for bikers who come to experience the thrill of one of the world’s most dangerous roads.

The highlight of Bolivia is the Uyuni Salt Flats. These blinding white surfaces are the world’s largest salt flats and can be reached on a day trip from the small town of Uyuni through one of the many tour agencies.

The best way to see the salt flats, the bubbling geysers and the red lakes of the Bolivian Altiplano is with a 4×4 tour that takes you overland. This is also a good way to travel overland from Bolivia to Chile through the Atacama Desert. Bolivia does have a poor road system, so a 4×4 jeep tour is an ideal way to travel around.

The buses here are cheap and give you the true local experience but expect to see some poverty at bus stations and also on the buses. Most routes don’t have bathroom stops, so expect to travel for a few hours without being able to get off.

There are direct buses from Copacabana to La Paz, for example. There is a Bolivia bus-train that will take you from Sucre to Potosi. It’s a converted bus that runs along the railway which is quicker (the actual bus will take 4 hours) and cheaper.

There are trains here but they are generally slower than buses. Flying can be quite costly so consider taking a tour if you don’t fancy a rough bus ride.

Check Rome2Rio for travel within Bolivia

Best time to go to Bolivia – April to October.

• Get spooked at the witches' market
• See the salt flats (Salar de Uyuni)
• Potosi mines

* Click here for Bolivia itineraries, prices, and start dates

With a country the size of Brazil , it’s wise to plan a route if you are limited on time. Brazil is huge! Most people visit Rio de Janeiro, which is home to two of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Christ the Redeemer and the Harbour of Rio de Janeiro. Travellers also flock here for the famous Copacabana Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Foz do Iguaçu is another population destination as the gateway to Iguazu Falls, one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the world (shared with the border of Argentina). Then there’s Salvador, with an Afro-Brazilian culture and the financial centre of Sao Paulo.

Escape the cities and relax at Ilha Grande, one of Brazil’s most beautiful islands or head north into the Amazon Rainforest to learn more about this mighty river and see the wildlife which lives there. You do need to be careful in this country as it has a high crime rate, so don’t walk around with any valuables on show and be careful at ATMs.

If you step outside of the main tourist destinations and cities, you may not encounter many other travellers. Take caution if you go off the beaten track, especially if you want to go deep into the jungle. Look for larger groups or team up with fellow travellers if you want to explore lesser-trodden routes.

Brazilians are really friendly, but knowing some Portuguese phrases will help here as they don’t speak much Spanish or English. Brazil offers air passes to make the most of flying around the country, and you can buy tickets at the airport or shopping malls with Tam, a local airline.

Trains offer a more scenic route than some of the bus journeys, which can be up to 36 hours in some places, but you can get different classes on buses. If you’re on a budget, take an economy bus which is actually quite comfortable, or there are deluxe buses for those who prefer more comfort.

Check Rome2Rio for travel within Brazil

Best time to go to Brazil – March to June.

• Rio Carnival in March 2019
• The stunning Iguazu Falls
• Christ de Redeemer
• Rio de Janeiro Harbour

* Click here for Brazil itineraries, prices, and start dates

Chile is a beautiful country with welcoming locals. Known for its vineyards, endless stretches of northern beaches, and the Atacama Desert – the driest desert in the world, this South American country is both safe and extremely scenic. Santiago is a sprawling capital, so choose which area you want to stay in. Bellavista is a funky area with many cafes and bars, making meeting others easy.

Valparaiso is nearby and just a 1.5-hour bus ride from the capital. This port city is known for its colourful clifftop houses. Then there is Iquique for the beach, dunes and waves, and Chile’s very own lake district, which stretches from Puerto Montt to Temuco.

The Chilean fjords are in Patagonia, and you can take sailing trips through this region of fjords and glaciers. Torres del Paine is on the Southern tip. This is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in the country. You can trek or take a van or catamaran tour through the national park to see breathtaking glaciers and green lakes.

Distances can be far here, but the country does have great overnight buses, and the routes are scenic and comfortable. The buses aren’t that cheap though and can take hours, especially if you are travelling south.

For internal flights, look at different airports with Sky Airlines. Sometimes it can be cheaper to fly from an alternative airport and take a bus to that destination. Locals hitchhike here, but like anywhere, use your own discretion and follow your gut instinct if you decide to join them.

Getting to Patagonia, however, is a different story. There is no direct road from Chile, so taking a flight or a boat is the only option. Although once you’re there, you can sail around the fjords.

Check Rome2Rio for travel within Chile

Best time to go to Chile – September to April.

• Atacama Desert
• Explore Torres del Paine National Park, Chile.
• Take the 6-hour flight to Easter Island , the world’s most isolated inhabited island known for its giant moai statues and named after the day it was discovered.

* Click here for Chile itineraries, prices, and start dates

Colombia ,  once declared too dangerous to travel to, is now a magical realism for tourists with Caribbean beaches, coffee plantations and the Amazon.

Bogota is the capital and although some areas can be a bit sketchy, La Candelaria is a safe, vibrant area with bars and restaurants. Visit the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira or the Tatacoa Desert a six-hour ride away from Bogota. The coffee region is the perfect place if you are in search of some nature. Take a Finca tour in Salento, or hike through the Valle del Cocora to see giant wax palms and hummingbirds.

Medellin is an amazing city with stunning views from the Metrocable. Explore the lakes of Guatape on a day trip, then head to Cali, home of Colombia’s salsa dancing. The Caribbean coast is a must-see. Spend time in Cartagena admiring the colourful old town, then hike through Tayrona National Park or experience the Lost City Trek if you have four extra days to hike.   Colombia also has the Amazon with Leticia as its gateway to the river.

Although Colombia gets a bad rap in the press, the majority of areas are fine for a solo female. Safety has improved over the last decade, but if you walk around with valuables on show, you are more likely to be robbed. Avoid certain areas, especially the more remote areas and ask locals for advice on which places to avoid.

There are cases of buses being held up, so avoid night buses on particular routes, such as Bogota to Quito. Instead, travel during the day across the border.   Only carry as much money as you need, and don’t keep all your credit cards on you. There is guerrilla activity within parts of the Amazon, so avoid exploring by yourself.

Collectivos (minibuses) operate within Colombia . The cities of Bogota and Medellin have a great transport system with metro and bus services. If you take a taxi, use a taxi app and avoid hailing one in the street in Bogota. It’s fine to get one on the road in Medellin.

Buses will take you across the country, although you can find internal flights for a similar price (without the additional cost of your luggage). Most of Colombia is mountainous, so be prepared for some windy journeys.

Check Rome2Rio for travel within Colombia

Best time to go to Colombia – December to February.

• Relax on San Andres Island.
• Take the Metrocable in Medellin for amazing views of the city
• Stay overnight in the stunning Tayrona National Park

* Click here for Colombia itineraries, prices, and start dates

Ecuador may be small, but that doesn’t stop it from being diverse. From the colonial town of Quito to white water rafting in Tena, there is much to see.

Hike the Quilotoa Lagoon , go mountain biking at Cotopaxi Volcano, or get really adventurous at Banos where you can zip line to your heart’s content, whitewater raft down the river or just relax in one of the hot springs. There are so many waterfalls here that the whole ambience is relaxing enough. You can pay a visit to one of Ecuador’s indigenous tribes from Banos.

Ecuador is relatively safe, but just avoid certain areas of Quito at night. Be careful at bus stations and on buses, and keep your belongings close to you.

Allow plenty of time to get from place to place in Ecuador. The buses are cheap (approximately $1 an hour) but you can find yourself on a bus for hours or having to backtrack because of the bus routes. Because of the mountainous regions, roads here can also be curvy. Expect some high altitude too. It's easy to cross the border to Peru.

Night buses operate from Loja with Loja Internacional, leaving at 11 pm and arriving at Piura where you can take another bus to Mancora on the Peruvian coast. 

To reach Ecuador’s Amazon, there are buses from Quito to Tena that take approximately 6 hours. Flying is easier as it only takes 30 minutes. There are daily flights from Quito and Lago Agrio (they don't operate on Sundays). It’s better to get a tour into the Amazon rather than travelling solo here.

Getting to the Galapagos Islands is best done by flying. You can take a flight from Guayaquil instead of Quito, which will save you some cash as well as flying into Santa Cruz and flying out of San Cristobal and travelling overland between. You can get between the islands via speedboat and take a tour around them.

Check Rome2Rio for travel within Ecuador

Best time to go to Ecuador – June to September

• Hiking the Quilotoa Lagoon
• The swing at the end of the world
• Standing on the equator line 
• Watch wildlife on the Galapagos Islands

* Click here for Ecuador itineraries, prices, and start dates

The Galapagos Islands are welcoming to travellers and have a laid-back vibe. The Galapagos are world-famous and although there are 61 islands, there are only 13 main islands, with Isabela being the largest. The islands are known for their rich ecosystems and an abundance of wildlife, including sea lions, giant tortoises, flamingos, and albatross. Not to mention colonies of birds, including the blue-footed boobies.

The majority of Isabela (the main island) is only accessible with a tour guide which means you need to buy a tour at approx $130. This is on top of the national park fee you pay when you enter the islands. You can find free walking trails where you can see pelicans, sea lions, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises without a guide. You can hire bikes to get around the main island.

To island-hop independently, boats cost approximately $35 and take 2.5 hours from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz at 7 am or 3 pm. They return from Santa Cruz to San Cristobal at 7 am or 2 pm. Santa Cruz seems to be the main hub for the boats for all the islands.

Galapagos Conservancy has a detailed guide to each of the islands so you can decide which one to stay on. The Galapagos Islands are known for cruises and there are several tour companies. G Adventures offers a Galapagos Land & Sea adventure that explores the north and central islands aboard a vessel called Estrella Del Mar. Prices start from €1735 for 7 days from Quito.

• Taking a cruise around the Galapagos Islands
• See the giant tortoises at Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora.
• See the Blue-footed boobies (a bird with blue-coloured feet)

* Click here for Galapagos itineraries, prices, and start dates

A Gentoo penguin on Carcass Island, The Falklands (photo @ Anita Ritenour)

The Falkland Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Argentina. There has been continuous conflict over the ownership of the islands, with the most well known being the Falklands War in 1982. The islands remain under British control.

The islands aren’t known as a prime destination, so the infrastructure isn’t really there, but there are taxi companies on the main two islands and a ferry which departs from New Haven to Port Howard. The Falkland Islands are hilly and known for being windy, so they are not the destination to head to for sunbathing.

However, if you are interested in wildlife, birds and penguins and are missing fish ’n’ chips, then head to the Falklands. Flights operate here once a week from Chile, but the cheapest flights tend to be from the United Kingdom.

Best time to go to the Falkland Islands – October to March

• The colony of King penguins

Click here for Falkland Islands itineraries, prices, and start dates

La Comte River, French Guiana (photo @ amanderson2)

French Guiana is an unusual place. This small piece of land in the northeast of South America is part of France.

You can travel by boat from Suriname across the Maroni River border to Saint Laurent du Maroni, French Guiana. This border town has a colourful fruit and vegetable market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It is also home to Camp de la Transportation, a former prison camp with displays of the lives of the 70,000 convicts.

Kourou is home to the Guiana Space Center, but tours are in French. Cayenne is the capital, with Creole-style houses and a food market on a Friday night. There isn’t that much here except a nice waterfront and an old fort. The territory does have three nature reserves, a botanic garden and Devil’s Island, so it is ideal for those who love nature. Be prepared not to meet many other solos here, though.

The tourism infrastructure isn’t really in place, making it difficult to get around. There are small boats that operate along the waterways. To travel overland, there are minibuses, but they aren’t that frequent, so you need to plan your journey wisely.

Check Rome2Rio for the best ways to get around French Guiana

Best time to go to French Guiana – August to December

Highlights :

• Camp de la Transportation
• Relax on Devil’s Island

Guyana sits in the northeast of South America, bordering Suriname, Venezuela and Brazil. The majority of the country is covered in rivers and rainforest, with howler monkeys and tropical birds taking refuge in its vegetation.

Georgetown is the capital and there isn’t much to do here except walk along the seawall and see St George’s Cathedral – one of the world’s biggest wooden cathedrals. Outside of the city, you’ll find the spectacular Kaieteur Falls and the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway.

Minibuses travel around the country, but it’s not advisable to travel at night. Ferries operate across the main rivers. If you do travel here from Suriname, fly instead of crossing illegally on the water border. It isn’t usually on a South American bucket list, and unless you go on an organised tour, I wouldn’t recommend going here independently. There is crime in the capital, so there is safety in group travel.

Check Rome2Rio for the best ways to get around Guyana

Best time to go to Guyana – January to April

• Kaieteur Falls

Paraguay is sandwiched between Brazil, Bolivia and Argentina. It has had its share of wars on the continent, a civil war in 1947, and a long dictatorship that only recently ended in the late 20th century. The country is more for the intrepid solo, as you may not encounter many other solos.

Although it is bordered by other countries, the Paraguay River runs from the North to the South and divides the country into two regions. Asunción is Paraguay's capital. It is home to half a million people and was founded in 1537. The capital has a stunning pink palace, a colourful neighbourhood called Loma San Jerónimo and a promenade with a small sandy beach. Just be careful here at night.

Get outside of the capital and the Eco Reserva Mbatoví is the place for some adventure. As well as being home to armadillos it’s also the destination for zip lining and abseiling. Or you can just walk across the hanging bridges instead. Ybycuí is another national park with howler monkeys and colourful birds. Stay on a ranch, go horse riding in the mountains or visit the ruins of Jesuit colonies.

You can travel by bus from Asuncion to Cuidad del Este on the border of Brazil. From here, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to Foz du Iguazu where you can see the Iguazu Falls . Buses are the easiest way to get around and there are small minibuses too.

There are internal flights down to Cuidad del Este if you prefer not to take the overnight bus there. International buses also operate from Chile, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil.

Check Rome2Rio for the best ways to get around Paraguay

Best time to go to Paraguay – June to August.

• See the flamingos at Central Chaco Lagoons

Peru is one of the most travelled destinations in South America, with many people coming here for Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca city. There is so much to see here, from Lake Titicaca, which Peru shares with Bolivia, to the Nazca Lines – large ancient geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert.

Lima is Peru’s capital. In the heart of Old Lima, you can find the cathedral, museums and the Archbishop’s Palace. The best place to stay here to meet others is the coastal district of Miraflores with a cool promenade. There is so much history in Peru. Visit the Sacred Valley, the red walls of Pisca, and Ollantaytambo – a well-preserved fortress that looks over the river valley.

Cuzco is the city of churches, but you can also do adventure sports here too. Then there are the floating islands where you can visit the indigenous Uros tribe on Lake Titicaca. The coast of Peru is known for surfing, so spend some time in Mancora or Huanchaco if you want to experience the beach and waves.

Peru can appear not as friendly as other South American countries. Begging is increasing within the tourist destinations, and as a solo, you may encounter stares from the locals. As in any other city, be careful with your belongings in Lima and don’t walk about at night (Cuzco is much safer). The north of Peru does not have that many tourists and parts of the country are out of bounds, so check Foreign Office advice or use a tour company if you are unsure of where to travel.

If you are travelling solo in Peru, not all indigenous villagers will welcome you; some remote Andean villages, which live in complete isolation, are not keen on visitors, so stick to the tourist route when travelling alone or hire a Quechua-speaking guide for the more remote areas. You can experience altitude sickness here, so be careful if you’re exploring places alone if you’re feeling unwell.

Surprisingly Peru has a great bus network. The night buses here are the easiest way to get around as the distances can be long. On night buses an evening meal, blanket and pillow are usually included (even if you just choose a ‘semi-cama seat). PeruRail operates the trains which depart from Aguas Calientes to Cuzco.

You can also fly internally if you have limited time to see everything. Be careful if you fly from Lima to Cusco as you could experience altitude sickness when you arrive. Allow a couple of days longer here to acclimate to the height.

Check Rome2Rio for the best ways to get around Peru

Best time to go to Peru – April to May

• Machu Picchu
• The ruins at Ollantaytambo
• The Uros people on Lake Titicaca
• Take a flight over the Nazca Lines

* Click here for Peru itineraries, prices, and start dates

Surprisingly Suriname is a great eco-destination. More than 90% of the land is covered by rainforest. The Amazon River runs through this former Dutch colony.

Paramaribo is an interesting capital with old wooden colonial buildings, but there isn’t much tourism in the city centre except a big tourist sign saying, ‘I love Suriname.’ You will find a mix of religious buildings here, from Hindu temples to mosques, synagogues and churches, and interesting colonial buildings along the riverbank to stroll past. 

You can also spot turtles and dolphins in its waters and take a tour to get up close and personal to the sea life. Venture away from the capital and explore nature along the Amazon River. Stay in a jungle lodge along the riverbank for just long enough to get your nature fix before heading back to the city.

Suriname is one of the worst places in South America for attention. Expect to hear men of all ages making the “pssst” sound as you walk past. This isn’t just aimed at foreigners as the local girls receive it too. Just be prepared for it before you arrive.  Suriname can be expensive due to a lack of tourists, but there are mini-buses here and two local airlines.

Best time to go to Suriname – August to November.

Highlights:  

• Stay in an eco-retreat along the Amazon River.
• Colonial buildings in Paramaribo.

Uruguay is one of the smallest countries in South America. It has a similar culture to Argentina, with a similar-sounding Spanish accent. The people are laid back and are proud of their country.

Montevideo is the country’s quirky capital. It’s worth doing a walking tour here to learn more about the legends of this capital. The Palacio Salvo is their most impressive building, designed with a lighthouse on top. Check out the Uruguayan walk of fame too.

Colonia del Sacramento is a gorgeous little place with cobbled streets and a UNESCO historic quarter. It doesn’t take long to look around, but it is worth taking the 3.5-hour bus ride here from the capital. There are also boats directly here from Buenos Aires if you are travelling from Argentina.

Salto is the second-largest city with nice walks along the river or head to Termas del Dayman to relax in some hot springs. Punta del Este is Uruguay’s swanky beach resort where you can sunbathe during the summer months. There is also something for the wildlife solo as the beach of Cabo Polonia has a large sea lion colony, which you can reach by 4×4.

You can reach Uruguay from Buenos Aires on a ferry for approximately $60 and once you’re there, they have an extensive bus network. Avoid hiring a car which can be expensive and travel any long distances by bus. There’s a train that will take you to Santa Lucia but it only leaves once a day and other trains only carry cargo

Check Rome2Rio for the best ways to get around Uruguay

Best time to go to Uruguay – December to March.

• Cobbled streets of Colonia del Sacramento

* Click here for Uruguay itineraries, prices, and start dates

Travelling to neighbouring Venezuela is a country off the beaten path. Travelling around Venezuela is currently unsafe with most travellers sticking to Isla de Margarita. Outside of here, there’s virtually no travellers. If you do get a chance to visit Venezuela when it becomes less dangerous, flying is exceptionally cheap and beats the air conditioning that you get on the buses.

Best time to go to Venezuela – December to April.

• Angel Falls

Road to Monte Fitz Roy, Patagonia, Argentina

Spanish = Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay, Venezuela. The easiest country to understand Spanish in is Colombia, the hardest is Chile. Argentina and Uruguay have their own accent and pronounce ‘ll’ as ‘sh’ instead of ‘y’

Dutch = Suriname

English = Guyana

French = French Guiana

Portuguese = Brazil

South America can be a bit intimidating to travel through if you don’t know any Spanish. The continent is so vast that booking a tour of South America ensures that not only will you feel supported during your stay, but your whole South American trip is taken care of for you, and all you have to do is just turn up! It makes it so much easier.

The tours can differ according to activities and depending on who you have in your group, so check the daily itineraries to see which one is the perfect fit for you. Below are our recommended solo female-friendly South America tour companies. 

G Adventures South America

G Adventures is a responsible tour company that mainly caters for budget travellers. Their tours include active and classic tours, National Geographic Journeys, and tours in South America for 18s to 35s. They have tours for every type of solo, and most have a maximum of 15 people.

G Adventures South America tours range from a 5 day Bolivia Express seeing salt flats and desert landscapes, a 17 day Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro tour, to an epic 51 day Rio to Lima adventure exploring Machu Picchu, markets, and so much more.

Once you book your trip, you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there. If you are planning on seeing more than one country. I have personally been on a G Adventure South America tour and recommend them as a solo female-friendly company. For my G Adventures South America review and other South America tours reviews read here.

* Click here for all South America tours, itineraries and prices: G Adventures

G Adventures Machu Picchu & Inca Empire – 15 Days

If seeing Machu Picchu is on your travel wish list, this 15-day tour takes you through Peru to see the best of the Incas. Beginning in Bolivia, you start in La Paz and end in Lima and embrace the cultures of both countries in-between. Over two weeks, you’ll experience the bustling market of La Paz, across the altiplano to Puno to stay in a homestay on Lake Titicaca before hopping on a bus to Cusco to prepare some traditional Peruvian cuisine.

The main highlights on this tour have to be the Inca Empire; the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo and of course, the Inca trail where you’ll be hiking through Andean scenery, and Incan ruins. You also visit a G Adventures-supported women’s weaving co-op and pottery making community. You’ll be staying in hotels, homestays and camping and travelling in many different ways including buses, ferries and hiking. All breakfasts are included as well as some additional lunches and dinners.

* Click here for tour information, prices and the full itinerary  

G Adventures Patagonia – 14 Days

Discover Patagonia and Buenos Aires on this 2-week tour experiencing the best of this South American region. Learn how to tango in Argentina’s capital before exploring San Carlos de Bariloche on a bike tour. Then take one of the most scenic ferry cruises in the world in the Chilean Lake District before catching a flight to Torres del Paine National Park for stunning nature, waterfalls, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.

You’ll learn all about the glaciers with the help of a local guide and on a boat tour that takes you to the front of the glacier. The tour ends by seeing penguins as well as Seal Island, and Bird Island, before flying back to Buenos Aires. Accommodation in hotels with daily breakfasts included.

* Click here for tour information, prices and the full itinerary 

G Adventures Galapagos Islands & Inca Discovery – 14 Days

This two-week tour is perfect for those who are short on time. You get to experience the Andes highlands and Ecuador plus cruise around the Galapagos Islands and snorkel amongst the sea lions at Black Turtle Cove. Starting in Quito you begin the tour on Santa Cruz after a flight to the Galapagos to see the giant tortoises that the island is known for. There is so much wildlife here from iguanas, to flamingos and numerous bird species that it is the perfect trip for the wildlife Girl about the Globe.

After the Galapagos Islands, you travel around Peru, cooking Peruvian dishes, seeing the Sacred Valley, and Ollantaytambo before hiking the famous Inca Trail through the Andes Mountains to the majestic Machu Picchu. Accommodation is on a boat for 4 nights, camping and hotels. All breakfasts and many lunches and dinners are included.

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear a bit more costly than G Adventures. Their trips are carbon offset and range from an 8 day Inca Trail Express from Lima to an epic 24 day Galapagos & Peru Adventure travelling through Peru, Quito and the Galapagos Islands, with other trips in-between.

With both tour companies, you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room.

*  Click here for all South America tours, itineraries and prices: Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Inca Trail Express – 8 Days

Retrace the steps of the Incas with this week-long trip to Peru. Hike ancient pathways along the Inca trail and see the best Inca sites that this country has to offer. The trip starts in Lima and finishes in Cusco. You get to explore South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Cusco, sample some Peruvian ceviche and see the old colonial influences in the city before heading to the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo.

There is the option to trek either the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail but you’ll need a good level of fitness for this adventure. Choose Route 1 and you’ll be staying in basic camping facilities, opt for a mix of camping and hotels on Route 2, or stay in hotels for the whole 8 days on Route 3.

*  Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Intrepid Patagonia Wilderness – 15 Days

If you are looking for a two-week tour, hiking through amazing scenery then this Patagonia Wilderness is ideal. From Buenos Aires to the remote wilderness of Patagonia, you can witness the giant Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, see the wondrous peaks and camp amongst them, and trek past glaciers and waterfalls spotting birdlife on the way.

The journey begins and ends in the Argentinean capital of Buenos Aires where you can sample tango, and the famous Argentina steaks. Accommodation is mainly in hotels with 3 nights camping under the stars. Daily breakfasts are included.

Sacred Land of the Incas – 15 Days

This 15-day trip encompasses the sacred land of the Incas with a trip to the Amazon jungle. From ruins to rainforest, it is a great way to experience South America’s different terrains.

Spend time in the Peruvian Amazon, cruising into the jungle on a motorised canoe before staying overnight in an eco-lodge and sleeping in the jungle. Learn about the medicinal uses of the Amazonian plants whilst spotting wildlife both during the day and on a night walk.

After the jungle, you get to travel to the famous Inca spots such as Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley, Cusco, Puno where you take part in a Lake Titicaca homestay, Puno and La Paz, where you’ll end your two-week adventure in the Bolivian capital, the highest capital city in the world.

You’ll be camping, staying in a jungle lodge and a hotel and have each breakfast included along with half the meals.

Day Tours in South America

Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day tours in worldwide destinations including South America. Choose from a Cusco: full-day tour to Rainbow Mountain in Peru, a Christ the Redeemer train ticket in Brazil, or a full-day Torres del Paine tour in Patagonia. There are so many to choose from and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online.

* Check all tours, prices and availability for South America

The harbour of Rio de Janeiro

Travelling South America Budget

These budgets are based on a daily spend including accommodation (staying in a dormitory room in a hostel), food, water, transport (using local transport only), and leisure. You will need to add cost if you prefer to stay in a private room. Prices are quoted in Pound Sterling (GBP) and converted to U.S. $ (the conversion rate can differ slightly).

Budget –  From £20 to £100+

The cheapest countries are Bolivia, Ecuador and Colombia. The most expensive are The Falkland Islands, Uruguay, and Guyana.

Argentina – £45 / $60 USD

Bolivia – £20 / $26

Brazil – £40 / $51

Chile – £35 / $45

Colombia – £25 / $34

Ecuador – £23   / $30

Falkland Islands – £100+ / $135+ (it’s easier to take a tour over several days)

French Guiana – £60 / $80

Guyana – £45 / $60

Galapagos Islands – £60 / $80 (not including cruises)

Paraguay – £30 / $40

Peru – £25   / $34

Suriname – £50 / $67

Uruguay – £65 / $87

Venezuela – £25 / $34

Itineraries for South America backpacking trips

Argentina & Uruguay – Buenos Aries, Montevideo, Colonia del Sacramento Colombia – Bogota, fly to Medellin, fly to Cartagena, Santa Marta. Patagonia – El Calafate, Glacier National Park, El Chalten, Rio Blanco Base Camp, El Chalten, El Calafate.

Ecuador & Galapagos – Quito, San Cristobal Island, South Plaza Island, North Seymour Island, Chinese Hat, Las Bachas, Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island, Espanola Island, Cerro Brujo, Kicker Rock, San Cristobal, Quito. Brazil & Argentina – Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro.

Peru – Lima, fly to Cusco, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu.

Argentina to Brazil – Buenos Aires, Colonia, Montevideo, Iguazu Falls, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro.

Peru to Ecuador – Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Puno, Lake Titicaca, La Paz.

Amazon & Ecuador – Quito, Tena, Banos, Alausi, Guayaquil, Guayas River, Puerto Lopez, Machalilla National Park, Quito, San Clemente, Otavalo, Quito.

Colombia – Bogota, Villa de Leyva, Armenia, Calarca, Cocora Valley, Salento, Medellin, fly to Cartagena, Santa Marta, Minca, Taganga, Tayrona National Park, Lost City trek, Santa Marta.

Peru to Brazil – Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Chivay, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Puno, Lake Ti caca, La Paz, Uyuni, Salt Flats, Potosi, Sucre, Santa Cruz, Puerto Suarez, Corumba, Pantanal, Bonito, Iguazu Falls, fly to San Paulo, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro.

Cartagena to Quito – Cartagena, Santa Marta, Lost City trek, Taganga, Minca, Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta, Cali, Pereira, Manizales, Medellin, Bogota, fly to Quito, Cotopaxi, Otavalo, Quito.

* My first trip to South America was with G Adventures on their Southern Divide tour. Over 3 weeks we travelled from Peru to Bolivia and overland to Chile. The tour was amazing and I definitely recommend them if you are feeling nervous about travelling to this part of the world alone.

* Click here for South American itineraries, prices, and start dates

You may also like...

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Contact Us...

[email protected]

Search the site...

The small print....

Girl about the Globe Copyright © 2012-2024

Web by Eldo Web Design Ltd

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » South America » Packing List

South America Packing List? • You HAVE to see these 23 Items (2024)

So, you’re feeling ultra adventurous and ambitious and have decided to take on South America as your next backpacking venture? To that we say: bravo! We’re impressed and super stoked for you!

As the fourth largest continent in the world made up of 12 countries – each with their own unique topographies and cultures – tackling South America is no easy feat. The place is huge . With varying extremes from scorching jungle to freezing glaciers – and activities from tango dancing to big-wave surfing – knowing what your South America packing essentials are is baffling.

And here we are to help, friends! We’ve put together this South America survival guide with you in mind. Together, we’ll walk through your what to pack for South America plan step by step.

So, get comfy, and prepare to absorb all this valuable information to get you primed and prepped for everything South America has to offer. One thing’s for certain, you’re in for a wild and unforgettable ride!

And off we go…

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

The Ultimate South America Packing List

What to pack for south america checklist: personal stuff, the basic stuff to pack for south america, final thoughts on what to pack for south america.

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Capacity > 30L
• Price > $299

Nomatic Navigator Carry On

• Capacity > 37L
• Price > $400

GoPro Hero 11

• Resolution > 5k

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

• Price > $600

Insurance From World Nomads

• Price > Click For a Quote

Below you’ll find a top needs packing list: tips and tricks, what to wear while travelling South America , a breakdown of overall seasonal weather conditions and how to pack for them – plus some special packing suggestions for guys and gals, and also what not to pack.

Best Backpack For South America:  Nomatic Travel Bag

Before you even take on the task of figuring out what to pack for South America, you’ll need an amazing backpack to pack it all into. For all types of travelers and destinations, our number one recommendation is the  Nomatic Travel Bag .

The Nomatic travel bag covers every detail to make backpacking travel the best experience. Because of its smart design, it manages to provide loads of packing space in a convenient, carry-on size package! Its handy built-in pockets make plenty of room for all the necessities on your what to pack for South America checklist – you’ll find separate compartments for important items like shoes, water bottle, electronics, underwear and darn tough socks . As an added bonus, there’s also an RFID-safe and cord management pocket.

You have a choice between backpack or duffel bag carry, and extra carrying comfort for your back thanks to its innovative strap system and detachable sternum strap. And its black, waterproof material is every bit sleek and modern as it is durable and tough. There is a reason why most Broke Backpacker staff swear by this backpack.

Best Suitcase For South America:  Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Backpacks not your thing? That’s ok. Our friends at Nomatic are back again with a great alternative to their badass Travel Bag; the Nomatic Carry-On Pro. 

This suitcase is ultra-durable, sleek, and comes with a handy tech compartment for transporting your laptop and other electronic bits. Nomatic has been an industry leader when it comes to travel gear and that reputation is reflected in the quality build design and functionality of the Carry-On Pro suitcase.  I’ll be honest, I would need more space in my luggage than a carry on allows for such an epic trip. However, if you can pack light for South America then you can take full advantage of budget flights.

Check out our  Nomatic Carry-On Pro review  to learn more about this epic suitcase. 

Best Camera For South America:  GoPro Hero9 Black

For most of us, our smartphones now feature cameras with stunning photo capabilities.

But… if you are an aspiring photographer who wants to take next-level photos and video beyond iPhone selfies, I recommend going with an action camera like the  GoPro Hero9 Black .

It does deliver pro-quality video and gives you a bunch of a different angle options and shooting speeds to work with for photos (including a selfie-mode).

Think of a camera purchase like this as a long term investment that will have you capturing epic shots well beyond your time exploring here. If you are looking for something cheaper for video specifically, check out these epic  GoPro Alternatives .

Best Sim For South America – HolaFly eSim

The good news about South America is that there is pretty good 4g and 5g Internet coverage, taxi apps and food delivery apps. The bad news is that your native SIM card will not work and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around phone shops queuing to get a local SIM card or you can simply install a eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the HolaFly site, choose the package you need, download it and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport.

eSims are easier to set up and better than the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim ready.

Packing Cubes For South America – Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and to keep it all better organised.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few.

These ones from WANDRD are great quality and excellent value for money.

In terms of what to wear in South America, there is rather a lot to think about. Firstly, climates vary DRASTICALLY deepening on where, and on when you go. For example, November in Bogota is cool and autumnal but up in Cartagena they have tropical heat and tropical rain. In Argentina and Chile, they get full blown winters.

You will also need to be mindful of not dressing like a tourist all the time as this will make you a target for thieves.

Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero Walking Shoes

It is true that a lot of South America backpackers spent the whole trip in sandals and flip flops. This is however foolhardy for a number of reasons. Firstly, no matter where you go there will be a lot of walking involved whether this is simply exploring the cities or hitting the trails. Further, wearing flip flop in Cosmopolitan cities like Buenos Aires and Bogota simply screams “tourist”.

I admit that most shoes that are also good for hiking are not the most attractive pieces of footwear. But they are some of the most comfortable and deliver good ankle support for a long day of walking about town. I mean, your body is already going to be suffering enough from all of those 2-for-1 mojito’s, beers and other famous South American party substances.

Plus, the Ande mountains offer some of the best hikes in the whole world. From the Inca trail, to Colombia’s La Ciudad Perdida, get your walking shoes on and get out there!

Check out the  women’s Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero . 

Matador Travel Towel

Towels are essential backpacking gear as a lot of hostels don’t provide them or if they do, they may not really be all that clean. However don’t bring a ‘normal’ towel on your backpacking journeys, they are big and take up loads of room in your pack and they take ages to dry.

Travel pros like use micro-fibre dry towels that roll up into tiny, space saving proportions AND they dry unbelievably quick. Granted, they are not quite as comforting as a cotton towel but its a trade of that travellers need to make. A good micro-fibre travel towers is essential travel gear on any ultimate backpacking gear list.

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots

If you plan on doing some serious hiking in South America, then you should consider bringing some boots.

This is especially pertinent if you are going above 3500 metres, or are going hiking in Chile, Argentina or Patagonia where it gets really icy and snowy.

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody

Did somebody just say Patagonia?! Whilst most people imagine South America to be steaming hot, the truth is that a lot of regions get some real weather diversity. If you are headed to Colombia, Peru or Ecuador, then the evenings can get very cool in the elevated regions.

It weighs just under a pound and provides an excellent weight to warmth ratio. If you don’t go for one of the super bright colors, it is pretty stylish and city-worthy also. 

Some form of jacket is absolutely essential for South America.

Check out our  best travel jackets  article for more inspiration. 

Arc’teryx Beta AR

Did you know that the surface of the earth is over 70% covered in water? And you know how that water got there? Yep because it tends to here rain here on planet earth quite a lot! It is almost a given that at some point in South America, you will come across some hardcore rain. Whether you hit the Caribbean monsoon season, or simply get wet in the afternoon Amazon downpour, a rain jacket will get a good workout.

There is no such thing as bad weather, only the wing gear for it. Don’t let a bit (of a lot) of rain ruin your trip and make sure you are ready with some top notch rain gear.

This is our pick of the many rain jackets we have tried. It’s reliable & stylish and looks good worn out in the mountains or in city bars.

So it rains a lot of in South America and all that water ends up somewhere! There are endless chances to get wet in South America. The beaches of Brazil should need no introduction by now but then there is the lush Amazon river (watch the piranha’s though) and even landlocked cities like Bogota have natural hot springs in commuting distance!

Swimming gear is an essential piece of South America packing.

Travel First Aid Kit

You don’t need to tote around half a pharmacy, but a well-stocked first aid kit should be in all our backpacks. Stuff happens on the road and it’s inconvenient and embarrassing when you can’t manage small situations like a cut finger or hangover migraine.

You can tuck this lifesaver away in a forgotten pocket – and it’ll be there when you need it.

Tip: Add a few bits and pieces to the first aid kit after you purchase it, like extra headache medicine, any personal meds you need (like allergy pills), whatever you take to calm your stomach and a few more plasters.

Travel Insurance From World Nomads

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Planner/Travel Journal

Keeping a journal is one of the best things to do when traveling. The Drifter Leather Journal by Kodiak is our favorite, it works great for digital nomads and organized backpackers and can be used as planner or a dream diary – whatever you want! 

Keep on track with your goals, travels and save those precious memories, especially the ones you do not want to share online. This one is bound in beautiful leather so it looks beautiful and will withstand life on the road.

Abaco Sunglasses

A reliable pair of sunglasses is undoubtedly one of your South America packing essentials. Our favorites are Abaco Polarized Sunglasses because they deliver on quality and style. 

They’re built tough with triple-layer scratch-resistant lenses and trademarked Adventure-proof Frame Material. You can also customize them with your choice of lens and frame colors to reflect your own style. 

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Another backpacker/traveler favorite for staying organized is a  hanging toiletry bag . It’s extremely helpful to have all of your accessories neatly gathered in one bag that you can hang for easy accessibility, especially when counter space isn’t plentiful or even available.

A well-organized bag is worth having whether you’re tree whilst camping or a hook in the wall – it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

Historically, I have been the guy who has my stuff all over the bathroom, so getting one of these things really changed the toiletry game for me. Plus they are not too expensive either. A no-brainer essential. 

This one by Nomatic is possibly the best toiletry bag on the market. It is made from water resistant, wipe cleanable material that guarantees longevity and it offers excellent organisational capabilities. It is also comes with a hang-up-hook so you can hang it over the shower head or your hostel bed.

OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops

Circling back to the footwear question, now we are going to talk about sandals. There is always a time and place for flip flops and sandals and South America is no exception. From the beaches of Rio to the poolsides of La Paz, you will not regret throwing a pair of these in your South America packing.

These Olukai flip flops are ultra-comfortable, well-made, and come in a variety of colors. 

Check out the  women’s OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops . 

Money Belt By Pacsafe

There is no point denying that South America can be VERY dangerous and tourists are sometimes targeted by thieves. Watch out for bag snatchers, pick pockets and be careful with your drinks as spikings with drugs do occur.

And then there is the violent muggings – I was personally jacked at knife point and I know a few people who had guns pulled on them.

Therefore it is always a good idea to use a money belt to hide your cash just in case something does go wrong.

Patagonia Fitz Roy Trucker

Even on cold days, the sun can be very strong in the Ande’s and can faces in minutes. A good hat is therefore a wise investment. They are also useful for going incognito when you don’t want to stand out like a sore Gringo.

Patagonia makes great hats. I have probably bought three or four of these over the last five years. Simple. Practical. Comfortable. That is what you are after.

Waterbottle –  Hydroflask Vacuum Bottle 32 oz. 

Packing a reusable water bottle is probably the best thing you can personally do to combat single-use plastic bottle use whilst traveling. There is simply zero need to buy plastic water bottles. Tap water is mixed bag in South America and its safety varies from one town to the next. Still, you can buy bags of water cheaply and use these to fill up your water bottle.

We love the Hydroflask Vacum Bottle for its quality and because it keeps cold water  cold  for many hours and vice versa for hot beverages. This bottle is the ideal water bottle to get not just for your South America trip but for daily use. Please don’t be that person buying plastic water bottles. We are all judging you…especially mother earth. 

If you go with the Hydroflask, you’ll probably never need to buy another waterbottle again. 

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Headlamps are great for traveling for many reasons. Firstly, they are useful as hell if you go camping or on an early sunrise mountain hike. Then, they come in useful for finding your way to your hostel bed at 3am without having to turn the lights on. They are also a Godsend if there is a power cut (pretty common in India, Nepal or Venezuela) and great for navigating darkened alleyways in Turkey & Spain.

Not all headlamps were created equal and this is one of the best. The Petzl Actik Core comes with a USB rechargeable battery (full recharge in 3 hours or less); however, it is compatible with AAA batteries. Water-resistance is another critical feature. This product can withstand splashing; but keep in mind, water-resistant does NOT mean waterproof.

MSR Hubba Hubba 2p

South America presents some awesome camping opportunities. To make the most of them, bring yourself a good quality backpacking tent.

This is more the choice for those in the market for budget backpacking gear. It’s got all the perks of a top-notch backpacking tent without all the freakishly high numbers on the price tag.

Yeah, it may not quite make the cut as ultralight backpacking gear but think of what you’re getting! The MSR Hubba Hubba 2p  is mega-roomy and has multiple of pockets for keeping your self organized when settling in for the night.As far as budget backpacking tents go, this is one of the best. It’s a happy medium between the ‘prepared for anything’ mode and the ‘I wanted to go for a trek so I bought this for 2000 rupees’ afterthought.

Nemo Disco 15

At some point in your trip to South America, you will probably go camping or at the very least will spend a night at a hostel with insufficient bedding, or with dirty bedding that you would rather not lay in. Therefore bringing a sleeping bag is often a great investment.

There are a LOT of sleeping bags on the market today and we have tried a lot of them. The quality and standards varies and not always in correlation with the price – pricey does not always mean better. The Nemo Disco 15 is a great all rounder sleeping bag packing in warmth, durability and a reasonable price tag.

On top of the essential items listed above, here is an additional suggested checklist of what to pack for a South America trip:

• A few pairs of comfortable pants/jeans
• 1-2 pairs of shorts (summer/late spring)
• A few pairs of socks
• (Sexy) underwear x 2/3
• Ladies: a few dresses, pants, outfits, or desired lady apparel for a night on the town. Whatever makes you comfy! 
• Dudes: A few collard shirts or something half-way decent for a night on the town. Whatever makes you comfy! 
• Smartphone with a good camera for photos if you are not bringing an actual camera
• Portable power bank  for charging your phone on the go
• Phone charger
• Amazon Kindle  for reading by the pool
• Copy of your passport just in case
• Cash (not too much, there are ATM machines everywhere
• Packable Towel

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

And that’s it for your South America survival guide, amigos! You now have everything you ever wanted to know about what to pack for South America. As you prepare, refer back to the top-23 needs packing list, our tips on what to wear in South America and how to pack for the varying seasonal conditions. Remember that you also have our special packing recommendations for women and men – plus, what NOT to pack for South America.

Just keep in mind that South America is a BIG place, so be sure to do any necessary research for the specific countries on your itinerary for any extra gear or safety precautions you’ll need to take for more advanced activities. But, overall, follow our tips, and you’ll be ready for anything that wonderful South America throws your way!

Ok, you can get excited now!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Claire Sturzaker

Share or save this post

Hi Ana, I’ve just read your post and found it so really helpful! Just a question: you talked about many terrific destinations, WHY you never mentioned Colombia? I’ll leave for my backpack trip to South America in November, and I will start from Medellin and Cartagena. Thanks again for your super-useful post, v.

Hi Vanessa, You can check out the Colombia backpacking guide here https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/backpacking-colombia/ Have an awesome trip!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

South America Packing List

This expansive continent is by far one of the best in the world for a backpacking trip.

Here you can explore some of the most remote jungles in the world (The Amazon), as well as lap up the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Pacific, or, even the Atlantic.

Once you’ve decided that you’ll be going to South America, it’s now time to start packing.

What's in this guide?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll be looking at everything you’ll need to bring for your trip, as well as key things to leave at home. Finally, we’ll have an FAQ section where we’ll answer anything else that you need to know.

What NOT to carry to South America

When planning for this giant, it’s very easy to try to fit everything you find into your backpack. What if I need this? Or how about if this happens?

In our experience, whether traveling South America on a budget or not, around a third of the things you carry you’ll probably not end up using, which only takes up precious space!

Let’s explore 5 things NOT to carry to South America.

• A Mosquito Net – Yes mosquitoes are a big problem in many areas of this region, so you may wonder why we’ve included this. A net takes up too much space, and you could easily just borrow or rent one wherever you are staying that requires it. Likewise, you can easily get some high-quality insect repellant , or (if you don’t like the smell), buy a Plug-In Deterrent to keep these foes at bay.
• A Restrictive Travel Insurance Policy – When backpacking, you’re going to be more open and of course taking more risks, whether it be adventure hikes, adrenaline-fuelled activities or more. And in South America the opportunities are simply endless. One big mistake many backpackers make is going too cheap with travel insurance, which ends up providing too little cover.
• A Larger than Life Backpack – In most cases, “bigger is better”. However when it comes to backpacking, this isn’t always the case (well at least in this particular example). When choosing a backpack, going bigger can create more problems than solutions for you. Firstly it’s easy to bring too much, which can mean you have to pay extra baggage fees at the airport. And the other? You’ll have to carry it around, and the heavier it it’s, the more your back is going to complain. Choose a backpack that’s between 50-70 litres such as this one for men or this one of ladies .
• Non-Versatile Clothes – This depends on where you want to visit, but most backpackers heading here usually want to visit different countries (or at least different terrains). And many of these will vary in altitude and temperatures, meaning you’ll need to pack a variety of layers. The best thing to do in this case is to pack clothes that can be used in several contexts. For example, a stylish vest is perfect for the hot beaches, and also good as an under-layer for mountainous treks.

South America Checklist

Having put aside what not to carry, now it is time to get everything else together. Here’s our comprehensive checklist of things you need to carry when heading to South America.

Part A: Important Items

• Credit Cards
• Driving License
• COVID Tests (depending on the country)
• Travel Insurance Document
• Visa (if necessary)
• Any Medications
• First-Aid Kit
• Anything else you Personally CANNOT travel without

Part B: Clothes

• Baseball Cap (for hotter weather)
• Chullo Hat (for colder climates)
• Polarised Sunglasses (see Dan’s favorite shades for backpacking)
• T-Shirts (4-5)
• Vests (4-5)
• Jumpers (1-2)
• Thick Coat (if heading to cold areas)
• Rainproof Jacket / Poncho (George swears by these)
• Sundress (2-3)
• Bikini (1-2)
• Swimming Trunks (1-2)
• Jeans (1-2)
• Shorts (2-3)
• Ankle / Normal Socks (7-8)
• Shoes (1-2)
• Hiking Boots (1 Max)
• Sandals (1-2)

Part C: Miscellaneous

• Mosquito Repellant
• Digital Camera / GoPro
• Travel Adapter
• Electrical Items
• Spare Wallet
• Swimming Accessories
• Water Bottle
• Anything else that’s necessary for you (emphasis on necessary)

When going through this list, it’s important to first consider where you’re heading, and therefore you’ll instinctively know which items to carry or leave.

Now here’s another important thing to consider. This continent tends to attract the more daring and risk-taking travelers, and those who are also more spontaneous. So with all this in mind, it’s a good idea to pack some of the other things “just in case”.

For example, if you’re only thinking you’ll head to South Brazil, then who knows, you may end up finding your way into Bolivia! Stranger things have happened…

Got travel insurance for South America?

Having covered what you’ll need, we’ll now list some of the best items you can carry with you when backpacking through South America.

BioLite Charge 80 PD Power Bank

Product Features:

• Compact and Light
• Use with Various Electronics
• Full Charge in a few Hours

Check Price via REI

Long bus rides are an inevitable part of your trip through South America. This handy device will keep you charged all along the way, and even has additional outputs for any electronics (including your laptop or shaver, so it’s not just limited to phones).

• Best Definition and Quality Possible
• 360° Spherical Capture
• Ultimate Stabilisation

This is an ultimate must-carry when heading to this continent. There’s so many unreal landscapes to be explored, that you’ll want to capture it all in the best quality possible. A GoPro is also great for capturing high definition during activities like surfing or mountain biking.

Danner Mountain 600 Full-Grain Leather Hiking Boots

• Technical Hiking Function
• Lightweight Design
• Stylish Look

There’s a good chance you’ll be hiking when in South America, and you’re going to need some high quality hiking boots. These leather boots by Danner tick all of our boxes, as not only do they give you control, they also look great too. For the ladies out there, be sure to check out these durable hiking boots designed by KEEN.

Pacsafe Coversafe X100 Waistpack

• Keep Money Safe
• Comfortable on the Skin
• Good Value for Price

One of your biggest priorities on your trip is to keep your things as safe as possible (given there’s a higher risk of theft here). One of the best ways to prevent this issue is by wearing a Money Belt, with this particular design both well hidden and made with comfort in mind.

Backpacker Poncho

• Reliable and High Quality Materials
• Perfect for Longer Hikes
• Takes up Little Space

Yep – The rains are an unavoidable thing when heading to South America. Given it’s so big, there’s many varying micro-climates with their own things going on, so you’ll want to be prepared. This poncho does the job well, and doesn’t make you feel sticky like other lower-quality ponchos.

SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

• Intuitive Sealing Design
• Convenient and Compact Storage
• Removable Shoulder Straps

On the theme of staying dry, you’ll also want to keep your things seco too! This awesome dry pack is perfect for South America, given there’s a good chance you’ll be hiking through wet rainforests or exploring in stormy weather. SealLine has done an awesome job here, where you’ll have a zip-tight seal as well as plenty of space.

Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveler Pillow

• Perfect for Long Trips
• Weighs Very Little

As backpackers who have suffered from back or neck pains in the past, we both know that a long bus ride isn’t the most comfortable of journeys. This travel pillow has been a saving grace, since its comfortable design allows you to get comfortable and allow your body to rest without aches. An absolute must-carry in our opinion!

Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L

• Perfect for Daytime Exploring
• Very Spacious
• High Quality Design

Whilst you’ll need a good quality backpack for moving around, your day pack is even more important given this is what you’ll be carrying out daily. Your biggest requirements here are durability and space, and this Day Pack by Peak Design has really been made with the backpacker in mind. An essential carry in our opinion.

South America Packing List FAQs

How much cash should i take to south america.

It really depends on where you’re heading first, as some countries are cheaper than others. In general, we would say that carrying $250 in cash is a good start, which is enough to get you started. If landing in Chile, Brazil or Uruguay first, then raise this to $300-350. Why not see this list of cheap countries in South America to visit for more ideas on where to go?

What is the dress code in South America?

There’s no strict dress code in Peru, it’s more of a free-for-all than anything else. The main thing to keep in mind is being sensible for your own sake. Packing light clothes and heading to the Andes isn’t such as good idea, so always check the weather and climates of where you plan to go and pack accordingly.

Is South America Safe?

As a whole, it’s best to approach this continent with some skepticism (anything less and you’re asking for trouble). This doesn’t mean you have to be full-on paranoid all the time, it just means an extra look now and then when you’re in busy areas with your bags, and not over-trusting anyone you’ve met recently.

Can you drink the water in South America?

And that’s all for our guide on what to pack for South America.

This sprawling continent promises endless adventure and fun, and you’ll most likely find yourself staying longer than originally expected.

When it comes to packing though, it can be somewhat daunting. However in this guide we’ve covered everything you’ll be needing, as well as some things best left at home. We’ve also included an FAQ section too, where we answer your most burning questions.

See our backpacking South America guide for more travel tips and advice.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

Similar Posts

Is Machu Picchu safe?

Welcome to our Machu Picchu safety guide. This legendary ancient site is simply a must-visit when in Peru, and is a perfect way of kicking off a longer trip around South America. Not only is Machu Picchu an incredible site to behold with an ever-present mist and mountainous backdrop, however it’s also a good intro…

How to plan a trip to Central America on a budget

In this guide, we want to talk about visiting Central America on a budget. We’ll cover important things to know about traveling Central America, including the different currencies used, languages spoken, some safety tips as well best practices for getting in and around the region. How to plan a trip to Central America on a…

Is Bolivia Expensive?

How much do you need when traveling around Bolivia? One of the most diverse countries you can visit in South America, Bolivia has literally something for everyone here. Those into adventure can hike through the Amazon Jungle from Rurrenabaque, whilst La Paz and Sucre have plenty of unique sights to see in and around the…

Is Buenos Aires Safe?

Welcome to our Buenos Aires safety guide. A bucket list city for most travelers heading to South America, the Argentinian capital has tonnes going for it. Here we can visit impressive sights such as the Recoleta Ceremony and the Teatro Colón, as well as try out a Tango dancing class (or watch the locals put…

Backpacking Ecuador Itinerary

Welcome to our backpacking Ecuador itinerary. If you want to visit South America, you’ll find that Ecuador is one of the best options to consider. Ecuador is a beautiful country that attracts all kinds of tourists; whether you’re looking for adventure or leisure, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy your time in the country….

Best time to visit Machu Picchu

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu? This legendary site has pretty much everything going for it. Not only is it steeped in history and has a mysterious feel to the place, it’s also a real adventure to get to. Visiting Machu Picchu during your trip to Peru is a must, and we’d…

The Pedal Project

What to pack for a trip to south america (2021 update).

Hello from Colombia! Or should I say, hola?!? (Nope, I should definitely not say that). 

Any-w-ayyyys….I’m officially on the road and kicking off my South America travels with the country that sits at the top of the continent. I was originally drawn here because of the thriving digital nomad scene and plentiful coworking spaces in Medellín. But, after a bit more research, I was delighted to find that backpacking in Colombia for a few months is nothing short an adventure traveler’s dream.

When you travel in South America the first thing you’ll notice is that it seems to have a bit of, well, everything . In fact, it’s the most biodiverse continent on Earth – and Colombia is one of the countries that tops that list.  Which, for me, makes it the perfect introduction to what I’m just going to starting calling the Year of South America Travel.

Because, why the heck not?

And now the real challenge: not only what to pack for the trip – but how to fit it all into two carry-ons.

All that biodiversity – from cold mountaintops to tropical beaches to arid deserts to humid jungles – means that deciding what to pack for a trip that will be longer than 6 months can be just a tad tricky.  Add in the fact that I’m not doing a traditional South American backpacking trip, and it’s just downright difficult.

You see, I’m going to pick key cities with reliable digital nomad communities that I can call my home base for a few months. I’ll then do weekend trips and, between cities, spend a few weeks hopping around with my backpacks and seeing the attractions. That means, I’m packing all the essentials for travel in South America, but I’m also packing a computer and camera gear, so I can keep this lifestyle up.

One backpack that fits in the overhead bins of an airplane. One that would be considered my personal item and will need to fit under the seat in front of me.

So, how does one pack for a trip to South America? Travel with me (even if just virtually) and you’ll learn two things: everything needs to have at least 2 purposes, and I only bring things that I think I’ll absolutely need in the short term or don’t think I’ll find overseas .

For example, you’ll notice that things like a handbag, scarves and even a great pair of shoes didn’t make the cut. I really love picking up things like this as functional souvenirs that tell a great story and hold memories from the road.

When it comes to other items – like a Malaria kit (an essential for South America travel) or spare toiletries – I plan to get them on the road. When you are spending a month or longer traveling, you will need to do laundry, grocery shop and, yes, buy more soap. Fortunately, these are all things that the locals do regularly, and you will easily be able to find what you need. You may even find what you are looking for much cheaper than at home. I know this has already held true for a few medications and electronics I needed to pick up last week. 

So without further ado, here is my packing checklist for my South America travels. 

My Favorite Travel Backpacks

These are the rockstars that hold it all together – literally. And deciding which backpack size you go with is one of the most important decisions for your South American travels. It will determine how much you bring, but it will also determine whether you pay extra fees for checked luggage at the airports, if you’ll need a spare seat on regional buses and more.

• 40L Osprey Farpoint Travel Backpack (review coming soon) – my main squeeze, with all the essentials
• 28L Refugio Patagonia Backpack – the “personal item” daypack backpack that holds my computer, passport and spare camera gear

Clothes and Accessories for Traveling in South America 

This could be parred down a bit, depending on where you are going. However, I know that I’ll be doing a mix of activities in varying climates while traveling throughout South America. And, when I’m in the cities, I don’t want to look like a total tourist.

So, I like to pack a mix of “normal people clothes,” functional backpacking items, and hiking/trekking gear. I focus on items that are synthetic or wool (no cotton!), will withstand multiple washes, don’t wrinkle easily, and that I can mix and match.

I’ve never traveled to South America, so I did extensive research and spent about a week getting the following packing checklist finessed. Once I did, I used Eagle Creek Pack-It Compression Bags to pack everything down. These work great for clothes and, now that I’ve finally started packing and traveling with them, I’m never looking back. They come in a pair and I used both the Medium sizes, but only one Large. 

• 1 pair of dark skinny jeans
• 1 pair stretchy cropped jeggings
• 1 pair of loose pants
• 2 leggings/workout pants
• 1 pair jean shorts
• 1 pair of casual shorts
• 1 pair gym shorts
• 3 are for nicer occasions
• 1 is a Vuori travel shirt in Dove Grey
• 1 is a wool travel shirt  
• 3 tank tops
• 2 crop tops – optional to pack, but fit right into the Medellín nightlife scene 
• 1 athletic top
• 2 bright maxi dresses – 1 would be plenty, but I love that these are a full outfit, make you look put together and photograph well!
• 1 jean jacket
• 1 Smartwool Women’s 250 Merino ¼ Zip Baselayer for cooler nights and treks
• 1 Patagonia puffy
• 1 lightweight Mammut Compressible Rain Jacket + stuff sack – for adventuring and hiking in the rain
• 1 Storied Hats Sustainable Hemp Baseball Cap for travel days and hikes

Undergarments

• 1 Summersalt one piece made from sustainable materials
• 1 two piece 
• 3 bras – you could probably get away with 2 and I will probably leave one behind when I move to the next city
• 4 sports bras – 2 are longline and can double as shirts at the gym
• 1 of the travel pair is the Icebreaker Siren Women’s Hipkini  
• 1 Smartwool Travel Socks
• 1 Arvin Goods Sustainable Crew Socks for hiking 
• 1 pair comfortable walking shoes – I plan to replace these as I go
• 1 pair of tennis shoes for light hikes and the gym
• 1 pair of comfortable but stylish sandals
• Optional: Merrell Waterproof Hiking Boots – these are only necessary if you KNOW you are doing a multi-day trek or camping

Accessories

• 2 necklaces 
• Misc Bracelets
• Rings (not expensive) 
• 1 headscarf
• 1 pair of Goodr sunglasses
• Optional: 1 pair cycling/gym gloves – I go to the gym while on the road and am planning at least one bicycle tour

Toiletries & Cosmetics

A South America travel agenda will require some of the usuals and then some due to varying water quality, jungle climates and a risk of some food-borne illnesses.

As I mentioned above, I chose to pick up some medications while on the road because I knew that they’d be cheaper. Other things, like my favorite supplements that I knew I couldn’t find overseas, I decided to bring with. Any liquids were in 2-4 oz TSA-approved travel containers (and can be refilled as I go) and everything fits into one generic cosmetics bag that I picked up at a CVS or Target. 

• Bamboo toothbrush
• Powder toothpaste
• 2 oz of shampoo
• 2 oz of conditioner
• 2 oz of lotion
• 2 oz of face wash 
• 1 oz face lotion
• Bar deodorant 
• Wipe deodorant – great for weekend trips/day trips
• Sun Bum sunscreen in a roll-on stick
• Body sunscreen 
• 4 oz of Picaridin mosquito repellent lotion
• 3 Chapsticks
• Thermometer 

Medications & Supplements

• Rehydration salts (or BCAAs)
• Chloride towelettes
• Anti-diarrheal pills
• Cough drops
• 5 Organifi Green Juice Go Packs for a nutrient boost when I need it
• 3-4 scoops of Vegan protein powder – leftover from my cabinet and great for traveling
• 3 instant oatmeal packs for traveling to my first destination
• Probiotics 
• Contacts 
• Travel-sized hairbrush with a mirror on the back
• Nail clipper + file
• 2 fingernail polishes – a small way to feel really put together after your nails go to sh*$% while traveling
• 1 small makeup bag with foundation, a contour palette, blush, a few eyeshadows and mascara
• 2 oz of essential oils – doubles as deodorant, perfume, and good vibes
• Optional: Travel hairdryer – a nice to have in humid climates

Other Backpacking Essentials for Colombia & Beyond

Sure, some of these things are uber-optional in the hierarchy of what to pack for a trip. But sometimes, during your South American travels, the wifi in your hostel is spotty at best and you just want to crack open a good book from back home.

Other things on this part of the pack list are a must for hostels and exploring the far corners of the world. Because we all like getting off the beaten path, right?

• 1 5L Sea to Summit Big River Dry Sack – a lifesaver for waterfall hikes, river excursions and potential rainy days
• 1 Steripen Classic with Pre-Filter – for those times when you aren’t sure if you can drink the water
• 1 M Sea to Summit DryLite travel towel
• 1 Wordlock padlock – for locking things up in hostel lockers
• 2 Eagle Creek TSA luggage locks for my backpacks
• 1 Eye mask – great for overnight buses, trains and blocking out your bunkmate’s cell phone light in a hostel
• Ziplock bags
• 1 is a Rite in the Rain Waterproof Notebook
• 1 is a Rite in the Rain waterproof pen

Trekking & Camping Gear

• 1 M Sea to Summit Pocket Towel
• 1 Black Diamond headlamp – also nice to use the red light option so you don’t blind your fellow travelers when looking for your bunk in hostels
• 3L Platypus water reservoir  
• Optional: 1 Sawyer squeeze water filter – since I already have a Steripen, this isn’t necessary, but since I know I’ll be around clear mountain streams, I brought it anyway

Work Gear: What to Pack for Remote Jobs 

Consider this my remote office – all squeezed into one section of my backpack. If you are wondering what to pack for your own remote work success, let this be your starter kit. For others who are just curious what I all bring with me in order to be productive while traveling South America, consider this your official peek into my backpack.

• 1 MacBook Pro
• 1 wireless mouse
• 1 pair of Skullcandy Hesh 2 wireless headphones  
• 2 pairs of earbuds (one connects to my phone, one to my computer)
• 1 extra phone
• 1 Mophie portable battery + cord
• 1 MyPassport external hard drive (computer back-up)
• 1 pair of Felix Grey blue-light canceling computer glasses
• Optional: Extra business cards

Camera Gear

For my South America trip, these two categories are separate, as taking photos is more a passion than a profession. Who knows, maybe that will change in the next year!

• 28-70mm lens
• 2 camera batteries
• 1 battery charger
• 1 ProMaster remote shutter  
• 2 SD cards (one is 64gb, one is 32gb)
• 1 Tripod attachment for my camera
• 1 GoPro tripod attachment
• 1 iPhone tripod attachment 
• 1 LaCie external hard drive (photo storage)
• 1 DJI Spark drone
• Waterproof casing
• Back door floaty
• Underwater filters
• Fog filters
• 1 Floaty pole selfie stick
• 1 Gorilla small tripod

So there it is. Everything I packed for backpacking South America. This one was a doozy – and it took 8 years of traveling and 28 countries to refine.

But believe it or not, all of this fits into 2 carry-ons. 

That’s why I included the video for you guys to see. It’s a real leveling-up of your Tetris skills, but it’s totally possible with the help of packing cubes and a little patience.

Finally, I had someone ask me how much space I leave in my backpacks for souvenirs and the truth is…..not a lot.

Actually, more like none.

While there are a few things I know that I want to get while traveling and left some room for (a purse or day bag is one), the reality of having only carry-ons means following a strict “one in, one out” rule. That means I’ll have to get rid of or donate things as I wear them out and move to a place where I won’t need them. My other option is to ship things home (which may happen with my clunky hiking boots once I’ve done the thing at the top of my South America bucket list: hiking in Patagonia). 

For most people, you won’t be bringing work gear or as much camera gear as I have, so you’ll naturally have room for some souvenirs in your bags.

If you are sure you’re going to be doing some shopping, though, I recommend trying to pack all your necessities in only one carry-on. Then, you can put a backpack/daypack in the bottom of your luggage or bag. When you are ready to go home, you can pack everything you brought back into the carry-on and use the small travel backpack to carry your souvenirs home.

And, finally, if you have any other questions about what to pack for a trip, feel free to drop ‘em here or email me directly. I’m always happy to help. 

If you enjoyed this post, don't forget to share it!

Related Post

Otavalo Market in Ecuador: How to Visit South America’s Largest Market

The Perfect Day Trip from Quito: Hiking and Hot Springs in Papallacta, Ecuador

The Difference Between a Water Filter and a Water Purifier

3 Unknown Parks to Mountain Bike in Ecuador: Cayambe Coca, Papallacta, Antisana

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

I want to get updates on adventure travel!

• Work with Me

20 Useful Tips for Travel in South America

What you can expect from this article...

• 1 My South America Travel Tips to Help You Have an Amazing Trip!
• 2.1 South America Travel Tip #1
• 2.2 South America Travel Tip #2
• 2.3 South America Travel Tip #3
• 2.4 South America Travel Tip #4
• 2.5 South America Travel Tip #5
• 2.6 South America Travel Tip #6
• 2.7 South America Travel Tip #7
• 2.8 South America Travel Tip #8
• 2.9 South America Travel Tip #9
• 2.10 South America Travel Tip #10
• 2.11 South America Travel Tip #11
• 2.12 South America Travel Tip #12
• 2.13 South America Travel Tip #13
• 2.14 South America Travel Tip #14
• 2.15 South America Travel Tip #15
• 2.16 South America Travel Tip #16
• 2.17 South America Travel Tip #17
• 2.18 South America Travel Tip #18
• 2.19 South America Travel Tip #19
• 2.20 South America Travel Tip #20
• 2.21 More Useful Resources and Links for Planning for Backpacking in South America 
• 2.22 Further Reading About Backpacking in South America

My South America Travel Tips to Help You Have an Amazing Trip!

No matter how experienced you are at travelling, there will always be surprises, things you wish you knew before you left, perhaps when you were budgeting or packing.

My experience backpacking in South A merica has been no different. Reading other travel blogs with South America travel tips helped without a doubt and I had a fairly good grasp of what to expect but I have still learnt so much and I’d love to share that knowledge and South America travel tips with you so you can be as prepared as possible before you travel to South America.

So here are 20 South America travel tips that are super helpful to know before you set off on your backpacking South America adventure!

No time to read this now? No worries, pin it for later…

** Pssst, this article may contain affiliate links. If you have no idea what this means, click here and everything will be explained!**

South America Travel Tips to Make Backpacking South America a Breeze…

South america travel tip #1.

The temperature is incredibly variable in South America, especially in the highlands! One moment you may feel sweltering sitting in the direct sun, a few hours later you will be hunting for your thermals. Please do not underestimate how cold it can get and pack plenty layers.

South America Travel Tip #2

Not all hotels have heating even though it can reach sub-zero temperatures in the highlands.  Again I recommend layers when you are travelling in South America – I have been known to sleep with my hat and gloves on!

South America Travel Tip #3

Similarly, weather conditions can change VERY quickly! Always carry a raincoat even if there is a beautiful clear blue sky – don’t get caught out!

South America Travel Tip #4

Hot showers are a luxury in South America – take advantage every time you have an opportunity as you never know where the next one will be! Keep a supply of baby wipes, good deodorant and dry shampoo just in case!

South America Travel Tip #5

South America is more expensive than you’d imagine. Save hard so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about money.

Whilst cheaper than western countries – it’s a lot more expensive than places in S E Asia! For example, a main meal is about £8-10 in most restaurants in Peru though you can eat cheaper if you look about.

Beer is the cheapest alcoholic drink costing approximately £2. Most expensive so far is Chile – you can easily spend $25 dollars on a meal out. A bottle of wine in a restaurant is between 25-40 dollars!

South America Travel Tip #6

There is a BIG tipping culture in some countries in South America so try to factor this into your budget. You will be asked for money for photographs and need to tip bus drivers etc. This can really add up so try to factor it into your budget.

For the Lares trek and Inca trail, I believe the average tip is around 30-40 soles a day which works out as about £10 per day so £40 for the Inca trail.

South America Travel Tip #7

Not much English is spoken so the better your grasp on Spanish the better your experience backpacking in South America will be.

I personally find the Duolingo app a very useful tool for learning Spanish and I practice everywhere I go, even if I’m spoken to in English, I will try to answer in Spanish.

Remember though in Patagonia the language is Welsh, Brazil it’s Portuguese and there are also lots of local languages and dialects you will come across at times.

If you don’t know any Spanish at all, I’d recommend joining an organised tour e.g Gadventures  or Dragoman to make life a lot easier. Or alternatively, take some Spanish lessons when you first arrive!

South America Travel Tip #8

Altitude is a real b*tch! Even the super fit will suffer in the highlands – in fact, fitness has very little to do with how badly you suffer.  

Even the competitive athletes I have spent some time with in Peru noticed some shortness of breath and fatigue climbing hills and stairs.

No one is immune so prepare for it, ascend slowly, consider using altitude medication such as Diamox which is readily available at travel clinics, before you go.

South America Travel Tip #9

For everyone altitude sickness is different and is intermittent. I got sudden moments of shortness of breath even at rest and periodically get bad pins and needles in my feet. Others had dizziness, nausea or headaches.

I was expecting it to be a more consistent thing which gradually improves over time so the intermittent nature of my symptoms felt odd and unexpected.

Also, even a few hundred metres can make a huge difference so be prepared with headache tablets etc when you go out!

Read more   The Real Girls Guide to Training for Altitude .

South America Travel Tip #10

If you do suffer badly with altitude sickness, either descend a little or consider taking local remedies to help. Chewing cocoa leaves is popular in Peru. Whilst associated with illegal cocaine, cocoa leaves are actually not illegal and are widely used.

I personally do not like their taste (a bit like green tea) so I avoid the leaves and the teas but instead, have the toffees (which actually taste like coconut) and sometimes the peppermint flavoured cocoa gum.

Read More   How to Avoid Altitude Sickness .

South America Travel Tip #11

Even when it is overcast and cold, the sun is super powerful! Especially at higher altitudes and near to the equator. Wear factor 50 suncream. There are a lot of tomato faces walking around in Peru (mine included on one occasion after an hours stroll at 8 AM!)

Wearing lots of high factor sunscreen is my top travel tip for south America!

South America Travel Tip #12

It would be hard to be a vegan or vegetarian in South America as in restaurants they eat LOT of meat. Meat (or fish) and carbs! Most meals will come with potatoes AND rice!

I met one traveller who was vegetarian at home but had given himself a free pass to eat meat whilst away as it was just too hard to stick to it here.

That’s not to say you have to compromise your principles and eat meat but I’d recommend if you are vegetarian, that you do your research on Trip Advisor  to find restaurants that are more suitable and be prepared!

South America Travel Tip #13

I really recommend doing a homestay if you get a chance! I did a homestay in a little village on the edge of Lake Titicaca.

It felt a little strange at first trying to communicate where my Spanish was poor and the families English almost non-existent but after a while, it was easier to communicate than you’d imagine – with lots of miming, showing photos on our phones   of our families etc. It’ll give you the best insight into the lifestyles and cultures in the villages.

Read More Why you need to visit Lake Titicaca .

South America Travel Tip #14

 If you’re taking altitude medication, it acts as a diuretic making you pee more than normal. Even if you’re not on medication, the sun and the altitude will make you feel thirsty and you’ll drink a lot more than usual!

Be prepared for long journeys and get used to peeing behind bushes as service stations are few and far between!

South America Travel Tip #15

Speaking of toilets, toilets here are much better than other places I’ve travelled for example South East Asia where there is just a hole in the ground!

But do remember to put your toilet roll in the bin not in the toilet as the plumbing is not great. You will, however, forget on occasion, (especially when you first arrive) and then panic that you will block the toilet and how embarrassing would that be?! This is normal but do TRY to remember!

South America Travel Tip #16

Most hotels and hostels can arrange to do your laundry but I suggest always double checking the price first! Someone I know got stung for $200 for a few kg’s clothes in a Hilton hotel in Ecuador! In most places, it shouldn’t cost you more than $5.

South America Travel Tip #17

Uber is available in lots of places in South America and is often cheaper than regular taxis where you may be charged the ‘gringo price!’

Top Travel Tip Get a discount off your first trip when you sign up to Uber here and use this code: 6nc08

South America Travel Tip #18

Tuk-tuks are the cheapest way to get about – for a short journey < 5 minutes it may only cost you about 25 pence! You can also get tricycles – seats with a cyclist on the back but these are a bit more pricey and they cycle like lunatics cutting up traffic! Great fun though…

South America Travel Tip #19

It pays to be organised and sort out transfers to and from the airport as airport taxis cost a fortune! I paid $25 in Quito! But a return transfer was $10.

In Lima, you can catch the Peru express which is about £11 for an open return which lasts 6 months. They personally take you to the bus and point out your hotel on a map. I then got a taxi for a few dollars from the stop off nearest to my hotel.

South America Travel Tip #20

The travel police are really friendly. I’d heard so many bad things about the police in Ecuador (about corruption and not taking tourists seriously.)

But I had a pleasant chat with one police officer and when he couldn’t answer my questions about a demonstration that was going on, he kindly offered to walk me to the nearest tourist information point.

Others I spoke to had similar experiences and I definitely felt safe and looked after! So definitely don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with them!

More Useful Resources and Links for Planning for Backpacking in South America  

• G Adventure Tours in South America (my personal favourite tour company.)
• Intrepid Tours in South America  
• Dragoman overland tour . (cheaper option for tours as long as you don’t mind camping.)
• Other South America Tours
• Bamba Experience – a hop on hop off trip. A cheaper option for the budget conscious.
• Skyscanner – a great tool for booking your flights to and from and within South America.
• Day Tours in South America  and other day tours
• Accommodation via Booking.com or Airbnb

Further Reading About Backpacking in South America

• South America Itinerary
• South America packing list
• G Adventures Peru review
• G Adventures Galapagos review
• Iguazu Falls Guide
• The Lares Trek, Peru.
• Staying at an Argentinian ranch
• Visiting The Galapagos on a budget
• Things to do in San Pedro De Atacama
• Day trips from Bonito, The Eco capital of Brazil

Do you have any tips you can share? Or questions you’d like answering? If so, please feel free to comment below! As always I really appreciate any social shares or if you can share these pins below! Thanks a million! 

Please Share This Share this content

• Opens in a new window

You Might Also Like

The changing of the guard ceremony in quito – what to expect, why you need to visit lake titicaca, peru., things to do in san pedro de atacama & moon valley, this post has one comment.

Really nice tips !! Thanks For Sharing i also providing same services check it out here Travel Zoom Education

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Our 3 months in South America Itinerary

Our first big trip together, besides a couple of weekends away, was to South America. We planned our 3 month South America travel route together, something I’d been wanting to do for years but was saving until after graduation.

If you’re hoping to spend some time backpacking South America, I’ve put together our South America itinerary for 3 months below.

It was such a fun backpacking South America route and I can remember it so vividly; a sign of a great trip I think!

We travelled South America as a couple – our first backpacking trip – and now we’re married so I think things worked out pretty well, wouldn’t you agree?

We visited Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay (well, we got the stamp!), Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands . We had an amazing time and have since then taken other big trips together including a 3-month cross-USA road trip route in our self-converted campervan, and have moved to Canada.

Our South America travels are perfect for first-time backpackers to South America hoping to see the main bucket list South America sites but also do some unique activities too.

Whilst I wouldn’t change much of our South American itinerary, I’d look to add Colombia to the end of our trip. Before we went to South America I’d not heard much about this country (& what I had heard wasn’t exactly positive).

However, once we landed in Peru many of the backpackers we met told us how much fun they’d had there. Just an excuse for us to go back, hey?

Table of Contents

Our South America Travel Route – A 3-month South American Itinerary

When you start planning your South America trip and looking up how long it takes to get between places, you’ll quickly notice just how MASSIVE South America is. After all, it is a continent and each of the countries within that continent is pretty big!

Deciding on where to go, which country to start in, and how to get from place to place can be a tricky task. You’re probably going to want to do everything but in most cases, time and money (let’s be real) won’t allow for absolutely everything.

That’s the situation we were in. Though we’d graduated and were doing some part-time jobs to save up for our trip, our overall budget was pretty modest. It was also the first time either of us had done such a long trip. My longest before then was a month spent visiting Australia’s East Coast.

This South America travel blog post will help you decide where to go and how to get there, what to do and give you an idea of how much money you’ll need. If you’ve still got questions, feel free to leave them in the comments at the end and I’ll get back to you!

Have you got travel insurance? I’ve been using SafetyWing for a while and it’s incredibly easy, affordable and overall hassle-free! Make sure you check them out before your trip (or after, you can subscribe even if the trip has already started!). They offer subscription-based travel insurance which is great for digital nomads. It allows you to claim medical expenses, and you can add travel coverage to cover your for lost or stolen belongings or additional expenses due to delayed travel.

3 month South America itinerary

This South America backpacking route starts in Lima, Peru. Peru was our favourite country in our whole South America trip. The food was great, the people were friendly, the country has everything from beaches to mountains, rainforest to deserts AND it was one of the cheaper countries too.

We’ll then head from Peru down into Bolivia, across to Brazil, into Argentina and down to Uruguay then back into Argentina, across to Peru and north to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

I’ve linked to other South America travel guides where relevant so you can find more information about some of the most popular destinations to visit in South America.

A South America map of our travel route and the places we visited. Click the image to view the interactive map which you can save to your phone!

Here are the places we visited in Peru and some links to more detailed posts about them. Make sure to add these activities to your Peru bucket list for your South America travel route!

Lima is the capital of Peru and sits on the coast. It’s full of beautiful buildings and has plenty of museums to explore too so that you can get to know more about the fascinating ancient history of Peru.

The best area to stay in Lima is Miraflores which is the more touristy area, but also the safest and one with the most restaurants and things to do.

Some of the best things to do in Lima, Peru are:

• Swim with Sea Lions in the Pacific Ocean
• Take a Peruvian food tour
• Experience the Lima Magic Lights Circuit & the Catacombs

A few hours down the coast from Lima is Paracas. Paracas is often called ‘the poor man’s Galapagos’ as it’s a great place to do some nature watching.

It’s home to blue-footed boobies (a type of bird) and many more animals that are best viewed by taking a boat ride out to the islands.

The boat rides out to the islands are the best things to do in Paracas by far. If you’re not planning on visiting the Galapagos I’d recommend taking a boat tour.

Boot a boat tour in Paracas.

Not a city or really even much of a town, but a VERY fun place to spend a day or two. Huacachina is super popular with backpackers in South America due to the sand dunes which surround the little oasis that is Huacachina.

Here you can go sandboarding , or take a dune buggy ride both of which I recommend!

Book a sunset sandboarding and dune buggy tour

You may have heard of the Nazca lines before, if you’re taking PeruHop you’ll stop off here and have the chance to climb a tower to view these mysterious lines from above.

However, the only true way to see them is by taking a flight above them which is pretty expensive for backpackers. Having said that it’s definitely the only way to really see them, the tower doesn’t offer you much in the way of views of the Nazca Lines.

Book a Nazca Lines flight

Honestly, I’d save your money for something else and wouldn’t make a special trip to stop here unless you were nearby.

Arequipa is a city with beautiful architecture and a place to stop off at if you wish to visit the Colca Canyon.

Colca Canyon

One of the world’s deepest canyons, the Colca Canyon is a well-known trekking destination. It’s a habitat for the giant Andean condor which is the largest flying bird in the world!

Book a Colca Canyon trip

Cusco is one of the most popular stops for travellers to South America as it’s the gateway to Machu Picchu. This town is at 3,339m above sea level so it’s a good idea to spend the best part of a week here to acclimatise to the altitude before heading off to Machu Picchu.

If you didn’t book a trekking South America tour in advance you may be able to find a last-minute opening by walking around the tourist companies.

Otherwise, you can take trips to the Lost City, or head up to Sacsayhuaman (pronounced “sexy woman”) another Inca city within walkable distance from Cusco centre.

Another cool thing to do in Cusco is a day trip to Rainbow Mountain . This wasn’t an option when we visited back in 2014, but it’s now one of the best things to do in Cusco.

Book a trip to Rainbow Mountain here.

The Humantay Lake trip is also really special. You’ll head out to a beautiful alpine lake similar to those found in Canada in terms of colour!

Visit Humantay Lake on this guided tour.

Machu Picchu & Aguas Calientes

Whether you hike or get the bus or train, Machu Picchu is an absolute MUST-see in Peru. This famous Lost City of the Incas is absolutely stunning.

It’s one of those places that lives up to your expectations, even when your expectations are ridiculously high. We took the Salkantay trek to get there. 

However, you can also take day trips to Machu Picchu from Cusco with return transport if you don’t want, or don’t have the time, to hike.

Read more about how to get to Machu Picchu.

Lake Titicaca & Puno

From Cusco, we headed to Lake Titicaca and the town of Puno. There’s not a whole lot to see in Puno, it’s basically where people stay the night before getting an early bus to Bolivia or north into Peru.

Lake Titicaca , however, is worth seeing. This high-altitude lake is home to a community that makes their houses and the islands they live on out of reeds.

Find out more about Lake Titicaca.

Once we flew from Buenos Aires back to Lima, we headed north up the coast to Mancora. This beach town was entirely unexpected by us during our backpacking South America trip.

I never realised Peru has such beautiful beaches! Pocitas Beach just outside the town was our favourite.

While this town has grown hugely in popularity, we loved spending a relaxing week at the beach, drinking Mancora milkshakes and relaxing.

Iquitos & the Amazon Rainforest

From Mancora, we took the long route to Iquitos in the Amazon rainforest (and went piranha fishing in the Amazon !). Most visitors to Iquitos fly there from Lima, but we floated down the Amazon river on a cargo ship and this is perhaps one of the most memorable experiences of our entire trip.

The boat to Iquitos is one adventure I think about often (even though it’s been almost 10 years since then!)

Sure, it took a long time but it was such a cool thing to do.

Bolivia was our least favourite country during our backpack in South America. Probably because we both got very ill. But, it was by far the cheapest (a 3-course meal for £3!) and we still had some very cool experiences here.

Many people love exploring the wild landscapes of Bolivia and the colourful cities.

If you’re travelling from Peru, Copacabana is the first town you’ll get to as it’s right across the border. There’s not a whole lot to do here other than wait for the next bus out.

La Paz is one of the highest-altitude capital cities in the world and it’s a bustling city. There are tonnes of street markets (including the Witches’ Market) which are fun to explore.

It’s home to super cheap lunch menus (look for “menu del dia”) and nowadays there’s a cable car that will take you to the top of the mountain walls that surround the city.

You can also get tours from La Paz to cycle down Death Road . Less scary these days than it used to be, but still an exhilarating experience you’ll cycle down this notoriously dangerous road on (pretty old) mountain bikes.

There’s now a cable car in La Paz and this tour of the city includes a cable car trip which is such a unique way to view this incredible city.

Salar de Uyuni

The largest salt flat in the world, and one of the top places to visit for any Bolivia backpacker, the Salar de Uyuni is an amazing place.

The best way to visit is to book a tour. You can book one that drops you off in Northern Chile if that’s your next stop, or you can book a circular route.

Check out this guide to the best salt flats tours including how to see the salt flats at sunset!

From Bolivia, we worked our way across land via Santa Cruz in Bolivia to Corumba in Brazil to Campo Grande and the Pantals (a wetland home to jaguars and many, many species of wildlife) and then to the Brazilian coast and inwards again to Iguassu Falls.

The Pantanals

The Pantanals were an unexpected surprise. We hadn’t planned to go here but had a great few days chilling out and taking trips out to see wildlife.

Iguassu Falls

Amazing waterfalls and the meeting point of three countries (Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay).

Though we enjoyed visiting from the Brazilian side the most, it’s worth visiting from both the Brazilian and Argentinan sides to get the full experience.

On the Brazilian side, you can do a super fun (and wet) boat tour to get closer to the falls.

Book your ticket to Iguassu Falls with a boat ride here.

Also, if you’re looking to get another stamp in your passport, you can cross the bridge into Paraguay from the Brazilian side (just don’t do it after dark as it can be quite dangerous!).

We loved visiting Ilhabela. It was our first ever Airbnb experience and our hosts took us with them to their friends to watch Brazil play in the World Cup, to a local school fundraiser and for ice cream. It was such a nice way to get to know the island.

Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande is a small island (don’t let the name fool you), that’s home to beautiful beaches and forest. Take walks, swim and hang out in a hammock. There are no cars on the island here making it even more chilled out!

This beautiful town is extremely photogenic and has plenty of beaches and islands to explore.

You can also book a boat from here to Ilha Grande in advance of your trip.

A huge Brazilian city, Sao Paulo is full of skyscrapers and museums. There are also cool places like Batman Alley to explore too.

Take a tour with a local to see the main sights.

Rio de Janeiro

You’ve definitely heard of Rio before and you can’t go backpacking to South America without visiting Rio! Honestly, it’s a must on anyone’s 3 month South America itinerary route!

This party city has plenty to see and do including Christ the Redeemer ; the giant statue of Christ that looks over the city.

This 6-stop highlight tour of Rio is a great way to experience the city.

Though it was cold and very wet during our visit, I enjoyed exploring Uruguay a little. It was a country I’d never really heard much about but thoroughly enjoyed. To get to Argentina we took the ferry from Montevideo to Buenos Aires.

The capital of Uruguay, Montevideo , is home to over a 1/3 of the country’s population. This coastal city is home to the 10-mile Rambla, a walkway between the beach and the city, and some great food markets too.

Be sure to take a tour of Punte del Este while in Montevideo which is full of beauty and luxurious housing.

If you’re travelling around South America and looking for something different, check out Montevideo. It was a pleasant stop on our South America itinerary 3 months plan.

Tacuarembó – Cowboy camp

Another of our more unique backpacking experiences in South America was spending time on a cowboy ranch . We rode horses, saw armadillos and skunks and had a great time despite the pouring rain!

Our first steps in Argentina were at Iguassu Falls where we viewed the falls from the Argentinan side . This was one of the big things we wanted to tick off during our 3 month itinerary in South America.

We then skirted down the eastern side of the country all the way to Uruguay before crossing back into Argentina from Uruguay and spending a few days in Buenos Aires.

If you have more time, consider visiting Mendoza and Argentina wine country.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a beautiful city. Though it’s probably the most expensive one on this South American backpacker route, it’s still worth visiting.

It’s a great city to add to your South America trip itinerary.

Some of the best things to do in Buenos Aires include:

• Enjoying dinner with a tango show
• Taking a guided tour of the city

From Argentina, our South America trip planner saw us fly back to Lima, go north to Iquitos then fly to Quito.

We didn’t spend a huge amount of time in Ecuador; just a couple of days in Quito and then off to the Galapagos Islands where we stayed for a week.

I’ve listed a couple of other Ecuador destinations that are popular with backpackers and worth visiting if you have space in your South America 3 month itinerary.

The capital city of Ecuador, near Quito, is where you can find the equator at Mitad del Mundo , explore historic buildings and take the teleferico (cable car) up to the high point of the city.

Cotopaxi National Park, Ecuador

This beautiful national park is home to the 5,900 m high volcano, Cotopaxi. If you’re a keen hiker taking a tour of the volcano is well worth adding to your 3 months South America itinerary.

Baños

A popular backpacking town, Baños is famous for its beautiful natural surroundings, the swing on the edge of a cliff and for being a base for outdoor adventures!

Popular Ecuadorian riverside town that is full of beautiful colonial buildings and hipster cafes.

Galapagos Islands

When travelling south America, a visit to the Galapagos Islands is definitely bucket list material.

The Galapagos Islands aren’t cheap but you can still visit the Galapagos Islands on a budget. You don’t need to book a cruise (in fact I’d advise against it), to see the wildlife.

It’s truly everywhere, and day excursions will get you out into the sea for diving and snorkelling opportunities.

Ideas for a longer backpacking route in South America

There are obviously ways to shorten the route by just visiting one of two countries from the itinerary above while travelling in South America.

You could also lengthen the route by visiting countries like Columbia and Chile, or spending more time in Argentina and Ecuador.

When we travelled to South America, Columbia was only just becoming a popular destination for backpackers and I’d love to go back one year and see what it’s like.

I’d also  love to go back and explore the numerous hiking routes of Patagonia on another trip travelling South America.

How much does it cost to backpack South America?

Our south america travel budget: £3500/£4000.

Our budget for this South America travel itinerary was roughly £3500 for 3 months travel in South America including flights to and from the UK and a couple of internal flights (Brazil to Peru, Peru to Galapagos Islands). It doesn’t include the cost of travel insurance, gear or vaccinations.

This is based on staying in cheap private rooms in hostels and hotels. Hotels in South America are often cheaper than hostels if you’re splitting the cost between two since you split the price of one room rather than paying for two beds. Ie. this was the cost to travel South America on a budget.

We also opted for overnight bus journeys since that saved on the cost of hotels and we’d have to pay for the transport anyway.

It also included the cost of activities such as our Salkantay trek, day excursions during our stay on the island of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos Islands and others.

However, we’re not big drinkers, and are more than happy to save on food; either cooking for ourselves or eating cheaply when eating out.

While we were travelling we stuck to a budget of about £35 a day ($45US). Some days we spent more, some days less, but overall it was around this amount a day.

How long to spend backpacking South America?

This itinerary for South America is based on spending three months on a South America travel route. We moved pretty quickly and fit a lot into a short amount of time but it was totally worth it.

If you have longer to spend (/more money to spend!) then anywhere between 4-6 months will allow you to see places more slowly and visit additional countries such as Colombia and Chile.

To plan or not to plan?

If this is your first big trip you maybe someone (like me) who’s tempted to plan EVERYTHING.

I’d advise you not to.

Hear me out. Some places you’re going to love and want to stay longer exploring. Other places you’re going to just not gel with and want to get away from as quickly as possible. If you’ve booked 1 night in the former and 4 nights in the latter you’re not going to be happy OR you’re going to lose money on non-refundable deposits.

Having said all that some things you’re just going to have to book, or  should  book to have a much more relaxing backpacking trip in South America.

Things we booked before travelling to South America

We booked our flights to Lima, Peru from the UK and then left from Quito in Ecuador (via Lima) back to the UK.

We also booked our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu . The Inca Trail was already booked up (we booked at least 3 months in advance), but I’m actually so glad we took this trek instead!

We also won tickets in the lottery for World Cup football games in Brazil which meant we had to be in Brazil by a certain point.

And, since we knew we wanted to visit the Galapagos, we booked a flight from Argentina to Peru (to get us back on the west coast after Brazil) and to the Galapagos Islands, and back from Quito.

Our itinerary was a bit back and forth, but it worked for us.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

The best time to go to South America

If you live in the northern hemisphere, then remember that South America’s seasons are the opposite to what you’re used to. The northern countries are best visited May-September and the southern ones from October-April.

Our trip was from May to August.

Do I need travel vaccinations for South America travel destinations?

It’s likely you will need some South America travel vaccines. The requirements change from time to time so it’s worth checking at least 3 months before you go.

The  Fit For Travel website by the NHS  is full of useful advice.

When we travelled we made sure to get our Yellow Fever vaccination since countries such as Brazil said they’d check your certificate at the border.

We also got Malaria tablets to take with us since we were spending time in the Amazon Rainforest.

Additionally, if you’re worried about altitude, you may want to take Diamox, or a similar drug to help mitigate the effects you can get from altitude sickness. While I took this in the Himalayas, we didn’t take it during our trip to South America.

What visas do you need to backpack South America?

If you’re from the EU, chances are you won’t need to get any visa in advance. Most countries in South America will give you a 90-day visa upon entry.

Check each country’s government travel advice pages to see what the visa requirements are before you travel to South America.

How to get around South America?

With such a big continent, how will you know how to get around? Here are the methods we used!

Buses in South America

The best way to travel South America is to get buses from place to place.

You’ll likely be spending A LOT of time on overnight buses as you backpack South America. It’s by far the cheapest and easiest way to travel across the continent and you’ll be pleased to know that the buses in South America are actually pretty luxurious. I think the longest stint we did on back-to-back buses was 26 hours!

Depending on what class seat you book, you can enjoy fully-reclining seats, meal service (like aeroplane meals) and onboard entertainment! However, I  would  recommend packing a blanket or plenty of warm clothes as some of the buses, especially in Bolivia and other high altitude areas, do get VERY cold overnight.

In Peru, we used  PeruHop  which had just started as a company a few months before we used it. It’s a bit like the Oz Experience for road tripping on Australia’s east coast.

While it is a hop on hop off bus, typically you’re travelling with the same group of people for a week or so since people move places at roughly the same speed. If this is your first extended travelling experience, I’d recommend doing Peru Hop as they’ll organise hotels for you too but it’s not a bus tour in the sense that they’re then guiding you around each of the cities and stops you make. You also have the option to book your own accommodation.

When we travelled in South America back in 2014, Peru Hop only went from Lima to Cusco but I believe they’ve expanded their service to include many other stops (& other countries too).

Buses throughout South America tend to go from one big bus station in the town or city you’re in. This station will be pretty hectic with people shouting out the name of the town their bus company is going to next.

There’ll be several different bus companies going to the same place and their prices will vary. Sometimes not by much, but sometimes by a lot. Some buses will also take longer.

At first, this experience may be a little stressful, but you’ll get the hang of it! Oh, and don’t forget to haggle, chances are you can get the price down much lower than they’ll tell you to begin with.

If you want to be more prepared, you can book buses in advance, and get an idea of the prices of the tickets, by using  Busbud

Flights in South America

While you can do some internal flights as we did, they’re more expensive and honestly travelling by bus between places is actually pretty fun. You’ll meet other travellers and get to see the scenery as you drive past it.

Getting around cities in South America

You’ll likely use these three forms of transport when getting around the larger cities in South America.

Collectivos

Collectivos are likely doing Uber Pool but without the Uber app. They’re typically a standard car that will drive faster, and make less stops than a bus.

They’ll only go when they’re full, so this may mean the driver won’t leave the station for a while until they’ve drummed up enough customers to fill the car. OR, they’ll drive slow through the city shouting out the destination hoping someone will hop in.

We only used these in areas where there were no buses going where we needed to go. This was mostly in northern Peru as we tried to navigate from  Mancora to Iquitos .

While some of the larger cities in South America likely have Uber now (it didn’t exist when we travelled there!), more often you’ll be using local taxi companies. Once the drivers realise you’re a foreigner they’ll likely up the price that a local would pay.

For this reason, it’s a good idea to agree on a price  before  you get in the taxi. Sometimes they’ll insist on using the metre but the metre will be set to a higher rate or perhaps you insist on using the metre but then they turn it off and tell you it’s not working and just make up a (usually very high) price you now need to pay.

Smaller city buses

Cities also have smaller minivan-style buses that work much like a bus system anywhere in the world. We used these city buses in Lima to get between museums and around the city. The ticket is usually a flat fee so you just need to remember where to get off.

FAQs on South America Travelling

How to travel south america.

Travelling in South America is very popular with backpackers. While it may seem daunting most backpackers visit the same cities and attractions so you’ll meet plenty of people along the way. I think it’s a great destination for backpackers looking for adventure! The information above will help you plan how to travel South America.

How long to travel South America?

Three months is a great amount of time to experience South America. In this time you can do many of the bucket list things as well as explore several countries.

How to travel around South America?

The easiest and cheapest way to travel around South America is by bus. If this is your first backpacking trip I’d recommend using a company like Peru Hop. Otherwise, you can find plenty of domestic and international long-haul bus companies in South America. They’re usually pretty comfortable with reclining seats and meals served onboard too.

How to plan a trip for South America

You’re starting well by reading this blog post of our 3-month itinerary for South America. Make a list of the places you want to travel to, look up the things you want to do and get an idea of costs. See what fits within your budget and then book those flights!

About backpacking in South America

Often referred to as one of the most diverse continents on Earth, South America is home to hundreds of beautiful natural sites and history.

This continent is where you’ll find the 2nd highest mountain range in the world, the largest rainforest and the world’s driest desert.

No matter how long you have to visit South America, you’re sure to come across something that truly takes your breath away. Each country is unique and offers a different history, culture and natural sights. You’re set to have a fantastic time!

Backpacking in South America is favoured since it’s a pretty cheap place to travel when compared to North America or travelling in Europe in particular. Whilst not as cheap as South East Asia, you’ll still be okay with a relatively modest budget to cover your food, accommodation, travel and activities.

Our 3 months in South America, including the return flights there and back to the UK, cost us around £3500/$3800US in 2014. This included a couple of internal flights that could be avoided and we didn’t stay in shared hostel dorms much either.

There’s more information about a 3 months in South America budget below.

Last Updated on November 8, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Hi! I will be heading to South America for 3/4 months next summer. Where did you start?! It looks like you fit a lot of places in!

We started in Lima then headed South, overland to Brazil, then to Iguassu, overland to Uruguay, ferry to Buenos Aires, flight back to Peru then North into the Amazon and over to the Galapagos.

We definitely fit a lot in, but there’s SO much to see. Our route was a bit weird to make sure we were in Brazil for the World Cup!

Would recommend visiting Columbia, we didn’t, but every one we met said it was a fantastic country. If you’ve got more questions you can always email me, I’d love to help anyway possible! x

Hi!! A friend and I are heading to South America for 5 months from July but we’ve got so many questions and are feeling a little out of place! Where did you start?? Your trip looks amazing! 🙂

Hey Jodi! Wow, 5 months? That’s going to be amazing! Do you have any idea of where you want to go?

I’d love to help you with any questions you may have! Just send me an email at [email protected] .

I started in Peru and went South to Bolivia, then overland to Brazil (rio, sao paulo and Ilhabela, Ilha grande), flew from Rio to Iguassu went by bus from Iguassu to Uruguay then boat from Uruguay to Argentina. From Argentina flew back to Peru and this time went North and into the Amazon. From the Amazon we flew to Ecuador and the Galapagos then back to England!

Look forward to hearing from you! x

Hey Hannah,

I have been thinking about visiting South America for a long time now – do you know how much you spent during your time in South America, so I can get an idea of a budget to work towards.

Roughly speaking it was probably £3,500 (excluding flights), maybe a bit less/bit more! But we did everything we wanted to including the Galapagos. We were there for 3 months, so I guess a budget would depend how long you want to go for too. If you’ve got any questions feel free to send me an email 🙂 [email protected] x

Hi I love this post so much! I graduate college in December so plan on treating myself to a trip around South America since I am a Spanish minor and it’s been a dream to see Machu Pichu and other places. When you say backpack do you mean you guys set up tent or just that you traveled around the countries? Did you at all have to rent a car to get to these places or were the buses enough to rely on? While I dont plan on going to Brazil and instead want to tack on Patagonia and possibly parts of southern Chile, I also do not have a set time line.

Hi Virginia, I just mean we travelled with a backpack rather than tent camped! Buses were definitely enough to get around. There are so many and they’ll go between all major cities. Long distance bus journeys in South America were actually quite nice. They generally have reclining seats (if you pay a bit more they’re fully reclining like a bed) and you can even get meal service on some of them – like being on a plane!

I too would love to go to Patagonia one day!

GREAT ITINERARY AND DETAILS!

Hi, love the post. Can I ask if your budget of 3500 was combined or was it each? Thanks

It was each

What to Wear in Colombia: Vacation Packing List

Packing Lists , South America Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

For this edition of Locals Approved Packing Lists two Colombia residents have assisted in providing a reliable account of a locals view to help us determine what to wear in Colombia.

What to Wear in Colombia

Edited by Chantelle Mallin

Jasmine, originally from Tampa Florida, has been on the road since 2007. After stints in New Zealand and Australia and traveling across Southeast Asia and Latin America, she fell in love with Medellin, Colombia.

She now calls the city home where she lives with her puppy Luna. You can catch up with her on Twitter and Facebook or check out her travel blog  Jasmine Wanders .

Our other Colombia correspondent is Andres Rodriguez, the co-editor of international street fashion blog  Iconia Magazine . He’s lived in Colombia for 37 years, and is not only capturing images of the latest fashions in his home country but also around the world including Paris, Milan, and New York.

The photographs featured on this article give you a sneak peak at what Iconia Magazine has to offer so check it out for more international street style.

Thank you for your helpful insight guys!

Colombia Clothing Style

The clothing style in Colombia mainly depends on the city, in the tropical places such as Cartagena the style is chic, elegant and more relaxed, think lots of white and light fabrics. Medellin is more sexy, think Latin, the women wear light dresses, tight jeans and bright colours – don’t be afraid to show a little skin here!

How to choose the best fabrics for travel ? Read this post!

Medellin is hot during the day and cool at night, however it’s not a tropical destination, dress light, but not as if you’re going to the beach. Medellin is considered the fashion capital of Colombia, people dress considering trends.

Bogota is a colder city, think New York in the springtime, it is more formal and sophisticated: scarfs, coats, heavy jackets and dark colours. Cartagena is a tropical city with very hot weather, dress accordingly with loose t-shirts, shorts, flowing dresses, maxi skirts and sandals.

Always check the weather forecast  for each city you plan to visit during your trip to Colombia. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Read these tips on how to avoid a boring all-black wardrobe when you travel!

There are no rules in general for dressing in Colombia, however to avoid sticking out it is recommended men wear trousers and closed-toed shoes, especially at night.

For the girls opt for skinny jeans, a pretty shirt, sandals (not flip-flops), flats and heels if you fancy dressing up your outfit. If you decide to wear shorts, pair it with a conservative top.

Check out our round-up of comfortable walking sandals that don’t sacrifice style !

Jasmine suggests that here is more conservative and formal that her home state of Florida, it is not common to see men in shorts or people wearing flip flops, the local’s value presenting themselves well.

Wearing shorts, sandals and a t-shirt to go shopping, out at night, at a restaurant or clubbing will get you pegged as a tourist, if you plan to go to chic places dress up to avoid feeling under dressed.

Find out how to turn any one of your dresses into versatile dresses !

When planning what to wear in Colombia, the top advice from Andres is to dress for the diverse weather conditions across the country , if your go to Cartagena and Medellin and then travel to Bogota, be prepared to pack 3 different kind of clothing for each city’s climate.

Read this tips on how to pack for different climates !

Sunglasses | Travel Guide | Sunscreen | Scarf

Travel Essentials

• Cartagena – As Cartagena has a tropical climate be sure to pack your favourite pair of sunglasses, a hat and plenty of sun cream to protect you from the suns glare, light coloured flowing maxi dresses and skirts are perfect for women, men should purchase a ‘guayabera’ for a local clothing store, it’s kind of like a safari/camp shirt, popular in South America. Don’t forget to pack a printed swimsuit/bikini and cute cover-up to hit up Cartagena’s beaut sandy beaches.
• Medellin – For this fashionable city pack your favourite printed dresses and colourful tops team these with a pair of on trend jeans and you’ll fit right in, oh and don’t be afraid to show a little skin.
• Bogota – Think slightly conservative and sophisticated clothing (if you want to fit in, maybe you don’t though!), essentials include sunglasses for during the day, a pair of jeans or dark pants, a printed scarf and a light coat and jacket, dress up not down!

Colombia is the country with diverse weather so try to bring clothing to cover all weather conditions!

Colombia Shopping

If you’ve forgotten an item or just fancy updating your holiday wardrobe Colombia has got it covered, there are lots of clothing stores in the major cities including international brands such as Zara, Diesel, Mango and Forever 21 and designer brands such as Carolina Herrera and Louis Vuitton.

Other cool clothing brands include ELA , Ragged , Stradivarius, STOP Jeans  and Arturo Calle  for the men, hit up one of the local malls to find possibilities for every budget or browse the outdoor markets for unique crafts and budget clothing, ask at your hotel for the nearest market.

Colombia is a country with a buzzing fashion scene check out some of their local designers such as –

• Franca Lovely Chus  – A shoe brand noted for its production of quirky, clunky-cool leather shoes created in bright colours and extravagant shapes, the shoes are entirely manufactured in Colombia.
• Maria Luisa Ortiz  – The Red Label is a lower-cost alternative to the Maria Luisa Ortiz couture line, the brand has a contemporary feel.
• Leal Daccarett  – Colombia’s most cutting-edge young apparel brands, think hippy-chic, featuring traditional craftsmanship and an edgy design.

Colombia is located very close to the equator – typical seasons aren’t present, however the weather changes as you travel through the country due to the range of altitudes and geographic conditions such as humid forests, tropical plains and deserts.

The weather is consistent throughout the year with slight variations due to the dry and wet seasons. You can experience totally different climates within a couple hours of travel.

The general rule is that the temperature will decrease by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit by every 1000 feet increase in altitude, also the higher up you are the more of difference you will notice between day and night temps.

Read these tips on what to wear on a rainy day !

Dry/Verano (Summer) Season

Dry season usually runs from June – August and December – February, average highs are around 20 ºC and it is commonly sunny, pack light and relaxed clothing, a pair of sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen. The dry season is the most pleasant time to pay a visit to the country, many festivals and fiestas take place during this season, and it is the perfect time to go hiking.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
• Summer Maxi Dresses
• Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
• The 10 Best Sandals for Travel this Summer

Wet/Invierno (Winter) Season

Wet season generally runs from March – May and September – November, the average temperature is again around 20 °C, fog, cloud and hailstorms can be common, pack light and comfortable clothing for during the day and a sweater and light jacket for chillier evenings. Oh and remember to pack waterproof shoes and an umbrella and rain jacket with hood.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
• How to Pack for Cold Weather
• How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
• The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

V   Neck  |  Blouse  |  T   Shirt  |  Sleeveless  |  Shirtdress  |  Dress  |  Jeans  |  Pants  |  Jacket  |  Poncho  |  Sweater  |  Shorts  |  Boots  |  Shoes  |  Scarf  |  Backpack

What to Wear in Colombia: Bogota

Bogota is the capital city of Colombia, the weather in Bogota is quite consistent all year round. The typical temperature hovers around 14ᵒC rarely rises above around 20ᵒC and falls below 5ᵒC, the city has quite a cool climate compared to other Colombian cities.

The driest months are commonly January, July, August and December, whilst the wettest run between April to May and September to November.

Be prepared, in Bogota you can experience all four seasons in one day. The best advice would be to layer, taking off or adding clothing depending on the weather!

Pack your favourite pair of jeans or dark coloured trousers, simple coloured jersey t-shirts and blouses, a thin knit sweater, it gets cool at night, and a cute printed tea dress paired with tights to add a sense of femininity, pair with a cute cotton scarf and a chic waterproof jacket.

Take a look at these stylish and Insta-friendly water-resistant jackets !

Don’t let the cooler weather fool you; due to the country’s closeness to the equator you still need to pack your favourite sunnies and sun cream to protect you from the sun’s rays.

Shoe wise; pack a comfortable pair of waterproof boots or hiking shoes to combat the impulsive weather, also include a printed pair of sneakers and cut out closed toe sandals for when the weather is mild, don’t forget to pack an umbrella to face the wet season.

Looking for comfortable and cute walking shoes for travel? Read this post!

Don’t let the cooler weather put you off; check out all the beautiful cosmopolitan city has to offer, combat the weather and try a traditional Bogota drink – to warm up taste a hot chocolate and cheese portion or cool down with a glass of agua de panela (unrefined whole can sugar) with lime juice.

Street Style in Bogota

Photo: Diana Trujillo Neme with IconiaMagazine.com

Sleeveless  |  Blouse  |  Tank  |  Cami  |  Dress  1  |  Dress  2  |  Pants  |  Short  |  Waistcoat  |  Jacket  |  T   Shirt  |  Skirt  |  Shoes  |  Sandals  |   Hat  |  Backpack

What to Wear in Colombia: Caribbean Coast

The weather on the Caribbean coast is hot and humid; the temperature ranges from 24 to 33 in places such as Cartagena, Baranquilla and Santa Marta. The wet season typically runs from September to October; however there is significantly less rain that in Bogota.

Benefit the glorious weather and pack accordingly. Include natural coloured tunics and short sleeved tee’s to pair with button down maxi skirts, a cute pair of cut off denim shorts and a pair of printed loose trousers. Include a pretty printed maxi and tea dress and embellished playsuit to complete your wardrobe.

Here’s a list of tunics that you can shop now and wear all season long !

Opt for a vintage style kimono jacket and crocheted shawl as cover up options and don’t forget your swimwear to take advantage of the beautiful coast! The coast can get pretty hot and humid in the day, so the best advice would be to dress light, oh and don’t forget your sunscreen!

Here are the twenty-three best one piece swimsuits  of the season!

Comfy shoes are a must as you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking and sightseeing, pack a cute pair of pastel coloured sandals for relaxing on the beach. Pack a pair or good walking/hiking boots if your itinerary includes trekking to the lost city, in the mountains or through the amazon, a strong insect repellent would be useful for the latter.

Check out our comfortable walking sandals that don’t sacrifice style !

The coast is the perfect place for ‘fun in the sun’ offering you the idyllic slice of summer any time of the year.  Colombia has a tasty selection of fruits – try the lemonade de coco a lemonade made with a Piña Colada coconut mix.

Blouse  |  Sleeveless  |  Tank  |  Top  |  Romper  |  Dress  |  Pant  |  Short  |  Jacket  |  Vest  |  Long   Sleeve  |  Shorts  |  Boots  |  Sandals  |  Hat  |  Backpack

What to Wear in Colombia: Amazonas

It’s the rainforest, so it rains A LOT! The rain is generally all year round , however January to May is the most extreme, and the region is also insanely humid, with temperatures throughout the year in the high 20s.

Light, casual clothing that can be layered would be the best choice for the amazon, because of the heavy rainfall and humidity clothes are hard to dry (jeans would be a nightmare), bring enough clothes to last you all your trip and stick to polyester and nylon fabrics that dry quickly, be warned though, these fabrics can get humid in warm weather,

Stick to light-coloured clothing that reflect heat and sunlight and help avoid insects, think cottons and silks that are light and breathable and will absorb sweat and release body heat.

Read this tips to stop overpacking !

Be prepared for the extreme weather and pack accordingly, opt for a variation of short and long sleeved t’s and tunics, a selection of neutral trousers and printed shorts, a cute sweater, a printed kimono to be worn if planning a nice outing for a meal or drinks, oh and don’t forget you swimsuit and water shoes for bathing.

A lightweight waterproof jacket is a necessity for this region, perfect for keeping you dry on a cool evening, yet one that can be stuffed away on a warm clear day.

Find out why we love these lightweight jackets for travel !

A pair of comfortable waterproof walking shoes is essential for the amazon; bring a pair that dry easily.

Blouse  |  Longsleeve   |  V   Neck  |  Tank  |  Dress  |  Swing   Dress  |  Jeans  |  Pants  |  Jacket  |  Poncho  |  Cardigan  |  Skirt  |  Boots  |  Flats  |  Hat  |  Backpack

What to Wear in Colombia: Coffee Region

The coffee region of Colombia is known for being pleasant, with temperatures varying between 17 and 25 degrees. Areas such as Medellín are considered to have the ‘perfect’ temperature.

Again, there are two main seasons rainy and dry. If you plan on visiting areas around Medellín, check the altitude, for instance Santa Fe de Antioquia is warmer and Santa Elena is cooler.

Style in Medellin is quite casual, becoming more stylish in areas such as Poblado and Tessoro, good advice would be to layer, adding and removing clothing according to the heat.

Pack your favourite pair of skinny jeans, printed trouser, a light panelled sweater and a variety of neutral tee’s, blouses and tunics, skirts and dresses aren’t so common, apart from in the younger generation.

Learn how to pack lightly stylishly !

At night, women are more inclined to dress up. Pack an embellished cami top and cropped trousers, during the rainy season it can get chilly at night, pack a flowing cardigan or printed kimono, the ladies of Medellín are well presented with groomed hair, nails and clothing.

You rarely see shorts, sandals and flip flops whilst out and about, opt for cut out boots, cute brogues and printed sneakers and shoe choices; Medellin is a good place to buy shoes as many are manufactured locally.

Read this 10 step guide on how to pack shoes for any trip !

Medellin feels like spring all year round , with pleasant weather and beautiful blooms, it is the perfect place for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking and walking, be sure to pack some high factor sunscreen, the area had a high level of UV penetration.

Street Style in Medellin

Photos: Andrés Felipe Ramírez with IconiaMagazine.com

Colombia Travel Tips

The best tip when planning what to wear in Colombia would be to pack different types of clothing to cater for the diverse climate conditions.

Check out the weather and temperature for the places you are visiting before travel, and pack accordingly, remember – don’t wear sandals and shorts in Bogota, even if you are a very casual traveller, not only will you feel cold, you will feel under-dressed for most occasions.

When visiting you may also want to consider the country’s holiday period, the high periods run from December to mid-January, Semana Santa (Holy Week: March or April) and from mid-June to mid-July, also take into account the three day weekends and regional celebrations such as Baranquilla de Carnaval .

These are the best periods to interact with traveling Colombians in chilled, holiday mode, however transport can become more crowded, hotels fill up quicker and the price of a holiday may rise.

Enjoy Your Colombia Vacation!

What are your tips on what to wear in Colombia? Share in the comments!

For more South America packing list, please read:

• 6 Packing Tips for Traveling to South America
• Packing List for Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador
• What to Pack for Trips to Brazil: Packing List and Fashion Tips

Suggested Travel Resources:

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

We hope you liked this post on what to wear in Colombia. Please share this post with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

18 comments.

Thanks this is all really helpful!

I am trying to understand how little girl clothing sizes in Columbia compare to sizes in the US. Do you have any insight on that? We’re hosting a little girl from Columbia and need to provide her some clothing!

Hi Brit, I apologize but we don’t know the answer to this. You might find some information by looking in Google for “Colombia vs USA kids clothing sizes. 🙂

Thanks for this informative post! I’m going to Cartagena, Cali, and La Macarena next month. Nice to know I can dress light and casual in these areas!

Hey y’all! It’s Colombia, not Columbia! It says Columbia Travel Tips at the bottom of the article. Just a pet peeve from many Colombians. Love the article though regardless!

Thanks for the heads up Sam! Will get to fixing it now! Thanks for reading!

Great site, really good writing:-)! I really enjoy your blog. I’m waiting for more. Best regards!

Thanks for reading!

Carnaval de Barranquilla not Barranquilla de Carnaval lol I have to disagree with the first comment though, people do not wear shorts in Bogota. On the other hand I do a lot more short wearing from locals on the coast.

Hi Paulette, thanks for helping to clear that up. Great feedback!

Hi. I have to agree with the shorts because I wear shorts in Bogotá. Yet, you do need to dress them up with the right top and shoes. Great article, one suggestion is make sure you verify city names and special events as it can flag your article as inaccurate; other than that-love it.

Awesome! Thanks Jenny 🙂

” it is not common to see men in shorts” Not true at all! People wear shorts in Bogota allll the time. I see it often! It is quite common. I mean, if you go to Santa Marta, you aren’t going to want to wear anything but shorts…and flip flops. Poor advice.

Thanks for your feedback Ctravel, this information was based on interviews with locals living in Colombia. It’s always good to know there are more options for men.

No true! Men or women do not wear shorts in Bogota, it can get cold and restaurants do not allow men in sandals or shorts, people dress up for dinner. Shorts is for the coastal areas Barranquilla, Cartagena and other warmer aras. I should know just got back from Bogota, women wear Jeans, leggings and boots.

What a small world I live in Tampa too! Flying into Bogota in a few weeks. This information came in very handy! Thank you so much for sharing!

Thanks so much for this detailed post! Really enjoyed it! A friend of mine and I are leaving for Medellin this Friday – we are from Florida as well (Fort Lauderdale)! We will be there for about 5 days and are really excited to see the city.

I’m glad I came across your blog and look forward to reading more! If you see this before we leave and have any tips for us, that’d be awesome! You can email me. 😀

Thanks Deborah! Hope you have an amazing trip 🙂

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Joe Bayfield
• December 20, 2021
• No Comments

The Ideal 2-Month South America Itinerary For Budget Backpackers

What’s the best budget backpacking route for 2 months in south america.

The variety of travel routes you can take through South America is endless.

The best route really depends on your goals and budget. 2 months in South America is a great amount of time. You can spend 20 days in three different countries or two weeks in each country and see 6 in total!

For 2 months in South America on a budget , I think the best travel route would be one that goes through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia as they are cheap compared to places like Chile and Brazil , close together, and the travel routes between them by bus and air are short and well established.

South America 2-Month Budget Itinerary – Ecuador, Peru & Bolivia

• Pros – the cheapest way to travel through South America, perfect for budget backpackers. This itinerary also has lots of flexibility to extend your stay in your favourite places as well
• Cons – you will be skipping some of the more popular sights such as the Galapagos islands, and taking some long overnight buses to stick to a budget

Here is a the complete 2-month South America itinerary for budget travellers:

Country 1 - Ecuador

• Day 1 – Quito
• Day 2-3 – Otavalo
• Day 4-5 – Mindo
• Day 6-7 – Quito
• Day 8-9 – Cotopaxi National Park
• Day 10-14 – Latacunga / Quilotoa Trek
• Day 15-17 – Baños

Day 18-21 – Montanita

• Day 22 – Travel day to Lima

Country 2 - Peru

• Day 23-24 – Lima
• Day 25-26 – Paracas
• Day 27-28 – Huacachina
• Day 29-33 – Arequipa / Colca Canyon
• Day 34-36 – Cusco
• Day 37-41 – Salkantay Trek/Machu Picchu
• Day 42 – Cusco
• Day 43 – Travel day to Copacabana

Country 3 - Bolivia

• Day 44-45 – Copacabana
• Day 46-48 – La Paz
• Day 49-52 – Rurrenabaque / Amazon Tour
• Day 53 – La Paz
• Day 54 – Travel day to Uyuni
• Day 55-57 – Uyuni Salt Flats Tour
• Day 58/59 – Uyuni /Return to La Paz /Home

Days 1-22 - Ecuador

Day 1 - quito.

For your first day in South America, best to take it easy and acclimatise to the higher altitude. You will only be here for the day but don’t worry though as you will be returning to Quito in a couple of days.

The easiest and cheapest thing to do is to explore the city on a free walking tour . The tour takes you to the main sights in the historical centre including Plaza Grande – the main square which includes the presidential palace, and La Ronda – the popular tourist street filled with galleries, craft shops, and restaurants.

For more great things to do in Quito including chocolate tasing, museums, and visiting the equator , head to the guide below:

• The 19 Best Things To Do In Quito As A Backpacker

Day 2-3 - Otavalo

Otavalo is a 2–3-hour journey north of Quito by bus. There are two reasons to come here: the huge indigenous market the town is famous for, and the crater lake hike at Laguna Cuicocha. 

On your first day in Otavalo, you can visit the market which is the oldest and largest Indian handicrafts market in all of South America . It spreads out from the main square for blocks in each direction and sells everything from blankets and ponchos to jewellery, instruments, leather goods, spices, and more. 

On your second day it’s time to try your first hike at altitude.

Laguna Cuicocha , which translates to Lake of Guinea Pigs, was given this name due to the shape of the two islands that can be seen in the middle of the lake. A circular trail goes around the lake, and you can hike around the entire thing for amazing views of the islands, lake, and Volcano Cotacachi off in the distance.  

Everything you need to know about Otavalo and getting to the Laguna can be found in the two posts below:

• The Best Things To Do In Otavalo As A Backpacker
• How To Visit Laguna Cuicocha From Otavalo

Day 4-5 - Mindo

The Mindo cloud forest is the perfect escape from the high altitudes of Quito and Otavalo. The lush forest ecosystem of Mindo has the perfect conditions to grow what is known as some of the best chocolate in the world.

Spend your first day here on a tour around a chocolate farm that will show you how the cacao plant is grown and harvested, ending in a tasting session!

On your second day in Mindo, you have a wealth of options from tubing down the rivers to tropical birdwatching to hiking in the waterfall sanctuary. 

Read our complete Mindo guide here with even more great things to do such as mountain biking and night forest tours :

• The 8 Best Things To Do In Mindo As A Backpacker

Day 6-7 - Quito

Now that you have spent some time adjusting to the high altitude of Ecuador, you can return to Quito to explore further.

On your first day back in the capital, you should ride the Teleferico – Quito’s cable car that takes you from 3000m at the edge of the city, all the way to 3495m at the summit of Volcano Pichincha. At the top, you will have unobstructed views of the city, as well as of the many volcanoes surrounding Quito. Make sure you book into one of the many great backpacker hostels as well to get more great views – Secret Garden is our favourite!

Then on your last day in Quito, it’s time to visit ‘Mitad Del Mundo’ or the middle of the world in English, which is where you can go to stand on the actual equator line.

Our complete guide to the capital where these days are broken down into a more detailed itinerary can be found here:

• The Perfect 3-Day Quito Itinerary 

Day 8-9 - Cotopaxi National Park

Time to get treated to one of the best hostel experiences in all of South America.

Booking a two-night stay at Secret Garden Cotopaxi is the best way to see the National Park and experience the stunning Cotopaxi Volcano . The hostel sits directly opposite the volcano and the views are unrivalled. They also run tours into the park, so everything is taken care of for you.

Everything you need to know about booking and staying at Secret Garden Cotopaxi can be found here:

• Secret Garden Cotopaxi Review 

Day 10-14 - Latacunga / Quilotoa Loop

The next town you visit after Cotopaxi is Latacunga, where you will be preparing for one of the best treks in Ecuador.

You will need to set aside 3 full days to complete the Quilotoa Loop Trek and add in a day after as well for rest and recovery. This self-guided trek through the beautiful Andean countryside comes to 40km in total.

The final day of the trek ends up at the spectacular Quilotoa Crater , one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ecuador. 

All you need to know about preparing for the trek including where to stay in Latacunga and over the 3 days can be found here: 

• The Best Hostels On The Quilotoa Trek 
• The Complete Guide To The Quilotoa Trek

Preparing for your first trip to South America? 

Here are 22 FAQ’s to help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime: 

How To Travel South America: 22 FAQs To Prepare For Your Next Trip

Planning a trip to South America can be an exhilarating adventure filled with diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable experiences. However, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it's essential to be well-prepared on several fronts. Here are 22 frequently asked questions...

Day 15-17 - Baños

Baños is the adventure capital of the country.

But after 3 days of trekking, why not start with a spa and massage day with treatments fuelled by the volcanic activity around the town?

El Refugio is the best choice and one of the many public baths in town.  Along with thermal baths, they have saunas, steam rooms, and offer a range of spa services such as massages, mud baths, and pedicures.

On your second day in Baños, it’s time to ride the ‘Route of Waterfalls’ – A single main road that winds its way through the Baños valley, with waterfalls dotted at almost every corner and bend on the way.

The best stop along the route is Pailon del Diablo , an insanely powerful waterfall that plunges 61 metres (200ft) into a pool of powerful rapids. With bridges and paths running through the gorge, and multiple platforms and viewpoints, this is an incredible natural wonder not to be missed.

On your final day, you have a choice of many other activities including white water rafting, trekking up Tungurahua volcano or just relaxing and enjoying the town.

For more information on all these activities in Baños including the best restaurants, hostels and transport tips, head to the full guide below:

• The Essential Baños 4-Day Itinerary

To end your time in Ecuador, we are heading to the beach to one of the best surf and party destinations in all of South America.

Montanita is a tiny surf town full of great Spanish schools where you can spend your time in the day, and lots of bars, clubs where you can spend your evenings partying away.

Our complete guide Montañita including Spanish schools, surf tips, and nightlife guide can be found here:

• Is Montanita Worth Visiting? 10 Great Reasons To Visit In 2023

Day 22 - Travel Day To Lima

Well done! You’ve ticked off your first country on this 2-month South America Itinerary.

On your final day in Ecuador, you will have to make your way to Guayaquil from Montanita which is a 4–5-hour journey. From there you can take a flight to Lima and continue the next part of this epic 2-month journey.

Days 23-43 - Peru

Day 23-24 - lima.

Your first day in Lima should be spent on the free walking tour of the historical centre. The tour will take you around the highlights of the historical centre such as San Martin Square and the Santo Domingo Church.

After seeing the historical centre it’s time to head to Miraflores . This is the preferred area for tourists and travellers with an abundance of trendy cafes and great restaurants all situated amongst the seafront parks and boardwalks.

On day 2, head to the bohemian district Barranco. Barranco is one of the city’s hippest neighbourhoods with colourful street art, mural-covered buildings, and hidden coffee shops all set within an old colonial-era mansion-style district.

Our Lima backpacker guides have everything you need to know:

• The Best Things To Do In Lima As A Backpacker
• Lima vs Cusco: Which Is Best For You If Short On Time?

Day 25-26 - Paracas

Paracas is Peru’s famous desert filled with rolling dunes and jagged cliffs that drop off to the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.

The entire area is a national park, and this untouched natural landscape is perfect for backpackers looking for exploration and adventure.

You can explore the park by bicycle , ATV, or guided tour on one day. And on the other, a trip to the Ballestas Islands is well worth it. The islands are known as Peru’s Galapagos Islands and you can see whales, sea lions, penguins, and thousands of sea birds on a tour.

All the information you need is for visiting the park can be found below:

• The 4 Best Ways To Visit Paracas National Park
• Paracas Backpacker Guide & 3-Day Itinerary

Day 27-28 - Huacachina

Visiting the desert oasis of Huacachina is a necessary stop on any backpacker’s journey through Peru for several reasons. You get to fly across the desert in sand buggies, sandboard down massive sand dunes and party the night away in the crazy backpacker hostels.

Our 2-day Huacachina itinerary with more information on hostels and restaurants be found here:

• Huacachina 2-Day Backpacker Itinerary 

Day 29-33 - Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Arequipa is an underrated gem of a city bursting with beauty and charm. With tranquil cobblestone streets, fantastic local cuisine, and great rooftop bars , all surrounded by a backdrop of picturesque volcanoes, the city has a lot to offer.

On top of this, this will be your starting point for trekking into Colca Canyon , the second deepest canyon in the world.  

Trekking down into the second deepest canyon in the world is an experience like no other. You’ll spend most of your time picking your jaw up off the floor as you walk around in awe of the canyon’s vastness. The tour will take a full two days and two nights before returning to Arequipa for a day of recovery.

Then from Arequipa, you will need to take an overnight bus to Cusco as it’s a long journey (14 hours). Best to do it whilst sleeping.

For more information on the Arequipa and guided treks into Colca Canyon:

• The Best Things To Do In Arequipa As A Backpacker
• Colca Canyon: Guided Trek Vs Without a Guide

Day 34-36 - Cusco

The ancient capital of the Inca Empire – known for a wealth of archaeological remains and beautiful Spanish colonial-era architecture – is now one of the most popular backpacker hubs in all of South America.

As always, start with a free walking tour on your first day and get a feel for the city. Or if you are feeling adventurous, we highly recommend trekking up to 5000m to the summit of Rainbow Mountain.

Then for your final day in Cusco, you have lots of options to choose from including chocolate tours, massages or partying in the many great backpacker hostels.

For more information on Cusco and the best activities outside of the city such as Rainbow Mountain, check out the posts linked below:

• Cusco Backpacker Guide & Best Things To Do
• Vinicunca vs Palccoyo: Which Rainbow Mountain Is Best?

Day 37-41 - The Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu

One of the best ways to see Machu Picchu is via the 5-day Salkantay Trek.

On this trek, you will see many incredible sights along the way and it’s also the cheapest way to see the ancient citadel as your ticket and accommodation are all included in the price of the trek.

Laguna Humantay and Salkantay Mountain are just two of the incredible places you will visit. The best part though is the c.120km you’ll walk, the friendships formed, and the sense of accomplishment gained from trekking in the mountains with a bunch of random backpackers.

For everything you need to know on planning and preparing for the Salkantay Trek:

• The Salkantay Trek Guide & Itinerary

Day 42-43 - Cusco & Travel To Bolivia

After 5 days of trekking, a rest day in Cusco is needed to recover and wash all your dirty trekking gear. Check out our posts on the best backpacker hostels and restaurants so that your return to Cusco is set up for comfort and relaxation

Then the day, take the 9-hour bus from Cusco to Copacabana to start the final part of this 2-month South America itinerary in Bolivia.

Days 44-60 - Bolivia

Day 44-45 - copacabana & lake titicaca.

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world at 3,810 metres above sea level.

Half of it sits in Peru, the other half in Bolivia. The town of Copacabana on the Bolivian side is a small but pretty place filled with local markets and artisan restaurants, but it’s the lake itself that is the must-see.

Fun activities include walking up to the summit of Cerro Calvario to get beautiful views of the lake and taking a boat tour to Isla del Sol , the largest island on the lake. You can easily arrange tours through your accommodation or head down to the pier to book.

Day 46-48 - La Paz

Once you reach La Paz you have an endless list of things to choose from such as biking down Death Road , trekking in the Valley of the Moon , or climbing Huayna Potosi .

3 days is a good amount of time to cover it all. We recommend riding down Death Road one day and then using the others to explore in and outside of the city.

Follow our La Paz backpacker guide to help you plan further:

• The 13 Best Things To Do In La Paz As A Backpacker

Day 49-52 - Rurenabaque / Amazon Tour

The next step on this 2-month South America itinerary is a visit to the Amazon. From La Paz you can catch a 30-minute flight up north to the frontier town of Rurrenabaque.

Visiting the Amazon in Bolivia is much cheaper and easier compared to other countries in South America.

The standard Amazon tour is 3 days and 2 nights, and you will be picked up in Rurrenabaque. On the tour, your days will be spent on a longboat winding through the tributaries of the Amazon searching for caimans, anacondas, and exotic birds.

We took a day on either side in Rurrenabaque to enjoy the town and rest and recuperate. That’s the beauty of having 2 months travelling – you can slow down and not worry about rushing everywhere all the time.

Our complete guide to booking an Amazon tour and flying to Rurrenabaque from La Paz can be found here:

• How To Visit The Amazon In Bolivia

Day 53 - La Paz

If you prefer to break your long journeys up, then take an extra day in La Paz here.

The flight back from the Amazon is short so if you prefer to save the day then you can either hop on another flight down to Uyuni or take the overnight bus which takes 8-9 hours.

If you decide to take a day here to rest, then make sure you book yourself somewhere nice. La Paz has a wide range of backpacker hostels from budget to luxury hostels.

For more on our favourite backpacker hostels in La Paz:

• The 10 Best Backpacker Hostels In La Paz

Day 54 - Uyuni

Once you arrive in Uyuni, go window shopping for the best salt flat tours (it’s cheaper to book in person!) and get yourself ready – it’s time to end this epic two-month South America trip with probably one of the best tours on the whole continent.

Day 55-57 - Salt Flats Tour

The 3-day Salar De Uyuni tour will take you from one unique landscape to the next, starting with the white expanse of the salt flat on day 1, to the high-altitude desert of the Andes on the next.

Your mind will be blown by all the incredible scenery and you will leave this trip leave on a huge high. The perfect way to end an incredible time in South America!

Uyuni tours can either drop you off at the Chilean border or take you back to the town of Uyuni. As we are at the end of the 2-month itinerary, we assume heading back to Uyuni is best.

Our Uyuni guides have all the information you need including the best tour company and what to pack:

• The Ultimate Uyuni Salt Flats Guide
• When To Visit Uyuni For The Mirror Effect

Day 58-59 – Uyuni / Return to La Paz / Home

Take one final night in the town of Uyuni before returning to La Paz. Once in La Paz, find somewhere nice to stay for your final night in South America before taking your last flight home!

That’s our recommended route and itinerary for travelling South America in 2 months on a budget.

For even more great itineraries that will fit every traveller’s need, check out these posts:

• How To Spend 3 Months In South America
• The Ideal 1-Month Backpacking Itinerary For Peru, Bolivia & Chile
• 4 Fantastic Three-Week Itineraries For South America

How Much Money Do You Need For 2 Months In South America?

To travel to South America for 2 months you need between $2000-$3000.

If you wish to travel South America on a backpacker budget, then $1000 a month is a good rule of thumb. You will need to eat at local markets most days, stay in the cheaper backpacker hostels and stick to local overnight buses for any long journeys. 

Aim to take $3000 if you wish to eat out at a restaurant once or twice a week, if you want to pay for a more expensive tour every now and then and want to take the odd flight between countries to speed up your journey time so you have longer in each place you visit.

If two months is too much or not enough for you for an extended South America itinerary, check out the post below that summarises six of the best itineraries I’ve put together:

• How Many Days Do You Need In South America – 6 Great Itineraries That Work For Every Traveller

Popular South America Itineraries

If you have more than two-weeks to spare then why not check out our other South America itineraries ranging from three weeks to three months:

• 5 Expertly Curated Three-Week South America Itineraries
• The Comprehensive Six-Week South America Backpacking Itinerary
• 4 Epic 1-Month South America Backpacking Itineraries
• The Perfect 2-Month South America Itinerary For Budget Backpackers
• The Ideal 3-Month South America Backpacking Itinerary
• The Perfect 1-Month Peru and Bolivia Itinerary
• The 8 Best Digital Nomad Cities In South America
• 4 Perfectly Planned 10-Day Itineraries For South America 
• 4 Fast-Paced One Week Backpacking Itineraries For South America
• A Flashpacker Five-Week South America Itinerary
• From North to South: The Complete 10-Week South America Itinerary
• Colombia, Ecuador & Peru Itinerary: From Two Weeks To Two Months

Do You Want To See South America On A Budget?

See Machu Picchu, the Amazon and the Bolivian Salt Flats, all with this efficient money-saving itinerary

Why did the bridge collapse and what is the death toll?

What is the death toll so far, when did the baltimore bridge collapse, why did the bridge collapse, who will pay for the damage and how much will the bridge cost.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO REBUILD THE BRIDGE?

What ship hit the baltimore bridge, what do we know about the bridge that collapsed.

HOW WILL THE BRIDGE COLLAPSE IMPACT THE BALTIMORE PORT?

Get weekly news and analysis on the U.S. elections and how it matters to the world with the newsletter On the Campaign Trail. Sign up here.

Writing by Lisa Shumaker; Editing by Daniel Wallis and Josie Kao

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

Lisa's journalism career spans two decades, and she currently serves as the Americas Day Editor for the Global News Desk. She played a pivotal role in tracking the COVID pandemic and leading initiatives in speed, headline writing and multimedia. She has worked closely with the finance and company news teams on major stories, such as the departures of Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and significant developments at Apple, Alphabet, Facebook and Tesla. Her dedication and hard work have been recognized with the 2010 Desk Editor of the Year award and a Journalist of the Year nomination in 2020. Lisa is passionate about visual and long-form storytelling. She holds a degree in both psychology and journalism from Penn State University.

'Oppenheimer' director Christopher Nolan to be given knighthood

British-American filmmaker Christopher Nolan, fresh from his Oscar victory for historical drama "Oppenheimer", will receive a knighthood from Britain for services to film.

Advertisement

The Dali was just starting a 27-day voyage.

The ship had spent two days in Baltimore’s port before setting off.

• Share full article

By Claire Moses and Jenny Gross

• Published March 26, 2024 Updated March 27, 2024

The Dali was less than 30 minutes into its planned 27-day journey when the ship ran into the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday.

The ship, which was sailing under the Singaporean flag, was on its way to Sri Lanka and was supposed to arrive there on April 22, according to VesselFinder, a ship tracking website.

The Dali, which is nearly 1,000 feet long, left the Baltimore port around 1 a.m. Eastern on Tuesday. The ship had two pilots onboard, according to a statement by its owners, Grace Ocean Investment. There were 22 crew members on board, the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore said in a statement. There were no reports of any injuries, Grace Ocean said.

Before heading off on its voyage, the Dali had returned to the United States from Panama on March 19, harboring in New York. It then arrived on Saturday in Baltimore, where it spent two days in the port.

Maersk, the shipping giant, said in a statement on Tuesday that it had chartered the vessel, which was carrying Maersk cargo. No Maersk crew and personnel were onboard, the statement said, adding that the company was monitoring the investigations being carried out by the authorities and by Synergy Group, the company that was operating the vessel.

“We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected,” the Maersk statement said.

The Dali was built in 2015 by the South Korea-based Hyundai Heavy Industries. The following year, the ship was involved in a minor incident when it hit a stone wall at the port of Antwerp . The Dali sustained damage at the time, but no one was injured.

Claire Moses is a reporter for the Express desk in London. More about Claire Moses

Jenny Gross is a reporter for The Times in London covering breaking news and other topics. More about Jenny Gross

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

• Destinations
• Asia (Central)
• Asia (East)
• Australasia & Pacific
• Central America
• Europe & Russia
• Middle East
• North America
• South America & Antarctica

South Africa (Africa)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A.
• Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Rabies; Tetanus; Typhoid.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: none.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria precautions

• Malaria risk is present throughout the year, but highest from September to May inclusive. Risk is high in low altitude areas of Mpumalanga Province (including Kruger National Park) and Limpopo Province, Vhembe and Mopani districts, Musina, Thohoyandou and surrounds. There is low to no risk areas in all other areas.
• Malaria precautions are essential. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Check with your doctor or nurse about suitable antimalarial tablets.
• See malaria map – additional information can be found by clicking on the Regional Information icon below the map. 
• High risk areas: atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine is usually advised for those visiting risk areas.
• Low to no risk areas: antimalarials are not usually advised.
• If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure.
• If travelling to an area remote from medical facilities, carrying standby emergency treatment for malaria may be considered.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, schistosomiasis, entry/exit birth certificate requirement for children.

Additional documents, such as a birth certificate and parental consent letter, may be requested by the South African authorities when entering or leaving the Republic of South Africa with children. The requirements are dependent on the child’s nationality.

• See the South African Department of Home Affairs website and the GOV.UK website for further information.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

• 85 additional items in the news archive for this country

back to top