Buzz
South America is a highly favored destination for travel enthusiasts. Whether it's hiking up mountains, basking in the sun on pristine beaches, or exploring ancient civilizations, travelers are guaranteed unique experiences that are hard to come by elsewhere.
However, South America is not as 'easygoing' as Europe or Asian countries. Before embarking on your journey, thorough preparation and in-depth research about the region you're about to explore are essential.
Here are some guidelines for you:
1. Security Concerns
Generally, traveling in South America is quite safe, but there are still places marked with a 'Caution' sign for tourists. For instance, Colombia has had a bad reputation for its security issues, and the country is working hard to regain trust from travelers.
As a result, although not yet 100%, Colombia has built some fantastic resorts that are very safe for families when traveling in South America.
2. Health Matters
Make sure you schedule a doctor's appointment before heading to South America. You need to check if you're fit for the entire journey. Additionally, the doctor will advise you on the medications to bring, as a precaution in case you fall ill while abroad.
Some medications you should pack include rehydration salts (for diarrhea), pain relievers, cold and fever medication. Motion sickness pills are also essential to cope with sea or motion sickness during your travels.
If you feel the need for stronger medication or medical treatment while traveling, seek assistance from hotel staff or your accommodation host. South America offers excellent healthcare options, and the cost of medication is quite affordable.
Moreover, consider getting vaccinated against easily communicable diseases, especially those with the potential to become an outbreak in the region you're about to visit. Prioritized vaccines include yellow fever, hepatitis A, influenza, and typhoid.
3. Passport and Visas
Make sure you have a passport for your trip to South America. Many countries require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your arrival. Each country has different entry requirements, so research thoroughly to avoid unnecessary delays at the airport.
4. Learn Some Spanish Phrases
South America is predominantly Spanish-speaking (except for Brazil, which speaks Portuguese). Knowing a few simple Spanish phrases like greetings, thank you, asking for directions, etc., can be very helpful for your journey.
Moreover, you'll want to understand more about the types of food you'll have for dinner. To achieve that, the only way left is to take a basic Spanish course.
If you don't have much time to learn? Don't worry! Translation apps like Tripwise, Google Translate, and DuoLingo will be your lifesavers.
5. Plan Ahead
It takes at least three months to plan and prepare for a trip to familiar countries. But for South America, this number should be six months. You need to consider if you have only a week here, which country to visit.
A piece of advice for you is not to overwhelm yourself with the desire to visit every place. Each South American country is vast. Without proper time allocation, you're likely to end up spending too much time on airplanes, while visiting too few landmarks.
6. Choose the Right Travel Time
Due to its geographical span across various latitudes, influenced by coastal areas with warm and cold ocean currents, South America has diverse climate zones: equatorial, subequatorial, tropical, subtropical, and more. Therefore, for a perfect trip, check the weather of your destination to prepare suitable clothing and equipment.
7. Pack Smartly
South America is a land of endless exploration. Therefore, the climate will undergo significant changes between cities. While coastal areas are often humid, cities at higher altitudes will be colder, especially at night. Hence, meticulous packing is crucial, especially ensuring you have enough warm clothing for the journey.
However, due to frequent movement, don't carry the entire world with you. Items available in your home country (such as personal care products, shampoo, etc.) don't need to go in your suitcase. Sanitary pads, cotton pads for makeup removal, and similar items take up a considerable space in your luggage.
8. Embrace the Bus Life
Traveling by bus is an excellent way to explore South America, as flights can consume a significant amount of your budget. Remember to bring light snacks to avoid feeling tired during the bus journey.
9. Be Adaptable in Every Situation
Flexibility with pre-made plans allows you to stay longer in a charming small town or escape from a city with nothing interesting earlier than expected.
Don't fret too much about accommodation. Hotels and guesthouses in South America allow travelers to book/cancel rooms 1-2 days in advance without any extra charges. So, don't hesitate to break your pre-set schedule, adding new enticing locations to your journey.
10. Don't Forget Travel Insurance
Never travel abroad without having travel insurance in hand. In case you unfortunately fall ill during your trip, you'll be covered for hospitalization expenses in a foreign country, as well as medical costs and expenses for relatives visiting.
Additionally, travel insurance also comes in handy if you lose travel documents, experience lost luggage, or face cancellations or delays in your journey.
Ultimate Guide to Traveling Through South America. [Link](https://www.tripsavvy.com/traveling-through-south-america-1637258)
Posted by: Дарья Шкилюк
Keywords: 10 Tips for an Unforgettable South American Adventure
