van travel south america

The best list of vanlife essentials in South America

• January 31, 2024

Due to its vastness,  South America is perfect for exploration by car . If you are travelling for a long period in South America, buying your own car can be a valable option. In our blogpost on  how to buy a car in Chile , we provide detailed information on how to buy your own car in South America.

When you are travelling with a car or a campervan in South America, you are in for an adventurous cross-country road trip with stunning landscapes, friendly people and lifechanging experiences! But vanlife is also a minimalist lifestyle where you live in a very tiny space. So sometimes it is difficult to decide what to take with you. Below, we created a  list of vanlife essentials in South America  to help you plan your trip through South America! This list is specifically designed for travelling with a campervan. Therefore we will not elaborate on standard travel equipment like for example type of clothes, shoes, hiking gear, …

Table of Contents

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Essential paperworks for your campervan in South America

Before you start your road trip, make sure you have these essentials with you:

• Your (international)  driving licence  and  registration of the car . Keep in mind that to cross certain borders, it will be important that the car is registered on your name.
• Your  passport  that you will need to cross the borders. Always store your passport safely and make copies in case your passport gets lost or stolen.
• Insurance papers.  Be aware that certain countries in South America require that you take car insurance in their country upon arrival in the country. We arrived in Peru on a Sunday, with insurance companies closed. Unfortunately, that day the police pulled us apart and we got a fine for not having the correct insurance.

Essential apps for your roadtrip 

App Park4Night .  This app is a perfect companion for your roadtrip. It has a huge database with campsites and spots were overnight camping is allowed. The community behind Park4Night is very active, so plenty of great spots to choose from.

App iOverlander .  Similar as Park4Night, the app iOverlander has proven to be a very useful app for travellers. The app is designed for overlanders and campers. It gives an overview of all places that are relevant for those who travel with a car or campervan.

Maps.me .  This app allows you to download maps of certain regions when wifi is available. When there is no internet connection this app allows you to navigate without an internet connection and mark places for later use.

Vanlife essentials for road trip emergencies

Even though you have a trustworthy vehicle, you should be prepared for anything and everything during your roadtrip through South America.

If you are heading to a less-populated area or off the beaten track, expect to drive on dirt and sandy roads with no other people around. It would be unfortunate to get stuck in these places, so be prepared for the two most common issues: a dead battery and a flat tire.

A dead battery can happen every moment, just by forgetting to put out a light or the battery life deteriorating over time. So besides  a pair of jumper cables , it can be worthwhile to take an emergency car battery jump starter with you.

Regarding tires, you should always carry at least one full-size spare tire with you. A  hydraulic car jack  will lift your camper van off the ground with ease. But it can also be worthwhile to bring  a fix-a-flat  for emergency situations. If you got stuck in sand, lowering the tire pressure can be the solution. In that case, you afterwards have to pressure the tires back up, and  a tire inflator  then comes in handy. And  a shovel  to dig you out of the sand also belongs in the list of vanlife essentials in South America.

Let’s hope it won’t happen to you, but a campervan can set on fire. We suggest to have a  fire extinguisher  at all times with you. If you cook inside your van, we highly recommend to have a  carbon monoxide detector  with you to warn you in case of a possible danger of CO poisoning.

A final essential for road trip emergencies is a  first aid kit .

Vanlife essentials for electronics 

Dependent on the car you have at your disposal, the car will have an extra battery (a so-called household battery) that is charged via the main battery of your car or via solar panels. However, if your car has no extra battery, this shouldn’t be a problem either. To charge your electronic equipment, you can bring a  rechargeable battery-powered generator like a  Jackery power station  and an accompanying  solar panel.

Another item we use a lot during our travels is a  wireless modem.  You just insert a SIM-card and you are ready to connect your devices to the internet.

What you take with you regarding electronic equipment depends on the needs you have:

• A laptop and charger
• A smartphone and charger
• Equipment for photography of videography. We are huge fans of drone shots and the next time we travel to South America, we’ll definitely take our  DJI mini 2  with us.
• A tripod for making photos of the starry sky or to light paint in the desert
• A  headlamp  when you have to go outside when it is dark.

Sleeping essentials 

Your van will be your home on the road, so it’s definitely worth to make a comfy space of it.

We recommend to take comfy pillows with you and a warm duvet. In case the evenings are getting really cold an additional fleece or  flannel blanket  can give you that extra comfort. Note that in South America they sell blankets from Alpaca wool which are really warm and comfortable. Another thing that is used often by vanlifers in South America is a  hot water bottle .

If you are a light sleeper, ear plugs and a sleeping mask may come in handy.

To make your bedroom/living space a more home like feeling, it can be worth to take some extra throw pillows with you, that you can also use to sit on outside or to support your back when sitting on the bed.

What us made really feel at home were the  fairy lights  above our bed. They functioned as our light in the van in the evening. As they are battery powered, we were sure we didn’t drain our battery.

Kitchen essentials

Being able to prepare food in the middle of magnificent landscapes and to have dinner while soaking up the beauty of nature is for us one of the best aspects of vanlife.

Water containers  are a must-have when camping off-grid. Containers that have a tap make it easy to use them for drinking water. We recommend to use square containers because they take up the least amount of space.

A cooking stove  that works on propane. This cooking stove has two burners, which is sufficient for us to prepare a healthy meal. Wind-blocking panels are a must-have in certain areas in South America. Don’t forget to bring a lighter with you, not only for cooking but also to make a campfire.

A compact water boiler to make coffee, tea or cook something simple. The  Jetboil Flash  boils 1 L of water in 100 seconds. Perfect when the weather is not ideal to cook outside or to take with you during a hike.

One of the best things we had with us during our travels through South America was a  collapsible toaster . This allowed us to eat bread that was already a couple days old.

A  portable cooler bag . Although it can be cold in South-America, it can also be very hot. To keep your food (and drinks) refrigerated, a portable cooler bag can be a good solution if you don’t have a 12V fridge.

Pots and pans.  When we cook, we use a deep pan that we also can use as an improvised wok. Next to a pan, we use one medium-sized pot and  a kettle .

Plates, bowls and mugs . During your travels through South America, you will drive on many dirt roads with plenty of potholes. Ceramic tableware is therefore a big no and we recommend to use plates and bowls that don’t break easily. We especially like  enamel tableware  instead of plastic bowls and plates.

Cooking utensils  like a spatula and a soup spoon

A  lifestraw water bottle  is not only a vanlife essential, but it’s an essential item for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. They filter the dirtiest water in clean water.

South America has some excellent wines. With these  silicon wine glasses  you can enjoy wine (or other drinks) wherever you want. As these are foldable, these are also excellent to take with you in a backpack.

To keep your kitchen essentials clean, don’t forget to take kitchen towels and dish rags with you. And of course a  biodegradable dish detergent

And most importantly, good  chairs  and a  foldable table  are essential in South-America to sit down and watch the magnificent landscapes.

Cleaning essentials

Keeping your van clean.

When travelling through South America, expect dirt roads! A lot of dirt roads! So be prepared to have a lot of sand and dust coming into your van. To keep our van clean, we took a  brush and dustpan , dust cloths and cleaning spray with us. To remove dust from more difficult places, we recommend  dust cleaning gel .

Packing cubes  can help you to keep everything in your van organized. It is a small space, so keeping it organized is key!

Keeping yourself clean

But of course, it is also important to keep yourself clean during your travels. Below are the most important hygienic essentials we take with us:

• A collapsible tub  is not only an excellent tool to do your dishes but also ideal to do a handwash.
• Biodegradable  laundry detergent  and a  laundry bag . We definitely recommend a laundry bag that is sealable. A van is a small space and the last thing you want is to smell your smelly socks the entire day! A  washing line and pegs  are also very helpful when doing your laundry on the road.
• A  portable pressure shower ,  biodegradable soap and shampoo  and  microfiber towels  (you want towels that dry fast in your van)
• In case you can’t shower, we highly recommend to take  wet wipes  with you.

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South America by Campervan - Freek and Inge’s Adventure

While campervans are great for a weekend getaway or a short camping break, they’re also ideal for taking longer trips. Years ago this would only be associated with hippies trekking the famed hippie trail, but now it isn’t just a treat for the wilder ones, it is something many individuals choose to enjoy. An example of this would be Freek and Inge, perhaps not your first thought when you consider #vanlife. They decided to take on a huge challenge, one rarely done before… to travel through South America in their Volkswagen T3! After drooling over their trip through amazing Instagram photos, we decided it was definitely time for an interview.

Warning: Readers may be overcome with immense wanderlust and an overpowering desire to quit their job, sell their house and go live in a van. Goboony takes no responsibility for this, and we advise those suffering to try renting a van first.

The Preparation

So Freek and Inge, how did you guys get inspired to take this trip?

We've backpacked a lot in the past, mainly through Asia. On our last trip through the Philippines, we discussed more and more the idea of heading out for a longer time, and started looking forward to the adventure. Slowly but surely we came to the idea of heading out with a campervan, to travel for a long time with the ultimate feeling of freedom. To set out for the world in our little house on wheels. We thought it would be so cool! Endless roads, music blasting and simply going for it. We had never been to the continent of America and thought it would be a great place to discover stunning nature while camping. We first had our sights set on the entire Panamerica route, but this soon turned out to unfeasible in terms of time. Then we looked at just the North American part (Canada/ America/ Mexico), but after lots of research we realized this was also unrealistic. Our Eddie was too old to insure in America. So after careful consideration - a lot of it!- we decided to gamble and head to South America. The rules for insuring our senior citizen are not as complicated there, and everything was fairly simple to arrange for these countries. We had just never been to a Latin American country, and when it comes to traffic you can’t even compare South American countries to those in North America… so we thought it was definitely an ambitious plan, but sometimes you have to just go for it!

What things did you do to prepare for your trip?

A lot of daydreaming! But we also read a lot about travelling through South America with your own car, emailed other experienced travellers, read blogs and tested the van in holidays and weekends away. It was also a spiritual process, to free us from our daily lives. Yes, we really wanted this, but it also took a lot of work and thinking to actually make it happen. Furthermore, it also takes quite some courage to do something that everyone has an opinion about. “Would you actually do that?” “Wouldn’t it be better to do something else?” “That is totally unsafe!” “Doesn’t seem like a good idea to me with such an old van” and on and on. Fortunately, we’ve always followed our own path and were determined to make this happen.

The Adventure

How exciting was it with Eddie was set in his container on the boat?

That was sooooooo exciting but of course there were some tears about it! The last few weeks we had been busy almost 24/7 with the trip, the van, preparing everything, packing, etc. and suddenly it was out of our hands. It really was a definite step, before this we could always cancel but now we had no way back. We were actually going to do this! At that moment, all the exhaustion of weeks working and preparing was hitting us and all we could do was trust that we would see our van again unscathed. The following days felt so unreal and it was such a strange idea that we would only see Eddie in 2 or 3 weeks in Cartagena (Colombia).

Do you guys plan a lot or take it by ear?

Both. We like to let ourselves be surprised, but not too much. We find it nice to map out a direction for roughly the next two weeks. In the meantime we also gladly listen to tips from other travellers we run into. Our plan is never cast in concrete, but it is important to plan which roads we will be driving on. Eddie is quite the old timer, and he is certainly not an off-road vehicle, so we really have to consider which roads to take. On the other hand, we try not to think about which places and sights we’ll visit, as if you have everything figured out and develop certain expectations, it can turn out so differently in real life. We find it better to expect as little as possible, so that surprises along the way are bigger and better.

What kind of places do you overnight at? Are they easy to find?

We’ve stayed at all sorts of places. We definitely use the iOverlander platform a lot, which is kind of the travellers abroad Bible! The platform is fed by fellow travellers, and anyone can add new places or information, or leave reviews about existing places. There are also many wild camping spots on the website and app, which is useful. Sometimes we also find a spot spontaneously. In Colombia, we wild camped in the beautiful Tatacoa desert and on the Caribbean coast along palm trees. In Peru we wild camped by the Colca Valley where we saw Condors flying by towards the end of the afternoon. It was also epic to camp on the sandy plains of Paracas. But we also often camp in the garden of hostels, in guarded parking lots and occasionally at a petrol station if nothing else works out. That is also part of the experience!

What has been the best part so far?

We have driven a few insanely beautiful routes through South America! Along the unpaved super small road of Trampolin de la Muerte (Colombian Death Road) surrounded by rainforest, through Cañon Del Pato with 37 small tunnels en route and 4000 metres high on the Altiplano; the plateau of Peru/ Bolivia, so awesome! These are the kinds of places you don’t reach as easily as a backpacker. Furthermore, camping at Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia was truly one of our highlights. And although it meant leaving our van for a little while, the trip along the Galapagos islands was unforgettable.

Where are you still planning to go this trip?

Well, we are currently in Argentina. We will head to Chile to zigzag down to the southernmost point of this continent. Then it looks like we’ll put Eddie back on the boat in Montevideo in Uruguay.

What is it like to always be in such a small van together?

It’s actually not a problem and somehow it costs us no effort! These months have shown us that we’re a good team and that having a lot of time together works well and is enjoyable. Whereas in everyday life you can simply pass each other a lot, here we have the time to really be together and experience all kinds of things together. Making memories for life! So valuable and luckily we’re not tired of each other just yet.

Do you think you would have preferred a van with a high roof?

Actually not! Our van is compact and that is very useful, especially with the small streets here. Furthermore, our van fitted exactly in the container. Once we’re at a campsite, lifting the roof offers a lot of extra living and storage space. We just need to make sure not to bring too many things with us. Generally we sleep upstairs in the lifting roof, so that we don’t have to adjust too much in the morning.

Tips and other fun facts

Do you have any tips for people looking to travel with a campervan?

It is useful to know what kind of a traveller you are, so you can choose your campervan based off that. If you like  going off-road, you’ll need an off-road vehicle. But this does result in more limited living space in these types of vehicles (sometimes only a pop-up roof). We think it’s nice to have a cheerful noticeable van, and despite the smaller size, a lot of thought has gone into the German Westfalia layout. We really do have a small house on wheels despite it not being a large motorhome, it is great! Also, the advantage of an old-timer is that the technology of the van is simple and mechanical, so easy to understand and repair both for us and the mechanics of South America! That really is something you must consider if you plan to travel in these sorts of countries. Furthermore, it’s so important to not let things hold you back, everyone will have opinions but only yours matters.

Nevertheless it is good to realize that such a journey is not comparable to a holiday. Yeah it is cool, but sometimes it can be hard. There isn’t always a shower or toilet nearby, sometimes your long days can feel boring. Things can go wrong, you can get stuck on bad roads, not find a nice place to overnight or suddenly spend a week in a garage due to vehicle failure. It isn’t always nice but that is simply a part of the deal. It also takes a lot of time to orientate on possible routes, sights, car maintenance, etc., so you might not have as much reflection and peace as you’d expect.

What are things that you really can’t forget if you’re taking such a long trip?

Spare parts for the van (and a workshop manual if possible!), the right clothing for all weather conditions and a little bit of flexibility! It will never go exactly as you planned. And last but not least, don’t forget to give a bit of kindness to those you’re sharing your few square metres with for the long period.

Where else would you like to take Eddie?

Mmmmm, we still have so many plans with Eddie! During our travels here, we’ve been getting so much inspiration for new adventures! The trip to America, Canada and Mexico still appeals to us, so who knows. The old Soviet states also seem very exciting. But we are also never tired of a weekend getaway to the Veluwe, so when we return we’ll certainly take a lot of small trips again.

The sky's the limit for these two and their trusted van, and you can follow their journey and the ones to come at @littlebigbusadventure . Inspired by their tales, why not start your own adventure and take a road trip through the great unknown? You could always hire your campervan through Goboony . Got your own travel stories to tell? Shoot a message to [email protected] and share the freedom!

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How much does it cost to travel around South America for a year?

Living on the road.

In this article we want to tell you how much money we have spent in one year travelling through South America with our camper van. Also we want to share some useful tips to reduce your expenses on your “Road Trip” across the continent 😉

Countries: Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile and Peru. Kilometers : 31.021

How much does it cost to travel around South America for a year? (according to 2 People)

After a year in the Americas we are happy because the expenses have been more or less the same as when we were travelling around Europe, despite of crossing countries where life cost is much higher than in Europe, such as Uruguay and Argentina. Plus the long distances you need to drive within a single country.

1 year – 2 people – La Furiosa (VW T4) – 5 countries – 31.021 km

Below are the expenses that are NOT included in this budget:

• All transportation costs to ship the van from Germany – Uruguay RO & RO – 2,000 €
•  One way air tickets Spain – Uruguay – 664 €

From Europe we have to cross the Atlantic to visit South America, it is a long way and the airfares are not very cheap. We flew from Barcelona to Montevideo and had a 5 hour stopover in Sau Paulo.

We reduce the costs of the flight tickets looking up in Internet time before flying, searching and comparing all the options; different dates, airlines and cities of origin. It’s a bit of work but it’s worth the effort and the patience.

How have we managed to live travelling in South America with  7,451 € budget for a whole year?

Easy, living in La Furiosa, a beautiful Camper. A beautiful house.

Creating new projects to get financing in any country and changing habits that help us to save when it comes to cooking, sleeping, carrying out regular checks and maintenance of the vehicle, mechanics, supplies and many more things that are detailed in our second book “Guide to Living the Van Life”

What are the biggest expenses we find on a camper van trip and how do we try to minimize them?

Food and Beverage Expenses in South America: 2.341€

We have spent 2,241 € on food and beverage, which together with diesel, become the two main expenses to deal with while living on the route. Eating well is very important to us, we love cooking, take our time to prepare a nice breakfast , enjoy a bottle of wine from time to time looking at the sunset either the stars and also celebrate with a few mojitos the miles travelled and those that remain to be traveled.

Eating in restaurants and frequenting bars is something we don´t miss at all .  It is something we can live without. Obviously there are countries like Peru or Bolivia where a menu; soup, main course and soda, can cost around  1.5 €, so good, who can refuse to that?

The best way to save enough money is to buy food directly in markets or supermarkets and cook it ourselves. Fishing, when you can and there is luck, also favors the stomach and the pocket. Normally we try to cook with fire, the food comes out very rich and does not waste any gas. We prepare soups, pizzas and any food you can imagine. In South America we found no major problem when cooking with fire.

In Europe we are used to go to the supermarket that is usually cheaper than a small business, but here in South America is just the opposite. In this way we also support the small business, we meet a lot of local people and we try things that maybe otherwise, we would never buy.

We have a large warehouse and a refrigerator that allows us to store enough fresh food.

Fuel costs in South America: 2,428 €

The distances in South America are huge and our VW T4, (La Furiosa) is a super efficient vehicle, it spends about 8 or 9 liters of fuel every 100 km. During this year we have travelled 31,021 kilometers and we have spent 2,428 € in diesel. The price of fuel in South America is much lower than Europe.

We try to reduce fuel costs by filling the tank and the Jerry Can where diesel is cheaper. We travelled slowly, without hurry and at an average speed of 90 km / h.

But the expense depends a lot on the type of roads we use. We never give up losing by unpaved roads or routes with continuous slopes where the maximum speed can be around 20km / h.

The choice of the vehicle is very important, since consumption is the main expense in this way of life. We have met travellers whose vans consume 20 liters per 100 km.

Vehicle costs: 1,600 € 

• Change of the 4 wheels in Paraguay, where they are much cheaper.
• 900 Euros of parts imported from North America, since it is impossible to find spare parts for our van in South America.
• Filters, oils and any other spare.
• Visits to the mechanic when we can not repair or carry out the maintenance of the Furious.

Accommodation costs: 233 €

In the last 12 months of travel we have paid for accommodation a total of 27 nights in a year … the rest of the nights have been wild camping. 15 of these nights have been in an apartment in a coastal town because our state of health cried for rest and a bathroom. 😓 We paid € 82 for the 15 nights.

Of the 15 days we were in Montevideo waiting for our van to arrive we stayed part of the days at home of local people through Couchsurfing, and the rest at a lovely woman’s house through Airbnb, where we spent 100 €. The ship was delayed a week in arriving at port, unforeseen that gave rise to these 100 €

In the following map you will find all the places where we sleep, we will update as the journey progresses, but for now there are free overnight sites in the 26 countries covered with the van.

Miscellaneous expenses: 949 €

This amount includes expenses such as: tickets to natural parks, museums or other attractions, toilet paper, gas, fishing instruments, cleaning items, various tools, ferries in Argentina and Chile, restaurants or bars and different extras.

For those who hesitate 😋

We have not been eating just rice in the last 365 days. As we said earlier we love to eat and cook. We have time and that shows in the dishes we prepared.

We have visited the Iguazu Falls, the Perito Moreno, the Torres del Paine and countless wonderful natural monuments. We arrived in Ushuaia; end of the world, we have seen penguins, whales, many birds, sea lions, snakes and even a black panther in its natural habitat. We have climbed volcanoes, felt earthquakes, strolled through the desert, salares, coast, through the Andes Mountains and met many magnificent people. We have lived the life of the jungle in the middle of the Amazon, we have tried many types of fruits and vegetables of which we had never heard. We have made puénting, kayak, tirolina, cannyoning and a lot of walks through mountains, discovering lagoons and glaciers. We have driven the famous Route 40 and the Carretera Austral.

We have just lived

If you want to explore, learn and travel with your camper van around the world it is definitely worth it.

Click HERE if you want to read more about “Guide to living the Van Life” or click the YELLOW button to start the download

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Have you travelled in South America? do you have any advice you woud like to share?

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Home Destinations South America

RV Rental South America

The vastness of South America makes this continent very suitable to explore by RV. The continent offers most of nature’s beauties: volcanoes, snowy mountain caps, ice-blue lakes, white salt fields, overwhelming waterfalls, outstretched forests, bare deserts and warm sandy beaches…all this you will find when you make a trip by rental camper around South America! Looking for RV rental in South America? Request a free quote on our website.

RV trip in South America

In countries like Chile , Argentina and Colombia the roads are very suitable for a round trip by camper. The landscape you will see during your round trip is very varied. For instance, in the long but narrow country of Chile, you can drive your rental camper from snowy mountains to beautiful sandy beaches within a couple of hours. For culture lovers, there is also plenty to see and do on this continent. The South American cities offer beautiful old colonial buildings, museums, theatres, and of course bars and restaurants.

RV rental with WorldWide Campers

Worldwide Campers works together with Holiday Rent and offers a variety of rental campers in South America. Do you want a comfortable motor home for six people or are you looking for a budget camper for two? With Worldwide Campers, you can choose the camper that fits your needs.

Interested in RV rental in Argentina? Worldwide Campers offers RV rental in multiple locations within the country.

Interested in RV rental in Chile? Worldwide Campers offers RV rental in multiple locations within the country.

Interested in RV rental in Colombia? Worldwide Campers offers RV rental in Bogota and Cali

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Harrison Pierce is a freelance writer and digital nomad passionate about personal finance and travel. He is traveling full-time with the help of points and miles and enjoys connecting with people on the ground. His work has been published in Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, USA Today Blueprint, Matador Network, and other publications. 

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As a digital nomad who works and travels full time, I spend a good portion of the year in South America. The first city I visited was Buenos Aires, and it immediately stole my heart — it is arguably one of the best cities on the continent . Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to explore beyond Argentina, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay; Peru will be added to that list in the coming months.

South America has unlimited things to offer, from beautiful beaches and mountainside villages to world-class cuisine and two of the New 7 Wonders of the World . With the help of Elisban Huarancca, an official tourism guide in Peru , Eva Castro, owner of Creo Ecolodge Jardin Project in Antioquia, Colombia, and Alexander Balardjischvili, CEO of C2Rio Tours & Travel , we’ve compiled a list of the 25 best places to visit in South America.

Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 5 Favorite Resorts in South America of 2023

Jardín, Antioquia, Colombia

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Jardín is a small town a few hours south of Medellín with colonial architecture, beautiful scenery, and lots to do. Castro of Creo Ecolodge, where I stayed during my trip to Jardín, gave plenty of recommendations for things to do while you’re in town. Take a tour of Cueva del Esplendor, or Cave of Splendor, where you'll find a beautiful waterfall, or head to a nearby coffee farm to learn how Colombian coffee is produced. My favorite is Cafe Historias , which has some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted.  Castro says the best time of year to visit is August and September when there are very few travelers. This is also when the annual Jardin Film Festival takes place. It gets much busier in town from December through April, Castro says.

Cocora Valley, Salento, Colombia

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Due west of Bogota is Cocora Valley, one of Colombia's most famous hiking destinations. You can take a day trip from the nearby town of Salento or do a multi-day hike throughout the valley. There are campsites available for use if you choose to spend the night looking at the stars. It’s famous for having the tallest palm trees in the world, which stand at over 195 feet tall and can live up to 200 years. The almost oversaturated green colors of the hills are stunning. Castro highly recommends going at "golden hour" — early in the morning or late in the afternoon — for the best views.

The Lost City, Magdalena, Colombia

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The Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida in Spanish, is located near Santa Marta in northern Colombia. It’s estimated to have been founded in the 8th or 9th centuries, making it hundreds of years older than Machu Picchu. It was home to anywhere between 1,400 to 3,000 people and about 170 terraces, with apparent spaces for living, working, and religious practice. You’ll have to do a three- to six-day trek with a tour company to get there. On the way, you will see rare native plants and wildlife, which is an adventure in itself. 

The Rock of Guatapé, Guatapé, Colombia

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Guatapé is a town in northern Colombia, directly east of Medellín, and it’s famous for The Rock of Guatapé, which is reached via more 740 steps. At the end of your climb, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the town and different islands in Guatapé Lake. The town is reachable via a bus ride that's less than two hours from Medellín, making it a perfect weekend trip.  “The people here are more welcoming and warm,” says Castro. “When you are walking, you can find many smiling faces... It’s part of our culture.”

San Rafael, Antioqua, Colombia

San Rafael is excellent “if you really want to have the deepest connection with yourself and with nature,” says Castro. She recommends Vanadurga Ashram , a yoga sanctuary, if you want to practice yoga while you're here. “These places are really magical, and you can learn how to change your perspective," Castro adds.

San Rafael is known for its natural beauty, including mountains, waterfalls, and rivers. You can bird watch, hike, or simply soak in nature. “People want to come to have an inner journey,” says Castro. “If that’s your goal — to find out something inside of you — I’d recommend places like San Rafael.”

Cusco, Peru

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If you are interested in Inca ruins, Cusco is the perfect place. Churches, museums, and winding streets here will leave you charmed. “Travelers to Peru should know that they will face a diverse and colorful culture, with very warm and very friendly people,” says Huarancca. “Also, understand that they will face different flavors that will help them experience every second of their trip.” Cusco makes a great starting point to reach Machu Picchu. Many travelers spend a few days here exploring and acclimating to the 11,150-foot elevation. (In comparison, Denver has an elevation of 5,280 feet.)

Machu Picchu, Peru

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Arguably one of the most famous places in the world, Machu Picchu is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. The site was initially an Inca citadel, likely built in the 1450s and often called “The Lost City of the Incas.” Machu Picchu is about 50 miles from Cusco; from there, you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus to the site. You cannot visit without a tour guide, so make reservations well in advance.  “The visit to Machu Picchu can be all year round; different climatic factors help to understand the mysterious nature of Machu Picchu,” says Huarancca. “But if you are looking for dates with little rain, it is well suited from April to the end of October.”

Lake Titicaca, Peru

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Lake Titicaca is the largest of South America's freshwater lakes, as well as the world's highest navigable lake. It’s an estimated three million years old, and there are man-made islands constructed of layers of tortora roots and reeds. The number of islands varies at any given time but is usually somewhere between f40 to 60. You will have some of the best views in the Andes from this place, and it is extremely important to Peruvian and Bolivian indigenous communities.

Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca, Peru

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Close to Cusco in the Andes Mountains is Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain because of the colorful stripes on display year-round. The colors result from different mineral layers that were combined with melted ice to create rows of reds, yellows, purples, and greens.

The Amazon Rainforest, Peru

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The Amazon Rainforest spans eight countries and is almost 2.6 million square miles in size. You can visit the Peruvian Amazon from three areas: Manu National Park, Tambopata Province, and the city of Iquitos. Each provides something unique to tourists. The best option depends on what you want to see, how much time you can spend, and your budget.  “The only recommendation I can give to international travelers is to make reservations in advance and have good information about the places you will visit,” says Huarancca. “It is necessary to find out the type of food, drinks, and traditions that place has.”

Huacachina, Peru

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Huarancca recommends visiting Huacachina, “a small oasis in the middle of the desert.” Located south of Lima and near the city of Ica, Huacachina is a desert village complete with rolling sand dunes on all sides. You can't swim in Huacachina Lagoon, but you can rent paddle boats to glide across the water. It’s the only natural oasis in all of South America, formed by underground aquifers.

Colca Canyon, Peru

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Colca Canyon is another tourist attraction in Peru that you should not miss, according to Huarancca. It’s one of the world’s deepest canyons (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon) and you can take a day trip from Arequipa to see it or a multi-day trek for the most spectacular views. Either way you're likely to see plenty of native wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia

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Bolivia is home to the largest salt flat in the world, originally a prehistoric lake that went dry. Now Uyuni Salt Flat is around 4,200 square miles of striking white salt and rock formations. If you visit between December and April, which is the rainy season, you may see bright pink flamingos. Many people who have visited when water is on the ground describe the experience as walking on a cloud, since the sky is reflected in the water. Book a room at Kachi Lodge , which is set right on the flat, for a very special stay.

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Christ the Redeemer is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a must-see for anyone heading to Brazil. The statue of Jesus stands almost 125 feet tall and looks over Rio de Janeiro . When visiting the marvel, you can expect phenomenal views of the city. Balardjischvili recommends taking the train to see the statue and to book that ticket in advance.

Pantanal Wetland, Brazil

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Measuring more than 40 million acres, Pantanal Wetland is the biggest wetland on Earth. Jaguars and crocodiles are just two of its residents — with more than 4,700 plant and animal species, it’s one of the most biodiverse destinations on the planet. Balardjischvili recommends “bringing insect repellent, a light raincoat, and a sweatshirt — and always hydrate.”

The Imperial City of Petropolis, Brazil

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Petropolis is a mountain resort outside of Rio de Janeiro known for its palaces, architecture, and food. “Visit Petropolis on a guided tour to enjoy the historical aspect," Balardjischvili says. "Always book your tour on legalized companies with good reviews."

Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Sugarloaf Mountain is a major landmark in Brazil, well known for the panoramic city views guests get at the top. The cable car system here opened in 1912; it was the first in Brazil and the third in the world. “For Sugarloaf, visit it in the morning, as it is fresher; sunset is beautiful but extremely crowded," says Balardjischvili. "If you are traveling during the high season, buy a skip-the-line ticket." The mountain peak sits almost 1,300 feet in the air, so you’ll be grateful you don’t have to climb all the way up. 

When asked about the best time of year to visit Rio de Janeiro, Balardjischvili says May or June, when "you’ll enjoy beautiful sunny days with no rain and 77 degrees.”

Buenos Aires, Argentina

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One of my favorite cities in the world is Buenos Aires , where you can find anything from tango shows and street art to the best steak you’ll ever eat. Each neighborhood has something special. Head to La Boca for beautiful murals along the streets, then tour the famous cemetery in Recoleta before stopping at a speakeasy in Palermo. There’s no shortage of fantastic things to do here, and the city makes a wonderful home base for seeing more of Argentina.

Zuccardi Winery, Uco Valley, Argentina

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Zuccardi Valle de Uco is an award-winning winery that I had the opportunity to visit this past January. It certainly lives up to its reputation, with fantastic wines and the Andes as a stunning backdrop to the property's extensive vineyards. Reservations for tastings and tours can be made online.

Iguazú Falls, Puerto Iguazú, Argentina

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Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls is comprised of about 275 individual waterfalls, making it the largest waterfall system in the world. Most of the waterfalls are on the Argentina side, but the tallest is on the Brazil side. It’s a stunning sight to behold and an absolute must for anyone traveling through South America.

Patagonia, Argentina

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Patagonia is larger than many countries around the world and is split between Argentina and Chile. You can expect each city in the region to feel unique; some of the most popular ones in Argentinian Patagonia are El Calafate, Ushuaia, and El Chaltén. Whether you go to Patagonia Brewery in San Carlos de Bariloche or hike one of the 300 glaciers throughout the region, you will surely have an experience you’ll never forget.

Punta del Este Beaches, Uruguay

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Uruguay is still relatively underrated, but it is a fantastic place for international travelers. It takes just a couple of hours by ferry to get from Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay. From there, it’s about a two-hour drive to Punta del Este, which has some of the best beaches in the country, plus high-end shopping and fantastic steakhouses.

Valparaíso, Chile

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Valparaíso is located on the coast of Chile and is less than a two-hour drive from Santiago. It’s famous for its colorful homes and for being the home of renowned poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda. It’s also connected to Viña del Mar, where you'll find some of Chile's top beaches. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with excellent architecture and many things to discover.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

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The Galápagos Islands are perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can learn about the archipelago's unique biodiversity, go scuba diving, lounge on beaches, or embark on a multi-island cruise. You might also swim with sea lions or hang out with giant turtles.

Easter Island, Chile

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Easter Island is a Chilean territory in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean. It’s known for the nearly 900 stone statues of human figures, called moai , that you'll find here. The statues are believed to have been created over time, from the 11th century to some time in the 17th century. From Santiago, it’s about a 5.5-hour flight to reach the island.

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Rob Ganley | 05 June 2014

Travelling the world in a camper van.

You don’t have to be a hippy to hit the road in a camper – there are few better ways to see the world, and here's how to get started

While exploring America’s mother road – Route 66 – in a campervan, I found myself lost in Bryce Canyon National Park late at night. Tired, I pulled over and wild camped, the big advantage of driving your own ‘hotel’. The next morning I realised I wasn’t far from a 2,000m-high lookout – at which I arrived, bleary-eyed, at sunrise, completely unprepared for the landscape spread out before me.

From my randomly found vantage point I watched the day break over a 30km-long series of bizarre amphitheatres and pinnacles, all rich-reds and yellow-oranges; the kind of image that burns into your memory. And it was a fluke made possible only by travelling in a campervan.Going to the Sun road 

The USA is made for campervanning. Other countries can be less hospitable, but still doable to those with a van and a spirit of adventure. The open road lures campervanners. Speak to any camper owner and the sentiment is much the same: these vehicles give you the freedom to go where you want when you want, knowing you’ve got a comfy bed waiting for you at the end of the night.

This freedom also means you’re not held to ransom by outrageous prices for a cuppa at a tourist spot, and you won’t ever be caught short in a public place. Plus, campers carry all the facilities you need to live ‘off-grid’, away from mains electricity and water supplies. But where should you go on your campervan adventure?

New Zealand

Nature pulls out all the stops right outside your window – a conveyor belt of peaks, beaches, fiords and glaciers

New Zealand’s landscape changes constantly. You can be driving through a valley, with mountains soaring either side, then round the corner to find a wild coastline or the tip of a glacier field. That’s the beauty of New Zealand – it crams a world of drama into its small proportions.

The joy of exploring by camper is that, if you like an area, you can stay the night: local law permits you to free camp as long as you’re at least 15km from the nearest large town and off the public highway.

The winter months (Jun-Aug) are a great time to see New Zealand in all its elemental glory, when waterfalls cascade off the mountains and the seas are still crowded with whales. Avoid peak season (Jan-Mar) and you’ll have the roads pretty much to yourself.

Best drives

Te Anau to Milford Sound Drive: through beech trees into the golden meadows of Fiordland National Park, before winding down to the Sound. A simply stunning route.

Coromandel Peninsula: The region that extends from Waihi in the south to Port Jackson in the north is a superb, forested mountain drive.

Essential reading

Although the country's road networks are great, some of NZ's best bits require a little leg work to reach. Get off the road and onto a bike: you'll find a vast network of cycling routes , for every ability. Perfect for exploring where four wheels simply can't go...

Live the dream

Rental information is similar in New Zealand and Australia, so this section applies to both countries. For convenient one-way trips, rent from a multi-depot firm which has rental locations in most of the major towns. This is particularly important for long trips in New Zealand – the inter-island ferry is expensive so you want to avoid making the crossing twice if possible.

Britz offers seven camper types, ranging from the simple, two-berth VW Rookie, to six-berth motorhomes with fridge, stove, shower and toilet. For serious off-roading you can hire Toyota Land Cruiser-based 4WD vans.

Drive where scale is everything – never-ending horizons, big skies and the longest open roads ever

Australia is vast. In the Outback you can drive all day and not see a soul, an absolute dream for self-sufficient campervanners and perfect for off-road desert adventures. But at its edges things aren’t so extreme – a varied and unique mix of reef-meets-rainforest, long sandy coasts, vibrant cities and fascinating hinterlands, well set up for vanning exploration.

Watch out for road trains, though – these trailer-towing behemoths can be over 35m long. They churn up a lot of dust, and overtaking them takes time. There’s significant (if fascinating) wildlife to avoid too – many rental campers will be fitted with bull bars to protect against roaming cattle and kangaroos.

Adelaide to Melbourne: Includes one of the greatest drives in the world: the Great Ocean Road.

Fraser Island: Spend days wildlife-spotting and nights around the campfire. Also, 4WD vanners will love nipping up and down the massive golden beaches.

Cape York’s Overland Telegraph Track: A favourite of serious off-road enthusiasts; includes a wilderness peninsula of tropical forest and savannah, only suitable for hardy 4WDs in the dry season (May-Oct).

It's easy to dismiss rural Australia as an empty, barren environment. Yes, it's stark, but there's plenty of character off those razor-straight roads. Meet the Aborigines of the Red Centre's Pit Lands , just south of Uluru, or follow Simon Reeve's advice on unearthing Australia's greatest surprises ... 

South America

Wild routes for intrepid vanners

Planning a camper trip in South America is more an art than a science. Work out what you want to see and plan a rough route around that and the seasons – remain flexible and you’ll be rewarded with real adventure.

From barren wilderness, stunning mountains and vast plateaus to coastal roads passing oceans busy with penguins and whales, this is a continent ripe for exploring. Argentina is perhaps the most camper-friendly country in the region, thanks to its well-developed highway network, its national parks and its wealth of commercial campsites with electric hook-up.

To Tierra del Fuego: Journeys down both the west and east coasts of Argentina to the very tip of South America are spectacular, with some unsealed road surfaces making 4WD vehicles popular.

The Lake District: Spanning both Chile and Argentina, this mass of waterways offers spectacular driving on good roads.

The pampas: Just south of Buenos Aires, these wild grasslands, full of birds, offer fabulous long drives.

The list of must-dos for South America is never-ending, so take inspiration from Alistair Humphreys' top-10 destinations and start planning from there... Of course, while you're in this neck of the woods it'd be rude not to experience life at high altitude: head to the hills of northern Argentina, and tackle the 'Highest road in the Americas' . It's breathtaking stuff.

There are a few well-established rental companies. Buenos Aires-based Ruta Sur hires out vehicles in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay.

Gaibu has six rental depots in Argentina. It offers dismountable-type campers that fit onto the back of 4WD trucks, and a range of campers from small two-berths up to five-berth motorhomes.

Play ‘join the dots’ between glittering lakes and snowy peaks

Canada’s vast and varying wilderness makes it perfect territory for an extended camper tour. Most vanners point their wheels at the dramatic Rockies and the Great Lakes, but along the way are fabulous stretches of forest, rippling wheat fields and unique wildlife – elk, caribou and maybe even a grizzly or two.

The Alaskan Highway: Connecting the continental US with Alaska across gold-rush Canada, this is an absolute must for the barren wilderness experience.

The Yellowhead Highway: Drive along Highway 16 into the stunning Wells Gray Provincial Park, where you can camp overnight and then visit the awesome Icefields Parkway to visit the Athabasca Glacier.

Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99): Head out from Vancouver along the coastal mountain region of British Columbia.

Want to get off the beaten track? Try tracing the St Lawrence River from Quebec to the coast , to spy beluga whales and mystical forests. Or, if you fancy a break from the road, try an Arctic cruise to meet Inuit locals, as well as polar bears and ice bergs...

The home of the campervan experience – with a wealth of classic routes to choose from

No country is better set up for exploring by camper – or RV (recreational vehicle), as they’re locally known – than the good old US of A. With its breadth of landscapes – from rolling plains to epic mountains – tiny towns, superb road networks and historically cheap fuel (though it’s getting pricier), it’s a campervanning paradise. The vast national parks are often busy with RVers in high season, but book in advance or off-peak and enjoy your own slice of this uniquely American way of life.

Big Sur, California: The quintessential winding coastal road, dotted with all-American diners overlooking the crashing ocean.

Crater Lake Rim Drive, Oregon: This 53km trail skirts the deep-blue caldera of Crater Lake NP.

Badlands Loop Road, South Dakota: Drive through wildlife- and fossil-filled prairie.

Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana: This National Historic Landmark is an 80km stretch of glorious vistas in Glacier National Park. (Your ride can't be larger than 21ft long, 8ft wide and 10ft tall for this drive, though.)

There's so much road to cover, it's easy to feel overwhelmed - so make sure you do your planning first. Heed Lucy Pearson's hard-won tips for planning the great American road trip , or plot an adventure on the USA's little-driven roads . Yes, some roads are (almost) traffic free, and they're perfect for road trips!

This section covers rental information for both the US and Canada. Cruise America/Canada ( cruiseamerica.com ; cruisecanada.com ) is one of the best-established multi-depot RV rental and sales firms.

Glide through a string of different countries, with history on every street corner and spectacular scenery

Western Europe is well geared up for independent campervanning. You can zip quickly and easily across national borders, and take in the tiny, out-of-the-way villages and scenery that organised tours don’t have time for.

Eastern Europe is a different matter – it’s not used to campervan traffic and roads can be in poor condition. You may feel quite conspicuous in your camper, but the rewards are offbeat stretches where you have the road to yourself.

Helsinki to the Arctic Circle: Tree-lined roads turn into Arctic tundra, a silent wilderness spotted with reindeer.

Highway One, Iceland: The country’s only highway loops dramatically past all the main attractions.

Romantic Road, Germany: A well-travelled (don’t do this in peak season) but beautiful route through medieval towns and past fairytale castles.

Amalfi Coast, Italy: Out of season, this rugged, Unesco-listed shoreline is one of the most stunning drives in the world. Too passé? Try the lesser-visited Adriatic coast instead.

Short on time? See Tom Hawker's account of driving the Fairytale Route in Germany , which threads though the forests that inspired the Brothers Grimm to pen their infamous stories. Liz Edwards has a similarly enchanting time in northern Italy's South Tyrol , where alpine pastures meet snowy peaks. For an island escape, follow in the footsteps of Will Gray on a jaunt around Norway's Lofoten Islands .

For regional listings of UK camper hire firms try Motorhome Facts . McRent is one of the best multi-country rental firms, with depots in Germany, France, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.

Hiring in the UK allows you to take all your own equipment (bedding, bikes etc) plus, for short ferry crossings, you pay for the vehicle rather than per person. However, if it’s just the two of you, a cheap return flight will save you time and money (on fuel and ferry crossings), plus you’ll be renting a left-hand drive, better suited to mainland Europe.

With a bit of planning you can head off the tourist trail and break out on your own four wheels

Asia is the least-charted territory for overland camper travel, although a few countries are beginning to wake up to the possibilities. Once you’ve wrestled with the red tape of visa applications though, it’s epic territory, and doing it by campervan means you’ll reach areas untouched by public transport, including the Himalaya, wild China and the enigmatic 'Stans.

The Karakoram Highway – Pakistan to the Chinese border: The road is at 4,000m, hemmed in by 8,000m peaks.

China into Tibet: Spectacularly beautiful and, doing it in a camper, you can stop whenever you want.

The Silk Road: Still a pilgrimage for some brave campervanners. The northern route cuts through the Chinese province of Gansu and splits into three further routes, two of them going around the Taklamakan Desert, and the other going north through the mountains into Kazakhstan.

Perhaps the most high-profile 'route' through Asia is the Mongol Rally, which sees teams race from Europe to Mongolia in cars that most people wouldn't venture to the shops in. We chatted to founder Tom Morgan , and Wanderlust's Peter Moore signed up for a stint with team Genghis Carnage: read all about his adventures here ... If a clapped-out little car can do it, maybe a campervan could too?

An extended trip through Asia is likely to take months, and is best done in the company of other similar campers. With this in mind, you’ll probably need to buy a camper; a 4WD is preferable for the uneven roads you’re bound to encounter. Expect to wild camp too – commercial campsites are few and far between.

Plan well – take into account the seasons and weather, and ask for advice from someone who’s been before – visit the Silk Route Motorcaravan Network , which specialises in overlanding by motorhome.

China is beginning to offer RV rental. However, at the moment rental companies insist on you hiring a driver too. One such company is China Exploration . Rental vehicles include rugged 4WD campers and European-style A-class motorhomes. Also, check out rvingchina.com .

Southern Africa

Watch elephants lollop and whales breach from your van window

Southern Africa’s popularity as a motorhome destination has boomed in recent years – South Africa is well set up, while neighbouring Namibia and Botswana offer more rugged adventure. This is perhaps the ultimate voyage into the great outdoors: drive amid shifting sands, big cats, wild coasts and pan-flat plains that go uninterrupted as far as the eye can see.

Garden Route, South Africa: Classic African bush, desert, beaches and mountain passes, plus great national parks.

The Ocean Road to Cape Agulhas, South Africa: Where oceans collide at the southernmost point of Africa – spectacular.

Etosha National Park, Namibia: Its waterholes ensure some of the best self-drive game-viewing anywhere in the world.

Namibian wilderness: With surprisingly good roads, you can drive through epic desert scenery with vast skies and biblical horizons; try the Namib Desert and Damaraland.

Botswana: Visit in winter (June to September) for sublime game-viewing and possibly the best-value way to see the country – many of the smaller reserves are open to self-drivers, though you’ll need a 4WD to cope with the terrain.

Check out our guide to self-driving in South Africa : it's the perfect destination for first-time campervanners. If you're up for something bigger, Lizzie Matthews recommends you try Nairobi to Cape Town , perhaps Africa's most iconic overland route, but one which will give even seasoned adventurists the buzz they crave...

Most of South Africa is fine for 2WD campers. For Namibia and Botswana you’re better off in a 4WD camper if you want to get off the beaten track. The big rental players are Maui and Britz.

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The Ultimate Guide To Driving The Pan-American Highway

The scenic Pan-American Highway is the longest road in the world stretching around 15,000 miles from Alaska in North America all the way down to Argentina in South America.

When we finally ditched our comfortable lives in LA and set out on a journey of a lifetime to travel across the Pan-American Highway for 15 months, we had no idea what to expect.

We learned so much along the way about things that can help make this trip easy ( and things that can go horribly wrong ).

Our Pan American Highway guide is here to help you plan an epic road trip and answer any questions you may have – from our personal experience!

If you are thinking about driving the famous Pan-American Highway, here are some tips and things that you should know before heading out on the Pan-American road trip:

Pan-American Route & Map

How long does it take, how much does it cost, crossing the darien gap, best vehicle for pan-american, do you need a 4×4, highlights of the trip, pan-american dangers, what to bring, car insurance, currency & credit cards, must-have phone apps, cell service, traveling with pets, other pan american highway tips.

The Pan-American route is a network of roads that start in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, and from there travel south through both North America and South America until its ending point in Ushuaia, Argentina. It’s known as the longest road in the world because it connects two continents north to south.

The Pan-American Highway is approximately 15,000 miles long and passes through 14 countries along the way.

In North America, the Pan-American Highway passes through : the US , Canada , Mexico , Guatemala , El Salvador , Honduras , Nicaragua , Costa Rica , and Panama .

In South America, the Pan-American Highway passes through: Colombia , Ecuador , Peru , Chile, and Argentina .

Although the actual Pan-American route mapped out is around 15,000 miles long, nobody does the exact route without venturing into many detours and side roads. On average, most people end up driving around 30,000 miles during their Pan-American road trip.

In fact, during our trip across the Americas, we spent very little time driving the actual Pan-American Highway because most of the time we were crisscrossing into various attractions along the way. Some of those side destinations often include Belize in Central America and Bolivia in South America.

While some people try to start off their Pan-American road trip in Alaska, it’s so remote and far out of the way that most people start their trip in Canada or the US .

When we set out to venture down the Pan-American highway, we started off in California. We had already spent considerable time exploring Canada and US and we wanted to venture into some new countries starting with Mexico.

A trip across the Pan-American highway can really take as long as you have time ( or money ) for it. Most people that we met traveling along the Pan-American highway do it anywhere from 9 months to 2 years. We ended up spending 15 months on the road traveling from California to Southern Argentina.

If you are short on time , it’s best to plan the route ahead of time and focus on seeing the main highlights. On the other hand, if you have all the time in the world, you’ll probably find yourself venturing into lesser-known areas and going more “off the beaten path”.

We tried to take it slow and see everything under the sun during the first 9 months of our trip but traveling in this style started wearing on us after a while . We felt like we spent more time “living” in these countries and trying to stretch every last penny than seeing all of the best highlights and enjoying the destinations like we would have if we were on a vacation.

When we got to South America, we switched up our approach and only traveled to the main highlights. It worked better for us since we spent less time exhausting ourselves driving to random little towns and we spent more time exploring the top locations.

Again, this just depends on your travel style . We just wanted to see all the top highlights and sooner than later return back home to our old lives in the US.

The cost of driving the Pan-American Highway is highly dependent on your comfort level while traveling. While we try to travel pretty cheaply, we always leave a little room and budget to splurge on things that we love ( like cheese and wine ).

On average, we spent around $2200 in travel expenses per month between the both of us. The biggest expense for us is typically food followed closely by gas.

We cook most of the meals in our campervan and seldom splurge on restaurants but we also don’t eat ramen noodles like college kids. Eating healthy and yummy food to us is a priority but that often comes with a steep price.

Since we travel in a van we rarely pay for campsites or hotels , only on special occasions when we feel like taking a break from van life or when our families come to visit.

The biggest one-off expense of the Pan-American highway for us was shipping our van across the Darien Gap which cost us $1100.

The most expensive single activity of this entire trip was visiting Machu Picchu in Peru. The cost to visit the Machu Picchu ruins is around $250 per person covering a train ticket, a bus ticket, and an entry ticket to get into the ruins. The good news is that we found a cheap workaround from a back entrance that can save you a lot of money. To read more on that check out our Machu Picchu Travel Guide here .

Read Next: VAN LIFE – How Much Does It Really Cost?

Although the Pan-American highway is known as the longest road in the world, there is a section between Panama and Colombia that is not drivable . This section is called The Darien Gap .

For environmental and political reasons, visitors are not allowed to travel into this section. The only way to get your car across the Darien Gap is on a ship. This ship typically takes a few days to get your car across from Panama into Colombia ( or vice versa ) and costs anywhere from $1000 to a few thousand depending on your car size.

There are a few ways to ship a car across the Darien Gap: RORO (roll on/roll off), container, and LOLO (lift on/lift off).

We chose to go with a container because it’s the most secure way to ship. We heard a lot of theft happens during the RORO shipping since you have to give your keys to the port staff and the cars are left unattended.

When you choose container shipping, you drive your own car into a container that gets sealed before getting loaded on a ship. You get to keep the keys and the car is completely locked up until you go to pick it up on the arriving side.

If you decide to ship in a container, first you will need to find a shipping partner to share a container with in order to split the cost in half. We used the Pan-American Travelers Association Facebook group and Container Buddies to see if anyone was shipping at the same time as us. We ended up shipping in a 40 ft High Cube container with another car and paid around $1100 each.

Once you find a shipping partner you will need to arrange a shipping agent who will coordinate everything for you . We shipped our van from Panama City to Cartagena and the two main agents for this route are Boris Jaramillo and Tea Kalalback.

We had originally contacted Tea and everything seemed ready to go when last minute she emailed us saying that we did NOT have a spot on the ship and we ended up losing the non-refundable flights that we had booked from Panama to Colombia.

We then contacted Boris with Ever Logistics and he was super helpful and got us a spot on the next outgoing boat a few days later. His contact email is [email protected].

Passengers are not allowed on this ship so you will need to arrange a flight into Colombia and a hotel while your car ships across. Once your car arrives in Cartagena, you will need to go down to the dock in Cartagena and get it out. This requires 2 days of running around Cartagena to pay various fees and get paperwork signed. 

You don’t need an agent on the Colombia side, just a lot of patience while you run around the city getting paperwork done.

You May Also Like: 50 Van Life Tips For Living On The Road

During our trip along the Pan-American Highway, we met people traveling in all types of vehicles – small sedans, SUVs, motorcycles, vans, trucks with pop-up tents, huge motorhomes, bikes, Unimogs, old and new, you name it . There really is no best vehicle and it really just depends on your travel style and personal comfort level .

We had originally planned to do this trip in our Honda Element SUV. We even converted our Honda Element by adding a bed, solar shower, fan, and fridge. But after a trial month of traveling through the US and Canada, we realized that it was just too tight and crammed for us to enjoy a long-term trip.

Instead, we got a Promaster van and spent 3 months converting it into a campervan . It has made our traveling so much more comfortable and we rarely splurge on hostels or Airbnb’s, saving us a ton of money.

Having a midsize van on this trip also helps us stealth camp just about anywhere. It’s especially helpful in cities where the cops are a little stricter about camping on the streets. Most people just think we’re a working van.

Many people choose to go with smaller vehicles that may be more nimble or get better fuel mileage, but you’re likely to end up spending just as much in monthly expenses since you will need to pay for campsites, hostels, hotels, and Airbnb’s more often.

If you’re worried about having car issues and not finding parts, you might want to look for cars that are sold throughout Latin America . These would include any car or SUV sold by Kia or Hyundai, Ford Explorer, Mercedes Sprinter, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota 4Runner, or Jeep Wrangler.

There are many others sold in North America that are also sold in Latin America, like Toyota Land Cruiser, Ram Promaster (Fiat Ducato/Citroen Relay/Peugeot Boxer/Renault Master), Land Rover Discovery, and Mitsubishi Montero, to name a few, but all of these are sold in North America with gasoline engines whereas in Latin America they are only sold with diesel engines. If something goes wrong and you have to find parts for the engine/tranny of these cars, you’re probably going to have to ship the parts in from another country ( speaking from our personal experience ).

If you have a right-hand drive vehicle, note that you may have some difficulty traveling through Central America, especially in Costa Rica. It is illegal to drive RHD vehicles in Costa Rica so many people end up shipping their vans from Guatemala into Colombia, skipping most of Central America for this reason.

A lot of people think that you need a 4×4 van to do this trip. Although there are roads along the Pan-American highway where having a 4×4 is helpful, it is not a necessity .

Our Promaster van is a front-wheel drive. We have driven across some of the most rugged roads in Guatemala and through the sketchiest mountain passes in Peru with no issues.

We did get stuck in a swamp once and had to get pulled out… but that was 100% our own fault .

Instead, what’s really essential in choosing the right vehicle for the Pan-American Highway is getting one that has high clearance, weighs as little as possible, has a good set of all-terrain tires, and isn’t oversized . This combination will get you to 90-95% of the places you want to go.

We’ve seen some really cool 4x4s that can’t go off the paved roads because they’re so overloaded and top-heavy. We’ve also seen many Unimogs that can’t go off the main highways because they don’t fit in any of the side roads or campgrounds, so having a 4×4 doesn’t always help.

Personally, we find it almost impossible to provide one single answer when someone asks us what our favorite country or place has been on this trip. However, there certainly are some places that stand out more than others. Here are some of our top highlights from 15 months of traveling along the Pan-American highway .

We started our trip in Mexico and our plan was to spend 2 months there, at the most. After realizing how much cool stuff there is to see and do, we threw that plan out the window and we ended up spending 5 months traveling through all of Mexico.

We swam in turquoise waterfalls in La Huasteca Potosina , snorkeled in underground cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula , and drove through remote mountain roads to get to some unreal hillside thermal pools , all for only a few bucks each at the most. Thinking of countries that left a lasting impression on us, Mexico is definitely on top of that list.

Central America

After leaving Mexico we ventured into Belize which offers some of the best snorkeling in the world. Although Belize technically is not part of the Pan-American Highway, we just had to visit it.   

Our main mission in Belize was to find the top snorkeling sites. While Caye Caulker is the “go to” fun party island that offers tours to some really amazing snorkeling sites ( and unlimited rum after ), our personal favorite was Silk Caye, a tiny island off the southern coast in Belize. Here we swam with sharks, eagle rays, octopus, and other incredible sea creatures for half the price and half the crowds.

We continued along into Guatemala , one of Joel’s favorite locations. Guatemala is one of the least developed countries in Central America which means rugged jungle adventures, erupting volcanoes, and remote pyramids along with some of the friendliest people we’ve met on this journey. Guatemala is also known for beautiful markets filled with colorful textiles.   We have 5 blankets to prove it.

Another one of our favorites was Costa Rica . Costa Rica is known for its beaches, surfing and some unreal wildlife that looks like a scene from The Jungle Book come alive. While we certainly enjoyed searching for waterfalls in the jungle, our favorite part was seeing all the monkeys, sloths, and macaw birds along the trails.

Overall we loved Central America , but at the same time, the heat and humidity were making sleeping and cooking in our van almost impossible. In our opinion, this is a region that’s best explored in short traditional vacations while going on adventures during the day and recharging at a hotel pool or room at night.  

South America

After crossing into South America, we didn’t really know what to expect of Colombia (it probably didn’t help that we just finished watching Narcos).

Colombia turned out to be one of the most diverse South American destinations with colorful colonial towns, lots of history, culture, amazing coffee, and unique adventures. After spending 2 months traveling through Colombia, here are 15 of our top Colombia destinations that we highly recommend for Overlanding .

One of my personal favorites of our time in South America was Peru ( okay, so maybe I DO have a favorite after all ). Besides visiting the world-famous Machu Picchu ruins , Peru is home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, incredible mountain hikes, and a cool oasis city Huacachina hidden between giant sand dunes in the Peruvian desert.

Last ( but not least ) there is the Carretera Austral Highway in Chile , the southern region of the continent. Known for turquoise blue lakes, unique caves, and endless glaciers I couldn’t think of a better way to finish up a trip through the Americas .

We could really go on forever sharing all about our favorite Pan-American destinations, but if you want to read more about our trip highlights, check out our Destinations page here .

This is one of the topics that we get asked about the most and something that our friends and family were really concerned about when we started the trip.

And I’m not gonna lie… we were pretty nervous too .

While I can’t speak for everyone because sometimes unfortunate things happen, during our 15 months of traveling the Pan-American highway we had no major issues and we felt relatively safe.

One of the worst things that happened to us was getting my backpack stolen in Colombia at a Starbucks ( from all places ) while I was working on my laptop and not paying attention.

There are some areas, however, that are known to be more prone to crime along the Pan-American highway and travelers should use more caution while driving through:

• Chiapas, Mexico . We always hear about the crime issues in Mexico due to the drug cartels, but neither we nor any of the hundreds of people we know who went through Mexico ever encountered an issue with cartel violence. Instead, it’s Chiapas, the southernmost state in Mexico, where people have the most issues. This region has long been anti-government, anti-establishment, very poor, and many of the villages thrive on violently extorting money from anybody who passes through. We were held up by angry mobs demanding money for driving on the roads and asked for a “security payment” by an armed “neighborhood watch”. Our friends had their tires slashed and chased by locals demanding money at the threat of violence, and another overlander was attacked with wooden boards with nails. And the saddest of all, two European bikers were found dead with their belongings missing while passing through this region. The cops and military don’t really go into this area so it’s sort of the Wild West down there.
• Peru Coast . We heard there are a lot of car break-ins, armed robberies, and well-organized scams along the Peruvian coast. It’s also one of the poorest areas that we saw along this trip so people are a bit more desperate. While traveling along the Peruvian coast we watched for any warnings left on the iOverlander app and we never left the van completely unattended. We personally had no issues but unfortunately, our friends were not so lucky and had a break into their van and had all of their electronics stolen.
• Costa Rica . This one was really surprising since Costa Rica is basically the 51 st state of the US these days, but Costa Rica is currently a hot spot for thieves and car break-ins. There are thousands of American tourists around every corner, and locals know that tourists carry nice, often expensive things in their cars as they move around the country. Many of the people we know had their cars broken into in Costa Rica, but they weren’t always necessarily only after nice things – our friend’s well-used swimming shorts were stolen right off his side mirror as he made dinner just a few feet away.
• Northern South America . From Colombia through the northern metros of Argentina and Chile, pickpocketing and petty theft are very common in cities. This is why you’ll see many people walking with their backpacks worn on their chest, and sitting at coffee shops with their bags held under their arms. While traveling in this area, just try not to walk on empty streets at night and never put anything into pockets that can’t be zipped or closed somehow. Since we spent very little time in the cities of South America and opted instead for the mountains and more remote areas, we mostly avoided these issues.

Most people who start the Pan-American road trip will pack their cars to the max with emergency and “just in case” items but in reality, you don’t need that much .

Personally, we don’t have a whole lot of stuff to begin with and we also like to keep our living space uncluttered. We decided to only bring the bare necessities which helped us keep the van light for better gas mileage.

Along with everyday necessities like clothing and kitchen utensils, here are some things that you should bring along on the Pan-American road trip :

• Two water tanks . We keep one water tank for filtered drinking water and one for everything else like doing dishes and brushing our teeth that we fill up at gas stations. You could use filtered water for everything but it would be quite costly.
• One spare tire . We actually didn’t even use our spare tire once during our 15 months of driving down the PanAm road so you don’t need more than one.
• Basic tools . Flat/Phillips screwdrivers , an adjustable wrench , duct tape , a flashlight , and pliers – the bare minimum in case you break down in the middle of nowhere. Otherwise, mechanics are everywhere and other overlanders usually carry a ton of tools in case you need to borrow one.
• Fire extinguisher . If you have a stove in your vehicle, you’ll be cooking in small quarters or outside and things can easily tip over and catch on fire. Our friends’ stove actually caught on fire but they were able to safely toss it out and put the fire out before it did any damage. Better to be prepared and keep a small fire extinguisher at hand reach.
• Tow strap . In case you push the limits of your car like we constantly do and need someone to pull you out. They’re super cheap and don’t take up much room.
• Headlamp . 95% of the time, we’re sleeping in places that don’t have much light. Look for one that is dimmable and preferably one that has a red light setting, which helps keep your night vision and doesn’t travel as far so you can be more incognito.

Read More: 85 Van Life Essentials That You Should Be Packing

There are a few countries along the Pan-American highway that require vehicle insurance for international drivers.

In North America, the countries requiring car insurance are: Canada, the US, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama .

US and Canada have reciprocal car insurance laws so if you have insurance in either country, you can use it in the other as well.

In South America, the countries requiring car insurance are: Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina .

In the US, Mexico, and Chile we purchased our vehicle insurance online, but most of the time you can purchase car insurance right at the border. Peru was the only country where we had to cross the border and drive into the next town to purchase it.

Related Post: DIY Promaster Campervan Conversion Guide

Most of the small businesses in Central and South America operate on a cash basis so for this trip, it’s very important to have a good debit card that won’t charge you crazy ATM fees . We love the Schwab Debit Card because it is free, charges no overseas withdrawal fees, and refunds any ATM fees that we were charged by other banks at the end of the month.

The Schwab Debit card comes with the Schwab Bank High Yield Investor Checking Account – you can read more about it on the Schwab website.

At some ATMs we have been charged up to a $10 fee to take out the money in a single transaction. Getting this money back at the end of the month has been pretty sweet.

For this trip, you will also need a VISA credit card. Most businesses in Central & South America only accept VISA or Mastercard , but some countries like Peru only accept VISA (when they accept credit cards at all).

We really couldn’t have done this trip without our favorite phone app iOverlander . For us, this app was a total lifesaver.

The iOverlander app was created by other Pan-American overlanders as a place to note all the best campsites, attractions, gas stations, laundry spots, and other useful places while traveling. Over the years it has grown extremely popular and is based solely on reviews left by other travelers. iOverlander is our go-to source to find cheap (or free) camping spots and anything else we may need along the way.

There are also a couple of map apps that can make life on the road so much easier. Google Maps is great because the roads are pretty up-to-date, it gives you accurate driving time estimates, and you can download the map sections ahead of time to use when you’re offline. We also like using the Maps. me app which is amazing for finding hiking trails and figuring out their distance and elevation but is not so great for driving because it likes to give extremely optimistic time estimates and can sometimes lead you down dirt roads that shouldn’t even be on the map.

We also recently found out about the app WiFi Map . WiFi Map lists tons of open WiFi networks in the surrounding areas and for someone like me who works a lot online, this app is super helpful.

A few years ago I signed up for Google’s Project Fi cell phone service and it has been a total game changer for traveling. Instead of purchasing local cell phone chips in each new country, Google Fi automatically connects your cell phone to the local cell providers so you never lose reception while traveling, all at full LTE when available.

We pay around $80 per month for Google Fi service that includes “unlimited” data up to 15 GB for the two of us. The data is still unlimited after 15 GB but it’s much slower.

We use just about all of 15 GB of available data every month. But we also work online, stream shows and slightly obsess over Instagram so most people tend to use a lot less than that. It actually says on their website that less than 1% of users use all 15 GB of the available data so THAT makes me sort of question my life choices.

If you have a pet, you may be wondering if it’s possible to do this trip with your furry little friend.

During our trip along the Pan-American highway, we brought along our indoor cat Minka. We made some special arrangements for her in the van but overall we found that traveling with a pet through Central and South America is very easy .

It took her a couple of months to get used to being in new environments every day but now she absolutely loves it. As soon as we stop she hops out of the van, runs around a bit, eats some grass, and looks at the farm animals from the distance but mostly just naps. She has traveled through 15 countries in our van and every new place is like a new adventure for her.

Many of the people we’ve met during our Pan-American road trip travel with pets – mostly dogs, some cats, and even a couple of guinea pigs – and everyone manages just fine. There are some restrictions on dogs in many of the national parks of South America so it does limit you a tiny bit, but overall it’s not that difficult.

While most countries don’t really care that we have a cat at the border crossings, some countries are tougher than others. The hardest countries for crossing with pets are Belize, Panama, Colombia, and Chile, where they want some kind of paperwork to be done before entering and/or charge a fee for entering with a pet.

Before crossing any borders check iOverlander for any requirements. All of the information in iOverlander gets constantly updated by other travelers so this has been our best resource for border crossings with pets.

I also joined a Facebook group called Animal Travelers specifically created for people who travel with pets. It’s a great place to ask questions about traveling with pets, especially for flying and specific border crossings.

Read Next: 10 Tips & Tricks To Get Ready For Van Life With A Cat

Here are a few tips that we learned ( sometimes the hard way ) that can really help make life easier on this trip:

• Make copies of car registration, passports, driver’s licenses , and any other important documents before tucking them away somewhere safe. Also, make sure to scan and keep a backup online like on Google Drive.
• Apply for an extra license before leaving . This was a big one for us that we easily overlooked. After my wallet was stolen in Colombia and Joel lost his wallet in Ecuador, we were stuck without driver’s licenses which we needed to drive, pay for groceries, and cross borders. We didn’t have any extras so we ended up making laminated copies out of the scans that we had backed up. Thankfully they’ve worked so far at every border and checkpoint!
• Join the Pan-American Travelers Association Facebook Group . This is a public group with thousands of members who are traveling the Pan-American highway, have done it in the past, or plan to do it. If we have any concerns or questions that we can’t find answers to anywhere else, a lot of times we find them by searching this group or by posting a question in it.

The idea of traveling in a car through 14+ foreign countries can seem pretty intimidating ( at least it did for us ), but during our trip, we met so many amazing travelers and overlanders who helped us out with questions and tips along the way.

We hope this guide can do the same for you but if we didn’t cover something fully or if you still have any questions on traveling the Pan-American highway, don’t hesitate to ask us in the comments below!  

Looking for more van life inspiration? Here are a few other helpful resources and blog posts that you may like:

• 16 Best Sprinter Conversions For Van Life
• 30 Must-Have Campervan Accessories For Van Life
• 10 Amazing Ford Transit Conversions For Inspiration
• How To Make Money While Living In A Van
• The Ultimate Solo Female Van Life Guide

This post is written by Laura Sausina. Hi, I’m the founder of the Fun Life Crisis travel blog and I’ve been traveling full-time for the past 7 years. Here I share my experiences and tips to help 100,000 people a month plan their adventures around the world! Read more about me here .

Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission when you book through these links which helps support this blog! Thank you!

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134 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide To Driving The Pan-American Highway”

Very helpful, thank you. I’m a 58 year old (spiritually about 28!) Brit going to do the journey. No mention of buying US 3rd party insurance here though, any ideas? Thanks Andy

Personally, we have not used travel insurance and have gotten pretty lucky with never having any issues on our travels so far. But it is something that I am looking info for future travels and I have heard that the World Nomad insurance is a pretty popular choice. Here is a link to their UK website: https://www.worldnomads.co.uk/

Cheers, Laura & Joel

3rd party insurance is compulsory in US and most South American countries, I believe, isn’t it ?

Hey Andy, sorry I misread your comment. I thought you were asking about travel health insurance.

In US it’s easy to get car insurance as long as the car is registered in the US. There are tons of companies offering car insurance online such as Geiko, AAA, Progressive, State Farm, All State, Liberty Mutual etc.

In North America, the countries requiring car insurance are: Canada, US, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama. In South America, the countries requiring car insurance are: Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina.

In the US, Mexico, and Chile we purchased our vehicle insurance online, but most of the time you can purchase the car insurance right at the border. Peru was the only country where we had to cross the border and drive into the next town to purchase it.

Hope this helps clarify things.

Hello! First of all, thanks a lot for this great info! It’s truly appreciated and useful. I’m a 30-year-old Argentine national but have lived in Florida for 19 years. I’m planning to tackle this road next year. I have the following questions, any info would be greatly appreciated!

1. Do you think is doable in 3-4 months starting from Florida? I have time constraints due to work/studies.

2. How much did it cost to ship the car from Ushuaia back home? (or perhaps from Buenos Aires or Valparaiso?)

3. Approximately how much did you spend in gas? food? paperwork/documentation?

4. How was your experience during border crossings? Was it expensive?

Thanks a lot in advance! I truly appreciate it.

1. I really don’t think you can do it in that short of time. In 3-4 months you could do the US through Panama, or part of South America, but I don’t think shipping the car to South America and back would be worth the hassle for that short of a trip. There are many overlanders selling their cars in South America for cheap after they finish their trip, maybe buying one of those and doing a few months in SA would be a good idea. 2. It all depends on the size, but from Valparaiso or BA/Montevideo to the US/Mexico, you’re looking at $2k-5k and takes a few weeks to coordinate. There are no shipping options south of that. 3. Our costs were about $1200 (Mexico) to $2500 (South America) per month for two people. This is highly dependent on where you stay, what you eat, and your fuel efficiency. We very rarely paid for places to sleep, cooked 95% of our own meals, and drove a van that got 16 mpg on average. 4. Border crossings are all over the place but usually not bad. Nicaragua was the worst by far because they were so slow, unorganized, and inspected everything, but the other ones were quick and we rarely got inspected or questioned. Usually, borders take 1-2 hours but some were as quick as 20 minutes. Having pets is probably the biggest hurdle because sometimes they want extra paperwork. Entering Mexico is the most expensive at around $100, the rest are usually free or a couple of dollars.

Hope that helps!

Nicolas have you considered shipping to Ushuania and driving back? I am from the UK and looking at riding a vespa scooter the whole route from south to north in early 2022.

There is no place to ship a vehicle south of Santiago, Chile or Buenos Aires, Argentina

Hi! Is shipping your van back to the states from Argentina best or is it easy to sell your van at the end of the trip? Thanks!!

It really depends on the vehicle, timing, and a bit of luck. For us, we tried to sell the van at a huge discount down in Argentina but couldn’t find the right buyer since it’s all about timing. I’ve heard of some people that sell their vehicles for next to nothing to avoid the shipping costs, and have known some people that paid a huge premium to get an expedition ready vehicle that was at the right place at the right time. In general, I noticed that vans were in high demand but only on the very low end of pricing, like under $5k.

Thanks for your response! Thought – what if we started in Patagonia/Argentina and tried to find a van down there to drive back north? Might be luck/timing but maybe could find someone selling in advance…? Not sure how popular the van life culture is down there / enough supply and demand. Mil gracias!

It’s pretty rare for people to sell their vehicles in Patagonia since it’s so far south and there’s so little transportation from down there. Most people sell around Santiago, Chile or Buenos Aires, Argentina since that’s where most international flights land and leave from. Buying a local vehicle with Chile or Argentina plates is super expensive because of their crazy import tax laws, so the best bet is to find another overlander who’s done with their trip.

This is what Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman did for Long Way Up. You should be able to ship a scooter or motorcycle (motorbike) in the cargo hold of an airplane.

Awee , I lived in Florida , was going through the whole process of traveling on the pan America highway , We shipped our Toyota truck in our country in Guyana and we went through Guyana interior , throughout to lethem into Brazil, , into Venezuela Columbia Ecuador Peru Chile Argentina and Brazil back into my country Guyana,Took us three months of nonstop driving, except in the night, We slept in a our truck. every night it was just me and my husband, that’for me was a life time adventure I will never forgot , the sceneries was breathtaking, there is so much to see, but we had to come back because we had four kids so so a good vehicle , know language,, and I have all your documents insurance and everything passport everything in order before traveling,,you would love the trip enjoy , it cost us around 12thousand dollars , and the year 1996 , the road driving is unbelievable ?????

Found your site and have enjoyed our reading so far. We are leaving after next year for 12-15 months like you to go to South America. Our big thing is we will have our two dogs (lab & husky) and the gap is our biggest concern right now. Can we go on any boat with our van? Flying with dogs is not an option (unless emergency). It does not have to be comfortable and we would pay extra for this want but seek beta from those who potentially have made the journey. Thoughts? Thanks for sharing

The only way to ship the car is on a cargo ship but they don’t allow passengers since they’re only for cargo. To get across the Darien Gap, you can either fly or take a sail boat that goes through the San Blas islands. We’ve heard numerous people go on those sail boats with animals, you just have to find the right captain that allows pets. What most people with pets do is get an ESA letter and fly with your pets onboard instead of in a kennel in the storage area. That’s what we did and it was really easy, you just need any ESA letter, a vet letter, and a pet document from Panama – the details of how to get that document is on iOverlander.

great article. I plan to make the drive from Costa Rica to the states. I have a vw wagon which I converted into a camper…I am not into outdoor life, however, I would like to do some sightseeing and take my time…I am retired and time is on my side. I was wondering if I can sleep in my wagon and relax….

That sounds like a very relaxing trip! We spent quite a bit of time in Central America and there is just so much to see and do. Hope you have a great time on your trip!

Always dreamed of driving through the Pan American Highway (Mexico to Argentina and then circle back from Brazil to French Guiana (Circle around the entire continent of South America). I now live in Europe, so I’m not sure when I’d be able to do it. Though I’ve already been to Peru, many other countries all over Latin America have intrigued me (Costa Rica, Panama, Belize, Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay, Chile, Argentina, Brazil). Hopefully, I’ll be able to fulfill the dream soon, but I prefer to see countries by seeing them one at a time.

hi, am looking to start this journey soon…will be travelling south to north (peru to canada/alaska) any links for insurance please?

Insurance is usually bought on-site at or near the borders at every border you’ll be crossing. The only exception is Mexico through Canada where it’s done online. For Mexico, try Baja Bound insurance. I don’t know about US & CA insurance since we’re from the US and never had to deal with that part

What kind of insurance is he talking about? Car insurance? Health insurance? I never considered insurance…

Car insurance is mandatory in many countries, most can be bought at the borders but some you need to buy online. In some countries they won’t give you a car permit at the border without it, and in some they set up police checkpoints where they check your insurance. It sounds more complicated than it is, you figure it out pretty quickly once you hit the road get a few border crossings under your belt.

Your blog is great! My boyfriend and I are saving to drive from Canada to Argentina, your posts are so helpful! Thanks

Hi Marsha Do share your experience; I am in Toronto and planning to do an Arctic to Argentina trip myself. Thanks,,, Max

Thank you so much for the information. We are saving money for this trip and we want to go when we have enough money. But because of the wet season we don’t know when it is the best time to go. How did you plan that part?

We just went whenever our van was ready. Mexico is nice in October-March, central is good in December-July, the northern part of SA is good in May-September, and the southern part of SA is good in November-March. So it depends on how long you want to go but if you want to do it in about 15 months you could start in Mexico in the fall and hit every place in their ideal time. As for the rainy season, we kept hearing about the rain in Central America but we thought it was blown way out of proportion. CA did not have a bad rainy season since it’s always hot and humid anyway. The rainy season you should really watch out for is in the northern part of SA (Colombia-Peru) where you really can’t do anything between October-April. Many roads are impassable and most hikes are closed or impossible to do.

Hi there. We have been traveling back and forth from Mexico to Canada and have made three trips. We have a 29′ RV (I want to downsize) something missing in your posts was getting an import permit for any foreign vehicles traveling into Mexico. With the RV we could get a 6 month or a 10 year permit. If you are caught without a permit they will impound your vehicle. We paid around 450 pesos for a 10 year permit. The Permits are available at most border crossings in a separate building than Customs. We are enjoying the information you have shared here. Thank you and take care.

Thank you for this bit of info but I wonder if you could clarify what a foreign vehicle really means: one registered in another country (US/CAD) I presume? Also, wouldn’t customs inform people of this import permit? From what you say, it sounds as though it’s not nearly as obvious as it should be. True?

What Peter is trying to say is that Mexico’s border is pretty relaxed and for the most part, they just let you in without really stopping you. They do this because so many people cross the border daily that they can’t stop everybody and check for vehicle permits, it’s up to the driver to stop and get the appropriate vehicle permit to drive in the country. Also, you’re allowed to drive a foreign vehicle without a permit as long as you stay within 26 km of the border. If you just cross without stopping to get the permit, then later on you’ll get to a checkpoint where they’ll ask for your vehicle permit and you’ll have to drive back to the border to get the permit. This is very different from any country south of Mexico where they don’t have these agreements in place to let people roam freely, and in those borders they make you get all the appropriate permits before crossing.

I want to travel via sub or truck from Texas to Costa Rica. Any advice is cc’d welcome and appreciated.

Do you have to go both ways, can you sell your vehicle at the south end of the trip and fly back? If people are selling their vehicle at the south end, is it possible to buy it and drive back north? thanks

Hey Cornelius,

Most people go one way and either ship or sell their vehicles at the end of the trip. We drove from the US to Chile and shipped our van back to the US when we reached the end of the Pan-American Highway.

A lot of people do end up selling their vehicles at the south end because shipping them back costs around $3000-$5000. For that you can check out the PanAmerican Travelers Association Facebook group . A lot of people post their cars for sale on there.

Cheers, Laura

I have a house in Panama and I’m planning on driving down this time what does it cost and what kind of paperwork do you need to cross ryukahr does it need to be translated in Spanish

Hey Steven,

Are you referring to the Darien Gap? It costs around $1000 to ship a van across the Darien Gap. You will need the vehicle title to arrange shipping through an agent on the Panama side.

I’ve seen a lot of mention shipping one’s vehicle FROM Darien Gap but what about in reverse? Is it the same process? And is it possible to catch a sailboat with one’s dogs (flying isn’t an option) to get back to Panama? Also, no one’s mentioned how people get around once their vehicle’s been freighted. Is it easy to rent a car for a day or so?

Yes, plenty of people do it in reverse and it’s the same process. I’ve heard of people going on sailboats with their dogs to do the Panama-Colombia crossing which would be cool since they go through the San Blas islands. We originally wanted to do this but it takes a lot of planning to coordinate the crossings just right. We did the ESA thing for our cat, nobody hassled us and pets fly free in the cabin if they’re an ESA. Cartagena is really easy to get around in a taxis, Panama is a little more difficult because things are more spread out so a rental car would help there.

How much do you have to pay at each countries border crossing to get your car across and does the paperwork needs to be translated from English to Spanish notarized

Usually, you don’t have to pay for border crossings. When you do, it’s only a couple of dollars. You can check the iOverlander app where people leave notes for each border crossing.

The paperwork can be in English, it doesn’t have to be translated into Spanish.

This is Harold and Eva 66 and 67. If we ever would travel S.America, we would like to do this with some other party with similar interests. Anyone out there ?? Greetings, Harold

Yes. We are interested Brian & Shelly [email protected]

Great post. Love the fact you stated all the important details. Thanks

Your trip struck me as “the trip of a lifetime.” Hey, I get lost in my backyard, would my car navigation work out there in the towns and main highways. You guys are fantastic inspirations. Rick

Take a look at Itchyboots’ YouTube channel. She uses a nav system everywhere (South America, Africa, the Middle East) on her motorcycle. Very inspirational!

This post is so inspiring and informative!! Thank you so much!! I’m looking forward to taking more road trips after the pandemic and would love to convert a van.

That is very good.

Thanks for your post. My wife and I are considering driving from Florida to Panama City in a 4X4 pickup with my motorcycle in the bed. Looking to be expats moving to Panama. Will we incur any problems with this? Luggage will be minimal.

In some countries you’re only allowed one vehicle per person so make sure you have the vehicles titled to both names, that way if they say anything you can just do the paperwork under the other person’s name.

Advice: If you’re traveling on a right hand drive vehicle, note that in 2018 Guatemala passed a law that made right hand drive vehicles illegal (as in Costa Rica). Should you get caught driving on the right you could get fined and your car can even be consigned by law enforcment so don’t take that chance.

I’m putting together my 1949 F1 ,with a 2003 Lincoln avaitor drivetrain, what kind of documentation is needed for the vehicle to ship to Colombia, I’m in the US right now.

You just need the car title and registration along with a driver’s license and passport. They’ll ask for Colombian car insurance but you can easily get it in Cartagena if that’s where you’re shipping to.

Hi Laura and Joel I enjoyed reading about your trans-American Highway adventure. It is so informative and current. Thank you very much. I am planning to do this big driving trip. As I am not handy with car repairs, could I ask if the car does break down esp. in SA, are there mechanics available to help with repairs? Once again, thanks Peter

There are plenty of mechanics everywhere but the big problems with breakdowns are finding parts and getting towed anywhere. Unless you drive one of the few vehicles that are sold unchanged throughout the world, you’ll likely have to ship in parts if something goes wrong. Also, our overlanding rigs are usually too big to get towed since they’re used to dealing with much smaller cars in Latin America. Lastly, if you’re in a small town or in the middle of nowhere, there’s pretty much 0% chance you’ll find either of those two things without getting to a major city first. Best thing I can say is if you’re not very familiar with your vehicle and know how to fix things, buy the newest car you can afford for the trip since that’ll give you the best chance of making it without a breakdown

I saw a reference to RHD vehicles in both the article as well as the comments. Am I missing something?

Many people drive Delicas and other cool imported 4x4s that are perfect for a trip like this and are mostly found as RHD. Many people who do the trip also come from RHD countries.

Did you carry much cash or use it in transactions. How is the gas quality?

We hid some cash in our van’s walls in case we needed it but never did. Other than that, we carried very little cash on hand and used our Schwab account to take out money from ATMs anywhere for free. We never had issues with gas quality but we have a gasoline engine, those with modern diesel engines could have issues since they don’t sell ULSD between Mexico and Chile.

2 Questions… Did your van get searched at border crossings and can you carry a weapon for protection?

Our van got searched a few times (maybe 5) but usually not very thoroughly. We did not have weapons other than knives and wouldn’t risk bringing a firearm along as it’s illegal to cross borders with them and they’re illegal in many countries.

Great story and comments! Very intrigued by the prospect of doing this trip as we’re approaching retirement and would like to do it before we’re too old. I noticed that you made no comment as to currency types used. Was the US Dollar good everywhere? Or were you making currency changes in each country you passed through. Thanks in advance for the info and safe travels in the future!

We used our credit card almost everywhere since CCs actually give you pretty good conversion rates. We just made sure to use CCs that don’t have foreign transaction fees. When we needed cash, we took out local currency from the ATMs using our Schwab account which gives us free ATM withdrawals anywhere in the world and refunds us any fees the ATM charges. We never used USD except for El Salvador, Panama, and Ecuador where the dollar is used as their national currency.

I love this! It’s a perfect starting point to plan a trip

I’m hoping to start a big South American road trip in about a year if covid has finally settled down

Any advice on buying a car when you get to SA rather than shipping one? I’m trying to decide between buying a car in the Southern US and shipping it across the Darién gap when I get there or just backpacking Mexico/Central America and then buying a car in Colombia to drive South with.

I speak Spanish reasonably well and have a few close Colombian friends in Bogota and Medellin which should help with the paper work I think.

Buying a car in South America is a great way to do it because most people finish their trip down there and don’t want to deal with the expense or hassle of shipping their vehicle back home. The problem is you have to be pretty flexible as far as timing and what kind of vehicle you buy, but if you’re flexible, you can get some great deals. For instance, we were willing to sell our van for $10k less when it was down there but we didn’t find the right buyer at the right time. There are a few facebook groups dedicated to buying/selling overland vehicles in South America, check those out as they’re the best resources. The best place to find American titled vehicles is around Santiago and Buenos Aires as most people end their trips there and there are people that will title your car in Washington without being there.

I had heard that you can’t have any liens on your vehicle before entering mexico. ie fully own it with no payments.

Is that true?

I’m not sure about Mexico, plenty of people take new cars down there and I doubt they all own their vehicles outright. I know a lot of people take their cars to Mexico with just a registration so I don’t think Mexico cares about ownership. Once you keep going south, many of the other countries ask for the title but let’s just say they don’t know what a US car title looks like or have any way of verifying whether it’s real

Hello, I am Brazilian and I am currently in the USA, I want to drive from Las Vegas to Brazil, my question is regarding the documents to cross the borders, I have a car, insurance and driver license here from the USA all in my name, but my passport is from Brazil. do you believe this is a problem?

No, won’t be a problem anywhere except for maybe in Brazil. A lot of people drive cars titled in countries other than where they’re from.

Do you have to have a drivers license in all of the countries you travel through?

For clarification, I am an US citizen. I have a Utah drivers license. Will I need to get a new license in Mexico, Peru, etc. to drive in those countries?

No, any license will work

If you’re driving then yes you’ll need a license in case you get pulled over and to get the car permit at the borders

Do you have any interest in selling your van to us for the trip?

Hey Matthew,

Yes, we are looking to sell it soon. You can email us at [email protected] to chat more.

I just wanted to thank you for sharing your grand adventure, and all the most valuable information on traveling “do’s and don’ts”.

Thank you, Mike! We’re glad that our post was helpful : )

Hi , thanks for taking all the time to share your fantastic experiences. I’m from Australia. I would start the journey in the US. can I buy a car in the US as a tourist – or do I need a residential address in my name? I encountered this in Holland : There-was-no-way I could register a car in my name unless I was properly registered in a town’s citizens register, for which I needed proof of registered house ownership or … proof of registered house rental for which the waiting lists are so long one just as well books a burial lot.

You need some kind of address to write on the registration papers and get the registration and title sent to, but don’t necessarily have to prove residency. It also depends on the state, I know many foreigners go to the state of Washington since their rules are much more relaxed whereas in Oregon they wanted me to have an Oregon driver’s license to register a car. There are people who offer a service on the panamerican travel association group on facebook where for a small fee they’ll take care of everything and you don’t even have to be there. Otherwise, you can rent a virtual mailbox in a state to use as your home address and register the vehicle there then cancel the service once you get the registration and title delivered.

I’m really interested in knowing how you handled the problem in Chiapas and the right-hand drive issue at the Costa Rica border. Thanks

Chiapas has a deep history of anti-government activities and issues, and as a result it can be kind of lawless at times. Looking back at it now, the best outcome would be to approach that area with caution, stay and park only in secure areas, and be prepared to pay the locals when they violently demand money for no reason. Travel in groups when possible and don’t let your guard down. As for Costa Rica, we don’t have right-hand drive but the common things people do to get through if you do have right-hand drive is to either 1) stop in Nicaragua and head back to ship south from Guatemala or Mexico, or 2) cross the border at night, hide the wheel with stuff, and create a dummy steering wheel on the left side, or 3) pay someone a lot of money to tow your vehicle through the entire country. In my opinion, option 1 is best because once you’ve seen the jungles of southern Mexico through Nicaragua, there’s not much else to see in Costa Rica and Panama and you’ll save yourself from the torture of the never ending heat of Central America.

Holà, looking at driving home to Canada from Costa Rica, the winds seems favourable. This plan is in its early stages so I might add that I am not rushed at all, and that I’m very much looking into networking, forums, and tips that could help over the next months. I am planning the purchase of the vehicle in Costa Rica but so far my biggest barrier in preliminary research is the Insurance situation from Mexico-North…Tips, forum links, experienced persons would be hugely appreciated. Another import question I have is: tent & bnbs, or camper? Is camping more liberating than a well planned route with safe campsites/bnbs?

(i’ve emailed you as well btw)just in case

The best forum for information and questions is the Facebook group “Panamerican Travelers Association”. Most people who are traveling the panam are part of that group so it’s a great place to get updates on traveling conditions or to just connect with others who are also on the trip. The sleeping situation is probably one of the most varied in everyone’s approach. It’s hard to reliably find places to tent camp so that would be hard to do. It’s also hard to consistently find good hotels/hostels/whatever. The more set up your are to sleep in your own vehicle comfortably with some amenities, the easier the journey without having a need to constantly plan ahead or spend half the day looking for a hotel or campsite every time you move.

Hi there, Enjoyed everything you guys posted. One thing nobody bothered to ask was since your trip was going over 12 months how did you get your renewal tags for the following year since you were out of the country? Did you have a friend with access to your mailbox which then mailed them to your current location?

Thank you for your response!

We have permanent plates from Oregon but if we didn’t then I probably would have registered the vehicle as non-operational during the entire trip. That way you don’t have to keep paying for US insurance and the DMV won’t ask for smog checks. As far as the actual paperwork and mail, we had that delivered to our parents while we were gone. And as far as tags go, nobody outside the US knows what kind of tags your plates are supposed to have so nobody will ever notice or care that your tags are expired.

Hi Joel, Thanks for responding. Is there a difference between Oregon and California (This is where my car is registered) when it comes to plate assignment? So none of the countries you guys drove in bothered you guys at all if the car was current or not on its registration? And what I mean by that when you guys crossed the border, if you were pulled over or not by the police, or especially, when you shipped you van from Panama to Colombia? Because that’s kind of risky. I know for a fact in Chile and Argentina they will expect your car to be up to date on its registration year because that comes up when you need to obtain an car insurance policy in either of those counties. If you guys made it all the way down there without a hiccup you guys were incredibly lucky. But then again you guys had backup because your tags were mailed to your parents house so in the event that something were to happen they can easily fed-ex it to you guys.

Once you venture below the US you realize that for the most part, laws are at most a guideline that very few follow. Nobody ever bothered to look closely at any documents, even Chile and Argentina. In Chile their main concern at the border is pets and food, and Argentina didn’t really care about anything including so called mandatory insurance which most overlanders buy from some guy through Whatsapp and is probably fake. The brand Ram and the vehicle Promaster don’t exist south of the US and not a single country cared, they just marked us down as a Dodge Ram pickup truck which is close enough. It’s intimidating at first when planning ahead but once you hit the road and cross a few borders it all becomes much easier.

Hi there, Three of us are thinking of taking our Sprinter Vans along the Pan-American Hwy with our motorcycles on the back to get to those out of the way places our vans won’t go. Do you know if it is impossible to ‘import’ the 2nd vehicle (motorcycle) into some countries as they only allow one vehicle per person?

Like you said, some countries only allow one vehicle per person so it would probably be doable if there were two people per van and each person had their name on at least one of the titles. The other thing would be that you’ll have to do all the paperwork twice, get double the insurances, and in some countries pay fees for each (although it’s never much). What I would probably do is take something that doesn’t fit their bill of what a “vehicle” is and it wouldn’t trigger a need for an import permit. I’m thinking moped, electric bike, pocket bike, maybe even a Honda Ruckus with the plates removed… anything that doesn’t fit their idea of what a motorcycle should look like.

Hi there. Thanks for the info. I am wondering if there are people who want to make the trip south but don’t really want to turn around and do the trip north. Is there any group…. where I might be able to find a vehicle that wants to come back north?

I’ve never heard of anyone that has done the trip both ways. Most people start at the north, head south to the end, then travel back up to Buenos Aires or Santiago and ship their car back home from there. Europeans do it in reverse order quite often, shipping to Buenos Aires, heading south, then north to Canada before shipping back to Europe. Many people decide to sell their vehicles after doing the trip one way and is a great way to get into a vehicle that’s been prepared for overlanding but are typically in immediate need of maintenance.

Don’t you need a permit to take your car into each country? For example, I know when driving to Mexico you pay a fee and then it’s refunded (partially refunded) once you return. Any insight on this? I don’t plan on returning to the US though; I’m moving to Ecaudor.

Yes, you get a permit in each country as you enter, usually called a TIP. Mexico is the only one that actually charges you, the rest are free except for some spare change to make photocopies of documents. When you leave each country, the TIP is cancelled.

How did you get the van back from Argentina!!

We shipped our van from Buenos Aires to Houston via RORO ship (roll-on, roll-off)

can make this trip with a motorhome? (Buss). because of the roads

Absolutely, lots of people do the trip in Class A RVs, converted school busses, and Unimogs. The bigger the vehicle the more restricted you are in cities and remote locations but your comfort level increases drastically. We found that a van was probably the sweet spot between between comfort and access, with anything too much bigger or smaller requiring a lot more planning ahead for sleeping arrangements or road access.

me and my girlfriend were looking to drive the South America portion of the trip with our two cats. What did you guys do with your cat if you wanted to go off for the day exploring? Did you do any hiking in Patagonia?

we’re trying to be as realistic as possible.

The cat was perfectly fine throughout the trip, in fact she actually liked it more than being at a home. At home she just hides all the time, during the trip we was always trying to explore outside the van every time we stopped and wasn’t scared at all. We always made sure we left the exhaust fan on and a window cracked if we left her. We did a lot of hiking in Patagonia and would leave her in the van with extra food and water, she was always fine. Central America was actually the toughest region for her (and us) because it’s so hot and wet so there’s little you can do to cool the car down. All of South America, outside of the northern coast, had pretty cool weather so it was easy to leave her in the car.

Hey Joel, Laura Thank you for this blog! It is very well written and touches all the necessary aspects of Pan American travel. I am thinking of making this trip from Canada to Argentina solo in a 2-DR Jeep Wrangler. Good idea? Bad Idea? How long will it take (3-6 months?) and how much will it cost in total (USD 20,000?) I was wondering if I can may be get in touch with you at a regular basis for some guidance? Max

You can do it in any vehicle including the 2-door Jeep Wrangler but it’ll be a little harder with that car because you can’t sleep in it. It’s a decent choice, it’ll just take a little more planning because every day you’ll have to plan on where you’ll pitch a tent or rent a room to sleep in. If you can afford a roof top tent and have a way of putting it on, that would be a pretty ideal setup. The fastest we heard of people doing it and still having time to see things was about 8-9 months, anything less and you’re really having to skip too many things and spending most of your days driving. If you get a roof top tent, you should be able to do it quickly and cheaply since you can go faster without spending too much time trying to find the right sleeping place and you’ll rarely have to pay for campgrounds so it would very quickly pay for itself. Email us anytime for more

Hi, one of my fantasies has been doing this trip from US all the way until Chile. Every once in a while I do a search on how to do so and today I found your article and got me exited about trying to make it happen. One question, and of course safety is one of my biggest fears for doing the trip, but how you handled Chiapas people trying to bribe you?

Safety’s a big concern for everybody on the trip but once you get going you learn how to stay alert and avoid bad situations, for the most part. Out of all the people we met, we rarely heard of anybody getting into big trouble other than the occasional small theft. As for Chiapas, it’s pretty well known that certain areas are unstable and should be avoided so most people take a different route to avoid that bad area. When we couldn’t avoid it, it sucked paying an angry mob demanding money but there’s little we could do so we just bargained for the three vans we were traveling with and paid.

Hi, I’m curious how you paid the angry mobs when they demanded money. You mentioned you had cash hidden in the van’s walls, but that you never needed to use it. How then did you pay the angry mobs and how much did they demand vs. how much you actually had to pay? Thanks!

They usually had roadblocks set up and you couldn’t get through unless you paid. Every roadblock was different, some wanted $5, others $20. Sometimes we passed through multiple ones on the same day. I don’t know if the situation is still the same there.

Thanks for the info. We are planning Colombia to Argentina in Jan. Just a small point – in some of these countries you legally have to carry a kit in the car, for example in Colombia you must carry a fire extinguisher that is in date, and various tools.

Did you obtain visiting visa for each country you entered prior to your trip or the visas were obtained on arrival at the borders? (Not sure, to enter some of the latin American countries you don’t visas if you have USA passport).

If you are American, you don’t need a visa to enter most countries in Central and South America. The only country that might require a visa is Brazil (or at least they used to, not sure about it now) which is why we skipped it.

I am starting our trip very soon and I live in Colombia. I am a teacher and also plan on continuing teaching on the road through online classes. How reliable is the internet signal with the Google Fi service in countries like Peru and Bolivia?

Having Google Fi service was definitely the easiest option vs buying a SIM card in every new country like many of our friends did. Internet in bigger cities is pretty decent and you can also find a lot of coffee shops and cafes that offer internet. In smaller towns, it’s a bit more challenging so it just depends where you’re planning on traveling to.

Can you bring weapons for just incase purposes?

We personally did not. Every country has different rules and your van gets searched a lot, especially at the borders, so we didn’t risk it by bringing any weapons.

Did the national parks offer cabins as well as campsites?

It depends on each country and National Park. We visited several on our trip and some offered rustic accommodations, others campsites. Which park are you interested in?

Hi guys! I’ve been reading this article over an over. I’m hoping to do it soon. So, here is my thing. I’m living in the US, and anytime soon i want to go back home in Argentina. I have a dog, and a car so I thought driving back would be a great experience. I’m just interested in going back, so if we don’t do anything just driving and sleeping (on what would cost money), and some food and water, how much would you think it gonna cost? Do you pay a fee in every border you cross or some? I have an Argentinian passport so latin america should be easy to navigate. I have a regular suv car, so not like a ban or big car, will it cost about 1000$ to ship it to colombia? (From panama) -approximately- What expenses did you face only from easy food, gas and some campsites to sleep? Thank you!

How much you spend really depends on you. Our average was $2200 per month for two people but it’s hard to say what you would spend. Some quick math: Assuming you drive straight there without too many side trips, it’s about 20,000 miles. Most SUV’s get around 15 miles per gallon, so that would be 1,333 gallons of fuel, and at $5USD per gallon, that’s $6,700USD on fuel total. You could do that trip as fast as 3 months if you didn’t stop much, so $10 a day on food/water/basic necessities would be $900USD. Add in $2000 to ship your car plus flights, plus an extra $1000 for random expenses or emergencies. Add it all together and with minimal stops, driving fairly straight, not accounting for any entertainment or restaurant meals, and assuming you sleep in your car at free spots every night (easy to do 95% of the time), you’re looking at $10,600.

Do you have route coordinates you could share or a resource to pop into mapping software like GAIAGPS?

100% awesome usual information. Gracias! I’m planning to travel in my electric vehicle. I’ve done a lot of research and have discovered that there are more chargers than people might think. But I’ll also carry a range of adapter so I can plug into anything from a regular outlet (SLOW charging) to dryer, welder, and other outlets. Let me know if you know of any resources about EV traveling on the Pan American.

Thanks for your post and the pictures look incredible. Just added this to my bucket list. I do have some questions: 1. Did you have any issues with fuel? I have had issues using mexican gas back in the ’90’s. 2. Could a car be rented at each country to avoid all wear and tear on personal vehicles? 3. Can this be extended by driving back up on the east side of south america?

1. No issues with fuel since we used a gasoline engine, modern diesel engines that use DEF need some modifications to work with the dirty diesel 2. Probably not, the borders aren’t always by big cities so not sure how you’d get into a rental after crossing and how you would turn it in before crossing unless you took a taxi from the nearest city 3. Most people stick to the west side on the way down. You have to go back north because there aren’t any ports to ship from down south, so some people go on the east side on the way up. We did this to save time but the east was very boring, just long stretches on grasslands with very little to see. The northeastern countries are a bit tough to travel though, both physically and politically, so most people stop in Buenos Aires on the East.

How was the gas situation? Were there areas were it was difficult to find fuel?

We brought a 5-gallon gas can and didn’t use it once along our entire trip. It’s good to have as an emergency but the reality is that there’s gas everywhere. I’ve heard sometimes certain places like Patagonia’s route 40 will run out of fuel but we never experienced this. It could also be that we did the trip in a vehicle that can go 350+ miles on a single tank so maybe if you were going to do it in an older vehicle that doesn’t have a good range, then maybe you’d actually put the 5-gallon jerry can to use.

Wow, alot of great information. I’m retiring and hitting the road to live the nomad life.

I have considered travel outside if the states and the Pan American by highway trip interests me. Googling the trip your site came up. I am so glad to find it. Your article lets me I’m know that its not only possible but doable.

Hi, that’s really an amazing article and your effort and time to write it and post it is much appreciated. My wife and I are planning to do half of the trip. Would love to know your thoughts bout it. Planing to ship a 4×4 or a van from Florida to Columbia Cartagena and drive all the way down to Ushuaia Argentina and then Buenos Aries and ship it back (passing by Peru Chile etc.). or we can ship it to Uruguay, then go Buenos Aries, Ushuaia, and then all the way to Columbia and then ship it back to Florida. which one would you recommend? Second, how much would you think it takes to do the trip starting from Columbia or Argentina, the Southern part only and what would be the best time to do it? Countries we are planning to visit ( Columbia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, and maybe Uruguay to Sao Paolo) Thanks again and happy new year .

Hi Sam, the order you do it in is more dependent on when you do the trip. Ideally, you’d like to time it so you end up in Patagonia in their summer (December-February) and northern South America during the dry season (May-September). North Americans tend to go Colombia>Patagonia>BA since they come from the north, whereas many Europeans go BA>Patagonia>Colombia since they ship to BA. We know people that did all of South America in 3 months and others that took a year or more, it just depends on how many stops you make and how much you want to drive each day. I would plan for at least 6 months if you have the time and no faster than 3 months if you stick to only the highlights.

Thank You Joel & Laura Is it possible to make the trip without being fluent in spanish?

Hi Michael,

While Joel does speak fluent Spanish and it did help us a lot during the trip, there are plenty of people traveling the Pan-American Highway that don’t speak Spanish. I do recommend learning a few basics so you can purchase food at markets, buy entrance tickets and arrange campsites along the way. There are a lot of great free apps like Duolingo that make learning Spanish fun and easy! Cheers, Laura

Hi there I’m looking for a partner to make this adventure trip, by Chrisler Pacifica or eventually by motorcycle, Super Tenere 1250. [email protected]

This post is so helpful! Thank you! Not sure if you are still monitoring comments – but I just wondered what month you left in? We are trying to plan when to leave for a 12-14 Month trip and will be starting in Vancouver driving straight to Mexico (so leaving out alaska part and quickly through US)

Its hard trying to work a time so that we get to avoid rainy season in Central, but still get the Salt Flats drive in Bolivia – and Patagonia in Summer!

Hey Melissa! We started our trip in Mexico in December where we spent 6 months. Then we crossed into Central America for 4 months and then spent 5 months in South America. If I remember correctly, we finished the trip in March around 15 months later.

HI! First of all thanks for publishing this article. I’m an american living in Argentina looking to make the trip between Ushuaia and Alaska through December 2024 and Febuary 2025. My friends and I will be 21 during this timeframe and are concerned with the cost of insurance due to our age. Do you have any suggestions regarding this issue? Furthermore, we will drive one way and fly back the other, where would you recommend we start? Lastly, is there any page where we could contact other Overlanders looking to sell an American vehicle in Argentina or sell an argentine vehicle in the US or Canada? Kind regards, Dante

Hi Dante, if you’re talking about car insurance, it depends on each country but overall it was really cheap. We didn’t get medical insurance but that’s a bit of a gamble and completely up to you. Most people start in Canada or US but it’s cheaper to start in South America because a lot of people make it down there and sell their overlanding vehicles cheap which are already prepared for the drive. There is a facebook group called Overlanding Buy & Sell – Americas which will be your best bet for buying something, while the group Panamerican Travelers Association is a great place to get info and connect with others doing the drive. Good luck!

Thank you for this article! I’m in a corporate job i’m sick of & would like to quit and do some traveling before my next chapter in life.

1. I’m wondering how much money did you guys have saved up before leaving on this adventure? I have about $25k USD saved right now but not sure how long I can realistically make it. I live in Colorado & think I would go up to Canada first and adventure around there to get used to life on the road and avoid some culture shock as it would just be me.

2. Did you come across very many people doing this solo?

3. Ideally it would be great to document my trip on the various social media platforms and gain a following. I followed your IG and saw you have a pretty large following. Did you guys have that before your trip?

I may have more questions but that’s all i can think of for now. Just concerned doing it solo & how much i need to be able to do this.

1. We had saved up a good amount before traveling the PanAmerican Highway. We averaged $2200 in monthly costs for two people over the course of 15 months. This came out to around $33K for the entire trip. Canada is very expensive for traveling, but Mexico and south of US is much cheaper. 2. We came across solo travelers, couples, people with kids, retired people…it’s really a mix. There are people traveling the PanAmerican solo although they do it in much shorter trips. 3. We had a social media following before the trip but my blog is where I spend my focus on. If you want to grow an IG following for income reasons, making money on the road with brands through IG is nearly impossible as there is nowhere to send products to. Many people start YouTube channels documenting their trips and growing a following on there to make money from video ads.

Hope this helps! Good luck!

Hi, I am wondering if I would need a title for my vehicle to do all the border crossings. I am financing my van so I don’t have it. Is it possible to do a trip like yours without a title?

Hey Dustin! We replied to your email as well. In case anyone has a similar question, legally you’re supposed to have the title to your name or a title that’s not in your name with something called a “poder” which is a notarized letter from the owner saying that they grant you permission to travel with the vehicle outside the country. I don’t think a bank will want to give you this so it’s tough to do the trip with a financed car if you’re doing it the “right” way. I would advise you to get a cheaper vehicle that you can travel with than a nicer vehicle you can’t legally travel with.

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Van Life Mexico: The Ultimate List of FAQs

Traveling to Mexico should be on everyone’s bucket list. Mexico has it all: colorful history, stunning nature, diverse culture, and one of the best cuisines in the world. We spent the better part of a year driving through Mexico and loved every minute of it.

Here, you can discover pristine white sand beaches, epic surf, untouched jungles, soaring mountains, crystal blue waterfalls, charming colonial towns, sprawling metropolises, mouthwatering tacos, and bottomless margaritas. But how can you see all that Mexico offers from a tour bus or hanging around major tourist traps?

Hint: You can’t.

Setting out on a Mexico road trip is one of the best ways to dig a little deeper, get off the beaten path, and discover the real Mexico. But before you go, you may be wondering.

Can I Live in a Van in Mexico?

The absolute best way to travel Mexico is in your very own campervan or overlanding rig. With the resurgence of the vanlife and overlanding culture , van life in Mexico has never been more popular. And what’s better is that Mexico makes it easy to do #vanlife.

But driving a van through a foreign country is no small undertaking. And there are many dangers and pitfalls that can befall the underprepared traveler. Thankfully, van life in Mexico is a well-trodden path, with many who have gone before providing insight into just how to travel this vast country with your own vehicle.

From dealing with crooked cops to organizing your paperwork to finding campsites and avoiding scams, we’ve put together a list of our most helpful tips and frequently asked questions for your van life Mexico adventure! We wish we would have known these things before starting out on our own van life Mexico adventure.

Interested in Learning How to start van life?

Check out our detailed step-by-step guide for all the ins and outs of taking the leap and making van life your reality!

Legal Tips and FAQs for Van Life Mexico (The Paperwork)

Before you set off, knowing the basics and essentials for legally driving in Mexico is important.

Do I Need an International Driver’s License for Mexico?

An international driver’s license is required for driving in Mexico if your license is not in Spanish or English .

Is Driving in Mexico with US Plates Legal?

Yes and no.

Driving in Mexico with US plates is legal as long as you are on a tourist visa. Permanent residents, foreign citizens, and Mexican nationals are not allowed to drive foreign-plated cars unless they own the car and drive it over or are an immediate family member with tacit permission.

If you are there on a tourist visa and you do bring your US-plated car to Mexico, be aware that you may be stopped by police inquiring as to the whereabouts of your front plate. Unlike in other countries, the United States does not require front license plates. We were stopped multiple times throughout Mexico inquiring about our front license plate. However, we were allowed to continue onward after simply explaining that this is not required for US-plated vehicles.

What Do I Need to Know About Border Crossings in Mexico by Car?

Would you show up to a job interview unprepared? Border crossings may not be as important as job interviews, but showing up prepared is one way to make the process a lot easier. So here is a basic rundown.

If you plan to self-drive in Mexico, you need first to obtain a personal visa or Mexico Tourist Card (FMM). To obtain the Mexico Tourist Card, you only need a valid passport and to pay the entry fee of $500 pesos (~$25 USD).

Note: You only need to pay the Mexico entry fee if you travel overland, the entry fee is included in the price of your airline ticket if you travel by plane.

Once you have your Mexico Tourist Card you will need to make a photocopy of the card. Inquire with the immigration officer where to obtain a copy. At the US-Mexico border, we crossed, someone was set up in the building to make copies for $1 USD for each copy. At the Mexico-Guatemala border, we were sent to a store across the road to make copies for a fraction of the amount it costs in the US.

Once you have a copy of your Mexico Tourist Card, you need to obtain your Mexico Vehicle Permit, also known as Temporary Import Permit (TIP) for your vehicle. Below are the documents that we needed to cross the border into Mexico.

You need the original and one copy of each document.

• Driver’s License issued outside of Mexico
• A Mexican immigration permit, such as the Mexico Tourist Card (FMM)
• Vehicle Registration issued by a foreign authority in the applicant’s name.
• If the vehicle is leased, financed, or a company-owned car, you will need the applicable contract as well as a notarized letter of consent authorizing you to import the vehicle into Mexico.
• Certificate of canceled import permit for any prior temporary import permits.
• Proof of current Mexican auto insurance

The Mexico Vehicle Permit costs approximately $50 USD, payable to Banjercito, the military bank in charge of vehicle imports. You will also need to pay a deposit called the Temporary Import Deposit, which is determined based on the age of your vehicle. The deposit for vehicles before 2001 is USD $200, for vehicles between 2001 – 2006 USD $300, and for vehicles after 2007 USD $400.

The Mexico Vehicle Permit lasts for 180 days, which is the same as the Mexico Tourist Card.

You do not need to obtain a Mexico Vehicle Permit if you are only planning on visiting the Baja California Peninsula, Quintana Roo, the northwest portion of Sonora (the area west of the 15D and north of Guayamas), or just driving within 25 kilometers of the border.

Pro-tip: If your vehicle qualifies as a motorhome, you can apply for a ten-year vehicle permit. We did not qualify, but my understanding is that you only have to show the vehicle has an onboard toilet to meet the requirements. I have even heard of someone putting a toilet seat on a box and qualifying. If you have a toilet, we recommend this option as you won’t need to pay the additional fees if you plan on staying longer or want to return.

Pro-tip: Go early! Getting to the border when it first opens means that there will usually be fewer people. We also find the people are generally nicer and more helpful in the mornings as opposed to afternoons. Go figure!

Do I Need Van Insurance in Mexico?

Van insurance in Mexico is compulsory. You may be thinking, well, if I am just popping over into Mexico for a short while, do I really need it? Again, the answer is yes. Most US insurance companies do not offer coverage in Mexico, and therefore, you need to arrange it in advance.

Cross Border Coverage offers Mexican auto insurance for American plated cars, RVs, ATVs, campers, watercraft, and more.

For less than USD $300, we were able to ensure our van with full coverage for a year. This is an absolute steal when compared to prices in the United States.

Do I Need Health and Travel Insurance in Mexico?

In addition to insurance for your van, you also need travel insurance for yourself. Accidents and medical emergencies can happen anywhere and everywhere, so it is important to make sure that you are prepared for anything, and taking out travel health insurance with SafetyWing is one of the best ways to be prepared.

SafetyWing Insurance  is a great solution for van life in Mexico. They offer comprehensive travel and health insurance solutions tailored to long-term or indefinite travelers and nomads. Perfect for those living on the road.

We have needed to use travel insurance a couple of times while traveling, once in Colombia and once in Greece. We were so grateful to have the right insurance when we needed it.

Some of the benefits of using a nomad insurer like  SafetyWing  rather than a traditional travel insurer are;

• It’s cheaper than traditional travel insurance
• They offer global coverage (barring North Korea, Cuba and Iran)
• You can start or pause plans after your traveling has already commenced
• They cover you to travel home for 30 days (15 in the US), so you don’t have to take out insurance to visit home

Can I Buy a Mexican Plated Car in Mexico as a Foreigner?

Technically, you can buy a car in Mexico as long as you have the means. Registering the car, however, will be problematic.

To register a car in Mexico, you must provide proof of your Temporary or Permanent Visa and your Mexican address. For more on buying a car in Mexico, we recommend checking out the article by Own Mexico, explaining everything you need to know about purchasing a Mexican car in Mexico.

However, there is always the option of buying a car from another traveler with foreign license plates. Well, it isn’t quite as simple as that, but there are ways around it.

Can I Buy a Foreign Plated Car from Another Traveler in Mexico?

Selling your foreign-plated car in Mexico is technically illegal as you are not allowed to sell your vehicle on your Temporary Import Permit, which is registered in your name. In order for the sale to be legal, you would need to import the car, pay the import duties, and register it in Mexico. Seems too much like a headache, right?

If you don’t want to do this (and really, who does), there are two different options to consider, detailed below.

Option 1: Transferring Ownership

The first option is to transfer the registration of the vehicle to the buyer, but DO NOT MENTION SALE. From now on, we will call the seller the transferer and the buyer the transferee. Some countries, for example, the US and Western Australia (not all Australian states), will allow you to transfer the registration of the vehicle from your name to another person, even non-US / non-Australian citizens and residents. Other countries such as Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands will allow you to transfer the vehicle registration IF the registration is current.

So, what exactly do you need to do?

Step 1: Transfer the Vehicle Registration

Step 2: Cancel and Reissue the TIP

The vehicle transfer should occur near a border as you will both need to visit the aduana. The transferer’s TIP must be canceled, and the transferee must obtain a new TIP. (Note: If the transferer doesn’t want to go to the border, you can always obtain a PODER, and the transferee can cancel the TIP on the transferer’s behalf.)

Option 2: PODER

So, what if you have a car from a country where you cannot transfer ownership? Don’t worry; you still have an option.

If you cannot transfer ownership, then you will need a letter of authorization known as a carta poder. A poder is a notarized Power of Attorney document that grants specific rights to the recipient/s listed as the beneficiary, such as granting full authority over a vehicle to another individual. This document allows the new owner to operate the vehicle as their own and allows them to do with the vehicle as they see fit.

A poder does not change the original documents and technically still remains under the name of the person listed on the title and registration documents. The wording of a poder is important as it must include specific points and contain specific information.

Once you have a poder, you need to have the poder apostilled. An apostilled certificate is a document attached to the original document confirming the document is legitimate and authentic. It basically confirms the notarized document has been signed by the named person in the capacity of the notarized public and bears the seal of the notarized body.

OK, so what now? The TIP needs to be transferred to the new “buyer’s” name. You can do this by both going to the Aduana or the buyer can transfer the TIP to the appropriate name using the poder. To enter future countries, you will need to provide the vehicle document in the seller’s name and the poder to obtain new temporary import documents.

Hopefully, one of these options will work for you. If not, there is always the option of renting a car in Mexico (See more on renting a car in Mexico below).

Can I Leave My Van and Travel Out of Mexico?

Technically, the answer is no, but it can be done.

Our van in Mexico was registered under my name (Kelli) and tied to my passport. However, during our time in Mexico, I left Mexico on four separate occasions while Eddie and the van stayed behind.

With this being said, you are taking a gamble that immigration will flag this on your departure or your return. While this did not happen to me, I have heard horror stories of cars being seized by the government when people have left them behind and of the staggering costs to retrieve them. All in all, it may not be worth the headache if you were to run into trouble. Our advice for leaving a car in Mexico while you leave is just to cancel the TIP in a border-free zone and leave it there.

Can I Rent a Camper Van in Mexico?

So maybe you don’t want to bring your own car for your van life Mexico adventure, and maybe you want to self-drive Mexico in a rental.

The good news is that renting a van in Mexico is legal.

The bad news is that it is not always that easy. Because van travel is not popular among Mexican nationals, only a few companies offer camper vans or converted vans to rent. Usually, van rental is done by private businesses through websites, Airbnb listings, or Facebook groups. Van rentals are mostly found in tourist areas like Baja California, the Yucatan, Quintana Roo, and most recently, Oaxaca.

Here are a few camper van rental companies around Mexico.

• The Kombi Experience in Tulum
• Alfa Combi in the Yucatan
• Paradise Campers in the Yucatan
• Sampa Explore in Baja California

We have compiled a detailed pros and cons guide for each camper van rental company in Mexico .

If you find a van to rent, you will need a valid driver’s license from your home country plus an international driver’s license if your license is not in English or Spanish. And don’t forget about insurance. Third-party insurance is compulsory in Mexico even when renting a car; the rental company or vehicle owner should be able to provide information on this.

the Mexico Free Zone (the Border Free Zone)

Have you heard about the Mexico free zone? What in the heck is it? Let’s dive into some of our burning questions before we set off for van life in Mexico.

What Is the Mexico Free Zone?

Mexico is unique in that it has several border-free zones where tourists do not need to pass through immigration to visit for a limited time. These areas were designated by the Mexican government to increase tourism along the border with the United States, which makes traveling to Mexico a bit easier for those looking to make a trip just over the border.

So you may be wondering, where is the Mexico Free Zone? The Mexico Free Zone includes the following states:

• Baja California (Yes, the entire state is a border-free zone)
• Sonora – From Agua Prieta northwest of Mexico 2 through to Cananea, where Mexico 2 intersects with Mexico 15 in Imuris. The free zone in Sonora lies to the northwest of Mexico Federal Highway Number 2, starting at Agua Prieta. It extends through Cananea, to where it intersects with Mexican Federal Highway 15 in Imuris. From Imuris, all of the areas to the north and west of Mexico Federal Highway 15 are included. Kilometer 98, southeast of Empalme, is where the free zone ends.
• Quintana Roo (Yes, the entire state is a border-free zone.)

So, if you are looking for a sneak peek of a van life Mexico adventure, perhaps a quick test run in the Mexican Free Zone is for you!

Do I Need Car Insurance in the Mexican Free Zone?

Yes. If you bring a car into Mexico, even in the Mexican-free zone, you must have Mexican car insurance. American or other foreign car insurance is not accepted in Mexico. Refer back to the Paperwork Section for the best vehicle insurance for van life in Mexico.

Driving Tips and FAQs for Van Life in Mexico

What kind of vehicle do i need to self-drive in mexico.

Before you begin your self-drive Mexico adventure, you might wonder what kind of vehicle you need. Whether your vehicle of choice is a motorbike, car, van, or really just about anything you would like, they are all suitable for traveling in Mexico.

We have met people with what today is seen as the gold standard in modern vanlifing, the Sprinter van, classic kombis, huge custom Man trucks, regular 4WDs, or vans kitted out to fit overlanding needs, motorbikes, and even bicycles. You name it, we have seen it. We have even heard of people traveling through Central and South America with a tuk-tuk. The moral of the story, choose whatever you think will be most comfortable for what you need.

We did not have a 4WD on our van life Mexico adventure, and we didn’t think it limited our ability to go places we otherwise would have visited. Maybe if you plan to spend a lot of time in Baja, California, and even then, you probably could get by without a 4WD.

Looking for inspiration for your own van conversion before heading out on your own van life Mexico adventure? Check out our DIY van conversion guide .

Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

Is it safe to drive through Mexico? And is self-driving Mexico safe?

These are two of the most commonly asked questions we get regarding our van life Mexico travels.

So, the verdict? Is driving in Mexico safe?

We found driving in Mexico safe as long as we took basic precautions. And we found that (most) roads in Mexico were far superior to roads in other developing countries (looking at you South America). However, the most dangerous thing on the road in Mexico may be the topes (more on this below).

But this does not negate that you are in a developing country. While we found police corruption far less of an issue in Mexico than in other Latin American countries, we did encounter it occasionally. And there was also the threat of petty crime and local scams, especially in remote areas like rural Chiapas.

While safety should be considered , if you are mindful and prepared, you can mitigate many of the risks of traveling to this beautiful part of the world.

We live by the following rules when driving in Mexico:

• No driving at night.
• Download Google Maps or Maps Me in case you get lost and have no reception.
• Avoid “high-risk areas” – More on how to identify these areas below
• If stopped by the police or community, don’t try to argue. The path of least resistance is usually best.

Using these guidelines when driving in Mexico worked for us. Occasionally, we pulled the “I don’t speak Spanish card” (which isn’t so far from the truth), but I never needed to whip out the tears as I did in Ecuador because of police corruption.

The moral of the story is just to be smart and stay alert. Most of Mexico isn’t as dangerous as the media makes it out to be.

How to Deal with Traffic Cops in Mexico?

If you self-drive in Mexico, especially with a foreign license plate, you will be stopped by the police. It is inevitable. How they treat you, however, is a toss-up. We found the police overall in Mexico to be reasonable. They stopped us, just like they stopped everyone else, to do their job, mainly ensuring we had the proper paperwork or to ask us about our front license plate.

The only “run-ins” we had with the police were in the extremely popular Yucatan Peninsula. And even then, these were minor.

The most common issue with traffic police is an old bribery routine. Police will insist you have committed some infraction, even though you aren’t certain you have. Perhaps something about your vehicle is illegal, or you failed to follow some local law or mystery street sign. The penalty for this infraction is huge, with big fines and even long-term vehicle impoundment. Oh drat. Luckily, your amigos, the police, will take care of you and make it all go away if you can pay an on-the-spot fine in cash, far less than the original charge.

If you do get this routine (and we have been stopped plenty in South America), then consider using these tactics to deal with the police:

• Stay friendly; aggression definitely won’t help this situation
• Play dumb. On numerous occasions in Mexico, the police simply let us go when we pretended (ok, we really weren’t pretending) that we could not speak Spanish. After spending thirty frustrating minutes communicating via Google Translate, it may start to seem like more trouble than it is worth for the corrupt cops.
• If playing dumb doesn’t work, you could try to escalate. Explain (while keeping things light and friendly) that you don’t believe you have committed an infraction and would like to get a written ticket to go to the police station and dispute the ticket. Be sure to ask them for their names and the name of a superior you can discuss it with. Hopefully, they will back down at this point, not wanting to get caught out in their own corruption. If they don’t back down, well, now you have to follow through. Get names. Write down the name of the officer(s) in charge. We have heard of people following up with charges subsequently and having rulings overturned. We have also heard of bribes doubling when the supervisor gets involved, so make sure you are prepared for the possibility if you request to speak to a supervisor.
• Cry. You may think we are kidding, but it actually works. We have never seen a corrupt police officer throw back our documents as fast as we did in Ecuador when the waterworks came.
• Pay. When things seem dangerous or start to escalate, we recommend paying. At the end of the day, the police, like anywhere else, have power, and if they get the inclination, they can use that power to make life difficult or worse. It isn’t worth the trouble to save the $10 it might cost you if the officer isn’t backing down.

What Is Tope in Mexico? And Why Are They Potentially the Worst Thing about Van Life Mexico?

Think of topes as the cartels of the Mexican road system. They are hard to spot and are extremely dangerous.

So, what exactly is a tope? A tope is simply a speed bump. Many things separate the Mexican tope from the normal speed bump, but the most noticeable (or least noticeable, perhaps) is that they are often unpainted. Imagine how difficult it is to see a speed bump the same color as the road going 50 kilometers per hour in the dark. Almost impossible!

Another key difference is the homemade nature of many topes, used by communities to limit speeds around their towns and villages. There doesn’t seem to be any regulation around the size or severity of topes either, and many are quite aggressive. Decisions behind distances between tope placement is another mystery that continues to elude our comprehension.

And while the locals seem to know where the topes are, foreigners do not. So, word to the wise: keep your speeding in check, or your suspension could need replacing even after only a short road trip in Mexico.

At the end of the day, topes do seem to serve their purpose, as we have seen fewer car accidents and less speeding in Mexico than in other places we have driven.

Can You Explain the Cuota v. Libre Roads?

There are often two types of roads in Mexico. The cuota or paid roads are the toll roads, and the libre or free roads are, well, just that, free. The road quality of the cuota roads is usually considerably better; however, better roads come with a price.

Tolls in Mexico can be quite expensive. On one occasion in Quintana Roo, we paid $266 pesos for a one-hour and forty-five-minute journey from Valladolid to Playa del Carmen. It sounds like highway robbery to me!

If you do decide to take the libre (free) roads, heed this advice. BE CAREFUL OF TOPES.

For more advice on whether it is safe to drive through Mexico, check out our article Is It Safe to Drive Through Mexico? The Complete Van Life Guide !

Camping FAQs for Mexico Vanlife

Are there campgrounds in mexico.

Many people enjoy the idea of overlanding or road-tripping but prefer to stay somewhere with some sort of civilization, say a toilet and running water. Luckily for you, there are plenty of campgrounds available as you overland Mexico or individuals running campground-like facilities from their backyard. iOverlander, discussed below , will be your best friend when finding the best campgrounds in destinations you plan to van life Mexico adventure.

What if I Cannot Afford a Campground Every Night or Love Wild Camping?

Boondocking or wild camping is our favorite form of camping. Boondocking means camping outside designated camping areas without access to water, electricity, or a sewer system. Boondocking in Mexico can be done anywhere as it is legally accepted, unlike in some other countries.

Whether you choose to camp next to a beach, on top of a mountain, or at a gas station, the choice is yours. However, we recommend speaking with the locals nearby to let them know you are there and to ensure your chosen area is safe. Trust us; it will make you and the locals feel much better in the long run, even if you have to wing your way through broken Spanglish to get there!

Check out our favorite boondocking in Mexico locations!

And look, if camping really isn’t your thing, there are plenty of hotels and hostels in Mexico for your choosing. Check out Booking.com for the best deals!

Is It Safe to Stealth Camp in Cities in Mexico?

Stealth camping is secretly camping in your vehicle in a public place, say on a city street or in a shopping center car park. No one loves stealth camping, but as part of your Van Life Mexico trip, I am sure you will occasionally find yourself stealth camping.

When we are not camping at the Walmart parking lot in cities throughout Mexico, we stealth camp. For example, we camped outside a local park in Oaxaca for three weeks off and on, and it was perfectly safe.

Another time, we camped on the streets in Palenque and woke up in the middle of the night to a burglar in our car .

And while this was terrifying, it was also a one-off incident, and we still recommend stealth camping when the occasion arises. And on the whole, we never felt it was “unsafe” when we were stealth camping in Mexico.

If you decide to stealth camp, remember to park in well-lit areas, preferably in areas that have been reported to be safe.

Safety Tips and FAQs for Van Life Mexico

Is mexico safe.

This is the number one question we get about van life in Mexico. Well, actually, we get asked, “Isn’t Mexico dangerous?!”

Traveling through Mexico, like anywhere else, comes with some inherent dangers. However, sometimes, the media’s focus on the sensational can distract us from the true dangers of a region. Many have often questioned our decision to overland through Mexico, and some have asked if it is safe to visit Mexico at all.

While Mexico’s crime rate is higher than, say, the United States, the actual statistical risk of being the victim of serious crimes is extremely low. Within some states, such as Campeche and Yucatán, these rates fall below the National Average for the United States. Conversely, both the rate and the severity of food poisoning cases increase dramatically South of the Border.

Given that, putting all your energy into avoiding being kidnapped in Mexico rather than avoiding suspect street meat will likely put you in the hospital quicker than the cartel. Ensuring you understand the true risks and how to mitigate them is the key to staying safe in Mexico.

Is it safe to travel in Mexico? Yes, in our experience, with proper preparation, precaution, and mindfulness, Mexico is safe to travel.

Where Is Safe to Travel in Mexico?

Mexico is a huge country, so it is unhelpful to generalize the entire country as safe or unsafe. Instead, care and research should be taken in each area you travel in to help understand and mitigate the risks associated with particular regions.

It is equally unhelpful to label some areas of Mexico (or anywhere else) safe and others unsafe. The fact is that dangerous scenarios can develop very quickly. Acapulco, once considered one of the premier vacation spots in Mexico, is, as of 2014, considered one of the most dangerous cities on earth. One where the military has disarmed the corrupt police force and where rates of violent crime are some of the highest in the world.

To travel safely through Mexico, you first need to research your destination(s). By researching the specific areas you intend to visit, traveling only in areas where it is safe, and taking basic precautions, you will find risks can be managed and mitigated, and that travel through Mexico can be done quite safely.

How Can I Find Out Which Parts of Mexico Are Safe for Travel?

Understanding the political, economic, social, and military situation within the region you plan to travel to is as important as it is simple. But how can you keep yourself informed and up to date with the current situation of a particular location?

Government Agencies

One source to begin your broader research is government foreign affairs agencies. Government websites offer travel resources, up-to-date information, and travel warnings. We use the US Bureau of Consular Affairs site  and the Australian DFAT website .

These are great places to research known travel warnings and issues. It is also a good place to research regions in Mexico (or other places) that your government has deemed high risk and will not offer consular assistance in.

The US Government , for example, keeps a website with a list of states categorized as ‘do not travel’ or ‘reconsider travel’ along with the threats they have identified in these regions (usually crime, occasionally kidnapping). We have avoided traveling to all states categorized ‘Do Not Go,’ although many have traveled these areas incident-free.

Honestly, we considered visiting some of these areas and probably would have if there weren’t so many wonderful places that the US Department of State did not flag. We traveled through many states marked as ‘reconsider travel’ such as Chihuahua, Jalisco, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, and San Luis Potosi. In these areas, we took extra precautions to ensure our safety.

Online Groups, Groups, Forums and Apps

Online forums like Facebook groups such as Over Landing South and Central America and Panam Travellers Association are great forums to seek advice on particular areas from experienced travelers for localized and current information.

Another tool we use for local research is  iOverlander . This mapping and travel app uses community contributions to provide up-to-date travel information, including warnings from other overlanders. This resource is helpful for issues at a local level that might escape the attention of government websites.

Local News and Local Government Agencies

If you find yourself in a localized emergency, local online news is the best place to get information. You can also contact Mexico’s governmental tourism agencies, such as the tourist police, for the region you are traveling in.

Situations can develop quickly, so staying informed through local channels is important. We are not talking about drug cartels with assault weapons here, either. Civil unrest, blockades, and protests can turn violent quickly. Steer clear of these situations or face being singled out as a foreigner.

Consular Services

Finally, your own country’s consular service in the region can help you stay up to date with situations as they unfold.

By staying informed and avoiding areas with increased risk, you are doing the best thing you can to avoid being the subject of serious crime.

How to Avoid Getting Robbed in Mexico?

Okay, so this one might sound like a silly question, but petty theft is a common practice in Mexico. Tourists make for easy targets, especially those in large groups and when alcohol is involved. Ways to stay safe in Mexico and minimize your chances of getting robbed include:

• Don’t walk alone at night
• Avoid dark alleys and roads
• Avoid flashing wads of money in restaurants, bars, and nightclubs
• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry
• Familiarise yourself with the places to visit and avoid dangerous areas
• Don’t get too drunk (and you know what I mean)

Obviously, bad luck could still befall you even if you follow these guidelines. Just remember always to be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.

How to Avoid Getting Scammed in Mexico?

Just like anywhere in Mexico, some dodgy people will try to take advantage of confusion and uncertainty from tourists. Scams range from the innocuous to the bizarre to the downright dangerous. And as soon as you think you know every scam there is, someone goes and invents another. Follow your gut, stick to the plan, don’t trust anything that sounds too good to be true, and don’t be afraid to ask a passing local for help if you smell a scam.

Here are some examples of popular scams in Mexico to look for.

Overpriced Vegetables

In this innocuous marketplace scam, the fruit and veggie vendor has a computer-like ability to eyeball your groceries and price them on the spot. One tomato is 20 pesos, a bunch of coriander is 20 pesos, and a single grape; better believe that’s 20 pesos. When you’re still getting your bearings in a foreign country, working out currency conversion, and relying on rusty Spanish, it can be easier to pay first and realize you have grossly overpaid later. When shopping in the market, ask for the price upfront and compare a couple of stalls to get the best price, you may never get the local price, but you can avoid being a total sucker.

Wrong Change

Okay, so you have figured out the true price of fruit and veg, and you always ask for a quote before you buy great. You grab a banana and hand over your 500 peso bill only to receive a few pesos back. You explain the misunderstanding to the shopkeeper, who doesn’t seem to remember the 500 pesos which have evaporated from sight. Pay in small bills, preferably with correct change where possible.

Double Entry Fees

You are driving into your next tourist destination, ancient Mayan ruins, gorgeous waterfalls, or deep clear cenotes, and are stopped on the road by some local people collecting the entry fee; you happily pay up and receive your ticket. Lo and behold, further down the road, a more official traffic stop tells you the original ticket was bogus or was for some other levy (road access fee??!) and won’t get you into the attraction. If it doesn’t feel right and there is no gate, it is safest to pretend you didn’t see the people flagging you down and keep on driving.

Traffic Police Scams

Police will insist you have committed some infraction, even though you aren’t certain you have. Perhaps something about your vehicle is illegal, or you failed to follow some local law or mystery street sign. The penalty for this infraction is huge, big fines and even long-term vehicle impoundment. Oh drat. Luckily, your amigos, the police will take care of you and make it all go away if you can pay an on-the-spot fine in cash, far less than the original charge.

You will need to feel this one out, and it can be tricky. Strategies to avoid this scam are about making it more trouble than it’s worth for the police officers. Make communication impossible by not speaking any Spanish. Alternatively, if you are sure you haven’t done anything wrong, request the written ticket and say you will follow the officers to the police station to sort it out there; make it clear you will be appealing the bogus ticket. Finally, if everything fails, turn on the waterworks and melt their icy scammer hearts.

The Barricade

It could be a couple of kids with a rope or an entire town with homemade tire spikes, but the intention is the same. Block the way until cooperation (donation) is made. If possible, keep driving through small blockades; that rope will drop just in time. If the whole town is out in force with tire spikes, it might be worth making a small contribution.

Jet Ski Scam

Rental products like jet skis are taken out for some fun. Upon returning, the operator finds that the rental is damaged. You swear you didn’t do that, but they are getting the ‘police’ involved, who will invariably back them up. Only deal with operators with an existing online presence and reputation or come recommended.

Other Tips and FAQs for Van Life Mexico

How long should i spend in mexico.

How long is a piece of string? You can theoretically spend as much time (with border-hopping) or as little time as you want on your Mexico travel. We spent six months on our van life Mexico adventure and barely scratched the surface. Whether you spend one month in Mexico, two weeks, or even just a long weekend, you are bound to fall in love and return one day.

There are plenty of places to visit in Mexico. From the white sand beaches of Jalisco and Oaxaca to the jungles of Chiapas, there are so many beautiful places to explore. Check out the list of our favorite destinations!

How Much Does it Cost to Travel Mexico?

Determining the cost to travel Mexico is difficult as travel styles vary significantly. You can travel to Mexico and spend lots of money, or you can travel to Mexico on the cheap.

On average, we spent USD $350 per week on living expenses for two people. This includes food, alcohol, pre-paid mobile phone plans, laundry, gas, tolls, and other day-to-day expenses. The majority of our budget went to feeding our gas-guzzling Chevy and, of course, feeding ourselves heaps of tacos!

Could we have done Mexico cheaper?

Did we feel as though we missed out on things with our weekly budget of USD $350?

Prices in Mexico are generally cheaper than in the United States or Australia, so on your van life Mexico adventure, you may even spend less per week on the road than you would at home!

If you want to learn more about how much it costs to travel Mexico , check out our more detailed post to give you an idea of what a day-to-day travel budget could look like.

Do I Need to Speak Spanish for Van Life Mexico?

Spanish is the national language spoken throughout Mexico. While we recommend learning at least the basics of Spanish, it is not a necessity. In most large cities, some people will speak English.

Can I Drink the Water in Mexico?

Although some regions now have reliable treated water, the general rule of thumb in Mexico is to consider all water outside high-end restaurants and hotels suspect. This should also be considered when contemplating frozen margs or iced cocktails. Double-check the ice is made from purified water to avoid ruining your entire evening or perhaps an entire trip.

Finding water in Mexico to fill up your onboard water tanks is easy. You can purchase water from the “Agua Purificada” shops in each town, or if you don’t want to pay for water, you usually can fill up at local gas stations and then purify the water with a purification system.

If you choose this option, remember to keep your unfiltered and filtered water in separate containers. We carry a Platypus Water Filtering System with us that allows us to filter 4 liters at a time, which we find handy and avoids buying single-use plastics.

Pro Tip: We did find that the water was safe to drink in Monterrey , but that was the only city where it is possible as you overland Mexico.

Is There Reliable Internet or Mobile Coverage in Mexico?

If you are thinking about a van life Mexico adventure, you may be concerned about reliable internet or mobile coverage, especially if you work remotely. Eddie and I work part-time remote jobs and found working throughout Mexico relatively easy with simply our mobile hotspot.

In most cities and towns throughout Mexico, you can find a 4G signal or better using Telcel, the main mobile provider in Mexico. This means that you might need to do a bit of planning to make sure you are in a town with a signal. We typically structured our weeks to be in a place with a signal Monday to Thursday and then head off-grid for an extended weekend.

If mobile coverage is important to you, check out nperf.com for up-to-date data on signal quality throughout Mexico based on individual providers.

For people with high bandwidth requirements, Starlink RV now provides affordable, reliable mobile satellite internet and speeds of 50–500 Mbps. Currently, Starlink costs a one-time set-up fee of $600 USD and an ongoing subscription of $135 per month.

What Is the Currency in Mexico?

The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso. If you are checking exchange rates, the abbreviation for the Mexican peso is MXN, not MXP, the old Mexican peso.

Are ATMs in Mexico, or Should I Bring Cash with Me on My Van Life Mexico Trip?

This one is up to you. We typically do not organize foreign currency before heading to a new country, although when we first arrived in Mexico, sorting out an ATM was kind of a headache.

ATMs are available in most cities, although there are some exceptions. For example, some of the remote beaches in Oaxaca did not have ATMs available, so organizing cash before going to these destinations is imperative.

Most ATMs will charge a fee at the ATM (usually MXN $50), and then an additional fee will likely be charged by your bank, depending on the type of fee structure you have. Many US banks have arrangements with their Mexican counterpart and will waive the fee at certain banks. Check with your bank before departing to confirm where to get cash out in Mexico.

The amount you can withdraw from the ATM varies greatly depending on the bank and even the city you are visiting. Generally, I could withdraw between $5,000 – $8,000 pesos at once.

Make sure you always have cash on you in Mexico, as most places do not accept credit cards. In the more popular destinations such as Oaxaca or Tulum, credit cards will be accepted at some establishments, and most gas stations will accept credit cards.

If you are paying with a credit card, be careful. It is common for credit card details to be stolen in Mexico, particularly at the gas station. If paying by credit card, always request the attendant bring the machine to you instead of taking your card to the register. Also, double-check the amount in the credit card machine before they swipe your card. The incorrect amount was entered on at least one occasion, and getting our money back was a hassle!

Pro-tip: When filling up at gas stations, verify the meter is zero before the attendant starts pumping gas. This is another common scam in Mexico to avoid!

What Other Resources Are Available for a Van Life Mexico Adventure?

Ioverlander.

iOverlande r is a great resource for everything on your van life Mexico overlanding trip. It is a map of locations throughout Mexico detailing everything you can think of. On iOverlander, you can find places to wild camp, hostels, hotels, places to eat, laundry facilities, road closure information, corruption, and warnings, literally just about everything you can think of. We use iOverlander on a daily basis when traveling in Mexico and other parts of Central and South America.

WikiOverland

You know about Wikipedia, right? Well, now there is WikiOverland that tells you everything (well, almost everything) you need to know about overlanding a particular country. Like Wikipedia, it is user-submitted, so use common sense when taking the information at face value.

Where to Go on Your Van Life Mexico Adventure?

So now that you know everything there is to know about traveling to Mexico, the next question is, “Where to go in Mexico?”.

There are so many places to visit in Mexico that it is hard to know where to start. As I said, we spent six months during our van life Mexico adventure and barely scratched the surface. But to help you plan your Mexico travels, we have put together ten road trips in Mexico that will at least give you a start. Or, if you prefer to plan your own route, check out our list of the 25 best destinations in Mexico .

Hopefully, some of these tips, tricks, and FAQs will help you on your own Van Life Mexico adventure and self-drive Mexico. Let us know in the comments about your overland Mexico trip!

Out of a love of travel we met in a hostel in Estonia, one snowy Christmas night. Eighteen months later, we quit our day jobs in search of a more nomadic life style together.

Five years later, we are still traveling. Between us we have explored more than 80 countries, undertaken countless #vanlife adventures in more than 12 countries on 4 different continents. Most recently we have been learning to sail on our little boat whisper in the Mediterranean, falling in love with sailing and the live aboard lifestyle. While we travel and work work remotely as digital nomads.

Through this website and our vlog we hope to share some of the things we learn about the off-the-beaten path destinations we visit, about van life, sail life and working remotely from the road.

We are the Vanabonds, these are our tales.

Eddie & Kelli

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27 Comments

Thanks for this wonderful information on travelling in a van through Mexico, looks and sounds like you had a fabulous trip. Its on our list of next adventures. We are potentially thinking of shipping a van over from the UK as they are cheaper for us to buy over there than in the US. Did you see many UK plated vehicles on your travels? We are potentially thinking of converting a van ourselves is there anything in particular you would recommend we install etc. for a trip to Mexico and through Central America? Is there anywhere in particular you would recommend in Central America and anywhere you would avoid? Many Thanks

I’m glad you found the article helpful!

We saw many foreign plated vehicles in Mexico from Europe, South America and North America. I am can’t remember specifically seeing UK plates, but certainly you are allowed to use a foreign plated car in Mexico with a temporary import permit.

An extraction fan is a must and plenty of small twelve volt fans as well. Properly insulating the van and creating reflective insulated covers for the windows will also keep heat out and help regulate the temperature. Perhaps our favourite places in Mexico are the Riviera Nayarit, Oaxaca and Chiapas. In terms of dangerous areas in Mexico, we keep an eye on the US department of State website for updates https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html .

Our exploration of the rest of Central America was cut short by COVID however if you make to South America, the Coffee regions of Colombia and the beaches of Ecuador are very special.

So much great info on van life in Mexico! I’m so tempted!

Mexico is great for van life!

This sounds like an exciting adventure. I’ve only been to Mexico for a day.

Only for a DAY!!! Wow, you could spend a year in Mexico and still not see it all.

Wow, thatnk for this comprehensive guide about traveling through Mexico in a van. I’ve done so in Peru, but not in any other Latin American country so far. But it’s always such a great adventure!

we also traveled Peru by van, and I believe that van life in Mexico is easier than van life in Peru.

Super informative post! Tons of useful advice (especially I liked about dealing with police 🙂 I feel inspired to make such trip through Mexico one day

Yes, you are bound to have a run in with the police in Mexico if you travel by van. It is always good to be prepared.

This is such a comprehensive guide, I absolutely love this! I don’t think anyone could be lost in Mexico with this piece on hand.

Thanks for the kind words. I am glad you found it informative.

What a fantastic way to travel through one of the most beautiful parts of the world. Mexico being unsafe has always been a thing in my mind as well. But, you are right, we can make it safe by following proper precautions.

We felt safe in almost all of Mexico with the exception of Palenque in Chiapas.

Oh, I should add that I did a roadtrip in the south of Mexico in 2019 and I loved it. It is the safest part of Mexico. Even with that, we went through several police / military road stops looking for narcotics or alcohol. Those went without a hitch. So, The Yucatan peninsula is a must with it’s colonial cities, mayan ruins, beaches, and nature reserves. Oh, and the food. Amazing food.

Just don’t eat the raw lettuce. 🙂

Great read. I grew up in Mexico but haven’t lived there for 22 years.

I want to provide a different perspective on two of the recommendations:

1. Some parts of Chiapas are self defined as “self governed”. There was a war between the indigenous people and the government. It hasn’t ended but there is no further military activity. This means that neither the police or the military get into those zones. It is also in some of those zones where the children put their ropes. It is VERY dangerous to try to cross the rope. If you injure a child they will detain you and it is the local government with their own uses and customs. They may request whatever amount they want and no one on the Mexican government will intercede for you. If you decide to use the road between Palenque and San Cristobal ONLY do it during the day, and change your pesos for small change and buy a couple of bags of candy/caramel. When the children approach, distribute a few pesos and a few candies and they’ll drop the rope. You will find about 10 ropes in that road. I’ve sworn that next time I will take the ‘cuota’ (toll road) even if it takes a couple of hours longer. 2. With police you can certainly bluff and it has worked for me in the past. However, if you get to the point of asking for their superiors and they come, the bribe becomes bigger and bigger, and if you really broke a law (even inadvertently) they will take you to jail and the bribe to the “Ministerio Publico” (equivalent to DA) is an order of magnitude bigger or more. Once I had a not at fault accident. The police were nice and agreed it was not at fault. I still had to go to the MP and he threatened me with jail because my children got hurt (slightly). My only out was to pay. I don’t live in Mexico in part because I don’t like corruption, bribes are rarely optional. 3. When you drive in large cities, ALWAYS ensure you have the locks on and the windows up. At red lights keep checking your rear view mirrors to ensure no one is approaching. If someone jumps in front of you don’t stop. Try to go around, they will get out of the way. 4. If someone is trying to rob you, just comply, your life is worth more than what you are losing.

I really want to go to Mexico but I am currently divided between the opinion of people who have actually traveled there in a van and the advise of my family for whom the likelyhood of being kidnapped with Canadian plates is 100%.

(Context: I decided to leave Mexico after being assaulted at gun point in the street once, having my office robbed at gun point once, having been kidnapped when taking a cab and having my car stolen from the parking lot of my apartment).

Thanks for this additional insight from a local. We will make sure to update the post to reflect this content.

What a fantastic way to travel! The freedom of it must be intoxicating. I love the tips for dealing with traffic police – play dumb, cry, if that doesn’t work – pay. That’s pretty much what I used to resort to when getting in ‘trouble’ with traffic police in Thailand.

We have done them all! You never know which one is going to work best!

There’s so much to learn about van life in Mexico! This is such a helpful, comprehension guide though. Love your comment about avoiding street meat versus avoiding the cartel, lol. It’s so true!

haha, it has certainly been true for us!

Super detailed guide! Thanks for sharing! My husband and I have been watching so much vanlife Mexico content on youtube during the pandemic that this was a super interesting read! Bookmarking 🙂

Traveling by van in Mexico is so much fun! Highly recommend!

I’ll admit, driving in a foreign country definitely makes me very nervous so I appreciate this guide that answers all of those nagging questions about how to do it.

Wow! This is such a detailed guide for van life in Mexico. I want to visit Mexico too, and you are convincing me to do this Van Life! 🙂

Having a van in Mexico is great because you can explore places that are less touristy!

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Home » South America » Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking South America Travel Guide (TRAVEL TIPS • 2024)

So, you want to know how to travel South America, eh? Well, you’re in the right place! 

Backpacking through South America is like learning to ride a bike without the training wheels. There is just the right amount of danger and curve balls to keep you alert, focused, and totally stoked on life.

With the exception of a handful of backpacker hotspots, South America is the wild west frontier of backpacking. This is the land of crazy parties, epic surfing, sprawling cities, and wild landscapes including the Andes and the Amazon jungle.

Above all else, South America is stunningly beautiful. Though challenging to navigate at times, it’s budget backpacker friendly, diverse, relatively safe, and one hell of a travel experience…

But South America is MASSIVE. Deciding where to go and how to travel South America is a mind-boggling task. That’s where I come in, amigos. This South America travel guide will provide you with EVERYTHING you need to know to prepare for your trip through South America.

Here’s the full low-down on how to backpack South America including routes, country profiles, tips and tricks for South America budget travel, and much more.f

Lace up your bootstraps and prepare to have your travel inspiration skyrocket. We’re going on an adventure!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Go Backpacking in South America?

The South American continent is one of my favourite places on earth. It was always a place that mystified me: the traveller group was generally older and more mature. So when I got invited (by a sexy South American), I jumped at the chance.

It’s a place where I learned the art of budget travel , fell in love countless times, and had a multitude of life-changing experiences along the way. If you want to get off the beaten track whilst still having the option to meet plenty of other travellers, South America is the place to level up your backpacking skills and head on a real adventure…

South America is one of the most diverse continents on earth. It is home to the world’s second-highest mountain range in the Andes, world-class surf beaches, the Amazon Basin, the world’s driest desert, huge plains of lush grassland, glaciers, and unique wildlife not found anywhere else on Earth…

Each country you visit whilst backpacking South America offers up the opportunity to experience the incredible natural and cultural forces unique to that region.

Backpacking South America is generally a cheap endeavour – although it’s not as cheap as Southeast Asia or India. There are some fairly expensive corners of South America that you should avoid if you’re travelling on a budget .

You will fall in love with South America (and maybe a person or two along the way). So let’s dive into some South America travel itineraries and backpacking routes for your trip.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking South America

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When making a South America backpacking itinerary, remember that travel distances are HUGE, internal flights expensive, and sometimes you want to stay somewhere longer than anticipated.

So choose your South America backpacking route carefully. Unlike other continents, how much time you have really matters; you simply can’t do all of it.

If you only have 2 or 3 weeks for travelling South America, forget about seeing the whole continent. I recommend sticking to one country and devoting your energy to exploring it properly. 

In one month, you could explore some countries closer to each other. You could visit Bolivia and Lake Titicaca in Peru for example. It’s good to have room for spontaneity in your South America travel itinerary too.

2 Week South America Travel Itinerary – The West Coast Appetizer

You’ll have to keep moving to make this itinerary happen in 2 weeks, but I believe in you!

Start your backpacking South America itinerary in Colombia by visiting Cartagena . After a few days, head to Santa Marta , the jump-off point for Minca – a charming mountain town – and Tayrona National Park.

Get a bit off the beaten path, and head east to Cabo de la Vela (where the desert meets the sea) and Punta Galinas , where you can feast on fresh seafood along the Caribbean coast. Doubling back to Cartagena , head to nearby Playa Blanca and Tolú (mangrove) before heading to Islas de San Bernardo (white-sanded islands).

Or you could start in Lima , Peru. Explore the city for a day or two before heading to the Nazca Lines , Arequipa , and Colca Canyon . 

Then head to Cusco in the Andes. Take a few days to get used to the altitude before setting off on a multi-day trek to Macchu Picchu.

Alternatively, start in Buenos Aires . Then you can head south to trek in Patagonia . In southern Argentina and Chile, you can do the world-famous Torres del Paine circuit . 2 weeks is cutting it fine but – if you hustle – you could pull it off.

In 2 weeks, you can get a good taste of Colombia, Ecuador , or Bolivia . Don’t miss out on the Salt Flats . 

1 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Starter

With 1 month, you can make an epic backpacking South America itinerary. If you want to explore more than one country in South America, you’re gonna need more than 3 weeks. 

For surf bums, you could easily spend a month heading beach to beach from Southern Peru all the way to Colombia , in 1 month. Or you could do 2 weeks in Argentina followed by 2 weeks of hiking in Chilean Patagonia . 

If it were me, larger countries like Argentina, Chile , and Brazil are better to explore with more than 1 month. You can do it but you will spend a long time on bus journeys, so I would just stick to one area. 

Southeast Brazil is a good choice for 1 month on a South America itinerary: travel from Rio de Janeiro all the way south to Florianópolis and hit up everything in between. Bear in mind that you’ll probably want to stay in Rio AND Floripa longer than you expect.

Highlights of this route include exploring the megapolis of São Paulo , idyllic getaways of Ilha Grande and Paraty , eco-friendly and laidback Curitiba , and the crazy nightclubs of Balneário Camboriú .

Or, you could fly into Ecuador and spend 3 weeks exploring here: stay at a great hostel in Guayaquil before heading to Montañita . In Montañita you can party and surf to your heart’s content. Head North towards Bahia de Caraquez and Canoa for surf towns that are more off the beaten path. 

Next head to the mountains, stopping first in Quito . There are some excellent treks in the Ecuadorian Andes .

If you have time, definitely hit up the Volcano Loop trail on the outskirts of Cotopaxi National Park . A trip to the jungle around Puyo is recommended as well. Then head for a week of trekking in Colombia .

3 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Great South America Main Course

3 months backpacking South America, eh? Hell yes!

I recommend flying into Lima, Peru unless you know you want to start in the north (Brazil or Colombia) or further south (Argentina or Chile). Explore Lima and the coast before heading to the Andes. There Machu Picchu awaits in all of its glory.

Definitely do a trek to the famous Inca city! (More on hiking in South America later). From here, you can either drop down on the other side of the Andes and explore the Amazon basin or you can head south to Bolivia and eventually Argentina and Patagonia .

Alternatively, you can slowly start making your way north via the Coast. You could spend a month (or more) in Ecuador, Colombia, or Brazil respectively.

Personally, I started off in Buenos Aires then went north to Brazil and Colombia . The distances were truly massive. I’m talking 30-hour bus rides (on comfortable buses I must say). 

Travelling in South America is never a quick affair, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

6 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Full 3-Course Latin America

Life has brought you to the fortunate crossroads of having 6 months to travel South America? Good on you! 

With a 6-month backpacking South America itinerary, you have the luxury of really being able to take your damn time. To see multiple countries, it’s a practical choice to begin your journey either in the north or the south to avoid backtracking.

With a 6 month itinerary, you can explore many South American countries in depth. I’ll be honest with you, the itinerary shown on the map is really fucking ambitious. But hopefully, it gives you an idea of what crossing this vast continent would look like.

Starting your journey in Rio de Janerio or São Paulo might be a bit of a rough landing, though you will be a primed bad-ass by the time it comes to move on to another country. Other options are starting with some days in Buenos Aires , in Argentina, and Chile, in the south.

You could be surfing it up on the coast of Ecuador one day, and be in the mountains of Peru several days (and many bus rides) later. I advise taking a chunk of your time to really explore and get off the beaten path in top destinations like Brazil , Colombia , and Bolivia .

Having 6 months or more to go backpacking truly means you have a total blank slate to work with. So get ready to write your own beautiful backpacking destiny!

Each country in South America has something unique and profoundly exciting for backpackers. But they also have some common themes: they are Spanish speaking (minus Portuguese in Brazil), they have stunning natural beauty, and some of the nicest people you will meet whilst travelling. So finding the best places to backpack in South America has a lot to do with your own interests.

Maybe you’ll explore the epic snow-capped peaks of Patagonia in Argentina and Chile. Party with beautiful people at the Carnival in Brazil. 

Trek to the Lost City in Colombia. Experience the sun-drenched deserts of Bolivia and the colourful Rainbow Mountains of Peru.

Backpacking through South America truly is a life-changing journey through one of the planet’s most fascinating landmasses. When you visit South America, you can be sure that it will be some of the most fun you will have in your life.

South America is a vast continent on the move. The number of people travelling to South America is increasing every year. Whilst the cost of living in South America remains quite low, each country requires a different budget for travellers.

Once you begin to discover a few of the South American countries, you will be entranced by the jaw-dropping landscapes, fascinating history, vibrant culture, and awesome food.

Let’s take a look at the countries that make backpacking in South America so damn special.

Backpacking Brazil

Brazil is, hands down, one of South America’s most dynamic countries. It’s all about the extremes. Whether it’s the parties, the people, or nature, the vibrations run through everything – and connect everyone.

Backpacking in Brazil offers up sick surf beaches, fun-loving locals, insane parties, and landscapes that would make even the most seasoned traveller say “no shit, mate, look at that!”

Of course, the Brazilian festival Carnival is legendary – and for good reason. Get your mind blown on the Brazilian side of  Iguaçu Falls , visit the Amazon , drink a Caipirinha on the beach! Plus Brazil’s home to big up-and-coming cities like Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, and Natale.

And when I say ‘extreme’, I mean extreme : Brazil is absolutely MASSIVE and covers nearly half (47%) of South America’s landmass! That should give you an idea of how big it is.

But, more importantly, it gives you a better idea of how much diversity Brazil has on offer. In fact, there’s a lot going for Brazil that you may not be aware of.

For example, trekking probably isn’t the first thing that pops into your mind when you think about backpacking through Brazil. It’s a shame because Brazil has truly gorgeous trails spread throughout the country. It’s also home to Iguazu, one of the most incredible waterfalls on Earth.

The best hiking opportunities are usually found in Brazil’s national parks  (parques nacionais ). Brazil has over 70 national parks and – in terms of beauty – these can contend with any other on Earth.

What to Know Before Visiting Brazil

• Don’t miss out on… Florianopolis. The Brazilians favourite place to visit for a reason. It’s chilled, safe, and gorgeous. You plan to stay in Floripa for a week, it grabs you by the balls, and you get stuck for months.
• Keep an eye out for… Travel distances. Don’t be fooled: they’re way longer than they seem on the map. Give yourself plenty of time to get from A to B.
• The coolest hostel is… Hostel do Morro . In one of my favourite destinations in Brazil, this hostel is a true nature immersion. In the “mato”, with sea view and monkeys visiting. A true good vibes place!
• The best food is found in… Belo Horizonte. There is an amazing energy to this place; everyone hangs out on the streets, eating and drinking at plastic tables, all night long.

Backpacking Colombia

Whilst South America has many countries that I consider to have the full package , Colombia is the most complete. It’s a relatively small country. So considering the scale of epic surf, neverending parties, untouched jungle, happening cities, and towering mountains, Colombia is a reason for backpackers to keep travelling!

Cali, Cartagena, Bogotá , and Medellín are a few major cities in Colombia where you can really let loose. Go and have some extraordinary conversations with the locals about life in Latin America and not taking life too seriously.

Is Colombia safe ? Perhaps your mum would love to know. Hell yes, it is !

As much as Colombianos are ready for the disassociation with Pablo Escobar, it’s hard not to mention the impact that he made on the country and the South American continent as a whole. But his reign of terror is over.

Modern-day Colombia couldn’t be more different from the days when narco-traffickers ruled the country. Visiting Medellín now vs 20 years ago is a COMPLETELY different experience. The Medellín of today is a great experience.

Colombia is for adventure junkies and nature lovers too. The northern terminus of the Andes Mountains ends here and you can take your treks into the deep jungle in Colombia’s National Parks .

What to Know Before Visiting Colombia

• Don’t miss out on… Carnival in Barranquilla. Most of the time, this industrial town is overlooked by travellers. But for one week of the year, this place goes NUTS.
• Keep an eye out for… how difficult the trek to Cuidad Perdida is. It’s long, treacherous, and hot as shit, but absolutely worth the effort in the end. The Lost City is one of the best places to visit in South America.
• The coolest hostel is… Viajero Santa Marta Hostel . Great location and has lazy and peaceful vibes. Amazing rooftop and activities to connect and meet other travelers.
• The best food is found in… the local restaurants. Look for the menu del dia to feel like you’ll never need to eat again.

Backpacking Ecuador

Ecuador might be small but it certainly packs a punch. I spent 3 months backpacking in Ecuador and could easily spend many more.

The diversity is incredible and it’s a great place to experience Andean Highland culture. The people who live in the Andes have a distinct and ancient culture rooted in mountain life. They even speak another language called Quechua . It’s a relatively safe country , and isn’t ruined by mass tourism.

In addition to staying in colonial cities like Quito , Ecuador’s natural landscape is the biggest draw. You can spend weeks or months exploring the coast before heading to the mountains and vice versa. Towering over the shore, volcanoes, waterfalls, and massive snow-capped mountains all make incredible trekking routes.

Surfing reigns supreme on the Ecuadorian coast. It attracts surfers from all over the globe. Even if you’re a beginner, it’s a great place to catch your first waves. Towns like  Montañita and Canoa are famous surf beaches and party hotspots.

If you have some extra cash in your budget, you can visit The Galápagos Islands . But be warned – this is not a cheap endeavour, especially for excursions like diving (though it is AWESOME). So prepare yourself to shell out some cash!

Then there is the Amazon Basin of Ecuador. The Amazon region is what helps make Ecuador one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. The Amazon is best explored by boat with a local guide and is bound to be the adventure of a lifetime!

What to Know Before Visiting Ecuador

• Don’t miss out on… exploring the highlands and Cotopaxi National Park. Easily accessed from Quito and totally epic.
• You know what’s overrated … Montañita. It’s not all it use to be and is mostly catered to foreigners who want to get wasted and high. If you want real Ecuadorian culture, there are better places nearby.
• The coolest hostel is… Casa del Sol . Relaxed vibe at a few steps from the beach. Close enough to go party and far enough to have a good sleep. THE place for yoga and Surf.
• The best food is found in… the small almuerzo (lunch) cafes found across the country.

Backpacking Peru

Ah Peru. Backpacking Peru is the essence of travelling in South America. Though tourism has spiked in Peru in recent years, there is still plenty of magic to be found here.

The cost of backpacking Peru is a little higher than you might expect. Expect to pay between $30-40 USD a day whilst travelling here. (But more about the cost of backpacking South America later.)

Peru has a super long coastline dotted with prime surf beaches and scuba diving sites. In the Andes lies a whole other form of beauty.

I mean, who isn’t aware of Machu Picchu and hiking the Inca Trail ? Besides the obvious, there is much, much more to the Peruvian Andes than Machu Picchu. Although, you still have to go there!

Peru has some truly fascinating colonial cities as well, including Cuenca and Cuzco, which is the gateway city to Machu Picchu. The off-the-beaten-path potential in Peru is enormous.

Check out the Rainbow Mountains to see nature at its most colourful. Hike the majestic  Cordillera Huayhuash . Explore Colca Canyon and sleep out under a billion stars.

If you want a truly magical experience, there are many eco-lodges in Peru that are nestled in the best nature spots, from the Amazon jungle to the Andes mountain range.

Wherever you decide to travel in Peru, be sure that it will be a highlight of your South America backpacking adventure.

What to Know Before Visiting Peru

• Don’t miss out on… a motorcycle journey through the Sacred Valley outside Cuzco. It’s definitely worth staying in Cuzco a little longer for this.
• You know what’s overrated… the Inca Trail. Go for the less-trod Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu instead.
• The coolest hostel is… Banana’s Adventure Hostel . In an unreal location (an oasis in a desert) this is a sociable and relaxed vibes hostel. With a great rooftop plus a lovely garden with hammocks, and an outdoor pool.
• The best food is found in… Lima. This city is full of cafes, local lunch spots, and street food vendors. The best are in Barranco and Miraflores. Pig out on ceviche !

Backpacking Bolivia

Backpacking in Bolivia offers up a glimpse of what South America was like 30 years ago. It’s a country looking to the future in many ways whilst still having one foot firmly rooted in the tradition of the past.

Expect super friendly locals, dramatic desert and mountain landscapes, and the kind of low prices which make the dirtbag within us very happy. You could easily get by on $20-25 a day here, and even less by roughing it a bit.

Bolivia is home to plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities including the Road of Death , which, in essence, is a road down through the mountains in which people ride bicycles to the bottom at top speed. The ride goes on for at least 30 kilometres and it is straight down. Can you guess why it’s called the Road of Death yet?

Aside from the high-risk adventure activities, Bolivia is safe for the most part as well.

World-class trekking is abundant in the Bolivian Andes. If you love to hike, all the more reason to visit Bolivia. Bring along a good sleeping bag as temperatures can plummet at night.

La Paz has the best hostels (particularly for partiers) and is a cool city to base yourself in. Lake Titicaca is breathtaking, however, it has become far too touristy – I personally can’t deal with that many people taking selfies. I don’t blame the locals as they need to make a living. Just the way it has been done is unfortunate.

The Salt Flats are also cool AF. Okay, admittedly it’s pretty touristy too, but it’s still worth a visit.

What to Know Before Visiting Bolivia

• Don’t miss out on… the Salar de Uyuni. Yes, everyone who comes to Bolivia does this and, yes, it’s touristy. Regardless, it’s still in-fuckin-credible.
• Keep an eye out for… the altitude. Some people fly directly to La Paz from sea level and get sick almost immediately. At 3640 meters, La Paz is the highest major city in the world.
• The coolest hostel is… Wild Rover La Paz . A dynamic and festive hostel. The perfect place to start your Bolivian experience connecting with other travellers. Great location in the central area.
• The best food is found in… La Paz. This is the epicenter of Bolivia’s newly emerging food culture.

Backpacking Chile

There are no half measures while Backpacking Chile. From trekking through gorgeous glacial national parks to exploring the martian bone-dry Atacama desert , you’re all in for one hell of an experience.

There are 36 National Parks in Chile ; all of them are beautiful and unique in their own way. Chile is also home to Easter Island , one of the most mysterious places on the planet.

Like Argentina, Chilean Patagonia is a paradise for trekkers and adventure types – though it does take some effort to reach the places you want to go trekking in. That said, the journey is well worth it; experiencing some of the planets last truly wild places is an indescribable feeling that you can only understand by doing it!

Most backpackers will start their backpacking journey in Santiago. But you can come to Chile from one of its borders in the South (as I did).

Oh yeah, one more thing: Chilean wine is cheap and it is damn good! Do you need more reasons?

What to Know Before Visiting Chile

• Don’t miss out on… Patagonia, and not just the usual spots. Chilean Patagonia is vastly unexplored, especially the fjords. Look out for whales, dolphins, penguins, and elephant seals.
• Keep an eye out for… fire bans in Torres del Paine. A lot of nature has been threatened because of dickhead backpackers using gas burners, despite warnings.
• The coolest hostel is… MaPatagonia Hostel . Near a beautiful lake, this place has what you need. Kitchen facilities, a nice big garden, some cats, and a jacuzzi! There is also a fireplace for those cold nights.
• The best food is found in… Santiago. Staying in Santiago will unlock the most culinary options, including the cheap street food stalls.

Backpacking Argentina

Viva Argentina!

Backpacking Argentina is one for the ages. Welcome to the land of wine, excessive meat, football, tango, incredibly passionate people, and the final frontier – Patagonia.

Argentina is an immense country with very distinct regions. Eat to your heart’s content, party harder than you ever have before, and fall deeply in love.

You’ll probably land in Buenos Aires , arguably the cultural capital of all of South America.

Unquestionably, you’re going to find incredible hostels in Buenos Aires and reasons to stay. But don’t stay too long!

Rosario and Cordoba are cities like Buenos Aires but, in my opinion, better. They’re a perfect place to head to if you want to steer clear of the heavily populated capital.  Mendoza is the wine region home to the “ best wine in the world ” (according to Argentinos).

Further south lies Patagonia : one of my favourite places on Earth, and home to many Argentinian National Parks . Patagonia is a truly expansive, desolate wilderness area where the weather is harsh and civilization is few and far between.

Trek mountains and glaciers, or sea kayak around them,. There, you could go days without seeing many (if any) backpackers! Now THAT’S the dream.

Staying at an Argentine mountain hut (refugio) is a wonderful experience not to be missed. Few who travel to Argentina manage to make it as far as  Tierra del Fuego (the Land of Fire). Visit one of the most dramatic places in Argentina with its long summer days and epic arctic landscapes.

Speaking of the arctic, you can arrange trips to Antarctica from Ushuaia ! This would be the adventure of a lifetime but it’s by no means cheap.

What to Know Before Visiting Argentina

• Don’t miss out on… El Chaltén, which is the base for seeing some of the most dramatic peaks on Earth: Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy.
• You know what’s overrated… La Boca in Buenos Aires. These much-hyped multi-coloured houses are pretty rundown and actually quite dangerous, I strongly suggest you avoid it. The whole area feels like a tourist trap. There are much better things to do in Buenos Aires .
• The coolest hostel is… America del Sur Hostel (El Calafate). Cozy, super social, and with an insane view of the lake, the town, and beautiful sunsets. Great place to chill, and work (if you need to).
• The best food is found in… your neighbour’s personal asado . Nothing beats grilling grade-A Argentinian beef with some locals.
• The official exchange rate is NOT THE EXCHANGE RATE . Because of the fluctating exchange rate, many of the locals withdraw their cash by using what is referred to as a “blue dollar rate” from Western Union. This way gives you 50% more pesos than withdrawing pesos from an ATM or exchanging currency.

Backpacking Uruguay

Not many travellers end up backpacking in Uruguay. There are a few reasons why:

• It’s small
• It’s out of the way
• There’s not a ton to do

All of the above are true to some extent: Uruguay is not overflowing with adventurous activities or jaw-dropping sights. But let me tell you, they have some of the best quality of living in South America.

One of the perks about Uruguay is you don’t HAVE to do anything here. People are friendly and, compared to some chaos you find in other areas of the continent, it’s pretty chill. The beautiful coast is the perfect place to get away from the usual backpacking South America route and to avoid traveller’s burnout .

Outside of Montevideo , there are nice beach towns worth crashing at; Punta del Diablo is the quintessential lazy surfer town. Punta del Este is fun in the summer if you like partying. Colonia del Sacramento is an old colonial outpost and UNESCO heritage – although it is admittedly more of a day trip rather than a base.

Oh but here’s the kicker: weed is legalised. Yes, Uruguay is famous for allowing the smoking of the devil’s lettuce. And the quality of it is surprisingly good.

Lots of locals keep a weed garden on their balconies. Perhaps your hostel in Montevideo will have one?

Head to Uruguay if you want to chill out and do your own thing. It’s easy to travel to Brazil and Argentina from there too.

What to Know Before Visiting Uruguay

• Don’t miss out on… Punta del Diablo. This is laid-back surfer town evades most backpackers. It is arguably one of the best beach towns in South America.
• You know what’s overrated… Punta del Este. This place literally exists for the sake of Argentinians on holiday. In the off-season, it’s empty.
• The coolest hostel is… La Brújula Hostel . It’s near the beach, eco-friendly, has a family vibe, and is great to meet new people. This is a gem next to the sea.
• The best food is found in… Montevideo. Can’t beat a giant chivito after you’ve got the munchies!

Backpacking Venezuela

Venezuela is a truly incredible country. With towering mountains, steaming forests, endless beaches , and just enough danger to keep you on your toes, this country is every budding adventurer’s dream destination.

A Disclaimer on Visiting Venezuela

Unfortunately, due to the political situation in Venezuela , The Broke Backpacker absolutely  does not condone visiting the country right now . It is simply not safe and it would be irresponsible to even attempt to Venezuela at present.

Unless you somehow have absolutely  solid and trustworthy contacts on the ground , Venezuela is not the place to travel for the foreseeable future. We do not have any contacts to give out.

That being said, there are many team members at The Broke Backpacker that hold a special place for Venezuela in their hearts. For this reason, we are leaving this information available to you, our readers, as an homage to a country we love. We can’t wait for the day that it will be safe to visit again.

Backpacking Venezuela has a truly terrible reputation. Don’t get me wrong, travelling Venezuela has been dangerous in recent years: this is a country where you need to keep both eyes on your gear, watch who you’re with, and be on the lookout for iffy situations before they get the chance to rear their ugly head.

Backpacking in Venezuela is, in my opinion, one of the last great adventures out there. Plus it’s one of the cheapest countries in the world to backpack in.

Venezuela is a mysterious country. It attracts adventurers looking for a raw adventure.

It’s a country yet to be polluted by heavy tourism with incredible landscapes of mountains, forests, lakes, and caves. It is a kind of Shangri-La for adventurers and extreme sports lovers.

A South American backpacking trip to Venezuela is getting into the wild. To feel like the old explorers, Venezuela will not disappoint you. But backpacking Venezuela is not for the faint-hearted: this is a veteran explorer country.

What to Know Before Visiting Venezuela

• Don’t miss out on… Mt. Roraima – the highest tabletop mountain in the world; an incredible place to explore. Sometimes you feel like you’re walking on an island in the sky.
• Keep an eye out for… the seasons when visiting Angel Falls. When it’s dry, the falls are actually quite weak (it’s more like a trickle).
• The coolest hostel is… El Sofá Caracas . Safe, quiet, cozy place in the big city. You’ll feel at home instantly. And they have a unique boat pool to chill when it gets too hot.
• The best food is found in… the buffet places where you pay by the weight of your plate. A little goes a long way here and you won’t be disappointed!

Getting Off the Beaten Path in South America

South America is totally full of wild places, tiny villages, far-flung settlements, lonesome valleys, sparsely inhabited jungle… Point being, there are plenty of great places to get off the beaten path . With a little motivation, you may well find yourself cutting your own path and writing your own backpacking destiny, one adventure at a time.

Explore the national park systems of South America as much as you can. Investigate the little interesting-looking food stalls where all the locals are queuing up.

Don’t rely on a guidebook of popular places. In South America, those tiny towns in the middle of nowhere are where the real culture is, and the real adventures. All you need is a bus ticket…

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

You can make your South America backpacking route totally unique. No matter what things you get up to, they’re going to leave a big print on your heart. But here are some things I definitely recommend considering planning for your itinerary .

1. Explore Patagonia

Patagonia is still one of the last untouched wildernesses on the planet. Not everyone gets to experience this in their lifetime! In addition to the usual superlative locations, like Cerro Torre and Torres del Paine, there are heaps to discover off-trail.

2. Party hard at Carnival

It’s the biggest party on the planet! Grab yo’ body paint, yo’ finest feathers, whatever else you can get your hands on, and join the festivities!

You won’t ever forget the time you spent Carnival in South America. The carnivals in Bahia, Rio, and Barranquilla are particularly good.

3. Explore the Salts Flats of Uyuni

It’s one of the most unique places on the planet and a highlight of any South America backpacking trip. Get ready to be wowed by this alien landscape.

I know broke backpackers usually cringe hard at the idea of an organised tour (because I’m one of them) but the Salt Flats is one that’s really worth shelling out for.

4. Find your own secret beaches

It wouldn’t be a proper backpacking South America itinerary without some beach time! Every kind of beach imaginable is found on the continent.

From tropical slices in Brazil to surfer’s paradises in Ecuador to even fjords in Chile, you won’t be lacking in choices. There are plenty of them secret spots that make those magical days. Take a beer, bring your mates, get busy.

5. Check out Medellín

Medellín is one of the most popular cities to visit in South America right now. The choice between Medellín or Bogota has never been easier.

It’s fun, safe, comfortable, and (most impressively) completely different than it was before. Medellín has shed its violent past and is ready to host the next wave of backpackers.

6. Visit Machu Picchu

I mean, you’re reading a backpacking South America guide: I know you already know about this one. It is the place that attracts most people to visit South America… but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t worth visiting.

You can hike the Inca Trail like everyone else. But if you want to visit Machu Picchu in an alternative way, try one of the other Inca trails like Salkantay Trek.

7. Hike in the Andes

The Andes are one of the greatest mountain chains in the world, known mostly for hosting the aforementioned Machu Picchu and the gargantuan Aconcagua. But there is more to these mountains than just these popular destinations: the highlands of Ecuador, Cordillera Huayhush in Peru, the Cordillera Real in Bolivia are all stunning. Even Colombia gets a slice of the pie at Cocuy National Park.

8. A South American

Hey, most backpackers will vouch for love and sex on the road being something memorable to take part in…

They love, and they love passionately. And the sex… well, maybe you’ll find out.

9. Get “stuck” somewhere

South America is full of sticky places AKA places where you get stuck for months on end. Florianópolis, La Paz, Medellín, Mancora… All of these locations start off as a simple stop on your South America backpacking route but turn into temporary homes.

Don’t fight it! Find your sticky place and stay awhile.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

South America has a wide range of budget accommodation options for backpackers. Airbnbs are fantastic for private rooms if you’re travelling as a couple or as a group.

For solo travellers, when you are not passing the night from the comfort of your tent in the Andes or with a Couchsurfing host , you’ll likely be booking hostels.

Whether you just need a place to lay your head or a spot to meet fellow backpackers like yourself, hostel life is clearly where it’s at… In fact, I love South American hostels, even travelling with my partner, you get perks in a hostel that you don’t get in a hotel or Airbnb.

I’ve had some of the best nights of my life in them and met some of the best people in my life. The South American countries are home to some of the best hostels in the world .

• Best Hostels in Sao Paulo
• Best Hostels in Cusco
• Best Hostels in Cartagena
• Best Hostels in Mendoza
• Best Hostels in Lima
• Best Hostels in Medellin
• Best Hostels in Quito
• Best Hostels in Salvador de Bahia
• Best Hostels in Santiago
• Best Hostels in Valparaiso

Insider tip: If you want to see all your hostel options to visitbackp South America, Booking.com is the perfect one-stop-shop to book hostels. You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

It is the common belief that backpacking in South America is dirt cheap. In some places this is true, but it doesn’t go for the entire continent.

But fear not! Travelling South America on a budget can definitely be done.

Due to the nature of Patagonia being one of the most remote areas on earth, expect higher travel costs than the rest of South America. Peru also takes some navigating in order to travel on a tight budget.

Brazil is one of the most expensive countries in South America. The cost of living in Brazil is higher and it is notorious for jacking up accommodation prices during the high season.

With a few travel tips up your sleeve, you will save a ton of money and have the time of your life. Bring your  haggle game  whilst backpacking through Latin America to ensure you get the best possible price for things, including accommodation. South Americans love smooth talkers so keep it playful but don’t get too cheeky.

Taking long-distance buses, buying beer and drugs, paying entrance fees to national parks… these things add up fast. But sometimes you have to shell out the dough in order to do the things you want. Overnight buses are a good way to save some money.

Remember to always leave a little extra wiggle room in your budget so you can go scuba diving or go on a trek that you have been dreaming about!

Daily Budgets for South America

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay on a daily basis on a backpacking South America trip…

Travel Tips for Broke Backpackers in South America

Hey, all those dollaridoodles add up to more fun times. So saving whatever you can on your journey means you can be on the journey… for longer. So here are a few budget travel tips for South America :

• Camp : With plenty of untouched beaches, forests, stunning countryside, and far-flung jungle, South America is a great place to carry a good backpacking tent . Camping saves you money and can help you get off of the beaten path.
• Cook your own food: Travel with a  portable backpacking stove  and cook your own food to save some serious cash whilst backpacking across South America. If you plan to do some overnight hiking trips or camping on the beach, having a backpacking stove will be a great asset.
• Haggle:  Haggle as much as you can. You can always get a better price for things, especially while in local markets. Learning Spanish will go a long way!
• Couchsurf:  South Americans are awesome. Get to know some! Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see the real continent. When using Couchsurfing, be sure to send personalized messages to your potential host. A generic copy-and-paste message is much more likely to get turned down. Make yourself stand out.
• Hitchhike:  Although some countries are friendlier than others, hitchhiking across South America is common practice, so you won’t struggle too much to find a ride. Speaking at least a little Spanish will go a long way though. You want to explain exactly what you’re doing and where you want to go.

Why Should You Travel to South America with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine places… So do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but together we CAN make a difference. I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

You know by now that we are talking about an enormous amount of land with regards to the South American continent. Countries in South America near the Equator do not experience distinct seasons. As you start to head south you will find the seasons to be the opposite of what they are in the Northern Hemisphere i.e. winter in June.

Patagonia experiences bitterly cold and windy winters. I do not advise travelling there during the winter unless you are a serious mountaineer and have all the right gear.

Dry season depends on the country. Generally, the cooler months from June to September are the driest in the coastal areas. In the Amazon – given that it is the world’s biggest rainforest – is wet pretty much all year. The Andes are the driest from April – November.

High season for all countries is, without a doubt, from December – February. This is due to holidays occurring over that time and it is also the time when many gringos and locals alike take their holidays. Backpacking in the low or shoulder seasons will definitely make for a cheaper trip, especially with regards to accommodation.

Best Time to Visit – Country Breakdown

Here are the best times to visit South America broken down by country!

Best Months to Travel: September – April

What’s the climate in Brazil like? 

In the south, the hot, wet summer season runs from November – March. In the north, the rainy season is from April – August. In the Amazon, it rains pretty much all year.

If you want to visit during the festival season though, September-March is best.

Best Months to Travel: November – March

What’s the climate in Colombia like?

Generally speaking, travellers should visit Cartagena and the Caribbean coast between November and March when the weather is dry. The rest of the country is good year-round. Bogota, Cali, and Medellin are always pleasant weather-wise.

Best Months to Travel: March – May, September – November

What’s the climate in Ecuador and Peru like? 

Lots and lots of micro-climates in the Ecuador Peru region. But there are some general trends:

• The highlands/Andes are dry from May – September. These are the best months for hiking and visiting Machu Picchu.
• The coast is warm and dry from December – May. This is the best time for the Galápagos.
• The Amazon is always wet and humid as shit.
• The south of Peru is much drier than the north, and Ecuador for that matter.

You’ll need to plan your trip carefully around what you want to see and do.

Best Months to Travel: May – October

What’s the climate in Bolivia like?

The winter season (May – October) is also its dry season, and the best time to visit Bolivia. This means that nights can be very cold, especially when you’re at higher altitudes. Although Bolivia is generally drier than its neighbours, it stills gets dumped on in the wet, summer season.

Best Months to Travel: March – April, October – November

What’s the climate in Chile like? 

Summers in Chile are generally the high season. That being said, this may not be the best time to visit. Prices are at their highest, the Atacama Desert is a furnace, and the winds are VERY strong in Patagonia.

Like almost anywhere, the shoulder months (October – November & March – April) are better.

Best Months to Travel:  October – April.

What’s the climate in Argentina and Uruguay like?

Summer for most of the country is from December – February. In the north, the summers can see rain and temperatures that soar to almost unbearable. In the south and Patagonia, summers are dry(ish) and pleasant.

The winters, obviously, are extremely cold in the south. Whereas the north generally has pretty mild winters.

What to Pack for South America

Travelling through South America is a lot easier if you have the right gear. A thorough backpacking South America packing list goes a long way – literally.

On every adventure, there are 6 things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

South America IS a safe place to go backpacking. Is backpacking in South America safe all the time? 

Hell no. But nowhere in the world is safe 100% of the time. Does that mean we let it stop us?

Hell no. 

In recent years, security in South America is increasing. Using the common sense safety rules of backpacking is usually enough here. 

The thing with South America is understanding your surroundings and self-awareness. Coordinating your safety in Rio de Janeiro is completely different than hiking the Inca Trail. 

Robberies are rare and could happen to anyone – in any country. Sometimes people in desperate circumstances are forced to do bad things. They see a foreigner and they see a chance to temporarily relieve the stress of their situation. 

Odds are, you should be just fine. If ever you run into a hold-up situation just give them what they want. 

Your iPhone and wallet aren’t worth dying over, ever! But it’s worth hiding your money well just in case .

Political wobbles are pretty common. Due to the political situation in Venezuela right now, this is probably the most dangerous country in Latin America. I hate to say it but the situation is what it is.

In general, being out late, drunk, and/or alone is a recipe for trouble. Always take a taxi home at night, even in a group.

Do know which neighbourhoods you should avoid too, especially in major cities – even during the daytime. Ask the locals which these are. There’s no real reason to head into these areas anyway, but it’s worth noting so you don’t stumble into the wrong places.

• Is Peru Safe?
• Is Argentina Safe?
• Is Chile Safe?
• Is Brazil Safe?

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll in South America

South Americans love to party! They start the party late and they don’t stop until the sun is way up.

Of course, Brazil is very famous for Carnival AKA the biggest party on the planet . But it’s a big deal in most South American countries – so you’ll find great parties everywhere.

The backpacker circuit is notoriously rowdy. Traveller hubs like Cusco, Buenos Aires, Montañita, Mancora, La Paz, and Medellín are legendary for their nightlife.

It is very easy to meet people, stay up all night, and fall in love with a sexy South American. Much of the continent is LGBTQ+ traveller friendly too!

Alcohol is freely available, freely consumed, and good quality too. I’m telling you, I’ve had beer in South America which puts Germany to shame.

South America is stoner-friendly too! Weed is legal or decriminalized for recreational use in many places – some countries are more relaxed than others. It’s best to ask the locals how it’s currently being handled where you are.

Cocaine is just about everywhere; particularly in Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. But be aware, this isn’t the stuff you find back home – it’s much purer. One line is enough to keep you up all night.

To find drugs on the road, just ask a local to help you. Don’t go out alone looking to score in strange places and don’t give cops a reason to shake you down.

Ayahuasca retreats are gaining popularity as well. But remember, it is a ceremonial spiritual medicine of indigenous people. If you do want to try it, make sure you’re doing it with a real shaman, for real reasons; it’s not like acid and not a drug just to get mindless with.

Staying Healthy in South America

Travellers should be properly vaccinated before backpacking in South America. Consult a medical professional before travelling about which shots you should get.

You should have all the usual travel vaccinations before heading out: hepatitis A & B, typhoid, tetanus, etc. Rabies is also recommended particularly if you’re going to the rural areas or parts of the jungle. You don’t want to mess around with that one because it can be really nasty.

It is worth checking if you need the Yellow fever vaccine before entering some countries. In some places, it is only recommended.

It’s also worth noting that in most places in South America, the water isn’t fit for consumption. The best travel water bottles have a filter.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting South America

Travelling without insurance in South America is risky. I broke my back in Brazil and will be happy to tell you why GOOD travel insurance is so important.

So consider getting travel insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure. You don’t want to be struck with a big, unexpected bill, or, worse, to put your health at risk.

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.

Where you will start your trip will be determined by what backpacking route you have chosen. Obviously, if you plan to tackle a specific country, the capital city of that country is a popular starting point and – usually – the logical option.

South America is not the cheapest country to fly to, but you can sometimes bag a cheap direct flight from another major airport. It’s pretty expensive to fly within it too. Unless you are coming by boat to Colombia via the San Blas Islands, you will certainly be arriving by plane.

São Paulo, Lima, Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Rio de Janeiro are all major hubs for South America. Compare the prices between these top destinations, and base your South America itinerary from there.

Entry Requirements for South America

Good news everyone! Most South American nations DO NOT require a visa to visit! This applies to those travelling from the USA, UK, EU, Australia, and most other Western nations.

This is a positive trend in the last few years. A few years ago, travellers sometimes had to apply for (expensive) visas to enter countries like Argentina and Brazil. Luckily, this is no longer the case .

Once you’ve entered the country, you can remain for a period of 90 days visa-free. Extensions are possible but these vary on a country-by-country basis. Most South American governments do not take kindly to people who overstay.

Of course, ALWAYS double-check visa policies before travelling .

City Bus. Local Bus. Long-distance bus. Overnight bus.

That’s right. Buses are the most economical way of getting around South America. Every major capital has buses going to the far reaches of the country.

Local buses are typically super cheap. You can book online but the bus stations are organised really well too.

Taxis are an option within cities and sometimes Uber too, depending on the city. If you opt for a taxi ride, make sure they are legit, set the price beforehand, and haggle the shit out of the driver without being rude.

Flights between countries in South America can be expensive. Internal flights within the country aren’t the cheapest either, though they are cheaper if you buy them while you’re inside the country (you’ll save money on taxes).

As a general rule when backpacking, cheap travel is slow travel . Buses can be slow but as you will be taking many if you are backpacking South America long term, you want to go for the cheapest option.

If you want to go full Che Guevara style you can travel by motorbike pretty easily (and cheaply) in most places in South America. I recommend that you have some experience riding motorbikes before you even think about sauntering into a capital city or down a winding road in the Andes. If you do go the motorcycle route you can be sure that it will be the ride of your life.

Hitchhiking in South America

Travelling by hitchhiking is always an option. Your success will greatly depend on the area and the country; I wouldn’t recommend hitchhiking in a major city or at night.

Hitchhikers aren’t that common in countries like Colombia, mainly due to paranoia about the security situation in the country. Not everyone here is a drug lord that wants to kidnap you for ransom money. You can hitchhike throughout Colombia AND it’s such an awesome experience!

Rural areas of South America are especially impacted by high rates of poverty. Expecting free rides from folks with limited means isn’t morally fantastic. That said, even if you offer the driver a few bucks, it could very well end up being cheaper (and more rewarding) than taking the bus.

I would never assume that the ride is free initially. Always ask to avoid having an awkward scenario in which the driver who picked you up is demanding an unexpected fee. This is when learning Spanish comes in very handy.

Onwards Travel From South America

Your only options for leaving the continent are by boat or by plane. Most likely you will fly out of the country where you are finishing your trip if it makes sense and is the cheapest option. Try to book your flights in advance in order to find the best flight deals .

It is technically possible to cross the Darien Gap to Panama overland. Rumour has it that you can hire a guide for quite a bit of money and cross the Darien on foot.

In the past, this was impossible though due to narco-terrorist/guerrilla activity. May the Gods of Backpacking be with you if you attempt the journey on your own without a guide.

South America is becoming a digital nomad hub. After the pandemic, the boom really: a generally low cost of living, relatively reliable internet, and tons of expat communities.

Medellín is the current front-runner. This city is growing at a RAPID pace and is becoming the apple in every backpacker’s eye.

Plus, Medellín is safer than ever. Lots of people want to stay here for an extended period of time, digital nomads included.

Close behind are larger South American cities like Buenos Aires, São Paulo, and Quito. Being big cities though, you’ll have to overcome higher prices and crime. Safety in Buenos Aires can be sketchy but so can every massive city, right?

Note that, at the moment, most South American countries do not offer a special digital nomad visa.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in South America

Most people who end up living or staying long-term in South America do one of two things: teach English or volunteer.

Teaching English in South America is very popular. Some people make a living out of just going from one city to the next city and hitting up all the English schools in between. Some are accredited though many find success using their own merits.

If you have a TEFL certificate it will be much easier to score teaching gigs in South America. I recommend getting yours with MyTEFL – Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses when you enter the code PACK50  at the checkout.

Volunteering in South America

Volunteering abroad is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good. There are loads of volunteering gigs in South America ranging from protecting the Amazon to teaching in barrios of Buenos Aires.

Arguably, you may need a permit in order to volunteer. But in reality, the continent is pretty chill and this is unlikely to ever be enforced.

I spent a few weeks volunteering in the mountains in Northern Colombia and it was the best way to get to know the land, people, and lifestyle. Finding volunteering opportunities in South America is about learning, building community, and making an impact in a place you visit.

The best way to find volunteer jobs is word of a trustworthy mouth. But programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers , Workaway , and WWOOF help you get your foot in the door of volunteer communities.

They’re a great opportunity for unique experiences and make amazing connections with people. But you do have to stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

If you sign up for Worldpackers with a discount code, memberships are only $39 a year. For that price, it’s often worth giving it a try.

Summing up food in South America is like trying to explain what music is. It’s incredibly diverse and every country, every region, every household has a different definition.

First of all, meat is hard to avoid. They like it juicy, tender, slow-cooked, and accompanying pretty much everything. Especially in the southern part of the continent, Argentina, Uruguay, and South Brazil, the smell of cooking cow is heavy in the air.

The Argentinian way of grilling is Asado . And it’s not just a delicious barbecue – oh no – that’s just the centrepiece. The event is a huge part of the culture.

The vegetarian movement is gaining momentum, though it’s harder in some places than others. In more rural places, you may go hungry if you don’t want to eat meat now and again, but in general, it’s not impossible.

Andean countries like Peru and Bolivia have chronically underrated food scenes. In fact, Peruvian food is often regarded as some of the best in the world. You’ve never felt fresher than after chowing down that ceviche.

In the Amazon, they have a whole different gastronomic world; obviously, everything grows here. There are ingredients that come from the Amazon that just don’t exist anywhere else.

There are strange fruit and vegetables in abundance. Then, of course, the fresh fish comes leaping out of the river, almost directly to your plate. Catching your own fish is never a bad idea either.

The food in the north of South America, like Colombia and Venezuela, is the definition of comfort food. If you’re eating right, you’re going to be gaining a few kilos. Don’t pass on an opportunity to gorge yourself silly.

Street food usually involves lots of deep-fried goodness. But it’s the abuelas that make the best pastries, with oodles of love. And ooh, those arepas… they have a special place on my plate.

The Best Food in South America

Here are some of the best South American foods that you definitely shouldn’t miss out on.

• Feijão (Brazil) – Beany stew for everyday eating.
• Acai (Brazil) – Superfood berry.
• Empanadas – Your trusty stuffed pastry friend.
• Dulce de leche – Just try it… thank me later.
• Asado (Argentina) – Grilled meat with a side of meat.
• Antichucho (Bolivia) – Mmmm… cow’s heart.
• Ceviche (Peru/Chile) – raw but not raw fish, in lemon juice.
• Cuy (Peru) – A large cooked guinea pig.
• Encebollado (Ecuador) – Ecuadorian Grandma’s comfort stew.
• Arepas (Colombia) – Corn pockets to fill your hungry belly.

South America is a very complex continent. Colonization by Western Europeans technically makes it the youngest member of modern civilization. But saying this disregards all the history that came before the “ conquistadors” arrived.

South America has hosted many advanced civilizations like the Incan Empire, whose influence still lasts to this day. Though much of the native culture was lost with the mass killing by said conquistadors .

Long story short: South America is an enormously diverse region, maybe more so than anywhere else. Yes, European culture has largely shaped the entire continent. But indigenous and African cultures are just as important, if not more so.

Northern Brazil is very Afrocentric. This was the first charted part of the continent and ideal for rowing sugarcane. Consequently, it’s the place where all the slaves were brought.

Slavery is over. But it leaves behind a blend of African customs and cultures morphed into Latino culture.

The south, which constitutes Argentina, Chile, and Southern Brazil, is much more European. Aside from the big players – the Spanish and Portuguese – Italians, Germans, and French all settled here following a huge era of migration.

In the Andean countries of Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador you see a lot of indigenous cultures. Some people still live like their ancestors, living in the highlands and tending the land. Though Spanish is still the dominant language, several local languages, like Quecha and Aymara, are still commonly spoken.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all of South America is just an extension of Europe or North America. You’ll miss out on the beautiful subtleties of the region, which make backpacking in South America so wonderful.

A backpacking trip in South America is a unique experience in itself. And within that, there are instance amounts of opportunities to make your South America itinerary different to anyone else who’s travelled here before. Here are some of the best things to add to it:

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Hiking in South America

South America has some of the best hikes in the world . Here are a few iconic options to get your bucket list started:

• Lost City Hike, Colombia : This hike through the Colombian jungle will certainly be a highlight of your South America travel.
• Sierra Nevada de Cocuy, Colombia : Snow in Colombia? Here you can find peaks are as high as 5,330 meters above sea level. If you have your own gear and a good sleeping bag , you can probably do the hike without a guide.
•  Iliniza-Norte, Ecuador . This is a fantastic 2-day trek that does not require any special gear or equipment. If you are planning to tackle Cotopaxi this is a great warm-up. A solid challenge for the dedicated hiker!
• The Salkantay trek, Peru: Hike to Machu Picchu over 4 days and experience the true beauty of the Andes along the way. One of my favorite South American treks for sure.
• The Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru : Truly one of the most stunning areas in Peru. For serious hikers, planning a trek like this is one for the books!
• Hut-to-Hut in Bariloche, Argentina:  Spectacular hike for some of the best views of Nahuel Huapi National Park and its lakes. Tents are optional since you can stay exclusively in the refugios.
• Villa O’Higgins to El Chaltén, Chile/Argentina : One of the greatest ways to experience Patagonia. Walk from Villa O’Higgins in Chile to El Chaltén in Argentina. You’ll see some superlative mountain, forest, and lake scenery along the way.
• Torres Del Paine Circuit, Chile : The hike of all hikes in South America. This epic walk takes 9 – 11 days and passes through some of the most dramatic landscapes one can fathom. A must if you’ve got the time and hiking spirit!

Scuba Diving in South America

You have scuba diving options galore in South America! In general, scuba diving is pricier than it is in other parts of the world but that’s because it’s worth it. If it is something that you really want to do, I say go for it! 

Colombia is probably the cheapest and best place to dive AND get certified in South America. You have Providencia and Santa Catalina (a smaller island to the north) which is home to the third-largest coral reef barrier on Earth and includes over 40 dive sites.

Malpelo is the harder-to-reach version: a jagged rock in the Colombian Pacific, it can only be reached by boat, and divers can only visit here as part of an organized trip. It’s worth the time and money for sure; Malpelo is one of the best places in the world to dive with sharks, including hammerheads, whale, and the rare sun ray shark.

People have reported schools of up to 500 sharks around Malpelo. That’s right. 500!

Peru and Ecuador both have some decent diving right off their coasts. The diving around the Galápagos Islands is world-class, but it will cost you a fortune go diving there.

If you truly want to have the scuba diving adventure of a lifetime, I highly recommend joining a Liveaboard trip.

• Liveaboard the Galapagos
• Liveaboard Colombia

Surfing in South America

Surfing is the number one sport on South America’s coast. From Peru to Brazil, backpackers and locals are coming together and shredding!

Peru is home to the longest left-breaking wave in the world . You can literally ride a wave for five minutes!

The Pacific Coast is dotted with funky surf towns, where the main activities revolve around the waves and the nightlife. There are a plethora of surf schools in every country. Often these surf schools offer Spanish classes as well if you are wanting to double down (which I highly suggest!).

It is easy to fall in love with the surfing lifestyle. But be careful, you might just fall in love with the whole scene. I wouldn’t blame you for a second.

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Here are the questions I get asked the most about how to backpack South America.

Is backpacking South America safe?

Yes. Backpacking South America is safe. Just bear in mind that crime rates are higher than in some other areas of the world. But by following standard safety procedures, there’s no reason why that crime should affect you. Be sensible, show people plenty of respect, and look after your friends.

How are the bus journeys in South America?

The long-distance buses are generally top quality and comfortable. Just be aware that distances on the map can be deceiving and journeys can be long so bring plenty of water, food, something to keep you warm in the baltic aircon, and probably some toilet paper too.

Is travelling South America as a woman possible?

Absolutely! Not only is it possible, it’s awesome. Do remember that, unfortunately, women do have to consider safety as a factor more so than men, especially after dark. But with that in mind, prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

How are South Americans so damn sexy?

There are too many reasons. Just go and spark up conversation with them and find out for yourself. Beware though, you’re likely to fall completely, madly, deeply in love.

Backpacking South America can be one hell of a party at times. Take it from me, it can be easy to get carried away.

You can make a positive impact on people when we travel and South America is the perfect place to do that. Try to spend your money in places where the experience is mutually rewarding.

When buying a local craft, be fair to the person who spent countless hours crafting it. Pay people their worth and contribute to the local economies as much as possible.

If you visit small or indigenous communities, be respectful: they are normal folks just living their lives.  Backpacking South America – or any region for that matter – often illuminates some of the great socio-economic inequalities of the world. Never take it for granted that you are healthy and financially able to go travelling.

Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it. Most of all have the time of your life and spread the love!

Well, amigos, the time has come for me to send you on your travellin’ way. Armed with your budget travel knowledge, on you go!

Your South America backpacking trip awaits. Have a few cold ones for me, yeah?

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30 Comments

Great post, loved the detail and enthusiasm you have for South America. I am saving up to travel from northern Colombia all the way down the west to Patagonia and then back up the other side (yes I am aware it will take the best part of a year). I wondered if you had any tips on the best time of year to start this adventure?

Plan your time with the weather and seasons in mind! Have a great time.

Is traveling to brazil unwise right now because of the covid situation? Has it become more unsafe because of the covid situation? It’s been really difficult to find solid information, and making a decision wether to visit or not has been quite difficult. Thanks for the otherwise wonderful post! Super informative.

informative post . best of luck

Hi Kami, glad you liked the article!

Very nice blog, congratulations I found a cheaper way to flight some routes inside Latin America If someone have plans, after this health crisis is gone, just ask me, I will be glad to help

Interesting. However as a Guyanese, that us from Guyana, South America I always find it odd that many persons leave out the English Dutch and French speaking countries of South America. We too have things to offer.

Hello Malkia, We totally agree with you! As soon as we manage to visit Guyana, we will update this guide! I look forward to exploring your country. Cheers

Hey there!! So I am planning a trip to south America this summer. I have a couples questions. I’m flying into Bogota, Colombia. I plan on spending 2-3 months in SA. I’d like to travel from Bogota to Machu Picchu, then to Buenos Aires, and depending on time Brazil. I am trying to figure out the cheapest way to travel from country to country. I don’t care about long bus rides or any of that. I just don’t know where to purchase the cheapest bus tickets. Please help!!!

Simply the cheapest tickets are usually at the bus station, or wherever locals buy their tickets. Look out for agencies and the like that might add a fee for booking the very same thing you could yourself.

I have a good tip to move around if you need to do it by plane, just let me know if you plan (after the whole problem is gone) to fly some stretches.

Hey man great blog, been reading so many of your posts recently, can you email me I wanna chat to someone who knows there stuff… I’m going to South America for about 6 to 8 months on a budget and need help planning a route… hopefully you see this and we can chat thank you

Hey Jamie, What is your question specifcally regarding your route? Cheers!

Thank you so much for sharing these information – they are so useful!

I am planning a trip of a lifetime to South America. To keep cost down, I am likely to stay in hostels for the first time. I like to understand how travellers wash their clothes in hostels. Are there usually any washer or dryer machines in hostels? Do we usually have to pay to use them? What is the price like?

Look forward to hearing from you.

Hi Tina, Some hostels offer laundry services. Other times you can get your laundry done at local lavanderias . Depending on the country, prices are usually pretty reasonable. They usually charge by the weight. Getting a massive load of clothes washed should not cost you more than $10 (sometimes way less) washed, dried, and folded. Cheers!

Thanks Chris for this wonderful article. Bolivia and Brazil is a magical place! Anyone who went there said it was absolutely amazing! That nature is just wonderful here. keep sharing your travel ides about more places of South America.

Cheers, Mate!

I started my South American journey two months ago and this has been a big help. There’s literally so many options once you get down here. Overwhelming in all of the best ways.

Much love from Peru.

Wow! That’s a marvelous article! Unfortunately, not so long ago, I was in South America, and I really had a lot of predicaments while traveling. If only I had read this article before the traveling, most likely, my trip would have been better!

Great content, congratulations.

Really great and in depth guide, thank you! Planning my first trip to South America and really like the look of your 3 month route across Peru, Ecuador and Columbia, was thinking of taking another couple of weeks on top to see Bolivia as well. What month would you advise starting this travel? (would really like to be home for Christmas)

The autumn months would be a lovely time to visit South America 🙂

Awesome content! I took so much advice and suggestions. I feel like I can plan whatever kind of trip ranging in length of time spent there plus budgeting. Thanks!

It’s great that you’re such a strong advocate of reusable water bottles and avoiding one-use bottles and generally I totally agree. However, I normally refill my water bottle from the tap, which obviously isn’t safe everywhere. Geneally can you drink tap water in South America? Or if not how do you safely refill without buying bottled water?

We’ve used lots of things over the years to harvest clean water from taps and streams. The GRAYL filter bottle is one of our favorites. South America is something of a mixed bag when it comes to drinking water. It ranges from safe to unsafe with every shade of chloriney in between.

I am starting my South America trip new month and I found this website extremely useful. One question though – I am worried about the requirement to show proof of onward travel. Any idea if Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia require this?

Hi Neringa,

I never had to show proof of onward travel during my 6 months in South America. There was never a time when a customs officer/border police questioned me about my onward travel plans. You should be just fine 🙂

Thanks, Chris. You have been right! But I was requested to provide proof of onward travel by Avianca when flying for Cusco to Quito. Maybe because my passport expires soon. My friend, however, did not have one and was still allowed to board the plane 🙂 There was a group of Israeli guys who I think had to show this info, too.

Thanks a lot man, I’m planning a 3 month trip to Colombia, Peru and Brazil next year and this really helped me get my head around how to do it and the kind of money I’m gonna need to save! Cheers dude

Thanks, this really helped me a lot for planning my trip next year!

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Backpacking in South America , South America Tips , Travel Tips

Bus travel in south america: your guide to buses in south america.

Travelling by bus in South America can be a great way to get around cheaply and easily.  Long distance buses in South America are usually (not always!) fairly comfortable with reclining seats and air con, and some even include drinks, snacks and films to watch.  Others of course are more basic, but all are incredibly good value compared with European bus travel.  However, there are some things you need to know before embarking on your journey, to help you navigate the sometimes very confusing systems, and to help you survive journeys that can be over 24 hours long when travelling around South America by bus.  Here is your indispensable guide to bus travel in South America!

This website contains sponsored and affiliate links. If you click through the links on this page and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. [Learn more]

Bus Travel in South America: Choose your Company

Sometimes only one company covers a certain route, so your decision is easy.  For more popular routes there will be several companies with buses offering seats at various prices.  Do a bit of research if you can on reputation as well as price – and bear in mind that usually you get what you pay for – cheapest doesn’t usually mean best!  

If you are not on the strictest budget, it can be worth paying a little more money to get a little more comfort, safety and security for you and your bags.

READ MORE: Peru Hop Review: the best way from Cusco to Lima

Choosing the Time to Travel

Night buses in South America are great for budget travellers as they become your accommodation for the night, as well as your transport so you don’t have to spend money on a hostel bed.  The downside to this, of course, is limited sleep depending on the route – have you ever tried to sleep when bus lurches round corners on a windy road, or crashes into potholes on a dirt track?  

It also limits the scenery you can see on route, as you could miss some spectacular sites as you pass by in the dark.  If you have limited time though, it means you can travel overnight and not ‘waste’ a day being on a bus.  

There is also safety to consider – on particularly treacherous routes through mountain roads or where there is a (small) risk of hijacking, then daytime travel is best.  Weigh up all these options and choose the best for you for travelling around South America by bus.

Buses in South America: Buying Your Ticket

If you are lucky, buying tickets online can be simple, and a great time saver to cut down on waiting time at the terminal.  Most companies only offer purchase from their desk at the terminal, but the bigger companies, such as Cruz del Sur in Peru do have online tickets available on their app or website . 

Other companies may have websites but do not process payments from foreign credit cards, or require a national’s ID number to purchase tickets – I found that was the case in Brazil.  Third party websites for example www.busbud.com  do have tickets for sale, but bear in mind they are more expensive than buying direct at the terminal, sometimes costing up to 50% more.

Your best bet is to go directly to the terminal if you can.  Ask around for companies travelling to your destination, or check the information notices at the desks, which usually display their destinations. 

Prices and departure times do vary, so it is useful to check at least a couple of companies before you decide which one to buy.  Be prepared to wait if necessary. 

If you are in for a long wait you could leave your baggage for a while at the bag storage and head out to explore.  Remember to ask exactly where the bus leaves from so you can come back to the right place – and be sure to be there around 30 minutes before the departure time to load up.

Choosing a Seat

Personally, I love window seats.  A nice view, possible access to windows & fresh air, and less chance of sneaky hands stealing your stuff.  When buying your ticket, ask the attendant if they have your preferred seat available. 

On some routes, there are double-decker buses available, usually with the more expensive luxury seats downstairs, but no view of the road in front as the driver section is blocked off.  If, like me, you prefer to see where you’re going then upstairs at the front is best. 

This can also be rather nerve-wracking as you can see everything the driver does – every time he overtakes on blind corners, every speed limit sign flaunted; and if there is an accident you are first in line for impact. 

Unfortunately, bus accidents are fairly common throughout South America, due to drunk drivers, dangerous roads and general recklessness, especially at night.  That said, I didn’t have any problems on my travels during 10 months on the continent, but you never know.

Bus Travel in South America: Get Prepared

Air conditioning is a blessing and a curse.  Overnight buses in South America tend to be FREEZING due to overzealous air con and temperatures set way too low.  Bring a neck pillow if you have it, ear plugs, eye mask, headphones and music, and (if you like) something to read or watch. 

Lots of layers, including a scarf and blanket or sleeping bag, are also important to protect you from the cold!  Long distance buses may offer snacks or water, but take your own to be sure.  Some buses may also stop off on long journeys to allow passengers to eat – this was the case in Brazil, Paraguay and Colombia, but generally buses in Peru and Bolivia do not stop at all for a break, so be prepared. 

I suffer from motion sickness so taking tablets and bringing sick bags just in case as part of my preparation!

South America Bus Travel: Bathroom Breaks

Some longer distance buses will have buses on board, but should only be used for peeing as they are easily blocked.  Take your own tissues or toilet paper with you, and some hand sanitizer, as they are not always the cleanest. 

Try to time your bathroom break with a straight section of road so you’re not flying around corners while trying to pee!  Smaller buses will not have toilets on board, so when your bus stops at bus stations along the route, ask the driver how long they will be stopping for, and if you have time to use the toilet. 

Travelling with someone is useful here to make sure the bus doesn’t leave without you, but usually the driver will wait if he knows you’re not on board – just be as quick as you can.

In rural areas, if you have to go and there is no sign of anywhere to stop, the driver may just pull over to the side of the road so you can relieve yourself.  This is easier for men of course, but sometimes ladies when you gotta go, you gotta go! 

If you have a dodgy stomach, taking some Immodium before you travel is a good idea to avoid emergency stops along the way!

Travelling by Bus in South America: Looking After Your Baggage

Unfortunately, baggage theft isn’t uncommon on buses.  I heard stories of bags going missing from the hold, bags being rifled through, and clothes being stolen. 

Don’t leave anything too valuable in your big bag that you are going to put in the hold.  But it’s also a good idea to not keep everything in your small bag in case that goes missing!  I had a spare credit card shoved in the middle of my big rucksack, and some spare cash hidden in there too – NOT in easily accessible pockets or at the top. 

Ask for a ticket for the bag so you can claim it back at the end of the journey – sometimes they are given automatically, sometimes not.  In Northern Argentina (I’m not sure about the rest of the country) it is common practice to tip the baggage handlers, perhaps a note of 2 or 5 pesos.  If you don’t have the cash ready they will wait for you to find some!

Bus Travel in South America: On Board

If you have anything valuable in your hand luggage bag DO NOT put it up on the baggage racks.  Theft on buses is frustratingly common, especially in Ecuador, where bus travel is very cheap, and no ID is needed to buy a ticket. 

Keep your bag on your lap at all times , not even on the floor between your legs, as thieves are surprisingly good at opening bags and removing cameras, wallets, ipads etc without you feeling a thing.  If you are on a night bus, the same applies. 

I suggest covering yourself & your bag with a blanket or coat, and tying or locking the zips with a padlock to stop bags being opened without you noticing.  You could even clip your bag to yourself for an added step.  If you go to the toilet on board, ask someone to keep an eye on your bag, and take valuables with you.

Bus Travel in South America: Getting Off

Usually, the buses will pull into the terminal at your destination.  If you are getting off at a town on the way then check with the driver where to get off, and bear in mind that they may not go into the terminal, perhaps just stopping off on the main road to drop off passengers. 

Don’t forget your bag from the hold!  It is a good idea to know where you are going when you arrive, especially if it is late at night.  Often there are taxis waiting for buses to arrive if you are worried or need a ride to your hostel.

South America By Bus: Crossing Borders

When it comes to crossing borders in South America , check if the bus you are on will cross the border, and wait while you get your passport stamped at both border gates.  Sometimes, locals don’t bother to get stamped each time they cross, especially if they are just going to do some shopping in the next town. 

However, you will get into big trouble if you forget to stamp your passport at the border.  Often, buses will stop just before the border, so you can walk across, get both stamps, and hop onto another bus or collectivo at the other side.  Occasionally you might have to take a taxi to the nearest town to get an onward bus.

READ MORE: Crossing Borders in South America

Travelling by Bus in South America: Guided Buses

Peru Hop runs buses from Lima to Cusco (and vice versa), and its sister site Bolivia Hop runs adjoining buses that continue to La Paz in Bolivia.  I used Peru Hop when I first arrived in South America and loved it, but when I became more confident I was happy to jump on the public buses.

I hope you find this guide useful.  I heard many horror stories while travelling, but I managed 10 months and 8 countries without any problems, so use this guide to help you through!  Were you travelling by bus in South America?  Did you travel safely or did you have any issues?  I’d love to hear your stories!

If you’re looking for travel insurance for your trip to South America, get a quote now from World Nomads .

Like this article?  Pin it to read again later:

You may also like:

Peru Hop: The Best Way from Cusco to Lima

Entering Colombia with an Emergency Passport

Crossing Borders in South America

Just to let you know, this post may contain paid or affiliate links, which help to maintain Tales of a Backpacker and give me the chance to keep travelling, and to keep creating awesome content for you!

Tales of a Backpacker is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.  I only recommend goods and services I believe are useful and reliable.

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

28 thoughts on “ Bus Travel in South America: Your Guide to Buses in South America ”

Great info, I’ll use this all when I travel there , thanks for sharing.

Thanks for reading Lucas! Stay safe 🙂

These are some really good and important tips!! Thanks for sharing.

Oh yes I am all about the window seat!! 😀

Ahh I wish I had seen this in 2017!! I visited Argentina and Paraguay and it was awesome, but you shared some pretty helpful tips…but, I always was able to get a window seat, so we have that in common!! 🙂

That’s great to hear – you’ll have an amazing time I’m sure! It’s good to do research before you go, I’m so glad my posts are helpful 😀 enjoy your trip!!

This is great information!! Thank you so much! I’m planning on an around the world trip with about a third to half of the time exploring South and Middle America. I’m extremely nervous as I have never set foot in that continent and heard a lot of crazy rumors about it. I’m a 5’1 petit Asian girl planning to travel around South America, so it really frightens (but also excites) me. I’m trying to do as much research as possible regarding means of transport and just safety in travel generally, so your posts really helps! Thanks!!

Hi Pippa! It depends on the buses and the route. In most places the more expensive buses have toilets on, or usually if it is a big bus (and not a mini-bus) then they will also have toilets on. Smaller mini-buses for example in Colombia don’t have toilets, but do stop if you ask them. In Bolivia I think it is less common to stop regularly – but as they say, when you gotta go, you gotta go! You might have to ask the driver to stop if you’re desperate, or take your chance when they pull into city bus stations to pick up passengers along the way – ask the driver if there is time for the toilet & he will tell you yes or no. Always carry tissues with you in case you have to go at the side of the road (I didn’t have to, but just in case!), and some spare change as most places in bus stations and shops etc will probably charge you a small amount to use the toilet.

Hi Marianne! I’m so glad you found it useful 🙂 Usually there are two drivers for long journeys so they change over to allow one to sleep. Generally I prefer travelling during the day but did take some night buses too. For the Cusco to Lima route if you are going to do it in one go then use Cruz del Sur as they have the best security record and comfy seats. However, there is a lot of places worth seeing along the way – Huacachina, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, so breaking up the journey is better if you have the time. I used Peru Hop for that, which was great as the guides arranged activities at each stop and hostels too. I did have a spare phone which can be useful, although ironically it was my spare that got stolen! 🙂 Enjoy your travels, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time!

Hi! This is so helpful for me and my bestie, I will be moving to Costa Rica next year (lived there two years ago) and there I will be waiting for my best friend to come. We are planning on starting in Costa Rica and experience as much as we can. As flying can be quite expensive, we want to try traveling by bus as much as we can. Although I love myself an adventure and getting to know new things, I can be pretty skeptical and paranoid at times, haha. What if we were to go to Cusco from Lima, which takes 24h as I have understood, will there be two bus drivers there, or do one stop to sleep? I am crazy afraid that the bus driver will fall asleep or something like that! Haha. And did you bring an extra phone, in case of theft? Thanks for your response!

Glad it is useful for you! Good luck for your travels in South America!

This is more. Helpful than you can ever imagine. Local travel is always a hassle in a foreign country especially if you don’t speak the language. Bookmarking this page for future reference for sure!

Its crazy, I don’t know why they do it! On one bus I was wrapped in a blanket, had a scarf around my head and was still shivering!

Ah the infamous chicken buses! I’m not sure about Central America, I’m heading there too next year so we’ll have to wait and see! I can’t imagine it being too different – you’ll just have to try & break the journeys whenever you can to save your back!

Great! I didn’t travel much in Argentina but I guess the same principles apply there too 🙂

I feel like no matter where you are in the world, bus travel is just crazy daunting. And it seems that the overzealous temperature settings is also a global epidemic. I always always wear long pants, bring a sweater, a sarong, and socks on any overnight bus. Legit, this is a MUST read and I will bookmark this for the South American backpacking trip I’m planning to do in my 30s.

Yes, this is such an awesome post! I haven’t been to South America yet, but I do always like knowing my transportation options, and if I can avoid flying I do. I’d be curious if you get a chance to experience Southeast Asia buses or trains, how you’d compare them.

When I think about it none of my friends who studied in South America (I was a Spanish major, so all of them except the one or two of us who went to Spain :p) took the buses around or at least talked about it if they did haha. Good to know they’re not nearly as bad as one might think!

What an informative post! I especially like the part about night buses – I do love taking them as a budget backpacker because you can save money on accommodation but it definitely stuffs you up. A lot of times, I have arrived in the city so tired that I need to go and sleep in the hostel anyways. Thanks for sharing 🙂

My husband hated it when I subjected him to overnight bus trips in Vietnam but I love it. I don’t much like the idea of having to watch my bag every minute but great tips

This is such a detailed and informative post! I really like that you told people to bring a jumper for overnight buses – they turn the air con up way too high in a lot of places in Asia as well and everyone is there shiverring all night because their warm clothes are either non existent or under the bus… this happened to me only a few months ago in Vietnam!

Thanks for the informative post! I don’t do well on long car rides (bad back) so I’m always amazed with people that can survive journeys that are over 3hrs- let alone 24! I’m assuming the buses in Central America are similar to South America? We’re heading there in December and have heard some horror stories too… especially the chicken buses :S

Awesome and thorough post! I’ll be heading to Argentina in a few weeks, so this will be very useful!

Ah yes, unfortunately I heard many stories of it happening to unsuspecting travellers!

All great information. Very informative guide to taking the bus in South America. I wouldn’t have even guessed that other passengers would try to steal while on the bus. Good to know.

Thanks Jaynie, glad it’s useful! 🙂

Great information, I haven’t made it to South America yet so this answered some questions for me about the ease of getting around.

Hi Pippa! It depends on the buses and the route. In most places the more expensive buses have toilets on, or usually if it is a big bus (and not a mini-bus) then they will also have toilets on. Smaller mini-buses for example in Colombia don’t have toilets, but do stop if you ask them. In Bolivia I think it is less common to stop regularly – but as they say, when you gotta go, you gotta go! You might have to ask the driver to stop if you’re desperate, or take your chance when they pull into city bus stations to pick up passengers along the way – ask the driver if there is time for the toilet & he will tell you yes or no. Always carry tissues with you in case you have to go at the side of the road (I didn’t have to, but just in case!), and some spare change as most places in bus stations and shops etc will probably charge you a small amount to use the toilet.

That was helpful thanks. Can you tell me about the toilet situation? Do buses have them onboard or how often do they stop to allow you to go? Thanks 🙂

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Van Life Guide for Beginners: Traveling Around the United States in a Campervan

Written By Bastian Graf

The best way to see North America is on a road trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip and plan to rent a campervan or RV or you’re considering becoming a full-time van lifer, we have you covered. We’ve put together a full guide covering do’s and don’ts, great tips, and expert recommendations for traveling around the United States by road.

Download the full guide here

The best way to see North America is on a road trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip and plan to rent a campervan or RV or you’re considering becoming a full-time van lifer, we...

Here’s what you can find in this Guide:

1. Best Campervan Rentals

• Campervans or Conversion Vans

2. Tips for Campervan Travel 

Plan Out Your Route

Be prepared on the road, must-have travel apps.

• Campervan/Minivan Maintenance

Campervanning = Minimalism so Pack Smart

3. Budget Travel Tips to Save Money on Your Campervan Trip

4. Campervan Travel Guide – Road Trips To Consider

5. Best Campsites or RV Parks to Visit in the US

6. Van Life Tips – Best Places to…?

Take Selfies

Go Stargazing

• Watch the Sunsets

Best Campervan Rentals

Fridge vs. no fridge – lots of space vs. not so much space – proper campervan vs. minivan … decisions decisions decisions.

Renting a car or campervan for the first time can be pretty daunting, and with so many options out there, it can be hard to decide on what’s the best van is for you. Read on for top tips and expert advice on how to find the right vehicle for you.

Here are a few questions you should ask yourself.

• What am I most comfortable driving?
• How many people are in my group?
• What is my overall budget for this road trip?
• Do I prefer to sleep in a vehicle or a tent?

Answering those simple questions will help you to decide between renting a campervan or minivan.

Minivan Rentals

These dependable vehicles are cheap, reliable, and, most importantly, easy to pick up all over the country. We recommend minivans for:

• Travelers who are happy to fold down the seats and throw a mattress in the back of the van.  Packing a tent is also an option.
• Travelers on a budget – minivans are cheaper vehicles to run than campervans or RVs .
• Groups of people who are traveling together (this is a great way to save on the cost of fuel)
• People who are planning to mix it up between camping and staying in hotels .

Campervan Rentals

The perfect vehicle for groups of two who are planning on living on the road, experiencing the van life, for the length of their road trip.

We recommend campervans for:

• People who have a bigger budget to spend on a vehicle
• Travelers who prefer their home comforts such as the fridge, kitchen sink, and gas stove.
• Travelers who are planning on sleeping in their vehicle every night, and are looking for a little more room.
• Travelers who are considering van living as a lifestyle

*Bonus – Some campervans have solar panels!  Having solar panels means you have less of a need to stay at a powered campsite to recharge the batteries for your fridge & lights!

Still not sure what vehicle to rent? Check out our articles  6 Reasons to Rent a Minivan for your Next Road Trip and  6 Reasons Renting a Campervan is the Best Way to Travel the USA .

Tips for Campervan Travel

Traveling around in a campervan is a brand new experience to many people, so we thought we’d put together some tips to ensure that your trip around the USA with Travelers Autobarn is the ultimate, stress-free road trip!

The United States is vast, and you won’t be the first road tripper to look at Google Maps and underestimate how long it will take you to drive from one place to another. But, while you still want to keep some degree of spontaneity in your trip, it’s ideal to have a rough idea of where you want to travel to, the route you want to take, and how long it will take you to get there. If you are going through larger cities, try to avoid rush hour traffic, or you may get delayed for hours.

Have a rough plan of where you want to go, your must-see sites, and where you plan to stay each night will help you stay on budget, be more relaxed, and have a more enjoyable trip. Bring a map of the United States too!  You never know when you may hit a stretch of highway without services, so be prepared!

*Bonus – when you rent a campervan RV or minivan from Travellers Autobarn USA, all of our vehicles come with FREE UNLIMITED MILES ! So even if you detour from your original plan, we have you covered!

Food & Water

The hotter it is, the more water you need.  You don’t want to get stuck in Death Valley National Park without water!

It’s also crucial that you pack some non-perishable food to keep you going should you break down – think cereal bars, nuts, and dried fruit. Try to avoid snacking on salty snacks – it’s just going to make you even thirstier and could speed up dehydration.

Weather – Know the forecast!

Knowing the weather forecast is extremely important!  Depending on the time of year and what parts of the country you plan to campervan through, Mother Nature may have a different plan for your road trip.  Winter months can bring on harsh temperatures, slippery roads, high winds, and road closures. Knowing ahead of time can save you from having to turn around or from being stuck in a stressful situation.

In some parts of the United States, you will need to be aware of hurricane season and pay attention to tornado warnings.  The Weather Channel app is a great way to check the forecasts before you set off on the open road each day.

Our flexible drop-offs and unlimited miles are extra helpful in these situations. Don’t be in a rush!

*Bonus – For more tips on winter travel, check out our Van Life Guide to Winter Road Trips in a Campervan .

Avoid unsealed roads

Although many of the highways and roads in the United States are in good condition, you may end up on a gravel or dirt road.

If you have rented a campervan or car from one of the big cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, or San Francisco (to name a few), then you might find that the insurance policy you took out does not cover you when you are driving on unsealed or unpaved roads. Make sure you read the small print.

When you’re driving, be aware that collisions with these animals are frequent, as well as cows and other animals, particularly at nighttime, dawn, or dusk. If you are pulling a night shift at the wheel, then try to ensure that the passenger next to you stays awake and alert to help you watch out for any animals on the road.

And please don’t try and take a selfie with or pet the wild animals!  Not only is it against the law in certain parts of the country, but it is dangerous and could result in serious injuries or even death.

Boondocking – Dry Camping – Wild Camping

Solar panels come in very handy when you need to dry camp.  If you are running out of steam and need to pull over in the middle of the night, or you can’t find a campground for the night, make sure you are in an area that allows the campervan to be parked.  If you are in or near a larger city, it should be reasonably easy to find a Walmart, gas station, or truck stop that will allow you to use the parking lot for the night. Make sure it is 24-hours in the event you need to use the bathroom facilities.  If you are in the middle of nowhere, make sure you don’t park on private property or where there is a “no trespassing” sign.

GasBuddy – An excellent app for travelers on a budget!  Gasbuddy helps locate the cheapest gas near you so you can compare prices and save.  They have a rewards program that allows you to earn points towards free gas, as well.

Google Maps or Waze – Real-time GPS apps with live traffic alerts. Both apps are popular, so it comes down to preference.

The Weather Channel – The Weather Channel app has a free version and is great for current and extended forecasts across the United States. If you are heading to a new location, make sure and double-check the weather forecast.  You may need to change your route, stop and restock your water supply, or give yourself additional time due to slippery roads.

First Aid: American Red Cross – The First Aid app is a must!  We hope you never need it, but in the event, you have a first aid emergency or need to prepare for a weather emergency, the content is preloaded, so you have access to safety tips, step by step instructions, videos, and access to 911 no matter your location.  And it’s free!

HipCamp – Hipcamp is an awesome app for finding and booking campsites, RV parks, and more.

Campervan or Minivan Maintenance

Remember that you are responsible for the campervan while it is in your possession. You should treat it like it is your vehicle and carry out basic maintenance checks every 300-500 miles. Basic maintenance includes checking things like tire pressure, and oil, washer fluid, and coolant levels.

If you’re driving a campervan, then make sure you know the height of the vehicle and be wary of driving into parking garages, under bridges, or low hanging branches if you aren’t sure.

Forest fires and brushfires are unfortunately very common in parts of the United States.  They can be dangerous – so always make sure you adhere to the guidelines.

We recommend that you visit the check the fire danger rating in the area and make sure campfires are permitted where you are staying (particularly in summer).

If you start a campfire, then you must always make sure it is entirely out at the end of the night and have at least 10 liters of water nearby in case it gets out of hand.

Just because you are camping doesn’t mean you have to stick to cups of noodles, hot dogs, or cans of beans.  Get creative and meal prep before you head out on the open road. Here are a few prep tips for cooking in a campervan.

• Cut up your chicken, beef, or pork and toss them in the seasoning or sauces before you pack up.  Not only does this help with cleanup in the campervan, but it also saves space. If you season the meat ahead of time, then you don’t have to pack spices or bottles of sauce, and the meat will be full of flavor! You can even go one step further and cook the meat ahead of time.
• Wash, cut, and put your fruits and veggies in a gallon bag.   Again, this saves time and space on the road and makes it easier for snacks if you are traveling with kids.
• Pack Reynolds Wrap and grilling bags. These are great for preparing meals over the campfire.  Toss in your preseasoned steak strips, potatoes, veggies and add a little water, seal or wrap it up tight and throw it on the fire. Quick cleanup, easy to throw together and delicious!  Foil is also great for cooking breakfast burritos, shrimp boils, teriyaki chicken with peppers and pineapple, fish, and Banana S’Mores, to name a few.
• Precook a few pounds of ground beef! Ground beef is very versatile.  You can throw together some tacos, taco salads or nachos, add to some pasta sauce for a quick spaghetti, or use it for breakfast burritos or hobo packets in the morning. If you aren’t a red meat eater, then chop up some sausage or ground turkey, or mushrooms if you are vegetarian/vegan.

It’s no secret that traveling in a campervan comes with less storage and smaller space than a motorhome.  Dollar stores are a great place to find travel-size toiletries for your road trip, and it’s easier on the budget.

Another great packing tip is to save condiments from fast-food restaurants.  If you know you are going on a campervan road trip, plan to keep any extra condiments from eating out.  Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper packets take up a lot less space than full-size bottles and don’t require refrigeration.  This not only saves space for additional packing items but doesn’t take up space in the campervan fridge.

Budget Travel Tips to Save Money on your Campervan Trip

One of your biggest outgoings is going to be the cost of your fuel. As we mentioned earlier, one of the best apps we recommend is GasBuddy. It’s convenient for finding the cheapest gas prices in your area. Having an app like GasBuddy or Waze can assist you in not only finding a gas station nearby but also which station has the lowest fuel prices.

*Pro-tip: Having the A/C on all the time will eat into your fuel tank – so if you’re trying to save some money settle for opening the windows instead.

Hit a supermarket with a grocery list in hand!

Once you have rented your campervan, you will likely be departing from one major city, so we recommend that before you hit the road, you stop by a supermarket to stock up on all the essentials (and we don’t just mean beers and sausages for the barbie!).  Have a list! We all know that we spend more money in the grocery store without a list frequently buying food or supplies we don’t need and forgetting items we do.

Buying food and supplies from gas stations and small local stores on the journey can hit your traveling budget hard.

National Parks Pass

If you plan on visiting more than 3 National Parks, then we highly recommend you invest in an annual America the Beautiful pass ! The cost is $80 and gives access to over 2,000 National Parks and National Refuges.  Typically each park has around a $35 entrance fee, so an America the Beautiful pass is an excellent deal for travelers planning National Park Road Trips . If you are 62 and older, they have an annual Senior Pass that is significantly cheaper.  If you are a current, or veteran, member of the US military or if you are a US citizen or permanent resident with permanent disabilities then you are eligible for a free pass.*

*Please confirm prices and terms have not changed for these passes at NPS.gov .

Campervan Travel Guide – Road Trips to Consider

Ultimate National Parks Campervan Road Trip   – One of our top recommendations that you can enjoy in both summer and winter !

West Coast Campervan Road Trips – Los Angeles to Big Sur , LA to San Fran , or Los Angeles to Seattle

The Narrows Hike – Ultimate Zion Campervan Getaway – Zion National Park features some of the most incredible hikes in the United States.

Ultimate Rock Climbing Campervan Road Trip – Not for the novice!  But if you love rock climbing, then this itinerary is a must!

San Francisco to Denver and back – You won’t regret this roundtrip campervan adventure!  Our itinerary takes you through some of the most famous places in the western United States.

Best Campsites or RV Parks to Visit in the USA

The United States has so many amazing places to visit . Traveling around in a campervan lets you see the most popular destinations, plus all of the beauty in between. You’ve decided which campervan is best for your road trip, you know all of the tips and best travel apps, we’ve given you a few road trip itineraries to consider, so now all that is left is where to stay.

The US is full of campgrounds and RV parks with a variety of amenities. However, if you are on a tight budget, you may want to look for free campgrounds along the way.  Just be prepared, many of the free campsites come with no facilities or amenities so you will need to plan accordingly.  Some of these sites are within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), in parking lots of larger retailers like Costo, Walmart, and Cabelas, and truck stops and rest areas.  Make sure and do your research so that you don’t get ticketed.

Here are 5 of our favorite RV Parks to visit:

• North Pines Campground, Yosemite National Park, California
• Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park, Montana
• Zion River Resort, Zion National Park, Utah
• Mesquite Spring, Death Valley National Park, California
•  Paradise on the River, outside Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Bonus: If you are planning a road trip out of Las Vegas or California, check out our  Best Campervan Campgrounds Near Las Vegas  and  Best Places to Campervan in California.

Van Life Tips – Best Places to…?

Whether it is the Grand Canyon in Arizona, inside of a gigantic tree in Redwood National and State Parks, overlooking the Pacific ocean with the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance, or hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park, we know travel selfies are a must! Here are our top 5 selfie spots.

• Antelope Canyon in Arizona – We already mentioned places like the Grand Canyon & Zion above, but add Antelope Canyon to your list. It is particularly incredible and something everyone should experience.
• Glacier National Park, Montana – Lake McDonald, Grinnel Glacier, Going to the Sun Road – GNP should be on everyone’s bucket list!
• Redwood National & State Parks, California – The enormous redwood trees are not only a site to see but are fantastic backdrops for the avid selfie-taker.
• San Francisco , California – Hawk Hill is a great spot to take a selfie with the Golden Gate Bridge and the city in the distance.
• Las Vegas, Nevada – There are too many spots to list, but the fountain at the Bellagio Hotel is a great place to start.

Pro tip: Any US National Park is a spectacular place for selfies.

Travel outside of the bigger cities, put your phone down, and stargaze into the incredible nighttime sky.

• Arches National Park – Utah Bryce Canyon – Utah
• Death Valley National Park – California (make sure to go during the milder seasons)
• Joshua Tree National Park – California
• Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado
• Sedona – Arizona (don’t plan to stargaze during the late summer months.  Early July to late August is monsoon season.)

Watch the Sunset

Who doesn’t love a good sunset? Below are some of our favorite spots to take in some of the most magnificent sunsets in North America.

• Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona – The south rim, in particular, provides not only an exceptional sunset experience but a view of most of the canyon itself.
• California – Pick a place! Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, Joshua Tree National Park.  California is full of beautiful sunsets locations.
• Montana/Wyoming – Glacier National Park , The Grand Tetons or Yellowstone National Park.  The clean mountain air and the sun setting behind the mountains – you can’t go wrong.
• Santa Fe, New Mexico – Old Fort Marcy Park is an incredible experience for those willing to hike.
• Arches National Park, Utah – When the sun sets, it changes the colors in the sandstone arches making a spectacular visual experience and a prime opportunity for incredible photos.

You are all set for traveling around the USA in a campervan, now book your campervan at one of our three US RV rental locations !

Here are a few other guides you might enjoy.

Guide to the Best Campgrounds for Campervans in the USA

Guide to Free Camping in the USA

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Considering traveling overseas?  Check out our other Beginner’s Guides for New Zealand and Australia Campervan Trips.

About the Author

Bastian Graf

Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.

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Do you live in one of America’s 15 fastest-growing cities?

(NEXSTAR) – With just a couple of exceptions, the fastest-growing cities in America are located in the South, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Between July 1, 2022 and July 1, 2023, the most recent data available, Texas cities dominated the list of the fastest-growing 15.

“The population growth across the South in 2023 was driven by significant numeric and percentage gains among its cities,” said Crystal Delbé, a statistician in the Census Bureau’s Population Division. “Thirteen of the 15 fastest-growing cities were in the South, with eight in Texas alone.”

Celina, located near Dallas, grew by more than a quarter – a whopping 53 times the national growth rate of .5%, according to the Census Bureau.

Outside of southern communities, the only two to make the list of fastest-growing cities were Lathrop, California (13.6%) and Athens, Ohio (8.6%).

When it comes to the largest total gains, San Antonio, Texas was first (21,970), followed by Fort Worth, Texas (21,365) and Charlotte, N.C. (15,607).

Prior analyses by the National Association of Realtors found that people moving within the United States in 2022 tended to leave large states and metropolitan areas to save money amid soaring mortgage and inflation rates.

See how much cities in each state grew:

If the map does not display, click here .

Population growth in U.S. cities is also caused by international migration, with 1,138,989 foreign nationals moving to the United States, according to Census data.

States that received the greatest influx of new residents from abroad were Florida (178,432), California (150,983), Texas (128,982), New York (73,867) and Massachusetts (50,647).

When it comes to domestic migration, these states lost the most people: California (-338,371), New York (-216,778), Illinois (-83,839), and New Jersey (-44,666).

States with the biggest domestic migration gains were Florida (194,438), Texas (186,767), North Carolina (97,264) and South Carolina (82,562) .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2.

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Route between Auckland NZ and London UK via South America - Air Travel Forum

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Route between Auckland NZ and London UK via South America

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Hello everyone,

I love planning itineraries for lengthy or complex trips for people but I am really stumped with this one (I think it’s because it’s for me rather than someone else). I would appreciate any advice that you could offer.

Next year I turn 40 and I would like to do a round-the-world trip of sorts during my six week summer holiday during August, starting from London (UK). I know that I would like to visit family in Perth (Aus) and Auckland (NZ) so those are my first two destinations and would take up the first two weeks.

With the four remaining weeks, I would like to hit a few cities in South America on the route back to the UK. I have come up with two possible routes:

- Auckland to Santiago (Chile)

- Santiago to Buenos Aires (Argentina)

- Buenos Aires to Montevideo (Uruguay)

- Montevideo to Rio DJ (Brazil)

- Rio DJ to London

- Auckland to Santiago

- Santiago to La Paz (Bolivia)

- La Paz to Lima (Peru)

- Lima to Quito (Ecuador)

- Quito to Bogotá (Colombia)

- Bogotá to London

What I would like to know is:

- Are there better places/cities to travel to in South America on the route back to the UK for a similar amount of money?

A few notes: I know that there are many wonderful cities and countries in South America- this is just a whistle-stop tour of a few places on the way back to the UK. I will definitely be back to explore these places and others in more depth.

Thank you very much.

4 replies to this topic

You might want to look at RTW tickets ( good intro thread in the forum TQ) and you might be surprised at how good value they are. Better to start elsewhere in Europe than the UK on a cost basis however.

The South American stuff would give you issues with OneWorld, not sure about Star Alliance , but they are not insurmountable with ‘self booked surface sectors’.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

AKL to SCL looks complicated with both ( more so since LATAM left One World) but again there are ways around this with a bit of planning.

Would this be in economy?

You'd have to pay out of pocket for flights within South America if you chose a Oneworld RTW, but it can still offer good value. One-way economy fares from Santiago to, say, Lima, Rio or BA are all in the £50 - £100 range, so not deal breakers. The base price for a four-continent Oneworld RTW beginning in the UK is £2100; if you hopped a flight to Norway the same ticket would have a base price of £1509. (Taxes and fees would be in addition to that and would depend on your route, stopover points, and choice of airlines .)

Here's an imaginary route (one of thousands of permutations) that would be eligible. The ticket allows up to 16 flights in the space of 12 months; the imaginary route shows you starting and ending in Norway, with a long stopover back in the UK, followed by a separate trip (to Doha in this example, but could be anywhere in Europe, the Middle East or Mediterranean Africa) before ending back in Norway before the ticket turns back into a pumpkin. See the details in my old sticky thread, which is still largely current.

https://tinyurl.com/OSLPERSCL

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How to visit Australia without flying: Holland America launches new Grand Voyage

The long-haul flight can be enough to keep some U.S. travelers from visiting Australia . But a new Holland America Line itinerary will offer an alternate route.

The cruise line’s Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage will sail round-trip from San Diego, California in 2026, taking guests down under and back over 93 days.

"Our Grand Voyages are renowned for connecting guests with the world's most fascinating places while sailing roundtrip from the United States," Beth Bodensteiner, the line’s chief commercial officer, said in a news release . "Our team crafted this itinerary to show guests the parts of Australia and New Zealand they expect to visit, but also included frequently asked for, but rarely visited, ports throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands."

When is Holland America’s Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage?

The cruise will depart on Jan. 4, 2026 aboard the line’s 1,432-guest Zaandam ship.

Where will the cruise sail?

The ship will visit 44 ports in 10 countries. Passengers will make their way to Hawaii first before heading to the South Pacific. The ship will then visit Australia – almost circling the country – and New Zealand, followed by Tonga and French Polynesia on the way back to San Diego.

The itinerary features two days of scenic cruising at the Great Barrier Reef and four late-night departures in Adelaide, Australia and the French Polynesian islands of Moorea, Raiatea and Huahine. Guests will also stay overnight in six ports, including Honolulu, Sydney and Auckland, giving them ample time to explore.

Short vs. long cruises: Which one is right for you?

How much does the cruise cost?

The cruise currently starts at $17,699 per person based on double occupancy, according to Holland America’s website . Travelers who book by June 16, 2025 can get perks like a Surf Wi-Fi package, airport transfers in San Diego, a 3% pay-in-full discount and more thrown in (though they vary by stateroom category).

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

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