Have you ever pictured yourself hiking through the Andes, exploring ancient ruins, or shopping in the vibrant local markets in South America? Millions of tourists visit South America every year.
However, first-time visitors don’t always know how complicated it is to find their way around South America when they start planning their trips. Many arrive at the continent full of excitement, but without any practical preparations.
This increases anxiety and can ruin the entire experience. Basic knowledge of your destination can improve your experience, so this guide explains five key things to know before planning your trip to South America.
Distances Are Bigger Than They Look
One of the biggest surprises for travelers is the size of South America. Countries may look relatively close together on the map, but in reality, the time it takes to travel from one country to another may be longer than expected.
You will likely have to fly between most major destinations. Travelling overland usually involves an overnight bus journey or a full day of travelling to reach your destination. Many travelers who visit for the first time make the mistake of trying to cover too many countries in a short period, and end up spending a lot of time in transit rather than actually exploring.
Climate Changes Drastically From Region to Region
One of the great things about South America is the range of climates found across the continent. You can leave a tropical location and, within a few hours, arrive at a location 25 or 30 degrees cooler.
The continent has various types of landscapes and climates. There are rainforests, deserts, beaches, and glaciers in different parts of the continent, so it’s always important to think about what time of year you are travelling, as the climate can impact outdoor activities.
Timing your trip is critical for your comfort and visibility. Know when to visit Machu Picchu or other popular attractions, especially if you enjoy outdoor fun. Here is what to expect
- Hot and humid weather in the Amazon rainforest
- Very cold and windy weather in Patagonia
- Very warm temperatures in major coastal cities such as Rio de Janeiro
- Thin chilly air in high-altitude cities like Cusco or La Paz
Pack layers of clothing instead of packing clothes for a single season to maximize your comfort
Your Language Skills Will Influence Your Experience
Effective communication can be difficult if you don’t speak Spanish or Portuguese. Many parts of South America do not have many English-speaking people, so you will have to learn some basic words and phrases in either language to improve the quality of your travel experience. Spanish dominates most of South America, and Portuguese is spoken in Brazil. You do not have to be completely fluent in either language. Just learn enough to get by.
Altitude Can Catch You Off Guard
Traveling to high-elevation cities like Cusco, La Paz, and Quito can have an effect on your physical well-being. You may experience altitude sickness, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours. Don’t rush your travel schedule. Give your body a chance to adjust and try not to do anything exerting early on.
Safety Is About Awareness, Not Fear
Many people do not have the correct information on safety within South America. They might think they are unsafe because of a few troubled areas. Most countries have both safe and unsafe tourist sites. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.
- Store your valuables safely
- Use recognized forms of transportation
- Do some research on an area before staying there for a long period
- Pay attention to your environment, especially in crowded areas
Remember that even though you may be nervous about traveling to South America, it still has lots to offer. Don’t let fear cloud your experience.
Endnote
Visiting South America may be one of the greatest experiences you will ever have. However, this is only possible if you understand its realities first. The tips above can have a significant impact on your experience. Once you understand these aspects of your trip, you stop reacting to surprises and start enjoying the trip with confidence.
