South America is such a huge continent, with so many countries and things to see and do. How can you choose what best suits you?
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 5 minutes to several hours
Here's How:
- Know yourself. Evaluate your physical health and stamina.
- How much do you want to spend? You can go budget to first class plus.
- How much time do you have? Need a weekend getaway or do you have months for travel?
- Can you handle hot, humid climates? If not, forget the Amazon or the rain forests.
- Do you like to cram in as much as you can in one trip? Maybe a guided tour of several countries is right for you.
- Do you like to travel with others? Consider a tour with special interest groups, women-only, spiritual travel, seniors-only.
- Do you like poking about in ruins? Do you like adventure travel? Try trekking and mountaineering in the Andes, scuba, kayaking. Explore the Falkland Islands.
- Do you like the nightlife? Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires and other large cities are waiting. Do you like soaking up sun on the beach? The white sands along the Caribbean Sea, Punta del Este, Brazilian beaches... oh yes!
- Do you like to ski or climb mountains or nature in the raw? The Andes, Pantanal and the Amazon will give you plenty of both.
- Do you want a little bit of everything in one country? Do you want to see unexplained sights? Read travel articles to get the most from your travel planning.
- Once you have your destinations in mind, find out what documents (passport, visas, etc.) you'll need. Give yourself plenty of time to get them.
- Be aware of political issues. Read newspapers, opinions pieces and US State Department evaluations. Be alert to dangers which might force a change in travel plans.
- Plan your packing. What will you need? Pack as lightly as possible. It will make a difference if you're traveling by bus, or backpacking - even carrying your luggage in the airport.
- Decide on communication methods with friends and relatives back home. Will you need Internet access? Where are the internet cafes?
- Will you need innoculations where you're going? If so, get them early enough to recover from any side effects before you travel.
Tips:
- Schedule your trip for your comfort. Ask questions and discuss your plans on the forum.
Compare and select flights from your area. You can also browse for hotels and car rentals.
- Be aware of health and safety issues. Consult the consulates of the countries you'll be visiting and pay attention to US State Deparment warnings.
- Take it easy the first few days in a different climate and altitude.
- Take lots of photos and a travel journal. Share your trip with us when you get back.
- Keep an eye out for "hidden" treasures or places you'll want to see on a return trip.
What You Need:
- Travel Documents
- Camera
- Clothing
- Cosmetics
- Travel Items
