There are so many countries and attractions and things to see and do. Each of South America's Countries and Territories has charms and attractions of its own. Where do you start? And how to choose? Take your time, research the Most Popular Cities, explore each of the countries, read about the cities and regions, learn about the holidays, culture and customs, then decide. Browse the photo galleries for previews of what you'll see. This map of South America (direct buy) might be helpful.
Maybe you've dreamed about seeing Machu Picchu, the Amazon, Patagonia, the Andes or seen a documentary about the rain forests, or the skimpy bikinis on the beaches of Brazil and want to see for yourself. How about attending specific Events, Fiestas, Festivals and Holidays?
Maybe you're an archaeologist who's studied the ancient civilizations and are ready to examine the ruins. Perhaps you've studied Spanish or Portuguese in school and are ready to demonstrate your skill. Could be you want to see the country your ancestors are from.
Whatever your reason, let's take a look at your interests and the type of travel that appeals to you.
Do you:
- like to travel in a group or by yourself?
- cram your days full or leave time for unexpected activities?
- like active sports while you travel?
- like cities and cosmopolitan amenities?
- like to rough it?
- prefer ecotours?
- speak the language(s) or need a translator?
- like organized tours?
- like cultural or religious tours?
- want age or gender specific travel companions?
- combine business with pleasure?
- want adult only or family activities?
- handle heat and humidity?
- handle cold and/or snow or rain?
- function in the altitude?
- handle crowds?
- need budget travel?
- have limited time?
- have your own means of transportation like a motorcycle or bicycle or plane? p
- refer to use public transportation or rent a car?
- like to mix forms of transportation, like planes and boats?
- have physical or medical issues to consider?
Consider these questions and others as you think about places to go to. You can do as others do, visit the popular destinations and see a bit of the country as you get there, or choose a country for the sporting and recreational opportunities such as skiing in the Andes, fishing in the Pantanal or in Patagonia, surfing, trekking the backcountry in such places as the Torres del Paine Grand Circuit or Parque Nahuel Huapi, or traveling the length of the Pan American highway from Panama to the tip of Southern Chile.
Or you could open up a map of South America, cover your eyes and put your finger down. Open your eyes and see what you've chosen. This appeals to the traveler who likes surprises and the unexpected. You may wind up someplace wonderful or a place you wouldn't wish on your worst enemy.
To use a little more method in your choosing, take a look at some of the popular destinations people flock to, or take the Virtual Tour of South America to whet your appetite.
Take the time to explore the hundreds of opportunities the many tour operators offer. You'll find tours for women only, for cultural enrichment, to learn from shamans and medicine men, tours to challenge your athletic ability, and tours to challenge your energy level. Keep an eye out on the travel specials when they appear as blogs on the main page.
If you've decided on a country or countries, check the listing of Tour Operators. You'll find some countries have a great many tours to choose from, others may have only one or two. That tells you at a glance which countries are most heavily visited and where you will have the most choice.
If you choose to travel with a tour operator, make sure you check all the details. What is covered in the tour fees and what will you have to pay for as you go? Read endorsements or comments from other customers and if none are available, take a second or third look at the company. Consider also the amount of time you will spend in guided activities and how much free time you will have. Are there suggestions for things to do on your own? Most tour companies want to make sure you get value for your traveling money, but check the scheduled times. If you are a late riser and the tour day begins early, will you get up and join in or sleep away your sightseeing time?
Many tour companies offer customized, or semi-custom tours in which you and the company work out an agenda to suit your interests. If this is offered, and you aren't exactly a people person, do look into it. Check into the experience of the guides and of the company. Are they established and known or are they just getting started in the business? There are pros and cons to each, so decide what is important to you.
Although no one wants it to happen, you may find yourself in an unsafe or dangerous situation. Be prepared by carefully reading all the information about Safety Issues.
