That feeling of packing up life in a backpack and leaving for the unknown is just so liberating, especially when that unknown is a continent as colourful, diverse, and enchanting as South America. From the majestic Andes to the rhythmic voice of the Amazon; from colonial towns to coastlines that seem even Photoshop cannot enhance—South America is more than a South America travel destination; it is a rite of passage.
This South America travel guide is truly your best friend on your journey, whether it is your first trip or you are using the guide after making many trips. Learn how to traverse the best places to visit and budget wisely in true travel pro-style. Ready to chase adventure? Let's go!
It's vivid, raw and full of surprises. South America travel destinations are not in moulded brochures; instead, they have been whispered in hostel kitchens, painted across local markets, and sung in samba by the streets. Further, it is very budget-friendly. While a part of your cost would come from the plane fare, once you enter any South American country, there are a million ways to make those dollars (or soles, pesos, and reais) last. Travel in South America offers world-class experiences if you know where to look without the world-class price tag.
Now let's analyse a couple of the unforgettable routes for your travel to South America:
1. The Gringo Trail
A classic for some reason, it moves through Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador, thus gathering all the heavyweights – Machu Picchu, Uyuni Salt Flats, Lake Titicaca, and Galápagos. This route is a backpacker's paradise – a cheap hostel, a much-trodden path, and an endless rotation of fellow adventurers.
2. The Patagonia Circuit
For those in love with seclusion, glaciers, and landscapes that defy logic. Trek through Torres Del Paine Chile and just fit in somewhere in an encouraging circle over to El Chaltén or Bariloche, Argentina. One of the best in South America travel to see for hikes and for dreamers.
3. Brazilian Coast + Iguazu Falls
Start in Rio and savour the beach culture, then head further south toward Florianópolis and west to Iguazu Falls – nature's answer to fireworks. Brazil may be the most expensive of the bunch and probably the best experience. Simply unbeatable.
4. The Colombian Loop
It seems Colombia is in the moment. From warm Medellín to magical Cartagena and surfing Palomino to Minca's jungle – this is South America's poster child. Less cash-out, more feeling in. A perfect combination.
Out there, miles and miles with no end in sight, every cent counted. Here's how to stretch that South America travel budget even more than your hiking boots:
For local-style hostels or guesthouses. Most give breakfast (a big win) and a chance to share experiences, etc., with other travellers who might have some tips for you. These days, one can also use Hostelworld or WhatsApp groups (yeah, it's a thing now).
Skip those tourist traps. Look for the corner vendor with the line. In Peru and Bolivia, menu del día-style deals for lunch will land you a full meal for less than $3; down in Colombia, grab arepas that are inexpensive, filling, and just downright addictive.
When it comes to long-distance, it is all about the bus. With overnight rides, you are moving to a new destination and saving a night’s accommodation simultaneously. Pro tip: Bring a blanket, earplugs, snacks, or five.
Google Maps Offline, Maps.me, and some Spanish translation apps can take your soul. The internet isn't always your best friend out in the wild Andes.
Packing light does not mean packing poorly for survival; here is a minimalist list to withstand anything the continent throws your way.
Bonus tip: Keep a hard copy of your passport and some hidden dollars somewhere safe.
The planning of one such grand journey needs to be well conceived at the outset – and sometimes that means allowing for a degree of simplicity in booking one's flights, accommodation, and tours through a credible source like On The Beach.
While beach holidays remain their forte (and boy, do they have that down), On The Beach also offers fully tailored packages and discount deals beginning from the first moment an ocean-side thought enters your head and extending to Machu Picchu.
Their platform is easy to use, trustworthy, and perfect for those who want more time mapping their routes rather than worrying about policy fine print.
Backpacking through South America travel is much more than just about the landmarks. It's about getting lost in a busy market in Cusco, feeling your heartbeat resonate in a canyon in Chile, sipping coffee with a stranger in Bogotá, and somewhere along the way, realising that all by itself – the continent has changed you.
Put on that bag. Brush up on your Spanish. Let the continent change you, story after story, trail after trail.
With the best plan, a better budget, and a little help from trustworthy sites like On The Beach, South America travel is closer than you'd think!
Keep the trail flagged, traveller
