South America

Safety in South America varies by country and region. Countries such as Chile, Uruguay and parts of Argentina are known to be relatively safe, while in other countries, such as Venezuela and parts of Brazil, it is wise to take extra precautions. It is important to follow travel advice and remain vigilant, especially in major cities. Tourist areas are generally safe, but it is always good to be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crime.

Yes, it is advisable to have travel insurance for travel to South America. Medical costs can be high in some countries, and good travel insurance will provide coverage for unforeseen expenses such as medical assistance, cancellations, or lost luggage. Since many travelers in South America undertake adventure activities such as hiking in the Andes or jungle tours, it is important to have insurance that covers these activities.

• Travel Insurance

The cost of traveling in South America varies greatly by country and region. In countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, big cities are more expensive, especially for accommodation and food. Countries like Bolivia and Ecuador offer affordable options, especially for backpackers. For budget travelers, costs range from $20 to $50 per day, while more luxurious trips can cost more. You can travel within South America on any budget.

As for means of payment, in most major cities you can easily pay with a credit card in hotels, restaurants and shops. In remote areas and small villages, however, cash is often the only option. ATMs are available in cities, but make sure you have some local currency with you for smaller purchases. It is wise to bring a (prepaid) credit card and some cash for emergencies.

• (prepaid) Credit card

Many travel companies offer trips to South America. They offer tours to popular destinations such as the Amazon, Patagonia and Machu Picchu. For adventurous travelers, there are also specialized travel companies that offer tours to remote areas, such as the Galapagos Islands or the Bolivian salt flats. Whether you choose a group trip or a tailor-made route, there are plenty of possibilities to discover South America.

The best time to visit South America depends on the region. For the Andes and Patagonia, the summer months (December to February) are ideal. The Amazon is hot and humid all year round, but the dry season (June to October) is better for trekking. The coastal areas have a tropical climate with high temperatures all year round.

In most South American countries it is advised not to drink tap water, as the water quality is not always reliable for travellers. In large cities in countries such as Chile and Argentina, tap water is often safe, but in most other countries bottled water is recommended. It is wise to follow local advice and when in doubt always opt for bottled water, especially in remote areas and small villages.

For most countries in South America, you do not need a visa as a tourist for shorter stays (up to 90 days). However, it is wise to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality and the country you are visiting in advance. Some countries require a return ticket and proof of accommodation upon arrival.

For long distances between countries in South America, domestic flights are the fastest option. Airlines such as LATAM and Avianca offer connections between major cities. For shorter distances, you can take the bus, which is an affordable and popular option for budget travelers. Within cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps such as Uber are convenient.

• Skyscanner

Yes, in most South American countries you will need a world adapter, as the sockets and voltages vary. Countries such as Brazil, Argentina and Peru often use type C or N, while other countries may have other types of plugs. The voltage is usually 220V, similar to Europe, but the plugs are different. A universal adapter is handy to take with you, so you can charge your devices everywhere.

• Voomy World Plug

Spanish is spoken in most South American countries, except in Brazil, where Portuguese is the official language. English is not widely spoken, especially outside of tourist areas. In hotels, restaurants and tourist offices in large cities, you can usually get by with English, but it is useful to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish. This will help you communicate in smaller towns and rural areas.