• From the ruins of Machu Picchu to the Amazon rainforest, South America offers a range of experiences to backpackers.

• When planning a trip to South America, consider travel insurance and proper vaccinations, and learn basic Spanish and Portuguese phrases.

• You may enjoy your journey better if you emphasize budget planning, packing essentials, and safety before starting the trip.

South America has so many different landscapes to explore, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains, salt flats, glaciers, and more. Backpacking through South America allows you to immerse yourself in these otherworldly environments. You will surely come back with unforgettable experiences.

South America is a continent of extremes and mesmerizes travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and adventurous spirit. But, South America is a big continent, so travel times between destinations can be long and backpackers must plan to spend at least a month to see a decent chunk of the continent.

This guide will help you experience the best backpacking South American routes and take you through an immersive journey.

Planning a South America Backpacking Trip

South America is a land of beautiful contrasts where you can enjoy wild landscapes and have fun at crazy parties at the same time. For backpackers, it is a playground for endless possibilities, and deciding which part to cover is an exciting yet complicated part.

However, there are certain factors that are major to consider when choosing South America as your destination for backpacking.

Visa Requirements

Most U.S. travelers can enter many South American countries without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. These include nations like Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, etc. However, Guyana, Venezuela, and Bolivia require US citizens to have a visa, which can be obtained in advance or upon arrival.

Many countries offer e-visa applications or visa-on-arrival options. However, these conditions may vary from time to time, so it is important to cross-check with the official authorities before visiting the country.

Maintaining Health while Backpacking South America

When traveling to the South American continent, travelers are likely to come in contact with diseases like malaria, dengue fever, traveler’s diarrhea, Chagas disease, yellow fever, hepatitis, rabies, typhoid fever, tuberculosis, and AIDS. So, it is important that you have all the vaccinations recommended by the CDC for South American countries.

Generally, travelers to South America are adviced to get vaccinated for mumps, yellow fever, hepatitis A, typhoid, measles, polio, tetanus, rubella, rabies, meningitis, diphtheria, and whooping cough.

Take care of your health and go for bottled or purified water, as tap water can often be unsafe. Consider using a water filter for added safety. Also, it is recommended to look into getting emergency medical expenses coverage in your travel insurance, as it can provide cover for certain health related emergencies such as accidental injury or illness.

Learning Local Languages

Spanish and Portuguese are the languages that are mostly used by the locals in South America. It will really help you to easily communicate if you learn some basic phrases such as ola, hola, buenos dias (good morning), como estas (how are you), qué tengas un lindo día (have a great day), etc.

One-Month Backpacking South America Itinerary

South America is the fourth-largest continent, with many enticing backpacking routes. It is up to you whether you want to cover most of the popular places or just want to explore the offbeat destinations.

Taking a one-month-long backpacking South America trip will let you cover most South American countries like Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina, among others. However, it is still quite rushed, with only 3-4 days in each country. For a more relaxed pace, consider focusing on just 2-3 countries in depth. Flights can help cover large distances, but South American trains provide cheaper alternatives and allow you to see more along the way. However, if you have more time on hand, we suggest more South American travel itineraries for extended routes.

The top South American backpacking route is the Gringo Trail. This trail refers to the Latin American places covered by foreigners. The whole trail covers 15 countries from Central and South America. You may adjust the itinerary at your convenience.

Columbia (3-4 days)

You can begin your backpacking from Bogota, the capital city of Columbia. Here, you can explore the city in a day, enjoying its history in museums such as the Gold Museum, Museo Nacional de Colombia, and Botero Museum. Another attraction that you can spend your time in is the flea market of the city.

After spending a day in Bogota, you can fly to Santa Marta and explore the vibrant culture of this place. Enjoy a full-day Minca tour and indulge in the coffee and cocoa tour.

If you are not interested in the Minca tour, you can alternatively consider hiking to Tayrona National Park and immerse yourself in the beauty of the beaches. Visiting this place also lets you explore the serene side of Central America and will disconnect you from your daily life.

Next you can visit Palomino city in Columbia, which is popular among backpackers for its serenity. You can enjoy tubing here in the jungle rivers and wander on the beach. Palomino Beach is a great place to spend a peaceful time and enjoy the luxuries of nature.

Ecuador (3-4 days)

In Ecuador, begin your trip from Quito. Check out its local markets, Quito historic center, Basilica del Voto Nacional, and take a day trip to the Equator.

Next, you can backpack to the famous Machachi city. If you want your trip to be more memorable, you may stay at Secret Garden Cotopaxi. Staying at this hostel will allow you to soak in the best views of the Cotopaxi Volcano. You can also hike to Cotopaxi National Park in Machachi. You can also plan a day trip from Cotopaxi to the Quilotoa Lake .

The last stop in Ecuador is Banos, where you can stay for two more days. Here, you can experience the thermal baths and enjoy the spa and massage day. Also, the route of waterfalls is an adventure paradise for backpackers. You can also trek to Swing at the End of the World and can also see the Tungurahua Volcano while in Banos.

 

 
Peru (6-7 days)

This country is full of iconic landmarks and rich history. Start your journey with Lima, the capital city of Peru. Spend a day here and explore the areas of Barranco and Miraflores, where you can enjoy the sunsets as well as dine in the old colonial style.

After Lima, you may like exploring Paracas. If you are a wildlife lover, you can visit the Ballestas Islands and enjoy the views of sea lions, penguins, and dolphins. You can also explore the Paracas National Park, and immerse in the beautiful views of sunset.

While backpacking Peru, allocate a couple of days for Huacachina as well. Here, you can enjoy views of the desert through sandboarding or buggies. You may also take a day trip to Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America by volume and surface area, known for numerous islands and a rich biodiversity of aquatic species.

Another place that you can explore in Peru is Cusco and Machu Picchu. Explore Cusco city for a day and also visit the Andean countryside, where you can check out the very famous Rainbow Mountain and several wonders in the Sacred Valley. Keep one whole day to visit the infamous Machu Picchu in Peru.

Bolivia (3-4 days)

You can continue your backpacking trip with La Paz in Bolivia after exploring Peru. Then you can trek to the Valley of the Moon and also ride on Death Road in La Paz. Other than these adventures, the city tour in Sucre takes you around some truly fascinating colonial cities. It is referred to as Bolivia's most beautiful city and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Another must-visit destination when you backpack South America is the Uyuni Salt Flats. It is said to be one of the most unreal and mesmerizing landscapes in the world. Some tours even offer camping experiences directly on the salt flats, allowing for an unforgettable night under the stars.
 

Chile (2-3 days)

Make the next stop in your South America backpacking route in the Atacama Desert and set base at the charming town of San Pedro de Atacama. It is the driest nonpolar desert in the world, the views are stunning here, and it is one of the best places to go stargazing. Many say that the soil here is very similar to Mars.

Further, you can move to Santiago and then witness the infamous wine routes in Chile. You can also hike to Cerro San Cristobal for the stunning panoramic views of the city and the Andes mountains. Also, you will find the finest wine places here, and you can end your journey by enjoying the popular Vina Vik experience.

Argentina (2-3 days)

From Chile, you can catch a flight to Argentina. Here, you can explore the vineyards in Mendoza, take a cooking class, and enjoy the wine-making process for a day or two. Argentina’s Patagonia district has breathtaking national parks such as Los Glaciares and Torres del Paine. Hiking, trekking, and wildlife spotting are some of the popular activities here. You can also explore Iguazu Falls from both Argentinian and Brazilian sides. You can take boat tours to appreciate this natural wonder. You may spend a leisurely couple of days here experiencing the food, art, and tango in Buenos Aires.

Brazil (5-6 days)

After spending a couple of days backpacking Argentina, you can move to Curitiba and immerse yourself in nature at Jardim Botanico, explore the historical center, and enjoy the well-planned urban layout of the city.

From Curitiba, you can move to Sao Paulo or discover Paraty. At Paraty, you can hike through the Atlantic forest and relax on the beaches by taking a boat from Paraty to the nearby islands. Surfers may hit the world-famous surf beaches in the southern state of Santa Catarina.

You can end your South America backpacking trip at Rio de Janeiro by immersing in the vibrant city with iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana, and Ipanema beaches. You can also explore the Corcovado hike and enjoy the lively nightlife in the city.

With this, you can end your one-month tour to South America. You can also add any activity and adjust the time accordingly as per your needs. If you wish to continue further, you can explore more places as guided by the locals of these countries.
 

Other Possible Backpacking Routes in South America

South America is incredibly diverse. Depending upon your interest, time frame and budget you may choose a different backpack South America itinerary. You can't go wrong with any of these options! The most important thing is to leave room for spontaneity and flexibility.

Important Tips for South America Backpackers

South America is a place that offers an incredible adventure for backpackers. However, there are certain things that are important to keep in mind while backpacking through South America.

Backpacking Budget For South America

South America remains a coveted destination for many backpackers, but setting a budget for your whole trip is necessary. Costs during a backpacking trip vary widely between countries. While countries like Argentina, Ecuador, and Peru are more affordable, Bolivia and Chile are expensive.

You may set a proper budget for accommodation, daily costs, food and transportation, and for other activities.

• Accommodations - Staying in hostels is one of the ways to cut down on accommodation expenses. You can also book your hostels in advance to save yourself from any surprises.

• Food - Street foods and cooking your own meals are some of the best ways to save on food expenses.

• Transport - Overnight buses are a reasonable option for exploring the South American nations. But it may be safe for you if you travel during the day. Traveling at night can lead to unsafe situations. You can also opt for train travel, but that might cost a little more. Some countries might have a large distance to cover, so make a budget for flights, too.

By choosing free walking tours, cooking meals, using public transport, and traveling during the off-season, you can significantly reduce costs. Remember to be flexible with your itinerary and use a travel debit card to save money.

Packing Tips

How you pack your backpack can impact your convenience through the trips. You must carry essential gear such as a sturdy backpack, a reliable tent, a sleeping bag, a cooking stove, a first-aid kit, and water purification equipment.

When it comes to clothing, pack as per the weather at the destination. Now the weather in South America is as diverse as its landscapes. So, you must pack layers to change temperatures. Also, consider quick-dry clothes for unexpected rain and comfortable footwear.

Carry lightweight backpacking food, such as energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and instant meals. You may also carry credit and ATM cards with you, along with enough cash. It would be really helpful to you if you researched the ATM fees before, as withdrawals can incur charges.

Lastly, pack your skincare essentials like sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's rays. Also, pack essential medications to ensure your well-being throughout the trip.
 

What Travel Insurance Do I Need for Backpacking in South America?

When backpacking in South America, travel insurance is not mandatory, but it can come in handy if your trip takes an unexpected turn. Look for a policy that includes medical emergencies and evacuation if you will be hiking at high altitude. Since you might be planning to explore some off beaten destinations, it is advisable to also consider baggage loss coverage in your plan.

Consider your age, pre-existing conditions and the value of your belongings when choosing among AXA Travel Protection Plans. Make sure you have coverage for the full duration of your trip, even if you need to extend it while traveling. Prioritize your safety and get the right travel insurance for your South American backpacking trip.

Is South America Safe for Backpacking?

Backpacking in South America is only safe when you are attentive and living there with precautions. South America is a vast continent, including a diverse range of countries. Each country in this continent has its own culture and safety regulations.

There might be some areas that can be riskier than others; however, it is advisable to always consider destinations when it comes to safety. Popular trails like Gringo trails are generally safe.

You just need to take care of a few things like avoiding walking in the night, staying up to date with the local news, keeping a low profile, and trying not to look like an outsider. You should also trust your gut feeling if you feel that there is something wrong while traveling. Also, protect your belongings and do not fall into the traps of dating apps.

Always remember that your experience is going to be different from that of other travelers. So, it is important to stay informed and take all the necessary precautions. It will help you to enjoy a safe and unforgettable backpacking trip in South America.
 

FAQs for Backpacking South America

1. What is the best time to go backpacking in South America?

The best time to visit South America is October to early December and April to May.

2. Is it mandatory to learn Spanish to backpack in South America?

Learning Spanish is not mandatory for traveling in South America. However, learning some basic phrases in the local language might make your backpacking journey easy.

3. What should I do if I need medical assistance while backpacking in South America?

You may contact AXA Travel Assistance to help you guide through the process of finding medical assistance in South America. They may even help you in communicating with the locals, and arrange for the next steps of medical care.

4. Which city is a must-visit when backpacking in South America?

Every country has something to offer to the backpackers. However, Machu Picchu and Amazon rainforests are places to visit if you are backpacking South America.

5. What is the best way to stay connected to the internet while traveling to South American countries?

Typically, many hostels and cafes provide free wi-fi. If you face any difficulty with the internet, you can also buy a local SIM card or a portable wifi device.
 

Also Read:Backpacking, Solo Backpacking, How to plan Backpacking, Backpacking adventure, Backpacking Food, Backpacking Travel Insurance