If you’re reading this, then you’re either thinking about backpacking South America or, better still, you’ve already booked it. An exciting adventure awaits you! This blog post will help you make the most of your trip and ensure that you have the best experience you possibly can.
When is the best time to backpack in South America?
The first thing to remember about South America is that it is in the Southern hemisphere. This means that the seasons are reversed. Summer happens between November and February whilst the winter months hit between June and August.
The further south you venture, the more seasonal the climate becomes, with cities like Buenos Aires experiencing hot summers but colder winters. If you’re heading even further south, think like a Scandinavian: cool summers and deep snow in winter. Most of the northern countries are closer to the equator and so are an all year round destination, just watch out for the rainy season between January and March. The Inca trail is closed in February for maintenance, so be sure to bear that in mind if visiting is on your wish list.
Coastal towns and beaches tend to be busy between November and March, and Easter celebrations are a big thing across the whole region so be sure to book up accommodation ahead of time. Spring is generally considered the best time to visit, particularly in October and November as this is when there are amazing wildflowers and newborn baby animals aplenty.
Which countries are the ones that are worth seeing?
This largely depends on your personality and what you’re hoping to get out of the trip. The only real answer to this question is that the ones that you think are worth your time. Different countries offer different things.
Argentina is ideal for the culture vulture and night owl, Buenos Aires has a great clubbing scene and days start and finish late. There are plenty of theatres, bookshops, and a thriving music scene. This is the place to head if you want to alternate days of culture with lazy days and nights full of fun.
If you want to bum around on a beach, you’d probably prefer Brazil. There are over 4500 miles of coastline meaning some of the best beaches in the world. Brazil is absolutely the best place in South America to chill out and drink cocktails in the sun. If you enjoy a faster pace of life, then maybe Brazilian beach cities like Rio will be a better bet for you.
If you’re a foodie, head to Peru. Lima is internationally renowned for a delightful mix of Peruvian and Japanese food. Fusion cuisine at its best. However, if you’re a caffeine nut then the 350,000 hectares of coffee plantations in Columbia may be worth visiting. The history of Chile is will keep the history nuts obsessed for weeks whilst green-fingered environmentalists will love the wildlife in Ecuador and the Galapagos islands.
Wherever you choose to go should depend on what you want to get out of your trip. Good solid research around your interests will serve you well.
Some events to definitely catch
If you’re still in the planning stages of your trip then you might want to time your trip around some key South American events that are a once in a lifetime experience.
The Rio Carnival is the most famous party in the universe and is held in February. Although the whole of South America parties around this time, nobody does it harder than the inhabitants of Rio. A massive dance off happens at the end of the festival with around 200 schools competing to be the best. This is the ultimate party for the ultimate party animal. Just go easy on the cerveza if you’re in it for the long haul!
24th June is the time for the Inti-Raymi (Festival of the Sun). Banned by the Spaniards in 1536 and resurrected in the 1940s this is an amazing party in and around Cuzco, Peru. Be careful if you’re an animal lover, there are still two llamas ritually sacrificed every year.
November is time for El Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), and celebrations kick off on the 1st. This is a tradition that goes back 3000 years of honouring the dead with processions and offerings. If you’re not squeamish then head to Bolivia where the digging up and decorating of skulls is still, somewhat ironically, very much alive.
Health Concerns: Can I drink the water?
This depends on where you are. Some places it is perfectly fine to drink tap water. In other places, you might be at risk of nasty infections even when brushing your teeth. We’d recommend that you speak to a local guide on arrival about drinkable water, as it can sometimes depend on your specific location within a country. As a general rule, it is usually safer to drink the water in more urban areas than in the countryside.
Health Concerns: Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever is a potentially fatal illness for people who have not been vaccinated against it. Yellow Fever is a viral infection spread by the bite of a specific mosquito indigenous to South America and Sub-Saharan Africa. Symptoms of the disease include sudden fever, generalised muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, the mortality rate is around 60% for those not vaccinated. You can find out more about how to keep yourself safe from Yellow Fever here.
What should I pack?
Chances are you will need far less than you think. Remember to focus on essential lightweight stuff and be prepared to buy new things as you go. Remember to pack clothes that are suitable for the weather, temperature, and terrain that you’re travelling to, and don’t forget sunglasses. Be sure to include a hanging toiletries kit and miniature first aid kit and don’t forget a padlock and a waterproof documents bag.
Don’t forget your electronics. A travel camera is a must, with plenty of SD cards. Be sure that you have your phone with all the relevant add-ons such as a waterproof case, charger, and adapter. Take an e-reader with you and a portable power bank in case you leave civilisation for a while. We’d recommend that you get a money belt and always take out good travel insurance before you travel. Just in case.
Yellow Fever and the occasional rain shower might be the only unpleasant things you’re likely to encounter in this wonderful corner of the world. If you take the necessary steps to pack the right things, be in the right place at the right time and get vaccinated then you needn’t worry unduly. Travel responsibly and research well and you’ll be like the millions of travellers who enjoy the unparalleled beauty of South America.