6 Travel Tips after 2 Years of Traveling in South America

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South America is proven to be one of the most amazing and challenging places for venture. Diversity is

what makes South America such an astonishing place, with hundreds of interesting sites to explore.

Backpacking South America is definitely a unique experience which I would recommend to anyone, at

least once in a lifetime.

However, before venturing into the wild, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. When I

first arrived on the continent, I was pretty insecure and I didn’t know what to expect. This won’t happen

to you, because I prepared a 6 tips that will allow you to enjoy every single moment of your trip. So, let’s

get to it!

1. Practice Speaking the Local Language

Knowing at least a few words in Spanish or Portuguese might come in handy while exploring this

beautiful continent. Learn how to communicate the basics like ordering food, asking for directions,

greeting, and thanking.

I know, I know, learning a new language might be challenging but remember, you are doing it for the

sake of your wellbeing. You can use translation software or writing service to help yourself communicate much more

efficient. So before leaving for South America, get a few Spanish lessons!

2. Pack Wisely

South America is a wild continent when it comes to its climate. Therefore, packing the right stuff is

extremely important. Start by making a checklist, everything from clothes to toothpaste should be

marked on the list.

Let’s say you are heading to Patagonia. In that case, you should pack raining clothes and warm clothes

for chill nights. Make sure to check the country’s weather and season before you start to pack. If you are

heading to the Amazon, it would be a great idea to pack a bug repellent and a pair of sunglasses.

This will allow you to focus on seeing the wildlife instead of fighting with mosquitos. Another few

important stuff that you should always carry are your passport, some local cash, and a camera, in case a

miracle happens, like seeing a jaguar.

3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Every time you decide to travel in a foreign country, make sure that you stay safe. Staying safe means

that you are completely aware of your surroundings and you are not willing to engage in any kind of

conflicts with the locals. At night, stay indoors, and while exploring the surroundings, don’t carry any

valuables. Most hotel rooms have a safe box. So, make sure all your important belongings are stored in

it.

4. Make Copies of Important Documents

As we’ve mentioned earlier, keeping your documents safe is a priority. Therefore, your cards, passports,

and all your insurance documents should be organized and kept in a safe place. More than that, having a

copy for each of your documents might come in handy in case you lose or misplace them. Remember to

keep all your original documents in one place. Just leave them in your safe box at your hotel and

everything should be fine.

5. Talk to Your Doctor Before Leaving

You should consider contacting your insurance agency to find out more about your health coverage

while being in South America. Tell your doctor exactly where you are going, and ask him for shots that

could protect you throughout your traveling journey. You should also consider carrying a first aid kit at

all times. The kit should contain ointments and medicines, and even antivenin as you never know.

6. Remember to Relax

It’s your long awaited holiday, so try to relax and emerge into this new culture. While exploring, make

sure to experiment one place at a time. Take your time and enjoy that particular place. Talk with the

natives and try to understand their perception of life. Remember to drink water and eat properly so

your energy levels will be always high and ready for a new adventure. Live every second while enjoying

this marvelous continent!

Conclusion

As you can see, South America can be a dream place and at the same time, a nightmare. It only depends

on how well you are prepared. Before leaving for South America, make sure to learn everything you can

about the countries that reside here. It’s a wild place, so be prepared!

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