Hey yall,
I am new to this board and luckily found it on google. Anyway, what do you yall think about traveling from Quito, Ecuador onwards to Bolivia (slowly) starting from the end of Jan - end April. I know its the rainy season and can present some problems, and I would like to take the bus to save money. What do you all think? Also, what are the \"reputable\" bus lines in each country.
Thanks so much.
Reply to this I travelled Peru and Bolivia these months,no problem.In Peru "Cruz del Sur is the best.Very comfy and safe.I'm told the conductors are armed for your safety
Reply to this Thanks ElAustraliano. What buslines would you recommend for Ecuador/Bolivia. Thanks again! Your recomendations are superhelpful. Im doing the jungle tour that you suggested, btw. goood stuff.
Reply to this In those countries I just got the next bus ,I didn't bother which companies.Both times I've been to Sth Am I started from Lima so just wanted a bit of comfort to jetlag.1st class on Sth American buses is a few $ more expensive but is very comfy ,like 1st class on plane.The upstairs aren't bad either though.
Reply to this Oh and if you have been reading my answers you would know my LOVE for Colombia.Why is it not on your itinary?
Reply to this this might sound ignorant, but i am scared of the kidnappings in colombia. i do know that cities tend to be more safe, and that there are thousands of people who have a great time in colombia every year. but i just cant help but think of the american guy getting stabbed in the costal beaches of ecuador which bordered colombia and a few other incidents. for that reason, i probably wont be visiting the border of ecuador and colombia, either.
did you ever get stuck in the mud while you were traveling the "rainy season?" do you think 3 months of travel between ecuador and bolivia is doable? if i had some more time, id like to squeeze in some patagonia love, however, that might not be possible? where spanish schools a big part of your itinerary too?
Reply to this Colombia is a paradise.The USA has spent 100s of millions on the Colombian Army/Police Force to help establish stability ,and get themselves a base in socialist South America, but it is having the desired affect.I crossed from Tulcan ,Ecuador, into Colombia and the 1st few days I was a feeling a bit the same as you but within 3 days I was madly in love with this incredible ,happy ,friendly country.You took my advise on the Iquitos trip ,please take my advise this time and add Colombia to your itinary.Maybe travel Cali ,Bogota ,Medallin ,Bucaramanga , San Gil ,Santa Marta/Taganga , Cartagena ,Monteria ,Medallin ,Bogota.I was supposed to fly home from Mexico City ,this year ,but as soon as I got to Panama I missed Colombia so much I went straight back and changed my return tickets to Bogota.I will see Central America and Mexico another time.
Patagonia is gorgeous .Ushuaia and Moreno Glacier where my fave places there
Reply to this I have travelled South America but not Columbia. Every single person I have talked to, who has been there, said it is the best country they have visited. Dont have my regrets of not going there!
Reply to this I have a question about visas. IF i plan on hitting up Ecuador on February 1st, and get my 90 day visa, but leave mid march to travel around other countries in SA, can i re-enter ecuador May 1st (the first day of expiration of my visa) and get a NEW 90 day visa in Ecuador? The reason is I'd like to stay in SA for 100 days, and I am planning on getting my round trip ticket for that time span, but must reenter Ecuador to fly home. Does anyone have any definitive answers? Thanks!!
Reply to this Yes you can leave most Sth American countries and return next day for full visa.6 weeks in Ecuador is a bit much though ,unless you're doing Spanish lessons.It has some great places but is not my favourite country in Sth Am ,you could easily see all the highlights in 2weeks.
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