Planning basics
South America is far bigger than most first-time visitors expect. Overland distances are long, and a route that looks short on a map can take a full day or night on a bus. The most common mistake is trying to cover too many countries in too little time. A slower trip focused on two or three countries is usually more enjoyable than a rushed loop of six.
Details like fares, border rules and entry requirements change, so confirm them with current official sources.
Seasons
The continent spans the equator, so there is no single best month. As a rough guide:
- Andes (Peru, Bolivia, northern Chile and Argentina): the dry season, roughly May to September, is the usual choice for trekking, though nights at altitude are cold.
- Patagonia (southern Chile and Argentina): the warmer months, roughly November to March, are most popular, with wind a constant factor.
- Amazon and lowlands: conditions vary with rainy and dry periods, and river levels change what is possible.
Altitude
Cusco, La Paz and many Andean towns sit at high elevation. Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. Common advice includes ascending gradually, allowing rest days on arrival, drinking water and avoiding heavy exertion at first. Speak to a doctor or travel clinic before your trip, especially if you have health conditions.
The classic Andean route
The most popular backpacker route runs south through Peru and Bolivia into Chile and Argentina.
- Lima, Peru. A common arrival point with a good food scene.
- Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The base for Machu Picchu. Spend a couple of days adjusting to altitude first.
- Lake Titicaca (Puno or Copacabana). The crossing into Bolivia is straightforward by bus.
- La Paz and Sucre, Bolivia. High-altitude cities with a very different feel from Peru.
- Uyuni salt flats. Typically visited on a multi-day jeep trip that ends in or near Chile.
- San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. A desert base with stargazing and short hikes.
- Santiago and onward. Continue to Patagonia, or head east into Argentina.
Sample itineraries
About three weeks
Focus on Peru and Bolivia: Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, La Paz and Uyuni. Some travellers add a flight to Easter Island or a few days in Santiago, but that stretches the schedule.
About six weeks
Add Sucre, the Atacama and Chilean or Argentine Patagonia, or add northern Peru (Huaraz) for trekking in the Cordillera Blanca.
Three months or more
Connect Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina. This allows time for slower travel, language practice and weather delays. You can also add Brazil, which usually works better as its own trip given its size.
Hiking add-ons
- Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Permits are limited, so booking well in advance is essential. Alternatives such as the Salkantay trek and Lares trek exist for those who miss out.
- Huayhuash and Santa Cruz (Peru). High-altitude treks in the Cordillera Blanca region, best in the dry season. Santa Cruz is popular and well-trodden, while Huayhuash is more demanding.
- Torres del Paine (Chile). The W Trek and the longer circuit are among Patagonia’s best-known routes. Campsites and refugios often need advance reservations; see how to plan a backpacking trip for permit and logistics basics.
- Fitz Roy area (Argentina). Day hikes and short overnight options around El Chaltén.
If you are weighing these against other regions, see our guide to the best countries to backpack in, or compare with the best treks and hiking trips in Asia.
Getting around and crossing borders
Long-distance buses are the backbone of overland travel, with overnight options that save on accommodation. Flights can save days on long hops such as Lima to Santiago or Santiago to Patagonia. Border crossings are usually manageable but can involve queues and paperwork, and rules can change, so check requirements and opening hours in advance.
Safety and budget notes
Petty theft is a risk in busy areas and on transport, so keep valuables out of sight and use a lockable bag. Check your government’s travel advice for each country before you go. Daily costs vary a lot by country, with Bolivia typically cheaper and Chile and Argentina typically more expensive. Budget more for tours, permits and treks than for beds and meals, and carry some cash because cards are not accepted everywhere.
Packing for a mixed trip
Layers matter more than bulk, since you may go from hot lowlands to freezing high passes within days. Sturdy shoes, a warm midlayer and a rain shell cover most situations, and dedicated trekking gear can be rented in places like Cusco and Huaraz if you prefer to travel light.