Low – budget‑friendly basics
Medium – moderate mid‑range costs
High – pricey lodging, dining & transport
South America
South America Overview & Key Highlights
South America is a continent of contrasts, offering lush rainforests, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and dramatic landscapes like the Andes and Patagonia.
Essential South America Logistics & In-Depth Travel Tips
South America is a diverse continent with something for every traveler. Brazil boasts stunning beaches and the Amazon rainforest, while Argentina offers tango, wine regions, and glaciers. Peru’s Machu Picchu is an iconic site, and Chile is home to the Atacama Desert and Torres del Paine. In Colombia, you’ll find colorful colonial towns and coffee plantations, while Ecuador provides access to the Galápagos Islands.
Things to Do:
- Explore ancient ruins like Machu Picchu and Easter Island.
- Visit vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Bogotá.
- Trek through Patagonia or the Andes.
- Experience the Amazon rainforest.
- Enjoy cultural festivals like Carnival in Brazil or Inti Raymi in Peru.
Things to Avoid:
- Overlooking altitude acclimatization in the Andes.
- Venturing into remote areas without a guide.
- Drinking tap water in most countries.
- Carrying valuables in crowded areas.
- Disrespecting local customs or nature.
Did You Know?
South America is home to the world's largest river (the Amazon) and the driest desert (the Atacama Desert).
Accessibility Level: Medium
Accessibility varies widely between urban areas and remote regions. Major cities often have accessibility features, while rural or natural areas can be challenging.
Address:
South America
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Basic Info
COUNTRY & Region
South/Latin America
ACCESSIBILITY LEVEL
Medium
LOCAL CURRENCY
Brazilian Real (BRL)
Price Level
Medium
SAFETY LEVEL
Recommended Duration
• More than a week
Electricity
Electricity
100-110V,
100-110V,
Plug Type
• Type A (Flat blade)
• Type B (Flat blade with grounding pin)
• Type C (Round pin)
• Type I (Two flat pins in V-shape, grounding pin)
• Type B (Flat blade with grounding pin)
• Type C (Round pin)
• Type I (Two flat pins in V-shape, grounding pin)
Things To Do In South America
Total: 13
Activities To Do In South America
Best Time To Visit
The best months to visit South America depend on the destination, as climates vary by region.
- Spring (September-November): Ideal for exploring the Andes and Patagonia; warm and blooming.
- Summer (December-February): Great for beach destinations like Brazil, but rainy in the Amazon.
- Autumn (March-May): Comfortable weather for most destinations; vibrant landscapes.
- Winter (June-August): Perfect for trekking in the Andes and visiting Machu Picchu.
Click here for a detailed weather report for South America
Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.
SAFETY Level
Relatively Safe. South America offers unforgettable experiences, but safety varies by country and region. While many areas are welcoming to tourists, some cities face higher crime or political unrest. Always research local conditions, register with your embassy, and avoid isolated or protest-prone areas.
The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.
Emergency Numbers
Police: Varies by country (e.g., 911, 190, 133)
Ambulance: Varies by country (e.g., 911, 192, 131)
No internet needed • Includes local translations • Free for TravelingWiz readers
Spoken Languages
The primary language is Spanish, with Portuguese in Brazil and indigenous languages like Quechua and Aymara in some regions.
Learn The Language
- Hello: Hola (Spanish) / Olá (Portuguese)
- Thank you: Gracias / Obrigado
- How much does it cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta? / Quanto custa?
- Excuse me: Perdón / Com licença
- Where is the bathroom?: ¿Dónde está el baño? / Onde fica o banheiro?
- Help!: ¡Ayuda! / Socorro!
Trip Cost & Budgeting for South America, 2026
Everything you need to know about money while traveling
Is South America expensive for tourists in 2026? Generally, it offers a medium price level for travelers, with costs varying by country and travel style. Expect to pay around $3.00 for a cappuccino, $3.50 for a pint of domestic beer, and $18.00 for a standard main meal in a mid-range restaurant. These are Human Verified prices to help set realistic expectations for your journey. Use the data table below to calculate your specific daily budget based on your travel style.
LOCAL CURRENCY:
Brazilian Real (BRL)
Price Level:
Medium
Cards Vs. Cash
Card acceptance is widespread in cities, but cash is essential for smaller vendors and rural areas.
How Much Cash to Carry (on you)
Per person, per day – pocket cash for small purchases.
Local: 20
Brazilian Real (BRL)
≈ 20 USD
Average Daily Costs (per person)
Full daily spend estimation (accommodation, food, transportation, attractions).
Travel Style | Argentine Peso (ARS) | ≈ USD ($) |
|---|---|---|
Budget | 50 | 50 |
Mid-range | 90 | 90 |
Comfort | 200 | 200 |
The Prices, Daily costs, and calculator results are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on season, booking timing, personal spending habits, and currency fluctuations. TravelingWiz cannot be held responsible for discrepancies between these estimates and your final trip expenses.
Best Value Tips
- Embrace local eateries and "menu del día" for affordable, authentic meals.
- Opt for public transportation, including overnight buses, to save on costs.
- Stay in hostels or guesthouses with kitchen access to prepare some of your food.
- Carry small denominations of local currency for street vendors and rural areas.
Pre-Order Tickets
Avoid disappointment when tickets sell out — and skip the long lines by booking online in advance. You’ll often save up to 20% too.
Save up to 20%
Travel Discounts & Coupons
Save on hotels, attractions, transport, and gear — find verified discounts for smarter travel spending.
Verified Coupons
What To Pack
- Light, breathable clothing for warm climates.
- Layers for colder regions like Patagonia or the Andes.
- Sturdy hiking boots for trekking.
- Waterproof gear for rainforest visits.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
Related Travel Tips
Recommended Itineraries for this Destination
Step 1: Find the Perfect Accommodation
Explore a wide range of hotels, boutique stays, and vacation rentals to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxury options to cozy family stays, find the best place for your trip.
Step 2: Book Your Flights
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Step 3: Let a Tour Guide Help
Not sure where to start? A professional local tour guide can create a customized itinerary or assist you in planning your trip. Make your journey seamless and stress-free.
Step 4: Rent a Car
Travel at your own pace by renting a car. Whether you’re exploring cities or embarking on a road trip, find reliable and convenient car rental options.
Step 5: Get Travel Insurance
Protect yourself and your loved ones with comprehensive travel insurance. Our partners offer plans to cover every aspect of your journey.
Step 6: Need a Visa?
Check visa requirements for your destination and apply quickly with trusted services. Simplify the process and ensure you’re ready to travel without delays.
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