By Sabrina Rodriguez
About Traveling to South America
is an amazing continent, filled with natural wonders such as Foz do Iguaçu, amazing sites like Machu Pichu, and diverse peoples, including indigenous Amazonian Indians. Planning an enjoyable voyage includes attending to practical matters like acquiring visas and airline tickets and taking any necessary medical precautions both before and during your trip.
When is The Best Time to Travel to South America?
The best time to visit South America depends on which countries you will visit.
Generally speaking, it's best to visit during the continent's fall and spring, when the weather is temperate. This usually coincides with travel's shoulder season, so you may be able to find good deals on airfare.
Some countries, such as Bolivia, Brazil and Ecuador, experience a months-long rainy season. Read up on your destination(s) of choice in a reputable travel guide such as Fodor's or Frommer's before purchasing an airline ticket.
Which Countries Require Visas?
Only four countries in South America require visas for U.S. travelers: Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and Suriname.
Chile does not require U.S. citizens to obtain a visa, but they do require citizens pay a passport fee to enter the country.
How Can I Find a Good Deal on Airline Tickets to South America?
Generally speaking, during South America's winter (North America's summer), airfare prices tend to drop. You will also find better rates at hotels during winter months.
If you want to visit several countries during your trip, purchasing an air pass is a good way to economize. Air passes are usually valid for flights between South American countries, though rules and restrictions vary depending on the airline. Most major South America carriers offer some form of air pass.
Should I Get Any Innoculations Before My Trip?
Much of South America still consists of developing countries where certain diseases such as malaria and yellow fever are still endemic. Before traveling, consult with a travel medicine nurse or physician. He or she will make appropriate recommendations on any inoculations and prophylaxes you will need for the countries that you plan to visit.
How Can I Stay Healthy During My Trip?
Jefferson University Hospital's Travel Medicine Department offers these suggestions:
Eat only foods that are cooked. Avoid raw vegetables and fruits, other than bananas, oranges and other fruits which are protected by a peel.
Avoid street cart foods, and always drink tap water and refrain from using ice cubes. Do not drink unpasteurized milk products, and stay away from raw or uncooked seafood, such as sushi and ceviche.
Use insect repellents, special clothing and mosquito nets when visiting countries with mosquito-transmitted diseases such as malaria.
Resources
About the Author:
Sabrina Rodriguez has been writing professionally for 18 years, primarily for newsstand magazines and advertising agencies. She has published children's books, a cookbook and has worked on travel books. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in visual arts from Kutztown University and an Master of Arts in English from Arcadia University. She teaches writing from time to time in Philadelphia where she lives.
Photo Credits:
Dynise Balcavage
