Can You Travel South America By Bus?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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In the more developed countries of South America, such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay, bus travel can safely be called the best in all of the Americas . Air travel is still expensive for the majority of South Americans and most travelers take the bus, often on long-distance and overnight routes.

How do people travel to South America?

  1. By Plane.
  2. LAN offers the most comprehensive service in South America. Besides flying to most major cities in Chile and Peru, the airline also offers flights between Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Ecuador, Uruguay, and Venezuela. ...
  3. By Bus.

What is the best way to travel through South America?

If you’re pressed for time and want to explore a huge chunk of South America, flying is usually the best way to go . Just note that, although international flights within the continent are bound to be much more expensive than bus travel, budget airlines do exist in most countries.

What transportation should you not take in South America?

  • Traveling by Bus in South America.
  • Traveling by Taxi in South America.
  • Traveling by Train in South America.
  • Traveling by Plane in South America.

Can I travel to Peru Covid?

U.S. citizens traveling to Peru from the United States are not required to quarantine upon arrival to Peru and may proceed to their final destination upon arrival.

Are there buses in South America?

South America buses and trains are the most commonly used mode of transportation across the continent . They take you to zillions of fascinating places you will never see any other way, and as a result, get you ahead of the tourist crowd. But what if you are not wanting something too common.

How much do you need to travel South America for 6 months?

Shoestring Budget for 1 to 6 Months in South America

A figure of $1000 per month is a reasonable starting point for a shoestring budget for the region. Visit predominantly the Andean region of Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia and you can get by on less.

Is Chile open to travel?

Level 4 Travel Advisory for American Citizens: Do not travel to Chile due to COVID-19 .

Is Peru safe?

The threat of violent crime in most of Peru is no greater than many of the world’s major cities. Traveling around Peru is relatively safe , and the Shining Path Maoist rebel group has been largely disbanded. The Peru of today is a far cry from the militaristic repression, rebellion, corruption and terror of the past.

Is South America expensive?

South America is an amazing continent to travel on a budget, though you would be wrong to assume that every country in South America is cheap ! The least expensive countries are Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia and Colombia, each attracting large numbers of budget travellers.

What is the transport in South America?

South America by Bus. Bus travel is the most common form of public transportation in South America , both for short- and long-distance travel. Wherever there is a road, you can travel there by bus, shared minivan, or truck.

Is it safe to travel South America alone?

South America is a safe place to travel alone , but solo travelers in any destination should always be vigilant. Booking hostels in advance, writing down addresses and researching your route means you’ll walk purposefully and won’t have to get your phone out, making you less of a target for thieves.

Can you drive from Florida to South America?

You can drive from Florida to Brazil following the Pan-American highway . The only interruption presents itself in between Panama and Colombia where you will have to ship your car between continents because the Darien Gap is an impassable section of dangerous jungle.

Is it safe to road trip in South America?

Is South America Dangerous? While some parts of South America have been deemed dangerous by the U.S. Department of State, much of the continent is perfectly safe to visit . Travelers are advised to avoid the entire country of Venezuela due to ongoing political instability.

Can you travel South America by train?

Can you travel South America by train? Yes, you can ! Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia, in particular, are excellent destinations in South America to explore by train. Brazil has some fascinating train journeys and Argentina and Chile have train routes too.

Is Brazil Open for travel?

Brazil continues to experience high daily case numbers of COVID-19 throughout the country. On January 31st, Brazil moved to a Level 4 Travel Advisory (Do Not Travel) due to COVID-19 . U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime, as some areas have increased risk.

Is Bolivia open for travel?

Air borders are open and commercial flights are permitted to operate . Travelers should be prepared for additional travel restrictions affecting international travel to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.

What language do they speak in Peru?

Spanish is the official language of Peru. It was introduced by Spanish colonists during the colonisation of the Incas in 1532.

How much are buses in South America?

Bus travel is super affordable.

The average cost of bus travel ranges from $1-2 per hour in Bolivia and Ecuador, $3 per hour in Peru and $5-6 per hour in Brazil and Argentina .

Do South American buses have toilets?

For the most part, buses in South America do have toilets on board, with the main exception being Ecuador . Unfortunately, in most cases the toilets are unclean. They are usable if necessary, but if you can hold off until the end of your journey we’d recommend it.

What is the best bus to travel?

  • MEGABUS. Midwest & Northeast. Cities Served: 50+ ...
  • BOLTBUS. Northeast. Cities Served: 8. ...
  • LUX BUS AMERICA. L.A., San Diego & Vegas. Cities Served: 4. ...
  • VAMOOSE. Northeast. Cities Served: 4. ...
  • TRIPPER BUS. Northeast. Cities Served: 3. ...
  • REDCOACH. Georgia & Florida. Cities Served: 16.

What can you not do in South America?

  • Don’t – Travel with valuables such as jewellery. ...
  • Don’t – Photograph locals without permission.
  • Don’t – Be offended if a South American stands too close while talking. ...
  • Don’t – Accept drinks from strangers. ...
  • Don’t – Take public transport unless absolutely necessary!

How can I go to South America for cheap?

  1. 1) Pick the Right Destination(s) ...
  2. 2) Avoid Brazil. ...
  3. 3) Make Lunch the Big Meal. ...
  4. 4) Head to the Market. ...
  5. 5) Drink What’s Local. ...
  6. 6) Don’t Book All Your Hotels in Advance. ...
  7. 7) Take Your Time. ...
  8. 8) Learn Some Spanish.

How much money do you need for 2 months in South America?

All this can bring down your costs a lot. A good rule of thumb is you’ll need about $1100 a month for traveling on a budget in South America (for one person). Of course, your average could get a lot lower if, say, you end up staying in a rural village in Bolivia to volunteer.

Can I travel to Uruguay right now?

U.S. citizens are permitted to enter Uruguay as foreign visitors . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Uruguay, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country.

Do U.S. citizens need a visa for Chile?

U.S. citizens entering Chile must have a valid passport. U.S. citizens traveling to Chile for recreation, tourism, business, or academic conferences do not need to obtain a visa prior to their arrival in Chile . A Tourist Card will be issued for a stay of up to 90 days.

Is Chile safe for American tourists?

Chile is amongst the safest countries on Earth

It is usually considered the safest country in South America, together with Uruguay. Thanks to its low crime rates and nice behavior towards travelers, the “thin country” can be considered a very safe destination (especially if you visit its spectacular national parks).

Timothy Chehowski
Author
Timothy Chehowski
Timothy Chehowski is a travel writer and photographer with over 10 years of experience exploring the world. He has visited over 50 countries and has a passion for discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems. Juan's writing and photography have been featured in various travel publications.