Whether you’re seeking to uncover ancient ruins, marvel at diverse wildlife, or take in stunning natural beauty, meticulous planning is vital. Travelstride offers valuable resources and tools to help you prepare for the ultimate South American adventure.
Assess Your Interests and Preferences
Determine what you’d like to experience in South America, such as historic cities, iconic landmarks, or cultural immersion. Using Travelstride filters, you can find tour companies specializing in these experiences. For example, cultural tour companies may offer tours to the ancient temples of Machu Picchu or discover indigenous traditions in Ecuador.
Choose the Right Itinerary
Once you know what you want, review detailed itineraries from leading South America operators on Travelstride. Look for trips that include activities you like and places you’re interested in, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue, Torres del Paine, or Chile’s wine country, for a well-rounded experience.
Budget and Value for Money
Budget is a crucial factor when selecting a tour. Travelstride organizes tours by price, making it easy to find options that fit your budget. Detailed descriptions help you understand what’s included in each tour so you can find the tour that offers the most value for your budget.
Group Size and Tour Type
Consider the group size that best suits your travel style.
Small group tours often provide a more intimate experience, while larger groups may offer cost savings. Travelstride allows you to filter by group size and type to match your preferences, whether a guided tour, private excursion, or self-guided journey.
Check Reviews and Ratings
Reading reviews helps you understand what each tour really looks like. For example, reviews might highlight exceptional guides for a trek through Patagonia or unique lodging during a stay in the Amazon. Travelstride’s most-reviewed tours provide additional insight for a confident choice.
Assess Your Fitness Level
Knowing your fitness level and the demands of a tour can help you enjoy every moment without feeling worn out. With Travelstride’s Physical Level scale, it’s easy to find and filter tours that perfectly fit your pace and activity style.
The Physical Level scale has the following difficulty levels:
- Very Easy: Ideal for relaxed sightseeing or leisurely nature walks.
- Easy: Light walking and short excursions, perfect for visiting city landmarks.
- Moderate: Great for active travelers with activities like gentle hikes and kayaking.
- Strenuous: Suitable for more challenging hikes and sustained outdoor activities.
- Extreme: Designed for high-intensity adventures like mountaineering or multi-day hikes.
Get Travel Insurance
Comprehensive
travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Travelstride helps you find the best insurance options to ensure peace of mind as you tour South America.
Prepare Necessary Documents
Ensure your passport is valid, and check if a visa is required for any destinations. Make copies of essential documents and keep digital backups. Use our
visa reference links as the first step to understanding visa requirements and necessary documents.
Custom Guided Tours
- Private Guides: Book a guide to get unique insights and focus on your pace and interests.
- Tailor-made Itineraries: Customize itineraries to include places you’re eager to explore and activities you wish to enjoy.
Special Accommodations: Arrange specific needs like dietary restrictions or mobility assistance, enhancing travel comfort.