Last Updated on January 20, 2026 by Ariana Svenson
Looking for the best South America tips? A trip to South America is an adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences. However, travelling to a foreign country or continent also comes with its own set of challenges and considerations.
From planning your South America itinerary to understanding the local customs, there are several aspects to keep in mind before and during your trip.
South America as a Family
South America is truly an amazing continent with a huge number of surprisingly family-friendly travel experiences that range from exploring the Amazon rainforest (especially the Peruvian Amazon!), hiking the Inca Trail to the world-famous Machu Picchu, exploring huge cities like Buenos Aires, relaxing on stunning beaches, discovering beautiful markets, and incredible biodiverse islands like the Galapagos.
Having visited South America with my family, I can share firsthand tips and recommendations based on our experiences across the continent.
South America is a great place to travel with kids. In general, South American people value family, and kids are loved. Unlike many Western cultures, which focus on time and personal comfort, South American cultures are much more relaxed.
They live more in the moment, and so if they see a cute kid, they will genuinely stop to have a chat or play. They are generally likely to offer you a hand or try to help if they can.
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Tips for Traveling to South America
Here are our essential South America tips to make your holiday as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
1. Planning Your Dream Trip: Route and Itinerary
It’s advisable to have a general route planned, as travel between locations can be time-consuming. South America is a massive continent, after all. To truly experience what it has to offer, consider spending a few weeks exploring. Even then, it’s impossible to see everything in one trip due to the continent’s diversity and size.
If you’re visiting somewhere like the Galapagos Islands or taking a trip across the Andes Mountains, your route should be fully planned in advance due to limited flights and logistical constraints.
A flexible itinerary across the amazing continent, with must-see destinations and a rough timeline, but leaving room for impromptu trips and local recommendations, is key. For example, plan to visit Machu Picchu and the Galapagos, but leave space for unexpected discoveries.
You should also plan your route around tickets and availability. For example, if you’re planning to hike to Machu Picchu, especially if you want to hike the Classic Inca Trail, you’ll need to prioritise getting tickets. I highly recommend Apus Peru for this! Only registered tour operators can sell Inca Trail passes. Apus also has a range of Machu Picchu tours.
2. Don’t Miss the Highlights – But Don’t Squeeze too Many in!
South America is packed with incredible things to experience, and it’s tempting to cram your itinerary with every must-see destination, from Rio to Machu Picchu.
However, when traveling with kids, slow travel almost always wins. The distances in South America are huge, and seeing just one country is a major task.
Pick just one or two countries for your trip, settle in, adjust to the time zone, and enjoy the places you’ve traveled so far to see.
3. Travel Tip: Make a Child-Friendly Holiday Plan
Making an itinerary that has plenty of downtime where you can play with your kids should mean that everyone is happy and relaxed, and the kids have the chance to let off some steam.
One of my favorite cultural places of interaction is playgrounds, where kids can see or experience different languages and cultures. If you really want your kids to learn about other cultures, take them to a playground. I firmly believe that young ones will learn way more there than in any museum! For example, when exploring Lima with kids, we found plenty of playgrounds off the tourist trail.
My kids love to swim, so having a pool at the hotel is ALWAYS considered a treat for them. So, even if we’ve had a long, tiring travel day, they go and jump in the pool in the dark, and their humor improves. This is also something we prioritised in Lima. View the top family hotels in Lima here.
In short, you may not want to visit playgrounds or hang around the pool, but if everyone is happy and relaxed, then things will flow much better. In addition, from a safety perspective, if parents are not wrangling screaming kids and taking their eyes off the luggage, it is a win!
4. Vaccinations for South American Countries
Before heading to South America, ensuring you are up-to-date with routine vaccinations is important.
Each country in South America may have different vaccination requirements and health considerations, so it’s essential to check the specific guidelines for your destination.
Some countries require specific vaccinations, like the Yellow Fever vaccine, before entry. Recommendations vary by country, but common vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and, sometimes, Rabies, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors or with animals. Malaria prevention medication might also be advised for certain areas.
Here are the recommended sites to look at what vaccines you need:
- If you’re based in the UK, check UK health advice for the country you’re visiting.
- Visit this site if you’re based in the US.
- If you’re based in Australia, look at Passport Health Global.
5. Take Out a Copy of Everyone’s Passport
It is always recommended to take a copy of your passport while travelling. Your passport is the most important document you’ll carry while travelling abroad. Losing it can lead to a lot of hassles and delays. Hence, it’s always advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport, as well as a digital copy stored securely online or on a device you carry with you.
Carry a photocopy of your passport separately from your original so you still have a copy if you lose your bag (or it gets stolen). Showing a photocopy of your passport can be useful for identification in non-official contexts, and a digital copy can be a lifesaver if you lose your original and need to get a replacement from your embassy.
Remember: Also, leave a copy with a trusted person back home.
6. Only Take 1 Credit Card Out with You – But Bring 2
Make sure you have at least two debit/credit/travel cards, keeping one as a backup in case the other is stolen or lost
This way, you won’t find yourself stranded without any money!
7. Make Sure You Have Good Travel Insurance When Visiting South America
Although travel insurance is an initial expense, it can save you from incurring massive debts in case of unforeseen events. Medical emergencies are not the only reason to get insured; good insurance can protect you against things like flight delays, lost baggage, or a stolen phone.
Make sure your insurance covers what you plan on doing during your trip. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
I have used my travel insurance so many times when overseas, from lost luggage claims (where a suitcase goes missing for over 2 days) and needing to buy emergency items, right through to hospitalization for sickness. For example, in 2023 my 13 year old ate something bad and ended up in the hospital in Cusco. What could have been an expensive exercise didn’t cost much at all.
Need to get an insurance quote quickly? Try Rise & Shield or Safety wing
8. Check Your Government Travel Advice
Travel advisories provide up-to-date information on safety and security, local laws and customs, entry requirements, health conditions, and other important details that might affect your travel plans.
Governments regularly update travel advisories based on the current situation in a country, including political instability, natural disasters, or disease outbreaks.
Advisories: US Travel Advisory
If you can, sign up for email alerts for the country you’re travelling to so you can get up-to-date info if something changes.
9. Check the Global Peace Index
Before choosing your destination, it’s also wise to check the Global Peace Index. It’s a great snapshot of each country’s safety. It’s a combination of 23 indicators, including crime rate, perceptions of safety, political unrest, and more.
Advisories will help you make informed decisions about your travel plans and also help you prepare for any potential risks or challenges that you may come across during your trip.
You can read our guide to the safest countries in South America here.
10. Tourist Visas for Your South America Trip
Getting the correct visa for your South American trip is essential for a smooth experience. When you travel to South America, visa requirements vary by country and depend on your nationality.
Some other countries also offer visa-on-arrival or do not require a visa for certain nationalities, while others necessitate applying in advance – don’t wait until the last minute to find this out.
Check the requirements for each country you plan to visit well ahead of your trip, ESPECIALLY if you plan to visit multiple countries. Some countries, like Brazil, have started offering e-visas, which can be applied for online.
11. Getting to South America with Kids
If you can, try to book a direct flight at a time when you can reduce jetlag. Some of the main entry points into South America include:
- Santiago, Chile
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Lima, Peru
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Bogotá, Colombia
- Quito, Ecuador
- Montevideo, Uruguay
These airports all have a good variety of long-haul routes and long-haul connections to your potential final destination.
If possible, pick flights that line up with your children’s natural sleep rhythms, even if it means a longer layover or a slightly higher fare.
For arrivals, try not to schedule anything demanding in the first 24–48 hours.
12. ATM’s, Withdrawal Fees, and Exchange Rates
Though many parts of the world now exist as almost cashless societies, its not the case in South America. You still need cash for a lot of transactions.
ATM fees can add up quickly when you’re abroad for an extended period. Most banks in South America charge withdrawal fees, even if you have a travel card.
Here are some essential tips:
- Research Banks: Before you travel, research the banks in the area you’ll be visiting. Find out which ones allow the amounts you want to withdraw and charge the lowest fees.
- Maximize Each Withdrawal: Unless you’re absolutely certain you won’t need the money, withdraw the maximum amount allowed each time to minimize the number of transactions and, therefore, the total fees. I didn’t do this on my last trip and was paying $10 – $15 in fees every time I made a withdrawal. What a newbie mistake that I paid for dearly.
- Check Exchange Rates: Always check the exchange rate earlier in the day to avoid being ripped off when exchanging leftover currency at land borders.
- Use Reputable ATMs: Stick to ATMs located inside banks or in well-lit, busy areas to minimize the risk of card skimming or other fraud.
- Notify Your Bank: Let your bank know you’ll be travelling abroad to avoid having your card blocked for suspicious activity. This is especially important if you plan to make large withdrawals.
13. Tip for Travelling South America: Learn the Language
Learning even a few phrases in the local language can make a big difference to your trip. Most countries in South America are Spanish-speaking countries, except for Brazil, where Portuguese is the official language.
Learning the basics is important. Knowing a few phrases will also help you connect with the locals better. Yes, many locals in South America speak English, but a little Spanish still goes a long way. If you’re travelling to remote areas, English will not be as well-known as in major cities.
Learning a new language before a trip is a great way for kids to learn about a new culture. It also helps them interact with locals during the trip, boosting their confidence. You could even consider enlisting in Spanish lessons either before or during your trip. There are some great options for this when visiting Cusco with kids.
14. South America With Kids: Try Not to Let Your Kids Get Into a Taxi Before You
In South America, you should know that a taxi could drive off. When I was last in Bogotá, Colombia, a taxi driver drove off with my 4.5-year-old and 9-year-old ALONE. My eldest daughter was with me in another taxi, and my scream of horror was so high-pitched I pierced her ears. Taxi A did call Taxi B and it turns out it was must a miscommunication and I was reunited with my kids within 4 minutes!
After I posted on Instagram about the experience, other parents living or traveling in South America shared that they try not to let their kids get into a taxi before them!
15. Only Get Official Taxis
Using only official taxis reduces the risk of overcharging, theft, or other potentially dangerous situations. Unofficial taxis might offer lower rates, but often lack proper licensing and insurance and may have tampered meters.
Official taxis in major cities are usually registered with the city, have visible identification, and can often be booked through a hotel, restaurant, or a reliable app.
With the likes of Uber these days, you are going to be much safer in general. We used Uber a lot in Lima, and the taxis came quickly and for a reasonable price. I am familiar with Cusco, and taxis are everywhere. You can pick one up in a minute, so we didn’t use Uber.
16. Buses in South America
Traveling across South America’s massive continent can be an adventure in itself, especially when crossing borders or on long bus journeys between major cities and remote regions. We’ve covered taxis and short-haul flights, but what other options do you have?
Buses are a popular and affordable way to get around, but it’s wise to research routes and book tickets in advance, particularly for popular destinations. If you are planning to take the bus, be profoundly honest with yourself: how will your child or children cope with a 9 or 10-hour bus ride? (Some kids will be ok – some not!).
Pay a little more for a reputable or well known bus service that goes directly from A to B. There are a lot of local buses that will stop at every town on the route, adding literally hours to your trip.
17. Backup Your Photos
Losing your photos can be heartbreaking, whether it’s due to a technical error or theft. Make a habit of backing up your photos daily on a cloud service or an external device to ensure you have a safe copy of your memories.
Whether you have insurance or not, this is one precaution you should take to minimize the impact of loss or theft.
18. Be Aware, Not Paranoid
If you have ever taken a defensive driving course, you will know that you are advised to constantly be on the lookout for potential problems by scanning the road ahead. In a way, that’s my main recommendation when travelling to South America.
When you are at transition points, like arriving at airports or hotels, be aware of what you are doing and scanning for issues. My partner Norman grew up in a barrio (neighborhood) in Nicaragua, and he always looked out for potential problems, as if it was ingrained into his way of looking at the world.
This is the kind of vigilance you need when on holiday – and also a lot of common sense. Don’t leave your handbag hanging over a chair or your phone sitting on a table in plain sight. Pack them away.
19. Be Aware of Scams
Scams do exist… and it’s being alert to them that matters. There are a lot of scams in South America, and the majority of them work around “weird things happening” that divert your attention from your belongings.
This is when your intuition comes into play. If something feels off or odd – don’t hang around to see what happens – get out of there.
One popular scam is when one person splatters a liquid resembling bird droppings on tourists, and another person offers to help clean it, using the distraction to pickpocket the victim. If something lands on you, it’s best to ignore it and walk away without accepting help from strangers.
20. Eat From the “Menu del Día” at Lunchtime
Looking out for the ‘Menu del Dia’ is definitely one of the best South America travel tips. Eating cheaply is one of the best ways to save money while travelling. In South America, many restaurants offer a “menu del dia”, translating to “menu of the day” or “lunchtime menu”. This will get you a large portion for a value price.
In Peru, it consists of soup, a main course, dessert, and a drink for about $5-10 … (back in the day, it used to be just $1).
21. Choose Your Street Food Wisely
Street food can be one of the real joys of travelling, but when you’re traveling in South America with kids (or without), it pays to choose your vendors with a bit of care.
Look for stalls that are busy with locals, have high turnover, and where you can clearly see food being cooked fresh in front of you.
Avoid anything that’s been sitting out in the sun, and be extra cautious with salads, mayonnaise-based sauces, and ice.
22. Toilet Paper Goes in the Trash, Not in the Toilet
Another essential South America tip is that the plumbing systems are not equipped to handle toilet paper. The pipes are narrower, and flushing paper can lead to blockages. This is why you will often find a small trash bin next to the toilet intended for your used toilet paper.
It is important to respect this practice, even if it feels odd at first. Not only is it crucial for maintaining the plumbing, but it is also a part of the local culture and customs. You’ll find signs in many places telling you NOT to put toilet paper down the toilet.
Don’t forget you have to tell kids a million times. We had toilet blockages in our hotel in Lima (twice) and our Airbnb in Cusco (twice) due to one kid or another forgetting and putting paper in. Toilets in South America are Super temperamental and do not cope at all … be warned!
23. Tip for Travelling in South America: Paying for Public Toilets is Normal
In many South American countries, it’s normal to have to pay a small fee to a bathroom attendant to use public toilets. These fees usually go towards maintenance and cleaning.
The charge is usually minimal, often less than a dollar, but it is a customary practice expected from locals and tourists.
Don’t expect to find toilet paper, even once you’ve paid to use the toilet. You can get some from the bathroom attendant or near the sinks, but there might not be any. It’s a good idea to always carry a small pack of tissues with you. Also, consider carrying hand sanitizer around with you, as there may be no soap.
24. Don’t Drink the Tap Water
Avoid the tap water across South America, or you could end up getting ill. This also applies to brushing your teeth or using ice in your drinks. However, bottled water is available everywhere.
Many hotels and reputable travel companies now carry water dispensers in cars or in foyers. Or – simply ask for more water. That way, we were able to refill our bottles most of the time and avoid buying plastic (most of the time).
25. Showers Can Be Unpredictable
Whether it’s scalding hot or icy cold, the water temperature can fluctuate drastically.
A steady flow of hot water can feel like a luxury, as it’s not always guaranteed. This is because water pressure tends to be low in many areas, which can make showering challenging. Make sure you keep an eye on the temperature when the kids are showering.
26. Be Prepared for Altitude Sickness
This tip only applies if you’re planning to visit high-altitude areas like the Peruvian Andes or Bolivia. Altitude sickness can present as headaches, fatigue, nausea, or a general “wobbly” feeling on arrival.
You can read all about acclimating to altitude with kids in our guide or discover what it’s like to visit Machu Picchu with kids here.
The good news is that it’s usually manageable with rest, gentle pacing, and plenty of water. Avoid planning big hikes or long sightseeing days in the first 24 to 48 hours. Instead, take it slow and let everyone have time to adjust. ESPECIALLY if you’re planning on trekking.
27. Responsible Travel in South America
Traveling in South America is an incredible privilege. With that privilege comes the responsibility to help protect this fantastic continent for generations to come.
Be as eco-friendly as you can and choose responsible tour operators that prioritise sustainability and conservation. Trust me, it makes such a difference! Support local businesses, respect local traditions and customs, and have an incredible experience that benefits the communities you visit.
28. Visit Peru – The Best Country in South America for Families
If you can’t decide which country to visit, or you’re just looking for a solid recommendation, take my advice and choose Peru! It’s an incredible destination to visit with kids! We’ve written a whole range of guides to help you have the best experience possible.
Start by reading our guide to planning a Peru family vacation + the top places to visit, and our guide to visiting Peru with kids. Make sure you also read our 2 week Peru family itinerary to see how your trip could come together. Then, we’ve written a variety of guides to the top areas to visit with kids, including:
Our Refugio Amazonas Review – The Peruvian Amazon
29. Use a Reputable Travel Agency
If you are concerned about safety, then one of the best ways to ensure that you are in good hands the whole time is by using a reputable travel agency. Note, the important word here is ‘reputable’. Does the company have a good reptuation? Are they not super cheap? When you start planning with them, do they have a confident, trustworthy vibe?
There are travel agencies and guides all over South America that you can seek help from – but some will be better than others. Go for a bargain basement price and you will likely get what you pay for – or worse, be scammed.
Reputable travel agencies have their reputatation at stake – and they care about their clients. They are going to do their utmost to make sure you and your family are safe, and have a dream trip.
30. Things are Always Changing, So Make Sure You Check Things Out Yourself
Don’t rely on my advice for knowing what there is to see and do … things open, things close.
I arrived in Lima in 2023 with a loose plan in my mind about what we would be doing based on other trips. Guess what? Three of my main things were either closed on the days we were there, OR permanently closed. So I can strongly recommend always checking opening times yourself, or asking the front desk at your hotel to do it.
For example, I was out in Lima with my god-daughter, chatting about what we might do that afternoon. Because she is an amazingly organized young lady, she picked up her phone and called the museum we were talking about to make sure they were, in fact, open and what the entry fees were.
The Verdict – South America Travel Tips
Hopefully, this South America guide has given you lots of good tips! By planning ahead when you travel in South America, being aware of potential challenges, and staying flexible, you can have a memorable adventure that everyone will remember for years to come.
Take the advice you read with a grain of salt and use it as a starting point for your own research. What worked for our family may not work for yours. South America has incredible diversity, and things vary from country to country. So, make sure you re-read these tips when crossing borders.
The situation in any given location can change rapidly due to various factors like political instability, natural disasters, or even the opening and closing of tourist attractions. Always double-check information and make decisions based on the most current data available. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to change your plans if necessary.
For more tips, stories, and practical advice about travel in South America, be sure to explore our travel blog for further insights and inspiration.
Your trip through South America will be filled with unforgettable moments and lasting memories that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve even left!
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