Backpacking South America

[tim giles]

Dear All

I and two other South African matric pupils are planning a backpacking holiday from early December 2009 till mid January 2010 - approximately 5 weeks. We are wanting to visit Brazil, Argentina and Peru (Machu Pichu) and would like to have a good party, but also experience the culture, wildlife and geographical wonders of the continent. We basically plan to spend as little money as possible while still thoroughly enjoying the experience.

It would be much appreciated if you could propose a very rough itinerary and the costs involved (total cost) as, at the moment, we are unsure of how to approach it.

Regards
Tim Giles

[Mark]

Hi Tim,

There are lots of things to do and see. The following rough itinerary can be considered:

Brazil
Rio de Janeiro: 2-3 days
Parati: 1 day
Iguazu Falls (border with Argentina): 1-2 days

Argentina
Buenos Aires: 2-3 days
Mendoza (Aconcagua): 2-3 days
Salta: 2-3 days

Bolivia
Salar de Uyuni: 3 days
Potosi: 2 days
La Paz: 2-3 days
Rurrenabaque (jungle trip): 3-4 days
Lake Titicaca (Isla del Sol): 2 days

Peru
Lake Titicaca (floating islands): 2 days
Cuzco + Machu Picchu: 1 week
Arequipa (Santa Catalina Monastery) + Colca canyon: 2-3 days
Lima: 2-3 days
Trujillo + Chan Chan: 2-3 days


You can download my free 'Attractions in South America e-Book' to check out some of the other travel highlights of South America.

Enjoy your trip!

Best wishes,

Mark