Backpacking South America

[Tylerc]

I was just curious if anyone has backpacked much of south America? I'm a 23 y/o male and Ive backpacked Europe already and I've been thinking about doing SA. How much is it for cost of living? how are traveling conditions? In Europe i had the luxury of using the rail system but i know its different in SA, anyone know the best ways? How do people treat backpackers. Is there as much of a backpacking society there? I was thinking about starting in Ecuador then going south through Chile, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil before coming home. Any advice on these countries? Thanks for any info.

[Allyssa]

Sorry I can't be much help with SA, but I would love to hear about some of where you went in Europe. Which countries did you visit, what are some of your highlites, best bang for your buck hostels, etc. A friend and I are planning to backpack Europe next summer. Any advice or tips would be very welcome!

Allyssa

[Diana Elisa]

Brazil is pretty nice, but it is quite a culture shock for most Canadians - forget law and order and get ready for some serious fun and freedom.

Brazil is a huge country and therefore has a very big diversity - from the northeast ful of beaches, warm water and easy-life-easy-going to the south, hard working and well-kept city where I live, Curitiba, surrounded with mountains and rainforest. It's worth the trip - but trust me, get yourself a good guide (such as the lonely planet) for general reference and THEN talk to locals - they'll keep you away from the standard tourist points and get you the cream.

[manuperuamazon.com]

[Backpacking in Peru it is easy, but of course hotels can be cheaps but not the same quility as in other countries. There are many people backpacking here in Peru, food can be get to 1 us dolar 1 menu, but this can maybe give some stomac problems to travellers not use to.

If you want to know about trips to the jungle just mail me.

[jennychic]

Just have medications ready and liberating freedom set. You'd experience quite a culture shock. But it's really fun (so says my brother)