General West Coast Trip

[Johnny]

Hi all,

I am currently in the process of planning a trip down to the west coast of SA starting in Ecuador. I really have no plans (other than a rough idea of which countries I want to visit) and am hoping to be able to wing it. I want to go from Ecuador to Peru, and end up my trip in Chile (3-4 months away). I want to know the necessary planning that is involved before I go on my trip (proper visas, documentation, shots, medication, medical and travel insurance...) In addition, I am contemplating buying a car and would appreciate any advice in doing so. Finally, any comments on safety precautions and what to look out for in regards to theft/crime would be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much.

[Mark]

Getting the most out of your trip:

Visa
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days for tourism and business. Passports are required to travel.

Health
Vaccinations
You may want to arrange vaccinations or drugs to protect against diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid, malaria and yellow fever. As you will need to have some vaccinations weeks or months before travel, it is best to see your doctor six to eight weeks before you go.

Eat and drink wisely
The most common travel related illnesses are gastrointestinal diseases usually picked up from poorly prepared foods or untreated water. To avoid the diarrhea, stomach pains, nausea and vomiting associated with these illnesses:

• Use boiled or bottled water, or water purifiers or tablets.
• Avoid ice in drinks.
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and dairy products.
• Avoid fruit and vegetables that have been washed in local water.
• Eat thick-skinned fruit and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges and mandarins.
• Make sure food is cooked thoroughly and eat it while it’s hot

Avoid insect bites
Some serious infectious diseases such as malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever, are transmitted by insect bites. While there are vaccines and drugs available to help protect against some of these diseases, travelers are advised to always protect against mosquito bites. Some tips include:

• Wear mosquito repellent that contains at least 30 per cent DEET.
• Apply repellent, such as permethrin, to your clothes and bedding.
• Wear socks, long pants, and long-sleeve shirts when outdoors.
• Use a bed net.

Travel Insurance
World Nomads offer some of the best travel insurance packages for backpackers. You can read more and apply for a quote on our travel insurance page.

Travel Safety
The one and only sound advice I can give you is to use your common sense while traveling in South America. Do not wander off in unlit streets after dark. Take a taxi to your destination after dark. Don't wear watches and/or necklaces in plain view.

Buying a Car
I found some great tips about buying a car in South America on some other forums. Google "buying car south america" to get started.

Enjoy your trip! Keep us posted!

Best wishes,

Mark

[OverlandTravel]

Well I think Mark covered most of the points there...I have a question though.

Why buy a car? Wouldn't it be cheaper to go on a tour? I'm sure there are some that you can customise to what you want to do?

Then again you have more freedom with your own transport...renting a car? May turn out very expensive...but maybe you could mix renting a car with bus or train travel?