Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
berlinasdelfonce.com
rapidoochoa.com
bolivariano.com.co
expresopalmira.com.co
coomotor.com.co
In Peru,
colectivo
buses (those that pick up people as they go) are the cheapest option, following the rule
of $1 USD per hour of travel. For some routes in Peru, such as from Lima to Mancora or Cusco, there are
more expensive buses run by private companies that have first- and second-class service. Light meals and
snacks are provided, and there may be private security guards on board due to bandits. These buses cost
upward of $30 USD.
One thing to remember is that in many of these countries, you will be traveling long distances and
through winding mountains, so bus journeys are very long. Some bus rides can be eighteen hours or more.
The roads in South America are not well kept, the distances are long, and the terrain is difficult, so it is often
better to get a plane ride if you are short on time.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is
not
recommended anywhere in South America. I don't do it and I know few people who do.
It's simply not safe, due to kidnappings, robberies, and theft. It's especially unsafe if you are a single fe-
male. Additionally, drunk driving is a big problem in many parts of South America. It's just too dangerous
to hitchhike, in my opinion, and you do so at your own risk.
Flying
Flying around this region is expensive when compared to the cost of living, but given the vast distances
here, it can often be a good option for travelers with limited time. After all, bus rides can be eighteen-plus
hours here. Sometimes it is worth it to spend the extra money on a flight to avoid traveling for two days.
The major airlines in South America are:
TACA:
taca.com (now partnered with Avianca, avianca.com)
LAN:
lan.com
TAM:
tam.com.br
GOL:
voegol.com
Copa:
copaair.com
Aerolíneas Argentinas:
aerolineas.com.ar/home.asp
Aerogal:
aerogal.com.ec/?lang=en
In Colombia, there are often flight sales that make flying cheaper than buses, and the long-distance
routes in Argentina (think Buenos Aires to the tip in Patagonia) are also a good deal because flights can save
