We Put The Know in Knowmad

The answer to this question varies from country to country and even region to region, but as a general rule of thumb the seasons in South America are reversed from those north of the equator. During the U.S. and Europe’s winter, it’s summer in Patagonia and generally the best time to visit the central (including Buenos Aires, Santiago, wine country, and the coast) and southern parts of the continent in Chile & Argentina. Visiting the altiplano and northern desert regions of Chile or Argentina is fine year round, as well as Iguazu falls.

North America and Europe’s summer is a great time to visit Peru and Ecuador, as it is the drier time of year there. Spring and fall are also great as precipitation levels will still be low and there will be less visitors. The rainy season is less pronounced in Ecuador and it is suitable year round, as is the Galapagos.

For more in-depth country specific information on weather and when to go, visit our FAQs sections on Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.

Generally it is best to arrive with at least $100 crisp American dollars per person. If you would like to order local currency from your bank ahead of time, that is helpful but you will pay a fee. In most South American countries there are abundant ATMs that will accept Visa or Cirrus affiliated cards, and will distribute local currency at the best exchange rate. If you contact your bank ahead of time they may refund or waive the international ATM fee, generally around $5 USD. Bring two cash cards if you can. Credit cards are often accepted at nice restaurants and shops. Cabs and markets may accept U.S. dollars, but we recommend only having greenbacks as backup funds.

Each country within South America is different. Many use 220-volt electricity, which is different from the U.S. This means a converter is necessary. Some also use different plug types which adapters are needed for. It is best to consult the country specific FAQs page for the countries in which you are traveling.

Generally it is suggested you do not drink the tap water in South America. In Chile, locals do drink the tap water, which is generally safe, however has a higher mineral content than you may be used to causing upset stomachs. On the other hand in Peru for example, most locals do not drink the water and without question you should not either.

Beyond open eyes, mind, and your sense of adventure it’s entirely up to you, but for advice and guidelines based on weather, local customs, and activity specifics, please visit the country specific FAQs page where you are traveling.

Check with your cell phone provider. Each company is different and they can give you the most up-to-date information, although generally charges will be high. Many smart phones or tablets can be put on airplane mode to avoid roaming charges, and can then use hotel wi-fi signals to access internet and email.

Most hotels have computers and wi-fi internet available. In addition to email, these can also be used for inexpensive internet phone service programs such as Skype if you need to be in contact by phone.

This depends greatly on the person and what your trip was built to include in advance. Generally meals and daily expenditures in most South American countries are a bit less than in the U.S. and Europe, however that does not apply to international class restaurants or luxury hotels. For more information about budgeting for your trip outside of pre-booked arrangements, please consult with your Knowmad Trip Specialist.

The recommendation for private guides is between $10-20 USD per full day of guiding per person and $3-5 USD for private drivers per full day per person. This is simply a guideline and it is Knowmad’s hope that you use it only as a framework and tip appropriate to the level of service you feel you received. Tipping in South America is seen as a bonus: 10% in restaurants reflects very good service; spare change or small sums are customary for cab drivers and porters. For included meals Knowmad will have paid a service charge in advance.