Heading to Ecuador and looking for the best places to visit? You’re in the right place! From the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands to the varied mainland, Ecuador has something for all travellers!
Unmissable Places to Visit in Ecuador Read More »
Heading to Colombia and wondering what you need in your backpack? This Colombia packing list will help you decide what to take and what to leave at home!
What to Pack for Colombia: A Traveller’s Guide Read More »
What is it like to travel around South America as a black person? Let’s face it, most backpackers come from
Backpacking South America as a Black Traveller Read More »
South America is alive with dance and each country has its own famous style. Whether you’re a samba fan or prefer to get lost watching the tango, we guarantee that you’ll be captivated by these South American dances.
10 Beautiful Dances from South America Read More »
Is Colombia safe to travel? It is a question we get asked a lot, especially by solo travellers. Generally, the answer is yes but Colombia is still a country where you have to remain vigilant. Here are our top tips for staying safe.
Is Colombia Safe to Travel? Read More »
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip or wisdom to get you through life, these mountain quotes have got you covered!
Mountain Quotes For Wild Adventurers Read More »
Known for being one of the most bio-diverse countries on Earth, Ecuador is home to the unique Galapagos archipelago, the
13 Incredible Beaches in Ecuador You Must Visit Read More »
Chris Pountney has achieved what most of us would consider impossible, or at the very least, highly implausible: cycling around
Cycling Around The World – An Interview With Chris Pountney Read More »
When it comes to unique tastes, visitors should not miss sampling a variety of Peruvian fruit. With sweet treats and sour citrus options, you’re bound to find something refreshing!
Delicious Fruits From Peru You Should Try! Read More »
South America is home to 300 national parks, all beautiful and breathtakingly unique. To help you decide which of these you want to visit first, we’ve compiled a list of our favourites
20 Spectacular National Parks in South America Read More »
The Lanshan 2 is changing the way hikers look at lightweight gear. Traditionally, ultralight tents were made in Europe or
Lanshan 2 Tent Review – The Best Budget Lightweight Tent? Read More »
Disclaimer: San Pedro is a powerful hallucinogenic drug with potent long and short term effects. Consumption of the drug should
South America’s Hallucinogenic San Pedro Cactus (Huachuma) Read More »
A remote spot that provides amazing views of the highest mountains in the country on the one side and the Caribbean coast on the other. If you love hiking, the mountains and camping, this is your perfect two-day adventure!
Cerro Kennedy, Colombia: DIY Trekking Guide Read More »
Heading to South America and want to brush up on your Spanish? Watching Spanish movies is a great way to hone your language skills.
24 Best Spanish Movies on Netflix Read More »
Whilst Bolivian food is less known than that of its neighbours, there are still plenty of delicious dishes and snacks that you must try!
Bolivian Food: 22 Must-Try Dishes! Read More »
There’s a powerful and sacred plant that has been used by shamans in the jungles of South America for thousands of years. Due to its perceived spiritual powers, backpackers from all over the world have been traveling to remote communities to experience special ‘ceremonies’ deep in the heart of the jungle.
Ayahuasca: The Shamanic Vine That is Luring Backpackers to Peru Read More »
Baños, Ecuador is the ultimate destination for adventure lovers, with an activity for every budget and adrenaline level. One thing you can’t miss in the area is biking the Ruta de Las Cascadas, or the Waterfall Route. The path follows the road from Baños to the town of Puyo, along the Río Pastaza canyon. The route leads you past 7 waterfalls, culminating in the mighty Pailón del Diablo, or Devil’s Cauldron.
Biking Ruta de las Cascadas in Baños, Ecuador Read More »
The Pisco Sour might be Peru’s national drink but there is far more to the country’s drink scene than that! Here are our pick of the top Peruvian drinks that you can’t live the country without trying!
11 Mouth-Watering Peruvian Drinks Read More »
The stunning blue waters of Cerro Castillo Laguna need to be seen to be believed! Plan your day hike with this guide, including how to get there, costs, hike stats and much more!
A Day Hike to Cerro Castillo Laguna, Chilean Patagonia Read More »
Whilst most travellers head to the floating islands from Puno, there is far more to see. Explore Taquile on foot and stay in a homestay on Amantaní island! This tour offers an authentic look at the culture and the lives of those living off the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Lake Titicaca Tours, Peru: A visit to Uros, Amantaní and Taquile Read More »
Drinking yerba mate is a social and cultural ritual with a long history throughout South America. With so many rules to remember, it is easy to screw up. Read on for everything you need to know about mate!
Yerba Mate: South America’s Most Social Drink Read More »
The Cariocas, as Rio’s residents are called, really know how to enjoy life! Be local with these 21 Things To Do in Rio from partying to beach bumming!
21 Spectacular Things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil! Read More »
A foodies paradise! Peru is celebrated as having one of the most exciting gastronomical scenes in the world. And the best news for backpackers is that it’s cheap, not restricted to fancy restaurants and there is a huge variety of healthy, delicious dishes that could having you trying something new every day of your trip!
Top 23 Peruvian Foods That You NEED to Try! Read More »
There are several well-known ways to travel to Machu Picchu; the Inca Trail which will set you back over $600 USD, or the more ‘backpacker-friendly’ Salcantay Trek or Inca Jungle Adventure Trek (around $225 USD). But what if your budget doesn’t stretch to tailored treks and expensive tourist transportation? How can you visit the world famous UNESCO World Heritage site whilst spending as little as $70 USD including all of your transport and accommodation? Here’s how…
How To Reach Machu Picchu – 8 Options to Suit Every Budget! Read More »
Sanboarding is a must do activity in Huacachina but did you also know you can sand ski there? Our writers went to check out both of these adventure activities. But how did they measure up? Is this backpacker rite of passage worth the hype?
Sandboarding & Sand Skiing in Huacachina, Peru Read More »
South America is full of majestic, dangerous and outright bonkers animals. Here are some of our favourites! How many have you seen?!
20 Amazing South American Animals Read More »
Swimming with sea lions at Palomino Island in Peru is a great activity for backpackers. It is cheaper than a trip to the Galapagos and promises unforgettable memories. Here is everything you need to know about this unforgettable activity close to Lima!
Swimming with Sea Lions at Palomino Island, Peru Read More »
Soda the flavor of bubble gum. Tea made out of the highly controversial coca plant. Strong local spirits flavored with Anise. Find yourself thirsty in South America and you’ve clearly got no need to fret! We give you a list of the TOP 21 DRINKS to guzzle down!
Top South American Drinks to Try on Your Trip! Read More »
Ceviche or cebiche is Peru’s most iconic dish. The origin of ceviche is hard to pinpont and regional variations appear all over Latin America. You’ve tried the dish, now learn the history behind it!
The Origin of Ceviche – Peru’s National Dish Read More »
‘It feels good to be lost in the right direction.’ Ain’t that the truth?! For more inspirational road trip quotes to ignite your wanderlust, check out this post!
80 Best Road Trip Quotes: Fuel Your Next Adventure! Read More »
These incredible books about South America are sure to get your feet itching! Which one will be your favourite?
21 Must-Read Books About South America Read More »
Laguna 69 is one of Peru’s most beautiful natural wonders. This magical lagoon is located at 4,600 m.a.s.l and is one of the main reasons that travellers visit Huaraz. Trek up to the lagoon for breathtaking views and decide whether to visit independently or on a day tour with the help of this article.
Trekking Laguna 69 in Huaraz, Peru Read More »
Empanadas! Ceviche! Sopapillas! We all know that eating is one of the best parts of travel. Better yet when the food is delicious and cheap! We present our top 21 South American street food treats to sink your teeth into! Que delicioso!
The Best Street Food to Try in South America Read More »
Cotopaxi Volcano is Ecuador’s second largest volcano and the most popular for trekking. Climbing Cotopaxi has become somewhat of a bucket list activity for backpackers and day trips can be easily arranged from Quito. If you are taking on the almighty Cotopaxi, check out this post to help plan your hike!
Cotopaxi, Ecuador – Hiking & Biking Ecuador’s Famous Volcano! Read More »
Good coffee is not always easy to find on the road. And backpackers not wanting to part with a cup of their favourite joe will need a travel coffee maker. Which choice is the best for you? We help you to decide!
The Best Portable Travel Coffee Makers For Backpackers Read More »
Curious about hiking the Inca Trail, regarded as one of the world’s most iconic journeys? Tine Haslam Nielsen heads off, ready to tackle a three day trek through the Andes Mountains of Peru. With blistered feet she climbs, upwards and onwards, working towards the rewarding vistas of Machu Picchu which await at the finish line. Along the way history dances, nature stuns, and a healthy dose of self pride emerges…
Hiking the Inca Trail, Peru: A Comprehensive Guide Read More »
This one month Bolivia itinerary is a great starting point for travellers looking to see the main sites in the country. Detailing the best places to stay, things to do and the suggested duration in each place, you need this itinerary if you are heading to Bolivia!
Bolivia Itinerary: Backpacking the Highlights! Read More »
Cabañas Las Lilas offers a beautiful getaway from the hustle of Cochabamba in Bolivia. What did we make of the place? Check out our review!
Cabaña Las Lilas: A Beautiful Cochabamba Getaway! Read More »
Night buses are a great way to get around South America. However, the journeys can be long and uncomfortable. Check out these tips for making your South America bus journeys as stress-free and pleasant as possible. And remember, never go for a number 2 on the bus!
South America Bus Travel: 9 Tips to Survive The Trip! Read More »
South America produces some of the world’s best coffee and is a must-visit continent for all caffeine lovers! Learn about coffee production in South America and experience the best of the continent’s coffee without spending loads of money at overpriced gringo cafes.
Coffee in South America – From Beans to Cup! Read More »
Overwhelmed by all of the accommodation choices in La Paz? For a relaxing stay just a stones throw from the city centre, head to Arthy’s Guesthouse.
Arthy’s Guesthouse – A cosy hideaway in La Paz, Bolivia! Read More »
Altitude sickness is something that all travellers to South America need to be aware of. There are arguments over the best way to prepare for altitude exposure, including many opting for altitude sickness medication. Is it the most effective way to deal with the condition though?
Should You Take Altitude Sickness Medication When Travelling In South America? Read More »
Choosing a place to stay in Guayaquil, Ecuador can be difficult. Not only do you want somewhere with a sense of community but you also need your accommodation of choice to be located in safe area. Sheree and Tim went to check out Casa Michael’s. These were their thoughts!
Casa Michael, Guayaquil: A home away from home in Ecuador’s most chaotic city Read More »
Is South America safe? We think so, however, travel here does require a bit of common sense and savviness. These South America safety tips will tell you everything that you need to know.
Safety Tips for Travelling in South America Read More »
Bolivia is not generally known for its gastronomy but that is something that is sure to change. During our time in Sucre, we headed out to cooking school La Boca del Sapo to create the famous Mondongo Chuquisaqueno dish.
A Taste of Bolivia with La Boca del Sapo Cooking Class Read More »
Backpackers heading to the party town of Máncora can be overwhelmed when it comes to accommodation choices. If you’re partial to a tipple but still want to get out on the waves first thing (not to mention save your pennies), head to Geko Hostal. Check out our review, here.
A Rustic Escape from the Party – Geko Hostal in Máncora, Peru Read More »
Every country in South America has a different rule of entry and some countries will require you to apply for a visa before you travel. Visa requirements alter regularly which can make planning for your backpacking trip hard work! To help you out, we’ve done our utmost to find out exactly what you need to know to take the stress out of planning your trip!
Your Definitive Guide to South America Visas: What Do You Need For Your Trip? Read More »
For a central stay in the city of Arequipa, look no further than Le Foyer Hostel. It certainly brings in good reviews from travellers but does it live up to the hype? South America Ambassadors Sheree and Tim went to check it out!
A room with a view at Le Foyer Hostel, Arequipa Read More »
Lomas de Arena is the ultimate backpacker destination. Located just outside of Bolivia’s most commercial city Santa Cruz de la Sierra, this off the beaten track gem offers wildlife spotting opportunities, hiking and sandboarding!
Step Off the Gringo Trail at Lomas de Arena, Santa Cruz de la Sierra Read More »
Travellers looking to escape the chaos and bustle of La Paz can’t miss a stay at eco-camping and glamping resort Colibri Camping.
Colibri Camping – A Little Slice of Heaven Outside La Paz! Read More »
Prepare for your next trip by researching the mandatory and recommended vaccinations for South America travel. You should allow at least a month to get your required jabs in your home country prior to jetting off. This guide will help you to work out which vaccinations you need for your adventure!
Vaccinations for South America: Make Sure You’re Prepared! Read More »
With so many seasons and climates to consider, a backpacking trip around South America can be super difficult to plan for! We know this and we’ve compiled the ultimate packing list to make preparing for your backpacking trip that little bit easier!
South America Packing List – Everything You Need To Take! Read More »
Tena is Ecuador’s hotspot for experienced and beginner kayakers alike! Keen to experience life on the river, South America Ambassadors Sheree and Tim headed to the city and arranged a taster kayak lesson with reputable company Kayak Ecuador. Read about their experience.
Kayaking Ecuador – There’s No Place Better Than Tena! Read More »
The Bolivian city of Potosí is most known for its mining industry and the silver mines of Cerro Rico overlook the city as an ever present reminder of how this city is financed. Travellers can get a closer look at the mines on a guided tour but there are debates about whether this is ethical. Writers Sheree and Tim went to see whether this is a cause that helps or harms the industry.
A Trip into the Potosí Mines, Bolivia – An Ethical Dilemma Read More »
Located in the popular market street of Los Pozos, Santa Cruz, 360 Grados is a great choice for backpackers looking to explore the city. This huge hostel has all the facilities a traveller could need, including a clean, communal kitchen and hammocks on the rooftop! If you’re looking for hotel quality without the price tag then head to 360 Grados!
Review | 360 Grados Hostel, Santa Cruz Read More »
The street art in Cochabamba, Bolivia, is truly a sight to behold. We took a bike tour around the city to learn the stories behind the incredible works that decorate the walls of Bolivia’s food capital.
Discover the Cochabamba Street Art Scene, Bolivia Read More »
Samaipata is a hidden gem just outside Santa Cruz. There are numerous accommodation options around but not all of them that suit a backpacker budget boast cleanliness and comfort. Backpacker Sheree went to see how Casa Lynda measured up.
A Cosy Cottage Stay at Casa Lynda, Samaipata Read More »
The Salt Flats at Salar de Uyuni are world famous. Sheree and Tim spent 3 days of tranquility & incredible landscapes in the area with no crowds. Find out how!
Am I Dreaming? Exploring Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia Read More »
Hostel Pachamama is a popular hostel in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador. Did it live up to expectations? Sheree and Tim went along to check it out…
Hostel Pachamama, Puerto Lopez, Ecuador Read More »
Palccoyo Mountain, near Cusco, is a little-known treasure. We were so pleased we found out about this alternative to Vinicunca. It offers the same spectacular sight as its famous sister, but none of the crowds! Who could ask for more?
Palccoyo Mountain – Peru’s ‘Alternative’ Rainbow Mountain Read More »
We sent our writer, Laura, on one of the most popular tours of Buenos Aires, with Tangol, seeing the city on foot, by bus & by metro. Did it live up to expectations?
Getting To Know Buenos Aires by Foot… by Metro and by Bus too! Read More »
Lima House Hostel is one of the most popular hostels for travellers to Peru’s capital. But does it live up to the hype? Find out here!
Lima House Hostel, Peru – The Backpacker’s Choice in the Capital Read More »
Dubbed “The Most Dangerous Road in the World”, Yungas, or Death Road, Bolivia has become a top attraction for thrill-seekers. But, is it worth the risk?
Death Road Bolivia – Cycling the ‘World’s Most Dangerous Road’ Read More »
Joshua Hostal in Bolivia’s lakeside town of Copacabana is not just a place to lay your head or fill your stomach. It is a sustainable lifestyle with a vision and you’re all invited to see…
Joshua Hostal, Copacabana, Bolivia – The Perfect Spiritual Retreat! Read More »
Bolivia’s high altitude capital, La Paz, can be overwhelming for first timers! The Walking Tour with company, Be A Local, proved to be a great introduction!
La Paz Walking Tour – Exploring Bolivia’s Capital with Be a Local Read More »
Social vibe? Check. Clean rooms? Check. Great staff? Check. Perfect location? Check. Is there anything Magicpacker Hostel can’t offer a backpacker?!
Magicpacker Hostel – The Place for Solo Travellers in Cusco, Peru! Read More »
The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the emblematic features of Argentinian Patagonia. Our writer Laura made sure she saw it in style! Read about her experience on the alternative tour with Patagonia Backpackers!
The Alternative Perito Moreno Glacier Tour! Read More »
A quirky and homely hostel with an incredible community feel. If you’re looking for a great budget place to stay in Arequipa, Peru, try Limbo Jump Hostel!
Limbo Jump Hostel in Arequipa, Peru – An Upcycled Paradise! Read More »
From the moment you step foot in Nasca city, you will be welcomed into Nasca Trails B&B like a member
Nasca Trails B & B – A Warm Welcome in Nasca, Peru! Read More »
Peru may well be the foodie capital of South America. With so much of the continent being known for stodgy carbs and deep fried food, Peru offers a much-needed change for the traveller looking to expand their palate! This country boasts 3000 species of potato and 55 varieties of corn, surely there is no better place to do a cooking class!?
A Taste of Peru with Cusco Culinary Cooking Class! Read More »
If you’ve found yourself wandering the streets of Montañita, you’ve probably come to surf or party or more than likely,
Hidden House, Montañita, Ecuador – Backpacker Heaven from $5 US! Read More »
In Arequipa, we visited Chaqchao Chocolate Factory to take the “Bean to Bar” Chocolate Workshop! A Highly Recommended, Alternative Travel Experience!
Am I in Heaven? Bean to Bar Chocolate Workshop – Arequipa, Peru Read More »
An oasis of paradise located just minutes from the sea in Peru’s beach town, Mancora, Casa Nomade is the perfect escape from the tooting of tuk tuks of town and the overzealous beach vendors. Both quiet and peaceful with beautiful green spaces, this is the ultimate home away from home!
Casa Nomade, Máncora, Peru – The Ideal Chill Spot! Read More »
If I told you that there is an incredible salt lagoon just 3 hours outside of Arequipa that sees hardly any tourists – would you believe me?
Salinas Salt Lagoon, Peru – Arequipa’s Best Kept Secret! Read More »
If you’re looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay with a swimming pool in the heart of Puerto Lopez, Ecuador, look no further than Hotel Ancora!
Hotel Ancora – The Perfect Place to Stay in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador Read More »
Is it your dream to fly over the Nazca Lines in Northern Peru? We recommend a reputable airline company, tell you how much it costs & how to prepare!
Flying over the Nazca Lines in Peru – What to Expect Read More »
Want a great place to stay on a budget in the Galapagos Islands? La K Leta Guesthouse comes complete with the most knowledgeable host on the island!
La K Leta Guesthouse – Luxury on a Budget in the Galapagos Islands Read More »
For travellers looking to recharge their batteries, there is no better retreat than Orchid Hostels in the heart of Lima, Peru!
Orchid Hostels – Yoga, Vegan Food & Relaxation in Lima, Peru Read More »
Near the backpacker haven of Huacachina lies the City of Ica. On a Full Day Tour, travel writer, Sheree, samples Pisco, wanders the Vineyards & goes Sandboarding!
Vineyards and Sand Dunes Tour in Ica, Peru Read More »
It may not be raved about like Machu Picchu but in a few years, Kuélap is sure to be recognised as one of the best archaeological sites that Peru offers.
Kuélap, Peru – The Machu Picchu of the North Read More »
Looking for an amazing place to stay in Huacachina, Peru? At Banana’s Adventure Hostel you’ll find a swimming pool, a social vibe, great food & FREE tours!
Banana’s Adventure Hostel, Huacachina, Peru – An Oasis Within an Oasis! Read More »
Laguna de Conache is the perfect place for a sandboarding adventure! Just half an hour away from the Northern Peruvian city of Trujillo…
Sandboarding at Laguna de Conache, Northern Peru Read More »
Looking for a hostel in Montañita, Ecuador with the perfect balance of relaxation and social atmosphere? The eco-friendly Esperanto Hostel is it!
Esperanto Hostel – An Eco-Friendly Stay in Montañita, Ecuador Read More »
A sustainable approach to tourism in Baños, Ecuador is the organic farm tour and cooking class with Takiri Travel. It’s not all adrenaline activities…
Organic Farm Tour & Cooking Class – Sustainable Tourism in Baños, Ecuador Read More »
Baños is one of Ecuador’s most popular destinations. We checked out one of its most reputable hostels to find out what the fuss was about. How did it fare?
Erupción Art Hotel & Hostel, Baños, Ecuador – Traveller Review Read More »
As someone who is afraid of, well… everything! Would I enjoy my first Canyoning Experience in Ecuador’s adventure capital of Baños?
Canyoning in Baños, Ecuador – Don’t Think. Just Jump! Read More »
Looking for a sociable, colourful and budget friendly hostel in Guayaquil? Hostel Nucapacha is an excellent choice for the backpacker!
Hostel Nucapacha – The Perfect Place to Stay in Guayaquil, Ecuador Read More »
While Peru’s Machu Picchu attracts huge crowds, the Ancient Inca Ruin of Ingapirca in Ecuador is devoid of tourists! Is this historical site worth a visit?
Ingapirca, Ecuador – The Inca Ruins that Tourism Forgot Read More »
Despite my fear of heights I embarked upon a 2-hour zip-lining adventure with Takiri Travel in Baños, Ecuador. Flying over the jungle like superman was an incredible experience!
Zip-Lining in Baños, Ecuador – I Believe I Can Fly! Read More »
With great private rooms for as low as $7 US, Hostal Tena Ñaui is one of the best budget options in Tena, Ecuador. Spectacular views of the city come free!
Review: Hostal Tena Ñaui, Ecuador Read More »
Tena is the best place in Ecuador to go rafting! With amazing scenery & Class IV rapids, we had the time of our lives on the Jondachi-Hollín River!
Rafting the Jondachi-Hollín River – A Must Do Experience in Ecuador! Read More »
Community Hostel is the perfect place in Baños, Ecuador to meet other travellers and get stuck in. With everything from movie trivia nights to beer-pong…
Community Hostel, Baños, Ecuador – A Place You Don’t Want to Leave! Read More »
Offering one of the best toilet panoramic scenes that you will ever see, Jungle Roots prides itself on its breathtaking viewpoints!
Getting Back To Our Roots in Tena, Ecuador @ Jungle Roots Camping! Read More »
Arming yourself with knowledge before you backpack South America is the best way to stay safe! Learn about common travel scams so you don’t get caught out!
12 Common Scams in South America and How to Avoid Them! Read More »
The continent is HUGE! So how do you choose the best South America Backpacking Route? Let us help with The Gringo Trail, Super Loop & Thrill Seekers Trail!
Backpacking in South America Routes – 3 Of The Best! Read More »
This South America climate guide makes trip planning a breeze! We tell you the best time to visit South America, country by country.
The Best Time To Visit South America – Climate Planner Read More »
Altitude sickness in South America should not be taken lightly. Find out the mistake I made in La Paz, Bolivia to ensure the same doesn’t happen to you!
My Scary Lesson with Altitude Sickness in La Paz, Bolivia Read More »
In Peru, it’s estimated that some 65 million guinea pigs are consumed each year. Cultivated by the Incas in the
Eating Guinea Pig in Peru: Would You? Read More »
After qualifying as yoga teachers earlier this year, we discovered a website called Yoga Travel Jobs, that listed volunteer, work exchange and paid job opportunities all over the world! It was really exciting to see all of the positions available in beautiful locations from beach resorts to mountain retreats… It seemed that Yoga Teachers were really in demand!
Change your Life! Jobs for Travelling Yoga Teachers… Read More »
In general the costs of renting a car to explore Bolivia’s Salar Uyuni (the largest salt flats in the world) are higher than booking a trip with a tour agency, but the freedom and adventure you will gain are priceless. Driving through the South of Bolivia will leave you speechless and you’ll encounter some of the most stunning scenery known to humans… Sold? Here’s how to do it!
How to Rent a Car & Explore the Salt Flats of Bolivia Without a Tour Read More »