Question 1

How much does it cost to fly from Vancouver to Latin America?

Accepted Answer

Flights from Vancouver to Lima typically range from $400-800 for round-trip depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Budget airlines and connecting flights are usually cheaper. We recommend booking 6-8 weeks ahead for the best prices.

Question 2

How much does a 35-day backpacking trip through Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and 3 more cities cost?

Accepted Answer

For this 6-city itinerary covering Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, expect to spend around $‍30 per day on ground costs (hostels, local transport, food, and activities). Flight costs vary by your departure city, typically ranging from $800-1,800 for round-trip international flights.

Question 3

What's the best time to visit Lima and Uyuni?

Accepted Answer

The dry season, April through October, is non-negotiable for this route. The Andes don't mess around with rain: Cusco gets 215mm in January, making trekking muddy and Machu Picchu trails slippery. Uyuni's salt flats flood December through March (beautiful mirror effect, but harder to traverse). June through August is peak dry season with cold nights (La Paz drops to 0°C after dark) but clear skies. May and September-October hit the sweet spot: dry, fewer crowds than the June-August peak, and warmer overnight temps. Lima stays mild year-round (22-26°C) but gets a grey coastal fog called garúa from June to September.

Question 4

Do I need a visa for this route?

Accepted Answer

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Most travelers from the US, Canada, UK, and Australia can visit Latin America visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check current requirements before booking, as rules can change.

Question 5

How do I get between cities on this route?

Accepted Answer

The most budget-friendly options are buses and trains. In Latin America, budget airlines also offer cheap fares if booked in advance. For flexibility, consider a rail pass if traveling through the region. Inter-city transport typically costs $15-40 per journey.

Question 6

Are hostels safe for solo travelers?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Hostels are generally very safe and are the go-to accommodation for solo travelers. Look for hostels with good ratings (8.0+), lockers for valuables, and active common areas to meet other travelers. Female-only dorms are available at many hostels for added comfort.

Question 7

How much spending money do I need per day?

Accepted Answer

Budget travelers typically spend $‍30 per day including accommodation, food, and activities. This assumes staying in hostel dorms ($15-25/night), eating street food and cooking sometimes, and doing mostly free activities. Add extra for entrance fees, tours, and nightlife.

Question 8

What's the best airport to fly into from Vancouver?

Accepted Answer

For this route, you'll fly into Lima and return from Uyuni. Open-jaw tickets (flying into one city and out of another) are often cheaper than round-trips and save you a return journey. Compare prices on flight aggregators for the best deals.

35 Days in Latin America from Vancouver

City-by-City Guide

Highlights

Free Things to Do

Budget Tips

Best Time to Visit

Ready to explore Latin America from Vancouver?