Faire l'achat de tours au Vénézuela par internet ou sur place?
by Patluc55
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour
J'envisage d'aller au Venezuela en août 2011 , j'aimerai , faire la Gran Sabana et Angels fallset peut etre Rio Caura
mais je constate que les prix affichés par les agences en euros pour la plupart sont bien supérieurs à ceux annoncés dans le forum.
Est ce qu'il faut acheter ces tours organisés de métropole et les surpayer ou faut t il attendre
pour le faire d'être sur place, avec le risque en aout de ne pas trouver de place le lendemain
de mon arrivée à Ciudad Bolivar?
Merci par avance pour vos conseils
Patluc😏
Salut,
à CB, fais le tour des agences en ville (à l'aéroport c'est plus cher) et compare les prix. Tout se discute. Perso j'avais trouvé sans problème pour départ le lendemain. Dans le pire des cas, tu pars le surlendemain et tu profites de la journée entre deux pour visiter la ville. Moi j'avais réservé chez Total Aventura, une agence située sur une perpendiculaire au début du Paseo Colonial. Il y a la possibilité de voler sur Canaima et d'enchaîner directement sur Santa Elena (pour aller à la Gran Sabana) en avion, plutôt que de revenir sur CB comme le prévoient habituellement les tours. Ensuite tu prends un bus de nuit pour remonter de Santa Elena à CB. Pour arriver à des prix acceptables, il faut que tu changes tes Euros au marché noir, ainsi le prix de ton voyage sera diminué de moitié à peu près. Les prix que tu vois sur internet sont les prix au taux de change officiel. Toutefois, ne t'attends pas à aller à Canaima pour bon marché, ça, c'est pas possible. Mais tu verras, ton investissement vaudra la peine, tu ne vas pas regretter ! 😉
à CB, fais le tour des agences en ville (à l'aéroport c'est plus cher) et compare les prix. Tout se discute. Perso j'avais trouvé sans problème pour départ le lendemain. Dans le pire des cas, tu pars le surlendemain et tu profites de la journée entre deux pour visiter la ville. Moi j'avais réservé chez Total Aventura, une agence située sur une perpendiculaire au début du Paseo Colonial. Il y a la possibilité de voler sur Canaima et d'enchaîner directement sur Santa Elena (pour aller à la Gran Sabana) en avion, plutôt que de revenir sur CB comme le prévoient habituellement les tours. Ensuite tu prends un bus de nuit pour remonter de Santa Elena à CB. Pour arriver à des prix acceptables, il faut que tu changes tes Euros au marché noir, ainsi le prix de ton voyage sera diminué de moitié à peu près. Les prix que tu vois sur internet sont les prix au taux de change officiel. Toutefois, ne t'attends pas à aller à Canaima pour bon marché, ça, c'est pas possible. Mais tu verras, ton investissement vaudra la peine, tu ne vas pas regretter ! 😉
Faby
Merci Faby pour l'information, je me doutais de la réponse , en fait il y a un circuit proposé par Gekko tours, qui m'interesse , car il permet
en 6 jours de faire le Salto Angel,3 jours et Gran Sabana(Santa Elena et les principales chutes...) ,3 jours, retour le 6e jour par bus de nuit sur CB, le problème c'est qu'il n'est pas donné , plus de 600euros🤪.Sais tu si ce circuit est habituellement proposé dans les agences, quant au Rio Caura
les circuits proposés par les agences me semblent tous identiques.
Bonne journée
Patluc55😉
patluc
en fait il y a un circuit proposé par Gekko tours, qui m'interesse , car il permet en 6 jours de faire le Salto Angel,3 jours et Gran Sabana(Santa Elena et les principales chutes...) ,3 jours, retour le 6e jour par bus de nuit sur CB, le problème c'est qu'il n'est pas donné , plus de 600euros🤪.
C'est presque le circuit que j'ai fait et je l'ai acheté sur place pour un départ le lendemain. L'agence m'avait proposé une 3ème nuit gratuite à Canaima (càd départ le 4ème jour), avec uniquement le souper à payer. Au final on est revenu tard le 3ème jour et on nous a pas facturé le souper. Nous avons donc volé sur Santa Elena le 4ème jour. Et d'avoir 2.5 jours sur place, j'ai trouvé super. ça te laisse vraiment le temps de t'imprégner de cette atmosphère si particulière.
Par contre, on avait le choix pour la Gran Sabana de faire 2 ou 3 jours. Nous avons choisi la formule 3 jours mais si c'était à refaire je ferais 2. Renseigne toi pour voir où tu vas le 3ème jour. Si c'est tout au sud de la Gran Sabana, à l'extérieur du territoire à proprement parlé, ça ne vaut pas la peine.
Quant au prix, 600 euros correspondent probablement à qqch comme 2200 BSF au change officiel (je ne connais pas le cours exact actuel). Mais dans mon exemple, si le cours officiel est à 3.75, au black tu vas pouvoir changer tes euros à env. 7. Donc au final tes 2200 BSF te coûtent 315 USD.
Je répète, ce n'est qu'un exemple, je ne connais pas le cours actuel de l'euro !
Mais ça montre juste l'importance de pouvoir changer au marché noir.
C'est presque le circuit que j'ai fait et je l'ai acheté sur place pour un départ le lendemain. L'agence m'avait proposé une 3ème nuit gratuite à Canaima (càd départ le 4ème jour), avec uniquement le souper à payer. Au final on est revenu tard le 3ème jour et on nous a pas facturé le souper. Nous avons donc volé sur Santa Elena le 4ème jour. Et d'avoir 2.5 jours sur place, j'ai trouvé super. ça te laisse vraiment le temps de t'imprégner de cette atmosphère si particulière.
Par contre, on avait le choix pour la Gran Sabana de faire 2 ou 3 jours. Nous avons choisi la formule 3 jours mais si c'était à refaire je ferais 2. Renseigne toi pour voir où tu vas le 3ème jour. Si c'est tout au sud de la Gran Sabana, à l'extérieur du territoire à proprement parlé, ça ne vaut pas la peine.
Quant au prix, 600 euros correspondent probablement à qqch comme 2200 BSF au change officiel (je ne connais pas le cours exact actuel). Mais dans mon exemple, si le cours officiel est à 3.75, au black tu vas pouvoir changer tes euros à env. 7. Donc au final tes 2200 BSF te coûtent 315 USD.
Je répète, ce n'est qu'un exemple, je ne connais pas le cours actuel de l'euro !
Mais ça montre juste l'importance de pouvoir changer au marché noir.
Faby
Merci Faby
J'abuse! A CB ou est ce qu'on peut changer facilement au noir, des euros?
je vais arriver de Caracas et je ne changerai que le minimum à Maiqueta.
Merci encore
Patluc55
patluc
A l'aéroport, si tu te montres sûr de toi tu peux aussi facilement obtenir un bon taux au noir. Il y a de toute façon qqn qui va t'approcher pour te proposer du change avant que tu n'aies réussi à mettre un pied dehors.
A CB, on nous a arrêtés sur le Paseo Colonial pour nous proposer du change. Le gars racolait pour une bijouterie située sur une petite rue parallèle. On l'a suivi et on a d'abord essayé avec 50 USD, en prétextant que c'était tout ce qu'on avait sur nous à ce moment là. Comme on a vu que tout s'est bien passé, que la dame de la bijouterie n'essayait pas de nous rouler (elle a clairement fait le compte des billets sur son comptoir), on est revenu le lendemain avec une plus grande somme.
T'as rarement besoin de chercher pour faire du change, en général on vient te solliciter. Cette remarque est valable dans tout le pays.
Sinon, tu peux essayer les petits commerces et les posadas. Mais pose toujours la question de façon discrète, car même si tout le monde opère de cette façon, ça n'en reste pas moins officiellement illégal.
🙂
A CB, on nous a arrêtés sur le Paseo Colonial pour nous proposer du change. Le gars racolait pour une bijouterie située sur une petite rue parallèle. On l'a suivi et on a d'abord essayé avec 50 USD, en prétextant que c'était tout ce qu'on avait sur nous à ce moment là. Comme on a vu que tout s'est bien passé, que la dame de la bijouterie n'essayait pas de nous rouler (elle a clairement fait le compte des billets sur son comptoir), on est revenu le lendemain avec une plus grande somme.
T'as rarement besoin de chercher pour faire du change, en général on vient te solliciter. Cette remarque est valable dans tout le pays.
Sinon, tu peux essayer les petits commerces et les posadas. Mais pose toujours la question de façon discrète, car même si tout le monde opère de cette façon, ça n'en reste pas moins officiellement illégal.
🙂
Faby
Bonjour,
j'étais cet été au venezuela, pas de soucis pour trouver des tours sur place et de plus si tu en prends plusieurs ils te font parfois un prix ou t'offre la nuit d'hotel.
Je suis allée au rio caura cet été, super sympa mais à priori un peu dangereux ( la veille le groupe s'est fait attaquer par des orpailleurs et piquer le moteur du bateau..), donc des départs moins souvent
La posada don carlos organise le tour rio caura 5 jours/4 nuits 1800, canaima 2000
toujours ou presque changer au marché noir bien sur..
La posada don carlos organise le tour rio caura 5 jours/4 nuits 1800, canaima 2000
toujours ou presque changer au marché noir bien sur..
Bonjour!
Les prestations de la posada don carlos sont elles de qualité équivalente aux autres gekko et bernal tours? combien étiez vous dans le groupe? cela m'interesserait bien mais j'en ai très peu entendu parler sur les forums...
merci d'avance!
Les prestations de la posada don carlos sont elles de qualité équivalente aux autres gekko et bernal tours? combien étiez vous dans le groupe? cela m'interesserait bien mais j'en ai très peu entendu parler sur les forums...
merci d'avance!
Bonjour,
pas de soucis la prestation est trés bien, nous on était 12 mais car on avait récuperé ceux qui c'était fait attaquer la veille... mais ce fut trés convivial
les nuits se font en hamac dans des villages puis sur une belle plage à l'arrivée.
c'est tranquille et sympa
De toute façon je pense que le mieux c'est une fois sur place de voir qui a un groupe qui part, car c'est moins demandé que l'orenoque...
De toute façon je pense que le mieux c'est une fois sur place de voir qui a un groupe qui part, car c'est moins demandé que l'orenoque...
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So, since I’ve already traveled around Ecuador and Peru, I’m now looking at Argentina, especially for its mountains (like the ones in Réunion that tempted me, even though—frustratingly—I could only admire them from below).
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Best regards,
I was planning to go to Réunion and stay in half-board accommodation with non-professionals, but it seems that’s not really the custom there—or maybe my budget isn’t big enough.
So, since I’ve already traveled around Ecuador and Peru, I’m now looking at Argentina, especially for its mountains (like the ones in Réunion that tempted me, even though—frustratingly—I could only admire them from below).
I plan to get around by bus and don’t know in advance where I’ll sleep, so I won’t book ahead. If I like a place, I might stay for several days.
I know that in Chile, it’s easy to find half-board accommodation, but what about in Argentina?
I’d like to stay with locals in half-board without it being a professional setup. I’m not sure if this is common practice there. It’s up to me to find someone willing to host me. What do you think? What would be a fair price (keeping in mind that 40 to 50 € is the max I can spend on accommodation, breakfast, and dinner)?
Looking forward to your feedback.
Best regards,
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We won’t have a car, and I’m struggling to find information about transportation options for a few parts of the itinerary we’d like to do:
1) From Perito Moreno (the town, near Los Antiguos), we’d like to travel down Ruta 40 to visit Perito Moreno National Park and then cross into Chile via the Paso Roballos (at the latitude of Bajo Caracoles) to reach the road to Cochrane. Without a car, it seems we’ll need to use private agencies to get to the national park—do you have any recommendations or suggestions? Also, does anyone know if it’s possible to cross into Chile via Paso Roballos (from Bajo Caracoles) without a rental car? That is, without having to go all the way down to El Chaltén or back up toward Perito Moreno/Los Antiguos, etc.?
2) The second stretch that seems a bit tricky (though still easier, in theory) is from Caleta Tortel to Villa O’Higgins on the Chilean side. Do we have to go back through Cochrane, or are there ways to get directly from Tortel to Villa O’Higgins?
3) Finally, we’d like to hike into Argentina (El Chaltén) from O’Higgins. Any recommendations for this? Do we need to go through an agency? What’s the estimated duration of the trek?
As you’ve probably gathered, we want to visit some off-the-beaten-path spots but don’t have a car, so we’re looking for the best possible compromises.
Thanks so much in advance for all your suggestions! Thomas
1) From Perito Moreno (the town, near Los Antiguos), we’d like to travel down Ruta 40 to visit Perito Moreno National Park and then cross into Chile via the Paso Roballos (at the latitude of Bajo Caracoles) to reach the road to Cochrane. Without a car, it seems we’ll need to use private agencies to get to the national park—do you have any recommendations or suggestions? Also, does anyone know if it’s possible to cross into Chile via Paso Roballos (from Bajo Caracoles) without a rental car? That is, without having to go all the way down to El Chaltén or back up toward Perito Moreno/Los Antiguos, etc.?
2) The second stretch that seems a bit tricky (though still easier, in theory) is from Caleta Tortel to Villa O’Higgins on the Chilean side. Do we have to go back through Cochrane, or are there ways to get directly from Tortel to Villa O’Higgins?
3) Finally, we’d like to hike into Argentina (El Chaltén) from O’Higgins. Any recommendations for this? Do we need to go through an agency? What’s the estimated duration of the trek?
As you’ve probably gathered, we want to visit some off-the-beaten-path spots but don’t have a car, so we’re looking for the best possible compromises.
Thanks so much in advance for all your suggestions! Thomas
Hi,
we’re planning a round trip from San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, to Salta, Argentina, in two months. On the way there, we’ll take the northern route via Susques, Route 27, then 52. But for the return, we were thinking of taking the southern route via San Antonio de los Cobres, Route 51, then 23. Is it similar to the northern route in terms of road surface? How busy is it, and are there gas stations? Basically, should we be worried about doing it in an SUV that’s supposedly 4x4 but has regular road tires and no second spare wheel, obviously...
I’ve seen that we can stop over in San Antonio de los Cobres.
Thanks for your feedback.
Raf.
Hi,
we’ll be in Calama at the end of March 2026, and I’m looking for a reliable car rental there for a 7-day road trip to Salta, Argentina. But I’m struggling with the car rental agencies in Calama because the reviews can be scary. I saw Gyg, which has great ratings, but I’m a bit wary (5/5 from 59 reviews—either the guy’s amazing or it’s fake...), but I can’t find any recent reviews on VF in general.
For Punta Arenas, I booked with Dachelet and didn’t have any issues with email exchanges.
Thanks in advance.
Raf.
Hi everyone!
I’m planning the trip of my dreams for next November—Chile! I’d love to get your thoughts on my potential itinerary. I know it’s a big investment in terms of both time and money, so every bit of feedback, suggestion, or info helps immensely. Thank you in advance!!
1-Flight to Santiago
2-Explore Santiago
3-Explore Santiago
4-Bus from STG to Valpo (2h) + visit Valparaíso + night in Viña
5-Visit Valparaíso + bus back to STG (2h)
6-Flight to Calama + bus to San Pedro + explore and acclimate in San Pedro + car rental in the afternoon (+Chaxa?)
7-(Very early) Valle del Arcoíris + Laguna Cejar + Valle de la Luna
8-Laguna Miñiques & Miscanti + Salar de Talar + Laguna Tuyajto
9-Geysers El Tatio early in the morning + Cañón de Guatín + return car
10-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
11-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
12-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
13-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni + return to San Pedro for the night
14-Bus to Calama + flight Calama-La Serena + explore La Serena
15-Excursion to Reserva Pingüino + bonus time (sunset at Playa Tongoy or elsewhere...)
16-Rent a car in Pisco Elqui & Vicuña + Observatory
17-Return car in La Serena + flight Santiago & Puerto Montt (4h)
18-Rent a 4x2 car + drive to Temuco (4h)
19-Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello + hike + night in Temuco
20-Parque Nacional Conguillío then drive and night in Pucón
21-Villarrica Volcano
22-Parque Huerquehue
23-Activities on-site
24-Drive to Valdivia + explore and night there
25-Drive to Puerto Varas (via Frutillar, etc.) + activities on-site
26-Salto Las Cascadas + Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales (Salto del Petrohué) + Canoeing/Rafting?
27-Drive to Parque Alerce Andino (round trip 3h) + hike Sendero Sargazo?
28-Drive to Castro + explore Chiloé and night in Castro
29-Explore Chiloé
30-Explore Chiloé + return to Puerto Varas
31-Drive to Cochamó (1h30) + drive to Hornopirén (2h30)
32-Ferry to Caleta Gonzalo + drive to Chaitén (1h20)
33-Parque Nacional Pumalín, night in Chaitén
34-Drive to Puyuhuapi + Sendero Ventisquero Yelcho?
35-Ventisquero Colgante + drive to Coyhaique
36-Drive to Villa Cerro Castillo
37-Hike Cerro Castillo
38-Drive to Puerto Río Tranquilo
39-Excursion to Glaciar Exploradores
40-Mármol Cathedral + lake activities
41-Drive to Cochrane
42-Parque Patagonia
43-Drive to Chile Chico
44-Ferry Chile Chico-Ibañez + drive to Coyhaique + drop off car
45-Flight to Punta Arenas (1h30) + explore the city
46-Rent a car + drive to Puerto Natales
47-Drive to Torres del Paine in the morning + hike to the base of the towers (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
48-Torres del Paine hike 2 (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
49-Torres del Paine hike 3 (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
50-Drive to Punta Arenas
51-Flight Punta Arenas-Santiago + flight Santiago-Buenos Aires (2h)
52-Explore Buenos Aires
53-Explore Buenos Aires
54-Explore Buenos Aires
55-Flight back to France
I’m planning the trip of my dreams for next November—Chile! I’d love to get your thoughts on my potential itinerary. I know it’s a big investment in terms of both time and money, so every bit of feedback, suggestion, or info helps immensely. Thank you in advance!!
1-Flight to Santiago
2-Explore Santiago
3-Explore Santiago
4-Bus from STG to Valpo (2h) + visit Valparaíso + night in Viña
5-Visit Valparaíso + bus back to STG (2h)
6-Flight to Calama + bus to San Pedro + explore and acclimate in San Pedro + car rental in the afternoon (+Chaxa?)
7-(Very early) Valle del Arcoíris + Laguna Cejar + Valle de la Luna
8-Laguna Miñiques & Miscanti + Salar de Talar + Laguna Tuyajto
9-Geysers El Tatio early in the morning + Cañón de Guatín + return car
10-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
11-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
12-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
13-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni + return to San Pedro for the night
14-Bus to Calama + flight Calama-La Serena + explore La Serena
15-Excursion to Reserva Pingüino + bonus time (sunset at Playa Tongoy or elsewhere...)
16-Rent a car in Pisco Elqui & Vicuña + Observatory
17-Return car in La Serena + flight Santiago & Puerto Montt (4h)
18-Rent a 4x2 car + drive to Temuco (4h)
19-Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello + hike + night in Temuco
20-Parque Nacional Conguillío then drive and night in Pucón
21-Villarrica Volcano
22-Parque Huerquehue
23-Activities on-site
24-Drive to Valdivia + explore and night there
25-Drive to Puerto Varas (via Frutillar, etc.) + activities on-site
26-Salto Las Cascadas + Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales (Salto del Petrohué) + Canoeing/Rafting?
27-Drive to Parque Alerce Andino (round trip 3h) + hike Sendero Sargazo?
28-Drive to Castro + explore Chiloé and night in Castro
29-Explore Chiloé
30-Explore Chiloé + return to Puerto Varas
31-Drive to Cochamó (1h30) + drive to Hornopirén (2h30)
32-Ferry to Caleta Gonzalo + drive to Chaitén (1h20)
33-Parque Nacional Pumalín, night in Chaitén
34-Drive to Puyuhuapi + Sendero Ventisquero Yelcho?
35-Ventisquero Colgante + drive to Coyhaique
36-Drive to Villa Cerro Castillo
37-Hike Cerro Castillo
38-Drive to Puerto Río Tranquilo
39-Excursion to Glaciar Exploradores
40-Mármol Cathedral + lake activities
41-Drive to Cochrane
42-Parque Patagonia
43-Drive to Chile Chico
44-Ferry Chile Chico-Ibañez + drive to Coyhaique + drop off car
45-Flight to Punta Arenas (1h30) + explore the city
46-Rent a car + drive to Puerto Natales
47-Drive to Torres del Paine in the morning + hike to the base of the towers (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
48-Torres del Paine hike 2 (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
49-Torres del Paine hike 3 (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
50-Drive to Punta Arenas
51-Flight Punta Arenas-Santiago + flight Santiago-Buenos Aires (2h)
52-Explore Buenos Aires
53-Explore Buenos Aires
54-Explore Buenos Aires
55-Flight back to France
Good evening,
We’d love to go in November to enjoy some beautiful beaches for about two weeks, preferably around Bahia, as November/December seems like a great time.
We’ve already traveled to Brazil several times and know the south of Rio as well as the region between São Luís and Fortaleza, and Chapada Diamantina...
What advice would you give us: the south with Itaparica, Morro de São Paulo, Boipeba, Barra Grande—or all four? Or maybe the north?
Thanks in advance for your help
Hi everyone, it’s been a while since I last posted!
First time in South America for me, my wife, and our 7-year-old son. I’ve put together this itinerary and would love to hear your thoughts:
Bogotá 28/07 – 30/07: Arrival. Which neighborhood and outings would you recommend? Flight to
2 Filandia 30/07 – 03/08: (255 €). Waterfalls and horseback riding, Cocora Valley, Hiking, Nearby villages. Flight to 3 Tayrona 03/08 – 07/08: Hotel La Casablanca
Hike with Tierra Nevada and the Kogui village (any feedback?). Return by inner tube for the little one. Short night hike. Second hike to La Piscina, etc., return by 🐎.
4 Cartagena 07/08 – 10/08: Air-conditioned bus. Staying in Getsemaní? Mangroves & the Castle, exploring the city.
5 Bogotá 10/08 – 12/08
Feel free to share your feedback! Have a great day!
Seb
First time in South America for me, my wife, and our 7-year-old son. I’ve put together this itinerary and would love to hear your thoughts:
Bogotá 28/07 – 30/07: Arrival. Which neighborhood and outings would you recommend? Flight to
2 Filandia 30/07 – 03/08: (255 €). Waterfalls and horseback riding, Cocora Valley, Hiking, Nearby villages. Flight to 3 Tayrona 03/08 – 07/08: Hotel La Casablanca
Hike with Tierra Nevada and the Kogui village (any feedback?). Return by inner tube for the little one. Short night hike. Second hike to La Piscina, etc., return by 🐎.
4 Cartagena 07/08 – 10/08: Air-conditioned bus. Staying in Getsemaní? Mangroves & the Castle, exploring the city.
5 Bogotá 10/08 – 12/08
Feel free to share your feedback! Have a great day!
Seb
Hi,
During an upcoming trip to Peru, we’ll have one day to explore around Arequipa (excluding Colca Canyon) with a car and driver.
We’ve got a few options:
- Toro Muerto petroglyphs and dinosaur footprints at Querulpa
- Ruta del Sillar and Quebrada de Culebrillas
What do you think? Any recommendations?
Thanks in advance! Larri
What do you think? Any recommendations?
Thanks in advance! Larri
We’re a group of 6 friends with an average age of 70, all mobile, and we’re planning a trip to Peru in September/October 2026. Below is an idea of what we’re looking for: a French-speaking guide, accommodation in 3-star hotels or homestays with comfort.
Duration: 16 to 20 days on-site.
Visit the main sites with immersion in the culture and way of life.
Which francophone agency in Peru would you recommend? Thanks
Hi there!
I’m putting together my itinerary for Brazil, looking for beautiful natural spots with wildlife, flora, and great hikes...
I’ve come across the Cananeia / Super Agui / Ilha do Mel region and the PETAR / Intervales / Alto Ribeira area.
Has anyone here been to these places? If so, do you have any recommendations for accommodations and activities?
Thanks in advance!
Best,
Olivier 🌍
Hello,
I’ll be in ARICA in northern Chile at the end of May 2026 and want to get to TACNA. Are there taxis, buses, or collectivos that run the border crossing route?
After that, bus to AREQUIPA (Peru): any bus company you’d recommend?
I’ll be in ARICA in northern Chile at the end of May 2026 and want to get to TACNA. Are there taxis, buses, or collectivos that run the border crossing route?
After that, bus to AREQUIPA (Peru): any bus company you’d recommend?
Hi there,
We’re spending 3 weeks in Brazil, arriving in São Paulo—a couple plus a teen—and we’ll have a rental car.
We especially love nature: hiking, wildlife watching, birds, etc.
We’re planning to wrap up with a week around Paraty and Ilha Grande.
We’re not really into visiting big cities like São Paulo or Rio unless you think we’d be missing out big time.
So we’ve got 2 weeks to explore the south/southwest region of São Paulo. What do you recommend? National parks? Off-the-beaten-path nature spots? Iguazu Falls?
Thanks in advance for all your tips!
So we’ve got 2 weeks to explore the south/southwest region of São Paulo. What do you recommend? National parks? Off-the-beaten-path nature spots? Iguazu Falls?
Thanks in advance for all your tips!
Hi there,
Do you have any recommendations for comfortable accommodation in Leyva and Barichara? We're also looking for a guide to explore the areas around these two towns (parks, waterfalls, etc.).
Thanks for your tips!
I visited Colombia in January 2016 and I’m heading back from August 6th to 17th with the same airline to see how things have changed. Starting August 18th, I’ll continue with independent exploration. I prefer slow travel and enjoying places at my own pace.
Any tips—especially for getting around or must-see spots—are welcome!
Thu Aug 06. Fly Montreal to Bogotá 20:55-04:05+1 Air Canada Fri Aug 07. Bogotá Sat Aug 08. Bogotá Sun Aug 09. Bogotá Mon Aug 10. Fly Bogotá to Medellín Tue Aug 11. Medellín - Explore Guatapé Wed Aug 12. Comuna 8 & Hill of Values - PM Fly to Pereira Thu Aug 13. Montenegro Fri Aug 14. Salento - Cocora Valley Sat Aug 15. Fly to Cartagena Sun Aug 16. Explore Cartagena Mon Aug 17. Explore Cartagena Tue Aug 18. Fly Cartagena to Cali 12:20-14:55 Latam Wed Aug 19. Cali Thu Aug 20. Cali Fri Aug 21. Cali Sat Aug 22. Bus Cali to Popayán 09:00-13:00 Sun Aug 23. Popayán Mon Aug 24. Popayán Tue Aug 25. Popayán - Day trip to Silvia (Market Day) Wed Aug 26. Overland Popayán to Tierradentro by public transportation 4h, 100km Thu Aug 27. Tierradentro Fri Aug 28. Tierradentro Sat Aug 29. Overland Tierradentro to Garzón via La Plata Sun Aug 30. Bus Garzón to San Agustín 10:30-13:00 Mon Aug 31. San Agustín Tue Sep 01. San Agustín Wed Sep 02. San Agustín Thu Sep 03. San Agustín Fri Sep 04. Overland San Agustín to Tatacoa Desert via Neiva Sat Sep 05. Tatacoa Desert Sun Sep 06. Fly to Bogotá via Neiva 16:00-17:00 Latam Mon Sep 07. Bogotá Tue Sep 08. Fly Bogotá to Montreal 09:00-16:30 Air Canada
Thu Aug 06. Fly Montreal to Bogotá 20:55-04:05+1 Air Canada Fri Aug 07. Bogotá Sat Aug 08. Bogotá Sun Aug 09. Bogotá Mon Aug 10. Fly Bogotá to Medellín Tue Aug 11. Medellín - Explore Guatapé Wed Aug 12. Comuna 8 & Hill of Values - PM Fly to Pereira Thu Aug 13. Montenegro Fri Aug 14. Salento - Cocora Valley Sat Aug 15. Fly to Cartagena Sun Aug 16. Explore Cartagena Mon Aug 17. Explore Cartagena Tue Aug 18. Fly Cartagena to Cali 12:20-14:55 Latam Wed Aug 19. Cali Thu Aug 20. Cali Fri Aug 21. Cali Sat Aug 22. Bus Cali to Popayán 09:00-13:00 Sun Aug 23. Popayán Mon Aug 24. Popayán Tue Aug 25. Popayán - Day trip to Silvia (Market Day) Wed Aug 26. Overland Popayán to Tierradentro by public transportation 4h, 100km Thu Aug 27. Tierradentro Fri Aug 28. Tierradentro Sat Aug 29. Overland Tierradentro to Garzón via La Plata Sun Aug 30. Bus Garzón to San Agustín 10:30-13:00 Mon Aug 31. San Agustín Tue Sep 01. San Agustín Wed Sep 02. San Agustín Thu Sep 03. San Agustín Fri Sep 04. Overland San Agustín to Tatacoa Desert via Neiva Sat Sep 05. Tatacoa Desert Sun Sep 06. Fly to Bogotá via Neiva 16:00-17:00 Latam Mon Sep 07. Bogotá Tue Sep 08. Fly Bogotá to Montreal 09:00-16:30 Air Canada
Hi there,
Three years ago during a trip to Java (no, I didn’t post in the wrong forum!), I came across the address of former miners who had switched to “tourism” and organized nighttime ascents of the Kawah Ijen volcano and descents into the crater.
So I was thinking—maybe there are miners on the salt flats too, either former or still active, who do the same thing. If you’ve had an experience like this, I’d love any tips you can share.
Thanks in advance.
Hi there, since there isn’t much recent info on how to get to MP, I’d love to know if there have been any improvements to the "route" to Hydroelectrica. Is it feasible to drive there in February? And is it still possible to walk all the way to Aguas Calientes? I think I read somewhere that it’s no longer allowed??
Do you think I can buy Machu Picchu entrance tickets last-minute at that time of year, given the weather?
Hello everyone!
A group of friends and I are heading to Brazil in March 2019 and we’d love to attend the Carnival parade. I could really use your help because I’m struggling to find reviews for online ticket sellers for Carnival. I came across rio-carnival—is this a reliable agency? Do you have other agencies to recommend or experiences to share? Any advice is welcome.
Thanks! 🙂 Marine
A group of friends and I are heading to Brazil in March 2019 and we’d love to attend the Carnival parade. I could really use your help because I’m struggling to find reviews for online ticket sellers for Carnival. I came across rio-carnival—is this a reliable agency? Do you have other agencies to recommend or experiences to share? Any advice is welcome.
Thanks! 🙂 Marine
Everything You Need to Know About Argentina’s Currency Exchange Maze (2026 Edition)
Hi fellow travelers,
Packing your bags for Buenos Aires? Watch out—here, money is a science almost as complex as the dance steps in a tango!
As of March 2026, the situation has shifted dramatically: the "Blue" (parallel) rate is now neck-and-neck with the official rate. To save you from losing your hard-earned euros in bureaucratic mazes or "disastrous" exchange rates, I’ve laced up my reporter boots and hit the famous Calle Florida for you.
In my latest video (and the accompanying article), I take you behind the scenes of currency exchange:
Arbolitos and Cuevas: Who are they, and can you still trust them? The Rate Showdown: Why Banco Nación is currently the worst place for your savings. Western Union: Why it’s often your best ally right now. Cash or Card? The little secret to getting an instant 10–15% discount at restaurants or hotels. The Bill Trap: Why your 500 € notes or stained dollars might stay in your wallet.
Argentina changes fast—*very* fast (by the end of March, today’s advice might already be old news!). So don’t leave without checking the market’s pulse.
Check out all my tips in the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKmKFux4fpQ
And remember: in Argentina, don’t exchange money on weekends—unless you want your cash to melt like snow in the sun!
Safe travels, and see you on the road! Hergé
Packing your bags for Buenos Aires? Watch out—here, money is a science almost as complex as the dance steps in a tango!
As of March 2026, the situation has shifted dramatically: the "Blue" (parallel) rate is now neck-and-neck with the official rate. To save you from losing your hard-earned euros in bureaucratic mazes or "disastrous" exchange rates, I’ve laced up my reporter boots and hit the famous Calle Florida for you.
In my latest video (and the accompanying article), I take you behind the scenes of currency exchange:
Arbolitos and Cuevas: Who are they, and can you still trust them? The Rate Showdown: Why Banco Nación is currently the worst place for your savings. Western Union: Why it’s often your best ally right now. Cash or Card? The little secret to getting an instant 10–15% discount at restaurants or hotels. The Bill Trap: Why your 500 € notes or stained dollars might stay in your wallet.
Argentina changes fast—*very* fast (by the end of March, today’s advice might already be old news!). So don’t leave without checking the market’s pulse.
Check out all my tips in the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKmKFux4fpQ
And remember: in Argentina, don’t exchange money on weekends—unless you want your cash to melt like snow in the sun!
Safe travels, and see you on the road! Hergé





