quito/machachi 1.5$ fete del chagra le 2eme we de juillet, et ca tombait juste... 3j de fiesta, defile a cheval, de danseurs et los Toros!! 2h pour traverser le village avec les sacs sur le dos, tellement la foule etait dense..1000 chevaux inscrits(500 de plus ont participés, parait-il!!) hotel "el chiquac" a 12$/p avec petit dej copieux et excellent, tres cher, mais au calme, l'hotel "Le real " est placépres du marché, nous avons visiter les chambres, bien mieux et 16$ la double!!! mais bruyant... superbe marché aux fruits et legumes, superbe fiesta et corrida... le patron de l'hotel est guide et accompagne des groupes(40$/jour)en plus de son boulot dans sa boutique d'agro. machachi/latacunga prendre le bus de l'autre cote de la panam, 1$ 1h, taxi pour aller au centre ville 1$ latacunga hotel Cotopaxi 16$ la double avec sdb, excellent, chambre spacieuse avec placard, et fenetre donnant sur la place, mais qui est deserte la nuit jusque 6h du matin sur le marche, excellents repas, soupe de marisco, crabes...pour 1.5(avec planchette en bois et maillet pour le crabe) la suite....plus tard
De retour d'Equateur, renseignements en vrac!
by Micmag
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
quelques renseignements en vrac, avant de mettre mon carnet de voyage en ligne..
Arrivée a Quito avec 2 j de retards(on ns a paye 2 nuits d'hotel a caracas 5* siouplait, plus un billet pour l'an prochain!!)
-Quito:hotel "la posada colonial" paredes188 et rocafuerte, ns y sommes alle en taxi, mais tout a fait possible de s'y rendre en trole, arret au terminal, c'est tout a cote. 8$ la chambre pour 2 avec salle de bain(et eau chaude)petit dej en plus a 1.5
mitad del mundo:bus pour l'universite (0.25)puis autre bus(0.40) pour le site, entrée du site 2$.Aller d'abord au cratere, car l'apres midi le brouillard tombe et pas de vue...
telepherique et pichincha, sur la place Ipiealas se troouve le marché et egalement la parada des bus Tuneles(ils sont juste avant le tunel!!)0.25, de là part une navette gratuite jusqu'au pieds du telepherique, 4$ laplace qui vous monte a 4000m, a partir de là des ballades a faire sans probleme(a part l'altitude, bien etre acclimate avant, mais quito etant a 2800m, 3 j ns ont suffit) le chemin est bien tracé, pas mal de gens montent(pas mal d'inconscients en sandaladettes!!mais qui redescendent peu de temps apres)
quito/otavalo:bus au terminal(pas loin de l'hotel)taxe de sortie0.25, bus 2h/2$
otavalo "Hostal geranio" ricaurte y morales 10 $ chambre double avec sdb(petit dej en plus si vous voulez a 2$) place des ponchos super(trop)touristique on y est alles que le soir a la fermeture des stands, et l'ouverture des stands de bouffe, et egalement pour voir les matchs d'ecuavolley, tres bonnes brochettes et humitas, internet juste en face pas cher et rapide
marche pas loin de l'hotel, excellents repas complets pour 1$
marche aux animaux le dimanche, a voir absoluement avant complete disparition
casacade de peguche a faire a pieds, sans aucune difficulté
otavalo/ibara bus 0.43/p qui ns laisse au marché de las amazonas d'ibarra, peu ou pas de touriste, population totalement differente
quiroga, bus au terminal 0.25, taxi 4$ pour la laguna cuicocha, entrée du parc 1$(ils exagerent !)
cotacachi bus depuis quiroga 1$, ville specialisée ds le cuir, vestes et blousons de tres bonne qualite
quito/machachi 1.5$ fete del chagra le 2eme we de juillet, et ca tombait juste... 3j de fiesta, defile a cheval, de danseurs et los Toros!! 2h pour traverser le village avec les sacs sur le dos, tellement la foule etait dense..1000 chevaux inscrits(500 de plus ont participés, parait-il!!) hotel "el chiquac" a 12$/p avec petit dej copieux et excellent, tres cher, mais au calme, l'hotel "Le real " est placépres du marché, nous avons visiter les chambres, bien mieux et 16$ la double!!! mais bruyant... superbe marché aux fruits et legumes, superbe fiesta et corrida... le patron de l'hotel est guide et accompagne des groupes(40$/jour)en plus de son boulot dans sa boutique d'agro. machachi/latacunga prendre le bus de l'autre cote de la panam, 1$ 1h, taxi pour aller au centre ville 1$ latacunga hotel Cotopaxi 16$ la double avec sdb, excellent, chambre spacieuse avec placard, et fenetre donnant sur la place, mais qui est deserte la nuit jusque 6h du matin sur le marche, excellents repas, soupe de marisco, crabes...pour 1.5(avec planchette en bois et maillet pour le crabe) la suite....plus tard
quito/machachi 1.5$ fete del chagra le 2eme we de juillet, et ca tombait juste... 3j de fiesta, defile a cheval, de danseurs et los Toros!! 2h pour traverser le village avec les sacs sur le dos, tellement la foule etait dense..1000 chevaux inscrits(500 de plus ont participés, parait-il!!) hotel "el chiquac" a 12$/p avec petit dej copieux et excellent, tres cher, mais au calme, l'hotel "Le real " est placépres du marché, nous avons visiter les chambres, bien mieux et 16$ la double!!! mais bruyant... superbe marché aux fruits et legumes, superbe fiesta et corrida... le patron de l'hotel est guide et accompagne des groupes(40$/jour)en plus de son boulot dans sa boutique d'agro. machachi/latacunga prendre le bus de l'autre cote de la panam, 1$ 1h, taxi pour aller au centre ville 1$ latacunga hotel Cotopaxi 16$ la double avec sdb, excellent, chambre spacieuse avec placard, et fenetre donnant sur la place, mais qui est deserte la nuit jusque 6h du matin sur le marche, excellents repas, soupe de marisco, crabes...pour 1.5(avec planchette en bois et maillet pour le crabe) la suite....plus tard
mag
http://sudam.canalblog.com (nos voyages en amerique du sud)
http://egyptenliberte.canalblog.com
suite...
terminal de l'autre cote du pont, pres du marché Del Salto de latacunga
Latacunga/quilotoa bus au terminal 2$ a 10h par zumbahua puis quilotoa a 12h30, entrée 1$(ils abusent toujours!!) pour voir le lac et les boutiques de souvenirs!!
le car repart vers 13h30
latacunga/ambato/guaranda
30mn 1$ jusqu'a ambato, puis 2$ pour 2h de bus jusque guaranda(route magnifique qui contourne le chimborazo)
guaranda "le santa fe" 10de agosto y 9 de abril 12$ la double tv et sdb(instalation elevtrique plus que louche, donc on ne sait pas si ilya de l'eau chaude!)
tres bon point Info touristique, monument del indio a 2800m(point de vue sur la ville et le chimbo )
guaranda/riobamba 2$/2h passage a 4300m en contournant tj le chimbo
riobamba hotel "imperial" rocafuerte 22-15 y 10 de agosto 10$ la double avec sdb et tv
bus pour calpi 0.2 puis 2km a pied pour aller a palacio real, restaurant d'une comunaute servant les repas de 11a 15h, specialite de viande d'alpaca5$ le repas, 4km plus loin st fransisco, jolies balades a faire au dessus vers le lac(vers 3500m)
a riobamba excellentes chuletasavec lentilles et riz pour 2.25 $ pres de la gare de train (stands de bouffes tout le long)
mag
http://sudam.canalblog.com (nos voyages en amerique du sud)
http://egyptenliberte.canalblog.com
resuite...
terminal pour banos(pas le meme que pour ambato, mais le bus emprunte "mas o menos" la meme route)la route directe est coupée depuis pas mal d'années.Ce terminal se trouve au marché d'oriente, plusieurs compagnies pour banos
riobamba/banos 2h 2$
banos hotel assez loin du centre(pour ne pas etre deranges par le bruit) 15$ la double avec sdb, correcte, mais c'est la ville qui ne ns a pas plue(aucune vie, ni âme que du commerce!! beurkkk ...)prix plus eleves internet a 1 ou 1.5, biere egalement, les gens essayent de t'arnaquer sans vergogne...
balade a faire autour de banos par le pont de san fransisco
restau sympa(quand meme) "le banenito" frequenténiquement par des equatoriens
banos/puyo bus 2$ 1h30 de route a travers les defiles
puyo ville bien plus agreable que banos, promenades a faire et ds la ville et vers la riviere, ds le parc touristique frequenté lui aussi que par les equatoriens, avec qd meme un immonde "lodge" entouré de barbelés(des fois que les gens veuilent s'enfuire, ou des malfrats rentrer..)
banos/riobamba/cuenca 2$ pour riobamba, puis 6 pour cuenca 6h de route et quelle route!!qui passe par Alausi et canar
cuenca ne surtout pas aller au "capitolio" voleur, mafieux et compagnie, 10$par personne et une vrai merde de piole!! eux seuls ont l'autorisation pour racoler au terminal et empeche les autres hotels de faire de la pub
"el hogar cuenceno" hermano miguel 4-36 y calle larga 5 (sans sdb)ou 6 $/p(avec sdb)
pour acheter des panamas, preferé le marché des femmes plutot que les boutiques en ville, beaucoup moins cher 6 a 15$ au stand n°50(avec boite de balsa) au marché couvert a coté, tres bons repas et jus de fruits
visite gratuite de la fabrique de chapeaux (mais là, ils sont chers)
cuenca/gualaceo bus n °15 ou 19 a la calle larga pour le terminal (0.25), puis bus pour la ville ou on peut manger le celebre Hornado sur le marché
bistrot tres sympa devant l'hotel "le chihuaha" ou ns avons fait 2 bringues memorables, on peut y manger egalement pour 1.5, et y boire des canelazos et autres...
cuenca/guayaquil par le parc de Cajas, c'est moins long est la route est superbe 4h 7$(cette fois ci, ça n'a pas suivi la regle du 1h=1$ !!)
guayaquil taxi (plus cher qu'ailleurs) 3$, hotel Velez, rue velez 1021 y quito, pres du parc centenaire 9.60$ pour 2 avec sdb, tv et ventilo(moins cher qu'ailleurs!!)
playas bus pour le terminal de bus 0.25, 2.5 pour playas, restau sur la plage servant crabes, mariscos et poissons...
puerto hondo bus 1.10, piscine et malecon sans touriste
a guayquil, internet tres interressant a 0.40 l'h a rumichaca 818b entre 9 d'octubre y victor manuel rendon du mercredi au dimanche, et 0.25 l'h de 9h a 9h30 et a 20h
et fin.... l'equateur est un pays ou les gens sont tres agreables, il n'y a pas ce rapport a l'argent et aux touristes qui est assez desagreable au perou.le pays etant tres petit(la 1/2 de la france)les distances sont donc tres courtes d'une ville a une autre(tj par rapport au Pérou)le plus long trajet a été de 6h.
depenses(hors achats perso)500$/p pour 4 semaines 1/2
et fin.... l'equateur est un pays ou les gens sont tres agreables, il n'y a pas ce rapport a l'argent et aux touristes qui est assez desagreable au perou.le pays etant tres petit(la 1/2 de la france)les distances sont donc tres courtes d'une ville a une autre(tj par rapport au Pérou)le plus long trajet a été de 6h.
depenses(hors achats perso)500$/p pour 4 semaines 1/2
mag
http://sudam.canalblog.com (nos voyages en amerique du sud)
http://egyptenliberte.canalblog.com
Merci pour toutes ces informations Mag 😉
Dirais-tu que ton voyage préféré (ds son ensemble) serait l'Equateur par rapport au Pérou, au Brésil et à l'Argentine ?
Au cours de ton périple, as-tu rencontré des associations ou écoles qui t'ont tenu à coeur et que nous pourrions visiter à notre tour pour leur offrir des animations créatives, culturelles et sportives ?
Merci de nous avoir fait partager tes bons tuyaux et bon vent 🙂
Blandine
Dirais-tu que ton voyage préféré (ds son ensemble) serait l'Equateur par rapport au Pérou, au Brésil et à l'Argentine ?
Au cours de ton périple, as-tu rencontré des associations ou écoles qui t'ont tenu à coeur et que nous pourrions visiter à notre tour pour leur offrir des animations créatives, culturelles et sportives ?
Merci de nous avoir fait partager tes bons tuyaux et bon vent 🙂
Blandine
Blandine
* ** Présidente heureuse et optimiste ***
salut Blandine
difficile de dire si c'est mon voyage preferé !!! chacun est differents et apportent des choses nouvelles...
c'est le plus tranquile en tout cas, par rapport aux trajets, transports d'un point a un autre, routes en meilleurs etat qu'au perou, gens qui ne te harcelent pas pour te cirer les pompes ou te proposer tel ou tel hotel ou tour !!!
par rapport au bresil, sans aucun doute (bresil tres cher, contact avec les gens assez "superficiel")
par rapport au perou, gens plus ouverts, peut etre dû au tourisme tres (trop)important au perou? surtout ds le sud.
pour la seconde partie de ta question, j'avoue que non, ns visitons tout a fait égoistement ....🤪
Par contre, je peux te dire qu'en matiere d'animations sportives, et culturelles, les equatoriens ne sont pas en reste.Les gens, adultes, enfts passent leur temps libre a l'écuavolley sur les places des villages, en rentrant du boulot ou de l'ecole, pdt les vacances scolaires, ils ont ce que ns appelons ici "le centre aéré" tres bien conçu ou les enfts font pas mal d'activités, les universités ont leurs club de danse classique et contemporaine et se produisent en public(ns y avons assistés a cuenca)des groupes folkloriques et courses de chaski, defile de Chagra etc etc... a+
Par contre, je peux te dire qu'en matiere d'animations sportives, et culturelles, les equatoriens ne sont pas en reste.Les gens, adultes, enfts passent leur temps libre a l'écuavolley sur les places des villages, en rentrant du boulot ou de l'ecole, pdt les vacances scolaires, ils ont ce que ns appelons ici "le centre aéré" tres bien conçu ou les enfts font pas mal d'activités, les universités ont leurs club de danse classique et contemporaine et se produisent en public(ns y avons assistés a cuenca)des groupes folkloriques et courses de chaski, defile de Chagra etc etc... a+
mag
http://sudam.canalblog.com (nos voyages en amerique du sud)
http://egyptenliberte.canalblog.com
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Bonjour.
J'ai déjà posté un message sur des renseignements au sujet de notre futur voyage au Chili.
Les précisions: Se déplacer en bus ou en train.
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Éviter les plages ..
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we’re arriving in Fortaleza on February 14, 2027, and planning to rent a car to drive to João Pessoa in two stages. We’ll leave from there on the 20th or 21st to head to Rio. Our questions:
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Hi there,
I’m planning a trip with my partner (no kids this time—thanks, Grandma!) for two weeks to celebrate her 40th birthday. I’ve been thinking about Chile. We’re looking at leaving around September 18, 2027, starting in the south and returning in early April.
Here’s what I had in mind:
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What do you think? Thanks,
8 nights in a van in the Lake District and the start of the Carretera Austral (up to the Chaitén area). We’re set to arrive in Puerto Montt around 2:00 PM. We don’t want to go too far south since we’re planning to explore the heart of Patagonia (Chile and Argentina) with the kids when they’re older. The idea is to spend 3 nights discovering the lakes (up to Cochamó) and 3 nights in Pumalín Park. I’ve also added two transition nights. 7 nights in the Atacama to experience another side of Chile (San Pedro), taking a domestic flight from Puerto Montt to Calama in the early afternoon. We’ll depart for France in the early evening from Santiago.
What do you think? Thanks,
IMPORTANT NOTICE for those planning to take a bus to another city, state, or destination from Salvador!
Starting January 20, 2026, the intercity bus station Rodoviária is changing its address! The Rodoviária is leaving the Iguatemi area and will now be located in ÁGUAS CLARAS (about twenty kilometers from downtown Salvador).
A brand-new station (the most modern in Brazil) has just been set up there, accessible by car/taxi/Uber/metro. Allow for much more transfer time (especially during rush hours), so leave early if you're heading to Chapada Diamantina or other Brazilian cities by bus.
Remember, there are also private transfers (even French-speaking ones) that can take you directly from your hotel in Salvador to your hotel in Chapada. Sure, it’ll be more expensive, but you’ll save on transfer time and comfort.
Tropical greetings from Salvador,
@ivanbahiaguide
Loyal member of the French-Speaking Brazil Forums for over 15 years already 😊 🇧🇷
Starting January 20, 2026, the intercity bus station Rodoviária is changing its address! The Rodoviária is leaving the Iguatemi area and will now be located in ÁGUAS CLARAS (about twenty kilometers from downtown Salvador).
A brand-new station (the most modern in Brazil) has just been set up there, accessible by car/taxi/Uber/metro. Allow for much more transfer time (especially during rush hours), so leave early if you're heading to Chapada Diamantina or other Brazilian cities by bus.
Remember, there are also private transfers (even French-speaking ones) that can take you directly from your hotel in Salvador to your hotel in Chapada. Sure, it’ll be more expensive, but you’ll save on transfer time and comfort.
Tropical greetings from Salvador,
@ivanbahiaguide
Loyal member of the French-Speaking Brazil Forums for over 15 years already 😊 🇧🇷
Hello,
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Hi everyone,
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After this, we're also planning to explore northern Santiago. I'll post about that part once I have a clearer idea of the route.
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After this, we're also planning to explore northern Santiago. I'll post about that part once I have a clearer idea of the route.
What do you think of this itinerary? Is it doable in 17 days? Thanks in advance for your tips and recommendations. martine
Hi everyone! So happy to be back on this forum—it’s packed with such useful info! 🙂 My husband and I are planning a 2.5-week self-drive trip to Colombia at the end of the year, including some domestic flights. My first question is: is it possible, easy, and safe to do a road trip in Colombia?
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29/11: France → Colombia. Overnight in Bogotá. 30/11: Exploring Bogotá: La Candelaria and Montserrate. 01/12: Gold Museum (closed on Mondays). Drive to Zipaquirá (1.5 hrs) to visit the Salt Cathedral. Then drive to Villa de Leyva (3 hrs). Explore the town. Overnight in Villa de Leyva. 02/12: Return to Bogotá via Laguna de Guatavita (5 hrs). Is it worth the detour? Overnight in Bogotá. 03/12: Flight to Pereira. Drive to Salento. Overnight in Salento. 04/12: Cocora Valley (hike among the wax palms) followed by a drive around the area. Are there any waterfalls or other sights nearby? 05/12: Visit a coffee finca—any recommendations? Then explore the surroundings: Filandia, Manizales, waterfalls? Hot springs? Which ones? 06/12: Flight to Medellín. 07/12: Exploring Medellín: Centro, Plaza Botero, Comuna 13. How do you visit Comuna 13? Is it easy to get around Medellín? Metro? Buses? 08/12: Drive to Guatapé (2 hrs). Visit the town, stroll around the lake, then El Peñol. Overnight in Guatapé. 09/12: Return to Medellín. 10/12: Flight to Santa Marta. Drive to a hotel near Tayrona Park. 11/12: Tayrona—El Zaino entrance. 12/12: Tayrona—Palangana entrance, then Bahia Concha and Santa Marta. What do you think? 13/12: Drive to Minca (45 mins). Can we reach the village by car? Pozo Azul and Marinka waterfalls. Overnight in Minca (or back in Tayrona?). 14/12: Drive to Puerto Nao (5 hrs). Stop in Ciénaga on the way + boat tour in Nueva Venecia and/or Buena Vista? Not enough time? Overnight in Puerto Nao. 15/12: Exploring Cartagena: Centro, Getsemaní, the walls + La Boquilla if we have time. 16/12: La Boquilla (is it really worth it?) if we didn’t have time yesterday, then back to the beach. 17/12: Return to France.
So, what do you think? Is this doable, or should we tweak it? Thanks in advance for your invaluable feedback and tips! 🙂
Below is our draft itinerary (with questions at each stop):
29/11: France → Colombia. Overnight in Bogotá. 30/11: Exploring Bogotá: La Candelaria and Montserrate. 01/12: Gold Museum (closed on Mondays). Drive to Zipaquirá (1.5 hrs) to visit the Salt Cathedral. Then drive to Villa de Leyva (3 hrs). Explore the town. Overnight in Villa de Leyva. 02/12: Return to Bogotá via Laguna de Guatavita (5 hrs). Is it worth the detour? Overnight in Bogotá. 03/12: Flight to Pereira. Drive to Salento. Overnight in Salento. 04/12: Cocora Valley (hike among the wax palms) followed by a drive around the area. Are there any waterfalls or other sights nearby? 05/12: Visit a coffee finca—any recommendations? Then explore the surroundings: Filandia, Manizales, waterfalls? Hot springs? Which ones? 06/12: Flight to Medellín. 07/12: Exploring Medellín: Centro, Plaza Botero, Comuna 13. How do you visit Comuna 13? Is it easy to get around Medellín? Metro? Buses? 08/12: Drive to Guatapé (2 hrs). Visit the town, stroll around the lake, then El Peñol. Overnight in Guatapé. 09/12: Return to Medellín. 10/12: Flight to Santa Marta. Drive to a hotel near Tayrona Park. 11/12: Tayrona—El Zaino entrance. 12/12: Tayrona—Palangana entrance, then Bahia Concha and Santa Marta. What do you think? 13/12: Drive to Minca (45 mins). Can we reach the village by car? Pozo Azul and Marinka waterfalls. Overnight in Minca (or back in Tayrona?). 14/12: Drive to Puerto Nao (5 hrs). Stop in Ciénaga on the way + boat tour in Nueva Venecia and/or Buena Vista? Not enough time? Overnight in Puerto Nao. 15/12: Exploring Cartagena: Centro, Getsemaní, the walls + La Boquilla if we have time. 16/12: La Boquilla (is it really worth it?) if we didn’t have time yesterday, then back to the beach. 17/12: Return to France.
So, what do you think? Is this doable, or should we tweak it? Thanks in advance for your invaluable feedback and tips! 🙂
Hi there, I’ll be in Brazil from December 10th to the end of February.
I’ve sketched out a rough itinerary but I’m not sure how to arrange it—considering the climate, year-end holidays, and Carnival.
Basically, I’m thinking of the Amazon, the Northeast coast with Lençóis Maranhenses National Park (but skipping Chapada Diamantina),
Ouro Preto, Paraty, and Ilha Grande—but no Rio visit.
Is this doable in 3 months?
Which direction should I take for this itinerary?
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone, does anyone know the agency Ventura Travel Agency (not ventura travel)? After lots of research and quotes, it’s the only one offering Uyuni at a reasonable price while meeting all the criteria: transfer to the border, private-room accommodation, and a very fair rate. Other agencies or guides either offer shared rooms, no border transfer, or prices that are way too high. But I’d love to hear some reviews about this agency. Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
We're planning a trip to Chile to visit the Atacama Desert and then head toward Putre, Lauca, Salar de Surire, etc.
Which would be the better time to go, April or November?
Is an SUV enough?
Looking forward to your tips!
Hi, I'm looking for a local agency in Uyuni to do the trip and tours from Uyuni to San Pedro de Atacama. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Hi there,
Could you recommend any car rental agencies in Calama and Punta Arenas? Best regards,
Could you recommend any car rental agencies in Calama and Punta Arenas? Best regards,
Hi everyone, French travelers in Chile—what credit cards do you use for your various car rentals in the country? I’m traveling in September and was planning to switch my regular debit card (a VISA PREMIER in deferred debit mode) for the deposit guarantee.
My rentals are with Figal in Punta Arenas, Econautos in Arica, and Chilean Rent a Car in Temuco, and all of them want the deposit on a credit card. For me, deferred debit *should* work, but I’ve read comments saying the opposite.
How’s it actually working on the ground with these rental companies right now? Will a deferred debit card work, or not at all?
In France, banks don’t issue credit cards, right—or am I mistaken?
Thanks for your help!
My rentals are with Figal in Punta Arenas, Econautos in Arica, and Chilean Rent a Car in Temuco, and all of them want the deposit on a credit card. For me, deferred debit *should* work, but I’ve read comments saying the opposite.
How’s it actually working on the ground with these rental companies right now? Will a deferred debit card work, or not at all?
In France, banks don’t issue credit cards, right—or am I mistaken?
Thanks for your help!
Hi everyone, is it still possible to travel in Ecuador outside the Amazon region? If so, do you have a reliable agency to recommend? All your recent experiences from the past few months would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much
Hi,
We’re heading to Buenos Aires for 3 days in November and would like to do a guided tour of a few neighborhoods. There are "free" tours, but none in French. Does anyone have a guide to recommend so we can really get to know the city beyond just the architecture?
Thanks
Hi there,
I’m desperately looking for info on the schedules and routes of (shared) boats to visit the islands of Lake Titicaca.
From what I’ve found, there’s a *combi* (bus) that leaves from Puno to go to Llachon. Where do you catch it? What are the schedules and frequency? Does it take about 1 hour?
Then in Llachon, you can take a boat to Amantani (45 min). Same question—where do you check for frequency and schedule? After that, from Amantani, boats go to Taquile and then Uros. Do you have enough time to visit the islands between two boats? Frequency and schedule?
The goal is to do this tour independently (no agency) over 2 days. Thanks for any tips you might have!
Then in Llachon, you can take a boat to Amantani (45 min). Same question—where do you check for frequency and schedule? After that, from Amantani, boats go to Taquile and then Uros. Do you have enough time to visit the islands between two boats? Frequency and schedule?
The goal is to do this tour independently (no agency) over 2 days. Thanks for any tips you might have!
Hey everyone,
I just got back from a trip to Bolivia and wow—what a wake-up call. It’s not the easiest country, but it’s absolutely stunning.
I started with Isla del Sol, perfect for easing into the altitude at a relaxed pace. Try to stay in the northern part of the island—it’s quieter and the views are insane. And the trout there? Unreal. Quick tip: bring cash in small bills; they almost never have change, and cards are rarely accepted.
Next up, La Paz. The city’s pretty wild, built in every direction. I did a few hikes in the area, including the famous Charquini Lagoon (the blue lake) at over 5,000 m—let’s just say I struggled 😅 but it was so beautiful it was totally worth it.
After that, I headed to Sajama. It’s cool, especially for the hot springs, and I stayed in Tomarapi. But honestly, if you’re short on time, you can skip it without too many regrets.
The highlight of the trip: the Salar. I did it starting from Tupiza, and I *highly* recommend going Tupiza → Uyuni. Way less crowded at the start and the landscapes are super varied. For the tour, I used SplitYourGuide to find a group, and it worked out great. Super handy for splitting costs and meeting people.
I wrapped up in Sucre—this city is gorgeous, all white, with such a chill vibe. And the salteñas + ice cream? Next level 😋
Bottom line: Bolivia’s a bit rough around the edges, sometimes exhausting (shoutout to the altitude), but it’s 1000% worth it.
If you’ve got questions or need tips, I’m happy to help! Martin
I just got back from a trip to Bolivia and wow—what a wake-up call. It’s not the easiest country, but it’s absolutely stunning.
I started with Isla del Sol, perfect for easing into the altitude at a relaxed pace. Try to stay in the northern part of the island—it’s quieter and the views are insane. And the trout there? Unreal. Quick tip: bring cash in small bills; they almost never have change, and cards are rarely accepted.
Next up, La Paz. The city’s pretty wild, built in every direction. I did a few hikes in the area, including the famous Charquini Lagoon (the blue lake) at over 5,000 m—let’s just say I struggled 😅 but it was so beautiful it was totally worth it.
After that, I headed to Sajama. It’s cool, especially for the hot springs, and I stayed in Tomarapi. But honestly, if you’re short on time, you can skip it without too many regrets.
The highlight of the trip: the Salar. I did it starting from Tupiza, and I *highly* recommend going Tupiza → Uyuni. Way less crowded at the start and the landscapes are super varied. For the tour, I used SplitYourGuide to find a group, and it worked out great. Super handy for splitting costs and meeting people.
I wrapped up in Sucre—this city is gorgeous, all white, with such a chill vibe. And the salteñas + ice cream? Next level 😋
Bottom line: Bolivia’s a bit rough around the edges, sometimes exhausting (shoutout to the altitude), but it’s 1000% worth it.
If you’ve got questions or need tips, I’m happy to help! Martin
hi,
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,
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,
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Patagonia for three weeks in November, starting from Coyhaique in Chile.
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






