Salut à tous,
Je reviens tout juste du Paraguay. Si vous voulez avoir des infos fraiches n'ésiter à me contacter (politique, climat, taux de change, sécurité...).
Original post
Retour hier du Paraguay
by Yacare
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Au départ d'Iguazu, tu peux aller vers Encarnacion (en fâce Posadas en Argentine) et voir les ruines jésuites des missions évangélistes qui ont christianiser les tribus indigènes (voir le film Mission avec Robert De Niro). Après tu peux aller faire un tour à la capitale Asuncion puis revenir à Iguazu via Ciudad del Este. Tu verras les deux fleuves Parana et Paraguay. Tu pourras te rendre près de Cuidad del Este à Itaypu (le plus grand barrage électrique du monde- la visite est gratuite et un film en français te sera projeté). Tu fais ça en trois jours sans problème, et les bus sont vraiment pas chers (compte 15 euros pour faire le tour). Tu trouve des hotel trés confortables pour 8 à 10 euros la nuit et tu peux manger à partir de 2 euros !!!
Au niveau sécurité, si tu voyage discret pas de problème. Les paraguayens sont trés simpas. Evite seulement les voyages de nuits entre Asuncion et Cuidad del Este...
Bonne route.
Au niveau sécurité, si tu voyage discret pas de problème. Les paraguayens sont trés simpas. Evite seulement les voyages de nuits entre Asuncion et Cuidad del Este...
Bonne route.
le plus grand barrage électrique du monde- la visite est gratuite et un film en français te sera projeté
Le film en Françai. C'est du coté paraguayen ou du coté bresilien ???? Coté Bresilien j'ai eu le droit a un film ressemblant a une belle propagande en Portugais (o Brasil entra no tercer milenario com a represa do Itaipu....) sous titré en anglais. Enfin j'ai bien rigolé en voyant ce film même avec le peu de portugias que je connait (O Brasil o melhor de mundo!!!)
Le film en Françai. C'est du coté paraguayen ou du coté bresilien ???? Coté Bresilien j'ai eu le droit a un film ressemblant a une belle propagande en Portugais (o Brasil entra no tercer milenario com a represa do Itaipu....) sous titré en anglais. Enfin j'ai bien rigolé en voyant ce film même avec le peu de portugias que je connait (O Brasil o melhor de mundo!!!)
C'est du côté paraguayen. Les brésiliens, comme les argentins, ont un orgueil à la mesure de leur pays, n'est ce pas, hermano urugayo? J'ai une amie urugayenne à Asuncion. La prochaine fois, il faut que je vienne voir ton pays... Che, on m'a parlé d'une ville thermale où seuls les urugayens ont la possibilité de rentrer?...
😏 hola Yacare, merci pour les'' tuyaux '' une petite question :quand tu dis d' eviter les voyages de nuits, cela veut dire :pas de bus la nuit, seulement rouler le jour ?Ce n' est donc pas comme au Bresil ou le bus de nuit est sans risque ?Asuncion vaut la peine d' etre visitee ?😏
Salut,
Je souhaitais avoir une info politique... j'ai assisté hier à une conférence à Bruxelles donnée par les représentants du parti MAS d'Evo Morales en Bolivie. Ce qui est plutôt clair, c'est que ceux-ci ont une politique qui ne s'aligne pas sur celle des états unis... des troupes américaines se seraient depuis peu positionnées au... Paraguay, dans le but de mieux contrôler ce qui se passe en Bolivie. Aurais-tu des infos à ce sujet?
Merci
Je souhaitais avoir une info politique... j'ai assisté hier à une conférence à Bruxelles donnée par les représentants du parti MAS d'Evo Morales en Bolivie. Ce qui est plutôt clair, c'est que ceux-ci ont une politique qui ne s'aligne pas sur celle des états unis... des troupes américaines se seraient depuis peu positionnées au... Paraguay, dans le but de mieux contrôler ce qui se passe en Bolivie. Aurais-tu des infos à ce sujet?
Merci
les americains ont toujours de bonnes raisons pour s installer dans un pays, surtout si celui ci est plein de richesses
a l heure d aujour d hui ils sont aussi au parana pour des raisons tres curieuses, mais surtout pour empecher les bresiliens de croitre leur culture, afin que leurs recoltes ne depassent pas les recoltes americaines
pour cela ils font beaucoup de choses pas tres sympas
les besiliens n en voulant pas ils sinstallent au parraguay qui est tres proche de l etat de parana
ce qu ils surveillent ce n est pas la bolivie, mais les cultures bresiliennes, ils font plein d accords avec des organisations, celles justement qui devraient proteger!!!
ah la politique ce n est pas tres joli!
regarde ce qui cest passe en irak! a + talila
Salut, et merci de ta réponse...je ne connais pas trop les problèmes du brésil et je ne connaissais même pas l'état du parana. J'ai déjà appris quelque chose aujourd'hui, merci!
Ce que je sais par contre, et c'est plutôt évident, c'est que les Etats unis (son gouvernement en tous cas) n'aiment pas qu'on aille dans un sens contre leurs intérêts... et en Bolivie, leurs intérêts sont clairement en danger depuis l'avènement du MAS, tant les ressources sont énorme et exploitées depuis plus de 500 ans, et non pas par le peuple bolivien... Aujourd'hui, les choses changent, le MAS veut rendre au peuple ce qui lui appartient et d'après le parti de Evo morales, les USA se sont positionné au paraguay en vue d'une éventuelle intervention future en Bolivie (un prétexte est vite trouvé: narcotraffic, ingérence, ..) ... par "chance" (?!?), la situation en Irak, ce nouveau vietnam, rend toute autre intervention militaire des états unis impossible... ... actuellement!
A +
Ce que je sais par contre, et c'est plutôt évident, c'est que les Etats unis (son gouvernement en tous cas) n'aiment pas qu'on aille dans un sens contre leurs intérêts... et en Bolivie, leurs intérêts sont clairement en danger depuis l'avènement du MAS, tant les ressources sont énorme et exploitées depuis plus de 500 ans, et non pas par le peuple bolivien... Aujourd'hui, les choses changent, le MAS veut rendre au peuple ce qui lui appartient et d'après le parti de Evo morales, les USA se sont positionné au paraguay en vue d'une éventuelle intervention future en Bolivie (un prétexte est vite trouvé: narcotraffic, ingérence, ..) ... par "chance" (?!?), la situation en Irak, ce nouveau vietnam, rend toute autre intervention militaire des états unis impossible... ... actuellement!
A +
Dans tous les pays d'Amérique du Sud, la nuit apporte ces dangers. Au Paraguay, il est préférable de voyager de jour, car la nuit les accidents sont nombreux. Mais tu fais comme tu veux :-))
Tout à fait vrai. J'ai moi-mème apperçu des soldats avec des tenues aux drapeaux paraguayen et américain...
En fait, il souhaite controler la zone. La Colombie entretient des rapports "commerciaux" avec la Bolivie (dont le président a été élu par les cultivateurs de coca). Le cartel est installé dans la région, et toute la partie Nord du Paraguay est sans contrôle, car c'est une zone trés inospitalière (le Chaco). Cette partie du pays est aux mains des trafiquant, qui l'utilisent pour distribuer la drogue au Brésil et en Argentine... Le pouvoir en place trés corrompu, laisse faire. C'est une espèce d'accord de bon principe: "je te laisse utilisé le nord du Chaco pour ton bussiness et si j'ai besoin de protection, d'argent, de tueurs tu es là pour moi"...
Les américains ont faits comme tout le monde. Souhaitant savoir ce qu'il se passe, ils ont monayé leurs présence au Paraguay, officiellement pour créer une zone d'excice militaire, plus sûrement pour avoir un oeil sur le cartel (la drogue rapporte beaucoup d'argent en Amérique du Sud et du Nord...).
Le territoire qui leur a été attribué est proche des Trois Frontières Paraguay-Brésil-Argentine(ouest-centre). Ils mettent également en place à Asuncion un bureau de la CIA !!! Ni plus ni moins... Ils s'installent dans le pays. A termes, ils contrôleront les banques (des comptes de Ben-Laden ont été retrouvés dans certaines banques du pays), le transit frontalier et évidemment le pétrole blanc: l'eau, dont le Paraguay a une des plus importantes réserves naturelles du monde (l'or de demain).
Et quand est-il pour le peuple?... Pas grand chose, celui-ci espère naïvemant un plus en terme de sécurité. Le président au pouvoir Nicanor qui vient, il y a quelques jours, sans aucun problème, de bafouer la constitution du pays en étant président de la république et, ce qui est interdit, se faire élire président de son parti (le parti Colorado). Durant cette élection, 100% des paraguayens ont votés, car tous sont inscrits au parti, avec ou sans leurs accord. Les absents, comme les morts votent?!?
Les Etats Unis, en échange de leur présence militaire, et de la main mise sur le pétrole et l'eau du pays, laisseront donc le pouvoir en place, piller le pays, appauvrir le peuple, sous-éduquer les jeunes, voler, assassiner les journalistes béliqueux ou les opposant politiques... C'est ça l'Amérique !!!
Et pourtant, c'est un pays magnifique, avec des gens d'une trés grande gentillesse...
En fait, il souhaite controler la zone. La Colombie entretient des rapports "commerciaux" avec la Bolivie (dont le président a été élu par les cultivateurs de coca). Le cartel est installé dans la région, et toute la partie Nord du Paraguay est sans contrôle, car c'est une zone trés inospitalière (le Chaco). Cette partie du pays est aux mains des trafiquant, qui l'utilisent pour distribuer la drogue au Brésil et en Argentine... Le pouvoir en place trés corrompu, laisse faire. C'est une espèce d'accord de bon principe: "je te laisse utilisé le nord du Chaco pour ton bussiness et si j'ai besoin de protection, d'argent, de tueurs tu es là pour moi"...
Les américains ont faits comme tout le monde. Souhaitant savoir ce qu'il se passe, ils ont monayé leurs présence au Paraguay, officiellement pour créer une zone d'excice militaire, plus sûrement pour avoir un oeil sur le cartel (la drogue rapporte beaucoup d'argent en Amérique du Sud et du Nord...).
Le territoire qui leur a été attribué est proche des Trois Frontières Paraguay-Brésil-Argentine(ouest-centre). Ils mettent également en place à Asuncion un bureau de la CIA !!! Ni plus ni moins... Ils s'installent dans le pays. A termes, ils contrôleront les banques (des comptes de Ben-Laden ont été retrouvés dans certaines banques du pays), le transit frontalier et évidemment le pétrole blanc: l'eau, dont le Paraguay a une des plus importantes réserves naturelles du monde (l'or de demain).
Et quand est-il pour le peuple?... Pas grand chose, celui-ci espère naïvemant un plus en terme de sécurité. Le président au pouvoir Nicanor qui vient, il y a quelques jours, sans aucun problème, de bafouer la constitution du pays en étant président de la république et, ce qui est interdit, se faire élire président de son parti (le parti Colorado). Durant cette élection, 100% des paraguayens ont votés, car tous sont inscrits au parti, avec ou sans leurs accord. Les absents, comme les morts votent?!?
Les Etats Unis, en échange de leur présence militaire, et de la main mise sur le pétrole et l'eau du pays, laisseront donc le pouvoir en place, piller le pays, appauvrir le peuple, sous-éduquer les jeunes, voler, assassiner les journalistes béliqueux ou les opposant politiques... C'est ça l'Amérique !!!
Et pourtant, c'est un pays magnifique, avec des gens d'une trés grande gentillesse...
Merci yacare pour tes précisions...
Cependant, ta conclusion "c'est ça l'Amérique..." me paraît fortement teintée de défaitisme et de fatalisme. Or les derniers événements en Bolivie avec Morales, Chavez au vénézuela ou encore lula au Brésil, des élections fortement attendues au pérou et également au nicaragua, démontrent justement qu'un changement est possible. Les combats de Morales et de Chavez se basent sur un objectif commun: déprivatiser, nationaliser et donc se réapproprier leurs propres ressources (eau, gaz, pétrole, ...), Evo morales parle même de politique de décolonisation...
Il y a en tous cas beaucoup d'espoir que cette époque où les USA et l'occident appuyaient les dictatures en place (Chili, Argentine, Brésil, ...) dans le but de mieux profiter de leurs ressources et véritablement piller ce continent, fasse bientôt partie du passé... et que l'Amérique du sud (le peuple) puisse enfin aspirer à son indépendance, après plus de 500 ans de résistance et d'insoumission.
Cependant, ta conclusion "c'est ça l'Amérique..." me paraît fortement teintée de défaitisme et de fatalisme. Or les derniers événements en Bolivie avec Morales, Chavez au vénézuela ou encore lula au Brésil, des élections fortement attendues au pérou et également au nicaragua, démontrent justement qu'un changement est possible. Les combats de Morales et de Chavez se basent sur un objectif commun: déprivatiser, nationaliser et donc se réapproprier leurs propres ressources (eau, gaz, pétrole, ...), Evo morales parle même de politique de décolonisation...
Il y a en tous cas beaucoup d'espoir que cette époque où les USA et l'occident appuyaient les dictatures en place (Chili, Argentine, Brésil, ...) dans le but de mieux profiter de leurs ressources et véritablement piller ce continent, fasse bientôt partie du passé... et que l'Amérique du sud (le peuple) puisse enfin aspirer à son indépendance, après plus de 500 ans de résistance et d'insoumission.
Moi je ne suis pas uruguayen donc si il y a une ville thermale ou seuls les uruguayens peuvent entre tant pis pour moi par contre il existe les thermes de Salto ou tout le monde peut entrer....
A part ça il est vrai que les bresiliens et les argentins ont un orgueil impressionant ce qui n'est pas le cas des uruguayens ou des paraguayens que je connais.
Sinon des paraguayens m'ont parlés d'un traité entre le Paraguay et la Colombie qui dit que les colombiens ont la possibilité d'obtenir la nationalité paraguayenne directement des l'entrée au Paraguay et vice versa. En gros "los colombianos son paraguayos y los paraguayos son colombianos". C'est vrai ?
Cela tiens de la légende... Il n'y a pas de lien fort entre le Paraguay et la Colombie (autre que mafieuse). Pour les paraguayens: leurs frères sont les uruguayens.
Ce que va donner le gouvernement de Morales va étre intéressant. Ceci dit l'histoire nous dit que les gouvernements d'extrème gauche comme celui de la Bolivie n'ont jamais donné de bon résultats...
Il est vrai qu'il y a une animosité de toute l'amérique du Sud envers les Etats Unis, mais ils ont également conscience qu'ils en sont encore dépendants.
Le pays le plus intéressant politiquement parlant, de par sa force économique, et sa richesse est le Brésil (le Chili étant encore trés US). Lula, mais s'il n'est pas parfait, prend des décisions courageuses.
Mais de toute manière, les démocraties trés jeunes en Amérique du Sud ont encore le temps d'évoluer.
Mais de toute manière, les démocraties trés jeunes en Amérique du Sud ont encore le temps d'évoluer.
Salut à tous,
Je reviens tout juste du Paraguay. Si vous voulez avoir des infos fraiches n'ésiter à me contacter (politique, climat, taux de change, sécurité...).
w
Je reviens tout juste du Paraguay. Si vous voulez avoir des infos fraiches n'ésiter à me contacter (politique, climat, taux de change, sécurité...).
w
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More discussions
Hi everyone! I’m heading to Colombia in January 2026 and have a few questions. In Salento, which is better to do—Cocora Valley or Carbonera Valley? After that, I want to fly from Medellín to Rincón del Mar. Is there an airport in Tolú? I can’t find any info. Thanks in advance, and *buen viajé* to all! Kristian
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?
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! 🙂
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! 🙂
Hello hello
It's decided—2027 will be Brazil, in the summer (unless you advise against it 😕). From what I’ve read, the weather’s okay, even if it’s a bit chilly for swimming. We’re going, as always, as a group of four, with our teens. 🙂
We’d be looking at a solid two weeks, at least 14 days on the ground. I’m planning way ahead to nail down an itinerary and book our flight tickets (the prices I’m seeing already are freaking me out…).
From my research, I’ve come across some classic routes: Rio/Iguazu/Paraty/Ilha Grande. Roughly: 4 days in Rio, 2 in Iguazu, 2 in Paraty, and 3 on Ilha Verde. That’d leave us one more stop on the trip.
Since we like to end with a "chill" stop for the kids,
My questions: - Is Ilha Verde worth it this time of year? I’ve read that swimming might not be an option—water’s too cold… So not ideal for a chill/relaxing destination? - How should we round out the trip in the South? São Paulo? Another stop along the Costa Verde? - Wouldn’t it make more sense to head up to the Northeast, where it’s warmer, like Salvador de Bahia?
But Salvador raises other questions: - Are there flights from Iguazu to Salvador? - And for the return to France, would we have to connect through Rio or São Paulo from Salvador? - Any suggestions for places to stay around Salvador?
Thanks for your input—I’m sure I’ll have more questions as I go along. 😉
It's decided—2027 will be Brazil, in the summer (unless you advise against it 😕). From what I’ve read, the weather’s okay, even if it’s a bit chilly for swimming. We’re going, as always, as a group of four, with our teens. 🙂
We’d be looking at a solid two weeks, at least 14 days on the ground. I’m planning way ahead to nail down an itinerary and book our flight tickets (the prices I’m seeing already are freaking me out…).
From my research, I’ve come across some classic routes: Rio/Iguazu/Paraty/Ilha Grande. Roughly: 4 days in Rio, 2 in Iguazu, 2 in Paraty, and 3 on Ilha Verde. That’d leave us one more stop on the trip.
Since we like to end with a "chill" stop for the kids,
My questions: - Is Ilha Verde worth it this time of year? I’ve read that swimming might not be an option—water’s too cold… So not ideal for a chill/relaxing destination? - How should we round out the trip in the South? São Paulo? Another stop along the Costa Verde? - Wouldn’t it make more sense to head up to the Northeast, where it’s warmer, like Salvador de Bahia?
But Salvador raises other questions: - Are there flights from Iguazu to Salvador? - And for the return to France, would we have to connect through Rio or São Paulo from Salvador? - Any suggestions for places to stay around Salvador?
Thanks for your input—I’m sure I’ll have more questions as I go along. 😉
Hi there, we’ve decided to head to Brazil at the end of March for 2.5 weeks with our 13-year-old son. From what I’ve gathered from some research, Rio seems like a great destination at this time of year, and I’m thinking around 4-5 days to explore it—does that sound right to you? Copacabana, Ipanema, Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, maybe a favela tour, or any other ideas?
How’s the best way to get around locally? I’ve heard about Bonito or Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande—what do you think of those? Fernando de Noronha for snorkeling or even diving? Is Recife a good option at this time of year?
If you’ve got any suggestions, we’re all ears—it’s for our 50th birthdays! :-) Thanks so much for your help and tips. See you soon.
How’s the best way to get around locally? I’ve heard about Bonito or Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande—what do you think of those? Fernando de Noronha for snorkeling or even diving? Is Recife a good option at this time of year?
If you’ve got any suggestions, we’re all ears—it’s for our 50th birthdays! :-) Thanks so much for your help and tips. See you soon.
Hi there, I’m looking for recent info on a boat trip with sleeping accommodations from Belém to Santarém. I don’t want a "luxury cruise for wealthy tourists"—just a bed with a minimum of comfort seems great to me🙂. I didn’t find any up-to-date details with Amazon Star. Do you have any companies, guides, or prices for this route to recommend?
I’d love to hear tips and feedback on this trip, especially since I’m traveling solo. I’d like to get a sense of what to expect and ensure some basic safety with transportation.
Thanks.
Hi everyone,
We’re planning 40 days in Uruguay and Argentina in February and March, trying to avoid as much rain as possible.
We’re thinking of starting in Buenos Aires, then heading to Bariloche, and from there flying to Córdoba, Mendoza, or Salta. Maybe by bus or renting a car to explore each region.
Do you have any suggestions or tips for us? We love picturesque, historic cities and landscapes. As seasoned travelers, we’re used to planning our trips ourselves.
Thanks in advance!
Hi,
We’ve planned our road trip in Chile, and the only thing left is to book the TABSA ferry from Punta Arenas to Puerto Williams. Problem: the ferry that leaves Punta Arenas at 1 AM isn’t available for booking, no matter the day or month. All the other departures can be booked, though. On top of that, Tabsa isn’t responding to any messages.
Does anyone know more about this?
Thanks in advance. Anne Marie
We’ve planned our road trip in Chile, and the only thing left is to book the TABSA ferry from Punta Arenas to Puerto Williams. Problem: the ferry that leaves Punta Arenas at 1 AM isn’t available for booking, no matter the day or month. All the other departures can be booked, though. On top of that, Tabsa isn’t responding to any messages.
Does anyone know more about this?
Thanks in advance. Anne Marie
Hi everyone,
We’re planning to explore Peru’s main highlights and were wondering if anyone could share insights on the quality and comfort of overnight buses. If so, which bus company should we trust?
Thanks for your replies and suggestions
We’re planning to explore Peru’s main highlights and were wondering if anyone could share insights on the quality and comfort of overnight buses. If so, which bus company should we trust?
Thanks for your replies and suggestions
Hi,
My wife and I are heading to Brazil from November 6th to December 2nd. We’ll be stopping in São Paulo, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Rio, and Salvador de Bahia.
Could you recommend some nice, non-luxury places to stay in each of these spots?
Also, any suggestions for places to visit would be great.
Thanks in advance for your help!
Marc
Hi there.
I already posted a message asking for advice about our upcoming trip to Chile.
Details: Getting around by bus or train.
Starting from Valparaiso, heading north, passing through cities and places to visit, then returning to Santiago via a different route.
Avoid the beaches...
Thanks
Looking for a car with a French-speaking driver for late January/February
Hello,
my wife and I will be in Cusco for a week in March 2027.
I’d like to organize the visit to the site on our own, combining the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
We’d leave Cusco on Day 1 to arrive at the site in the morning, then stay in Aguas Calientes or Ollantaytambo, and on Day 2 return to Cusco while visiting the Sacred Valley.
Is this doable?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hello,
We’re spending 3 weeks in Rio between February 20 and March 15, 2027, to visit our son and daughter-in-law. We’re thinking of one or two "escapes" from Rio—3-day trips to get away from the city (so not too far, max 3–4 hours by car or bus). We’re all ears for suggestions! We love beautiful nature and authentic experiences, not so much the touristy spots... even though those spots are often in beautiful places, we’d rather avoid them.
Thanks for your insights!
Catherine
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:
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,
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,
We’re thinking of spending 1 month in Chile, maybe doing a loop?
From 12/23 to 01/22.
What are the must-see sights, given we’re more interested in the country’s cultural side than the beaches?
Thanks
Hi everyone,
We're planning a trip to southern Chile in November. Here's our tentative itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago, then a flight the next day to Balmaceda where we'll pick up a rental car to reach Coyhaique.
Day 3: Walk in the Coyhaique National Reserve, then continue to Puerto Chacabuco. Return to Coyhaique for the second night.
Day 4: Drive to Villa Cerro Castillo for a hike in the national park. Continue to Puerto Tranquilo and stay there for 3 nights.
Day 5: Boat tour on Laguna San Rafael.
Day 6: Day trip to Monte San Valentin Glacier.
Day 7: Excursion to the Marble Chapels, then drive to Puerto Guadal. We'll stay there for 3 nights.
Day 8: Walk along Lago Carrera and return to Puerto Guadal.
Day 9: Rio Baker Valley and, if possible, a glacier excursion.
Day 10: Drive to Cochrane and hike in Tamango National Reserve. We'll stay 2 nights in Cochrane.
Day 11: Walk in the Chacabuco Valley.
Day 12: Drive to Caleta Tortel. We'll stay there for 2 nights.
Day 13: Cruise in the Rio Baker delta.
Day 14: Return to Cochrane.
Day 15: Return to Balmaceda in two stages.
Day 16: Continue the return journey.
Day 17: Return the rental car and head back to Santiago.
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
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 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.