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My husband and I will be leaving for a RTW trip this fall, and South America is our first destination. We'll be there for approximately 5 months and tentatively plan to visit Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. I know you can access the Amazon from a number of these countries, and was wondering what, in your opinion, is the best way to experience it. By boat (I'm a little afraid I'll go stir crazy), at a jungle lodge, etc? And from what country would you venture into the Amazon? We'll be budget backpackers, so no fancy eco-lodge or anything like that.

Your advice is much appreciated (specific details even better). Thanks!

Hello,

South America has a lot of areas & options when it comes to experiencing the Amazon or rainforest. I backpacked in the area in 2005 and did two jungle trips, both in very basic conditions but extremely rewarding in that we didn't do a well established route teeming with other travelers. If you care to, you can take a look at my blog (the Peru and Ecuador sections) for details of my trips. My blog

Going to a lodge, you will most likely get more and better information. I prefer adventure over a set schedule, so I chose not to go in a large group.

I'm sure you'll have a great time whichever country you choose to go from. My advice is to spend some time choosing your guide and tour company to better your chances of getting the experience you want

Have fun, I wish it were me going to the Amazon again! It was abslotely amazing!!!

Kath

I'd visit a jungle lodge - visiting by boat just isn't the same experience.

Easiest to visit in either Ecuador, Peru or Bolivia. No point in going to Brazil's Amazon - takes so long to get to Manaus or Tefe.

Why Venezuela and not Colombia? Colombia is better than Venezuela in just about every way possible.

Travel South America Guides

Thanks for the advice. As for why Venezuela and not Colombia--we want to climb Mt. Roraima. We're shaping a lot of our trip around places we want to hike/climb, and Roraima is high on our list.

quote:

Colombia is better than Venezuela in just about every way possible.

This is not the first time that I have heard this. When I was in Colombia, travelers coming from Venezuela always said it too.