Traveling to any part of the world brings excitement, a bit of anxiety, and plenty of questions— and Latin America is no exception. The more prepared you are, the more rewarding and immersive your experience will be. This guide will help you plan your trip in more detail so you can enjoy every moment of the journey.
Every destination is unique. We invite you to travel consciously through Mainland Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands, Bolivia, Peru, and Colombia.
WEATHER 
Weather here is highly variable. Though there are two main seasons — summer and winter — you might experience both in a single day. On a city tour, you could start with sunshine and end with rain. The same happens when you go for a hike, but in the mountains, it gets cooler, with temperatures ranging from 6º to 10ºC (43º to 50ºF). In the Amazon, it’s hot, humid, and mostly rainy year-round, with temperatures between 25º and 32ºC (77º to 89ºF).
Pack layers — you’ll need them for highlands and jungle alike. Also consider packing a waterproof jacket, a sunhat, sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent and thin pants/long sleeves if you are going to the Amazon, and quick-dry clothes — they’ll serve you well in all regions.
From December to May, the weather and water are warmer. Between June and November, temperatures drop slightly and a light jacket comes in handy. Expect temperatures from 16º to 31ºC (62º to 88ºF). No matter the season, always bring sunscreen and a refillable water bottle.
Generally dry and cold, with temperatures from 5º to 14ºC (41º to 57ºF). Layering is key.
The altitude in Bolivia can have strong effects — bring altitude sickness medication if needed, and allow time to acclimate. Altitude medication can also be purchased from any pharmacy in Bolivia, but keep in mind that the pharmacists generally only speak Spanish, and the packaging will be in Spanish as well.
The climate is temperate with moderate rain and thermal swings. Average temperatures range from 4.4º to 19.6ºC (40º to 67ºF). April to October is the dry season. Machu Picchu is especially lush from November to March, though you’ll likely encounter rain. Like Ecuador, weather can change suddenly — bring layers.
If hiking, consider bringing walking poles, comfortable waterproof shoes, and a light daypack with essentials.
Extremely varied. Bogotá is cool and chilly, while Cartagena and Medellín are warm. Check the weather for each place along your route.
Mosquito protection is especially important in coastal and jungle areas. Insect repellent and thin pants/long-sleeved shirts are recommended for visiting these areas.
CONNECTIVITY
- Mainland Ecuador: Buy a local SIM card to improve coverage, especially in remote areas
- Galapagos Islands: Internet is limited, but many cruises offer reliable onboard Wi-Fi.
- Bolivia and Peru: Good quality connection in most areas.
- Colombia: Reliable in cities, more limited in rural areas.
BE AWARE
Every region offers different foods, accents, music, and colors in nature. Locals are kind and welcoming, especially when you show interest in their culture.
Learn about Pachamama (Mother Earth), a concept deeply respected by locals and especially indigenous communities.
Bring cash (US dollars) — you’ll need it in small towns.
Always follow your guide’s rules, especially: never touch the animals. Part of the islands’ magic is how wildlife coexists freely with humans — with no intrusion. Move slowly and quietly to observe and take photos without disturbing them. Expect the unexpected — it’s a natural laboratory, not a zoo. Cruises allow you to visit more islands, see more wildlife, and save time.
REMEMBER: don’t remove anything from nature — not even a shell. Bring cash for the Transit Control Card (TCT) and National Park entrance fee.
Bring cash, especially in small towns — US dollars are accepted in most places. Travel takes time, so embrace the pace and enjoy the ride. Don’t forget sunblock, sunglasses, lip balm, a jacket, and plenty of water. Hydration is essential, especially for the high altitudes in Bolivia. Take a moment during your journey to appreciate the silence and what nature has to tell you — Bolivian culture, like much of the Andean region, is deeply spiritual and connected to nature.
Respect the sacred. Machu Picchu is not just a photo op — it’s a spiritual and cultural site. Arrive with reverence. Speak to elders — many Quechua grandparents hold ancestral wisdom not found in books. Carry cash, especially in rural areas, the use Peruvian Soles.
Let the music move you — in Colombia, you can even dance with your eyes. Don’t overthink it — just feel. Listen with an open heart; many locals will share stories of transformation and resilience. Colombia is a land of smiles, rhythm, tropical beauty, and boundless diversity.
What about Safety?
Yes, you may hear stories about safety concerns, but Latin America is incredibly diverse — and experiences vary widely. Always follow your guide’s instructions, stay aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings secure in crowded areas. Like anywhere in the world, caution and common sense go a long way.
Local food completes the experience
Each region offers its own traditional dishes and drinks, often tied to the seasons and local festivals. It’s a rich culinary heritage passed down through generations — rooted in ancestral knowledge and the bounty of the land.
As you can see. Latin America isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place to truly experience. Every country is its own adventure, and each one deserves more than your footsteps — it deserves your full attention and open heart