Our recommendations on the best travel books for South America
South America offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for adventurous travelers. From the mist-shrouded peaks of Machu Picchu in Peru to the pulsating rhythms of Rio de Janeiro's Carnival in Brazil, the continent is brimming with cultural and natural wonders. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Amazon rainforest, spotting colorful macaws and elusive jaguars, while food lovers can savor world-class cuisine in Buenos Aires or sample fresh ceviche in Lima. For a unique adventure, consider trekking across the otherworldly landscapes of Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat. Whether you're drawn to the colonial architecture of Cartagena, Colombia, or the breathtaking vistas of Patagonia in Chile and Argentina, a comprehensive travel guidebook can help you navigate the diverse attractions and plan the perfect South American journey.
Our Travel Book Recommendations - South America
Our Travel Book Recommendations - South America
Lonely Planet South America
Dive into your South American journey with the travel guidebook from Lonely Planet. This essential publisher offers a wealth of detailed and illuminating guides for nearly every region of this captivating continent. Whether you're dreaming of scaling the Andes or dancing the night away in Buenos Aires, Lonely Planet provides the insights you need. Budget-savvy explorers will find particular value in their "on-a-shoestring" series, perfectly crafted for students, backpackers, and frugal adventurers looking to maximize their experiences without emptying their wallets. Lonely Planet is our top recommendation for most destinations in South America.
The Rough Guide to South America
Another great travel guidebook series for South America comes from Rough Guides. The Rough Guide to South America on a Budget provides comprehensive coverage for independent travelers planning longer trips, with practical tips for backpackers and budget explorers who want to save money. It offers honest reviews, detailed maps, and cultural insights to help you plan adventures through diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. The guide covers popular destinations as well as off-the-beaten-path spots, with advice on experiencing each place affordably. Whether you're looking to trek the Inca Trail, cycle the Death Road in Bolivia, or explore the Amazon rainforest, this guidebook can help you navigate South America without breaking the bank. It includes practical information on transportation, accommodation, and food, along with insider tips for finding local hotspots.
Turn Right at Machu Picchu, by Mark Adams
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the mist-shrouded peaks of Peru in Turn Right at Machu Picchu. Mark Adams, a self-proclaimed armchair adventurer, trades his comfortable desk for treacherous mountain trails as he retraces the footsteps of the intrepid Hiram Bingham III. Despite his lack of hiking experience, Adams dares to recreate Bingham's historic 1911 expedition to the legendary lost city of Machu Picchu. With wit, humor, and vivid storytelling, Adams weaves together past and present, offering readers a captivating blend of historical insight and personal discovery. As you flip through the pages, you'll find yourself transported to this awe-inspiring ancient wonder, feeling the thrill of exploration and the magic of the Andes mountains coursing through your veins.
In Patagonia, by Bruce Chatwin
In Patagonia, Bruce Chatwin's masterpiece, revolutionized travel writing and captivated readers worldwide. This kaleidoscopic journey through South America's remote southern reaches weaves together a tapestry of eccentric characters, forgotten histories, and landscapes that border on the mythical. Chatwin's six-month odyssey spawned a series of vignettes that defy conventional structure, mirroring the dreamlike quality of his Patagonian adventures. His prose—at once lyrical and incisive—paints vivid portraits of both people and place, unearthing the region's layers of legend and reality. Chatwin's original style, marked by its fragmented narrative and keen observations, transports readers to a world where fact and fiction blur. In Patagonia stands not just as a travelogue, but as a compelling exploration of human nature set against an untamed backdrop. Click here for our full book review.
The Old Patagonian Express, by Paul Theroux
The Old Patagonian Express stands out as one of Paul Theroux's finest travelogues. In this book, the renowned travel writer chronicles his epic train journey from Massachusetts to the southernmost reaches of Argentina. Theroux's keen observations as usual center on the colorful local characters he encounters, each serving as a unique window into the regions he traverses. The result is a masterful blend of humor and cultural exploration that captivates readers from start to finish.
Road Fever, by Tim Cahill
Buckle up for a wild ride through the Americas in Tim Cahill's Road Fever. This adrenaline-pumping travelogue follows Cahill and his professional driving partner as they attempt to shatter the world record for the fastest journey from the southernmost point of South America to the northernmost tip of Alaska. While their breakneck pace leaves little time for cultural immersion, Cahill's razor-sharp wit and vivid prose transform this high-octane adventure into a thoroughly entertaining read. Though the duo's tires barely touch the ground in each country they cross, Cahill's keen observations and self-deprecating humor will keep you glued to the page. Road Fever is just one gem in Cahill's treasure trove of travel writing – we heartily recommend exploring more of his work for armchair adventurers and true explorers alike.