Before You Depart

South American Highlights

Aerial view of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, highlighting the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, overlooking the South American cityscape, coastal waters, and surrounding mountain peaks under a partly cloudy sky.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

The high altitude reached on this trip (Cuzco is at 11,000 feet above sea level) as well as the considerable amount of walking involved, often on uneven terrain, requires that you be in good physical condition to enjoy this trip. We strongly suggest that you consult with your physician regarding any concerns as well as possible medications to ease the effects of the high altitude.

 

PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION

You must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel.

U.S. citizens do not require a visa to enter Brazil June 17, 2019 onwards. Non-U.S. citizens should check with the respective consulates of the countries on this tour for the most current visa requirements. Please note that visa procedures may change at any time. Please remember that it is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.

 

TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS

Final instructions, documents, and travel tips will be emailed to you 10–14 days before the scheduled start of your tour. If you have not received your final documents, please check your spam folder or contact smarTours.

 

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

You should consult your personal physician, local public health authorities or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as to their recommendations, including immunization for Yellow Fever.

 

CLIMATE

Peru, Argentina and Brazil are located in the Southern hemisphere so their seasons are the reverse seasons of the U.S. Spring is in September/October/November with daytime average temperatures in the 50s and 70s. Summer is December through February with daytime average temperatures in the 80s. Early fall is in March with daytime average temperatures in the 70s and April’s average temperatures in the 60s. In areas of higher elevations (Cusco, Machu Picchu), morning, late afternoon and evening temperatures will be considerably cooler. Overnight temperatures may lower by 10-20 degrees.

 

CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY

Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards. However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency or U.S. Dollars. Your hotels will be able to exchange cash to local currency. It is recommended that you bring along cash in small denominations.

 

BAGGAGE

Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage and one carry-on piece. Please check with the airline for the maximum weight and size for luggage. We recommend that you do not over-pack and that you take a variety of separates with climate and comfort in mind.