Central to South America
Classic Backpacking Route • 103 days
Earth Lodge
Free Cerveza
Border Crossing: Guatemala -> Belize
Have $20 USD ready for Belize entry fee. Exit tax $15 from Guatemala.
Get Cash Before You Go
ATM fees are higher in Belize and some rural areas have limited ATM access. Withdraw extra in Guatemala.
Belize is pricey!
Budget hostels fill up fast here. Book now to secure $25/night rate.
Nicaragua Budget Tip
Nicaragua is the cheapest country in Central America. Stock up on souvenirs here!
Bike Taxis: The Cheap Local Alternative
Travellers report local bike taxis (mototaxis) are a much cheaper alternative between towns. Negotiate the price beforehand and always pay with cash - typically $1-3 USD per ride.
Border Crossing: Colombia -> Ecuador
Rumichaca border can be slow. Have your Ecuador entry form ready online.
Ecuador Entry Form Required
Complete your Ecuador immigration form 72 hours before arrival to avoid delays.
Border Crossing: Ecuador -> Peru
Huaquillas/Tumbes border - keep valuables secure.
Border Crossing: Peru -> Bolivia
Desaguadero border - NO CARDS accepted. Need $30 USD cash per person.
Altitude Warning: La Paz
La Paz is at 3,640m. Take it easy on day 1, stay hydrated, and consider coca tea.
Central to South America
Classic Backpacking Route • 103 days
Earth Lodge
Free Cerveza
Border Crossing: Guatemala -> Belize
Have $20 USD ready for Belize entry fee. Exit tax $15 from Guatemala.
Get Cash Before You Go
ATM fees are higher in Belize and some rural areas have limited ATM access. Withdraw extra in Guatemala.
Belize is pricey!
Budget hostels fill up fast here. Book now to secure $25/night rate.
Nicaragua Budget Tip
Nicaragua is the cheapest country in Central America. Stock up on souvenirs here!
Bike Taxis: The Cheap Local Alternative
Travellers report local bike taxis (mototaxis) are a much cheaper alternative between towns. Negotiate the price beforehand and always pay with cash - typically $1-3 USD per ride.
Border Crossing: Colombia -> Ecuador
Rumichaca border can be slow. Have your Ecuador entry form ready online.
Ecuador Entry Form Required
Complete your Ecuador immigration form 72 hours before arrival to avoid delays.
Border Crossing: Ecuador -> Peru
Huaquillas/Tumbes border - keep valuables secure.
Border Crossing: Peru -> Bolivia
Desaguadero border - NO CARDS accepted. Need $30 USD cash per person.
Altitude Warning: La Paz
La Paz is at 3,640m. Take it easy on day 1, stay hydrated, and consider coca tea.