South America

South America has long been a favourite destination for gappers and career breakers wanting to travel, volunteer or teach English. Famous for its natural wonders, lively people and one or two reasonable football teams, the continent continues to draw travellers and volunteers wanting to experience this exotic land.

• What?
• Why?
• How?
• Facts for the career breaker
• Top South America tip

What?

South America is made up of the following countries:

It also includes French Guiana, and our very own (for now) Falkland Islands.

Why?

A lot of volunteer opportunities are available in South America. Conservation projects operate throughout the continent, where volunteers work to save habitats and also carry out scientific research. Conservation is also linked with community development and education, so placements can involve working with people as much as plants and animals.

Teaching English is also a viable option for career breakers in South America. This can be done as paid work or as a volunteer. There is a demand for English teachers for businesses in many of the large cities - wages vary according to where you go.

South America also offers a lot to the traveller. There are the instantly-recognisable sites of Machu Picchu, Angel Falls and the Christ the Redeemer statue and areas of outstanding natural beauty, from Argentina's mountains to the Amazonian rainforest - and of course, the Galapagos islands. Travellers also visit South America because of its friendly people and vibrant culture.

How and when?

South America is on many round-the-world routes, although you often have to choose between this and North America on your round-the-world ticket. Theoretically, getting around is not particularly difficult, but you will have to plan your route carefully to make sure you see everything you want to see. Flights across the continent are the quickest way to travel about, although many backpackers use coaches.

Seasons vary from country to country but generally the dry season is between May or June to October.

Facts for the career breaker

• As in many parts of the world, looking as local as you can and learning some of the language will make your trip a lot easier.
• Crime is high in many parts of South America. Be vigilant, don't look rich and don't go wandering off into the slums or down deserted streets. Read your guidebook, and take advice from locals and experienced travellers.
• The only area of South America on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office's 'no go' list are parts of Colombia. For more information, go to www.fco.gov.uk (and sign up to their free updates if you like).
• As in other destinations, responsible travel is important when you visit South America, both with respect to the environment and the people.
• Carnival (spelt Carnaval in Portuguese) is celebrated throughout South America. It marks the beginning of Lent, starting on Saturday and finishing on Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras), and is a whole heap of fun.

Top South America tip

Take money in 3 different forms (cards, cash and travellers' cheques), especially if you're going somewhere remote, as you may find that your plastic isn't accepted, or there's a hefty fee.

Now where?