South America is probably the best place in the world for a road tripping adventure, and if you intend to visit several different countries during your South American Tour, one of the most economical and authentic ways to travel is by local bus.

Buses in Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil are clean, reliable, and priced to suit the local economy, and so you can go a long way on just a few dollars. Many long-distance buses run through the night, which are ideal for budget travellers who want to save money on hotel accommodations, but they are not particularly comfortable, and you may find yourself surrounded with snorers! Fortunately, most bus companies offer early morning departures too, and if you want to see the magnificent landscapes that South America has to offer, this should be your number #1 choice.

The 5am departure from Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile is a journey in itself. Active volcanoes, glistening salt lakes, local wildlife, and vast moonscape landscapes make it a very picturesque bus ride indeed.

Sadly, there are no photo stops on public buses in South America, and so like us, you’ll have to grab a few shots from the window. Here’s what our South America Road Trip looked like…