The Ultimate RV Adventure. 15 countries in 4 months!

Giant Hand in the Desert - Chile

4x4 Not necessary - unless you go where you shouldn't go!....

El Tajin, Mexico  We visit these Ancient Ruins and see  "Voladores" decend from the high pole.

Peru - Machu Picchu - The #1 Tourist Destination in the World.

Peru - Nazca Lines Museum, we camp in front of this UNESCO historical site.

Chile - Many parades.  This one in front of our camp in the town of Arica, Chile's northernmost city.

Burrrr!  not all of the trek is tropical, this is a shot at the Chile/Argentina border at the top of the mountain pass.

The very title of this expedition conjures up images of adventure, exploration and new experiences. Add to this equation, twenty travelers in ten RVs and what you come up with is the only RV Expedition to 16 Latin American Countries. In 1996 this expedition started a new era for Adventuretours when South America was added to our travel itinerary. It now attracts a very special group of "Travelers"..conquering the PAN AMERICAN HIGHWAY!

MEXICO & CENTRAL AMERICA
On this expedition, we concentrate on spending our time visiting South America.  Because of this, we rush through Mexico and Central America as quickly as possible. After fifteen days travel we arrive in Panama to load our vehicles on a cargo ship to Colombia.

2015 Update: Scouting trip “Roads are good, and the Ferry is running from Panama to Colombia - saving our members about $3,000 -$4000 in shipping fees.

COLOMBIA
A 40-year insurgent campaign to overthrow the Colombian Government escalated during the 1990s, supported in part by funds from the drug trade. Although the violence was deadly and large swaths of the countryside were under guerrilla influence, the movement lacked the military strength or popular support necessary to overthrow the government.

We visited Columbia every year from 2001 to 2005.  Logistic issues kept us from returning until 2010 which was a shame because Colombia’s people, climate, and beauty is unsurpassed!  Now is THE FAVORITE of most of our Trekers!!

ECUADOR
Advanced indigenous cultures flourished in Ecuador long before the area was conquered by the Inca empire in the 15th century. In 1534, the Spanish arrived and defeated the Inca armies.
Today, Ecuador has the cheapest fuel at about US$1/gallon in 2014.
Ecuador has the largest indigenous culture of all the South American countries we visit.
The condition of the highways is excellent and the scenery is beautiful. Ecuador hosts the highest mountains along the Pan American Highway.
The climate near the capital city of Quito is very cool and comfortable, an excellent way to celebrate crossing over the center of the world into the southern hemisphere.

PERU
Ancient Peru was the seat of several prominent Andean civilizations, most notably that of the Incas whose empire was captured by the Spanish conquistadors in 1533.
After a dozen years of military rule, Peru returned to democratic leadership in 1980, but experienced economic problems and the growth of a violent insurgency. President Alberto Fugimori's election in 1990 ushered in a decade that saw a dramatic turnaround in the economy and significant progress in curtailing guerrilla activity. Nevertheless, the president's increasing reliance on authoritarian measures and an economic slump in the late 1990s generated mounting dissatisfaction with his regime. Fugimori won reelection to a third term in the spring of 2000, but international pressure and corruption scandals caused him to resign in November of that year.

Arequipa - Colca Valley
Widely known as the "Ciudad Blanca" (White City) for its beautiful colonial homes, churches and monasteries constructed of a white volcanic stone - sillar - that is unique to the zone. The city center, which was recognized by the UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site, is surrounded by a beautiful countryside. You may also visit the nearby Colca Valley and Colca Canyon, Valley of the Volcanoes, natural areas as Salinas and Aguada Blanca and the Mejia Lagoons. Arequipa is an ideal destination for those interested in colonial architecture, living culture and in spectacular outdoor natural beauty, biodiversity and outdoor adventure.

Cuzco - Machu Picchu - Inca Trail 
"The Archaeological Capital of America"; it constitutes the biggest tourist attractiveness in Peru, and the most visited one. Cuzco, was the biggest city and capital of the Inca Empire and then taken by the Spanish conquerors; today it has an architecture that fuses the Inca with the Spanish style. Their town conserves with pride its customs and traditions. It is also the forced step to know the mystic and enigmatic sacred citadel of the Inca Machu Picchu that the Spaniards never knew and was discovered by the occidental culture in 1911. Cuzco, as Machu Picchu, for its historical value, and for its beauty is considered Cultural World Heritage Sites. The Sacred Valley of the Incas, beautiful places and the Inca Trail are waiting for you. We visit Cuzco via fly out from Lima, because of the roads, and limited access of the town of Cusco.

CHILE
A three-year-old Marxist government was overthrown in 1973 by a dictatorial military regime led by Augusto Pinochet, which ruled until a freely elected president took control in 1990.

Sound economic policies, first implemented by the Pinochet dictatorship, led to unprecedented growth from 1991-97 and have helped secure the country's commitment to democratic and representative government. Growth slowed in 1998-99, but recovered strongly in 2000.

Considering Chile’s position on the globe, the seasons are opposite to the ones in North America or Europe. The climate in Greater Santiago is similar to the Mediterranean. In the winter – mid of May until August – you have the rainy season, where temperatures vary greatly (at night temperatures drop to freezing point, during the day from 10 to 25 °C). Most of the apartments and offices do not have central heating, therefore make sure to bring warm clothes. During summer - November to March – it is dry and hot (on average 30°C, at noon up to 35°C), at night it cools down, there is practically no rain.

Compared to other Latin American countries Chile is not a cheap country. Nevertheless, most of the main groceries, services, public transport, bus tours and simple restaurants are cheaper than at home. Fruit and vegetables are a lot cheaper, especially when sold on the street. Industrial goods are mostly imported and therefore more expensive than in Europe or North America.

ARGENTINA 
Argentina is the second-largest country in South America (after Brazil). Its people are a fusion of diverse national and ethnic groups, with descendants of Italian and Spanish immigrants predominant.

Following independence from Spain in 1816, Argentina experienced periods of internal political conflict between conservatives and liberals and between civilian and military factions.  After World War II, a long period of Peronist authoritarian rule and interference in subsequent governments was followed by a military junta that took power in 1976.  Democracy returned in 1983, and numerous elections since then have underscored Argentina's progress in democratic consolidation.

Argentina is the 8th largest country in the world and it offers a lot of amazing highlights and experiences which are unique in the world.

In Argentina you can appreciate the power of the widest falls on Earth, Iguazu Falls, which is one of the finalists in the "Seven Wonders of the World" contest.

You will be able to admire the natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia, where you can also climb the imposing Perito Moreno Glacier or enrich your adventurous spirits enjoying unique experiences in the southernmost city in the world: Ushuaia.

When its time to relax, in Buenos Aires you can experience a night of passion, beauty and sensuality; a night of dancing in one of the best tango venues in the world; or enjoy some first-class wines at Mendoza's world prized wineries (Argentina is the fifth largest wine producer in the world). You have access to countless exciting tours to enjoy while in Argentina.

In Ushuaia, we camp in the southernmost campground in the world, you can golf on the southernmost golf course in the world, and you can ride the southernmost train in the world.

URUGUAY
A violent Marxist urban guerrilla movement, the Tupamaros, launched in the late 1960s, led Uruguay's president to agree to military control of his administration in 1973. By the end of the year the rebels had been crushed, but the military continued to expand its hold throughout the government. Civilian rule was not restored until 1985. Uruguay's political and labor conditions are among the freest on the continent.

Uruguay possesses one of the most educated, socially conscious cultures in Latin America. Its historical concern for human development, even in the face of political and military adversity, has enabled it to become an enlightened, open-minded center of learning and peaceful relations. Like most other countries, however, Uruguay's educational system is in need of continual upgrading, most notably in the areas of physical facilities and technology. No doubt its high literacy rate and its commitment to self-improvement will help it overcome problems presented by lack of resources.

In short, South America's smallest country leads its neighbors in progressive thinking and educational reform. The quality of life enjoyed by Uruguayans is a reflection of its classroom achievements and its diverse cultural heritage.

We will enjoy the hospitality of its people and the rural area of the country. Lots of municipal camping, rural tourism and the endless passing of classic automobiles on the roadways.  Uruguay also offers great fishing, hot springs and food. Birding is very productive in Uruguay as well.

BRAZIL 

AS A GROUP WE JUST VISIT THE MOST SOUTHERN STATE WITH THE BORDER WITH URUGUAY, TRIPS TO INTERIOR CITIES OF RIO de JANEIRO, AND THE AMAZON ARE POSSIBLE VIA AIR, WHILE WE AWAIT SHIPPING. 

Crossing the Equador!  The only way you will really know "What direction the water flows" when you flush the toilet or drain the sink - You can't do this with any other type of tourism - Only in a RV!!!

We are sometimes the TOURIST ATTRACTION! We interchange with a Rural School in Uruguay, meet the teachers and students, and always try to brings some books or pencils to leave with them.

Itinerary: NOTE Itinerary changes for 2024/25 will be announced

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Day 1-3 - McAllen, Texas - Rendezvous
Day 4-5 - Mexico Gulf Coast - Transit - Tampico, Veracruz
Day 6 - Isthmus of Tehuantepec - Transit
Day 7-8 - Guatemala - Transit - Hot Springs Resort
Day 9 - El Salvador - Transit - San Salvador
Day 10 - Honduras - Transit - Choluteca
Day 11-13 - Nicaragua - Transit - Granada
Day 14 - Costa Rica - Transit - San Jose
Day 15-27 - Panama - Transit - David, Panama City
Day 28 - Shipping Panama-Colombia
Day 29-34 - Colombia
Day 35-40 - Ecuador
Day 41-48 - Peru
Day 49-52 - Chile - North Desert - Lima
Day 53-57 - Chile - Atacama Desert, La Sirena, Los Vilos, Vina del Mar, Santiago, Chillan, Osorno
Day 58-72 - Argentina - Bariloche, Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego, Valdes Peninsula, Buenos Aires
Day 73-80 - Uruguay/Paraguay - Colonia, Punta del Este
Day 80-119 - Extra Time to do optional fly out tours in Brazil  ..many options

This itinerary is for reference purposes only. It is not final. All itineraries and schedules are subject to change without prior notice, before or during the trip by Adventuretours.

Price Includes:

All Camping Fees
Visa Processing (fees extra)
Advance Route Scouting
The Adventurelog Routing/map
Border Crossing Assistance
Assist with side-tour arrangements
Tri-Lingual experienced Staff Member

Vehicle Requirements:

The following guidelines are required for “Trek of the Americas” Expedition
33’ or less in length (required). Note: A maximum of 2 oversized units may be permitted on this trek - check.
Good ground clearance (important not to have long rear overhang or bumpers).
Top mechanical shape.
New tires (we recommend buying Bridgestone ® brand tires)
Potable water purifier, we suggest Nature-pure ® by General Ecology.
Transmission Cooler & Oil Cooler
Inverter (12v/AC), Generator (optional)
Solar Panel for battery charging (no electricity hook ups on this trip).
Diesel is the preferred fuel (by not required)  

A short story by Mark:
Camping Mexico, Central, and South America by RV (1995 LANCE LEGEND/CHEV DIESEL 2500)
by Mark English
For virtually any adventurous RV’er -- touring the tropics in one’s own unit is a dream- especially when the designation is South America! - It’s not a “dream” anymore -- this past August our RV Expedition departed southbound from McAllen, TX. - It was Trek of the Americas. Adventuretours (www.adventuretrek.com ) has previously done these expeditions since 1996 (starting scouting in 1993).
Two days prior to departure the participants gathered and had the units re-checked by Adventuretours Staff.  It had been an awaited time- but there were still “last minute” items that were over looked and made those last 2 days went fast!
The RV’er should be reassured when, the expedition staff inspects the RV.  This will save inconveniences during the trip. It is very important to be sure you have the proper equipment and spare parts (later in the journey you will see why)?  You also may be asked to complete a product survey form, if you were given a RV product for testing, and, of course, you can keep the product!  Bridgestone Tires, Camco Manufacturing, Thetford, Carefree, Nature Pure, are some of the manufacturers we do product testing for.
After all the reviews, inspections, checks and re checks, paperwork, insurance we were finally at the border with Mexico (our first frontier!).  The early morning crossing was a breeze- we had pre-done our paperwork!  The group passed through the city of Reynosa, Tamps. Mexico in the pre-dawn hours (before heavy traffic) and we were quickly enroute on the “open road”  southbound past the northern Tamaulipas farmlands.
On the first night on the Gulf Coast Beach we watched the Dolphins when a Mexican man and his family drove up in their VW Bug ran out and quickly raised the front “hood”- We ran over to see the problem- only to find a very huge crab stuck down in a crevice with the electrical wire in his claws.  We assisted our newly made Mexican friend, and in 20 minutes or so, had the giant crab removed and crawling back toward the Gulf of Mexico! 
For most of the group, Mexico was “old stuff” but the area was still enjoyed as we quickly past through the Gulf Coast, Veracruz, and into the State of Oaxaca where crossing to the Pacific over the Isthmus!  Many of the old broken-up highways of Mexico have been improved but there were still some “Mucho Rougho” areas.
Different types of people and geographical changes are obvious upon the crossing into Guatemala, Central America.  Most noted are the Mayan Indians, and the beautiful green jungle growth in the mountains after the border crossing. The culture was so different than what had been seen in Mexico.  
The border crossings into Central American countries are unique experiences.  There are numerous “steps” to be followed, and must be done ‘in order’, which the trip leader will handle.  It can be very interesting to sit back and observe all the border activities, tourism, and the different commerce that takes place.  
After finishing with the border crossing, we visited our first hot springs resort, located about 200 miles into Guatemala.  It has natural hot water, heated from the nearby volcano, and fed by underground rivers to the camp.
So much for those luxuries (hot pools, Jacuzzi, and deluxe seafood restaurants), little time will be spent in Central America - we must continue ahead to meet our shipping date, in Panama, to Peru, South America.
After Guatemala, the Pan American Highway is followed to El Salvador.  Here the routing follows the Pacific Coast, with some of the most picturesque seascapes to be seen.  A surprise enroute gastronomic experience was the oceanfront encounter with the world’s best tasting fish: Corvina.  
Just a couple of hours through the country of Honduras, and into Nicaragua.  The most noticeable natural wonder of this country was the 100 mile long Lake Nicaragua, which we traveled parallel to on the Pan American Highway.
Costa Rica was next, with some very beautiful natural landscapes, however if you have a encounter with the Traffic Police, it can soured the beauty of the country.  You must watch for the radar police at all times.  We shopped the shopping center in San Jose, and enjoyed  a very good pizza, at Pizza Hut which served CocaCola, instead of Pepsi.
The last Central American country, Panama, was a pleasant driving experience.  Unlike the rough roads of Costa Rica, Panama has very good concrete highways.  One notable place on the Pan Am, was in central Panama, where a airport runway, actually crosses the Pan American Highway.  Gates are lower to stop traffic during aircraft landings!
We stayed on the former American Military Base in Panama, now operated by the Panama government.  The old officers’club swimming pool was still very refreshing in the tropical climate.  Bird watching is also very good at this location.
Arrangements for the ship crossing to South America had been previously done, but we were required to get our RV’s inspected. Lots of paperwork, police clearance, by a very helpful Chinese Customs Broker, named Heidi. We finally conformed to the requirements for international disembarkation into South America.
After crossing the Panama Canal on the Bridge of the Americas, we traveled to the Port of Cristobal, where the vehicles were placed on the roll-on ship to Peru.  We then were off to the airport to fly to Panama.
Some of the group went directly to Lima, Peru, while others went to Ecuador.  This was also the time to visit Cusco, and Macha Picchu.  The Peruivian climate was cool, and the sun did not appear in the capital city of Lima.  A change from sunny Panama!  
The motorhomes and campers arrived in Lima about 5 days after we arrived and it took a couple of days to get the paperwork from the port finished.  We were now on our way (with a full-police escort through the city of Lima) , southbound on the Pan American highway!  Quite a special feeling realizing that you are actually driving your RV in South America!!

Price: $18,950 p/unit (1-2 persons)
Departure Date: July 25th - August 25th, annually 
Extra persons: Add $2,000 each
Deposit: $3,000 - Space is limited, only those with deposits will have confirmed reservations.  No verbal reservations.
Balance due by May 25th. 
Deposit refundable up to 60 days prior to departure, minus $500 cancelation fee. 
No discounts apply.
6 unit maximum. Reserve early for space. First come - first served.
Space will be held with paid reservation only.
30 foot maximum vehicle length, 2 trailers allowed.
PETS - Special Permission.

Projected Expenses:
Expect to spend from US $30,000 to US $35,000 during the trip. These approximate fixed expenses are based on a 24-foot long vehicle valued at US$40,000 with 2 occupants.

Expedition Information:
Keep in mind, since this is an expedition, it will not be a refined trip like our other tours. This trip is designed only for those individuals that are prepared to endure rugged travel conditions.
All expedition-members must be willing to expect the unexpected and agree to be very flexible with regard to itineraries and travel conditions. We will adapt to our camp locations as we go.

The expedition will be limited to ten tour-member RV’s, all under 33 feet in length. The cost of all tours and events will be in addition to the tour fee. We will advise you of different options available with regard to tours and side trips. When possible we will also assist with these tour arrangements through travel agencies and get the best price available for your side trips.

Expect no RV facilities with hookups at any point during the trip. Fresh water filling and holding tank dumping arrangements will be made.

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Trek Details