South American Handbook

Ben Box has been working on the South American Handbook for over 30 years and is a Latin America expert. Ben has contributed to newspapers, magazines and learned tomes, usually on the subject of travel, and has also been involved in Footprint's Central America & Mexico, Caribbean Islands, Brazil and Peru since their inception. Having a doctorate in Spanish and Portuguese studies from London University, Ben maintains a strong interest in Latin American literature and culture.

South America will uplift your senses with the tropical sun
rising over a palm-fringed beach, or a bracing wind blowing off the southern
ice fields. Light can be blinding on the high-altitude salt flats, or dense and
green in the rain forest. The gentle scent of the ripe guava fills the
countryside, but the fire of chilli from that innocent-looking jar will
electrify your taste buds.
Explore the cities of prehispanic civilizations and the
churches of colonial times, immerse yourself in the present with its
celebrations and social dilemmas. Where past and present mix, there are
festivals, crafts and gastronomy, from the humble potato in its umpteen
varieties to the most sophisticated of wines.
If you are looking for something more active, throw yourself
off a giant sand dune into a lake, or climb the highest mountain. Walk in the
tree-tops of the rainforest, at eye level with birds and monkeys, dance in an
Andean village square to a solo violin, or to techno brega in a warehouse-sized
club in Belem. Whatever South America inspires you to do, you will find that
there is no limit to the passion that it fires within you.
In this era of countless websites which bring images and information
from every barrio and pueblito, the South American Handbook gives he details on
how to navigate between each place, big or small. It is a celebration of the
spirit of adventure and independence that characterizes travel in this part of
the world. Drawing on the expertise of correspondents in the region and the experiences
of travellers, this 94th edition of the Handbook provides the thread
from Acandi to Ushuaia and everywhere you may wish to stop off in between.
The guide provides comprehensive coverage of
Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay,
Venezuela, the Guianas, and the Falkland Islands.

Extensive coverage of the most famous and lesser-known
sites, from the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and iconic Christ the Redeemer to
the wilderness of the Guianas and rolling hills of Uruguay
Highlights section
so you know what not to miss
Practical information on how to get to each country and
around, plus suggested itineraries to help you plan your trip, whether you are
travelling for a week or a month
Well-researched cultural and historical background
sections available as an online resource
Tips for travelling with your kids
Overview map for each country and region which includes
'Don't miss' destinations, local information on how to get around and detailed
street maps where relevant
Authoritative advice and recommendations to ensure you
find the best accommodation, restaurant or local tour operator

Footprint's legendary South American Handbook covers the
continent in amazing detail, enabling you to explore for yourself. From
spectacular carnivals to shuddering glaciers, this guide will open your way to
the irresistible spirit of the world's greatest continent.

From Inca ruins and swinging cities to tropical jungles and the open plains of Patagonia, Footprint's legendary South America Handbook is essential for inspiration, planning and on-the-road advice for this vast and incredible continent.

1) Planning your trip 2) Argentina 3) Bolivia 4) Brazil 5) Chile 6) Colombia 7) Ecuador 8) Paraguay 9) Peru 10) Uruguay 11) Venezuela 12) Guianas 13) Falkland Islands/Islas Malvinas 14) Practicalities 15) Colour Maps