Ocean to Ocean Road Trip Itinerary
The Ocean to Ocean Road Trip is an exciting journey from Brazil to Peru that allows travelers to explore the amazing sights, sounds, and culture of South America. Starting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, travelers will journey through the towns of Foz do Iguaçu, Santiago del Estero, Salta, Sucre, and La Paz, before arriving in Lima, Peru.
The trip is approximately 6736 km (4200 miles) in total and can be completed in an estimated 30 days. The best time of year to make the trip is during the dry season, which starts in May and ends in October.
The trip offers travelers the opportunity to experience some of the most iconic sites in South America. Along the way, travelers can explore historical sites, natural landscapes, and UNESCO Heritage monuments. With overall good road conditions and a few winding roads, the journey is accessible to all drivers.
This road trip is a great way for travelers to experience the best of South America without breaking the bank. With unforgettable memories and experiences to be had, the Ocean to Ocean Road Trip is an excellent choice for any traveler looking to explore the continent.
30
number of days
6,721 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Rio de Janeiro
Distance 6,721 km
Driving time 120.0 h
Pace: modest
1,747.5 kWh
Airports
GIG
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SDU
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Rio de Janeiro is a spectacular city and the perfect starting point for the Ocean to Ocean Road Trip. With its lush greenery, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, there's plenty to explore in this city.
Begin your visit to Rio de Janeiro by taking a cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Here you can get breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas. Then, make your way to the iconic Christ the Redeemer Statue, which stands tall atop Corcovado Mountain. This iconic monument provides an incredible view of the city and is worth a visit.
No visit to Rio de Janeiro is complete without a trip to Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches. Here you can relax and soak up some sun, or take a dip in the ocean waters. After a day on the beach, explore Rio's nightlife at one of its many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
The closest international airport to Rio de Janeiro is Galeão International Airport (IATA: GIG). Once you arrive, you can rent a car to explore the city. From there, you can begin your Ocean to Ocean Road Trip.
Rio de Janeiro is an exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for stunning views, a party atmosphere, or a relaxing beach day, Rio de Janeiro has it all. Make it your first stop on your Ocean to Ocean Road Trip and you won't be disappointed.
1
Rio de Janeiro
- Foz do Iguaçu
Distance 1,512 km
Driving time 22.7 h
Pace: fast
453.5 kWh
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Embark on an incredible road trip from Rio de Janeiro to Foz do Iguaçu and explore the best of Brazil! The 1512 km journey takes less than 23 hours of driving, and you will be rewarded with views of stunning landscapes, historical sites, and picturesque roads. Start your Brazilian adventure in Rio de Janeiro, the ‘Marvelous City’, and explore its iconic beaches and vibrant nightlife. Drive through the beautiful hills of Curitiba, also known as the ‘Green City’ and enjoy its many parks and gardens. Then, head to Foz do Iguaçu, home to the Iguaçu Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Along the way, you will find several UNESCO Heritage sites, so be sure to look out for them. It’s the perfect journey for those who love adventure and want to explore some of Brazil’s most beautiful places. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, check out the itinerary of this stage. Happy travels!
Foz do Iguaçu - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - www.pikist.com
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2
Foz do Iguaçu
- Asuncion
Distance 339 km
Driving time 5.5 h
Pace: fast
101.8 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil to Asuncion in Paraguay – a 339 km drive that will take you fewer than 6 hours. With its historical sites and picturesque landscapes, this route is sure to be a memorable experience. As you drive, you’ll cross the state border and pass some UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way. Don’t forget to take lots of photos and soak in the beauty of the region! Make sure you take the time to visit the awe-inspiring Iguaçu Falls, the Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue, and the Regua River. For a more in-depth look at the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage. Happy road-tripping!
Asuncion - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Asuncion
- Santiago del Estero
Distance 921 km
Driving time 12.5 h
Pace: fast
276.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Get your car ready for the 906 km drive from Asuncion, Paraguay to Santiago del Estero, Argentina. Take your time and enjoy the journey, as it will take less than 13 hours to reach your destination. As you drive, make sure to pay attention to the beautiful historical sites scattered throughout the route. You will also cross the state border from Paraguay to Argentina, so make sure to have all the necessary documents. This is only one of the stages of a larger tour, but we guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Make sure to visit the San Francisco Church in Asuncion, the San Antonio de Padua Church in Encarnacion, the San Martin Plaza in Posadas, and the National University of Santiago del Estero. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Happy travels!
Santiago del Estero - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Santiago del Estero
- Cafayate
Distance 342 km
Driving time 6.8 h
Pace: modest
88.9 kWh
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Start your road trip from Santiago del Estero, Argentina and explore the wonders of Cafayate in a journey of 343 km that can be done in fewer than 7 hours. This route is full of interesting places to visit, so make sure to stop off and explore!
From Santiago del Estero, you will cross the San Lorenzo Valley and climb the hills of the Sierras de San Lorenzo, admiring the beautiful landscapes of the region. At the top of the hills, stop to appreciate the views of the Tucuman Jungle. As you continue your journey, you will come across small towns and villages, such as the historic town of El Cadillal.
Once you arrive in Cafayate, you can explore its colonial-style houses and its famous wineries. Visit the 18th century San Bernardo Convent and its museum, or take a tour of the Torrontes vineyards. You can also take a relaxing walk in the nearby Quebrada de Cafayate, an amazing canyon with stunning rock formations.
Remember that, along the way, you can find more attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. All this information can be found in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So don’t forget to check it out for a wonderful experience in the route from Santiago del Estero to Cafayate.
Cafayate - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - Wallpaperflare
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5
Cafayate
- Salta
Distance 191 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: modest
49.7 kWh
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip experience? Then explore the 191km route from Cafayate to Salta, Argentina. This drive takes less than 4 hours and is full of amazing sites to explore. As you drive, you will be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and quaint historical sites.
Start your journey in Cafayate, a small town surrounded by the Calchaquí Valley. Here you can visit the 18th century San Carlos de Barlovento Church, the colorful El Porvenir Museum, and the town’s historical center. You can also take a trip to the nearby El Esteco winery to learn about the region’s history and wine production.
Continue your journey to the town of Cachi, one of the oldest settlements in the Calchaquí Valley. Here you can visit the colonial-style church, the old train station, and the nearby La Merced Church. In the afternoon, take a break in Molinos, a picturesque village surrounded by vineyards.
The last stop of the journey is Salta, a city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife. Here, you can visit the Cathedral Basilica of Salta, the Cabildo de Salta, and the San Bernardo Convent. The city is also known for its delicious empanadas, so don’t forget to try some!
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience between Cafayate and Salta!
Salta - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
Salta - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Salta
- Potosí
Distance 852 km
Driving time 16.1 h
Pace: modest
221.6 kWh
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Get ready to explore the colorful and lively cities of Salta and Potosí during a spectacular 852 km road trip! Along the way, you will cross the state border and pass by steep ramps, so pay attention to the road. You’ll be able to appreciate the beautiful landscapes and picturesque scenery, as well as amazing historical sites such as Los Cardones National Park and Talampaya National Park, both UNESCO Heritage sites. This trip will take you fewer than 18 hours, so make sure you take your time and enjoy the ride. Don’t forget to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route!
Potosí - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - Flickr
Potosí - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Potosí
- Sucre
Distance 154 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
40.1 kWh
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The road trip stage from Potosí to Sucre, only 155 km apart, is a great opportunity to explore the fascinating Bolivian countryside. The journey takes approximately 4 hours, and on the way, you'll be able to witness some beautiful landscapes and historical sites. The first stop is the Potosí Cerro Rico, one of Bolivia's most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can take some amazing photos and learn about the history of the area. Further along the route, you'll find the Valle de las Ánimas, a stunning valley filled with colorful rocks and mysterious formations. Finally, you'll reach Sucre, the official capital of Bolivia and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can admire the colonial architecture of the city and its many churches and squares. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along this route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Sucre - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Sucre
- Oruro
Distance 333 km
Driving time 6.6 h
Pace: modest
86.7 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Sucre to Oruro, Bolivia! This 332 km journey will take you less than 8 hours, depending on the stops you make. Along the way, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore, from UNESCO Heritage sites to awe-inspiring landscapes. Make sure to keep your eyes open for historical sites, scenic roads, and interesting detours. Keep in mind that some of the most breathtaking views of the Bolivian Andes can be seen from the roadside. Don’t miss the opportunity to soak up the beautiful surroundings and take some amazing photos. As you pass through the cities, take the time to explore the local markets and savor the traditional cuisine. If you're feeling adventurous, take a detour to the small towns and villages that dot the countryside. There are plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. For more information on these attractions and more, be sure to check out the itinerary for this stage of the road trip.
Oruro - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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9
Oruro
- La Paz
Distance 232 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: fast
69.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an adventure? Get your car and start your road trip from Oruro, Bolivia, and embark on a 231 km journey to La Paz. Along the way, you will be able to admire incredible landscapes and visit some interesting places.
In Oruro, we recommend visiting the Oruro Carnival, declared a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. It is a great opportunity to experience Bolivian culture and folklore.
Once you get on the road, do not forget to stop at the Yungas, a mountain rainforest located in the eastern region of the country. Here, you can explore the lush vegetation, marvel at the towering mountain peaks, and take a dip in the natural pools.
Your next stop should be the magnificent Inca ruins of Tiwanaku, a pre-Colombian archaeological site. Here, you will be able to admire the ruins of the ancient city, including the Pyramid of Akapana and the Gate of the Sun.
Finally, you will reach La Paz, which is home to some of the most spectacular colonial buildings in Bolivia. Don't miss the chance to visit the San Francisco Church and the Plaza Murillo.
The drive will take less than four hours, and with the right planning, you can make the most of your journey and visit some of the most interesting places in Bolivia. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the ride!
La Paz - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - Pixabay
La Paz - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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10
La Paz
- Puno
Distance 267 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: modest
69.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip from La Paz to Puno? Get ready to cross the state border and explore some of the most beautiful UNESCO Heritage sites along the way! This 267km journey will take you less than 5 hours and you will get to discover some of the most picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and scenic roads.
You will be able to explore the rich archaeological culture of Tiwanaku, the historical town of Desaguadero, and the stunningly beautiful Lake Titicaca. Make sure to keep your eyes open for the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Illampu mountain along the way.
For a more detailed look at the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for a memorable road trip from La Paz to Puno!
Puno - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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11
Puno
- Cusco
Distance 388 km
Driving time 7.0 h
Pace: modest
101.0 kWh
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Embark on an adventure of a lifetime with a road trip from Puno to Cusco! This journey of 388 km will take you fewer than 7 hours, through the incredible scenery of the Peruvian Andes. Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca and its islands, and marvel at the ancient ruins and centuries-old monuments along the way. The road is winding in some sections and includes steep ramps, so make sure to drive with caution. Keep your eyes open for some of the UNESCO Heritage sites, such as the Coricancha in Cusco. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and the scenic road, and make sure to take some amazing pictures! Don't forget to check out the local markets, churches and other historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? The adventure of a lifetime awaits!
Cusco - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - Pixabay
Cusco - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - Pixabay
Cusco - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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12
Cusco
- Ayacucho
Distance 580 km
Driving time 12.4 h
Pace: modest
150.8 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Cusco to Ayacucho! This route will take you through a stunning journey of 614 km (fewer than 16 hours of driving). Enjoy the marvelous views of the Andes, the spectacular lakes, and the picturesque landscapes of the highlands. Pay attention to the historical sites such as Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, and the UNESCO Heritage Sites of Huánuco and Ayacucho. Be careful along the winding road, some sections of it have steep ramps. Don’t miss the incredible views of the Apurímac River and the beautiful lakes of Pachachaca and Parinacochas. Take your time to explore each of these beautiful places and enjoy their unique attractions. For further information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, take a look at the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Ayacucho - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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13
Ayacucho
- Huancayo
Distance 303 km
Driving time 7.7 h
Pace: slow
69.7 kWh
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Embark on a road trip through the stunning landscapes of Peru, starting in Ayacucho and ending in Huancayo. This 299 km journey will take you fewer than 8 hours and will be filled with fun and exciting attractions.
Discover the rich history of Ayacucho, from the majestic colonial churches to the archaeological remains of the Wari culture. Make sure to visit the main square of the city, the Plaza de la Independencia, and take in the beauty of the many historical buildings that surround it.
The next stop is Tarma, a city filled with bustling markets and traditional restaurants. Here, you can learn about traditional crafts and explore the local culture. Don’t miss the Museum of Tarma, a great place to learn about the city’s history.
Continuing your journey, you will reach Huancayo. This city is home to stunning colonial architecture, old churches, and a lively culture. Make sure to visit the Huancayo Main Square and the famous Santa Ana Church.
Along your road trip, you will also find many beautiful landscapes and natural attractions. Make sure to take some breaks and enjoy the beautiful views.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great and safe journey!
Huancayo - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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14
Huancayo
- Lima
Distance 306 km
Driving time 7.1 h
Pace: modest
79.6 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable adventure on a road trip from Huancayo to Lima! This 306km journey will take you fewer than 7 hours, allowing you to take in the stunning landscapes and historical sites of Peru. Keep your eyes peeled for the delightful Laguna de Paca, the picturesque Lago de Junín, and the UNESCO Heritage site of Pampa Galeras. As you make your way through the highlands of Peru, marvel at the lush vegetation, the winding roads, and the stunning views. On the way, don't forget to visit the colonial city of Jauja, founded in 1534, and the historical city of Huancayo, where you can explore the local markets and historical sites. As you drive, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains. When you arrive in Lima, don't forget to explore the city's churches, plazas, museums, and galleries. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your journey.
Lima - Brazil - South America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Lima
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Lima, the capital of Peru, is the perfect destination to end your epic "Ocean to Ocean Road Trip". Located on the Pacific coast, Lima is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of the ocean and the city. The ancient city of Lima is home to a number of interesting attractions, including the impressive Plaza Mayor, the vibrant Larco Museum, and the beautiful Parque de Amor.
If you're looking for an adventure while in Lima, you can take a trip to the nearby Islas Palomino, go sandboarding in the desert, or take a boat ride to the Palomino Islands. Lima also offers some of the best cuisine in Peru, with a range of traditional dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina.
For those traveling by car, the closest international airport is Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM). From here, you can easily make your way to Lima, where you can enjoy the beauty of the city and the ocean. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an exciting adventure, Lima will not disappoint. So, make sure to include Lima in your "Ocean to Ocean Road Trip" and enjoy the best of Peru!
Ocean to Ocean Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Rio de Janeiro
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End:
Lima
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Distance:
6,721 km
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Stay:
30 days
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Getting there:
Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (GIG),
Santos Dumont Airport (SDU)
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When to drive:
March, April, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Ocean to Ocean Road Trip, an epic 6,736 km (4,186 miles) expedition that traverses the heart of South America from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast. Over an estimated 30 days, adventurers will experience a tapestry of cultures, ecosystems, and histories. This journey begins in the effervescent city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and culminates amidst the historical grandeur of Lima, Peru, offering an unparalleled adventure that knits together the continent's most standout experiences.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Revel in the city's iconic landmarks, including the sun-kissed sands of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the towering Christ the Redeemer statue, which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and the panoramic views from Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil: A natural wonder, the Iguaçu Falls are a collection of 275 waterfalls, sprawling over nearly 3 km and offering one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the world, bordering Argentina and Brazil.
- Santiago del Estero, Argentina: This city is steeped in history as one of the oldest continuous settlements in Argentina, boasting a wealth of colonial architecture and deeply rooted traditions.
- Salta, Argentina: Celebrated for its rich Andean heritage, Salta provides a window into Indigenous culture, with colorful markets and the dramatic backdrop of the Andes Mountains.
- Sucre, Bolivia: Known as `The White City,` Sucre is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its well-preserved 16th-century architecture and charming urban landscape.
- La Paz, Bolivia: As the world's highest de facto capital city, La Paz sits at roughly 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level. It captivates with its vibrant street life, the otherworldly landscape of Moon Valley, and the famous Uyuni Salt Flats are within reach for an extended excursion.
- Lima, Peru: A culinary hotspot, Lima is not just the capital but also the gastronomic heart of Peru, offering a blend of pre-Columbian historical sites and colonial mansions alongside modern amenities.
Best Time to Go:
To maximize comfort and safety, the ideal time to undertake this Road Trip is during the South American dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this period, travelers can enjoy clearer skies and more manageable driving conditions.
Potential Risks:
- Road conditions can vary greatly, with some routes featuring challenging mountain passes and winding Roads that demand attentive driving.
- High-altitude destinations like La Paz can pose a risk of altitude sickness; it's essential to acclimatize and stay hydrated.
- Local weather patterns may lead to unexpected delays or detours, so flexibility is vital.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Despite some challenging stretches, the overall Road infrastructure is suitable for those with driving experience, making this Trip accessible to many adventurers.
- The cost-effectiveness of this journey allows for an immersive exploration of South American culture and nature without breaking the bank.
- Prepare for lengthy drives and diverse terrain by ensuring your vehicle is properly serviced and equipped for the journey.
A good choice for:
The Ocean to Ocean Road Trip is more than a journey; it's a deep dive into the heart of South American splendor. From the rhythms of Brazilian samba to the ancient mysteries of Peru, it's an invitation to create stories that echo across time and geography, making it an essential pilgrimage for the passionate RoadTripper.
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