SOUTH AMERICA - Solo Overland Travel & Transit
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There's no simple way to cross through or around this land mass without having to zig-zag and circumvent it many times, which will at least take one year to 18 months or more to complete - if thoroughly executed. The timing should be calculated to reach Patagonia through the summer months unless the cold bitterly winds and snow from Antarctica isn't an issue. The festivals are many throughout the continent and can also be placed into a schedule, although some main events do coincide with other festivities at the same time.
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Flight Path Arrival - Top 3 Latin Cities
Flights arriving into South America are in their thousands from Europe, USA, and the Pacific. The three major destinations to begin an overland transit journey through the entire continent are at opposite ends of each other. Overland transiting up, down and across the continent from Colombia, Argentina, or Chile will avoid any back-tracking. Bogota, Buenos Aires, and Santiago are the three top recommended cities to start an overland transit journey through the continent. Timing of arrival plays an important role on both ends of the continent for seasonal and festival events. Landing in Santiago in the mid-spring is perfect timing to reach Patagonia. For those who want a slow start of absorbing Latino street atmosphere Chile is the best option.
Solo Overland Transit Routes - South America
Landing into South America is the easy part, transiting overland through the entire continent requires lots of time, patience and endurance. The transit routes shown above are basic connections up and down and across the continent. Depending if one were continuing an overland transit journey from Central America, or entering by flight in the south at Santiago, or Buenos Aires, the timing of arrival in correspondence to seasonal weather patterns should be considered. Visiting the Patagonian region is recommended from November onwards. The winter months in Bolivia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina are rewarding for those who enjoy the great outdoor wilderness lifestyle. Low and highland off-road transit routes may be affected from flash flooding, slips or erratic weather.
For more detailed information the climate to travel website has a thorough analysis of any country's temperature conditions covering all seasons. Transiting by bus through South America is straight forward with plenty of different bus companies offering affordable pricing and comfort. The Ormeno bus company based in Lima operates two routes through the continent (Lima-Buenos Aires, Lima Caracas). Ormeno is no-frills transport system that's been operating 5 day transit runs for decades. Purchasing your own VW Kombi is another option, which I've done numerous times - more on this in the overland transit page. What's what in the transit baggage page covers the basic necessities of different items that have a proven track record with my own approval rating.
On any long-term overland travel journey, there's always the dilemma of deciding what photo-gear to purchase. The photo-gear page covers a variety of equipment I've personally used which may give some help and insight.
Transiting on ferry boats in either direction up or down the Amazon is relatively straight forward. In Brazil, ferry boats from Belem will get you connected through the Amazonian river tributaries to Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela and Peru. All ferry boat connections are interlinked up and down the Amazon basin. In Brazil slow boats from Belem connect to Santarem and Manaus. There are scheduled ferry boat sailings from Porto Velho to Manaus each week. There are constant ferry boat sailings from Manaus to Belem and Tabatinga/Leticia. There's also slow boat connections from Manaus to Boa Vista. The river link from Manaus to Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira gets you to the back-door entrance into Venezuela. Connections from Leticia to Puerto Asis in Colombia can take up to 3 weeks with cargo vessels.
There are no direct Putumayo river ferry boat services. There's the option of taking a fast boat from Santa Rosa to Iquitos. Ferry boats from Iquitos to Pucallpa take approx. 7 days up river and 4 days down river. Connecting onward up river from Pucallpa to San Francisco or from Iquitos to Yurimaguas can be done with infrequent cargo vessels in either direction. A robust reliable hammock is required on all slow boats. Completing the entire Amazon basin circuit will take 3+ months.
Choosing an Amazon ferryboat route are many. Deciding where one begins is usually from Belem to Pucallpa, or down river in the other direction with numerous connections and stop-offs. Other favourite routes are from Porto Velho via Manaus, Santarem to Macapa, or from Coca via Iquitos to Pucallpa, and San Francisco. For those looking for an extreme riverboat journey, the Manaus to Venezuela route all the way to Puerto Guayana in Venezuela will do it.
Overland Transit Routes
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Plenty of time is required to complete a thorough overland journey through the continent. Approximately 18 months to 2 years will cover this amazing rugged landmass. The average stay within each country is normally between 2-3 months or more. Many foreigners rush through South America because of limited time - don't be one them, this is one continent that absorbs time and energy on a daily basis.
Long-Term Overland Road Trip - South America
If you're like me wanting your own time schedule, privacy, and stopping at locations without rushing around looking for public transport is by purchasing your own vehicle. VW Kombis maybe old, but there's still plenty of these classic vans running around the continent. Even purchasing a VW Kombi that may require minimal engine repairs, or a fresh coat of paint will be beneficial when it comes to the time of reselling it. New and second hand parts for VW Kombis are still available scattered in most latin countries. Some foreigners will instead, store their Kombi till returning to South America for another full-on road trip a year or two later. This does involve some extra official paper work, but worth the effort if returning. Of late, driving your own vehicle through the entire continent may or may not be fully completed due to car-jacking, extortion, and corruption in Venezuela. The road route connection from Colombia to Guyana and Brazil is thru Venezuela. Driving thru Isolated bush track highways in Brazil is dangerous. Banditry highway robbing happens more frequent than you can imagine. Nothing much changes driving on South American highways, it's all about luck and timing. Night driving should be totally avoided if you value your life and stuff. A friend had bought a Brazilian registered VW Kombi only to have it smashed and badly damaged in Chile while driving at night. Thinking that nothing will happen to you in any remote region in South America is something that should not be taken lightly - excluding only Patagonia, and Chile. There's more info on driving and purchasing your own South American vehicle in in the Overland Transit section.
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Major South American highways are as good as anywhere around the planet. It's only when deviating through secondary road routes, and short cut bush tracks when roads become hazardous. Never park up somewhere along the side of highways during the night with transport, if having number plates from neighbouring countries. Reaching a safe place before the sun sets to park vehicles is a priority. South American highway road bandits and thieves show no mercy when it comes to easy pickings.
Drug Smuggling - Don't Even Think About It!
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A warning to those who think that overland drug smuggling or being a drug mule anywhere in South America is easy money - It's not. Drug border control checks, including random highway checks throughout the continent are now normal procedure. Border drug check controls involve separate gender strip searches, drug sniffing dogs, and a thorough inspection of all baggage. Personally, I have met foreign tourists who were caught with small quantities of cocaine who thought their stash wouldn't be found. South American drug enforcement officers know every hiding place in existence. They've had plenty of experience over the decades busting their own citizens who also thought they could evade from being caught smuggling drugs across borders. Expect hardcore drug searches at the borders of Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Chile and Argentina. These countries including other Latin republics do carry out random drug searches inside their own borders. South American jails are not holiday camps like in Scandinavia - Don't smuggle narcotics unless you want to rot in a South American jail. Personally checking and repacking all baggage should be done before transiting across borders or at airports.
: Australian female busted smuggling 6 kilos of cocaine - Colombia
: New Zealand female busted smuggling 5 kilos of cocaine - Argentina
: European drug ring busted for smuggling cocaine - Colombia
: English females busted for smuggling 11 kilos of cocaine - Peru
: 1800 foreigners busted for drugs in one year - Chile
: Drug smugglers busted in Brazil are mainly foreigners.
: Smuggling cocaine in your stomach out of Brazil to New Zealand is a no brainer.
Interacting - It Works Every time
The Latinos are an amazing mixture of cultures that intermingle colonial and indigenous heritages together. Their hot blooded temperament and mood of the moment is witnessed on every street one walks. It's the only continent that has the same outward extraversion that is stimulated sociably in public. If one were to walk the avenues of Buenos Aires or stroll a remote village in Colombia the conversation between locals will contain the same elements of energy and temperament. Relating to Latino's is easy, just talk - and see what happens, they enjoy to chit chat and will do it all day if possible. Indigenous locals within the Andean block are more closed off towards foreigners, but if one were to spend a day's free labour working in the fields with them, then the interaction will be immense. Sometimes as a visitor we demand too much and understand very little of how to put the first foot forward when trying to communicate with others. Interacting and speaking Spanish is the swivel and foundation that guarantees a higher level of satisfaction over-landing through the continent. Connecting with Latinos is important if one wants to enjoy the full extent of what South America has to offer.
Random street photography will keep anyone busy capturing snaps within Mountainous regions in the Andean block. Open markets are plentiful full of indigenous locals selling produce and purchasing supplies.
The Caribbean coastline is well known and regarded for its up-tempo mood-swing from Cartagena to Salvador. Dress-mode is vibrant among the locals who are normally fully charged and extraverted. The endless amount of beaches and bars will keep most visitors activated non-stop through the nights. Below, tribal culture can be easily seen within the Andean block, especially in Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Overland Transit South America - It's a Vibrant Journey
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From the Colombian Caribbean coast - Cartagena, to the lowest point of the continent - Puerto Williams is an epic journey through a cultural mix of history and topography that guarantees satisfaction to anyone that plans an overland journey through it. Many foreigners begin their overland journey through the continent at Cartagena.
South America, a continent that saturates most visitors who discover how immensely different each country is with numerous ethnic diversity. South America is an adrenaline rush for landscape lovers, highland hikers and wildlife fanatics. Combine this in together with Latino art, food, dance, music and song, it makes the continent an epic adventure of solo overland travel with everything and anything one wished for.
Those who end-up reaching this classic sign board have made it to the lowest point of the continent at the port town hub of Puerto williams, Chile. From here jumping on a ship to the Antartica ice shelf is only a stones throw away across the roaring 40's. One can be lucky enough to hitch a ride on a supply vessel instead of the usual fly in fly out, or over expensive tourist ships during the summer months to Antartica.
The Pan American highway showing congested transit traffic heading northbound on the western side of the continent. Getting up and down through the western side of South America is a breeze, even hitchhiking is simple enough if one has plenty of time on their hands. Hitching lifts on trucks, or private vehicles is usually from the last gas fill station out of any city or town. This gives the chance to openly chat with drivers before jumping onboard.
An overland transit journey through South America isn't complete without accomplishing at least a one-way voyage through the Amazon river. Pullcapa to Belem via Iquitos, Leticia, Manaus and Santarem is one option. Jumping on board slow boats are numerous with river ports along the way. A sturdy hammock is required and recommended for all slow boat journeys. The image above was taken at dusk on a super fast boat heading up river from Manaus to Tabingtiga. The Overland Transit page has more images and info.
South American main transit highways vary from country to country. Some of the best bitumen roads are in Chile, Argentina, Venezuela, Brazil and Colombia. Dirt track highways are still active in Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and within the central regions of the Amazonian basin. In general, most roads diverting off major highways will eventually turn into narrow single-lane bush tracks having minimal maintenance. The Amazon region has numerous bush track routes to experience a week or two of travel without seeing a tar-sealed road in any direction. During the wet season some bush track routes turn into non-passable bog pits. The Andean chain high pass dirt road routes in Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina are among the top overland transit routes in the Americas. A few personal favourites are the Paso Agua Negra, Uyuni to Salta, Letham to Macapa, Pasto to Puerto Asis, and Cusco to Rio Branco.
Transiting on slow trains through South America can be more thrilling than expected. Slow bush track rail is still being used in certain regions in Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador. Hanging out the sides or on rooftops of trains will depend if locals are doing it. This is solely at your own risk, don't expect trains to stop if you suddenly slip off the side, and kiss goodbye to any baggage left on board, it won't be there after a few stops.
Wildlife - South America
The entire continent is teaming with an overflowing abundance of wildlife. Transiting southward from the Colombian caribbean coast down through Venezuela, Guyana to the Amazonian basin, one encounters dense tropical rain forests. It's here where jaguar, puma, reptiles, and exotic birds can be seen with the assistance from local wildlife guides. Cruising around alone inside any of these sanctuaries isn't recommended, unless it's a slow painful death you're looking for from a camouflaged coral snake hanging on a tree. Advancing more southward through Peru and the Bolivian altiplano, flamingo, alpaca, and llamas are commonly spotted feeding within their natural habitat. It's also here where the Andean condor resides, and can be easily seen the further one travels more southward. One of the most well known sanctuaries in the continent, which I personally recommend to visit, is Torres del Paine national park situated in the deep south in Patagonia. Hiking and trekking through this region one can spot Guanaco, condor, deer, and over 20 species of other mammals, including a large variety of different birds, with absorbing amounts of flora and fauna. The transit route from Calafate via Torres del Paine onward to Puerto Natales, and downward to Ushuaia is a mind-blowing scenic journey that shouldn't be missed. The ultimate time to travel and transit through the Patagonia region is usually after early spring has begun. This allows more visibility with less low cloud cover, fog and rainfall - there's a selection of more continental wildlife image captures here
The Bolivian altiplano has a mixed variety of different wildlife habitat. Desert foxes, vicuna, llama, and flamingo are commonly spotted wherever there's a substance of high altitude grass, springs, salar ponds, and lakes. Travelling with a DSLR camera and a zoom lens is recommended through the Altiplano region.
Using your own vehicle, a reliable rented 4x4, or sharing a transport with other wildlife enthusiasts over a 7-30 day period through the Altiplano region will guarantee capturing great image snaps.
Macaw parrots, one of the many hundreds of different bird spices within northern jungles of S.A.
The snap above was taken on a drizzly misty overcast day within Torres del Paine. November through to February is the preferable time period to visit the Patagonian region. During these months the visibility is clearer with less cloud cover. The average rainfall in the Patagonia region is approximately 440mm annually with April and May the wettest months.
Below, primates within their habitat deep within the Amazonian basin between Iquitos and Leticia.
Primates can be visibly seen within their habitat deep within the Amazonian basin between Iquitos and Leticia.
One wildlife subject South America isn't lacking are Alpaca. They are seen scattered all along the highlands of the Altiplano flatlands, and normally ear-tagged and owned by local families. Flocks of Alpaca can be spotted wherever lush green marsh wetlands are established.
Jungle regions within the Amazon basin have an abundance of toucans which can be heard by their peculiar bird call. They are easily spotted nestled up grouped together in trees anywhere near where water flows.
The jaguar can be spotted in numerous regions in South America. It's widely seen in the Brazilian paternal, Bolivian low land jungle, the Peruvian Amazon basin, the Ecuadorian coastal flatlands, the northern areas of Colombia, and within the rain forests of Venezuela, Guyana, and Suriname. A male jaguar will reach an average weight of 95KG. Although there have been sporadic attacks against humans, the jaguar's food supply is readily available and tends to hunt and kill anything worth devouring. A few on the hit list as food are deer, peccary, crocodiles, snakes, lizards. birds, monkeys, sloths, tapirs, turtles, eggs, frogs, and fish. The image below was captured unexpectedly within the Peruvian Amazon basin.
Coca Leaf - Natural Health Fix
Guzzling down a few Mate de Coca drinks every day will certainly replenish your body with plenty of natural minerals and vitamins. Coca leaves contain traces of magnesium, calcium, phosphorous,including vitamins A, B1,B2,B6, C and E. Coca leaf can be easily found at most Bolivian markets.
Colombians - Great Interaction
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The Colombians - it doesn't matter where one travels through the country, their rewarding hospitality is everywhere. It's their positive outward personality that climbs to another level compared to other Latin countries. Even with the past and on-going conflicts since the mid 80's with drug cartels and F.A.R.C., the Colombians haven't lost their vibrancy as a nation to do what they do best - entertain amongst themselves. This is one Latin country that will absorb many months of solo travel without even acknowledging it. Colombian landscape is as diverse as it gets, and the people explosive. Whatever plan one has, don't leave South America without transiting through Colombia. The country has an amazing culture with ethnic differences that reflect the true values of their nation. Colombian overland travel and transit route map.
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Colombian Overland Transit Map
Designer Items - Colombia
Finding quality handmade designer products through South America isn't difficult. Colombian Wayuu mochila bags are one of the most versatile woven bags found on the planet. The mochila shown above was privately made and gifted over a decade ago. The quality of these bags will certainly give many years of wear and tear reliability. Purchasing Colombian green emeralds is another great option. Setting an emerald into one-off ring designs, and finished in 18 carat gold can be done in any of the large cities. On a previous visit, I had designed my own jewellery, with one ring fitted with a 6.3 carat emerald (shown above). Soft suede leather can be purchased at most tanneries, and can then be handmade into anything desired. I made the vest above over 23 years ago from thick suede, and is still being worn today. image capture-southern Colombia.
Colombian Rhythm - Salsa Merengue Cumbia
"It's impossible to imagine Latinos without music"
The magical influence of South America runs through one’s blood the moment one steps on to this continent. Latinos are extroverted: they spend more time outdoors than indoors. Large cities and small rural villages bustle with overcrowded pavements and endless traffic. When mingling along the foot-walks towards a favourite outdoor breakfast retreat each morning, it's striking to observe the individual personalities amongst locals from all walks of life. Sipping a "cafe con leche" and listening to the distinct rhythm of salsa blasting across from neighbouring boutiques, echoes through the entire continent. It's difficult to imagine Latinos without music. It’s embedded in them from the day they're born and tolerated without prejudice amongst them. Music is an easy way to pick up Spanish. Spending time and interacting with street kids is another alternative - they have all the time in the world to explain or describe whatever it is until it is understood. Cruising through Brazil speaking Spanish is easier than trying to relate in Portuguese to the rest of the continent who only speak Spanish.
Cali is a prime example of continuous rhythm sounds of Salsa through the night. There's actually not even one single bar or venue that plays western music in Cali - it's pure Salsa. Medellin, Manizales, Bogota, and the Caribbean coast all have their own distinctive flavour of local music tones. Salsa, Merengue, and Cumbia are integrated, and certainly plays a part in Colombian culture. Colombian reggeaton has been around for awhile, but the influence of original Cuban Salsa has been around for decades and will always be the number one rhythm through the country. The above image was a snap taken at the Petronio Alvaraz Pacifico Musica Festival in Cali which is held once a year over 4 days. The event is well organised, and heavily influenced with distinct African rhythms from a variety of different groups from the west coast region of Colombia. The below snap is none other than Buena Vista Social Club playing in a very small venue in Bogota. Only a few performers of the original band still remain, but the rhythm, sound, and vibe of the band remains intact.
What - Nikon D3 in 2020?
It's always the same question I get asked no matter the country or continent I'm in - "Why do you use these old heavy 12 megapixel tank cameras?" It's simple, the reliability of these particular models will survive and handle almost any environment without failing. The D3 in the image has already proven itself in +50C temps twice for 3 week periods at a time, and has also passed the ultimate cold test within extreme sub-zero temperatures below minus -30C @ 4000+ metres altitude for a month. Nikon got it right with this body design, the D3/D3S fits perfectly in the hand, and becomes a non-stop robust daylight workhorse for street photography, portraits, landscape wildlife, and on the go snaps.
The Altiplano - High Altitude Wilderness
The Bolivian Altiplano weather patterns are extreme through the seasons, producing spectacular changing vistas of low cloud, clear blue sky, and dust storms over landscape formations. Rich ore sediments embedded in mountains reflect multiple colours of rustic orange with white sulphate hypnotizing the visitor. The Altiplano is a harsh barren region with climatic extremities like in Tibet or Lesotho with an unforgiving presence of nature's wild side. The view above of barren Altiplano landscape at 4870 metres.
Bolivia's Altiplano region is the cream of the crop for high altitude scenery. Travelling slowly through the Altiplano rewards anyone with open views of arid desert, salt salars and flamingo filled lakes, a small part of the amazing spectacle of what the South American continent has to offer.
The Andes - Volcanoes on Steroids
A volcano vent in full motion has an extremely loud noisy sound of its own that churns like a cement mixer on steroids. This incredible rhythmic motion was awe inspiring to witness, and recommended to anyone if possible. Volcanic activity is rife along the Andean chain - especially in Chile and Ecuador. This particular live vent was in central Chile deep inside within an isolated national park without another soul in sight - Only the tune of the earth rumbling with its distinctive overtures. Chilean overland travel and transit route map
Another volcano situated in central Chile showing its centre core pot of pure liquid molten.
Pastel Green - Amazon Basin
The Amazonian estuaries are full and overflowing with an abundance of different aquatic water plants, like this wild crop of shell flowers (water lettuce) flourishing within the Tri-border region of Peru, Brazil and Colombia.
Solid Jasper Rock - Southern Venezuela
The Jasper falls located in La Gran Sabana region in southern Venezuela is what it's named after. The falls cascade onto a solid terrace of opaque rock. The river bed reflects a brilliant radiance of the red jasper reflecting through the water that stuns any visitor with ever-lasting impressions. Venezuela physical map
The Andes - Hiking, Trekking, Camping
Heading to the hills trekking and getting lost within the Cordillera Blanca is what most foreigners want to do - to enjoy the peace and serenity amongst these majestic mountains. Huaraz in the Ancash region in Peru is well known as the adventure sports capital for outdoor lovers who rock climb, mountaineer, hike, and to watch wildlife in their natural habitat. The image above was captured during a 3 day Santa Cruz trek.
Landscape Terrain - Northern Argentina
Ancient rock formations are easily seen and visible through the foot hills of the Andean chain belt. Some of the most spectacular formations like the valley of the moon can be easily accessed at San Pedro de Atacama, with others situated in the southern regions of Bolivia. This rock formation is only a small section of an entire valley displaying exposed rock landscape. The region is approximately 2 hours drive from Salta de Jujuy in northern Argentina. The region is also known for having the highest vineyard plantations globally producing Argentina's most delicious tasting wine - Malbec. The entire Salta region is a natural wilderness for those into hiking and trekking. Argentinian overland map
South American Wilderness
Don't even think about arriving into South America without DSLR camera-gear. Those only considering using Smart phone cameras will become dis-satisfied very quickly when trying to capture distant images. Travelling with at least one DSLR camera body and a quality brand zoom lens to reach out at subjects is required. The image shown above was taken at a distance of approximately 200 metres using a zoom lens @200mm.
Rainforest - Guyana
Rain forests abound through South America, but one small enclave particularly stands out from others - the pristine jungle forests in Guyana. It's here that over 1200 species of birds reside, including the largest eagle known as the Harpy eagle. Guyana's forests are also full of jaguar, spider monkeys, and snakes which are randomly spotted in open areas. Guyana has only one highway, a single dirt road from the Brazilian border to Georgetown on the coast. The Brazilian government plans to construct a major highway to deviate Amazonian river traffic in and out of Manaus. Over landing through Guyana should be done before major highway construction happens.
Below, the Iwokrama canopy walkway in north Rupununi Guyana physical map
Valle De La Luna - Atacama
The Valley of the Moon is situated in northern Chile's Atacama desert.The landscape and rock formations do resemble distict similarities just like the moon's surface. One of the best times to visit this amazing spectacle of topography is approximately two hours before sunset.
Amazon - Pucallpa to Belem
A snap of the Amazon of its widest width showing the river's vastness and water flow of this huge catchment. There was a time when one could use their own make-shift raft, and cruise from one end of the river (Peru) to the mouth at Belem, but draconian rules and regulations have shut this down. Ferry boats take 3 days sailing time from Belem to arrive at the Manaus port. It takes another 3 days from Manaus to Tabatinga/Leticia, the Amazonian tri-border of Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. From there, the choice of direction by boat transport to Peru or Ecuador is easily reached. Heading upstream by boat into Colombia along the Putumayo river to Puerto Asis can be done using infrequent cargo ships which can take 12 to 21 days. Below, a typical Amazonian pastel dusk silhouette. Brazilian transit route map
The Andean Chain - Chavin Region
A view of the Andean chain winding southward in the Chavin district. The elevation level was approximately 5500 metres altitude where this image was taken.
Valley Sagrado - Urubamba
A partial view of Inca ruins at valley Sagrado in the Urubamba region
Landscape - Tupiza Region
Just a small stones throw away northward from Tupiza pueblo the landscape suddenly changes displaying open views of rugged cliff divisions with reddish pink jagged pinnacle tops.
The Uros Tribe - Lago Titicaca
History records the Uros tribe were forced off the mainland from the expansion by the Inca, and were forced to take residence on Lago Titicaca. Today, the Uros islands total more than 70 floating reed habitats scattered on the lake.
Totora reeds have been used over the centuries by the Uros Tribe who still construct their dwellings, furniture and boats from Totora reed. The Uros tribe, pre-date Incan civilisation. Their lifestyle is basic and simple, and still hunt and fish their daily meals each day. Each year in November, The Uros Tribe gather together and reenact the legend of Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo.
The craft of hand weaving boats is automatically passed down through the generations of the Uros Tribe. Each boat is constructed from fresh harvested Totora reeds weaved together and held in tightly in place with wire. After a short time period the newly assembled reed boats are bone dry and ready for use.
Approximately 1,300 Uros live on the scattered archipelago of floating reed islands on Lake Titicaca. The number of visitors every year mount to a staggering 200,000 which has brought a steady income for the Uros people. Around 70% of the population work full time with tourism.
Street Photography & Chit Chat - Latinos Love it
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South America is certainly not short of children. Latino families are much larger in comparison to European or other Western nations. Latino kids are open and friendly to interact with if Spanish is spoken. The simplest way to learn Spanish is with children. Elderly Latinos are also happy to chat with you all day. Random street photography with Latinos starts here - it can't be any easier. The enjoyment of showing whatever images are taken to locals is rewarding and goes both ways. Interacting with children from different barrios through South America gives the same results - lots of smiles and laughter. Capturing group shot captures with a reasonable wide angle lens does the job.
Images are completely different locations within the continent with the same results - positive interaction.
Wild Cactus & Salt Salars
Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt flat, located in Bolivia. May through to October is the best time to visit the Salar region, as the dry weather displays pastel skies during the winter season. The township of Tupiza located in southern Bolivia is one of the best places to begin a 4-7 day journey through the Altiplano in a rented 4x4.
Salt Pan Valley - Peru
It's a 45km journey from Cusco to the slopes of the Qaqawiñay mountains reaching Salinas de Maras. This small valley contains one of the purest forms of salt, which is extracted and exported off-shore. The pre-Inca salt pans are a formation of hundreds of shallow pools, and filled by a hypersaline underground spring. The spring water has natural trace elements of potassium, magnesium, calcium, and silicon. The valley of Salinas de Maras is at an elevation of 3890 metres within the Urumbamba Valley - Peru.
Megalithic Rock Design
We are told the Inca were the original designers of large megalithic rock cut-outs that fit perfectly in place next to one another. Like most megalithic rock structures around the planet, they have many similarities in design, but with little or no reference of what tooling was used, or how large tonnage rocks were moved in to their positions. Most theories being only assumptions.
The Inca like other ancient civilisations (Aztec, Indian, Egyptians, Mayan, Carthaginian, Etruscans, Hawaiians, Mesopotamians) were heavily into ritual human and child sacrifices. Demigod stone structures around the planet carved from stone also bear close similarities in design. There's also good evidence of ancient underground tunnels scattered in South America, India, and Sardinia. They have all been cloaked kept in secrecy through the centuries. Are these underground tunnels somehow linked to each other? Ancient civilisations basically worshipped similar looking demigods - regarded as only myth legends - really?
There are other reports, South American secret tunnels are inter-linked under the ice in Antarctica. One has to ask why Hitler was so interested under the deep ice in Antarctica in the mid 1930's? Hiding submarine fleets in this region doesn't add-up, especially when the initial war front was in full swing in Europe - it has no logic.
Actually, no one to this day unless being a political representative or a Vatican dignitary can freely travel independently past the 60th southern parallel into the Antartica?. Is it that global dignitaries visiting Antarctica all have the same fascination to stare at penguins all day? What's so fascinating under the Antarctica ice? - that's the big question that no one seems to know apart from US/Russian military personal who have tight lips. It's also strange, since the 1958 global Antarctica pact, no-one can freely travel in Antartica. Why did the Soviets agree to the 1958 Antartica treaty when they're situated at the Arctic? What do they know they don't want to tell us?
Also worth mentioning, early original conquistador Vatican complexes through central and south America had constructed their foundations directly over tunnel entrances - hiding them out of sight from public view.
San Augustin - Megalithic Statues
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The San Augustin statues in Southern Colombia show certain design similarities to those of the Olmec, Aztec, including those at Chavin, Easter Island and others islands in the surrounding Pacific Ocean. Skeletons of Giants have also been discovered in Colombia at Tolima and Nueve Granada archaeological sites, which may suggest and have bearing that there were different tribes of giants.
Ulta Valley - Ancash Peru
Artesonraju peak is situated in the Ulta valley and known as the Paramount logo symbol used in Hollywood for decades.
Cobblestone Colonial - Venezuela
The costal town of Coro in Falcon state has an abundant amount of quiet cobblestone streets beside washy painted colonial dwellings. The feel of Venezuela at the time this image was taken already had a sour taste of heavy socialism that was falling apart at the seams. Gasoline was 1 cent American per litre. The black market exchange rate was 25 times more than the official bank rate. A 3 month visit through the country had cost the same amount as 2 weeks travel in Brazil. Overland transit through Venezuela wasn't difficult, only time consuming, buses were overbooked, power-cuts were normal, and random highway control checks were many, with severe searches from imported Cuban military.
Getting through Venezuela today isn't worth the hi-risk factor from highway banditry, vigilante gangs, or the endless amount of corruption payouts en-route through the country by underpaid military soldiers at control checkpoints-which are many! Westerners who decide to travel through Venezuela should already have excellent interaction skills, speak and understand Spanish, and know how to use their inner instinct and judgement out on the street. If you think Brazil is bad after dark, multiply Venezuela by 100x more for the chances of being mugged, robbed, bashed, kidnapped, corrupted, or raped. I made it through Venezuela not once but twice without losing a thing, or having to pay one peso. At the end of the day, it's up to each individual to master their own level of safety precautions to outsmart whatever negativity is about to happen before it happens using split second decisions that will avoid robbery, mugging and assault.
If you can travel overland through Venezuela for 3 months without being mugged, robbed, corrupted or attacked - Give yourself a good pat on the back.
Chavin - Andean Demigod Temple
Chavin is recognised as one of the earliest known civilisations in the Andes and is nestled within a high fertile valley @3200 metres altitude..The main temple complex consists of a flat-topped pyramid design with surrounding platforms in dressed stone with an endless underground tunnel system of passageways. There's a display of carved stone with decorations portraying human animal hybrids. Many of the underground tunnels are closed off for public viewing? The Chavin temple dates back as far as 1500 BC.
Chavins dressed stone and symbolic head designs have similarities to those further south at Tiahuanaco.
High Altitude El Dorado
Remote high altitude landscape in Bolivia distinctively exposing natural rich sediments of formed mineral ore deposits well beyond the expectations of ancient El Dorado. Bolivia has large landmasses of untapped mineral resources which are now becoming increasingly valuable to the global tech industry. Today, Lithium carbonate is classified among the most strategic elements for the development of future magnetic and electric technologies. The mineral is in abundance in Bolivia. China is one of the major contributors towards Bolivian mineral and energy resources, with expanded exports of raw minerals of tin ore, tin, silver, zinc, lead, antimony, hydrocarbons and lithium carbonate. Below image - Chiquicamata copper mine northern Chile..
Le Paige Archaeological Museum - Chile
One of the original mummified remains that has now been removed from the Archaeological Museum in San Pedro.
Rumble Tumble - A Classic Leather Tannery
The global export of leather cow hides from South American tanneries is unmatched. This classic leather tannery in Colombia has been in the export business for decades exporting top quality leather hides to the US, Europe and Asia - Palmira,Valle del Cauca.
Overland Transit - Argentinian style
1950's Mercedes truck that's been converted into sleek highway house bus based in Ushuaia.
"The Peruvians are well known for their Artistic Work"
South America has a history of famous artists, sculptures and musicians. One female sculptor that really stands out with her artistic work is based in Barranco, Lima. Silvia Westphalan creates her masterpieces from stone, she transforms her designs from local stone, and forms them into simplistic art with each piece presenting amazing concepts in different shapes and forms.
Anything creative starts with a vision, Silvia Westphalan begins her stone carving with shear hard work, and sweat using only hand powered grinders, and her imagination.
A one-off pattern that gives a unique finished design of modern art sculpture formed from solid rock.
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Helpers moving a finished rock sculpture weighing more than 250 kg that's about to be wall mounted. Some of Silvia Westphalan's completed stone sculptures weigh more than 300 kilograms. Because of the many requests from different clients, and customers globally, Silvia ensures she has a wide range, and variety of stone carved art forms in a variety of all shapes and sizes to satisfy everyone's taste.
Silvia Westphalan stands in front of one of her amazing stone carved sculptured masterpieces. Sliva's designs and concepts are solely created, and shaped with a hand-held power grinder. Each completed art form is one of a kind no matter what size or weight it is. Her rock sculptures have been sold, and displayed in exhibitions around the world.
Into Carnivals? - Salvador Bahia
Latinos love their Festival events , which are spread far and wide through the entire continent with some that continue for weeks. Timing plays an important role, especially pre-booking accommodation well in advance. Carnival season in Brazil is like as though the entire country has shut down through the event. The Brazilians really know how to party hard out non-stop for a week during their yearly held carnival. I was the only foreigner among 50 others sharing a guesthouse during the Salvador carnival that wasn't robbed, some were beaten, and bashed on the street, while others were robbed twice or even 3 times during the festival. As I have always stated - "when you let your guard down - that's when you will be robbed"
Salvador carnaval in full swing on jammed packed streets mixed with rhythms of samba and loads of sweat.
Vintage Autos - The Continent is Full of Them
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One thing South America isn't short of are the amount of classic american cars and pickups scattered across the continent. Vintage V8 automobiles are sought after by car enthusiasts from the USA, and are constantly reexported back to the States from Venezuela, Bolivia, Uruguay, and Colombia. The white 1956 Ford V8 sedan with Bogota plates is an example of a mint 60 year old classic. The bare shell of the above Ford Bonus pickup was found dumped on the outskirts of a small Bolivian village on the Altiplano. Below, a 1958 Ford V8 sedan looking rough as guts with missing cosmetics, windows and bald tyres, all relative to the owner, who lives within the desert environs in Peru. As long as it runs - what's the problem.
Angel Falls - Venezuela
Angel Falls puts other waterfalls to shame - Captivating Splendour with Lasting Impressions.
The spectacular view of Angel Falls displaying the 979 meter water drop (3212 feet) - La Gran Sabana.
In 1937, Jimmy Angel, a gold and diamond entrepreneur from the USA landed his 9 star G-2-W Flamingo on the top of Auyantepui (Angel Falls) with his wife and a co-worker. He had already flown over this region 4 years earlier prospecting for mineral ore beds, and had sighted the falls as a proposed landing site. On Jimmy's 2nd visit, he had made a successful landing on the top of Auyantepui, but his plane had nose-dived at the end of the landing run, and became bogged in soft mud. It took Jimmy and his wife 11 days to cut through dense jungle terrain before reaching to the nearest settlement of Kamarata. His plane remained on top of Angel Falls until 1970, until it was salvaged by the Venezuelan military using helicopters. The entire plane was dismantled, and totally restored, and placed at the entrance of Ciudad Bolivar's airstrip. Jimmy Angel died in 1956. His ashes were scattered over Angel Falls by his wife and sons in 1960.
Reaching Angel Falls is via Ciudad Bolivar. It's advised to check with local in advance, if the Orinoco river actually has enough water depth for long boats to travel on for the the 50km journey up river. Through the dry season, Angel falls may lack water flow over the edge. Staying a few weeks getting lost in this wilderness region is totally recommended.
Hazy Sunset - Nazca Region
A captured sunset on the Pan-American highway in the desert region near the Nazca lines in southern Peru.
Climber's Graveyard - Aconcagua
An image of a high pass climbers graveyard at Los Puquios nestled in the Andes between Santiago and Mendoza during mid-winter. Every year inexperienced climbers and hikers die from various injuries with the majority of death caused from being ill-equipped ascending or decending Aconcagua (6961 metres).
Hi-Altitude Landscape
High Altitude cold-zone snap on the Andes chain in Bolivia. Thermal layered clothing required at this level.
Distance wildlife captured on hi-altitude barren desert plains @4000 metres in western Bolivia.
Amazonian Rainforest
Second and third generation pristine Amazonian rainforest is abundant, and easily seen in any direction along dirt road tracks, and passable river waterways. In saying this, many large older trees have been removed and are still being culled around the clock deep inside regions in Brazil and Peru. The majority of Amazonian timber that's removed is processed and exported to the USA, and Europe.
Desert Meets Snow - Atacama
A sprinkle of powder snow touches the edge of the Atacama desert on the Chilean/Argentinean frontier.
Iguazu Falls - Brazil
There's plenty of isolated space to hang out for the day, or to explore around Iguazu falls. The falls are most spectacular during or just after the wet season with water flowing at their highest volume. Getting to Iguazu is through Paraguay, or Argentina at the bottom border region of Brazil where the three countries meet.
Ezilon maps - Brazil - Argentina - Paraguay
Brazil Overland Transit Map
Modern Art - A Peruvian with Artistic Flair
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If you're into trendy modern art, then Alberto Grieve - A Painter & Artist, from Lima, Peru will make your visit to the capital as an added bonus. Alberto splashes his artistic hand work on canvas with vibrant streaks and colours creating one-off designs. Some of Alberto's finished canvases are 5 metres long.
Indigenous Markets
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Rising early heading out the door to open markets becomes automatic procedure through the Andean region. Each market has its own indigenous atmosphere. Capturing close-ups using zoom-lenses is the easy way out without the need of interacting with subjects. Any good point & shoot, 4/3 or DSLR camera will grab more than enough images within open markets in tribal zones.
Bolivia - Altiplano Lifestyle
Some Latinos are more than friendly, like this old timer who I had met on the street who was under the bonnet of his pickup replacing a worn fan belt. With some open interaction and good knowledge of this particular engine (272 V8 Y block) which I've owned myself decades ago, he took his time for the day to drive me around in his classic 1959 Ford V8 pickup to show me the outer environs outside and around his village - Bolivian Altiplano.
Colonial Atmosphere
Historical villas, churches, and grand haciendas from the colonial era are seen in all directions across the continent. They each have their own unique design, splendour, and ambience. The majority of colonial buildings were mainly constructed in and around, or close-by to the centre point of any original plaza de arma complex.
The cathedral above is only within 3 minutes walk from the main plaza de armas in central Lima. This particular image is heavily cropped from the original file. It was captured from long distance overlooking the Lima skyline which shows a completely different perspective of the cathedral from ground level. Getting alleviated shots can be easily done by permission with owners of any nearby building structure that has clear roof-top views.
A partial view of a church complex one block away from the plaza de armas in Sucre, Bolivia
Villa de Leyva, a unique colonial village worth visiting complete with original cobblestone pavement.
An original double level villa situated within the central area of the old city in Cartagena, Colombia.
Plaza de Armas - Every Latino Town Has One
Plaza De Armas - almost every Hispanic town or city has one. Plazas are a great chill-out place to cool off during the heat of the day. During the evening summer months they become jammed packed full of locals. Below, just a simple slab rock to sit and relaxed for a while adds to the ambience - Plazoleta de San Blas.
Lily Swamp - Central Amazon
In the heart of the Amazon basin is where one can see an endless carpet layer of water lilies. These areas are also known where alligators hang-out. It's not advisable to wade around or swim in natural black water estuaries because of snakes. The Amazonian coral snake will kill a human with severe pain before death. It's rare of alligator attacks within the Amazon region, but don't try your luck being the first foreigner hitting main news headlines of being chomped up by one.
Amazon - Cumulus Clouds
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Typical cumulus cloud formations are spotted throughout the entire Amazonian region.
Renting small motorboats to get out and about to various locations are easily found down at any port or estuary. If using dugouts, or motor driven boats on your own, it's advisable to ensure spare gas, lifejackets and food supplies are in order.
Inca - Demi-God Worshipers
Deep Underground Secret Tunnels - Elongated Paracas Skulls - Skeletons of Giants - Child Sacrificial Rituals
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Machu Picchu, there's more than enough information about this isolated Inca temple hideout. The Machu Picchu ruins show inspirations of how the Inca were such grand designers of structure, but even today, there's still a hidden mystery shroud of how large rock cut-outs were machined and layered to fit perfectly. There are certainly "unanswered" questions whether or not the Inca had actually constructed the megalithic structures, or if the structures were already there, and built by ancient technology dating back to or past the Nimrod Era of the Giants (offspring of the Nephilim). During the Spanish conquest the Jesuits had discovered deep underground tunnels that were hundreds of kilometres long. The majority of the first constructed Jesuit monasteries throughout Central and South America were built directly over the tunnel entrances to keep what ever they discovered for themselves and still remain in secrecy today. Gold, ancient artefacts, and other unknown ancient knowledge was retrieved and taken back to the Vatican's own underground secret chambers where it remains today. Many Inca ruins still remain scattered throughout the Andean block. M.P. is certainly on everyone's bucket list who transit through Peru. There are many ways to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco. The 4 day trek is the ultimate option. Visiting Machu Picchu is a must-do, and certainly a part of the South American solo overland travel and transit journey.
Looking from both sides of probably the best persevered entrance at Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu - Misty Mountain
An enchanting capture of Machu Picchu using original infra-red roll film during a 2nd visit to the temple complex.
It's a matter of luck to get clear snaps of Machu Picchu due to prevailing weather conditions. It can be completely overcast and misty with zero visibility until late afternoon, or a clear blue sky day - which is rare but it does happen. Climbing up Vannu Picchu is restricted to 400 per day, so one has to pre-purchase tickets in advance to ensure getting up there for the amazing view, or to be lucky enough that the quoter isn't filled. The above snap was captured using a Nikon AFS 14-24mm f/2.8 @ 15mm, f/16, 1/250sec, ISO 1000
Where The Rivers Meet - Central Amazon
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This is certainly one of the main attractions for both Latinos, and foreigners who end up at Manaus. The meeting of the waters are the natural converging of the two largest tributaries (Rio Negro & Solimoes) which conform a major part of the Amazon water flow. The merging of both rivers is a continuing process for approximately 7 kilometres. Local boat operators are many, and will be more than happy to assist for an agreeable price.
Las Lajas - Where Pilgrims Gather
The Las Lajas sanctuary which is considered sacred has a daily flow of visiting pilgrims. Las Lajas has a gothic styled design and structure. It's situated within an isolated region constructed across a lower portion of a valley with flowing streams and waterfalls in the Pasto region - southern Colombia.
Puerto Williams - Beagle Channel
Puerto Williams in the Beagle Channel is the lowest township of South America - it's one of the gateways to the Antarctica ice shelf. Puerto Williams is a spectacular part of the southern end of Patagonia displaying rugged forms of landscape with a variety of flora and fauna, and wildlife. The Dientes de Navarino mountain range is well known for trekkers and hiker's through the summer months. There's still descendants of the Yamana Indians at Villa Ukike village west of Puerto Williams. Jumping on board a ship to the Antarctica will become easier - and less expensive when the Chileans embark more vessels from their 2 most southern ports (Puerto Williams & Punta Arenas)
Malbec & Asado de Carne - Argentina
The majority of Latinos enjoy devouring meat, especially in Argentina where the aroma and scent of Asado de Carne (barbecued meat) will make anyone's mouth water in the vicinity of a restaurant that specialises with this delicacy. Restaurants normally grill full quarters of Beef, lamb, and goat directly from an in-house fire pit, and then served sizzling hot direct to a table with a choice of smorgasbord add-ons, including a variety of local Melbec wines.
Image: Asado beef, Salto province - northern Argentina.
Both Chilean and Argentinian wines are superbly crafted with different blends to satisfy anyone's palate. Visiting local wineries in both countries can become addictive with the opportunity of seeing a hands on view during the clipping and harvest season. It's also worth to note that some Bolivian red wines cultivated in the southern region of the country get a mention here as well. The Tarija valley bordering Argentina is well worth a visit for wine lovers.
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Tri Border Trek - Mount Roraima Wilderness
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The initial duration of a hiking trek to Roraima is a 6 day turn around. Depending how many are in a group the cost of a guide, camping gear, and food supplies will vary and can be haggled with the local tour guide operators in Santa Elena. The typical greeting on the summit of Roraima are volumes of wet mist and cloud.The topography, flora and fauna including the surrounding views are magnificent and recommended to anyone that's into natural wild wideness landscape.
A snap of the Mount Roraima landscape environs situated at the tri-borders of Venezuela, Guyana and Brazil. The Roraima mountain holds a powerful significance for the indigenous people of the region with local ancient myths and legends. Trekking to Mount Roraima takes 2 days, and highly recommended for nature, and landscape lovers. The flora and fauna on top of Mount Roraima is unique to the plateau which is why the area is called the lost world.
he slow flowing thick fog certainly creates a mysterious haunting presence on the mountain. Local guides, and gear can be found at Santa Elena.
Selfie lovers, Don't expect any help sliding off the edge at this location in the middle of nowhere.
The long Route - French Guiana : Suriname : Guyana
Getting off the beaten track isn't difficult to accomplish anywhere through the continent, although travelling through these 3 small countries will give the feel of total isolation. Transportation in general is basic through this region normally with vans and bush buses. Transiting in either direction will get you back to Brazil (Macapa or Boa Vista), Due to the Venezuelan socialist collapse, all 3 countries are now consumed with an overflow of Venezuelan refugees. Spotting wildlife, various flora and fauna, fishing, jungle and savannah hiking and free camping in the wild are all possible options.
Street Snap - Paraguay
A snap of a very young recruit on guard at the Paraguayan national guard corps-Asuncion.
Street Snap - Ecuador
Cuban type Marxist Socialist street graffiti Latino style is seen scattered far and wide through the Andean block. Nothing much has changed in Ecuador for decades. On-going internal political issues, debt, strikes, unemployment and high-crime has plagued the country. The collapse of Socialist Venezuela has added the burden of thousands of Venezuelan refugees fleeing into Ecuador. Walking around solo after dark in Quito should be avoided, unless you want to feel how it is to be aggressively robbed and mugged.
Salar Reflections - A Natural Water Blanket
At the time this image was captured heavy rains had flooded a small area of the salar salt flats that not only showed a reflective sky, but also a clean clear partition of the water blanket edge on the salar itself. Image: Salar de Uyuni - Bolivia
This snap looks as if it was taken along a rugged cactus sea coast shoreline, but it's actually a small island within the centre of a large salt salar in the Bolivian Altiplano @ 3650 metres altitude.
Grabbing Street Snaps
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Street photography is more of a broad term defined on anything that's appealing to the person taking the snap. Taking random street portraits are certainly a large part of any street photographer's collective folio. Today, every man and his dog use cell phones snapping away selfies, so actually it's become much easier in one way to randomly photograph people on any given street without too much fuss or bother. The majority of Latinos are usually very relaxed with foreigners grabbing random snaps of them publicly.
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There are some who may dislike being photographed, which should be automatically recognised and respected. One example of negative flack, which is nothing new, and has been ongoing for years is within certain parts of the main fruit and vegetable market in old La Paz. Pointing a lens in the direction at local vendors - even at long distance may quickly become aggressive. It's a different story if a cash payout is involved. The easiest way around this, is to first interact without exposing cameras. Chit chatting and purchasing fruit, or snacks normally works with most locals - But not all. This applies almost anywhere throughout all the continents. Interacting first is key to capturing close-up street portraits.
Victor Delfin - Sculptor & Artist with Creative Flair
Victor Delfin residence and workshop - Domeyer 366, Barranco, Lima - more info
Victor Delfin from Lima Peru is widely recognised, and widely known for his contemporary designs, and artistic flair. His carvings, sculptures, and artwork must be seen to be appreciated of the scope, scale, and magnitude of each finished concept and design. His work is shown in major museums throughout South America, USA, and Europe. Delfin uses all types of materials from sheet metal, steel, alloy, wood, polychrome acrylics and canvas. You may be lucky enough to still catch him working on a concept at his workshop studio in Barranco, Lima.
Victor Delfin finishing the final touches of a relief mural showing depicting peasants caught between Maoist guerrillas and the army through the 1980-2000 conflict at his workshop studio in Lima.
Victor Delfin's immaculate studio workshop where his sculptures and artwork masterpieces are created. Below, a big cat constructed from raw sheet metal in its finally stages at Victor Delfin's metal workshop.
GeoThermo - 4800 Metres Altitude
Sol de Mañana is well worth a visit situated in the south-western region of Bolivia. It's a high altitude geothermal region that's constantly active. Bubbling mud pools, and the hissing and spit of pressured steam forced into the atmosphere is visibly witnessed.
Argentina - Great Outdoors
Travelling through Argentina is a breeze using local luxury deluxe buses. This is a different story if driving your own vehicle, especially with foreign number plates i.e. Brazilian or Chilean. Corrupt pay-off bribes to local highway control police does happen at different provinces through the country. On several occasions, I've personally encountered bribe pay-offs to allow passage through control security barriers.
I've always made sure to have a large supply of palta (avocados) and packets of cigarettes that can be visibly seen on the front seat and on top of the dash in my Kombi vans. Other foreigners driving their own vehicles haven't been so lucky, because of not knowing the tricks to freely pass through the country without paying large sums of cash bribes.
South America's Dark Side
South America has a well known history full of corruption, embezzlement, and extortion. Street drug sellers, and dealers have been a global trend for decades with South America being right up there as one of the top continents for local drug sales and off-shore exports. Cocaine and opium production in Bolivia, Peru, and Colombia is in full swing, and won't cease as long as there's a lucrative market selling addictive drugs - which with no doubt most western world countries crave on. Without exception, every man and his dog that are involved marketing cocaine today (2019) has become more rife than it ever was when Pablo Escobar was running the show. One of the many main players today in South America who have set up shop over a decade ago are the Hezbollah from Lebanon. The Iranians are also dabbling in South America controlling illegal open gold pit mines. The multi-million dollar Lebanese drug laundering operation is a large portion of the cocaine, and opioids coming out of South America, which ends up in Europe, and the USA. Latinos who do use cocaine prefer the white powder rather than smoking gunja.
The locals who can't afford cocaine usually buy and smoke the wastage (Pasta) from distillery labs where the cocaine is manufactured. A quarter of all gasoline sold in Colombia is used for distilling cocaine. Image: a local street drug seller - South America.
Razor Wire - It's Not For Decoration
If you come from a country that's riddled with razor wire, then you'll feel right at home throughout South America. Razor wire isn't curled through a fence for added beauty - it's there for one purpose, to keep thieves, robbers, and muggers on the other side. 70% of the time razor wire attached to fences does its job, but like in the above image a pair of large wire cutters will easily be able to hack through the lower fence within a few minutes, unless 2 or 3 large dogs on the property sound off the alarm. As a tourist when leaving a secure compound in South America you're on your own with only what street instinct one has learnt. Foreigners that are robbed and mugged through the continent usually think it won't happen to them, and were totally unaware of what was happening around them before they became a target. This is the direct fault of the tourist - a lack of street instinct and awareness. Foreign tourists are robbed, bashed and mugged around the clock in South America, but you won't hear this from local tourist operators, or from the media because it tarnishes the tourism trade. The influx of foreign tourism into lazy slow living coastal communities is also to blame for the ever increasing non-stop crime waves through the continent.
Old Man Cacti - Andean Region
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South American old man cacti (Cephalocereus senilis) is easily recognised by its whitish webs of hair which plays as a deterrent for stopping direct heat penetration. Flowering begins after the cacti reaches heights over 6 metres (20ft) and continue to grow up to 12 metres tall in the right temperate conditions. Flowers only bloom and open at night exposing pastel pink and white colours. Old man cacti are seen in the Andean regions within canyons, and mountainous areas of Argentina, Bolivia and Peru.
Grave Robbers - Chauchilla
Close to Nazca in the desert is the ancient cemetery known as Chauchila. It's here where one can see mummified human remains. Through the centuries most of the deceased were up dug up from their tombs and robbed of their jewellery, and whatever other artefacts that were worth robbing. Patches of human skeletal remains can still be seen scattered in the desert, and has of late become a haven for visitors transiting trough the region.
Wild Cannabis - South America
Illegal marijuana cultivation through South America has been around for countless decades. It's something that's been ignored by authorities ever since cocaine became a lucrative global hit, and now especially of late due to positive legalisation of cannabis through most of the continent. Wild weed hybrid strains can be spotted in remote regions well away from main tourist ghetto hot spots. Small time illegal growers don't even bother pulling up male plants. Deer including other different wildlife end up devouring wastage hemp. One has to imagine the gross volume of illegal marijuana that's been cultivated within wildness regions throughout the continent. Even though many Latinos have preferred other forms of creational drugs, cannabis has always been readily available, and easily sourced when required. Ecuador, Peru, Colombia and Venezuela certainly have their fair share of supply and demand for locally grown weed - Guyana, Surinam included. Latino wild weed may have different strains through the continent but no one really cares. Next time you're out and about somewhere between the Pacific coast and the Andes, or from the Atlantic ocean to the Amazon basin, one can be lucky enough to discover hemp plants scattered here and there that don't belong to narco crops. If you do suddenly walk in to a cultivated patch of weed - don't hang around too long unless you want to become cannabis fertiliser.
Home Sweet Home
Isolated dwellings stretch far and wide across the continent nestled within all types of rugged landscape. The Bolivian altiplano and Patagonia districts are two places where some locals choose to live well away from city life. Both regions are very sparsely populated, or uninhabited due to the severity of the freezing cold winter months when extreme temperatures hit well below sub-zero. Travelling and transiting through South America for most foreigners is a rewarding experience of diversity that's different to their own lifestyle and culture, especially with dwellings and property lifestyles. One can't notice or forget the countless amounts of Barrios which are normally seen scattered across the backdrop of large city skylines. Some Barrios are formed and constructed up the sides of hills, or nestled at the foot of mountains on the outer perimeter of large cities. Most major Latin cities like Lima, Bogota, Rio, and Quito all have their own unique Barrios. The residents share the same dreams and passions like anyone else - A home with a roof over their heads.
Below, a barrio quarter slanted on the lower slopes of a hill side situated on the outskirts of central Lima
Below, a tiny classic Latino cottage constructed from aged hardwood with milled 8"inch rough sawn planks.
1980's & 90's Roll Film Snaps
Those who have travelled considerably through the decades would have usually accumulated piles of roll-film snaps. Maybe some images weren't of interest back then, with only a few randomly selected as enlargements. Today, classic roll-film street images from the 1980-90's era are worth more value than what they were when first captured. With all the high-tech digital formatting available, roll-film images can be easily enhanced keeping their simplistic colour and grainy finish. The desire of many street photographers today want that same by-gone era look. The countless amounts of smart phone and digital camera presets offering classic style finishes is proof alone for those who want the switch-back finish. Those who do have travel negatives from the 20th century hidden away somewhere in storage can easily get them converted to digital.
South America In 3 Months - What?
