Can you Drive to South America from North America?

WONDERING… CAN YOU DRIVE TO SOUTH AMERICA FROM NORTH AMERICA?

As someone who as has traveled from North to South America, I can see the allure of such a journey. So, can you drive to South America from North America? The answer is not a simple yes or no. It is a bit more complicated than that!

Let me show you why below along with all of the detail you need to complete this journey yourself.

Can you Drive to South America from North America?

Yes, you can drive to South America from North America on the Pan-American Highway, the longest highway in the world. However, there is a “gap” in the journey. This gap is a stretch of land in Central America known as the Darien Gap. It’s about 100 miles of marshland and forest that you can’t traverse by vehicle.

While it’s not a driving route per se, don’t be disheartened! There are several workarounds that adventurous souls have found over the years.

How to Cross the Darien Gap with a Vehicle?

Darien Forest - - can you drive to south america

The Darien Gap, the only thing standing between you and the continuous drive from North to South America, isn’t an obstacle you can overcome with a 4×4 and sheer will. So, how do you bridge this void?

Options to Cross Darien Gap

While you can’t drive through, you certainly can bypass the Darien Gap. There are three options to get your vehicle across this expanse, each with its pros and cons.

1: Shipping Companies | RoRo Services

RoRo services are an often-used method to transport vehicles across the Darien Gap. As the name implies (Roll-on/Roll-off), these are specially designed ships that allow vehicles to be driven on and off. While generally cost-effective, the risk with RoRo services is potential damage or theft since vehicles are exposed on the deck.

Cost: Typically cost between $1100 and $1500 USD.

Suggested Companies:
Seaboard Marine: With an extensive network, Seaboard Marine is a popular choice among travelers.
Hoegh Autoliners: A leading global provider of RoRo vehicle transportation services, Hoegh Autoliners is known for its comprehensive service and wide coverage.

2: Shipping via a Container

Another method is container shipping, where your vehicle is loaded into a sealed container and transported on a cargo ship. While slightly more expensive, it offers better protection for your vehicle.

Cost: Typically cost between $1500 and $2000 USD.

Suggested Companies:
APL (American President Lines): APL is one of the world’s leading ocean carriers, providing comprehensive container shipping services to and from various ports across the globe.
MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company): As a world leader in container shipping, MSC provides an extensive route network, linking ports around the globe.

3: Use a Professional Logistics Company

Although the most expensive option, opting for a professional logistics company to facilitate your vehicle’s journey across the Darien Gap can make your adventure considerably smoother. They handle all the intricacies of the shipping process – from paperwork to customs clearance, and ensure that your vehicle is safely transported from one port to another.

Cost: Typically cost between $2000 and $2500 USD.

Tips for Shipping Your Car Across the Darien Gap

Shipping your car across the Darien Gap can be a daunting task, but with the right planning and preparation, it can be a seamless process. Here are some key tips to consider:

Choose the Right Shipping Option: As mentioned earlier, you have several options, including Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) services, container shipping, and using a professional logistics company. The choice largely depends on your budget, vehicle type, and personal preferences. (See prices below)
Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for the journey. Remove all personal belongings if you’re using RoRo services.
Customs and Documentation: Be prepared with all necessary paperwork. This might include your vehicle title, registration, passport, driver’s license, and possibly a power of attorney form.
Plan Your Timing: The shipping process can take several weeks, so plan your trip accordingly. Keep in mind that unforeseen delays may occur.
Get Everything in Writing: Always get all agreements in writing, and ensure you fully understand all the terms before signing.
Verify Your Shipping Company: Thoroughly research your chosen shipping company or logistics provider. Look at reviews and testimonials from other travelers who have made the same journey.
Stay Patient and Flexible: Remain patient and flexible. Delays and hiccups are common in international shipping.
Get Connected with Other Travelers: Join online forums and groups for people driving to South America. Their experiences, tips, and recommendations can be invaluable.

How Much Does it Cost to Drive to South America?

One of the most common questions when planning such a monumental trip is, “How much does it cost to drive to South America?”

Costs can vary widely depending on a host of factors, including the type of vehicle you’re driving, fuel efficiency, the route you take, accommodation choices, your eating habits, and unexpected costs such as vehicle maintenance and repairs.

How Much Does it Cost to Drive the Pan-American Highway?

Fuel: Depending on your vehicle’s efficiency and current gas prices, expect to budget between $3000 – $5000.
Food and Drink: Assuming a moderate budget for eating out and buying groceries, plan for $2500 – $3000 for a 3-month journey.
Accommodation: Costs can range significantly from camping to hotels. If you balance between camping, hostels, and occasional hotels, budget around $1000 – $2000.
Shipping across the Darien Gap: As we mentioned before, this can cost between $1000 – $2500.
Tourist Activities, Park Fees, Tolls, and Permits: Allocate about $2000 – $3000 for these expenses.
Insurance and Miscellaneous Costs: Depending on the countries you’re visiting and the coverage you need, insurance costs can vary. Along with other miscellaneous costs, plan for about $1000 – $2000.

Total Cost: $11,000 – $18,000 USD for a 3-6 month trip

How Long Would It Take to Drive to South America?

If you were to drive non-stop, covering the distance from Alaska to Argentina, its southernmost end, it would take approximately 170-900 hours. However, this is purely hypothetical and doesn’t factor in sleep, meals, refueling, rest breaks, or any other interruptions.

In reality, considering the lengthy journey that encompasses diverse landscapes, climates, and cultural experiences, a more leisurely and realistic timeframe would span anywhere between 6 months to 2 years, allowing time to explore and soak in the experiences along the way.

How Long Would It Take to Drive Across Central America?

Costa Rica - can you drive to south america

If you choose to immerse yourself fully in the region, it could take approximately one month. This estimation includes time spent visiting historical landmarks, indulging in local cuisine and engaging in outdoor adventures.

Central America is relatively small in size, spanning just over 2000 miles, and theoretically, it could be driven in under a week. However, to appreciate the depth of this culturally vibrant region, a longer duration is recommended. Have a look at some of the interesting things you can see in Nicaragua alone.

How Long Would It Take to Cross the Darien Gap?

The Darien Gap, while physically spanning only about 100 miles, could take about 5-7 days to navigate due to logistical reasons. This is the one segment of the Pan-American Highway where you can’t actually drive, and your vehicle must be shipped.

Variables such as weather, paperwork, shipping schedules, and bureaucratic red tape could potentially add more time to this estimate, so it’s best to allot a flexible window for this segment of your journey.

Is It Safe to Drive to South America?

While there are risks associated with any long-distance journey, with the right precautions and preparations… Yes, it can be safe to drive to South America.

Is the Pan American Highway Safe?

Yes, generally speaking, the Pan American Highway is safe for travel. There are places with well-maintained roads and others where the condition is less than ideal, with potholes, lack of signage, or poor lighting.

It’s a good idea to avoid driving at night whenever possible. Traffic rules may be loosely followed in some areas, so defensive driving is key.

Staying Safe While Driving through Central America

Safety in Central America can vary greatly from one country to the next and even within different regions of the same country. Honduras and El Salvador, for example, have high crime rates, but tourists pass through without incident.

Simply, avoid traveling at night, stick to the main roads, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Staying Safe While Crossing the Darien Gap

The Darien Gap is an area that presents unique challenges. Due to its remote and inaccessible nature, it’s not safe or feasible to attempt crossing it by land.

Therefore, simply using reputable shipping services to transport your vehicle is the safest option here.

Staying Safe While Driving in South America

In South America, safety conditions can vary widely. Countries like Chile and Uruguay have relatively low crime rates, while others, like Venezuela and certain parts of Brazil, can pose higher risks.

Again, sticking to main roads, keeping a low profile, and avoiding night driving can go a long way to ensure your safety. Also, be aware of the altitudes in the Andean countries, where altitude sickness can be an issue.

FAQs: Can you Drive to South America

We often get many questions about the feasibility and logistics of driving to South America. Here, we’ll tackle some of the most frequently asked ones.

Is the Pan American Highway Safe?

Yes. The Pan American Highway is safe to drive. However, safety can depend on various factors like your specific route, the countries you traverse, and your behavior. It’s advisable to avoid night driving, stick to main roads, and always stay alert to your surroundings.

How Much Does it Cost to Cross the Darien Gap?

Crossing the Darien Gap involves shipping your vehicle across as it’s not possible to drive through it. The cost of shipping can range from $1000 to $2500 depending on your vehicle’s size, the shipping method (RORO or container), and the shipping company you choose.

Can you Drive through the Darien Gap?

No, you cannot drive through the Darien Gap. The Darien Gap is a stretch of swampland and forest with no roads, making it impossible to drive through. The best and safest way to cross this region is to ship your vehicle.

How is the Quality of Life in South America?

South America is an amazing place to visit or live in, but it can come with some dangers. Take a look at this full guide to living in South America.

Has Anyone Ever Driven to South America?

Yes, several adventurers and travelers have successfully driven to South America from North America. While it’s a challenging and lengthy journey, it’s possible with proper planning, vehicles, equipment, preparation, and a sense of adventure.

Can I Camp Along the Way?

Yes, there are many free and paid camping spots along the way if that is what you’re looking to do. Check out some of the must-have camping and parking apps to help you find these locations.

Is There a Road to South America?

Yes, there is a road to South America. The Pan-American Highway is a network of roads stretching from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, in North America to Ushuaia, Argentina, in South America, spanning about 19,000 miles. However, there’s a 100-mile interruption known as the Darien Gap, between Panama and Colombia, where there are no roads.

Why is There No Road Through the Darien Gap?

There’s no road through the Darien Gap due to a combination of factors. The region consists of dense rainforests, swamps, rivers, and mountains, making it difficult to build a road. Moreover, preserving this area is important for environmental and indigenous rights reasons.

Can you Drive to Argentina from The US?

Yes, it’s possible to drive from the US to Argentina, primarily using the Pan-American Highway. It’s a long journey of thousands of miles that will take you through various landscapes and climates. However, remember that you’ll need to ship your vehicle around the Darien Gap.

Can you drive to Brazil From the United States?

Yes, you can drive to Brazil from the United States. The journey will take you through Central America, across the Darien Gap (where your vehicle must be shipped), and through South America. It’s worth noting that depending on your route, you may need to obtain additional visas and adhere to different road regulations.

Can you drive to Peru From the United States?

Yes, you can drive to Peru from the United States. This epic journey will take you down the Pan-American Highway, through Central America, across the Darien Gap, and into South America. Remember to stay informed about road conditions, visa requirements, and safety advisories throughout your journey.

Conclusion: Can you Drive to South America

So, can you drive to South America from North America? The answer is a resounding yes, albeit with a bit of a caveat – you’ll need to ship your vehicle around the Darien Gap.

But aside from that, the journey is entirely possible, and not only that, it is an extraordinary adventure that will take you through some of the world’s most diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences. You’ll drive along the world’s longest motorable road, the Pan-American Highway, covering vast deserts, towering mountain ranges, lush rainforests, and bustling cities.

Remember, the journey is not just about reaching your final destination; it’s about the experiences, memories, and friendships you’ll make along the way.

If you’re looking for beautiful places to explore in South America, you will enjoy 👉 15 Best Cities in South America for Travellers & Expats