In the last decade there has been a marked upsurge in interest for South America as a travel destination. This was particularly notable after the 2001 terror attacks. Presumably as an overwhemlingly christian (Catholic in fact) continent it was viewed as a safe option by some people . Reasonable logic although ironic when you consider the crime patterns of Rio or Lima.

Just two airlines operate from Australia (actually just Sydney) and South America:

Lan Chile to Santiago (this service is also a code share with Qantas)

Aerolineas Argentineas to Buenos Aires.

Sure you can always fly to Los Angeles and then onto South America from there but it is a much longer way and rarely much cheaper especially if you want to stay for longer than 30 or 60 days. And no one transits through the US unless absolutely necessary.

The seasons are equally as simple. December, January and February are high season and the rest of the year is low season. With such a limited choice you do not score many bargains to South America although at least Lan Chile is increasing its services and using a larger aircraft than previously so there will be more supply at last.

South America is not a particularly cheap area in which to travel (and its the worse area of the world for excessive - indeed exploitative - airport taxes) and if you intend to take multiple flights within the continent then you might need to think again as the cost will build up.

The good news is that with Lan Chile, Lan Peru, Iberia and British Airways all in the One World Alliance, South America is easily incorporated into a round-the world itinerary which was not always the case in the past. Indeed even if you don't want to circumnavigate the globe you might have to if you intend to take a number of flights within the continent and want to keep the ticket prices under control. It doesn't take long before a round the world ticket becomes a better option.

Like Africa you can travel throughout South America on your own but do not assume that everyone will speak English and backpacking without passable Spanish or Portugese is difficult. Plus street crime in many areas (for example all Brazilian cities is formidable).

The following is essential travel information for visitors to South America. This is not an exhaustive list but centres on those countries most likely visited by Australians. It includes visa advice and the location of Australian consular assistance. Always view this information in conjunction with the advice of the government's smartraveller website - some of these destinations have strong warnings.