What comes to mind when we say ‘South America’? Jungles and raging waterfalls? Salsa dancing and Carnival? Or do you get distracted by one of the misconceptions about this place — that it’s a little risky to tour through, or tough to get around?

As a land steeped with mythology, South America is rich in story. Yet greater fictions are usually found in its modern travel furphies. As nations like Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, et al. become some of the world’s top travel destinations, we thought we’d take the hammer to the more enduring myths that might be preventing you from opting for a Latin love affair over more tried and tested international flings.

From language to safety, culture and beyond: here are the realities. Take it all in, and start pointing that compass for the incredible adventures that await on other side of the Pacific.

Myth #1: You’ll Get Sick

From the rigours of Delhi belly to the punishing spectacle of the Constantinople trots, bouts of sickness are another (admittedly less glamorous) aspect of the travel adventure. New cuisines sometimes lead to gastric adversity and, while not a given, Montezuma’s Revenge can be a thing. Indulging in the new is a risk that should always be taken stomach-first. Lest we forget the words of the great Tony Bourdain: “Good food, good eating, is all about risk.”

Food aside, tropical climes like South America can wreak temporary havoc on your immune system for multiple reasons. But the key word is ‘temporary’. Depending on the country, it’s not a bad idea to steer clear from drinking the tap water. Get any crucial vaccinations before you leave, pack some electrolytes and Imodium, and take it as it comes. If nothing else, fleeting discomfort might yield some righteous stories for your travel blog, or the roundtable waiting at home for your valiant return.

Myth #2: Everyone Speaks Spanish

Not so, friends. Spanish is the second most-prevalent language in South America — numero uno is Portuguese (with its population of over 205 million, you can thank Brazil for that). Of course, it’s worth remembering that a bunch of different lingo is tossed about in South America, to say nothing of the countless accents, inflections and compositions that greet you from hub to hub — indigenous Quechua, Guarani, Aymara, Mapudungún, to cite a few (as well as a dose of post-colonial English, French and Dutch).

Above all, the take home point is to never let language perception stop you from going places. Embrace diversity, be open to a new lexicon, and relish in the joys of non-verbal connection in the hospitality of friendly locals.

Myth #3: Getting Around Is Really Hard Work

For years, travel between cities and towns in South America was often conducted in colourful tin-can buses that sported as much suspension as a soviet-era Trabant. While you can still find these rides (more so in Central America), bus transport today is a lot slicker in many South American countries: air-conditioned, cheap, and much more comfortable.

With a well-honed circuit of transits — not to mention affordable accommodation (and generally decent cost of living) — South America remains one of the most backpacker-friendly travel regions in the world.

Of course, nothing beats taking to the travellers’ circuit in a relaxed, immersive, ethically-run group setting. Tours offer incredible, up-close and personal South American odysseys that not only help you get around easier, but get you on a first-name basis with the people, places and communities you meet along the road.

Myth #4: Healthcare Is A Little Light On

Hypochondriacs and the risk averse might baulk at the thought of traipsing the Amazon without adequate access to decent healthcare. The jungle is the jungle, baby, and it always pays to be careful. But the truth is, most South American countries are equipped with a basic public health system where foreigners can see a doctor or nurse at very low cost. Arm yourself with comprehensive travel insurance, take care, and you don’t have much to worry about at all.

Myth #5: It’s Dangerous

Many people (okay, mostly your parents) believe that a stint in South America will inevitably lead to one being mugged in a clandestine alley at some point, whereby your wallet, passport, iPhone, laptop and shoes will be pinched in one fell swoop. South American countries are home to a number of large-scale urban hubs, many of them rife with inequality and pockets of crime. Like anywhere, some parts are worth baulking.

But does this mean that you shouldn’t go at all? (You know the answer to this). Wherever you go, it pays to be aware: talk to locals, use common sense, and read up on your destinations beforehand. Store any fat rolls of cash at the hotel, and keep your passport and plastic safe.

Myth #6: It’s Too Far Away

While South America might seem like a long haul, flights from Sydney or Melbourne to Santiago will only set you back around 12 hours (that’s a day and half’s work of hefty slumber or a Lord of the Rings marathon). With regular fares and higher demand come cheaper deals too.

Myth #8: You Have To Be Able To Dance

That’s for you to debunk, friend. In South America you’ll find salsa, you’ll find samba, you’ll find cha-cha-cha, rumba, paso doble mambo, merengue, bachata, bomba, plena, and the Argentine tango. Locals here, on the whole, like to shake it, and each rhythm is nation-specific.

But being down on your capabilities is no big deal! With every maven comes the novice. Dancing is not mandatory (but it helps).

Myth #9: You’ll Fall In Love

Of course this isn’t guaranteed… but it does happen. A friend of mine travelled to Argentina years back and returned home engaged, pregnant, fluent in Spanish, and rearing to head back as soon as possible. A jaunt through South America can be a bona fide life-changer — in so many more ways than one.

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G Adventures is an adventure travel pioneer offering the planet’s most awe-inspiring selection of affordable small-group tours, safaris, and expeditions. Visit their website to learn more.

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Lead image: Douglas Scortegagna/Flickr