The best vehicle for the Pan American Highway is a rugged SUV or pickup truck with high clearance and good off-road capabilities. It should also have good fuel economy and a reliable maintenance record for long-distance travel. Ideal for carrying camping gear and supplies.
If you’re looking for an adventurous, panoramic journey through the Americas and beyond, a drive down the Pan-American Highway promises to be full of wonder.
Spanning over 16,000 miles across 14 countries – from Alaska in North America down to Argentina in South America – your trip could take anything between three months and two years!
To ensure this voyage is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, you must choose the right vehicle, depending on how long or short you want this incredible road trip experience to last.
In this article, we’ll discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing a vehicle to drive across the Pan-American Highway.
We’ll compare various models of vehicles to help you determine the best one for such a road trip.
Factors for choosing a vehicle for the Pan American Highway
The Pan American Highway is a journey of about 19,000 miles if you travel through the conventional route. Depending on your route and the number of hours you drive daily, the journey can take between 3 months and two years.
The journey will also take you across 14 countries with different weather and climate. Even if you travel during the summer in the United States, the chances of encountering snow are high.
Additionally, the further you travel south, the more likely you’ll experience heavy rain. And you can’t tell what the condition on the inner roads will be like.
In light of these realities, these are the factors you should consider when choosing a vehicle if you wish to navigate the Pan American Highway with ease.
You may also like: 12 Pan American Highway Facts You Didn’t Know
Size and capacity
Traveling for over three months and above, you want to consider how you’ll sleep, what the vehicle can carry, and inside livability.
Ultimately, the size of your vehicle really depends on your desired comfort levels and if you have a travel companion.
If you travel in a small and cramped vehicle, you may need to spend more money on hostels, campsites, or Airbnb.
You also want to be able to sleep anywhere without police interference. Some countries do not encourage camping on the streets.
While smaller vehicles may have better fuel mileage, you want to ensure a balance with comfort. Otherwise, you’ll spend the money you are saving for fuel on housing expenses.
Off-road capability
To capture the true spirit of the Pan American Highway experience, you’ll have to make many trips off the main highways.
You cannot tell the condition of these roads beforehand. At the very least, you want to be able to traverse rugged roads, mountain passes, and murky semi-swampy roads.
The best vehicle for the Pan American Highway is relatively lightweight, has a high clearance, is not too big, and has proper all-terrain tires.
With this combination, there are no limits to where you can go.
Fuel efficiency
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), at over 15,000 miles of driving, a vehicle with 30 miles per gallon (MPG) fuel efficiency will save you $780 over a vehicle with 20 MPG.
You could save approximately $1,000 traversing the Pan American Highway (19,000 miles) with a 30-MPG vehicle instead of one rated 20-MPG.
Imagine how much more you can save driving a vehicle with a fuel efficiency above 30 MPG.
You can then spend this extra money on other things during the trip.
Maintenance and repair availability
What happens if your car has a major breakdown? Do you need to ship the parts from the US, or are the vehicle parts readily available in your host nation? The latter is more convenient.
Hence, consider vehicles that are also popular and sold within Latin America.
That said, in Latin America, you’ll only find the diesel-engine variants of some gasoline-engine vehicles available in the United States. You should also consider this when purchasing a car for your Pan American Highway adventure.
Safety features
When planning a long-distance road trip like the Pan American Highway, it’s important to consider the safety features of your vehicle.
Features like airbags, ABS brakes, and stability control can greatly increase your chances of avoiding an accident.
In addition, vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as lane departure warnings and forward collision warnings, can provide added protection on the road.
Climate control
Climate control is another important factor to consider when choosing a vehicle for the Pan American Highway.
The route passes through a wide range of climates, including deserts, mountains, and tropical rainforests.
A vehicle with air conditioning and heating can help make your trip more comfortable, especially in extreme temperatures.
Vehicle insurance
it is important to ensure that your vehicle insurance covers long-distance travel, including foreign countries.
Many insurance companies offer special policies for road trip enthusiasts, so make sure to check with your provider before starting your journey.
It is also advisable to check with the embassy of the country you’re traveling to, as some countries require a special type of insurance.
4 best vehicles for the Pan American highway
Having considered all the necessary factors, it’s time to explore some popular vehicle options that are well-suited for the Pan American Highway.
Whether you’re looking for a rugged SUV or a reliable pickup truck, there are many options available that can provide you with the comfort, safety, and capability you need for this epic journey.
1. SUVs
SUVs, or sport utility vehicles, are an excellent choice for the Pan American Highway. It’s a loose term that defines a wide range of vehicles with four-wheel drive with off-road characteristics such as higher ground clearance and a rugged appearance, making it perfect for outdoor ventures.
Let’s have a look at some SUV models suited for this purpose.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is an excellent choice for the Pan American Highway, as it is a well-engineered compact crossover SUV that comes equipped with all the standard features you need for this long-distance journey.
With its high clearance, advanced safety features, and good fuel economy, this vehicle is designed to handle the diverse terrain and conditions found along the route.
Additionally, Tucson has a spacious interior and ample storage capacity, making it a comfortable and practical option for travelers.
It is also known for its reliability and easy maintenance, which is an important aspect to consider when traveling long distances.
The Hyundai Tucson is a great option for those looking for a compact SUV that can handle the challenges of the Pan American Highway while providing comfort, safety, and reliability.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a powerful and rugged mid-size SUV that is well-suited for the demands of the Pan American Highway.
With its advanced 4-wheel drive system, high clearance, and off-road capabilities, this vehicle is designed to tackle even the most challenging terrain.
The Grand Cherokee comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features and a spacious interior, providing both comfort and protection for long-distance travel.
The basic design philosophy of the Jeep Grand Cherokee complies with the requirements of an SUV, making it an excellent option for those looking for a reliable and capable vehicle for their Pan American Highway adventure.
Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV that is an ideal choice for long-distance travel on the Pan American Highway.
With its spacious interior and advanced features, this vehicle is designed to provide maximum comfort and safety for its passengers.
The Ford Expedition comes equipped with an all-wheel-drive system, which provides added traction and stability on a variety of road surfaces, making it a great option for the diverse terrain found along the route.
The vehicle has a high clearance that allows it to handle rough roads and uneven surfaces, and it also has a good fuel economy, which is ideal for long-distance travel.
Additionally, the Ford Expedition is known for its reliability, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a dependable and comfortable SUV for their Pan American Highway adventure.
Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV that is well-suited for the Pan American Highway. With its robust 4-wheel drive system, high clearance, and off-road capabilities, this vehicle is designed to handle even the most challenging terrain.
The Land Cruiser is a rugged and dependable SUV that can handle rough roads and uneven surfaces, making it an ideal vehicle for the diverse terrain found along the Pan American Highway.
The Land Cruiser also offers a spacious and comfortable interior, providing ample room for passengers and their belongings.
Pros
Here are some of the Pros of SUVs
Off-road capabilities
SUVs are designed with off-road driving in mind, making them well-suited for the diverse terrain found along the route.
Features such as high ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and robust suspension systems help to provide better traction and stability on rough roads.
Comfort
SUVs are generally larger and more spacious than other types of vehicles, providing more room for passengers and their belongings.
This can make a long journey much more comfortable, especially if you plan to spend extended periods of time on the road.
Cargo space
SUVs also have plenty of space in the trunk, making it easier to carry the necessary equipment and gear for a long journey.
This can be especially helpful for those planning to camp along the way, as you’ll have room to store your camping gear, supplies, and other essentials.
Safety
SUVs often come with advanced safety features such as airbags, ABS brakes, and stability control, providing added protection for passengers in case of an accident.
Many SUVs also come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as lane departure warnings and forward collision warnings, which can help to prevent accidents.
Climate control
SUVs often come with air conditioning and heating systems, which can be beneficial in extreme temperatures and help to keep passengers comfortable.
This is especially important when traveling through regions with hot or cold climates.
Durability
SUVs are generally built to be more rugged and durable than other types of vehicles, making them well-suited for long-distance travel.
They have a higher ground clearance, which helps to prevent damage from rough roads, and are often equipped with larger tires that can handle more wear and tear.
Towing capability
Many SUVs come with towing capability, which allows you to tow a small trailer or a small boat, it can be helpful if you’re planning to take a long road trip and want to take your own camping gear or if you want to stop by a lake or beach.
Cons
Here are some of the cons of SUVs for the Pan American Highway
Fuel efficiency
SUVs are generally less fuel-efficient than other types of vehicles, which can make them more expensive to operate on a long trip.
This can be a concern for travelers who are trying to save money on gas or who are trying to reduce their carbon footprint.
Cost
SUVs can be more expensive to purchase and insure than smaller vehicles. This can be a problem for travelers who are looking for a budget-friendly option, especially if they are planning a long-distance trip.
Environmental impact
SUVs also emit more greenhouse gases than smaller vehicles, which can be a concern for travelers who are trying to reduce their environmental impact. This can be a concern for travelers who are trying to reduce their carbon footprint.
Size
SUVs are generally larger than other types of vehicles, which can make them more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces such as narrow roads, parking lots, or small streets. They can also be harder to park in tight spots.
Weight
SUVs are generally heavier than other types of vehicles, which can make them more difficult to handle on rough roads or when making tight turns. They also require more maintenance than smaller vehicles and often require more frequent oil changes and tire rotations.
2. Trucks
Trucks are a great option when it comes to off-road capabilities, ground clearance, and suspension systems.
With their body-on-frame construction, trucks are built to withstand rugged terrain and provide a higher level of durability compared to other vehicles.
The off-road capabilities of trucks are superior thanks to their 4-wheel drive system and high ground clearance, which allows them to easily traverse through rough terrain, muddy roads, and loose gravel.
They also have a better approach and departure angle, which allows them to climb steep inclines and descend steep declines with ease.
The suspension system of trucks is also designed to handle heavy loads and rough terrain, providing a smooth ride even on the bumpiest of roads.
Here are some truck models to consider
Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that is an excellent choice for the Pan American Highway, offering a unique combination of fuel efficiency, towing and payload capabilities, and off-road capabilities.
The Ford Maverick comes equipped with a standard hybrid engine, making it one of the most fuel-efficient pickup trucks on the market.
This feature is important when planning a long-distance road trip, as it can help you save money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint.
The Ford Maverick also offers impressive towing and payload capabilities, making it a great choice for travelers who want to bring along a small trailer or a small boat or who want to carry a lot of gear or supplies.
The vehicle also has a high ground clearance, which helps it to handle rough roads and uneven surfaces, and it also has a good fuel economy, which is ideal for long-distance travel.
Additionally, the Ford Maverick is known for its reliability, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a dependable and versatile vehicle for their Pan American Highway adventure.
The Ford Maverick is a great option for those looking for a compact pickup truck that can handle the challenges of the Pan American Highway while providing fuel efficiency, towing and payload capabilities, and reliability.
Chevrolet Colorado
The Chevrolet Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck that is well-suited for the Pan American Highway. With its advanced 4-wheel drive system, high clearance, and off-road capabilities, this vehicle is designed to handle even the most challenging terrain.
The Chevrolet Colorado is a rugged and dependable truck that can handle rough roads and uneven surfaces, making it an ideal vehicle for the diverse terrain found along the Pan American Highway.
The Chevrolet Colorado is also available in various configurations, such as short or long bed and gas or diesel options, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
The short bed option is ideal for those who are looking for a compact truck that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the long bed option offers more space for cargo and is ideal for those who want to carry more gear or supplies.
The gas or diesel options are also available, depending on your preference, the gas option is more fuel-efficient, while diesel options offer more torque and better fuel economy on long distances.
Iveco truck conversion
One option for the Pan American Highway is an Iveco Truck Conversion, which refers to modifying an Iveco truck to better suit the specific needs of the journey.
This can include adding a camper body for comfortable living quarters, adding a larger fuel tank for extended travel, or upgrading the suspension for better off-road capabilities.
Iveco truck conversions can also include adding a built-in generator, solar panels, and other off-grid systems, to make the truck self-sufficient and suitable for remote areas.
They can also include adding a water tank and a sewage system to make the truck more comfortable and convenient.
Iveco truck conversions are often custom-made to suit the needs of the individual traveler, making them a unique and personalized option for the Pan American Highway. It is also great for van life.
They offer a variety of features, such as off-road capabilities, increased storage and payload capacity, and comfortable living quarters, which make them ideal for travelers who want to take the road less traveled.
However, it’s important to consider that the cost of a truck conversion can be high and that it requires a higher maintenance cost.
Pros
Here are some of the pros of trucks for driving on the Pan American Highway
Off-road capabilities
Trucks are designed with off-road driving in mind, making them well-suited for the diverse terrain found along the route.
Features such as tough suspension systems, high ground clearance, and advanced four-wheel-drive systems help to provide better traction and stability on rough roads. This makes them handy for remote or rugged terrains.
Cargo space
Trucks have plenty of space in the bed, making it easy to carry bulky objects, and it also has an incredible towing capacity, which is ideal for travelers who want to bring along a truck camper or a small boat or who want to carry a lot of gear or supplies.
Durability
Trucks are generally built to be more rugged and durable than other types of vehicles, making them well-suited for long-distance travel.
They have a higher ground clearance, which helps to prevent damage from rough roads, and are often equipped with larger tires that can handle more wear and tear.
Towing Capability
Trucks come with towing capability, which allows you to tow a small trailer or a small boat, it can be helpful if you’re planning to take a long road trip and want to take your own camping gear or if you want to stop by a lake or beach.
Power
Trucks are designed to have powerful engines that provide high performance, they are suitable for long-distance travel, and they can handle heavy loads and off-road conditions.
Cons
Here are some of the cons of using trucks on the Pan American Highway
Fuel efficiency
One major drawback to consider when choosing a truck for the Pan American Highway is their tendency to guzzle gas. Trucks are not known for their fuel efficiency, which can put a dent in your budget if you’re planning a long-distance trip.
Cost
Trucks can be a pricey investment, both in terms of purchasing and insuring them. This can be a challenge for travelers who are looking for a budget-friendly option for their Pan American Highway journey.
Size and maneuverability
Trucks are generally larger than other types of vehicles, which can make them difficult to navigate through tight spaces such as narrow roads, parking lots, or small streets. This can be a challenge when traveling through crowded cities or winding mountain roads.
Weight and maintenance
Trucks are typically heavier than other types of vehicles, which can make them more difficult to handle on rough roads or when making tight turns.
They also require more maintenance than smaller vehicles, including more frequent oil changes and tire rotations, which can add to your expenses.
3. Vans
Vans are versatile vehicles that come in a variety of sizes and are designed for a wide range of purposes.
They are larger than a typical car and can be used for both passenger transportation and cargo transportation.
Minivans are the smaller of the two van options and typically have seating for seven or more passengers.
They are perfect for families or small groups of people who are looking for a comfortable, spacious, and reliable mode of transportation.
They are also equipped with features such as air conditioning, audio systems, and entertainment systems to provide passengers with a comfortable journey.
On the other hand, cargo vans are larger and are designed for the transportation of goods. They come in different sizes, from compact vans to large commercial vans.
They are equipped with a large cargo area that can be used for carrying a wide range of items, from small packages to large pieces of equipment.
They are also equipped with safety features such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control to ensure the safe transportation of goods.
Here are some Van models to check out:
Ram ProMaster
The Ram ProMaster is a top choice for those seeking a versatile and rugged vehicle for the Pan American Highway.
With its advanced 4-wheel drive system and high ground clearance, it is perfectly equipped to handle even the most challenging terrain.
Its spacious and comfortable interior provides a smooth ride for passengers, while its fuel-efficient engine ensures cost-effectiveness on long journeys.
Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna is a minivan and a top pick for travelers looking for a dependable and comfortable vehicle for the Pan American Highway. Its spacious interior, complete with comfortable seating and ample legroom, makes it the perfect choice for long-distance travel.
Its reliable engine guarantees a smooth and worry-free journey, while its advanced safety features provide added peace of mind. With the Toyota Sienna, you can embark on your Pan American Highway adventure with confidence.
Pros
Pros of vans for the Pan American Highway
Spacious interior
Vans are known for their spacious interiors, which provide ample room for passengers and their belongings. This makes them an ideal choice for travelers who want to bring along a lot of gear or supplies.
Comfortable ride
Vans typically provide a smooth and comfortable ride, with features such as comfortable seating and advanced suspension systems. This makes them a great option for long-distance travel, such as the Pan American Highway.
Fuel efficiency
Vans are generally more fuel-efficient than larger vehicles like trucks, which can help to save money on gas and reduce overall travel costs. This can be especially beneficial for travelers on a budget.
Customizability
Vans have a lot of aftermarket options available, which can be customized to suit the needs of the traveler, such as adding a camper body for comfortable living quarters, adding a larger fuel tank for extended travel, or upgrading the suspension for better off-road capabilities.
Versatility
Vans can be used for a variety of purposes, such as cargo hauling, passenger transportation, and even as a campervan.
Cons
Cons of Vans for the Pan American Highway
Maintenance
Vans can be more complex than other types of vehicles, which can make maintenance more difficult and costly.
This can be especially challenging for travelers who are planning a long-distance trip, as unexpected repairs can be costly and time-consuming.
Off-road capabilities
Vans are not as capable as off-road vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, which can make them less suitable for navigating rough terrain. This can be a concern for travelers who plan to take the road less traveled or who want to explore remote areas along the Pan American Highway.
Maneuverability
Vans are generally larger than other types of vehicles, which can make them more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces such as narrow roads, parking lots, or small streets. This can be a challenge when traveling through crowded cities or winding mountain roads.
Weight
Vans are generally heavier than other types of vehicles, which can make them more difficult to handle on rough roads or when making tight turns.
They also require more maintenance than smaller vehicles and often require more frequent oil changes and tire rotations.
4. Sedans
Sedans are a popular choice for the Pan American Highway as they offer a comfortable and fuel-efficient ride, making them a great option for long-distance travel.
They are also relatively easy to maneuver, which can be beneficial for navigating through crowded cities and winding mountain roads.
Two popular models of sedans for the Pan American Highway are the Honda Civic and the Toyota Camry.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a compact car that is known for its fuel efficiency and reliability. It has a comfortable and spacious interior, making it a great option for long-distance travel.
Additionally, it has a reputation for being easy to drive, with responsive handling and a smooth ride.
The Honda Civic also comes with a variety of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning, which can provide added peace of mind while on the road.
The Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan that is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It has a comfortable and spacious interior, making it an ideal choice for long-distance travel.
The Toyota Camry also comes with a variety of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning, which can provide added peace of mind while on the road.
Additionally, it has a smooth and comfortable ride, and it is easy to handle, which can be beneficial for navigating through crowded cities and winding mountain roads.
Pros
Here are some of the advantages of driving the Sedan on the Pan American Highway
Fuel efficiency
Sedans are known for their fuel efficiency, which can help to save money on gas and reduce overall travel costs. This can be especially beneficial for travelers on a budget.
Easy to maneuver
Sedans are generally smaller than other types of vehicles, which can make them easier to maneuver in tight spaces such as narrow roads, parking lots, or small streets.
This can be a benefit when traveling through crowded cities or winding mountain roads.
Comfortable
Sedans have a comfortable and spacious interior, making them ideal for long-distance travel. They also have a smooth and comfortable ride, which can make the journey more pleasant.
Advanced safety features
Sedans come with a variety of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning, which can provide added peace of mind while on the road.
Cons
Here are the cons of driving with Sedans
Limited off-road capability
Sedans are not as capable as off-road vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, which can make them less suitable for navigating rough terrain. This can be a concern for travelers who plan to take the road less traveled or who want to explore remote areas along the Pan American Highway.
Less space
Sedans have less space than other types of vehicles, which can make them less suitable for carrying a lot of gear or supplies. This can be a concern for travelers who want to bring along a lot of gear or supplies.
Conditions of the roads on the Pan American Highway route
The conditions of the road on the Pan American Highway can vary greatly depending on the region and the time of year.
North America
The route is known for the scenic views of the Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, and the Andes. It also passes through major cities such as Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Mexico City.
The road conditions are generally good, with well-maintained roads, clear signage, and good surfaces, especially if you are in a major city. However, during the winter months, some sections of the highway can be challenging to drive due to snow and ice.
This is especially true in the northernmost regions, such as Alaska, where the highway can be closed due to heavy snowfall.
It’s important to check the weather and road conditions before starting your trip and to be prepared for any challenges you may encounter on the road.
Read also: 7 Scary Mountain Roads in Alaska
South America
In South America, the road conditions along the Pan American Highway can be a mixed bag, with some countries offering well-maintained roads with smooth surfaces, while others present more challenging driving conditions.
Countries like Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay have generally good road conditions, with well-maintained highways and clear signage, making it a comfortable journey.
However, in other countries, such as Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, the road conditions can be less favorable. The roads in these countries are often in poor condition, with potholes, gravel, and washouts, making it a bumpy ride.
Additionally, heavy traffic and a high risk of landslides and flooding during the rainy season can further complicate matters, making it important to check the local road conditions before setting out and to be prepared for any challenges you may encounter on the road.
Central America
When it comes to the road conditions of Central America on the Pan American Highway, it’s a case of hit or miss.
Some countries, such as Costa Rica and Panama, boast well-maintained roads with smooth surfaces, making for a comfortable driving experience.
On the other hand, traveling through countries like Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala can present more of a challenge, with poorly maintained roads, heavy traffic, and a high risk of landslides and flooding during the rainy season.
It’s crucial to research the local road conditions before embarking on your journey and to be prepared for the unexpected, as the road conditions in Central America can be quite unpredictable.
With careful planning and the right vehicle, you’ll be able to navigate these roads with ease and enjoy the beautiful landscapes Central America has to offer.
Essential items to pack while driving on the Pan American Highway
Don’t forget to pack these essential items for a safe and comfortable journey through the Pan American Highway
Essential documents
- Passport or ID
- Driver’s license
- Vehicle permit and car insurance documents
- Emergency contact information
Navigation and communication
- Detailed maps of the countries you’ll be driving through
- GPS device or phone with offline maps
- Satellite phone or two-way radio
Vehicle maintenance
- Spare tire and tools to change it
- Jack and lug wrench
- Jumper cables
- Basic tools (wrench, pliers, screwdrivers)
- Flares or reflective triangles
- Engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid
- Funnel, oil filter wrench, and oil filter
- Fuel filter and fuel line
- Air filter
Safety and first aid items
- Fire extinguisher
- Reflective vest
- First aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Water and non-perishable food
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
Personal hygiene
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes
- Warm clothing, blanket
Personal comfort and entertainment
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Pillow, sleeping bag, and camping gear
- Entertainment items (books, games, music)
- Camera, extra batteries, and memory cards
- Portable charger and power bank
Additional items
- Cash and credit/debit cards
- Travel insurance
- Water filter or water purification tablets
- Portable camping stove and fuel
- Tarp or tent for shelter
- Trash bags
Local currency
It is important to carry the local currency of the countries you are driving through, as some areas may not accept credit cards or American dollars.
Potential dangers on the Pan American Highway
While driving on this highway, one may encounter various potential dangers whether in North America or Central and South America.
Poor road conditions
Some sections of the Pan American Highway may be in disrepair, with potholes, uneven surfaces, and a lack of proper signage.
These conditions can make for hazardous driving, particularly for vehicles with low clearance or for drivers who are not familiar with the road.
Additionally, some sections of the highway may be under construction, which can cause delays and create dangerous driving conditions with heavy machinery and limited visibility.
Weather hazards
The Pan American Highway passes through a variety of climates and weather conditions, from tropical rainforests to high mountain passes.
You may encounter heavy rain and thunderstorms in some areas, which can make the road slick and increase the risk of hydroplaning.
In other areas, strong winds can make it difficult to control a vehicle, particularly for high-sided vehicles such as trucks and buses.
You may also encounter snow and ice in certain areas, which can make the road slippery and increase the risk of skidding and accidents.
Wildlife
Some sections of the Pan American Highway pass through areas with high concentrations of wildlife, such as national parks and wildlife reserves.
You may encounter animals such as deer, elk, and even bears on the road, which can be dangerous for both the animals and the drivers.
You should be particularly cautious at night when visibility is poor, and animals are more active.
Banditry and crime
Some areas along the Pan American Highway have high rates of crime, particularly in remote and rural areas. The Darien Gap is also dangerous.
You may be at risk of being robbed or kidnapped and should take precautions such as avoiding driving at night, not stopping for strangers and avoiding isolated areas.
Political instability
Some countries along the Pan American Highway have a history of political instability and civil unrest, which can make travel through these areas dangerous.
You should stay informed about the current political situation in the countries you plan to travel through and avoid areas where protests or riots are taking place.
Language barriers
You may have difficulty communicating with locals and understanding road signs due to language barriers. You should learn some basic phrases in the local language and carry a translation guide or a language dictionary.
Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the road signs and regulations of the country, as they may differ from those in your home country.
How much will it cost to drive the Pan American Highway?
The cost of driving the Pan American Highway can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the type of vehicle you are driving, the route you take, the time of year, and your personal travel style.
Some of the main expenses to consider include:
Gasoline
The Pan-American Highway is about 24,000 km long, depending on the route you take.
The cost of driving the Pan American Highway, at an average of $3.38 per gallon, equates to a total of $1,622.4 for the 480 gallons needed to cover the distance of 2 gallons per 100 km.
Gas prices can vary significantly from country to country along the Pan American Highway, and you should expect to pay more at gas stations in some countries than others.
The cost of gasoline will also depend on the type of vehicle you are driving and how far you plan to travel.
Vehicle maintenance
Your vehicle will likely need regular maintenance while driving the Pan American Highway, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake repairs.
An oil change can cost anywhere from $35 to $75, while a tire change can range from $200 to $400 per tire. Brake repairs can run anywhere from $200 to $500.
The cost of these services can vary depending on the country you are in and the type of vehicle you are driving.
Accommodations
The cost of accommodations can vary greatly depending on the country you are in and your personal travel style. You can choose from camping, staying in hostels, or hotels.
A cheap motel or hostel, at an average rate of $15 per night, would cost approximately $75 for a 5-night stay.
For a hotel, budget around $40 per night, totaling $200 for a 5-night stay.
Food
Food can cost between $4 and $12 per meal. The cost of food can also vary significantly from country to country, and you should expect to pay more in some countries than others.
Insurance
You will need to have comprehensive car insurance to cover your vehicle. The typical monthly cost for car insurance in the U.S. ranges from $148 for full coverage to $45 for the minimum coverage option.
Also, you may need to purchase travel insurance to cover any medical expenses or other unexpected costs. The typical cost of travel insurance is between 5-6% of the total trip expenses.
Border crossing fees
Some countries along the Pan American Highway charge a fee to enter or exit the country by vehicle.
Crossing the Mexico-Guatemala, Nicaragua-Costa Rica… borders can come at a cost of approximately $50-$100 per border. Also, be prepared to pay around $3-$10 per passport for the exit stamp and an additional $3-$10 per passport for the entry stamp.
These fees can vary, and it is important to research the cost of these fees before you travel.
Takeaway: Enjoy the ultimate road trip adventure with the perfect ride
When choosing a vehicle for driving across the Pan-American Highway, there are many factors to consider. The size and capacity of the vehicle, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability are all important considerations.
Trucks and SUVs are great options for driving across the Pan-American Highway, whether you are driving through North America or South and Central America.
They are built to withstand rugged terrain and have the most significant off-road capability compared to other vehicles.
They also have higher ground clearance and better suspension, which will help you navigate through rough terrain, muddy roads, and loose gravel.
While smaller vehicles like vans and sedans may also be used for the journey, it is important to stick to paved roads and avoid extreme weather conditions.
The smaller vehicles have less ground clearance and are not built for off-roading. Moreover, in case of extreme weather conditions, the smaller vehicles might not handle the weather as well as the bigger ones.
When choosing a vehicle for the Pan-American Highway, it is important to consider the type of terrain you will be driving on, the weather conditions, and your personal preferences.
Having a vehicle that is well-suited for the journey will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience throughout your entire trip.
Read also: Driving the Pan American Highway in the U.S. (Read this first!)
