Quote:
Originally Posted by Jlit
We need ample space for 3-4 people, film equipment, expedition gear, bikes, batteries, and 2 irish wolfhounds. As many of you know, the roads through South America will require rugged 4x4 capabilities. In addition, with the threat of armed radicals, theives, and corrupt policia, the vehicle needs to be armored.
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I am sorry, but that is a lot of stuff to put in any one passenger vehicle. Two Irish wolfhounds will take up two rows of seats by themselves. Although their size will give you some security, if you take them you will need two Cruisers. When you say fim gear, that can mean a small production video camera or a number of cameras and then the lighting equiptment. Last time I toured a film crew, it was for a promo video for tourism in Alaska and the Yukon. I was driving a twin turbo V8 MCI Bus. (
fond memories of raw power). Anyways they filled the luggage bays with equiptment. As far as needing rugged 4x4 capabilities, how far off the beaten path are you planning to go? Even off the beaten path places in Latin America are usually serviced by 2WD buses.
I would consider taking two vehicles. You would do fine in a Mitsibishi Fuso 4x4 and a Land Cruiser. Only the single cab version of the Fuso is available in NA. Properly outfited, it would haul all your gear and give you some creature comforts. I would match that to a 78 or 76 series Landcruiser. I would prefer the 76 myself - but that is just me. Check out Expo Portal (
Expedition Portal Forums - Powered by vBulletin) and have a close look at the Expedition Campers section and Expeditions and Trip Planning section.
I am with everyone else. Forget the stupid armour. Once discovered by the authorities you'll have Narco written all over your face and you and your crew will be spending some quality time in a Latin American jail until things get figured out. That could be a very long time.
Tint your windows dark and put a hound in each rig for security. Second, don't be to flashy with nice looking gear. The older looking your gear the better. The same goes for your personal appearance. Leave the bling at home, unless your wanting to document a Latin American mugging. Lastly, don't freak out about the security. Lots of retirees have done the Latin American traverse with little if any security problems.