I have been doing local research to add to what I've been slowly learning over the last couple years. Because we plan to spend most of our life here beyond the pavement and civilization-as-we-know-it, we need a vehicle that is tough, reliable, capable off-road, easy to maintain, and easy to fix. In a word: Toyota.
We are looking primarily for a Toyota Land Cruiser or Hilux, with the Nissan Patrol in the running as well. These vehicles are legendary worldwide for the characteristics mentioned above, are common here in Bolivia, and parts are readily available. We are looking mostly at models from the '90s, mostly due to price and availability.
A few weeks ago, I took an opportunity to go to the Venta de Autos here in Cochabamba. Basically, there's about 4 city blocks on both sides of a park area that gets loaded with vehicles of all makes, models, and styles every Wednesday and Saturday. Here is what I found:
Basically, there's an awful lot of shiny vehicles selling for a lot more than we feel we should spend. Take this 1999 Nissan Patrol for example.

This 1987 Toyota FJ75 Land Cruiser would be a fantastic choice. It was in unbelievable mechanical condition and had new paint too! All too often, people here focus on the paint and chrome and don't do maintenance. Obviously not the case with this one:

We saw several Toyota Hiluxes, but this 1993 was the best of the bunch:

Of course the prices don't include winch, tires, or other equipment we'll have to purchase to make a vehicle jungle-ready.
Please pray for wisdom as we continue to look at the options and for the finances we need to make a purchase.
Car shopping is never easy, but you guys definitely have a few added twists. Will be praying for this need.
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