south american vacation tours

• Deutschland

South America

Luxury South America Tours and Vacations

South America is the continent for history and nature lovers, for the culturally curious, for gourmets, or anyone looking for a great tour. Its stunning geography and intriguing history allow for a range of immersive experiences. Who won’t be overawed by the incredible salt flats at  Uyuni  in  Bolivia ? Or by the raucous rainforests of the Amazon in  Brazil , or the chilly glaciers and peaks of  Argentina ’s Patagonia? There are exuberant cities that salsa and tango late into the night, and capitals like  Peru ’s Lima and  Ecuador ’s Quito, that exude classic historic charm. In contrast, you will find rejuvenating calm at seaside retreats or at the centuries-old estancias of  Uruguay .

With so much to see and do, your wish-list can go out of hand. It may be difficult to figure out how to make the best of your vacation time or what is the best time to visit South America , especially when you’re looking at a continent this size. Why not leave the time-consuming planning to the experts at Enchanting Travels? You only need to make a few choices. Whether you want to start high up in the Andes of Chile , lower down in the Amazon Basin, on a Caribbean beach in Colombia , or in the stunning Galapagos Islands . Then sit back and relax, and let our super-attentive team see your trip through, from start to finish.

Popular Trips to South America

Brazil: Treasures of the Amazon

If you want to truly experience the best of what the fabulous Amazon region has to offer, this is the tour for you. Enjoy canoe rides and guided hikes around the Mamiraua Reserve to spot wildlife such as howler monkeys and uakaris. Go on an excursion to look for river dolphins and caimans at Mamiraua…

Brazil: Pantanal & Amazon

This is the perfect tour for nature and wildlife enthusiasts who want to experience the rich biodiversity of the world’s largest rainforest and the world’s largest wetland. Explore the assorted charms of Rio de Janeiro before heading into the Pantanal region. Enjoy guided hikes, and horseback and canoe rides around the wetlands to learn about…

Peru: Lima, Rainforest and Machu Picchu

Delve into the natural beauty, culture and history of Peru over the course of 11 memorable days. Savor the culinary delights of Lima after a day of exploring its colonial architecture. You might find yourself taking plenty of pictures as you admire the scenic landscapes and wildlife around Puerto Maldonado. Round off your Peruvian vacation…

Brazil: Amazonas, Iguazu and Bahia

Discover untamed nature, wildlife and authentic local culture on this 15-day luxury Brazil vacation. Travel straight from one stunning highlight to another – from the buzzing beaches of Rio to the thundering Iguazu Falls, and the Amazon rainforest. Afterward, spend days exploring the vibrant Bahia region with its rich culture, colonial heritage and delicious Afro-Brazilian…

Peru: Traditions of the Sacred Valley

Go off the beaten track at Peru’s Urubamba Valley, or the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and discover a unique cultural landscape and communities. Explore historic villages such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Lamay, and visit Machu Picchu, Cusco and Lake Titilaka in Puno.

Peru: Luxury Highlights & Belmond Hiram Bingham Experience

Soak in the raw beauty of Peru on this 15-day tour that allows you to experience this stunning country aboard two iconic trains – Belmond Hiram Bingham and Belmond Andean Explorer. Start your exploration in the capital city of Lima, before chugging along past the Peruvian Andes to Cusco on the Andean Explorer. Marvel at…

What Our Guests Say

Best Places To Visit

The romance and rhythm of an Argentina tour can take so many joyful forms. A speedboat ride under the thundering Iguazu Falls, results in a thrilling dousing from the cascading waters.

A holiday in Bolivia, high up in the Andes, will surely rank as one of the most enriching travel experiences you have ever had.

Almost every holiday in Brazil begins in the capital Rio de Janeiro. Go the tourist way, stopping at all the famous sites from Copacabana beach to the statue of Christ the Redeemer.

The adulation will start even before your holiday does, before the plane you’re on lands in Chile. Flying into this Andean country, views of snowy volcanic peaks and a jag.ged coastline will up the ante of expectations

Wherever your Colombia tour takes you, music and dance will accompany the journey. Colombia’s varied dance and music heritage blends indigenous, African, Cuban, Caribbean, and European influences, and is an integral part of every region from the high Andes to Caribbean beaches.

Machu Picchu is surely the high-point of a Peru holiday, and with good reason. It is as magnificent as the legends and mysteries that surround it.

Ecuador is small in size, but big on authentic travel experiences. In the Mindo Cloud Forest, Howler monkeys bark in the distance, while a colorful toucan sits on a branch overhead.

Ecuador & Galapagos

A holiday in Uruguay is about indulgences. A glass of fine wine tastes that much better when sampled in the rolling countryside where it was produced.

Best Time To Visit

There are several different types of landscapes in this vast continent, and the climatic zones will vary greatly on your trip. Read an overview by country from our destination experts.

Things To Do

Imposing glaciers, vast deserts, endless salt flats, and the roaring Iguazu Falls – South America has it all. Get your lowdown on where to go and the top things to do in South America.

From the Blog

Your Ultimate Guide to the Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of 2019

They are stunning feats of architectural genius, historic centers of ancient cities, or incredibly rich habitats that are fast disappearing. Curated by our experts, discover 2019’s top 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites from our exotic world.

Iguazu Falls: Which side of the South American stunner should you see?

The Iguazu Falls are an absolute highlight of a South America vacation. Located on the triple frontier of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, you can see the world’s largest waterfalls from the Argentine side as well as the Brazilian side. But, which side is better for you?

Our top 10 Haciendas and Estancias in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay

Discover why a tour in Argentina, Uruguay and Chile is incomplete without a stay in the charming estancias and haciendas that these countries are known for.

The Enchanting Difference

Authentic & unique.

Our award-winning, licensed local guides provide incredible insights and exclusive experiences for you.

Personalized & Private

Our experts completely customize your private tour to match your interests and preferences.

High-Quality Experiences

All our accommodations and services are personally tested by our team.

Fully Supported Travel

You’ll have a personal and dedicated trip coordinator, backed by 24/7 support in case of emergencies while you’re traveling.

Financial Protection & Flexibility

Your booking is flexible and completely secure with us.

Safe & Secure

Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.

Do you have a vacation in mind? Personalize your itinerary with our Trip Builder.

Emergency Banner Component

South America

Our South America travel experiences include the hot-to-visit cities of Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires and Santiago along with the breathtaking backdrop of Patagonia's incomparable Andes mountain range and the wonders of the Galápagos Islands.

• ITINERARIES
• FEATURED TOURS

Welcome to South America

South American life peppered with our unique cultural experiences are what the rugged and refined journeys throughout Chile, Argentina and Brazil are all about. From the Galapagos Islands that changed the course of science... to the ancient civilization of Machu Picchu... to the lively and colorful cities of Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires (the "Paris of South America") and Santiago...and to the other-worldly landscapes found in Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. 

From buenos aires to iguazú falls.

Brazil offers adventures of a lifetime… travel by train to the foot of the world-famous Chris the Redeemer statue, gazing up at the nearly 100-foot status as it watches over Rio de Janeiro … walk (or flightsee) on the Brazilian side of Iguazú Falls, one of the "New Seven Wonders of the World," witnessing firsthand the thunderous nature of the falls… discover the passionate nature of the beloved Carnival and receive a behind-the-scenes look at creation of the festival's dazzling costumes and floats... glimpse at breathtaking beaches... indulge in churrascaria... and more await you on your travels through Brazil.

Types of Travel in South America

Travel by land, in small groups, on a small ship or on journeys tailored to family....

The choice is yours on a Tauck journey through South America. Whether it be on land or the comfort of one of our small ships, Tauck offers a variety of ways to experience this exotic region Small group departures averaging 24 guests are available on Tauck's South American land journeys in destinations including Peru, Brazil, Argentina and Chile.

• Small Ship Cruises

Sail to exotic destinations in South America

Tropical rainforests dense with exotic life and its mysteries... islands teeming with wildlife found nowhere else... and some of the most remote outposts on Earth. Our small ship cruises in South America sail to the Galápagos Islands, and from Argentina to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Patagonia – On the border of Chile and Argentina

Patagonia, stemming over 400,000 square miles at the southern end of South America, is comprised of the southern section of the Andes Mountains as well as lakes, fjords and glaciers. Reaching from the Atlantic Ocean on the west to the Pacific on the east, a Tauck journey through Patagonia brings you to the hidden culture nestled between the two nations of Chile and Argentina.

Argentina – a melting pot of culture, tradition and nature.

Our journeys through Argentina introduce you to the wonders that this country has to offer... stroll the streets of Argentina's "Big Apple," Buenos Aires, with visits to Plaza de Mayo, Metropolitan Cathedral and Casa Rosada and exploration of the city's San Telmo District and La Boca neighborhood... take a walk along the "Superior Circuit" to "Devil's Throat" for stunning views of this section of Iguazú Falls... and experience the time-honored tradition of silversmithing by a family who've crafted priceless pieces for celebrities and local gauchos alike.

Explore the world of the ancient Incas and witness the impact of the Spanish conquistadors on cultures from out of the mists of history... see the vibrant street art throughout Callao... meet llamas and alpacas... discover the "lost" city of Machu Picchu... admire the skill and craftsmanship of ancient artisans whose true medium was gold... attend a folkloric performance based on Inca mythology... take a boat to meet locals living like their ancestors did on floating reed islands on Lake Titicaca... and more await you on adventures through this mystic land.

Journey Collection

Experience South America

Search Again

{{ title }}

{{shortDescription}}

{{longDescription}}

{{priceFrom}}

From Price, Per Person

Price shown is the lowest price per person, double, on most journeys.

No Tours Match Your Room Configuration

Itinerary Related Content

Take a look below for other tours

Please enter a valid search term

No results found for “ ”.

Make sure your words are spelled correctly or use less or different words.

We can't find any itineraries that match your departure date. Try broadening your search by choosing a different year or month.

The keyword's results do not contain the selected date. Please reset the date filter or choose a different date.

Featured River, Small Ship and Land Journeys

Land Tours & Small Ship Cruises

Explore the Possibilities

{{whitepanel.eyebrow}}

{{whitepanel.title}}

{{whitepanel.copy}}

{{whitepanel.subtitle}}

{{whitepanel.numberoftours.landjourneys}}

LAND JOURNEYS

{{whitepanel.numberoftours.rivercruises}}

RIVER CRUISES

{{whitepanel.numberoftours.familytours}}

FAMILY TOURS

{{whitepanel.numberoftours.smallshipcruises}}

SMALL SHIP CRUISES

{{whitepanel.numberoftours.taucksevents}}

TAUCKS EVENTS

Adventure-filled favorites in South America

South America sets the stage for incredible adventures by land journey and small ship cruise in Patagonia, The Galápagos Islands, Buenos Aires, Chile, Rio de Janeiro, and Brazil. From the Andean peaks in Torres del Paine national park... to the world-famous Copacabana Beach... to the Galápagos beaches ripe with wildlife indigenous only to this timeless world.

Essence of south america, galápagos: wildlife wonderland, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

Travel Experiences that are as memorable as the places...

Leave Your Worries At Home

Tauck takes on all of details of travel – all of the planning, all of the logistics...

One Upfront Price

Get what you pay for and then some; no hidden costs, no options sold...

Travel In Good Company

Our Tauck Directors are the best in the industry, making every moment of your journey count...

Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin

Discover The World

Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

• Destinations
• Antarctica & the Arctic
• Australia & New Zealand
• Israel & Jordan
• Latin America
• United States
• Tours & Cruises
• Exclusive Partnership
• Family Journeys
• Guest Favorites
• River Cruises
• Small Groups
• Awards and Accolades
• Our History
• Tauck Impact
• The Tauck Difference
• The Taucker Blog
• About Tauck
• Media Center
• Tutorial Video
• Agent Connect
• Register Your Agency
• General Information
• Group Bookings
• Newsletter Sign Up
• Order an eGift Card
• Request a Brochure
• Tauck Forums
• Travel and Health
• Travel Protection
• Travel Updates

Sign Up to Subscribe to Our Emails

Personalized Travel Experiences

SA Vacations is a U.S.-based boutique tour operator specializing in personalized private and small group tours and cruises to South America , Central America , and Antarctica . Our tailor-made itineraries to some of the most fascinating places in the world provide you with the flexibility to travel when you want and in accordance with your interests and budget. Our most popular tours include Galapagos & Machu Picchu Tours , Patagonia Tours & Cruises , and Easter Island Tours .

Top South American Destinations

Trips That Match Your Interests

Culture & History

Expedition Cruising

Wildlife Viewing

10 best south american vacations for 2024-25, latest blog posts.

Twenty Things To Do In Iceland

The Story Behind Lake Kariba, A Southern African Marvel

Where To Go On Safari: The Best Countries & National Parks In Africa

Mistakes To Avoid When Planning An African Safari

Interesting reads, the main galapagos islands and visitor sites.

Marine iguanas that skitter up to you on seaside rocks, eyes darting. Frigatebirds, their crimson pouches inflating as they roost in bushes. Whitetip reef sharks, gliding past you as you snorkel in calm waters. Sound inspiring? It was to Charles Darwin, whose awe at the boldness of the Galapagos Islands’ wildlife was what set him on the path to his theory of natural selection. His 1831 voyage put this remote archipelago on the map, and ever since, the Galapagos’ fascination…

Top Galapagos Activities by Land or by Sea

So: you’ve deplaned at Baltra Island’s airport, been carted down to the docks on your shuttle, and just stepped off the barge onto Santa Cruz Island, the Galapagos’ main tourist hub. Congratulations—but don’t flop back in your hammock just yet. With 18 main islands, 107 islets, and 116 authorized visitor sites to choose from, planning your next few days’ itinerary in the Galapagos could take some doing—and that’s without considering the 9,000-plus wildlife species…

Travel Guide To Machu Picchu: What You Need To Know

Looking to visit the world’s most celebrated Inca ruin, but don’t know where to start? Relax: this Travel Guide to Machu Picchu has you covered. Here we answer many common queries, regarding both the ruins themselves and the logistics of visiting. Still have questions? Feel free to contact…

Hiking The Inca Trail To Machu Picchu: What You Need To Know

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has long ranked at the top of the bucket list for adventurous travelers. The legendary four-day trek climbs through the Andes to the great citadel built by the Inca Pachacutec in the 15th century, and encompasses historic ruins, mountain views, and an outdoor…

Top South American Cruises

Galapagos cruises.

4-Day Galapagos Cruises / 5-Day Galapagos Cruises / 6-Day Galapagos Cruises / 7-Day Galapagos Cruises / 8-Day Galapagos Cruises

Amazon River Cruises

4-Day Amazon River Cruises / 5-Day Amazon River Cruises / 8-Day Amazon River Cruises

Patagonia Cruises

5-Day Patagonia Cruises / 9-Day Patagonia Cruises

Part of the TTC Family of Brands

GET A QUOTE

DESTINATIONS

WAYS TO TRAVEL

SPECIAL OFFERS

1 888 680 1241

Latin America

VISIT ARGENTINA

DISCOVER BRAZIL

TRAVEL CHILE

EXPLORE PERU

EXPLORE URUGUAY

'Business Class' Tours

ALWAYS INCLUDED

EXPLORE WITH INSIGHT

UK and Ireland

USA and Canada

North Africa

TOUR STYLES

Discovery Journeys

Regional Journeys

Country Roads

Domestic Escapes

Special Interest Tours

Get A Quote

Request A Brochure

Travel Insurance

The Insightful Blog

Privacy Policy

Booking Conditions

Tour Deposit Level

Travel Updates

My Personal Information

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

© Insight Vacations 2024. All Rights Reserved.

Cookie Policy

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

South America Revealed

109 reviews

Journey Through South America

Extend Your Tour

Internal flights included

Available Dates

Your itinerary

Dates & prices

16 Day South America Tour of Argentina, Brazil and Peru

16 days, 3 countries and 8 cities

Accommodation

15 Breakfasts, 2 Welcome Receptions, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners, 2 Regional Dinners, 1 Farewell Dinner

View day-by-day trip itinerary

Beautiful people and equally stunning scenery, color and culture - expect nothing else on Rio's gorgeous beaches, your launch pad to a South American tour through vibrant capitals, national parks, and the Inca heart of Peru. You’ll even learn how to mix the perfect caipirinha and pisco sour.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

Trip code: 

Low deposit from $200

Deposit protection

Free booking changes

Trip map & itinerary

Day by day itinerary

16 days itinerary trip from Rio de Janeiro to Lima visiting 3 countries and 8 cities Extend Your Tour

Download itinerary

Print itinerary

Expand all days

Choose to extend your tour with Brazilian Amazon, Galapagos East Cruise or Galapagos North Cruise

Change view

Selected Version

16 Day South America Tour of Argentina, Brazil and Peru.

Galápagos Legend East Cruise

This tour version extends your stay for 6 days on an East Galapagos cruise aboard the Legend.

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Lima and Cusco with a Local Specialist, Explore both the Brazilian & Argentinean side of Iguassu Falls with a local specialist, Enjoy a Tango & Dinner Show

Visit Sugarloaf Mountain, the Christ the Redeemer statue, Iguassu Falls, Pisac, Ollantaytambo ruins, Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman, the Larco Museum, the Guarani community, Manos de la Comunidad Weaving Center and San Antonio de Areco - the heart of the “gaucho” traditions in the “pampas” region

See the Teatro Colon, Copacabana Beach and the Casa Rosada

Scenic Drive through the Sacred Valley

Scenic Train Ride to Machu Picchu aboard the Vistadome train

Sweet Flavors at Local Chicheria

Enjoy the flavors of chicha, a Peruvian corn beer. Hear about how chicha is brewed by the local indigenous women and its history dating back to the time of the Incas as a favorite drink of the Andes. Learn about the two types of chicha, alcoholic sour chicha de jora made from fermented jora corn and the non-alcoholic, sweet chicha morada.

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Tickets for a ride aboard the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu

A Trafalgar bonus all Intra-Air Flights: Rio de Janeiro to Iguassu, Iguassu to Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires to Lima, Lima to Cusco and Cusco to Lima, including porter service at all airports

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELER REVIEWS

South America Revealed trip reviews

Or search for something else.

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

South America Tours & Vacations

• Featured Tours
• Travel Agents

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  4.9  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1543  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

Steeped in ancient traditions and adventurous landscapes, South America offers charismatic cities and breathtaking natural wonders. From the Amazon rainforest to Patagonian glaciers, white-sand beaches to Andean plains, the wonders of wildlife unlike anywhere else in the world abound. Whether interested in cultural treasures or timeless landscapes, South America is exceptionally diverse and endlessly enchanting. Zicasso travel specialists have planned over 40,000 trips to this region of the world and look forward to designing yours.

Top South America Destinations

Life-enriching travel designed just for you.

Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

Concierge-level service leading up to and during your trip

Unique, exclusive experiences and insider access

Zicasso in the News

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,379

​​As one of the largest countries in South America, Peru is an all-encompassing land, and this 8-day tour ensures that the country's unparalleled natural beauty, rich culture, and iconic heritage are yours to enjoy. From the shores of the Pacific to the towering heights of the Andes, a variety of explorations will provide you with a balanced approach to uncovering Peru's many treasures.

9  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,090

Culture shines from the capital of Bogota to the metropolitan of Medellin and the port city of Cartagena, three iconic destinations to visit on this cityscape, Andean region, and coastal 9-day Colombia adventure. You will admire La Candelaria’s historic landmarks, explore the notorious life of Pablo Escobar, and stand atop the Rock of Guatapé, among other thrilling Colombian experiences along the way.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $7,795

Embrace the wonders of the natural world where wildlife teems beneath the jungle canopy during your 10-day Brazil adventure. Experience the elusive world of jaguars and macaw, winding rivers and enticing mangroves as you explore Brazil’s famous Amazon Rainforest. Lounge in luxurious accommodations, bask in the splendor of authentic beauty, and enjoy an active exploration through countless possibilities as you uncover layers of nature’s majesty.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $11,539

Travelers seeking complete cultural immersion and laidback luxury in Argentina will be absorbed by the allure and charms of the country’s capital city, forested UNESCO World Heritage Sites, breathtaking villages in the shadows of the Andes Mountains, and the timeless wines of the Mendoza region on this tailored 12-day ultimate vacation. Let the wonders of the South American landscapes and Argentinian heritage sweep you off your feet.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $9,235

The grandeur of nature, the thrill of exploration, and the serene beauty of the wilderness will immerse you in endless wonder during your 14-day Chile and Patagonia tour. From penguin colonies to hanging glaciers, calving icebergs to towering ice walls, the promises of Patagonia create an exciting allure and unforgettable collection of memories. Trek the trails, indulge in the culture, and embrace the endless spectacle of the Patagonian landscape.

Dynamic pricing from  $13,645

Experience the ultimate adventure during this 14-day Galapagos, Ecuador, and Peru tour. Discover the wild splendors of the famous Galapagos Islands, traverse the captivating diversity of the Amazon jungle, and witness the architectural marvel of Machu Picchu and the preserved Andean culture of Misminay. From penguins to llamas and from sacred wildlife to the Sacred Valley, uncover the breathtaking heritage of natural history and captivating tradition.

Why Travelers Choose Us

Benefits of Using Zicasso

Dynamic pricing from  $10,135

Argentina and Chile boast picturesque Patagonian forests and remarkable cultural destinations peppering this unspoiled paradise, all of which you may admire on this immersive 12-day road trip sharing the heritage of these South American countries and their people with you. Traveling from the bustling city of Salta to the immense Salt Flats of Atacama Desert, you will explore the kaleidoscopic culture of Patagonia.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,494

Embrace unique and diverse experiences during your exclusive 13-day Chile highlights tour. You will have an immersive experience in cultural and natural grandeur in a country full of splendor. From the pristine Atacama Desert to soaring Torres del Paine towers, Santiago’s cosmopolitan charm to the image of Easter Island’s Moai, your customizable tour of Chile will bring you face to face with adventure, discovery, and unforgettable luxury.

21  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $18,832

Lavish adventures across Argentina and Chile are boundless on this exciting 21-day South American journey showcasing the culture and heritage of these exquisite destinations. Along the way, you will explore mesmerizing desert landscapes, wondrous geothermal regions, and flourishing emerald valleys beneath the soaring summits of the Andes Mountains while relishing the first-class touches of luxury travel in each breathtaking region.

Dynamic pricing from  $2,920

Experience the wonders of Chile for nine days as you relish this handcrafted tour weaving from the beating heart of Santiago to the soaring powdery snow peaks fringing Puerto Natales. From the delectable delicacies to the fascinating history, you will explore a wealth of Chilean heritage during this experience tailored to nature enthusiasts looking for an escape from the every day and the mundane.

15  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $6,340

South America reliably presents visitors wit a unique cocktail of raw natural beauty and charming urban centers, and this 15-day tour of Brazil and Peru will present plenty of both as you make your way from the rugged Andean mountains to the shores of the Atlantic ocean. A combination of leisure time and guided excursions will also ensure that you make the most out of each destination you visit.

Dynamic pricing from  $5,395

The world’s most coveted coffees, chocolates, and cocktails blend seamlessly on this 12-day journey through Costa Rica, immersing you in the origins of some of the most prized coffee and cocoa beans. Enjoy a cup of fresh drip brewed in the micro-mills where coffee beans are grown for world champion baristas and coffee cuppers (the sommeliers of the coffee world). Indulge in decadent organic dark chocolate and sip on rum harvested from locally sourced sugar canes. This tour also visits an organic farm where natural ingredients that accentuate the flavors of coffee are meticulously matured, such as vanilla, cinnamon, and black pepper. Embark on a unique adventure through Costa Rica's cloud forests, volcanoes and pristine nature that stimulates all of the senses, while simultaneously indulging in the famous laid-back lifestyle of La Pura Vida. EXPLORING FURTHER Did you know that Costa Rica contains an exceptional wealth of wildlife relative to its size? More than 5% of the world’s biodiversity can be found in Costa Rica, even though its landmass is a mere 0.03% of the planet. With over 100 protected areas, 801 miles of coastline, and 121 volcanic formations, the country contains 10% of the world’s butterflies, 750,000 species of insects, and 52 species of hummingbirds. To explore Costa Rica’s wildlife up close, consider browsing our Costa Rica vacations to include a face-to-face experience with a smiling sloth.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,245

Touring South America offers the perfect wine trail, combining the soils of the Andes, Pacific coastal plain, and the riverside pampas. Your custom tailored tour embraces the diverse characteristics of vineyards spread across Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay for a tour as unique as the wines you taste. Let the sounds of the tango in Buenos Aires seductively move your body. Wander amongst the cobblestone streets and colonial homes of Colonia. Witness the snowcapped peak of the Andean Mountains and discover decadent chocolates crafted in Mendoza. Follow the wine trail across South America for an unforgettable journey of flavorful cultures.

  Read More

Make a romantic declaration that echoes through the mountains of Patagonia and across the vineyards of the Maipo Valley. Express your passion through tango learned in a private studio in Buenos Aires and linger beneath the seductive artwork decorating hidden niches of Santiago. Your custom tailored tour enchants you with opulent views of volcanic peaks and captivates you with the pleasures of artisan chocolates. Blend ardor and adventure as you cycle around the shimmering lakes of Bariloche. Experience intrigue and flirtation as you and your partner share in unforgettable romance spreading across the cultural and scenic wonders of Chile and Argentina.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,667

The rugged stones of an Incan fortress tower over the mountainside of Machu Picchu as the melodic rhythms of a tango emanate from hidden dance studios in Buenos Aires. Your custom-tailored South America tour immerses you in Incan history and Argentinian culture on a luxurious exploration across mountain slopes and cobblestone streets. Toucans hide in the jungle canopy and staggering waterfalls cause the mist to rise across the sky. From verdant valleys to agricultural terraces, you will discover how heritage shapes culture and how the past has fashioned the present in Peru and Argentina.

The unique spirit of South America emanates from the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires and the colorful culture of Santiago and accentuates the historical mystique of Easter Island. Indulge in the charming café culture and bohemian renaissance. Enjoy the enticing aroma of fresh seafood drifting out of the central market. Feel the exhilaration of adventure, as you wander through a cave to view historical paintings and learn the skills of South American cowboys romping along the plain. Your custom tailored tour embraces charm and beauty, immersing you in the splendors of tango and wonders of wine, relaxing on pristine beaches and relishing breathtaking stonework.

Dynamic pricing from  $11,695

South America is filled with legendary culture and landscape edging the mystical, with no greater stories than those of the Inca in the Andes and the enchanting islands in the Galapagos Archipelago. Gigantic stones continue to adorn the summits of surreal mountaintops. Sea iguanas dive into crystal clear waters, and sea lions bask on powdery-white beaches. Discover the thrilling peaks of Peru; bask in the colonial charm of Quito and enjoy breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife on Ecuadorian volcanic islands. This South American tour turns idyllic daydreams into an unforgettable reality.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,895

Argentina and Chile offer the pleasures of a luxurious odyssey, combining comfort from the streets of cosmopolitan cities with the adventure of the mountaintops towering over the Patagonian steppe. Horses gallop across the landscape on traditional private estancias and glaciers soar above the bordering waterways. Vineyards glow emerald against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains and tango dancers stare passionately into each other’s eyes. Indulge in opulent accommodations and lavish landscapes, searching for grazing guanacos and sleeping flamingos while wandering mystical forest trails. Your customizable adventure embodies excitement and desire for an indelible South American discovery.

Dynamic pricing from  $2,595

From murals decorating the walls of a Santiago barrio (neighborhood) to tango dancers moving passionately along cobblestone streets in Buenos Aires, this tour introduces you to the diverse lifestyles encompassing the pleasures of the plains, the splendors of the mountains, and the flavorful wines of Mendoza. Watch gauchos , South Americans cowboys, traipse across the plain and race one another around the corral. Sample decadent chocolate treats and delight in the vibrant morning rush at the central market. Your customizable tour immerses you in Argentine and Chilean history and culture, creating a captivating experience of a lifetime.

18  Day Custom Tour

Enjoy the trip of a lifetime with this 18-day Ecuador and Peru tour that will immerse you in the pristine wilderness of secluded islands and the exceptional Inca ruins in the Andes. Travel in complete luxury when searching for blue-footed boobies on rugged shores and trek the trail that winds to Machu Picchu. Bask in the radiant flavors of traditional ingredients that shape contemporary dishes and enjoy dramatic views of Lake Titicaca as you discover, explore, and embrace the unique splendors of Ecuador and Peru, from the Galapagos to Puno.

Dynamic pricing from  $6,439

Urbane sophistication and the grandness of nature, the epicurean pleasures of a fine glass of wine and the cultural delights of a tango show, the Great Outdoors and the Marvels of Civilization; all of this and more can be found in stupendous South America. From the Andres to the Atlantic, from the Plaza de Armas to the Plaza de Mayo, this is a journey that will stir your imagination and leave you begging for more.

The sun shines with a remarkable radiance, as Andean peaks loom large over the lush vineyards outside Santiago, Chile and Mendoza, Argentina. Your custom tailored tour immerses you in the flavors of the countryside that have been shaped by the unique properties of the soil. Search for aromas of chocolate, tobacco, and plum drifting from your glass. Touch your fingers to the rugged earth and trace the waxy skin of grapes dangling off the vines. From enriching wine to traditional tastes of regional cuisine, you will discover majesty in the landscape and excitement in the distinctive flavors during your perfect wine tour of Chile and Argentina.

Historic towns, immaculate forests, and sweeping glaciers make your trip worth discovering on this tailored 12-day Argentina adventure. With stops at the bustling capital of Buenos Aires on either side of this exploration to the lush forests of Puerto Iguazú, the glacial landscapes of El Calafate, and the frozen region of Ushuaia, this explorers tour of Argentina and the Patagonian glaciers is a vacation as thrilling as it is breathtaking.

Dynamic pricing from  $12,865

Soak up spirit and passion on an 18-day South America adventure that takes you to historic capital cities, exotic countryside towns, and picturesque Patagonian regions. Admire the marvelous cultural atmosphere in Rio, Buenos Aires, and Santiago, witness the impressive Iguazu Falls and Towers of Paine, and cross the breathtaking glacial landscapes of El Calafate during your complete adventure in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile.

Show More • ( 12 itineraries)

Popular Destinations in South America

South America is a unique and diverse continent comprising 12 countries, each with its own distinct heritage, history, culture, landscapes, and attractions. South America includes Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

Explore our South America tour packages in the following top destinations:

South America is a long continent with the climate of the northern top differing greatly from the weather at the southern tip. The best time to visit South America is in the Southern Hemisphere’s fall, from April to May, or in the Southern Hemisphere’s spring, from September to November.

By the Southern Hemisphere’s winter from June to August, regions like Patagonia may be too cold or full of snow to visit. In the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, from December to February, many of the tropical destinations experience intense rainfall during the wet season.

During the Southern Hemisphere’s fall and spring, you have the best opportunity to explore the variety of countries, cities, historical sites, and scenery with excellent weather.

South America is famous for its incredible natural landscapes and countries with remarkable heritage.

Home to the Andes Mountains, the Amazon Rainforest, the Galapagos Islands , Patagonia , and some of the world’s best beaches, South America makes an unforgettable impression as an ancient work of natural art.

The impressive skylines shaped by mountain peaks and vast plains only add to the beautiful remains of ancient civilizations and contemporary cultures.

With its stunning mix of cultures, remarkable landscapes, and iconic attractions, anywhere you visit in South America is a great choice. Every country has its own unforgettable destinations, but some of the best places to visit in South America include:

• Ecuador: From the colorful flora and fauna of the Amazon rainforest to the conical peak of Cotopaxi volcano, visiting the Equatorial Line, to cruising the Galapagos Islands , Ecuador is packed with exciting experiences unlike anywhere else in the world.
• Peru: Follow the Inca along the trail to Machu Picchu , witness the incredible images carved into the desert at the Nazca Lines, and step onto a floating island at Lake Titicaca to discover Peru’s alluring and fascinating diversity.

Patagonia : Relax or take an adventure in one of the world’s most intense landscapes of endless plains, jagged mountains, and the subantarctic coastline of Patagonia, where you can find unique culture, search for penguins, or embrace luxurious seclusion.

From finding exceptional beaches to witnessing the exclusive wildlife, exploring ancient culture to sampling the mouthwatering cuisine, South America has limitless experiences.

Enjoy your interests as you immerse yourself in your favorite destinations with some of our top things to do in South America:

• Trek the Inca Trail on a multi-day excursion before arriving in the famous Forgotten City of Machu Picchu
• Witness the wonders of nature with a cruise through the Galapagos Islands in search of unique and vibrant wildlife
• Embrace the delicious wines in wine regions across Chile and Argentina to find exceptional flavor, local specialties, and wine culture specific to each country
• Cruise down the Amazon River to reach deep into the dense jungle canopy in search of breathtaking colors and marvelous wildlife
• Enjoy a cooking class to learn the art of local specialties, from making alfajores in Argentina to arepas in Colombia
• Relax on the gold-sand beaches and appreciate the tropical ambiance of countries from Colombia to Peru
• View impressive natural features across the continent when finding the power and prestige of Iguazu Falls or the arid plain of the Atacama Salt Flats

South America has over 15,000 miles of coastline and a collection of stunning beaches famous for their soft sands, refreshing waters, and distinctive ambiance.

Some of the best beaches in South America include:

• Praia do Sancho • Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
• Playa Roja • Paracas National Park, Peru
• Ovahe Beach • Easter Island, Chile
• Bahia Concha • Santa Marta, Colombia
• Ayangue • Santa Elena, Ecuador
• Carilo • Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Playa Blanca • Isla Baru, Colombia

The amount of untouched nature across South America makes interacting with wildlife possible and unforgettable. Few experiences can match the excitement of gliding past a piranha on a boat or witnessing a condor soaring through the sky. From the Galapagos Islands to Patagonia, here are some of the animals to see in South America:

• Blue-Footed Booby
• Galapagos Giant Tortoise
• Scarlet Macaw
• Andean Condor
• Toco Toucan
• Andean Flamingo

South America is safe to visit.

The majority of top destinations in South America are known for their friendly and hospitable culture, in addition to great travel infrastructure. Petty crime does exist in large cities and populated areas, but it rarely affects travelers who take predetermined precautions. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded places and keep your belongings secured.

Respect local cultures and rules by following your guide's general advice wherever you are traveling around South America. By planning your trip with a travel specialist, you can use their expertise to avoid potential and rare travel risks or unintentional cultural oversights.

Our most popular South American itineraries showcase the best of our top destinations. From scenic adventures through the Andes to island excursions in search of wildlife, here are several exciting trips that you can personalize to your preferences:

• Find colorful landscapes and vibrant heritage on our Paradisiacal Peru: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley Tour by visiting Machu Picchu, the Rainbow Mountains, Cusco, and more.
• Discover the authentic treasures of untouched nature on our 14-Day Galapagos Adventure for a multi-country exploration of volcanic islands in Ecuador and the textured mountains of the Andes around the Sacred Valley in Peru.

Blend the cultural colors of the Caribbean with the perfect weather of eternal spring on our Colombia Cultural Immersion: 9-Day Tour of Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena to explore colonial architecture, embrace the coastline, and enjoy cinematic scenery.

Explore more information in our frequently asked questions about planning a trip to South America and inspiration in our South America travel guide .

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.88 stars based on 3294 reviews.

Reviewed By  Kay M.

Reviewed By  Staffan N.

Reviewed By  Donna K.

Reviewed By  Ken K.

Reviewed By  Karen M.

Reviewed By  Jay B.

South America Tours & Holidays

Colourful, candid and everything in-between. South America beats to the rhythm of an infectious, eternal drum.

It’s the sequined heat of Carnival and a cool breeze blowing across the Andes, a fiery Argentine tango and the soft silence of an Ecuadorian cloud forest. You taste it in the crackle of slow-cooked barbecue and the tang of a good pisco sour. About the only thing the continent lacks is monotony. From the rocky slopes of Galapagos to the dawn-lit ruins of Machu Picchu , South America is effervescent with sights, sounds and salsa. Now, pass the empanadas and let's talk adventure.

Our South America trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

South America tour reviews

Filter by rating

Inca Trail Express

Cafe Colombia

Articles of South America

I love solo travel, but anonymous travel is what I really need

Galapagos or Madagascar? Which unique destination should be at the top of your travel list?

Central vs South America: how to plan your next trip

Travelling to Chile? Here’s the best time to go

7 different ways to see Patagonia with Intrepid

From heartache to hiking boots in Peru’s Sacred Valley

Argentina or Chile? Which South American country should you travel to?

After losing my phone in Colombia, I found a better way to travel

Our destinations in South America

Best South America Tour Companies

Search 365 South America tour operators and travel companies, with 4,699 reviews.

Health Safety

Featured South America Trips

Poseidon Expeditions

Exodus Travels

Health Safety +

G Adventures

Intrepid Travel

Insight Vacations

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

Luxury Gold

Responsible Travel

Across South America

Qwerty Travel Argentina

Charlie The Traveler

VBT Bicycling Vacations

Project Expedition

Moser Active

365 match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

View South America trips

Plan your South America trip

South America Reviews & Ratings

Qué paja el perú .

Before I went on this holiday, anyone I talked to about Peru seemed to equate it principally with Machu Picchu and Inka trails. Frankly, as beautiful and wondrous...

Essential Peru

This was a fabulous adventure! Recounting it to friends at home, it seems incredible that we saw and experienced so much - or travelled so many miles in a relativ...

An amazing trip of a life-time!

This was my first experience of Exodus and I was very impressed. All of the communication prior to travelling was excellent and this continued with my arrival in ...

A great and very enjoyable trip with a very good guide / tour leader (Daniel). Such varied culture, food and scenery too. I felt like I learned and saw a lot. My ...

Amazing itinery, varied and comphrehensive

Essential trip covers the highlights in 2 weeks covering Andes and Desert Peru comprehensively (Jungle would be an additional bolt on). The itinery was key fo...

See all South America reviews

Related Trips and Tours

Trip planning.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations
• Central & South America

25 Best Places to Visit in South America, From the Wetlands of Brazil to Easter Island

Experts share their top sights on the continent.

Harrison Pierce is a freelance writer and digital nomad passionate about personal finance and travel. He is traveling full-time with the help of points and miles and enjoys connecting with people on the ground. His work has been published in Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, USA Today Blueprint, Matador Network, and other publications. 

Gabriel_Amaral/Getty Images

As a digital nomad who works and travels full time, I spend a good portion of the year in South America. The first city I visited was Buenos Aires, and it immediately stole my heart — it is arguably one of the best cities on the continent . Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to explore beyond Argentina, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay; Peru will be added to that list in the coming months.

South America has unlimited things to offer, from beautiful beaches and mountainside villages to world-class cuisine and two of the New 7 Wonders of the World . With the help of Elisban Huarancca, an official tourism guide in Peru , Eva Castro, owner of Creo Ecolodge Jardin Project in Antioquia, Colombia, and Alexander Balardjischvili, CEO of C2Rio Tours & Travel , we’ve compiled a list of the 25 best places to visit in South America.

Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 5 Favorite Resorts in South America of 2023

Jardín, Antioquia, Colombia

reisegraf/Getty Images

Jardín is a small town a few hours south of Medellín with colonial architecture, beautiful scenery, and lots to do. Castro of Creo Ecolodge, where I stayed during my trip to Jardín, gave plenty of recommendations for things to do while you’re in town. Take a tour of Cueva del Esplendor, or Cave of Splendor, where you'll find a beautiful waterfall, or head to a nearby coffee farm to learn how Colombian coffee is produced. My favorite is Cafe Historias , which has some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted.  Castro says the best time of year to visit is August and September when there are very few travelers. This is also when the annual Jardin Film Festival takes place. It gets much busier in town from December through April, Castro says.

Cocora Valley, Salento, Colombia

jmichaelmedia/Getty Images

Due west of Bogota is Cocora Valley, one of Colombia's most famous hiking destinations. You can take a day trip from the nearby town of Salento or do a multi-day hike throughout the valley. There are campsites available for use if you choose to spend the night looking at the stars. It’s famous for having the tallest palm trees in the world, which stand at over 195 feet tall and can live up to 200 years. The almost oversaturated green colors of the hills are stunning. Castro highly recommends going at "golden hour" — early in the morning or late in the afternoon — for the best views.

The Lost City, Magdalena, Colombia

PetraKosonen/Getty Images

The Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida in Spanish, is located near Santa Marta in northern Colombia. It’s estimated to have been founded in the 8th or 9th centuries, making it hundreds of years older than Machu Picchu. It was home to anywhere between 1,400 to 3,000 people and about 170 terraces, with apparent spaces for living, working, and religious practice. You’ll have to do a three- to six-day trek with a tour company to get there. On the way, you will see rare native plants and wildlife, which is an adventure in itself. 

The Rock of Guatapé, Guatapé, Colombia

Jens Otte/Getty Images

Guatapé is a town in northern Colombia, directly east of Medellín, and it’s famous for The Rock of Guatapé, which is reached via more 740 steps. At the end of your climb, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the town and different islands in Guatapé Lake. The town is reachable via a bus ride that's less than two hours from Medellín, making it a perfect weekend trip.  “The people here are more welcoming and warm,” says Castro. “When you are walking, you can find many smiling faces... It’s part of our culture.”

San Rafael, Antioqua, Colombia

San Rafael is excellent “if you really want to have the deepest connection with yourself and with nature,” says Castro. She recommends Vanadurga Ashram , a yoga sanctuary, if you want to practice yoga while you're here. “These places are really magical, and you can learn how to change your perspective," Castro adds.

San Rafael is known for its natural beauty, including mountains, waterfalls, and rivers. You can bird watch, hike, or simply soak in nature. “People want to come to have an inner journey,” says Castro. “If that’s your goal — to find out something inside of you — I’d recommend places like San Rafael.”

Cusco, Peru

PocholoCalapre/Getty Images

If you are interested in Inca ruins, Cusco is the perfect place. Churches, museums, and winding streets here will leave you charmed. “Travelers to Peru should know that they will face a diverse and colorful culture, with very warm and very friendly people,” says Huarancca. “Also, understand that they will face different flavors that will help them experience every second of their trip.” Cusco makes a great starting point to reach Machu Picchu. Many travelers spend a few days here exploring and acclimating to the 11,150-foot elevation. (In comparison, Denver has an elevation of 5,280 feet.)

Machu Picchu, Peru

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Arguably one of the most famous places in the world, Machu Picchu is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. The site was initially an Inca citadel, likely built in the 1450s and often called “The Lost City of the Incas.” Machu Picchu is about 50 miles from Cusco; from there, you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus to the site. You cannot visit without a tour guide, so make reservations well in advance.  “The visit to Machu Picchu can be all year round; different climatic factors help to understand the mysterious nature of Machu Picchu,” says Huarancca. “But if you are looking for dates with little rain, it is well suited from April to the end of October.”

Lake Titicaca, Peru

Didier Marti/Getty Images

Lake Titicaca is the largest of South America's freshwater lakes, as well as the world's highest navigable lake. It’s an estimated three million years old, and there are man-made islands constructed of layers of tortora roots and reeds. The number of islands varies at any given time but is usually somewhere between f40 to 60. You will have some of the best views in the Andes from this place, and it is extremely important to Peruvian and Bolivian indigenous communities.

Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca, Peru

maylat/Getty Images

Close to Cusco in the Andes Mountains is Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain because of the colorful stripes on display year-round. The colors result from different mineral layers that were combined with melted ice to create rows of reds, yellows, purples, and greens.

The Amazon Rainforest, Peru

JarnoVerdonk/Getty Images

The Amazon Rainforest spans eight countries and is almost 2.6 million square miles in size. You can visit the Peruvian Amazon from three areas: Manu National Park, Tambopata Province, and the city of Iquitos. Each provides something unique to tourists. The best option depends on what you want to see, how much time you can spend, and your budget.  “The only recommendation I can give to international travelers is to make reservations in advance and have good information about the places you will visit,” says Huarancca. “It is necessary to find out the type of food, drinks, and traditions that place has.”

Huacachina, Peru

Istvan Kadar Photography/Getty Images

Huarancca recommends visiting Huacachina, “a small oasis in the middle of the desert.” Located south of Lima and near the city of Ica, Huacachina is a desert village complete with rolling sand dunes on all sides. You can't swim in Huacachina Lagoon, but you can rent paddle boats to glide across the water. It’s the only natural oasis in all of South America, formed by underground aquifers.

Colca Canyon, Peru

Caroline Brundle Bugge/Getty Images

Colca Canyon is another tourist attraction in Peru that you should not miss, according to Huarancca. It’s one of the world’s deepest canyons (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon) and you can take a day trip from Arequipa to see it or a multi-day trek for the most spectacular views. Either way you're likely to see plenty of native wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia

Chris VR/Travel + Leisure

Bolivia is home to the largest salt flat in the world, originally a prehistoric lake that went dry. Now Uyuni Salt Flat is around 4,200 square miles of striking white salt and rock formations. If you visit between December and April, which is the rainy season, you may see bright pink flamingos. Many people who have visited when water is on the ground describe the experience as walking on a cloud, since the sky is reflected in the water. Book a room at Kachi Lodge , which is set right on the flat, for a very special stay.

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

dislentev/Getty Images

Christ the Redeemer is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a must-see for anyone heading to Brazil. The statue of Jesus stands almost 125 feet tall and looks over Rio de Janeiro . When visiting the marvel, you can expect phenomenal views of the city. Balardjischvili recommends taking the train to see the statue and to book that ticket in advance.

Pantanal Wetland, Brazil

micsmt/Getty Images

Measuring more than 40 million acres, Pantanal Wetland is the biggest wetland on Earth. Jaguars and crocodiles are just two of its residents — with more than 4,700 plant and animal species, it’s one of the most biodiverse destinations on the planet. Balardjischvili recommends “bringing insect repellent, a light raincoat, and a sweatshirt — and always hydrate.”

The Imperial City of Petropolis, Brazil

diegograndi/Getty Images

Petropolis is a mountain resort outside of Rio de Janeiro known for its palaces, architecture, and food. “Visit Petropolis on a guided tour to enjoy the historical aspect," Balardjischvili says. "Always book your tour on legalized companies with good reviews."

Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Holger Leue/Getty Images

Sugarloaf Mountain is a major landmark in Brazil, well known for the panoramic city views guests get at the top. The cable car system here opened in 1912; it was the first in Brazil and the third in the world. “For Sugarloaf, visit it in the morning, as it is fresher; sunset is beautiful but extremely crowded," says Balardjischvili. "If you are traveling during the high season, buy a skip-the-line ticket." The mountain peak sits almost 1,300 feet in the air, so you’ll be grateful you don’t have to climb all the way up. 

When asked about the best time of year to visit Rio de Janeiro, Balardjischvili says May or June, when "you’ll enjoy beautiful sunny days with no rain and 77 degrees.”

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

One of my favorite cities in the world is Buenos Aires , where you can find anything from tango shows and street art to the best steak you’ll ever eat. Each neighborhood has something special. Head to La Boca for beautiful murals along the streets, then tour the famous cemetery in Recoleta before stopping at a speakeasy in Palermo. There’s no shortage of fantastic things to do here, and the city makes a wonderful home base for seeing more of Argentina.

Zuccardi Winery, Uco Valley, Argentina

David Silverman/Getty Images

Zuccardi Valle de Uco is an award-winning winery that I had the opportunity to visit this past January. It certainly lives up to its reputation, with fantastic wines and the Andes as a stunning backdrop to the property's extensive vineyards. Reservations for tastings and tours can be made online.

Iguazú Falls, Puerto Iguazú, Argentina

DIEGO GUTIERREZ/Getty Images

Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls is comprised of about 275 individual waterfalls, making it the largest waterfall system in the world. Most of the waterfalls are on the Argentina side, but the tallest is on the Brazil side. It’s a stunning sight to behold and an absolute must for anyone traveling through South America.

Patagonia, Argentina

noblige/Getty Images

Patagonia is larger than many countries around the world and is split between Argentina and Chile. You can expect each city in the region to feel unique; some of the most popular ones in Argentinian Patagonia are El Calafate, Ushuaia, and El Chaltén. Whether you go to Patagonia Brewery in San Carlos de Bariloche or hike one of the 300 glaciers throughout the region, you will surely have an experience you’ll never forget.

Punta del Este Beaches, Uruguay

ElOjoTorpe/Getty Images

Uruguay is still relatively underrated, but it is a fantastic place for international travelers. It takes just a couple of hours by ferry to get from Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay. From there, it’s about a two-hour drive to Punta del Este, which has some of the best beaches in the country, plus high-end shopping and fantastic steakhouses.

Valparaíso, Chile

Patrick Donovan/Getty Images

Valparaíso is located on the coast of Chile and is less than a two-hour drive from Santiago. It’s famous for its colorful homes and for being the home of renowned poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda. It’s also connected to Viña del Mar, where you'll find some of Chile's top beaches. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with excellent architecture and many things to discover.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Andrew Peacock/Getty Images

The Galápagos Islands are perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can learn about the archipelago's unique biodiversity, go scuba diving, lounge on beaches, or embark on a multi-island cruise. You might also swim with sea lions or hang out with giant turtles.

Easter Island, Chile

daboost/Getty Images

Easter Island is a Chilean territory in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean. It’s known for the nearly 900 stone statues of human figures, called moai , that you'll find here. The statues are believed to have been created over time, from the 11th century to some time in the 17th century. From Santiago, it’s about a 5.5-hour flight to reach the island.

Related Articles

Passing Thru Travel

Solo Adventure: 17 Thrilling Destinations in South America 2024

Posted: March 6, 2024 | Last updated: March 6, 2024

Embarking on a solo journey through South America can be a transformative experience, offering a blend of rich cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities. This guide will help you navigate the continent safely and enjoyably, providing essential tips for solo travelers seeking to explore South America’s diverse offerings.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city set high in the Andes, is a must-visit for any solo traveler in South America. The journey to Machu Picchu, whether by train or through a multi-day trek like the Inca Trail, is as remarkable as the destination.

The site offers an extraordinary insight into Incan history and stunning panoramic views. For solo travelers, it’s a chance to join group tours where you can meet like-minded adventurers.

Insider’s Tip: Book your Inca Trail trek well in advance, as permits are limited and sell out quickly.

When to Travel: The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit, with clearer skies and less rain.

How to Get There: Fly into Cusco from Lima, then take a train or join a trekking group to Machu Picchu.

2. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, known as the “Paris of South America,” is a city that captivates solo travelers with its European charm and Latin flair. Explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the colorful houses of La Boca to the elegant streets of Recoleta. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, with tango shows, bustling cafes, and rich history, makes it an ideal destination for those traveling alone.

Insider’s Tip: Take a group tango lesson to immerse yourself in Argentina’s iconic dance and meet new people.

When to Travel: Visit in the fall (March to May) or spring (September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

How to Get There: Buenos Aires is well-connected by international flights to its two main airports, Ezeiza and Aeroparque.

3. The Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest, spanning across several South American countries, offers solo travelers an unforgettable adventure into the world’s largest tropical rainforest. Join guided tours to explore the diverse ecosystem, spot exotic wildlife, and learn about indigenous cultures. The Amazon is not just a destination; it’s an experience that connects you with nature on a profound level.

Insider’s Tip: Choose eco-friendly tours that support conservation efforts and respect local communities.

When to Travel: The dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife spotting and fewer mosquitoes.

How to Get There: Access the Amazon from gateway cities like Manaus in Brazil, Quito in Ecuador, or Iquitos in Peru.

4. Patagonia, Chile and Argentina

Patagonia, straddling Chile and Argentina, is a dream destination for solo hikers. Its dramatic landscapes of glaciers, mountains, and lakes offer some of the most spectacular trekking opportunities in the world. National parks like Torres del Paine in Chile and Los Glaciares in Argentina are perfect for joining group hikes and connecting with fellow travelers.

Insider’s Tip: Consider staying in refugios or shared lodges to meet other solo hikers.

When to Travel: The Southern Hemisphere’s summer months, from November to March, offer the best conditions for hiking.

How to Get There: Fly into Punta Arenas for Chilean Patagonia or El Calafate for Argentine Patagonia, then travel by bus or car to the national parks.

5. Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena, a coastal city in Colombia, is a delightful destination for solo travelers. Its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and Caribbean beaches perfectly blend culture and relaxation. The city’s friendly locals and lively music scene warmly welcome solo visitors.

Insider’s Tip: Join a walking tour of the historic walled city to learn about Cartagena’s rich history and meet fellow travelers.

When to Travel: The dry season from December to April is the best time to visit, with sunny days and lower humidity.

How to Get There: Cartagena has an international airport with direct flights from major cities in the Americas.

6. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, the world’s largest salt flat, offers a surreal landscape that feels like another planet. For solo travelers, it’s a place of introspection and awe. The vast expanse of white salt, especially during the wet season when it reflects the sky, creates a dreamlike horizon. Guided tours, often in groups, allow you to explore this unique environment safely, including visits to cactus-filled islands and flamingo-populated lakes.

Insider’s Tip: Book a tour that includes a stay in a salt hotel for a unique experience.

When to Travel: The rainy season from December to April offers the mirror effect on the salt flats, while the dry season from May to November provides easier travel conditions.

How to Get There: Fly to Uyuni from La Paz or take an overnight bus for a more budget-friendly option.

7. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, with its iconic beaches, vibrant street life, and pulsating samba rhythms, is a dynamic destination for solo travelers. The city’s natural beauty, from the Sugarloaf Mountain to the Christ the Redeemer statue, is matched by its cultural richness.

Exploring Rio’s diverse neighborhoods, enjoying beach sports at Copacabana or Ipanema, and experiencing the nightlife are perfect solo activities that offer both adventure and the opportunity to meet locals and fellow travelers.

Insider’s Tip: Join a group tour to visit the city’s landmarks and meet other solo travelers.

When to Travel: Visit during the Carnival in February or March for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, or choose the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds.

How to Get There: Rio de Janeiro is well-connected by international flights to Galeão International Airport.

8. Lake Titicaca, Peru and Bolivia

Lake Titicaca, straddling the border of Peru and Bolivia, is the world’s highest navigable lake and a place of deep cultural significance. Solo travelers can explore ancient ruins, visit the unique floating islands of Uros, and experience the traditional way of life of the local communities. The lake’s serene beauty and the people’s warmth make it a fulfilling destination for those traveling alone.

Insider’s Tip: Stay overnight on Isla del Sol or Isla Amantani for a more immersive cultural experience.

When to Travel: The dry season from May to October offers clear skies and more comfortable temperatures.

How to Get There: Access Lake Titicaca from Puno in Peru or Copacabana in Bolivia, both reachable by bus from major cities in each country.

9. The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands, off the coast of Ecuador, are a dream destination for solo travelers interested in wildlife and nature. The islands offer an unparalleled opportunity to observe unique species up close in their natural habitat. Joining a cruise or a guided tour is a great way to explore the islands and meet fellow nature enthusiasts.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a small-group tour or cruise for a more personalized and intimate experience.

When to Travel: Each season offers different wildlife viewing opportunities; however, the cooler dry season from June to November is great for seeing marine life.

How to Get There: Fly to the Galapagos from Quito or Guayaquil in Ecuador, then join a pre-arranged tour or cruise.

10. Valparaiso, Chile

Valparaiso, a port city on Chile’s coast, is a vibrant canvas for solo travelers seeking artistic inspiration. Known for its colorful houses, historic funiculars, and stunning street art, the city’s bohemian atmosphere is perfect for those exploring alone.

Strolling through the cerros (hills) with their labyrinth of streets offers spectacular views and a chance to delve into Chile’s artistic heart. The city’s lively cafes and cultural events provide ample opportunities to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

Insider’s Tip: Take a guided street art tour to fully appreciate the stories behind the city’s famous murals.

When to Travel: The Chilean summer months from December to March offer pleasant weather for exploring the city.

How to Get There: Valparaiso is about a 1.5-hour drive from Santiago, Chile’s capital, and is also accessible by bus.

11. Cusco, Peru: A Cultural Gem for the Solo Explorer

Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is more than just a gateway to Machu Picchu. This high-altitude city in Peru is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and culture, ideal for solo travelers.

Wander through its cobblestone streets, explore the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, or immerse yourself in the vibrant San Pedro Market. Cusco’s blend of Inca and Spanish colonial heritage, along with its lively atmosphere, makes it a captivating destination for those traveling on their own.

Insider’s Tip: Spend a few days in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude before heading to higher elevations.

When to Travel: The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit, with sunny days and cooler nights.

How to Get There: Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, with frequent connections from Lima.

12. Salvador, Brazil

Salvador, the capital of Brazil’s Bahia state, is a city where African and Brazilian cultures meld into a vibrant landscape. For solo travelers, Salvador offers a chance to experience its rich history, colorful colonial architecture, and pulsating music and dance scenes. The Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit for its well-preserved colonial buildings and cultural significance.

Insider’s Tip: Attend a capoeira performance or take a class to experience this Afro-Brazilian martial art form.

When to Travel: Visit during the Bahian Carnival, a less crowded alternative to Rio’s Carnival, usually held in February or March.

How to Get There: Salvador is accessible by air from major Brazilian cities and some international destinations.

13. The Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert in northern Chile offers solo travelers an otherworldly landscape of salt flats, geysers, and lunar terrains. It’s a place for self-reflection and adventure, with opportunities for star gazing, hiking, and exploring unique geological formations. The desert’s vastness and tranquility make it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the ALMA Observatory for a unique insight into astronomical research and spectacular stargazing.

When to Travel: The Atacama Desert can be visited year-round, but spring and fall shoulder seasons offer more comfortable temperatures.

How to Get There: Fly to El Loa Airport in Calama, then take a shuttle or bus to San Pedro de Atacama.

14. Medellin, Colombia

Medellin, once infamous for its turbulent past, has transformed into a hub of culture, innovation, and tourism. Medellin offers solo travelers a unique blend of modern urban landscapes and lush greenery. The city’s innovative public transport system, including cable cars and metro, makes it easy to explore.

Visit the Botero Plaza, take a graffiti tour in the Comuna 13 neighborhood, or relax in the Botanical Gardens. Medellin’s story of transformation is particularly inspiring for solo travelers looking for stories of resilience and renewal.

Insider’s Tip: Join a guided tour of Comuna 13 to understand the neighborhood’s history and witness its vibrant street art.

When to Travel: The best time to visit is during the Flower Festival in August, although the city’s pleasant climate makes it a great destination year-round.

How to Get There: Medellin is served by José María Córdova International Airport, with good connections to major cities in the Americas.

15. Quito, Ecuador

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a city rich in history and culture, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers interested in heritage and architecture. As the second-highest capital city in the world, it offers breathtaking views of the Andean landscape. The city’s well-preserved historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with colonial monuments and architectural treasures. Exploring Quito allows solo travelers to delve into Ecuador’s history and enjoy its vibrant contemporary culture.

Insider’s Tip: Take a trip to the equator line at the Mitad del Mundo monument, just a short distance from the city.

When to Travel: June to September offers clear skies and dry weather, ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

How to Get There: Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport has regular flights from major cities in the Americas and Europe.

16. Santiago, Chile

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a cosmopolitan city set against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains. For solo travelers, Santiago offers cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and culinary delights. Explore the city’s museums, parks, and vibrant neighborhoods like Bellavista.

A short trip to the nearby Andes allows for skiing or hiking, depending on the season. With its blend of traditional Chilean cuisine and international flavors, Santiago’s growing culinary scene is a delight for food enthusiasts.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the top of Cerro San Cristobal for panoramic views of the city and the Andes.

When to Travel: Spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

How to Get There: Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport is well-connected internationally.

17. Lima, Peru

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a paradise for food lovers and a must-visit for solo travelers interested in gastronomy. The city offers a culinary journey through its diverse food scene, from street food to gourmet restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to try ceviche, Lima’s iconic dish. The city’s rich history, represented in its museums and architecture, complements its culinary offerings, making Lima a well-rounded destination.

Insider’s Tip: Take a Peruvian cooking class to learn about the local cuisine and meet fellow food enthusiasts.

When to Travel: The best time to visit is from December to April, when the weather is warmer and sunnier.

How to Get There: Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima is the main gateway to Peru, with numerous international connections.

The Bottom Line

Solo travel in South America offers an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth, adventure, and cultural immersion. As you navigate this diverse continent, embrace its challenges as part of the journey. Remember, your solo travels in South America are as much about the destinations you explore as the personal discoveries you make along the way.

Always keep safety in mind: stay informed about local conditions, trust your instincts, and keep your belongings secure. Embrace the freedom and flexibility of solo travel, but also be open to joining group activities where you can share experiences and make new connections.

More Articles Like This…

Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs

2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities

Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand

The post Solo Adventure: 17 Thrilling Destinations in South America 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Peera_stockfoto.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

More for You

Alvin Bragg Announces New Indictment

Watch Out for These 10 Car Brands With Poor Engine Ratings

Young Sheldon’s Jim Parsons finale cameo changes the meaning of the entire series

‘That’s absurd’: Fetterman fires back at AOC over House clash

Taylor Sheridan Says Farewell To Dabney Coleman, Explains Why He Gave Mentor Unforgettable Turn As Dutton Family Patriarch In ‘Yellowstone'

Applebee's Forced to Close 35 More Locations in 2024

Here is the true value of having a fully paid-off home in America — especially when you're heading into retirement

Gayle King’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Featured the Detail Shoppers Call “Incredibly Flattering”

The 1-Ingredient Upgrade for Better Chicken Salad

UCLA locks doors on conservative students, preventing them from hosting pro-Israel event: YAF

17 movie and TV lines actors refused to say on screen: ‘I’m a self-respecting human being, I can’t do this’

These 12 States Are Banning the Sale of Gas-Powered Cars

Map reveals best places to live in the US if nuclear war breaks out

The Quiet Invasion: 18 States Where Property Taxes Are Slowly Devouring Homeowners

25 Remarkable Fictional Female Heroines

Jamie Dimon delivers startling message about inflation

Selena Gomez Wears Stunning Off-The-Shoulder Gown to Cannes Film Festival Premiere

The $1 ALDI Find I Keep in the Pantry for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Giant lake suddenly returns 130 years after vanishing

22 Vintage Children’s Toys That Are Worth More Money Now

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Route between Auckland NZ and London UK via South America - Air Travel Forum

• Tripadvisor Forums    
• Air Travel Forums

Route between Auckland NZ and London UK via South America

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Air Travel forum

Hello everyone,

I love planning itineraries for lengthy or complex trips for people but I am really stumped with this one (I think it’s because it’s for me rather than someone else). I would appreciate any advice that you could offer.

Next year I turn 40 and I would like to do a round-the-world trip of sorts during my six week summer holiday during August, starting from London (UK). I know that I would like to visit family in Perth (Aus) and Auckland (NZ) so those are my first two destinations and would take up the first two weeks.

With the four remaining weeks, I would like to hit a few cities in South America on the route back to the UK. I have come up with two possible routes:

- Auckland to Santiago (Chile)

- Santiago to Buenos Aires (Argentina)

- Buenos Aires to Montevideo (Uruguay)

- Montevideo to Rio DJ (Brazil)

- Rio DJ to London

- Auckland to Santiago

- Santiago to La Paz (Bolivia)

- La Paz to Lima (Peru)

- Lima to Quito (Ecuador)

- Quito to Bogotá (Colombia)

- Bogotá to London

What I would like to know is:

- Are there better places/cities to travel to in South America on the route back to the UK for a similar amount of money?

A few notes: I know that there are many wonderful cities and countries in South America- this is just a whistle-stop tour of a few places on the way back to the UK. I will definitely be back to explore these places and others in more depth.

Thank you very much.

5 replies to this topic

You might want to look at RTW tickets ( good intro thread in the forum TQ) and you might be surprised at how good value they are. Better to start elsewhere in Europe than the UK on a cost basis however.

The South American stuff would give you issues with OneWorld, not sure about Star Alliance , but they are not insurmountable with ‘self booked surface sectors’.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

AKL to SCL looks complicated with both ( more so since LATAM left One World) but again there are ways around this with a bit of planning.

Would this be in economy?

You'd have to pay out of pocket for flights within South America if you chose a Oneworld RTW, but it can still offer good value. One-way economy fares from Santiago to, say, Lima, Rio or BA are all in the £50 - £100 range, so not deal breakers. The base price for a four-continent Oneworld RTW beginning in the UK is £2100; if you hopped a flight to Norway the same ticket would have a base price of £1509. (Taxes and fees would be in addition to that and would depend on your route, stopover points, and choice of airlines .)

Here's an imaginary route (one of thousands of permutations) that would be eligible. The ticket allows up to 16 flights in the space of 12 months; the imaginary route shows you starting and ending in Norway, with a long stopover back in the UK, followed by a separate trip (to Doha in this example, but could be anywhere in Europe, the Middle East or Mediterranean Africa) before ending back in Norway before the ticket turns back into a pumpkin. See the details in my old sticky thread, which is still largely current.

https://tinyurl.com/OSLPERSCL

• Has anyone used flightgift? 5:10 pm
• Scandinavian Airlines Underseat Bags 4:37 pm
• ESTA Application Delay 4:31 pm
• ASAP tickets is a scam 3:43 pm
• Sun Express - reassurance for newbies 2:35 pm
• US House Passes Legislation to Improve Air Travel 2:08 pm
• About food products 2:05 pm
• Two PNR number with AirAsia & Air Asia Indonesia 1:44 pm
• Air China carry on baggage weight allowance 1:19 pm
• Easyjet 12:25 pm
• Vietnam Airlines 12:00 pm
• Information sources and advice; 13 day driving tour Sicily 11:33 am
• How much time to change planes/carriers at MXP Milan 11:11 am
• Anybody used The Flights Guru? 9:34 am
• ++++ ESTA (USA) and eTA (Canada) requirements for visa-exempt foreign nationals ++++
• ++++ TIPS - PLANNING YOUR FLIGHTS +++++++
• Buy now or later? What's with these screwy ticket prices?
• Around-the-world (RTW) tickets
• All you need to know about OPEN JAW tickets
• Beware of cheap business class tickets (sold by 3rd parties)
• ++++ TIPS - PREPARING TO FLY +++++++++
• TIPS - How to prepare for Long Haul Flights
• TIPS - Being Prepared for Cancellations and Long Delays
• TIPS - How to survive being stuck at an airport
• Flights delays and cancellations resources
• How do I effectively communicate with an airline?
• Airline, Airport, and Travel Abbreviations
• Air Travel Queries: accessibility,wedding dresses,travelling with children.
• Connecting Flights at London Heathrow Airport
• TUI Airways (formerly Thomson) Dreamliner - Movies and Seating Information
• ++++ COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION ++++
• Covid-19 Coronavirus Information for Air Travel

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Experience the Mediterranean Life

.card.collette-hero-overlay { width: 90vw; } .card.collette-hero-overlay img { margin-top: -40px; margin-bottom: -40px; max-width: 680px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; } .collette-hero .card-title { font-size: clamp(4rem, 4.8vw, 7rem); line-height: clamp(6rem, 7vw, 7rem); margin-top: 60px; text-shadow: 0 0 25px rgba(0,0,0,0.7), 0 0 50px rgba(0,0,0,0.7); } .home-search-hero-form a.btn-info { margin-bottom: 15px; filter: drop-shadow( 0 0 20px rgba(6, 36, 39, 0.4)); } .map-marker-center { color: #fff; font-size: 12px; font-weight: 400; text-shadow: 0 0 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.4), 0 0 70px #000000, 0 0 180px #000000; margin-top: 30px; } @media only screen and (max-width: 1260px) { .collette-hero .card-title { margin-top: 140px; } .collette-hero .card-title { font-size: clamp(4rem, 7vw, 7rem); } } @media only screen and (max-width: 900px) { .card.collette-hero-overlay { width: auto; } } @media only screen and (max-width: 767px) { .hero-image .py-5.mt-5.d-none.d-md-block { display: block important; } .collette-hero .card-title { font-size: clamp(3.5rem, 7vw, 7rem) important; line-height: clamp(4.2rem, 10vw, 6rem) important; text-wrap: wrap; max-width: 100vw; line-height: 5rem; margin-top: 160px; padding: 8px; } } dive in plitvice lakes national park, croatia, special offers, the collette difference.

Expertly Designed

We get it. You’re not the homebody type. We aren’t either. Your passion, needs, and desires have shaped our business. Destination experts hand-craft transformative experiences designed specifically with you – our fellow traveler – at heart. We wouldn't trust your experience with anyone else.

Guided Touring Reimagined

We know you want to explore and also dive in. We’re curious travelers, just like you, so rest assured, you’ll experience must-sees and connect with the people and culture that define the destination. You’ll eat in locals’ homes, take cooking classes, travel by trains and tuk tuks, explore cities with food tours, and stay in igloos, castles, and chateaus.

Value Beyond Price

Your time is one of your most precious commodities, so you should spend more of it in the destination, not driving between places. We design tours that spend the fewest hours on the coach. One-night stays are a rarity. This is your trip, and you shouldn’t feel rushed. With choice, flexibility, and free time, take it all in – this is your tour.

Confidently Collette

Travel with trust. Because this is your trip - something you've planned for and dreamed about. You should feel confident in your journey every step of the way.

Industry-Leading Travel Protection

Cancel for any reason (bad hair day applies) up to 24 hours before your tour leaves and get a full money-back refund. Collette issued a record-breaking $185 million cash back to travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experience & Expertise

We've been doing this for a long time. Since 1918, in fact. Collette is the most experienced and longest-running tour operator in North America. You choose...

Traveling Well

Our team is on the pulse of world events and protocols, so you are kept fully aware and feel well-prepared for your trip.

Service Rating

Independent

Why Guided Travel

You're a traveler with places to go. We'll take care of the details. You embrace the journey.

Social Connections

Meet a group of people who share your love of travel. Learn from locals. Forge friendships in the coolest places.

Independence

There's plenty of time built into our itineraries, plus optional tours, Choice on Tour excursions, and more. It's your trip, your way.

Expertly Planned

You know what you want to see and do - let a team of experts handle all the details from the must-sees to centrally-located accommodations and local lessons.

The Best Pacing

Don’t rush – this is your time to see the world. Get more time in the destination, and enjoy an ideal balance of included excursions and free time.

Our Best Moments

When you go, capture all those incredible moments, and use the hashtag #GoCollette so that we can share your joy!

Featured Tours

Collette travelers choose from 160 tours across all 7 continents, as well as 5 travel styles including small group touring and destination spotlights. Check out some trending tours for inspiration on your next adventure.

Explorations

Alaska's Northern Lights

African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside featuring Italy's Charming Hill Towns

Winter in Croatia featuring Plitvice Lakes and the Adriatic Coast

Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio National Park

$4,949 pp* $5,399 pp.

Icelandic Adventure

Mediterranean Coastal Journey Spain, France & Italy

The Best of Ireland featuring the Wild Atlantic Way

Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana

$2,299 pp* $2,499 pp, spotlight on northern italy featuring venice, verona & the dolomites, $3,299 pp* $3,699 pp, historical greenbrier featuring washington d.c. & williamsburg.

Spain's Costa del Sol & Madrid

Find a travel agency.

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

View or Download

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Culture and Lifestyle
• Activities and Entertainment

The 12 Most Underrated Summer Vacation Destinations In The South

The hallmarks of a Southern summer are well-known throughout the region. Running through sprinklers in the yard, spitting watermelon seeds off the front porch, and long days lazing by the pool are just a few of our favorite pastimes. In a season built around spending quality time with loved ones, a summer vacation is the pinnacle experience. Weekend jaunts to your nearest stretch of coast are a given, but if you’re looking to liven up your vacation plans this year, consider one of these underrated summer vacation destinations. Some of these locales are more popular in other seasons, while others are quieter versions of your favorite seasonal spots. Regardless, they’re all fabulous places to travel this summer and deserve a second look when you’re scheduling a week or weekend away. Here are 12 underrated summer vacation destinations in the South. 

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Nature enthusiasts won’t have to roam far for a summertime destination worthy of their bucket lists. Known for its world-class rock climbing and hiking, summer is as good a time as any to get familiar with this impressive geological wonder in the heart of the Bluegrass State. The impressive canyon system formed by the Red River includes high sandstone cliffs, natural bridges, sandstone arches, rock shelters, and scenic waterfalls all waiting to be explored. Lace up your hiking boots, fill up your water bottles, and get ready for an adventure to remember. Want to make your stay a touch more memorable? Book a few nights with Canopy Crew , a rental company with one-of-a-kind tree house stays across the Gorge.

Lake Lanier, Georgia

Getty Images

Nothing says summer like a day on the lake. If you’re lucky enough to have your own lake house (or a very generous friend with one), you may have your summer plans set, but the rest of us are on our own. Luckily, the South has been blessed with dozens of recreational lakes that are perfect for a weekend on the water. Just 30 minutes outside the Atlanta metro, Lake Lanier’s sparkling 38,000 acres of fresh water are just begging for a pontoon boat and a good country playlist. Waterfront houses and cabins to suit any size group are readily available, as is the Lanier Islands Resort , an all-in-one lakeside retreat where stay options include the lodge, luxury villas, cottages, RV sites, and even glamping tents at an attached Margaritaville Resort.  

Richmond, Virginia

Thomas McConnel

A summer in the city can be just as magical as one in the wilderness, if you know how to do it right. In Richmond , you’ll get the best of both worlds. The state’s capital is more enticing than ever thanks to a dedicated group of locals who have worked hard to keep Richmond a beautiful place to live and visit. Summer is the best time to experience the James River, which runs through the center of downtown, on white water rafting tour. Yes, you heard us right. This the only place in the country where you can find Class IV rapids running through a city. After you’ve had your outdoor thrills, take the evening to explore Richmond’s excellent culinary scene, then round out your night with a pint and live music at one of the city’s many breweries in the hip Scott’s Addition neighborhood.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Courtesy Mercier Orchards

If you think of the mountains solely as an autumn destination, think again. Blue Ridge may beloved for its scenic train rides and apple picking in the fall , but summer is an equally wonderful time to explore this part of the Peach State. All the outdoor recreation opportunities—from hiking to camping to fishing to kayaking—make this a popular hangout for families. But don’t let the downtown crowds phase you, there’s plenty of room to roam on the many hiking trails the crisscross the area, as well as on Lake Blue Ridge. For a quintessential summer experience, visit Mercier Orchards, an 80-year-old, family-owned operation where you can pick strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries from May through July, respectively.

Mercer County, West Virginia

Courtesy of Visit Mercer County

Roll down the windows and turn up the radio as you cruise through the rolling farmland and dense forests of Mercer County on the southern border of West Virginia. Temperatures ever climb higher than the low 80s and when the sun goes down, there’s a pleasant nip in the air that’s only a distant memory to most of the South. Summertime activities range from hiking in the area’s three state parks to blueberry picking at nearby farms to cheering on the hometown team in a Iocal baseball game. Consider aligning your trip with the Bramwell Tour of Homes, held on the second Saturday of each June, where guests get to see inside stunning Victorian homes on Millionaire Row. Did we mention this is one of the best places in the country to see the Milky Way from May through September?

Navarre, Florida

Dan Reynolds Photography/Getty Images

For some Southerners (read: most), summer’s simply not summer without a classic beach trip . If you can’t resist the call of the ocean, follow its siren song to Navarre, a tiny community on the western portion of the Florida panhandle. Tucked between the more popular Gulf Coast destinations of Pensacola and Destin, Navarre has been heralded as “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place” thanks to its relatively low tourist traffic and lowkey appeal. Lay out a towel on the white sand beaches, train your eyes on the emerald-green waves, and take a deep breath. The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier , which holds the title as the longest fishing pier in the Gulf of Mexico, is a great place to drop a line or grab dinner al fresco. With direct beach access, Windjammers on the Pier considers sandy feet and a hastily thrown on cover-up exemplary dinner attire.

Crystal Coast, North Carolina

The Outer Banks may be first to come to mind when daydreaming about a North Carolina beach trip, but the Crystal Coast has all the same natural beauty and laidback beach town swagger with far fewer crowds. Also known as the Southern Outer Banks, this 85-mile stretch of shoreline starts at Cape Lookout and Harkers Island in the east and traverses across the barrier island and mainland until reaching its terminus at Cape Carteret in the west. Consisting of 12 distinct communities, travelers will have their pick of places to plan a trip around. The historic fishing village of Beaufort is a great spot for those who love a charming downtown, easy access to the water, and cozy inns. Meanwhile, Emerald Isle is exactly the type of uncommercialized beach town that inspires nostalgia. There are 12 miles of public beaches, plentiful bicycle trails, and oceanfront houses in all sizes waiting to host your crew

St. Michaels, Maryland

Coastal towns are a given in the summertime, and Maryland’s Eastern Shore has some of the best bayside villages anywhere. Just an hour and a half’s drive from Washington D.C. is St. Michaels , a favorite weekend escape for city dwellers hoping for a slower pace. Stroll the walkable and historic downtown that’s lined with Victorian-era buildings that now house boutiques, restaurants, and cozy inns. There’s lots to do in this busy, buzzy community on the Chesapeake Bay, but two not to miss are a sunset sail and a crab dinner. Crab season runs from April through September and sailing season starts at the same time and goes until November, so summer is high season for both.   

St. Louis, Missouri

Make your “Meet Me in St. Louis” dreams come true with a trip to the Gateway of the West. St. Louis may seem a surprising choice for a summertime trip, but when you consider its range of amenities and activities (many of which are free), as well as its excellent if not underestimated dining scene , it’s easy to jump on the train. Outdoor spaces are gorgeous and plentiful in this city. Citygarden combines lush greenspace with internationally acclaimed sculptures while Forest Park serves as the city’s gigantic backyard. (Did you know it’s actually 500 acres larger than Central Park?) Some of its highlights include the Saint Louis Art Museum , Saint Louis Science Center , and the Saint Louis Zoo —all of which are entirely free to guests.

Norfolk, Virginia

Go the opposite direction of traffic by heading away from the coast and popular Virginia Beach and toward Norfolk, located just 25 minutes inland. The historic waterfront town is home to the world’s largest naval base and that influence has created an incredibly diverse and multicultural scene in everything from food to art. After touring the USS Wisconsin, the largest battleship ever built by the US Navy, explore some of the town’s other gems, including the Chrysler Museum of Art , the Hermitage Museum & Gardens , and the up-and-coming NEON District , known for its vibrant murals and street art.

Related Articles

Britons issued Peru travel warning amid 'major outbreak' of infection that 'can be fatal'

Britons going abroad should always consult travel advice

By Anna Barry

Published: 17/05/2024

Updated: 17/05/2024

Holidaymakers have been given new guidance about visiting the South American country

Don't miss, itv bgt fans fume show 'is ruined' as 'average' international act impresses: 'celebrate british', bbc antiques roadshow expert exclaims 'never seen before' over mysterious item, tyson fury to 'contemplate retirement' and ignore rematch clause after brutal loss to oleksandr usyk, kate middleton health: princess of wales issues first major update on project since cancer diagnosis, uk weather forecast: new charts show exact date 600-mile wide 'heat wall' will hit britain, tv sports presenter arrested on suspicion of raping child after 4am police raid, britons can gift unlimited amounts to their family without paying inheritance tax, joshua's verdict on fury defeat revealed as usyk becomes undisputed champion, millions of tesco clubcard members could earn extra £100 voucher from monday, trending on gb news, three months of hot sunshine: britain told to brace for summer heatwave as met office issues updated forecast.

Britons heading to Peru have been given a word of warning from the UK Government as the country experiences an outbreak of a viral infection.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said: "Peru is experiencing a major dengue outbreak following floods."

Britons were advised to consult the ‘Outbreaks’ page of the TravelHealthPro Peru guide for more information.

The World Health Organization (WHO) explained: "Dengue (break-bone fever) is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people. It is more common in tropical and subtropical climates.

"Most people who get dengue will not have symptoms. But for those who do, the most common symptoms are high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash. Most will get better in one to two weeks. Some people develop severe dengue and need care in a hospital. In severe cases, dengue can be fatal."

Britons have been issued a warning about travelling to Peru

GETTY IMAGES

Britons can lower their risk of dengue by avoiding mosquito bites, particularly during the day.

The WHO added: "Dengue is treated with pain medicine as there is no specific treatment currently."

While tourists flock to Peru in their masses to climb the beautiful Machu Picchu or visit the Amazon Rainforest on organised tours, there are some areas that holidaymakers have been urged to avoid.

The UK Government said: "FCDO now advises against all but essential travel to two remote areas of Peru - the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM) and the Putumayo river border area.

"Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)."

Within 20km south of the Peru-Colombia border

Britons were told: "FCDO advises against all but essential travel to areas within 20km south of the Putumayo River and the border between Peru and Colombia (Loreto region)."

The FCDO's warning is due to a "high level of gang-related violence linked to the presence of organised crime related to the production and trafficking of illegal drugs".

Holidaymakers were advised: "If travelling on the Amazon River, be aware that the river is used by armed organised criminal gangs to transport and smuggle illegal drugs.

"There is little assistance available in this area from the Peruvian authorities, and any assistance available from the British Embassy is severely limited.

"You should stay on your boat where it passes through areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel."

Exceptions include the Amazon River, and the area of the triple border with Brazil and Colombia from and including the towns of Caballococha in Peru up to the actual triple border at Santa Rosa de Yavari town.

Putumayo River

Britons should be aware that the FCDO "advises against all but essential travel to areas within 20km south of the Putumayo River which runs along much of Peru’s border with Colombia".

The FCDO explained: "The advice against all but essential travel applies to the Peruvian side of the Putumayo riverbank, though not on the river itself. If you are planning to disembark on the Colombian side of the Putumayo riverbank, you should check FCDO travel advice for Colombia.

"The Putumayo River forms most of Peru’s border with Colombia. It is an area known for intensive cocaine and marijuana production. Drug trafficking and other violent organised crime take place on, and in the area around, the river."

The Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM)

Holidaymakers were warned: "FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers, also known as the VRAEM region.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers, also known as the VRAEM region.

Britons were informed: "Remnants of the Shining Path far-left political party and guerilla group continue to carry out occasional ambushes and attacks in this area, mainly targeting the police, military forces and local authorities.

"Tourists are not usually targeted; however, you could be a victim of violence due to mistaken identity or by getting caught up in a security incident involving others.

"It is difficult for the British Embassy to provide in-person emergency or consular support in these areas. The local authorities may also be very limited in the help they can provide."

For those thinking of heading to other parts of Peru, the FCDO has specific safety advice on staying safe in the Amazon River. It also has safety guidance on the Peru-Ecuador border, Inca trail, Lake Titicaca, and Nazca Lines.

The FCDO added: "Most visits to Peru are incident-free. FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the two areas above for safety and security reasons."

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• Ryanair shares a warning for anyone travelling to and from parts of UK today
• Wizz Air launches new subscription where Britons can travel every month for one price
• Britons can visit stunning European destinations with new packages

Peru is a beautiful country with incredible nature

The FCDO added: "No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: women, disabled people and LGBT+ people.

"Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated."

Holidaying abroad is always very exciting, but it's important to read up on your chosen country before you go there.

Britons were recently issued a warning about travelling to another popular holiday destination.

Those thinking of heading to Mexico were warned about "violent car-jackings and robberies". Britons in the country should be aware of potential "violence or intimidation".

Closer to home, Britons in Mallorca, Spain were warned that tourists could be hit with a ban to cut back on cruise ship visits .

You may like

Listen live

Deals of the Week   All of Europe's finest   Up to 50% OFF

South America Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in South America by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in South America will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

250+ South America small group tours with 6,780 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro: Falls & Footy

My recent tour with G starting in Buenos Aires, through to Uruguay and to Rio was amazing! It was a 18-39 and I really had the best group. Around half the group had already been on a previous tour together from Peru through to BA, but they were all friendly and it didn't seem to matter that they'd formed friendships already. The group was quite large (18 including our guide) which can be difficult if you want some alone time, but there was some free time on the trip if it was needed. BA is just amazing and I'd love to spend more time there. Uruguay - Colonia was beautiful, Montevideo is cool but not too much there and Mercedes (the ranch) was lovely to just chill. Iguassu was stunning (though the overnight journey and then going straight in to Iguassu was a bit tiring, but you just get on with it!), Paraty is beautiful and we had the best time on the boat trip, Ilha Grande has a lot to do if you like watersports and the weather is good, if not then it's just time to relax and Rio is awesome. Luckily they added a favela tour to our Rio part just before the tour started and it was such a great experience. The city tour around Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and Selaron Steps was fab. The hostels and some of the hotels were great, though a couple left a bit to be desired but you're only staying for one or two nights so it's not the end of the world. I'd highly recommend this tour and G Adventures and we had an awesome guide Ari too. This is my third G tour now (done Japan and Burma before) and all experiences have been positive - I can't wait for the next one!

Lima to Rio: Coast to Coast

Amazing tour, I will keep great memories from it

• Christmas & New Year

PERU EXPRESS - 10 days (Lima- Cusco & Puno) with Domestic Flights

10 Day Peru Express - Lima, Ica, Machu Picchu, Cusco & Puno + Titi-Kaka Lake with Domestic Flights with Waman Adventures was an amazing trip. Waman Adventures ran this tour smoothly and professionally. All accommodations, transportation, and most of the food were good. Every second of this trip was carefully thought out. A very informative, entertaining, and pleasant tour. You don't need to worry about anything. We learn a lot about Peru, nature, the ancient Inca civilization, and the current tribes. The tour guides Gido and Will are very professional, caring, punctual, and accurate. The hiking trips might be challenging ( for me, I have asthma) but there is an option to take a horse or bike with the driver. We highly recommend Waman Adventure Tours to everyone.

Brazil and Argentina with Iguazu Falls 4 Star

I normally don't take time to write reviews but I am for this one. Wendy and the whole Team Wanderfull has been by far the best tour company we have dealt with due to various reasons. Every step of the way, they have communicated with us no matter the time of the day and they followed up to make sure our needs were attended. Team Wanderfull checked up on us regularly to make sure things went well, I believe on a daily basis. They have been very accommodating to us and to our needs. We received prompt refund for our money when we needed to change/cancel the day tour that the company provided to a tour that fits our needs and time. We were provided extra tour when we missed our first tour since we somehow did not realize we had to meet our tour guide on our first day in Buenos Aires. Can't really blame us on this one since we were tired and hungry after having almost 24 hrs of no sleep and being hungry :). Team Wanderfull was able to book a last minute show for us and accommodated our request for a specific show. Team Wanderfull made sure we were satisfied with the hotel that we stayed at and moved us to a different hotel since our rooms were unsatisfactory (in Rio), even if Wanderfull had to eat up the cost of transferring us to another hotel. All the arrangements for the move were promptly made. Wanderfull Tour really stands up to its name as they truly are a wonderful company! I highly recommend using this company and will not hesitate using them on our future travels. Les and Nenita T - Hawaii

Bolivia Highlights

Amazing country ! Amazing trip ! Unforgettable memories !!!

South America: Glaciers, Water Falls & World Wonders

The tour was brilliant and had great highlights to offer in every country. We particularly liked the variety of nature and big cities! In addition, everything was so perfectly organized that you really didn't have to worry about anything. This is what a vacation should be like.

Premium Chile, Argentina & Brazil

• Mountain Hikes

Best of Peru & Galapagos (11 destinations)

• Jungle Trekking
• Sightseeing

Premium Peru, Chile & Argentina (14 destinations)

Rio de Janeiro to Santiago de Chile - 17 Days

This was an excellent A to B self guided tour that had a few well placed day tours included such as the Iguazu Falls Brazil and Argentina side, horse riding, tango show and city tours. Excellent value for money and perfect for people who do not want to be stuck in a 'tour group' for long period of time. The Tour radar online staff led by Cristian were absolutely amazing and always there in the other end with support and assistance when required. I definitely recommend this tour to anyone who is thinking about doing it. A trip of a lifetime!!

INCA ADVENTURES - 7 Days (Lima and Cusco) with Domestic Flights

Had great memories of the beautiful and exciting Peru and the Inca Empire, Lima, Paracas, Ballestas Island, Ica, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain!!

Exploring South America - 13 days

It was a trip of a lifetime! Most tours were fantastic. Some of the larger group tours were a bit lengthy but simply due to the amount of people. Every single guide across all countries was excellent. On time, helpful and very knowledgeable. The accommodation was mostly ok. Some new some old some small but all part of 3 star accommodation. We stayed an extra night on either side of trip. One night in Lima and one night in Rio. Lujan from Say Hueque organised the extra nights without a problem. All.in safe and central areas. She also organised all the transfers and internal flights. The only thing I'd recommend is staying an extra night in Buenos Aires as it was better than expected and stay in newer hotels. Some had mouldy rooms and soundproofed rooms doesn't seem to exist in any city we stayed in. Our favourite hotels in this trip were the ones in Cuzco Plaza and Valley Sagrado. Our favourite parts were Machu Pichu and Iguazu Falls. Everything was perfect. Would definitely recommend Lujan and tour again.

• Hiking & Trekking

Affordable Galapagos 8 Days Tour

A good variety of tours, knowledgable guides, and a surreal atmosphere. Everything is made easy for you so you just show up and enjoy the wildlife.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Classic Inca Trail Trek 4D/3N to Machu Picchu (Group service )

We did our trek with alpaca expositions and it was amazing. Our guides, Javier and Henry were encouraging and informative. The chef Alex was able to create gourmet meals including cakes and tortes in a camping setting. This was an unforgettable journey.

Cultural and Nature Experience in the Andes

The tour was well organized by Eurolatino (located in Germany) and its local travel operators. We had asked to add 2 days in Puerto Maldonado in the Peruvian Amazon region and skip the last day in Santiago de Chile, which was smoothly accomodated by Eurolatino. Although we never received any vouchers for hotels, tours or transfers, all local guides and drivers were always on time at the designated locations (except for a taxi that our local guide had ordered for the transfer from the pier to Copacabana after our return from Sun Island) and were fully briefed about our itinerary and the booked services. The local guides were very knowledgeable and accomodating to our needs. When our inbound flight from New York was delayed and we therefore arrived in Lima in the afternoon instead of the morning, our local guide managed to still show us the highlights of Lima in one hour instead of the half-day tour originally scheduled. Our local guide in Puno was aware that the Peruvian Migration Office in Yunguyo at the Bolivian border was still closed on the day of our visit (in late April 2023) after the protests in January and February of 2023 and had arranged for us to receive our exit stamp at the Migration Office in Puno harbor before transferring to the border. The only inconvenience was that we received the information about the pick-up time for our morning tour in San Pedro de Atacama at 3am on that morning. We had only tentatively booked the tours in San Pedro, as Javier Cordero of Eurolatino had suggested, and confirmed them 3 days before our arrival in San Pedro. Apparently that caused the schedule to be finalized in the last minute only. For anybody interested in a variety of landscapes and unique features I recommend booking the tours in San Pedro from the beginning. We liked all components of our trip. The big cities Lima, La Paz, Santiago de Chile, in some respects similar but in many respects different and distinct. The djungle tours in Puerto Maldonado. The Inca and colonial history in Cuzco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. The overland tour to the Altiplano from Cuzco to La Paz. The Salt Flats at Uyuni and the lagoons and mountain deserts all the way to San Pedro de Atacama. With hindsight, the only change I would make is rather than carrying our overnight necessities (you can leave the rest of the baggage in the car) up the hill on Sun Island (a higher ascend than on Machu Picchu) for a (certainly very nice) sunset, I would opt to visit the Floating Islands near Puno and then transfer directly to La Paz. The only reason for not giving a 5 star rating is that after we had paid the full price for the trip Javier Cordero tried to sell us an upgrade for the visit to Puerto Maldonado, indicating that the originally booked accomodation was not available. Only after I reminded him that the German law on packaged travel services requires the seller of the travel package to provide the services as described in the itinerary or substantially similar services, he confirmed that the itinerary would be provided for the price paid. Except for this irritation he provided an excellent service.

Reviews of Small Group tours to South America

Our guide Francisco really made this tour great! Optional activities could have been better; they were generally overpriced (jeep tour in paraty and boat tour in ilha grande especially). Accommodation was generally very good (went in low season) and transport was too. I feel like we ate out in restaurants too often meaning it cost a lot of money and we ate a lot more than we usually would. I know there aren't many alternatives especially for socialising but lunches could have been packed lunches/picnics more often.

10 Day Peru Express - Lima, Ica, Machu Picchu, Cusco & Puno + Titi-Kaka Lake with Domestic Flights with Waman Adventures was an amazing trip. Waman Adventures ran this tour smoothly and professionally. All accommodations, transportation, and most of the food were good. Every second of this trip was carefully thought out. A very informative, entertaining, and pleasant tour. You don't need to worry about anything. We learn a lot about Peru, nature, the ancient Inca civilization, and the current tribes. The tour guides Gido and Will are very professional, caring, punctual, and accurate. The hiking trips might be challenging ( for me, I have asthma) but there is an option to take a horse or bike with the driver. We highly recommend Waman Adventure Tours to everyone.

• 10 Best South America Backpacking Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• 10 Best Adventure Trips for Couples 2024/2025
• 10 Best South America Honeymoon Packages & Tours 2024/2025
• 10 Best South America Travel Specialists (with Reviews)

Discover TourRadar

• See All Tour Operators in South America
• Zimbabwe Safari
• King Ramses Sun Festival Feb 2025 - 13 days
• 10 Best Backpacking Tours Europe
• 10 Best Antarctica Tour Operators
• Best 10 Day Norway Itineraries (with Reviews)
• Danube River Cities: Everything You Need to Know

Mexico tightens travel rules on Peruvians in a show of visa diplomacy to slow migration to US

Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country

BOULEVARD, Calif. -- Julia Paredes believed her move to the United States might be now or never. Mexico was days from requiring visas for Peruvian visitors. If she didn't act quickly, she would have to make a far more perilous, surreptitious journey over land to settle with her sister in Dallas.

Mexico began requiring visas for Peruvians on Monday in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country, after identical moves for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians. It effectively eliminated the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border, as Paredes, 45, did just before it was too late.

“I had to treat it as a emergency,” said Paredes, who worked serving lunch to miners in Arequipa, Peru, and borrowed money to fly to Mexico's Tijuana, across from San Diego. Last month smugglers guided her through a remote opening in the border wall to a dirt lot in California, where she and about 100 migrants from around the world shivered over campfires after a morning drizzle and waited for overwhelmed Border Patrol agents to drive them to a station for processing.

Senior U.S. officials, speaking to reporters ahead of a meeting of top diplomats from about 20 countries in the Western hemisphere this week in Guatemala, applauded Mexico's crackdown on air travel from Peru and called visa requirements an important tool to jointly confront illegal migration.

For critics, shutting down air travel only encourages more dangerous choices. Illegal migration by Venezuelans plummeted after Mexico imposed visa requirements in January 2022, but the lull was short-lived. Last year Venezuelans made up nearly two-thirds of the record-high 520,000 migrants who walked through the Darien Gap, the notorious jungle spanning parts of Panama and Colombia.

More than 25,000 Chinese traversed the Darien last year. They generally fly to Ecuador, a country known for few travel restrictions, and cross the U.S. border illegally in San Diego to seek asylum. With an immigration court backlog topping 3 million cases, it takes years to decide such claims, during which time people can obtain work permits and establish roots.

“People are going to come no matter what,” said Miguel Yaranga, 22, who flew from Lima, Peru's capital, to Tijuana and was released by the Border Patrol Sunday at a San Diego bus stop. He had orders to appear in immigration court in New York in February 2025, which puzzled him because he said he told agents he would settle with his sister on the other side of the country, in Bakersfield, California.

Jeremy MacGillivray, deputy chief of the Mexico mission of the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration, predicts that Peruvian migration will drop “at least at the beginning” and bounce back as people shift to walking through the Darien Gap and to Central America and Mexico.

Mexico said last month that it would require visas for Peruvians for the first time since 2012 in response to a “substantial increase” in illegal migration. Large-scale Peruvian migration to Mexico began in 2022; Peruvians were stopped in the country an average of 2,160 times a month from January to March of this year, up from a monthly average of 544 times for all of 2023.

Peruvians also began showing up at the U.S. border in 2022. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Peruvians an average of about 5,300 times a month last year before falling to a monthly average of 3,400 from January through March, amid a broad immigration crackdown by Mexico.

Peru immediately reciprocated Mexico's visa requirement but changed course after a backlash from the country's tourism industry. Peru noted in its reversal that it is part of a regional economic bloc that includes Mexico, Chile and Colombia.

Adam Isacson, an analyst at the Washington Office on Latin America, said Peru's membership with Mexico in the Pacific Alliance allowed its citizens visa-free travel longer than other countries.

It is unclear if Colombia, also a major source of migration, will be next, but Isacson said Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is in a “lovefest” with his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, while his relations with Peru's government are more strained.

Colombians are consistently near the top nationalities of migrants arriving at Tijuana's airport. Many find hotels before a guide takes them to boulder-strewn mountains east of the city, where they cross through openings in the border wall and then walk toward dirt lots that the Border Patrol has identified as waiting stations.

Bryan Ramírez, 25, of Colombia, reached U.S. soil with his girlfriend last month, only two days after leaving Bogota for Cancun, Mexico, and continuing on another flight to Tijuana. He waited alongside others overnight for Border Patrol agents to pick him up as cold rain and high winds whipped over the crackle of high-voltage power lines.

The group waiting near Boulevard, a small, loosely defined rural town, included several Peruvians who said they came for economic opportunity and to escape violence and political crises.

Peruvians can still avoid the Darien jungle by flying to El Salvador, which introduced visa-free travel for them in December in reciprocation for a similar move by Peru's government. But they would still have to travel over land through Mexico, where many are robbed or kidnapped.

Ecuadoreans, who have needed visas to enter Mexico since September 2021, can also fly to El Salvador, but not all do. Oscar Palacios, 42, said he walked through Darien because he couldn't afford to fly.

Palacios, who left his wife and year-old child in Ecuador with plans to support them financially from the U.S., said it took him two weeks to travel from his home near the violent city of Esmeralda to Mexico's border with Guatemala. It then took him two months to cross Mexico because immigration authorities turned him around three times and bused him back to the southern part of the country. He said he was robbed repeatedly.

Palacios finally reached Tijuana and, after three nights in a hotel, crossed into the U.S. A Border Patrol agent spotted him with migrants from Turkey and Brazil and drove them to the dirt lot to wait for a van or bus to take them to a station for processing. Looking back on the journey, Palacios said he would rather cross Darien Gap 100 times than Mexico even once.

Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed.

Trending Reader Picks

Top-ranked golfer Scottie Scheffler arrested

• May 18, 1:46 PM

5 dead in 'exceptionally' strong storm in Houston

• May 17, 5:45 PM

Former Las Vegas casino executive sentenced to year of probation in bookmaking money laundering case

• May 8, 3:39 AM

Amy Kremer helped organize the pro-Trump Jan. 6 rally. Now she is seeking a Georgia seat on the RNC

• May 17, 1:11 AM

Alleged boater in fatal accident 'devastated'

• May 18, 9:17 AM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Mexico tightens travel rules on Peruvians in a show of visa diplomacy to slow migration to US

Peruvian Julia Paredes, left in white hat, listens to instructions from a Border Patrol agent with others seeking asylum as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Julia Paredes, right, of Peru, gets a hug from volunteer Karen Parker, after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

A Border Patrol agent instructs a group of people seeking asylum, including Peruvians, as they are transported for processing after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum walk through a field of wildflowers as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Peruvian Julia Paredes, center in white hat, listens to instructions from a Border Patrol agent with others seeking asylum as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Men seeking asylum, including Peruvians, line up as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum keep warm near a fire as they wait to be processed, after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum, including a group from Peru, walk behind a Border Patrol agent towards a van to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

• Copy Link copied

BOULEVARD, Calif. (AP) — Julia Paredes believed her move to the United States might be now or never. Mexico was days from requiring visas for Peruvian visitors. If she didn’t act quickly, she would have to make a far more perilous, surreptitious journey over land to settle with her sister in Dallas.

Mexico began requiring visas for Peruvians on Monday in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country, after identical moves for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians. It effectively eliminated the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border, as Paredes, 45, did just before it was too late.

“I had to treat it as a emergency,” said Paredes, who worked serving lunch to miners in Arequipa, Peru, and borrowed money to fly to Mexico’s Tijuana, across from San Diego. Last month smugglers guided her through a remote opening in the border wall to a dirt lot in California, where she and about 100 migrants from around the world shivered over campfires after a morning drizzle and waited for overwhelmed Border Patrol agents to drive them to a station for processing.

Senior U.S. officials, speaking to reporters ahead of a meeting of top diplomats from about 20 countries in the Western hemisphere this week in Guatemala, applauded Mexico’s crackdown on air travel from Peru and called visa requirements an important tool to jointly confront illegal migration.

For critics, shutting down air travel only encourages more dangerous choices. Illegal migration by Venezuelans plummeted after Mexico imposed visa requirements in January 2022, but the lull was short-lived. Last year Venezuelans made up nearly two-thirds of the record-high 520,000 migrants who walked through the Darien Gap, the notorious jungle spanning parts of Panama and Colombia.

More than 25,000 Chinese traversed the Darien last year. They generally fly to Ecuador, a country known for few travel restrictions, and cross the U.S. border illegally in San Diego to seek asylum. With an immigration court backlog topping 3 million cases, it takes years to decide such claims, during which time people can obtain work permits and establish roots.

“People are going to come no matter what,” said Miguel Yaranga, 22, who flew from Lima, Peru’s capital, to Tijuana and was released by the Border Patrol Sunday at a San Diego bus stop. He had orders to appear in immigration court in New York in February 2025, which puzzled him because he said he told agents he would settle with his sister on the other side of the country, in Bakersfield, California.

Jeremy MacGillivray, deputy chief of the Mexico mission of the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration, predicts that Peruvian migration will drop “at least at the beginning” and bounce back as people shift to walking through the Darien Gap and to Central America and Mexico.

Mexico said last month that it would require visas for Peruvians for the first time since 2012 in response to a “substantial increase” in illegal migration. Large-scale Peruvian migration to Mexico began in 2022; Peruvians were stopped in the country an average of 2,160 times a month from January to March of this year, up from a monthly average of 544 times for all of 2023.

Peruvians also began showing up at the U.S. border in 2022. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Peruvians an average of about 5,300 times a month last year before falling to a monthly average of 3,400 from January through March, amid a broad immigration crackdown by Mexico .

Peru immediately reciprocated Mexico’s visa requirement but changed course after a backlash from the country’s tourism industry. Peru noted in its reversal that it is part of a regional economic bloc that includes Mexico, Chile and Colombia.

Adam Isacson, an analyst at the Washington Office on Latin America, said Peru’s membership with Mexico in the Pacific Alliance allowed its citizens visa-free travel longer than other countries.

It is unclear if Colombia, also a major source of migration , will be next, but Isacson said Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is in a “lovefest” with his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, while his relations with Peru’s government are more strained.

Colombians are consistently near the top nationalities of migrants arriving at Tijuana’s airport. Many find hotels before a guide takes them to boulder-strewn mountains east of the city, where they cross through openings in the border wall and then walk toward dirt lots that the Border Patrol has identified as waiting stations.

Bryan Ramírez, 25, of Colombia, reached U.S. soil with his girlfriend last month, only two days after leaving Bogota for Cancun, Mexico, and continuing on another flight to Tijuana. He waited alongside others overnight for Border Patrol agents to pick him up as cold rain and high winds whipped over the crackle of high-voltage power lines.

The group waiting near Boulevard, a small, loosely defined rural town, included several Peruvians who said they came for economic opportunity and to escape violence and political crises.

Peruvians can still avoid the Darien jungle by flying to El Salvador, which introduced visa-free travel for them in December in reciprocation for a similar move by Peru’s government. But they would still have to travel over land through Mexico, where many are robbed or kidnapped.

Ecuadoreans, who have needed visas to enter Mexico since September 2021, can also fly to El Salvador, but not all do. Oscar Palacios, 42, said he walked through Darien because he couldn’t afford to fly.

Palacios, who left his wife and year-old child in Ecuador with plans to support them financially from the U.S., said it took him two weeks to travel from his home near the violent city of Esmeralda to Mexico’s border with Guatemala. It then took him two months to cross Mexico because immigration authorities turned him around three times and bused him back to the southern part of the country. He said he was robbed repeatedly.

Palacios finally reached Tijuana and, after three nights in a hotel, crossed into the U.S. A Border Patrol agent spotted him with migrants from Turkey and Brazil and drove them to the dirt lot to wait for a van or bus to take them to a station for processing. Looking back on the journey, Palacios said he would rather cross Darien Gap 100 times than Mexico even once.

Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed.