A smiling person wearing glasses poses next to a sloth and its baby hanging upside down from a tree branch in an indoor animal exhibit.

Juergen Keller

Co-Founder & CEO

On the Team Since
1999 - Present
Hometown
Sigmaringen, Tübingen, Salamanca, Coimbra, Rio de Janeiro, Tübingen, Seattle, WA.
Languages
German, Portuguese, English, Spanish, Italian, & French.
Education
Master's Degree (Masters Thesis at World Bank, Washington, D.C.)
Co-Founder & CEO
About Juergen Keller

Born in Southwest Germany, Juergen Keller is the visionary Co-Founder of SouthAmerica.travel. His academic journey, which includes studies in Germany, Spain, Portugal, and Brazil, culminated in a Master’s Thesis written at the World Bank in Washington, D.C testament to his high-level analytical and strategic background.

Juergen’s career began in education, leading multi-country tours through Europe before transitioning into international business as an Export Manager. In 1999, he followed his passion for exploration to found SouthAmerica.travel, building a company dedicated to professional excellence and authentic South American immersion.

Executive Experience & Vision

  • Industry Pioneer: Over two decades of experience leading one of the premier South American tour operators.
  • Academic Rigor: Leverages a Master’s level background in international research to ensure travel offerings are culturally and historically significant.
  • Strategic Development: Expert in bridging European standards of service with the vibrant, diverse reality of South American tourism.

Articles by Juergen Keller

A snow-dusted mountain range stands behind a clear blue lake in South America, with yellow grass tufts scattered across a dry, rocky plain under a bright blue sky—an inviting scene in one of the continent’s safest countries for travel.

The Safest Countries in South America

By Juergen Keller
In short the safest countries in South America tend to be found in the south of the continent, plus Ecuador and to a lesser degree Peru.
A snow-capped volcano rises above green hills, reflected clearly in a calm lake under a soft pink sky at sunset—one of the best places in Ecuador to experience breathtaking natural beauty.

The Best Places to Visit in Ecuador

By Juergen Keller
Interested in traveling to Ecuador but not sure where to go? Check out our expert rated list of the best places to visit in Ecuador and plan your trip!
Large, powerful waterfalls cascade over rocky cliffs surrounded by lush greenery. Tour boats with passengers navigate the river below, creating mist and a dramatic scene—truly one of South America's Best Places to Visit, as captured by Juergen Keller.

Juergen Keller’s Best Places to Visit in South America

By Juergen Keller
Whether you're looking for a warm holiday or a snowy adventure, South America has a place for you - with SouthAmerica.travel
Fireworks burst in the night sky above a South American city and waterfront, illuminating the buildings below with bright white and gold light—a stunning New Year's Eve celebration in one of the best cities. Smoke from the fireworks drifts over the water and city.

Best Cities to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in South America

By Juergen Keller
Looking for a place to celebrate New Year's Eve this year? Choose South America! Here's our list of the Best Cities to Celebrate New Year's!
Aerial view of the mysterious site Peru known as the Band of Holes, featuring rows of circular, pit-like holes arranged in a grid pattern along a dry, hilly ridge with mountains in the background under a cloudy sky.

Band of Holes – The Weird & Mysterious Site in Peru

By Juergen Keller
Band of Holes, about 5,500 man-sized holes can be found in Peru's Pisco Valley on the Nazca Plateau. Also known as Monte Sierpe or Cerro Viruela, the local people & Archeologists have no idea about how these holes were formed. READ NOW to explore facts, timeline and more information about the famous Band of Holes.
A couple dances the tango outdoors—a scene Argentina is famous for. The woman in a blue dress and fishnet stockings, the man in dark trousers and silver shoes, their legs entwined dramatically against a blurred South America travel crowd.

What is Argentina Famous For? | SouthAmerica.travel

By Juergen Keller
From beautiful Patagonia to the artsy culture of Buenos Aires, there are plenty of reasons why people have Argentina on their bucket list. But, what is Argentina famous for? In this article, we explore just that. From facts about Argentina food and tango, to what the culture of Argentina is, let's explore Argentina!
A panoramic view of Machu Picchu, one of the most famous Peru attractions, with ancient stone ruins surrounded by lush green mountains, mist, and three llamas standing on a grassy ledge in the foreground.

What is Peru Famous for?

By Juergen Keller
What is Peru Famous for? When we talk about Peru, the first thing that comes to mind is, of course, the magical and world-famous ruins of Machu Picchu. Yes, Machu Picchu is one of the most desired destinations on everybody's bucket list, but there is so much more this vibrant and diverse country has to offer. Read to find out Top 5 things Peru is famous for and more!
A vibrant meadow with purple wildflowers in the foreground, a clear blue lake in the middle, and Mendoza’s tall, rugged mountains—famous for wineries and things to do—in the background under a bright blue sky.

4 Things to Do in Mendoza – Besides Wineries!

By Juergen Keller
Discover the best things to do in Mendoza, besides wineries. From taking an adventure tour to exploring the cities best museums.
Footprints in the sand lead toward the ocean on a sunny beach in Montevideo, with a few modern high-rise buildings in the background under a clear blue sky—perfect for travel and discovering new things to do.

Top 6 Things to Do in Montevideo

By Juergen Keller
In this list of the best things to do in Montevideo, explore the Tristán Narvaja Street Market, Plaza Virgilio, & the local Market!
Colorful woven rugs and blankets with intricate patterns and geometric designs hang at a market stall, showcasing vibrant hues—these are must buy souvenirs and perfect South America gifts for anyone who appreciates authentic craftsmanship.

Must Buy Souvenirs from South America

By Juergen Keller
Discover the best souvenirs from South America! From the beautiful textiles in Peru to wines from Chile, each country in South America has unique souvenirs. Be sure to leave some extra room in your luggage to bring home a few of these souvenirs for your friends and family!