Explore our most popular South America tours, from bucket-list highlights like Iguazu Falls, Machu Picchu, and Patagonia to cultural capitals like Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a classic itinerary, a luxury escape, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, all our tours are fully customizable to your pace, style, and dates.
Click or Tap your preferences: Destinations & Activities. Be as specific or general as you like – or click Help Me Decide! We’ll spice it with hidden gems & personal tips to create your perfect trip. Need assistance? Contact an expert at 
(888) 900-5060
The Best...
South America is home to some of the world’s most iconic destinations — from Inca ruins and Andean summits to tropical coastlines and dynamic cosmopolitan capitals. Choosing where to begin can be the hardest part.
For inspiration, explore our guide to the Best Places to Visit in South America and discover the destinations that best match your interests, travel season, and ideal pace.
When is the...
South America spans the equator, so seasons vary by region. In general, the shoulder seasons — October to December and April to May — offer excellent weather and fewer crowds in many destinations, including Patagonia and the Andes. However, the best time to visit South America ultimately depends on where you plan to travel. Our travel specialists tailor each itinerary to match seasonal highlights across the continent.
What to see...
From ancient civilizations and vibrant colonial cities to vast rainforests, glaciers, deserts, and world-class beaches, South America offers extraordinary experiences across every landscape. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, cruise deep into the Amazon, explore Patagonia’s dramatic peaks, or sample award-winning wines in the Andes.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, wildlife, culture, cuisine, or relaxation, South America tours can be tailored to match your travel style and pace.
The Top Attractions and Destinations
Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape, an adventurous expedition, or a relaxed cultural journey, explore South America in a way that matches your interests and travel goals.
With decades of experience crafting journeys across South America, our team combines local expertise, trusted partnerships, and personalized planning to design unforgettable trips. From your first conversation to your return home, we handle the details so you can travel with confidence.
Planning a trip to Argentina? Explore essential travel information including visa requirements, safety tips, weather, money, and more — so you can focus on designing the perfect journey.
Thinking about a South America trip? Here are answers to the most common questions our guests ask. For more details, visit our South America Travel Info page.
Peak travel periods include Christmas and New Year, Easter (Semana Santa), and Carnival in Brazil. These are exciting times to visit, but they require advance planning due to high demand. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider traveling just before or after major holidays.
South America does not experience monsoons in the traditional sense. Many regions have distinct rainy and dry seasons. In tropical areas, the summer months tend to be wetter, while winter months are generally drier. Rainfall often comes in short, heavy bursts rather than all-day storms.
South America offers a wide range of travel styles, from value-focused adventures to luxury experiences. Countries such as Peru, Bolivia, and Colombia can offer excellent value, while destinations like Brazil, Chile, and Argentina may vary depending on region and season. With careful planning, South America tours can be tailored to fit many budgets.
South America is one of the world’s most exciting culinary destinations. From Peruvian ceviche and Argentine steak to Brazilian feijoada and Chilean wines, the continent offers remarkable diversity. You’ll find influences from Indigenous, European, African, and Asian traditions — along with excellent vegetarian and vegan options in major cities.
Food safety standards are generally strong throughout major cities and established tourist destinations. As with travel anywhere, it’s wise to follow basic precautions, such as drinking bottled water in certain regions and choosing freshly prepared foods. Most travelers experience no issues.
Each country has its own currency, with the exception of Ecuador, which uses the U.S. dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and hotels, though it’s helpful to carry some local cash for smaller purchases, markets, or tips. ATMs are readily available in most urban areas.
Yes. In popular destinations and on guided tours, English-speaking guides are readily available. While Spanish (and Portuguese in Brazil) are the primary languages, even a few basic phrases are appreciated and enhance your experience.
Routine travel vaccinations such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus are commonly recommended. Some regions — particularly parts of the Amazon — may require Yellow Fever vaccination or malaria precautions. Always consult your doctor or travel clinic before departure for the most current guidance.
Cruise seasons vary by region. Patagonia and Cape Horn cruises operate primarily from December through March during the Southern Hemisphere summer. Amazon River cruises are often best at the end of the rainy season, when river levels are high and wildlife is active. Galapagos cruises operate year-round with seasonal wildlife highlights.
South America is a welcoming and rewarding destination for travelers. As with any international travel, using common sense and staying in well-planned areas is important. When traveling with experienced local guides and established operators, most visitors experience a safe and memorable journey.
Thinking of traveling to South America? We take your South American travel dream and make it a reality. Every fully custom South America trip is planned by your own expert personal Travel Consultant.
"*" indicates required fields
