South America Tours
- Galapagos (Ecuador)
- Salt Flats (Bolivia)
- Machu Picchu (Peru)
- Angel Falls (Venezula)
- Amazon Jungle (Peru)
- Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)
- Iguassu Falls (Brazil/Argentina)
- Torres del Paine National Park (Chile)
Variety is the spice of life and a key ingredient to the art of travel. South America offers more variety of culture, wildlife, adventure and natural beauty than any other continent. This liveliness and diversity are evident as soon as you arrive. In South America friendly people welcome you into their lives, happily sharing their culture, their food and even their homes. Once you start to explore this part of the world you quickly realize it holds many of the most intriguing and beautiful destinations on earth. On a South America adventure one arrives with a sense of wonder, and returns home with a newfound respect for the great diversity of this part of the world.
Ecuador Multisport (SEEM)
Speed is the watchword for this high-adrenaline active tour around Ecuador. Across nine action-packed days, you’ll bike Cotopaxi (an Andean stratovolcano), raft down rushing rivers, trek the lush foothills of Baños and much, much more. Best of all, you’ll always travel with an experienced and passionate CEO who knows the quickest and most scenic routes to wherever you’re headed. Remember, you’re here for a great time, not a long time; slather on that sunscreen, strap on your helmet and hit the road/trail/surf!
Highlights: Whitewater rafting in the Amazon, trekking to an active volcano, soaking in mountain hot springs, speeding down Cotopaxi Volcano on a mountain bike.
The Inca Trail (SPIT)
One of our most popular trips in the region for those looking to combine the cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s best known hikes. The 4-day Inca Trail trek will reward you with a stunning combination of the region’s ruins, mountainscapes and cloud forests. Because we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment so that you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the region.
Highlights: Exploring ruins and haggling at local markets in the Sacred Valley, conquering the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The Ecuador Experience (REE)
If you want to sample the region’s highlights without sacrificing some of its lesser known gems, there’s no better way to experience Ecuador's dramatic scenery and colourful people. Visit the Amazon and a shaman for an incredible introduction to indigenous culture and witness lush jungles and exotic wildlife. Staying in simple hotels and homestays and using public transport will keep you grounded in the local customs and culture. We'll travel from the Avenue of the Volcanoes to relaxing Pacific beaches and mountain hot springs in Ecuador. This adventure offers up a great combination of must-see highlights and free time to explore on your own.
Highlights: Feeling like a local at an Amazon homestay, relaxing on Ecuador's beaches, witnessing Andean scenery, riding by train to the Devil's Nose, learning from the locals at an indigenous community, shopping the Otavalo market.
Machu Picchu Adventure (SPMP)
Get acquainted with the wonders of the Incas in this exhilarating introduction to Peru. Embrace cultures past and present in the hills surrounding Cuzco and delight in the amazing views of the Sacred Valley as you travel by rail to Machu Picchu. Taking the train will allow you lots of time to explore ruins, museums and markets. With years of experience, we employ the best local guides, so that you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the region.
Highlights: Exploring ruins and bargaining at local markets in the Sacred Valley, taking in the views from the train to Machu Picchu, learning about the history of the Incas
Bolivia Discovery (BBDR)
Climb to the top of South America for an out-of-this-world Bolivian experience— encounter awe-inspiring geography, cities rich in colonial history and indigenous culture. From La Paz, the highest capital city in the world, travel to the crest of the Andes and the middle of nowhere for three days of incredible off-road exploration of the Uyuni Salt Flats and surrounding desert altiplano. Take the road less travelled and meet locals for an immersive cultural experience that few travellers get to know. If you are looking for an authentic experience away from the tourist track, Bolivia is the perfect place for genuine adventure.
Highlights: Exploring the winding streets and markets of La Paz, experiencing the Uyuni Salt Flats and high mountain wilderness by 4x4, discovering colonial cities and historic cultures in Bolivia.
Inca Discovery (PID)
Perfect for those looking to experience the region’s archaeological and cultural treasures in a short amount of time, this adventure includes a 4-day trek along the Inca Trail. This is one of the world’s best-known hikes and will reward those willing to break a sweat with a stunning combination of mountainscapes, cloud forests and jungles. We run our own treks, which ensures the fair treatment of our porters and quality equipment. Our knowledgeable CEOs will work hard to make certain the first glimpse of Machu Picchu will burn itself into your memory.
Highlights: Sample seafood in Lima, explore ruins and haggle at local markets in the Sacred Valley, conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, learn ancient traditions at the Planeterra-supported Women's Weaving Co-op
Quito to Lima Adventure (SEQM)
Discover the best of Ecuador and Peru as you explore the Andes, Amazon and Pacific coast on this 15-day adventure from Lima to Quito. Explore pre-Inca ruins, walk the colonial streets and get an introduction to the Amazon and its people with time in a jungle community. Tear it up on mountain bikes, raft wild rivers, catch big waves and get your adrenaline pumping on exciting optional excursions. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore these remarkable countries on your own and create the ultimate adventure.
Highlights: Mingling with Amazon locals during a homestay, getting active in Baños, exploring towering volcanoes and colonial cities, chilling out on the beach or surfing in Mancora and Huanchaco.
Inland & Amazon (EIA)
From the heights of the Andes to the heat of the Amazon rainforest, experience an incredible land of contrasts on this 16-day journey through Ecuador. Explore the jungle by canoe and stay with a local Quichua family for an extraordinary cultural experience you'll never forget. Scour the market at Otavalo for special treasures and cure what ails you in a mountain hot spring. With its unique variety of accommodation and insight into rural life in the jungle, this is more than just a tour—it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Highlights: Wandering Quito and colonial cities, soaking in Andean hot springs, feeling like a local at a Quichua homestay, searching for wildlife in the Amazon and adventure in Baños, shopping at the Otavalo market, staying in a gorgeous historic hacienda.
Buenos Aires to La Paz Adventure (SABL)
Breathe in the Incan spirit of La Paz and the tango palaces of Buenos Aires on one 2-week adventure. Connecting the Atlantic to the Andes, you'll journey across the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert and the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni, feel like a sophisticate as you sip wine in Buenos Aires and pull back the curtain on the centre of the continent. Best of all, you'll do it in the company of other fun, young travellers. Don't choose between inspiring wilderness and urban sophistication—do it all.
Highlights: Discovering colonial cities and historic cultures, crossing the Salar de Uyuni and surrounding desert altiplano on a 4x4 excursion, feeling like a sophisticate while sipping fine wines in Mendoza, witnessing the stunning scenery and unique cultures of Northern Argentina, doing it all with other fun, young travellers.
La Paz to Buenos Aires Adventure (SBLB)
Breathe in the Incan spirit of La Paz and the tango palaces of Buenos Aires on this 2-week adventure. Connecting the Andes to the Atlantic, you'll journey across the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert and the Uyuni Salt Flats, feel like a sophisticate as you sip wine in Buenos Aires and pull back the curtain on the centre of the continent. Best of all, you'll do it in the company of other fun, young travellers. Don't choose between inspiring wilderness and urban sophistication—do it all.
Highlights: Discovering colonial cities and historic cultures, crossing the Uyuni Salt Flats and surrounding desert altiplano on a 4x4 excursion, witnessing the stunning scenery and unique cultures of northern Argentina, doing it all with other fun young travellers.
Inca Discovery Plus (PIM)
Like our ‘Inca Discovery’ tour but with a flight back to Lima, this trip offers a fascinating combination of the region’s archaeological and cultural treasures. Retrace the steps of the Inca on a 4-day trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. One of the world’s best known hikes, it will reward those willing to break a sweat with stunning views of ruins and cloud forests. We run our own treks, which ensures fair treatment of our porters and quality equipment. Our expert CEOs will make certain the first glimpse of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate will burn itself into your memory.
Highlights: Sampling seafood in Lima, marvelling at the Sacred Valley, conquering the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Brazil and Argentina on a Shoestring (SAZD)
Experience the treasures of Argentina and Brazil in this jam-packed trip. From tango in Buenos Aires to sun and surf in Rio, explore two of the continent’s most vibrant capitals. Marvel at the majesty of Iguassu Falls and let its power engulf you. Our CEOs will take you to the highlights on a shoestring and then let you loose so you can really do what you want. You’ll stick to public bus, which not only keeps costs down but gives you a chance to really meet the locals.
Highlights: Sipping caipirinhas on the beach, savouring the sophistication and cuisine of Buenos Aires, marvelling at Iguassu Falls, wandering around colonial Paraty, living it up in Rio.
Peru on a Shoestring (SPPS)
Climb the legendary Inca Trail to the cloud forest citadel of Machu Picchu, dine the traditional way at a ceremonial Pachamanca feast or take an optional flight over the Nazca Lines—the adventure is yours to choose! With the services of a CEO and your accommodation and transport taken care of, this trip offers great value as it introduces the region’s main sights, providing plenty of flexibility so you can experience an adventure you'll never forget. Take a trip that's packed with just the essentials—15 days of maximum Peru at minimum cost. This is everything you imagined Peru would be—and more!
Highlights: Conquering the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, feeling like a local at an Andean homestay, spotting soaring condors at Colca Canyon, taking the chance to witness the Nazca Lines
Iguassu & Beyond (SAIB)
For the nature lover who also wants to explore the nightlife of the urban jungle and have plenty of time on the beach, this 9-day adventure offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and cosmopolitan culture. Travel from the tango palaces of Buenos Aires to the samba pulse of Rio de Janeiro and discover spectacular wilderness in between. Encounter thundering Iguassu Falls with views from both Argentina and Brazil. Then continue to the coast and soak in the sun on Ilha Grande's beaches and colonial culture in Paraty. Go beyond a vacation—and step into adventure!
Highlights: Experiencing the sophistication of Buenos Aires, standing in awe of Iguassu Falls, sipping a caipirinha in Rio, exploring the cobblestoned streets of colonial Paraty.
Classic Peru (PPC)
This compact tour of the archaeological highlights and cultural treasures of the Andean highlands has it all. Cruise Lake Titicaca and immerse yourself in rural life with a homestay in a small village. Wander the cobblestone streets of Cuzco before breaking a sweat hiking mountain passes along the Inca Trail on your way to Machu Picchu. Because we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment so that you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the region.
Highlights: Feeling like a local at a Lake Titicaca homestay, climbing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, sampling the seafood in Lima, exploring ancient ruins and villages.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 4
Active Chile & Argentina (SCAA)
Striking the perfect balance between active outdoor adventure and lively nights out on the town, this 11-day sojourn between Santiago and Buenos Aires has a little (okay—a lot) for everyone. Thrillseekers will love hiking the Chilean Andes, biking between Argentina’s wineries and exploring the mountains of Tucumán on foot. For pleasure-seekers, the big cities promise boundless fun in some of the world’s most dynamic urban settings. The itinerary is always fast-paced and filled with optional activities, but don’t sweat it; there’s always time for a breather and a tall glass of malbec.
Highlights: Hiking the Andes perched over Santiago, pedalling from winery to winery through wine country near Mendoza, trekking from Tucumán to experience the views, soaking in the sophistication and energy of Buenos Aires.
Galapagos on a Shoestring (SEGS)
This 9-day adventure is perfect for those who want to experience the incredible wildlife and scenery of the Galapagos Islands but prefer to sleep on shore—so your time on the water is limited to commuting between islands. Go ashore at the lesser-visited island of Isabela and spend your days with playful sea lions, giant manta rays and the Galapagos giant tortoise. With fewer inclusions but plenty of options, you can choose which activities are right for you and experience one of the natural wonders of the world on a budget.
Highlights: Witnessing whitetip sharks at 'Shark Alley', travelling by public speedboats around the Galapagos Islands, feeling like a local during a family homestay, camping in the highlands of Isabela Island with views towards the ocean, visiting Charles Darwin Research Station and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Southern Discovery (SSB)
From the wineries of Santiago to the pristine beauty of Patagonia and the cosmopolitan flair of Buenos Aires, experience the riches of South America. Enjoy a taste of wilderness with hiking opportunities in Chile's Lake District and Argentine Patagonia before cleansing your palate for a wine tasting at a Santiago vineyard. Travel days are well paced and include short flights, allowing you the time to really experience the region’s highlights—in comfort and style. As an introduction to Chile and Argentina, this trip offers the perfect combination of guided excursions and free time to explore at your own pace.
Highlights: Wandering the streets and sampling the wines in Santiago, Soaking in the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District's volcanoes and waterways, Experiencing the sophistication of Buenos Aires.
- Trip Style:
- G-Plus
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
The Best of Brazil (SZBB)
From the heat of Rio’s nightlife to the chilled out atmosphere of Ilha Grande, discover the treasures of Brazil on this comfortable week-long adventure. You’ll wander the colonial streets of Paraty—it’s a UNESCO heritage site and quite possibly the prettiest spot on the planet—and savour seafood and life without cars on the island of Ilha Grande. Stand in awe of awesome Iguassu Falls deep in the interior, then marvel at it from Argentina’s side. Brazil awaits—let’s make the most of it.
Highlights: Exploring the remote and relaxed island of Ilha Grande, Cruising on a schooner to pristine islands and beaches while sipping a caipirinha, Being awed by Iguassu Falls, Feeling the energy of Rio de Janeiro.
- Trip Style:
- G-Plus
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 1
Trekking Roraima (SVTR)
Journey into a land that time forgot and conquer the pre-Cambrian tabletop summit of Mount Roraima. The stunning mountain is sacred to the region's indigenous people and is said to have inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s 'The Lost World'. Take time to explore the unique flora and fauna—some of which is completely unique to the mountain. The trek itself takes six days start to finish but this 2-week adventure also includes canoe trips in Canaima National Park and a thrilling trek to Angel Falls. If you're fit and want to get off the beaten track, this adventure will take you to new heights.
Highlights: Conquering the summit of Roraima Mountain, exploring Canaima National Park, witnessing the power of Angel Falls, discovering a 'lost world' amidst tabletop mountains.
- Trip Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 4
| Trip | Length | Style | Service Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ecuador Multisport (SEEM) | 9 days | Active | Standard |
From
$899
USD
|
| The Inca Trail (SPIT) | 7 days | Active | Standard |
From
$1099
USD
|
| The Ecuador Experience (REE) | 18 days | Classic | Basic |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Machu Picchu Adventure (SPMP) | 8 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Bolivia Discovery (BBDR) | 11 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1349
USD
|
| Inca Discovery (PID) | 8 days | Active | Standard |
From
$1349
USD
|
| Quito to Lima Adventure (SEQM) | 15 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1399
USD
|
| Inland & Amazon (EIA) | 16 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1499
USD
|
| Buenos Aires to La Paz Adventure (SABL) | 15 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1599
USD
|
| La Paz to Buenos Aires Adventure (SBLB) | 15 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1599
USD
|
| Inca Discovery Plus (PIM) | 9 days | Active | Standard |
From
$1699
USD
|
| Brazil and Argentina on a Shoestring (SAZD) | 11 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1699
USD
|
| Peru on a Shoestring (SPPS) | 15 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1749
USD
|
| Iguassu & Beyond (SAIB) | 9 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1849
USD
|
| Classic Peru (PPC) | 12 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1870
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2199
|
| Active Chile & Argentina (SCAA) | 11 days | Active | Standard |
From
$1899
USD
|
| Galapagos on a Shoestring (SEGS) | 9 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1912
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2249
|
| Southern Discovery (SSB) | 8 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1955
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2299
|
| The Best of Brazil (SZBB) | 9 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$2040
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2399
|
| Trekking Roraima (SVTR) | 15 days | Active | Standard |
From
$2125
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2499
|
