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.
Guyana Wildlife Adventure (SGWA)
If you've travelled South America but want to go further afield, discover Guyana—the continent's hidden corner. A nature-lover's paradise and free of typical tourist infrastructure, you'll encounter mountains, savannah and navigate jungle canopy walkways in search of exotic birds, jaguars and other wildlife. A highlight is Karanambu Ranch, a rehabilitation centre for orphaned giant river otters. And for an immersive experience that few travellers get to know, you'll visit indigenous communities and encounter a way of life long forgotten by the modern world.
Highlights: Experiencing the forest from above on a canopy walkway, Learning about traditional Amerindian life from the locals, Trekking jungle trails observing birds and monkeys, Exploring the river at night in search of caimans, Tending to giant river otters at the rehabilitation centre.
Colombia Highlights (SMCH)
Check your preconceived notions of Colombia at the door and discover the region’s riches on this well-packed adventure. From the convenience of Bogotá, fly to the natural and cultural wonders of the northern coast. Walk the cobblestone streets of colonial Cartagena, enjoy a boat and snorkelling tour of the San Bernardo Islands and sleep in hammocks in Tayrona National Park—home to lush vegetation and endless beaches. Our expert CEOs will take the hassle out of planning and help you find the secluded spots only the locals know—leaving you free to enjoy the amazing scenery of this friendly country.
Highlights: Discovering colonial history and Caribbean beaches, wandering the cobblestones of Cartagena, soaking in a mud volcano, wandering laid back fishing villages and Tayrona National Park.
Southern Divide (SMS)
For those looking to experience the history, culture and wilderness of South America, this 3-week adventure through Peru, Bolivia and Chile is packed full of some of the continent’s most iconic and popular highlights. Explore the Sacred Valley and uncover Incan history high in the Andes at legendary Machu Picchu. Explore incredible landscapes at Uyuni Salt Flats and the Atacama Desert, and encounter vibrant culture at Lake Titicaca. Because we have years of experience and established operational offices in the region, we’ll take care of the hassles—so that you can focus on the highlights. Get off the beaten track and embrace the best of this incredible region.
Highlights: Exploring the Sacred Valley, Marvelling at the views from the train to Machu Picchu, witnessing traditional life on Lake Titicaca, encountering colonial cities and historic cultures in Bolivia, crossing the Uyuni Salt Flats and mountain wilderness into Chile by 4x4.
Backroads & Highlands of Peru (SPBH)
Get off the beaten path in the highlands of Peru and discover stunning mountain scenery and remote cities few tourists visit. Getting to Cuzco is half the adventure—travel by public bus keeps costs down and allows you to connect with the locals in the rarefied mountain air of the Andes. Climb the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the 'Lost City of the Incas'. We operate our own treks in Peru and can ensure the fair treatment of our porters—and an exceptional experience for you.
Highlights: Gazing at Andean vistas, experiencing the culture and mingling with the locals on public buses, conquering the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, sampling the seafood in Lima.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 4
The Inca Journey (SPIJ)
This tour will introduce you to the best of Peru, from ruins high in the Andes to wildlife deep in the Amazon. Embrace cultures past and present in Cuzco before travelling by rail to Machu Picchu. With years of experience, we directly employ the finest guides so that you'll see the best of the region. And, with no hiking, you’ll have lots of time to explore ruins, museums and markets. Following your visit to the Andes, travel deep into the Amazon to explore the jungle.
Highlights: Exploring the Sacred Valley ruins and bargaining in local markets, enjoying the view from the train to Machu Picchu, tracking wildlife at our exclusive G Lodge Amazon, learning traditional weaving at the Women's Weaving Co-op
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
Andes to the Atlantic Experience (SXLR)
From the heights of the Bolivian Andes to the sands of Ipanema, this incredible 25-day journey will introduce you to the diverse landscape and people of South America. Explore the wetlands of the Pantanal, the bizarre landscape of the Uyuni Salt Flats and revel in the mists of thundering Iguassu Falls. Gain greater insight into the culture on the region’s public buses and meet locals from the rural towns along the way for an immersive experience that few travellers get to know. Get off the beaten path and experience Bolivia and Brazil—a vibrant cross-section of South America.
Highlights: Exploring the salt flats of Uyuni on a 3-day 4x4 excursion, Discovering colonial cities and historic cultures in Bolivia, Searching for wildlife in the Brazilian Pantanal, Marvelling at the power of Iguassu Falls.
Atlantic to the Andes Experience (SXRL)
From the sands of Ipanema to the heights of the Bolivian Andes, this incredible 25-day journey will introduce you to the diverse landscape and people of South America. Explore the wetlands of the Pantanal, the bizarre landscape of Salar de Uyuni and revel in the mists of thundering Iguassu Falls. Gain greater insight into the culture on the region’s public buses and meet locals from the rural towns along the way for an immersive experience that few travellers get to know. Get off the beaten path and experience Brazil and Bolivia —a vibrant cross-section of South America.
Highlights: Standing in awe of Iguassu Falls, searching for wildlife in the Brazilian Pantanal, encountering colonial cities and historic cultures in Bolivia, exploring the Uyuni salt flats by 4x4.
Southern Cross Westbound - Rio to Lima (SZRM)
From the sands of Ipanema to the heights of the Bolivian Andes, this incredible 25-day journey will introduce you to the diverse landscape and people of South America. Explore the wetlands of the Pantanal, the bizarre landscape of the Uyuni Salt Flats and revel in the mists of thundering Iguassu Falls. Gain greater insight into the culture on the region’s public buses and meet locals from the rural towns along the way for an immersive experience that few travellers get to know. Get off the beaten path and experience Brazil and Bolivia —a vibrant cross-section of South America.
Highlights: Be awed by Iguassu Falls, Search for wildlife in the Brazilian Pantanal, Spend 3 days exploring the Uyuni Salt Flats and high mountain wilderness by 4x4, Settle in with the locals at a homestay on Lake Titicaca, Conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu,
Wonders of Brazil (SZWB)
From the cobblestone streets of colonial Paraty to remote interior wilderness, uncover the wonders of Brazil in two exciting weeks. Experience Iguassu Falls—so massive they straddle two countries and so intriguing you'll need two days to fully appreciate them. Not to be outdone, the Pantanal wetlands are teeming with wildlife like caiman, jaguar and exotic birds. Finally, trade early morning songbirds for samba nights in Rio and the rhythm of the beach. This adventure provides natural and cultural highlights and the best Brazil has to offer.
Highlights: Wandering the cobblestone streets of colonial Paraty, living it up in Rio, marvelling at Iguassu Falls, encountering wildlife in the Brazilian Pantanal, sipping caipirinhas on the beach.
The Glaciers Experience (TSAEXC)
Spend four days in El Calafate and explore a piece of Argentina's incredible Patagonia region. Witness active Perito Moreno glacier, as massive ice chunks crack off and crash into the chilly waters of Lago Argentino below—one of Mother Nature's most stunning displays of power. On your free day, walk the town at your leisure, cruise the lake, or visit one of the several other glaciers of this awe-inspiring area.
Highlights: Exploring stunning El Calafate, marvelling at the dramatic Perito Moreno Glacier.
The Glaciers Experience (TSAEXN)
Spend four days in El Calafate and explore a piece of Argentina's incredible Patagonia region. Witness active Perito Moreno, as massive ice chunks crack off and crash into the chilly waters of Lago Argentino below—one of Mother Nature's most stunning displays of power. On your free day, walk the town at your leisure, cruise the lake, or visit one of the several other glaciers of this awe-inspiring area.
Highlights: Witnessing the massive Perito Moreno Glacier
Argentina Gourmet & Community (TSAGAN)
Most trips concentrate on seeing and doing things. On this one, creating and tasting take centre-stage. Perfect as an add-on for a longer South American trip, this brief adventure in Buenos Aires and its surrounds introduces you to the culinary delights of Argentina by giving you the chance to make them yourself. Visit a Planeterra-sponsored culinary school for youth during the day, then take in a tango performance and hit BA’s legendary club scene by night. The secret ingredient in this awesome recipe? You.
Highlights: Learning to cook mouth-watering traditional Argentine specialties, assisting chefs at a community project for local youths.
Glacier National Park—El Chaltén (TSAGNN)
Hike through some of the most dramatic scenery in the world on this active foray into Argentine Patagonia. Be awed by the towering, snowy peaks and breathtakingly beautiful glacial lakes. Watch behemoth ice chunks calving off Perito Moreno and wander Glacier National Park. You'll work up a sweat and get ready to be truly impressed by Mother Nature on this active and scenic 6-day tour.
Highlights: Exploring the wonders of Glacier National Park, Hiking the scenic trails of Patagonia
Iguassu Falls (TSAIFN)
Experience the stunning beauty and raw power of one of the greatest natural wonders on earth—Iguassu Falls. Wider than Victoria Falls and taller than Niagara, Iguassu Falls are set in the tropical jungles near the 3-way border between Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. On this complete falls experience, you'll spend four days exploring both the Argentine and Brazilian sides. Iguassu is one of those places that needs to be seen to be believed.
Highlights: Being awed by Iguassu Falls, getting up close and personal with the falls on an optional boat ride
Easter Island (TSCRNB)
Unravel the mystery of Rapa Nui. Explore mythical Easter Island, known around the world for its ancient monolithic stone statues. See the mysterious statues, or Moai, sprinkled throughout the island, tour the volcanoes, beaches and petroglyphs and get to know the unique culture of one of the most remote islands on earth.
Highlights: Exploring the ruins and monolithic heads of the island, Admiring volcanoes and beaches, Searching for prehistoric paintings at the Ana Kai Tangata cavern.
Easter Island (TSCRNN)
Unravel the mystery of Rapa Nui. Explore mythical Easter Island, known around the world for its ancient monolithic stone statues. See the mysterious statues, or Moai, sprinkled throughout the island, tour the volcanoes, beaches and petroglyphs, and get to know the unique culture of one of the most remote islands on earth.
Highlights: Touring the Moai route and exploring the Ana Tepahu and Ana Kai caverns, Visiting the quarry of Puna Pau, Learning more about the islanders at Orongo Cultural Center
Galapagos Isabela Island Package (TSEGLN)
See a different side of the Galapagos from your base on the archipelago's two largest islands, Isabela and Santa Cruz. Travel by air, road and speedboat to Isabela Island. Hike around Sierra Negra Volcano's massive crater, visit a tortoise breeding centre and shark resting grounds. Witness flamingos in the wild, visit the world-renowned Charles Darwin Research Centre and enjoy plenty of opportunities to snorkel along the way.
Highlights: Hiking up Sierra Negra Volcano - the second largest volcanic crater in the world and walking on the lava fields, Observing flamingos at an isolated lagoon, Being amazed at the unique wildlife of the Galapagos
Galapagos Isabela Island Add-On (TSEGSN)
Want more Galapagos? Extend your stay by adding this 4-day adventure. See a different side of the Galapagos from your base on the archipelago's largest island, Isabela. Hike to a giant volcanic crater, visit a tortoise breeding centre and shark resting ground—and stop at the site of the island's former penal colony. Along the way spot flamingos, penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas. Snorkel Isabela's palm-lined beaches.
Highlights: Visiting the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, Swimming and snorkelling in paradise, Hiking up Sierra Negra Volcano - the second largest volcanic crater in the world
La Selva Lodge (TSEJ4L)
Head deep into the Amazon Basin to La Selva Lodge, on tranquil Garzacocha Lake, itself connected to the massive Amazon River system. Walk on raised platforms through the jungle, spot birds from a canopy-level tower, fish for piranha from dug-out canoes, look for caiman on night paddles or simply relax in the hammock of your comfortable cabin. La Selva's great food and friendly knowledgeable staff make it even easier to enjoy this paradise of unparalleled biodiversity.
Highlights: Exploring the Amazon jungle by foot and canoe, Learning about this diverse ecosystem with local naturalists.
| Trip | Length | Style | Service Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guyana Wildlife Adventure (SGWA) | 12 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$3499
USD
|
| Colombia Highlights (SMCH) | 12 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1999
USD
|
| Southern Divide (SMS) | 22 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$3599
USD
|
| Backroads & Highlands of Peru (SPBH) | 17 days | Classic | Basic |
From
$1200
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1599
|
| The Inca Journey (SPIJ) | 10 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$2199
USD
|
| Machu Picchu Adventure (SPMP) | 8 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Andes to the Atlantic Experience (SXLR) | 25 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$3449
USD
|
| Atlantic to the Andes Experience (SXRL) | 25 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$3499
USD
|
| Southern Cross Westbound - Rio to Lima (SZRM) | 39 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$5199
USD
|
| Wonders of Brazil (SZWB) | 13 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$2699
USD
|
| The Glaciers Experience (TSAEXC) | 4 days | Classic | Comfort |
From
$549
USD
|
| The Glaciers Experience (TSAEXN) | 4 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$599
USD
|
| Argentina Gourmet & Community (TSAGAN) | 4 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1069
USD
|
| Glacier National Park—El Chaltén (TSAGNN) | 6 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$699
USD
|
| Iguassu Falls (TSAIFN) | 4 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$399
USD
|
| Easter Island (TSCRNB) | 4 days | Classic | Basic |
From
$549
USD
|
| Easter Island (TSCRNN) | 4 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$649
USD
|
| Galapagos Isabela Island Package (TSEGLN) | 7 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1999
USD
|
| Galapagos Isabela Island Add-On (TSEGSN) | 4 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$849
USD
|
| La Selva Lodge (TSEJ4L) | 4 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1069
USD
|
