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.
Land Galapagos—Multi-Activities (SEGL)
This 10-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. This adventure offers a great balance of guided excursions and free time—and optional activities abound.
Highlights: Encountering incredible wildlife, Snorkelling and swimming with sea turtles and manta rays, racing a bike downhill in San Cristóbal, searching for whitetip reef sharks in 'Shark Alley', hiking the Sierra Negra volcano, visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station.
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
Colombia Experience (SMCE)
Discover a corner of South America that's been off the tourist map for years without sacrificing your comfort on this fascinating Colombian adventure. You'll visit famous coffee plantations around Armenia and Salento and hit Medellín for museums and big city bustle. Indulge in the beauty of Santa Rosa del Cabal with a hot springs soak and immerse yourself in the colonial charm of Cartagena and the sophistication of Bogotá. This 12-day journey is an intriguing mixture of rural and urban—and culture and coffee.
Highlights: Sipping coffee amidst lush plantation scenery, Soaking in hot springs, Exploring Medellín and lazing on Caribbean beaches, Wandering the cobblestone streets in historic Cartagena.
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
Trekking the Huayhuash Circuit (SPHH)
Comparable to the Himalayas and the Rockies in terms of snow-capped alpine beauty, Peru’s Cordillera Huayhuash is a mountain-climber’s dream come true. Located in one of the most remote sections of the Andes, the range asks a lot from those who trek it, but your CEO has all the expertise, equipment and encouragement you’ll need to get the most out of these majestic peaks. Great on its own, this trip gets even better when paired with a Machu Picchu trek or any other Peru-based adventure.
Highlights: Taking in the glacial alpine scenery along the Huayhuash Circuit, challenging yourself conquering the high-altitude mountain passes, sleeping in tents under the stars in the remote wilderness.
- Trip Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 5
Peru Explorer (SPLC)
This classic 10-day trip is ideal for the traveller who is short on time but wants to soak up the colours, culture and history of Peru in style. Sail the waters of Lake Titicaca, explore ancient ruins and delight in thrilling views of the Sacred Valley from the comfort of your coach as you travel by rail to the cloud forest citadel of Machu Picchu. Travel by private van is well paced so you're refreshed and ready to explore Peru’s vibrant culture and incredible scenery on this condensed but exciting tour of the region’s highlights.
Highlights: Witnessing daily life on Lake Titicaca, exploring ancient ruins and haggling at Sacred Valley markets, taking in mountain views on the train to Machu Picchu, exploring the Incan city and ruins of Cuzco.
Amazon & Incan Adventure (SPPID)
If you’re looking to savour Peru’s highlands but don’t want to miss its rainforests, this is the adventure for you. Spot macaws in the jungle and caymans on the riverbanks before heading into the Andes. From the bustling city of Lima to the mystery of the Sacred Valley, our handpicked guides will bring you deep into the heart of the Incan empire. Embrace cultures past and present in Cuzco before marvelling at mountain vistas from the comfort of your coach as you travel by rail to Machu Picchu. From ancient ruins to the Amazon and Lake Titicaca, the mysteries of Peru await.
Highlights: Traversing the Amazon jungle for three nights with a local naturalist, Partaking in a cultural exchange with the indigenous peoples of Lake Titicaca, Experiencing on-site lectures with a local expert in the Sacred Valley and at Machu Picchu, Participating in demonstrations and tastings of local food and drink
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
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
Southern Explorer (SSR)
From natural wonders to some of the region’s most vibrant cities, experience the riches of South America on this comprehensive adventure that takes you from Chile to Argentina and Brazil. Enjoy the perfect combination of guided excursions and free time to explore the beauty of some of the world’s most breathtaking wonders—northern Patagonia and Iguassu Falls. Sip wine in Santiago, learn to tango in Buenos Aires and live it up in beachside Rio. Travel days are well paced and include short flights, allowing you the time to really experience the region’s highlights—in comfort and style.
Highlights: Appreciating the beauty of the Lake District's volcanoes, marvelling at Iguassu Falls, sipping caipirinhas on a Brazilian beach, experiencing a traditional family barbecue.
- Trip Style:
- G-Plus
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
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
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.
Iguassu Falls (TSAIFC)
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 of the 3-way border between Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Spend four days exploring, travelling to both the Argentinean and Brazilian sides on this complete experience of the falls—Iguassu is one of those places that needs to be seen to be believed.
Highlights: Standing in awe at the stunning Iguassu Falls, Catching views from the Argentine and Brazilian sides
| Trip | Length | Style | Service Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ecuador Multisport (SEEM) | 9 days | Active | Standard |
From
$899
USD
|
| Land Galapagos—Multi-Activities (SEGL) | 10 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$2999
USD
|
| Galapagos on a Shoestring (SEGS) | 9 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1912
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2249
|
| Colombia Experience (SMCE) | 12 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$2499
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
|
| Trekking the Huayhuash Circuit (SPHH) | 13 days | Active | Standard |
From
$1500
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1999
|
| Peru Explorer (SPLC) | 10 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1999
USD
|
| Amazon & Incan Adventure (SPPID) | 14 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$3399
USD
|
| Peru on a Shoestring (SPPS) | 15 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1749
USD
|
| Southern Explorer (SSR) | 15 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$3520
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$4399
|
| Trekking Roraima (SVTR) | 15 days | Active | Standard |
From
$2125
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2499
|
| 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
|
| Iguassu Falls (TSAIFC) | 4 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$499
USD
|
