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.
Explore Galapagos - Southern, Central and East Islands (EV10MD)
Encounter the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first weighed anchor off its shores. Spend eight days exploring the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago in the company of an expert Naturalist Guide. In the evenings, return to the Xavier (G4) to reflect on the day’s adventures. Retire to air-conditioned cabins with exclusive lower berths and private bathrooms. As one of the region’s largest operators, we understand the importance of controlling the onboard experience—that’s why you'll never end up on another operator's ship.
Highlights: Onboard Xavier (G4): 7 nights cruising through the Galapagos National Park, snorkelling with sea lions and discovering amazing marine life, coming face to face with 200 year old giant tortoises, hiking along dramatic lava flows and exploring colonies of sea birds and sea lions, finding marine iguanas relaxing in the sunshine
- Trip Style:
- Small Ship Cruising & Sailing
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Amazon To The Andes & Galapagos, Western Islands (PA10HA)
Hike the Inca Trail to the Lost City of Machu Picchu, explore the steamy Amazon from the comfort of our intimate G Lodge Amazon and spend seven nights aboard our exclusive G3 vessel, snorkelling the waters of the Galapagos—experience the iconic highlights of South America in one incredible adventure. Our exclusively operated fleet of yachts offers great value—and because we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment as you follow the Inca Trail to majestic Machu Picchu.
Highlights: Explore the Sacred Valley, trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, spot wildlife in the Amazon, cruise the Galápagos National Park abord the Daphne (G3), snorkel with sea lions and search for sea turtles in secluded bays, hike the Sierra Negra volcano—the largest basaltic caldera in the Galápagos, land on the seldom-visited Fernandina island—home to some of the the most diverse wildlife and vegetation in the Galápagos
Absolute Peru & Galapagos Northern & Central Islands (PH07HB)
Explore Peru's southern coast and its Incan Highlands. From the soaring heights of the Inca Trail to the steamy jungle stay at the exclusive G Lodge Amazon, this epic journey includes an all-encompassing tour of Peru and four nights exploring the Galapagos. As one of the biggest tour operators in the region, our exclusively operated fleet of yachts offers great value—and because we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment as you follow the Inca Trail to majestic Machu Picchu.
Highlights: Cruise the Galápagos National Park aboard the Daphne (G3), trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, explore extraordinary frigatebird and booby cliff colonies on Genovesa, learn about about the biological history of the islands from your naturalist guide, witness Lake Titicaca and the Nazca Lines, encounter wildlife in the Amazon Jungle
Amazon Riverboat Adventure & the Inca Sacred Empire (PPIIA)
Experience Peru's diverse landscape, culture and cuisine in one comprehensive adventure. In the company of an Amazon Reserve naturalist guide, board small motorized skiffs for excursions that will bring you face to face with wildlife. From the Amazon, ascend to the Andes and Lake Titicaca. Interact with locals, explore ruins and delight in views of the Sacred Valley from your coach as you travel by rail to Machu Picchu. This is adventure in style!
Highlights: Looking down into the jungle from a canopy walkway, exploring the Sacred Valley and Pacaya Samiria Reserve, meeting locals on Lake Titicaca, absorbing Machu Picchu's stunning vistas.
- Trip Style:
- Small Ship Cruising & Sailing
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 3
In The Shadow Of Machu Picchu (PSM)
Big on comfort for those short on time, this journey offers an intriguing combination of natural wonders and local cultures. Whether you’re scanning the canopy for wildlife from the comfort of our intimate and exclusive G Lodge Amazon, embracing cultures past and present in the former Inca capital of Cuzco or choosing to hike the Inca Trail or catch the scenic train, this is the once-in-a-lifetime adventure for you! 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 the majesty of Machu Picchu.
Highlights: Spotting wildlife at the exclusive G Lodge Amazon, exploring the Incan city of Cuzco, conquering the Inca Trail or enjoying the scenic train 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.
Highlights of Argentina & Brazil (SAABD)
It takes two to tango and a combination of natural wonders and urban thrills to really experience South America. From dance lessons in Buenos Aires to the samba rhythm of Rio, infuse your experience with the continent’s soulful spirit. Travel deep into the interior and explore spectacular Iguassu Falls. Travel days are well paced and domestic flights to remote attractions minimize travel time so you can maximize time exploring this region’s treasures. From small towns where you’ll hang out with the locals to barbecue feasts, get a true taste of this region’s vibrant culture.
Highlights: Learning firsthand about Argentine wine and the tango from local experts, Taking a chef-instructed cooking lesson and enjoying dinner at a local farm, Experiencing a traditional Brazilian barbecue with a local family, Observing one of the natural wonders of the world at Iguassu Falls
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
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.
Patagonia Dreaming (SAPD)
For outdoor enthusiasts who have a bit more time to explore the region's stunning natural beauty, this comprehensive adventure takes in Chile and Argentina's Patagonia. Explore Bariloche and wind through the mountains to Chile's lake district, then head south and trek extensively through some of South America’s premiere hiking destinations. With ample time in Torres del Paine, you’ll also encounter the Perito Moreno Glacier and trek Glacier National Park before heading to the 'end of the earth'— Ushuaia. With years of experience running tours in Patagonia, we employ world-class guides who’ll lead you to our exclusive campsites, ensuring stunning views.
Highlights: Exploring the Lake District, trekking the 'W Route' in Torres del Paine, marvelling at Perito Moreno Glacier, reaching the 'end of the earth' in Ushuaia, feeling sophisticated in Buenos Aires.
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.
Southern Highlights (SBR)
If time’s a little tight and you want to sample the region’s natural wonders without sacrificing some of South America’s most vibrant cities, there’s no better way to explore Argentina and Brazil. Savour the samba in Rio one night while exploring subtropical rainforest the next. From tango in the streets of Buenos Aires to the tangle of rainforest surrounding Iguassu Falls, this 8-day itinerary offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and cosmopolitan culture.
Highlights: Enjoying dinner with a local family, feeling sophisticated in Buenos Aires, being awed by Iguassu Falls, sipping a caipirinha on the beach in Southern Brazil.
Ecuador Volcanoes & Cloud Forest (SECVD)
As you straddle the equator at the 'Middle of the World', it occurs to you that being in two places at once is pretty invigorating. Ecuador has that effect on travellers and this convenient week-long adventure is bursting with opportunity. Fill a suitcase and empty your purse in Otavalo’s market, which occupies much of the town. Spot birds in the cloud forest of Mindo and soak in the scenery while relaxing in Papallacta’s hot springs. A trip to Ecuador is more about attitude than its latitude. With all the inclusions and unique expert guide and accommodations—historic haciendas, cloud forest lodge—this trip has it, too.
Highlights: Exploring small towns and villages of the Andes and immersing into local culture, Learning about traditional handicrafts and folk art from local artisans, Encountering volcanic craters and hotsprings, Setting foot in both hemispheres at the 'middle of the earth', Traversing a cloud forest with a local naturalist
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Essential Ecuador (SEEE)
From the outdoor playground of Baños to the bustling lanes of the Otavalo market, get an introduction to the culture, history and spectacular scenery of Ecuador on this 8-day adventure. Venture through the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' amidst the Andean mountain scenery and mingle with the locals. Because we have years of experience in Quito and an established operational office, we’ll take care of the hassles—so that you can focus on the highlights. And, with a guided tour of the Ingapirca ruins and plenty of optional excursions, this adventure offers up a great combination of must-see highlights and free time to do your own thing.
Highlights: Soaking in Andean hot springs, pursuing outdoor adventure in Baños, driving along the scenic 'Avenue of the Volcanoes', exploring Incan ruins and colonial cities, bartering with the local artisans at Otavalo's Market.
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.
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
Local Living Ecuador: Amazon Jungle (SEJL)
The Amazon rainforest is so full of life; embrace it for yourself during a week unlike any other. From Quito, you’ll travel to your new home in the jungle and meet the Quichua family who will host you in their home for the next four nights. Discover waterfalls on jungle walks and travel to an animal rescue centre by canoe. You’ll learn about medicinal plants and how to use a blowgun, experience a shaman ceremony, and visit a local school. Most importantly, you’ll befriend a people few outsiders have the honour to even meet.
Highlights: Living like a local in the Amazon rainforest, learning Quichua traditions by interacting with a local family, visiting an animal rescue centre, honing your blowgun skills, experiencing a shaman ceremony.
- Trip Style:
- Local Living
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 2
The Great South American Journey - Quito to Rio Adventure (SEQR)
Sometimes the slow road is the way to go. Hit the road from Quito to Rio with other young travellers and experience pretty much everything you can imagine in between. Hike the Inca Trail and discover the thriving Inca culture, cross the salt flats of Bolivia, dance the tango in Buenos Aires, and hit the beach in Brazil. This trip offers up lively cities, stunning scenery, and tons of adventure. 65 days, 7 countries, 3 nights in the Amazon and 1 adventure you’ll remember forever.
Highlights: Mingling with the locals at a homestay in the Amazon, spotting condors at Colca Canyon, conquering the Inca Trail on the way to Machu Picchu, experiencing traditional life on Lake Titicaca, crossing the Uyuni Salt Flats and surrounding desert altiplano on a 4x4 excursion, being awed by Iguassu Falls.
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 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.
| Trip | Length | Style | Service Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Explore Galapagos - Southern, Central and East Islands (EV10MD) | 10 days | Small Ship Cruising & Sailing | Comfort |
From
$3699
USD
|
| Amazon To The Andes & Galapagos, Western Islands (PA10HA) | 21 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$6099
USD
|
| Absolute Peru & Galapagos Northern & Central Islands (PH07HB) | 27 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$5699
USD
|
| Amazon Riverboat Adventure & the Inca Sacred Empire (PPIIA) | 17 days | Small Ship Cruising & Sailing | Comfort |
From
$4299
USD
|
| In The Shadow Of Machu Picchu (PSM) | 10 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$2499
USD
|
| The Ecuador Experience (REE) | 18 days | Classic | Basic |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Highlights of Argentina & Brazil (SAABD) | 10 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$2999
USD
|
| Iguassu & Beyond (SAIB) | 9 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1849
USD
|
| Patagonia Dreaming (SAPD) | 19 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$4699
USD
|
| Brazil and Argentina on a Shoestring (SAZD) | 11 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1699
USD
|
| Southern Highlights (SBR) | 8 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$2399
USD
|
| Ecuador Volcanoes & Cloud Forest (SECVD) | 8 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$1399
USD
|
| Essential Ecuador (SEEE) | 8 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1499
USD
|
| Ecuador Multisport (SEEM) | 9 days | Active | Standard |
From
$899
USD
|
| Galapagos on a Shoestring (SEGS) | 9 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1912
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2249
|
| Local Living Ecuador: Amazon Jungle (SEJL) | 7 days | Local Living | Basic |
From
$499
USD
|
| The Great South American Journey - Quito to Rio Adventure (SEQR) | 65 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$7049
USD
|
| Guyana Wildlife Adventure (SGWA) | 12 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$3499
USD
|
| Colombia Experience (SMCE) | 12 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$2499
USD
|
| Colombia Highlights (SMCH) | 12 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1999
USD
|
