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South America Tours $5001 to $6000 2025/2026

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South America Travel Guide

Explore South America Tours $5001 to $6000 2025/2026

South America, a continent of astounding natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. Touring South America means immersing yourself in a world of diverse landscapes, from the Amazon Rainforest's lush greenery to the majestic Andes Mountains and the vibrant culture of its people. The continent is famous for its breathtaking natural wonders like the Iguazu Falls, the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu, and the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. Each country, from Brazil's bustling cities to the serene beauty of Patagonia, presents a unique blend of indigenous and colonial cultures. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, enjoying lively festivals, or marveling at the natural wonders, South America promises a journey filled with adventure, discovery, and inspiration. With tour operator volume buys plus our low everyday prices you can save up to 40% versus assembling the same itinerary on your own! Book your South America tour today with AffordableTours.com, your discounted tour headquarters. View South America Tour Deals and Discounts

South America Travel Guide
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11 DaysG AdventuresBudgetSmall Ship Cruising1 - Light  10+ years old134UshuaiaUshuaiaAntarctica, Argentina
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12 DaysGlobusFirst ClassEscortedLimaLimaPeru
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16 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependent8+ years oldRio de JaneiroSantiagoArgentina, Brazil, ChileView Tour
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12 DaysGlobusFirst ClassEscortedRio de JaneiroSantiagoArgentina, Brazil, Chile
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Itinerary Map20 DaysCosmosBudgetEscorted3 - Explorer  Rio de JaneiroLimaArgentina, Brazil, Chile, PeruView Tour
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19 DaysCosmosBudgetEscorted3 - Explorer  Rio de JaneiroLimaArgentina, Brazil, Chile, PeruView Tour
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16 DaysCosmosBudgetEscorted3 - Explorer  ManausSantiagoArgentina, Brazil, ChileView Tour
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19 DaysCosmosBudgetEscorted3 - Explorer  Rio de JaneiroLimaArgentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru
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South America Travel Guide

South America Tours Highlights

Iconic Sites and Attractions in South America

South America is home to a plethora of iconic sites and attractions, each offering unique insights into the continent's natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. From ancient ruins to natural marvels, these destinations are must-visits for any traveler.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil: Straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is a spectacular natural wonder comprising a series of magnificent waterfalls. Set amidst a lush rainforest, these falls are taller and wider than Niagara Falls, offering a breathtaking display of nature's power. The surrounding national park is home to diverse wildlife, enhancing the experience.

Christ the Redeemer, Brazil: Overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer is an iconic symbol of Brazil. This massive statue of Jesus Christ stands atop Mount Corcovado, offering stunning views of the city and its beaches. The statue is not only a marvel of modern engineering but also a cultural landmark, representing the warmth and openness of Brazilian culture.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are an archipelago of volcanic islands famed for their unique wildlife and natural beauty. These islands, which inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, offer unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, from giant tortoises to marine iguanas.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia: Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, offers an otherworldly landscape. Located in the Bolivian Andes, this vast white expanse creates a mirror effect after rains, reflecting the sky in a surreal display. It's also home to colorful lagoons, diverse wildlife, and rustic salt hotels.

Machu Picchu, Peru: Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, is perched high in the Andean Mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its well-preserved ruins and panoramic views, is a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Incas. The mysterious citadel, accessible via the Inca Trail, offers a glimpse into the region's ancient history and is a symbol of Peru's cultural heritage.  

Patagonia, Argentina, and Chile: Patagonia, at the southern end of South America, is a region of awe-inspiring natural beauty. Known for its dramatic landscapes of glaciers, fjords, and mountains, it's a prime destination for hiking, trekking, and wildlife watching.

Atacama Desert, Chile: The Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, offers otherworldly landscapes of salt flats, geysers, and lunar-like valleys. It's also one of the best places in the world for stargazing.

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile: Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is renowned for its stunning mountain peaks, bright blue glaciers, and diverse wildlife. Its well-marked trails and beautiful vistas make it a popular hiking destination.

South America Tours Travel Tips

  • Languages in South America are a reflection of its history, with Spanish and Portuguese being the most widely spoken due to colonial heritage. However, many indigenous languages like Quechua, Aymara, and Guarani are still prevalent and an integral part of the cultural fabric.
  • Festivals in South America are vibrant and varied, showcasing the continent's passion for music, dance, and celebration. Brazil's Carnival is perhaps the most famous, a dazzling display of samba, costumes, and festivities. Argentina's Tango Festival and Peru's Inti Raymi are other significant cultural events that attract global attention.
  • Customs and traditions across South America are deeply rooted in both indigenous cultures and colonial history. From the Andean rituals in Bolivia and Peru to the gaucho culture in Argentina, these traditions offer a glimpse into the continent's soul.
  • The arts play a crucial role in South American culture, with a rich history in literature, music, and dance. The continent has produced literary giants like Gabriel García Márquez and Pablo Neruda. Music styles like Salsa, Tango, and Bossa Nova have global followings, and traditional dances are an integral part of cultural celebrations.
  • Tourists seeking high-altitude adventures find their haven in the Andes Mountains. Touring iconic trails like the Inca Trail in Peru or embarking on the W Trek in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park, they're treated to breathtaking views and challenging treks. These mountains also cater to skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, particularly in Argentina and Chile, where the winter season spans from June to October.
  • The Amazon Rainforest, spanning across multiple countries, including Brazil and Colombia, is the largest rainforest in the world. Its immense biodiversity and the richness of indigenous cultures make it a must-visit for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
  • Patagonia, straddling Argentina and Chile, is famed for its stunning glaciers, fjords, and plains. Tourists here can enjoy trekking, horseback riding, and kayaking, with national parks like Los Glaciares and Torres del Paine offering some of the finest outdoor experiences.
  • The Atacama Desert in northern Chile, the driest desert in the world, offers tours through unique landscapes like salt flats, hot springs, and geysers, making it a prime spot for stargazing, sandboarding, and lunar-like exploration.
  • A culinary tour through South America is a feast for the senses, offering a diverse palette of flavors and dishes unique to each country. From the hearty meat dishes of Argentina to the fresh seafood of Peru, the continent's cuisine is as varied as its landscapes.  
  • Transportation on these tours is typically comfortable and efficient, taking the stress out of navigating through diverse and sometimes challenging terrains. This convenience allows you to enjoy the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities without worrying about logistics.

South America Tours Things To Do

  • Uncover the legend of the Inca civilization at Machu Picchu
    Uncover the legend of the Inca civilization at Machu Picchu

    Every year, over one million tourists visit Machu Picchu, Peru's most-visited attraction. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the site is one of the best-preserved examples of the Incan civilization. Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for preserving the ruins. The impressive community built atop a mountain features several notable structures and engineering feats – Temple of the Sun, Room of the Three Windows, and a modern irrigation system. The site holds lots of mysteries about its purpose and the fate of the Incan society.  

    Best Time To Visit

    Visitors can reach Machu Picchu via hiking or train. The best way to experience the site is hiking up the mountain in time for the beautiful sunrise over Machu Picchu.

  • Take a selfie in front of the Christ the Redeemer statue
    Take a selfie in front of the Christ the Redeemer statue

    Peer up to the top of the Corcovado Mountain from anywhere in Rio de Janeiro, and you'll see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue keeping watch over the city. Christ the Redeemer is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and one of the country's most visited landmarks. Christ the Redeemer is a statue of Jesus Christ and a symbol of Christianity. Completed in 1931, it's a massive monument measuring 30-meters high and placed on an 8-meter tall pedestal. You'll have the best viewpoint overlooking Rio de Janeiro at the statue. One of the most popular ways to get a great photo at the site is lying down on the ground at the pedestal to get the entire statue in the picture.    

    Best Time To Visit

    For the best experience at the Christ the Redeemer statue, visit early when it first opens. Take the first tram ride to the top to beat the crowds so you'll have better photos and viewing experience.

  • Hang out at Copacabana Beach for the perfect day out in the sun
    Hang out at Copacabana Beach for the perfect day out in the sun

    Brazil is home to some of the most scenic beaches in the world. Copacabana Beach is the most famous beach, known for its crescent shape. It's ranked among the liveliest beaches with lots of activities happening during the day or night. Copacabana Beach is perfect for a day at the beach. The soft white sands and deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean make it a picturesque destination for relaxing or recreation. Some of the favorite things to do at the beach include swimming, sunbathing, soccer, and snorkeling.  

    You Should Know

    Copacabana Beach is one of the most developed beaches in Brazil thanks to its popularity. The 2.5-mile stretch features lots of hotels, shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

  • Hike to the Iguassu Falls to hear the roaring water
    Hike to the Iguassu Falls to hear the roaring water

    You'll hear the thundering roar of the Iguassu Falls long before you reach the jungle clearing to witness the world's largest waterfall. The U-shaped falls features 275 individual drops, with the highest having an 82-meter fall. Iguassu Falls is one of the must-visit natural landmarks when traveling to South America. There are various ways to experience the falls, including hiking around to different viewpoints or a helicopter tour for an aerial view.  

    You Should Know

    Iguassu Falls is located on the border of Argentina and Brazil. It's accessible from either side, each providing a different perspective of the falls if you can do them both. Visit the Iguazú National Park in Argentina and Iguaçu National Park in Brazil to begin the respective routes to the falls.  

     

    Best Time To Visit

    The peak tourist time to visit Iguassu Falls is during October and November when the falls are full.

  • Learn about the history of the Moai statues on Easter Island
    Learn about the history of the Moai statues on Easter Island

    Much of Easter Island is designated as the Rapa Nui National Park – it was established on the island in 1935 for preserving the unique moai statues. Rano Raraku is a volcanic crater in the national park and the site of the statues. There are approximately 887 moai statues, some representing heads protruding from the ground, and others fall body. The figures were built as early as 300 AD by indigenous island peoples and later restored during UNESCO preservation efforts.  

    You Should Know

    The moai statues of Easter Island are a mystery of how and why they were built. The hundreds of statues are diverse in appearance and size. The largest figure reaches over 21-meters tall and weighs hundreds of tons. Most people marvel at the sight of the statues and ponder how they were created during the time period.

  • Backpack around Patagonia for the ultimate South America adventure trip
    Backpack around Patagonia for the ultimate South America adventure trip

    Patagonia is a region covering parts of Chile and Argentina that's widely uninhabited for an adventure destination. Explore Patagonia to see the diverse landscape consisting of the Andes Mountain range, glaciers, deserts, and more. Adventure travelers have lots of things to do in Patagonia. Various tours aid with visiting the top tourist attractions or backpack the region for an authentic outdoor experience. Some of the popular activities in Patagonia include hiking, mountain climbing, camping, and whale watching. Visitors can also take cruises to Antarctica that starts at the southern tip of South America.  

    You Should Know

    Patagonia is a vast area to explore. Tours go to specific regions, but it's also a famous region to backpack across it. It's a beautiful photography destination for capturing some of the best nature photos of the landscape.

  • Visit the beaches of San Cristóbal Island when you arrive at the Galápagos Islands
    Visit the beaches of San Cristóbal Island when you arrive at the Galápagos Islands

    San Cristóbal Island is one of the most visited islands of the Galápagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador. It was made famous by Charles Darwin, who studied evolution here, but now is a popular tourist destination for its beauty and wildlife. The Island has fantastic beaches like Puerto Chino Beach and Cerro Brujo. Some of the wildlife inhabiting the island are tortoises, iguanas, dolphins, sea lions, and lots of marine life. There are also natural landmarks for sightseeing, such as El Junco, the largest freshwater lake in the Galápagos archipelago.  

    You Should Know

    There are multiple methods to get to San Cristóbal Island. Taking a boat trip from Ecuador or one of the nearby islands is a popular method. There is also an airport on the island with daily flights from Ecuador.

  • Admire the iconic Cathedral in the Santiago’s Plaza de Armas
    Admire the iconic Cathedral in the Santiago’s Plaza de Armas

    Santiago is Chile's capital and center for history and culture. Spend some time sightseeing around the city to see many of the local tourist attractions. Visit Plaza de Armas, the central square, for people watching and seeing notable buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago and Palacio de la Real Audiencia de Santiago. The cathedral is open to the public to explore the decorative interior. The square is a popular public gathering place for events, street performers, and vendors. Hike to the top of the San Cristóbal Hill for sweeping views of Santiago.  

    Best Time To Visit

    Go sightseeing during the morning or the day so that you can visit the local attractions when they're open. Also, exploring the city is a great way to get a sense of local city life. Guided tours provide lots of information about the history of Santiago.

South America Tour Packages

Deciding the best time to tour South America depends largely on the regions you plan to visit and the activities you're interested in. This diverse continent experiences a wide range of climates throughout the year.

For exploring the Andes and Patagonia, the Southern Hemisphere's summer months, from December to March, are ideal. During this period, you'll enjoy warmer temperatures and better access to hiking trails and outdoor activities.

If touring the Amazon Rainforest is on your agenda, the dry season, from June to September, is preferable. This period typically sees less rainfall, making wildlife viewing and jungle treks more accessible.

Beach lovers planning to tour Brazil's famous coastlines, such as Rio de Janeiro, will find the best conditions from November to March when the weather is sunny and warm.

For cultural experiences like Peru's Machu Picchu or the historic sites in Argentina and Chile, shoulder seasons – April to May and September to October – offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

  • Are You Ready to Tour South America?

    Are you ready to embark on a tour of South America, a continent bursting with vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history? From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the rhythm-filled streets of Rio de Janeiro, from the pristine Amazon Rainforest to the majestic Andes Mountains, South America offers a diverse array of experiences. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, this continent promises an unforgettable journey.

South America Tours Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are South America Tours?

    South American Tours provide travelers with multi-country experiences to the top destinations on the continent. Explore the natural wonders in the amazon or Patagonia or immerse in the rich cultures of Chile and Peru. The tours offer the chance to check off multiple countries from your bucket list and explore world-renowned landmarks.

  • What’s included in a South America Tour?

    Have you ever wanted to plan the perfect South American tour? The available tours explore attractions and landmarks across Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and even Antarctica. The wide range of tours offers fully-immersive experiences in a country of your choice or an all-inclusive package for traveling to several countries during one trip. You'll have a broad scope of South America and what makes it one of the top international travel destinations. Begin your South America tour today!

  • What’s the best South America Tour?

    Travelers of all kinds can find a suitable tour package for visiting South America. Whether you're traveling as a family or a solo backpacking journey across the continent, there's a perfect package waiting. Bring out your adventurous side with a journey to Patagonia or taste some of the delicious culinary treats in Argentina. Explore the hidden wildlife of the Amazon rain forest or watch the magical sunrise above Machu Picchu. South America tours are designed for the everyday traveler!

  • How much do South America tours cost?

    South America tours have the perfect travel package for everyone. We pass on our savings from bulk tour purchasing to the customer to get better rates than you'll find anywhere! Pick you a tour of your favorite country for less than $600 USD or choose a multi-country exploration packaged together at an unbeatable price!

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