Its landmass encompasses everything from Andean cordilleras to Earth’s largest tropical rainforest and Patagonian ice fields, but South America’s riches aren’t merely topographical. Historically, it’s a palimpsest of pre-Columbian and conquistador influences, shaped more recently by modern political fortunes. Our specialists — many of whom are Spanish and Portuguese speakers — can show you how to see the headline grabbers, such as Machu Picchu, and beyond on a bespoke South America tour.
They can recommend less-hyped experiences for your South America vacation, which offer a window into the food, dance and traditions of the continent’s native, European and African cultures. Indeed, many of our specialists draw on their time living in South America to help you experience it as fully as possible, whether your interests lie in a Galapagos expedition cruise or sampling the finest Argentinian vintages.
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Trip ideas in South America
These itineraries will give you a starting point for what your trip could entail. They cover routes that we've found work particularly well and feature some of our favorite places to stay. Treat them just as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.
Our expert guides to exploring South America
Capturing our specialists’ extensive travel experience in South America, these guides share inspiration, recommendations and our honest advice for how to enjoy the best of what the region can offer in the most authentic ways. From the wealth of options we describe, you can narrow down the choices and start to shape your own trip.
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What to do in Patagonia: our highlights guide ![Snow-capped mountains in Parque Patagonia, Aysén]()
What to do in Patagonia: our highlights guide
What to do in Patagonia: our highlights guide
Patagonia stretches across both Chile and Argentina, and down to the frozen waters of the Southern Ocean. Latin America specialist, Ann, selects her top things to do when visiting this vast region.
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Where to go in the Amazon: planning your journey into the rainforest ![Caiman, Peruvian Amazon]()
Where to go in the Amazon: planning your journey into the rainforest
Where to go in the Amazon: planning your journey into the rainforest
Audley specialist Rebecca shares why she loves the Amazon, but explains that planning a trip there comes with a few caveats. She suggests you ask yourself: what is it I really want to see and do in the rainforest?
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What to do in Brazil: our highlights guide ![The view from Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro]()
What to do in Brazil: our highlights guide
What to do in Brazil: our highlights guide
Country specialist, Georgia, chooses some of her favorite things to see and do and where to stay in Brazil. Highlights include spending time in Rio and Salvador, the Amazon and the Pantanal’s wetlands, the best way to see the Iguaçu Falls and her pick of Brazil’s many beaches.
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Bitesize Brazil: how to cut down internal flights but not experiences ![Chapada Diamantina National Park]()
Bitesize Brazil: how to cut down internal flights but not experiences
Bitesize Brazil: how to cut down internal flights but not experiences
Planning a trip to Brazil? Hate flying? Here are four ways of seeing some of the country’s standout highlights — including sultry Rio, the spectacle of the Iguaçu Falls, the Amazon Rainforest, and some secluded beaches — with minimal internal flights.
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My perfect trip: a grand tour of mainland Ecuador ![Quito & the Cotopaxi Volcano]()
My perfect trip: a grand tour of mainland Ecuador
My perfect trip: a grand tour of mainland Ecuador
Ecuador’s more than the Galapagos Islands: it’s South America in miniature. Specialist Caroline talks you through her ideal trip, which includes some of the country’s unsung heroes — from Andean highlands to Amazon backwaters — and her pick of its finest properties.
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Machu Picchu plus one: tried-and-tested South American combinations ![Machu Picchu, Peru]()
Machu Picchu plus one: tried-and-tested South American combinations
Machu Picchu plus one: tried-and-tested South American combinations
Did you know that thanks to ever-improving flight connections, you can easily combine Machu Picchu with other South American destinations such as the Galapagos and Argentina — without the need to extend your trip drastically? Our specialists explain how.
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Best of brazil: tips for a first-time visitor ![Caiman lounging around in the Brazilian Pantanal, Brazil]()
Best of brazil: tips for a first-time visitor
Best of brazil: tips for a first-time visitor
Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world and one of the most diverse, with a huge array of landscapes, people and culture. Discover our top tips for the best places to go on a first-time visit to this magnificent country.
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What to do in Ecuador: our highlights guide ![Canoe trip to Napo Wildlife Centre, Ecuador]()
What to do in Ecuador: our highlights guide
What to do in Ecuador: our highlights guide
Although famous for the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador offers the visitor a wealth of other attractions, from active volcanoes and spectacular train journeys, to UNESCO World Heritage cities and wildlife trips to the Amazon.
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Driving vacations in Chile & Argentina ![The Road to Lago General Carrera, Aisen]()
Driving vacations in Chile & Argentina
Driving vacations in Chile & Argentina
A self-drive trip through Chile or Argentina is ideal for those looking for the flexibility to go where they want, when they want. Our specialists will advise on the routes to take as well as the best places to see and the accommodations you should stay in.
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