Plan a Trip to South America

Machu Picchu, the Amazon, Rio and Patagonia. South America stuns with ancient ruins, rainforest, glaciers and vibrant cities — and a specialist ties the big distances into one great trip.

South America is a continent of superlatives: the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and Peru’s Sacred Valley, the Amazon rainforest, Rio de Janeiro’s beaches and Carnival, Buenos Aires’ tango and steak, the glaciers and peaks of Patagonia, Iguazú Falls, and the wildlife of the Galápagos. Countries are large and far apart, seasons flip below the equator, and the best experiences often need permits and guides booked well ahead — so planning matters. A travel specialist combines the right countries and season, arranges internal flights, rail and guides, and secures the Machu Picchu and Galápagos permits that sell out.

Why Plan a South America Trip with a Specialist?

Ancient wonders

Machu Picchu & the Inca trail.

Nature & wildlife

Amazon, Patagonia & Galápagos.

Vibrant cities

Rio, Buenos Aires & Cartagena.

Permits & logistics

Machu Picchu & Galápagos handled.

Ways to Explore South America

Christ the Redeemer overlooking Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Peru & Machu Picchu

Cusco, the Sacred Valley & the citadel.

Brazil

Rio, Iguazú & the Amazon.

Argentina & Patagonia

Buenos Aires & the glaciers.

Galápagos

Wildlife cruises & island hopping.

Popular South America Trip Ideas

Peru: Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Brazil: Rio, Iguazú Falls & the Amazon
Argentina & Chile: Buenos Aires & Patagonia
Galápagos wildlife cruises
Multi-country Andes & Amazon journeys

Ready to plan your South America trip?

Tell us the countries, dates and interests and we’ll build the itinerary, flights, guides and permits. Get up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a travel specialist.

Get up to 5 South America quotes!

Or contact a South America travel specialist »

Why Smart Traveler?

Smart Traveler is a service of the travel division of Best of the USA, Inc. Entrust your trip to seasoned professionals specializing in cruises, tours, vacation packages, all-inclusive resorts and international airfares. With over 50,000 travel advisors in our growing database, we’re sure to have the experts right for your travel needs!

50+ years of expertise

Five decades fine-tuning the art of travel — every journey a masterpiece.

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Tradition blended with technology — book your dream trip with a click.

Exclusive proprietary rates

Insider access to rates and partnerships unavailable to the average traveler.

Planning a Trip to South America — Frequently Asked Questions

How many countries should I combine?

For 2–3 weeks, 2–3 countries is comfortable given the distances; a specialist pairs compatible destinations and seasons.

Do I need permits for Machu Picchu or the Galápagos?

Yes — Machu Picchu entries and Inca Trail permits and Galápagos cruises sell out months ahead; a specialist secures them.

When is the best time to visit South America?

Seasons are reversed below the equator and vary by region; a specialist times your route (e.g., dry-season Patagonia).

How do I get a quote?

Request up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a travel specialist and compare itineraries, dates and tour styles.