South America Internal airfare and ground transport Tours...

South America Internal airfare and ground transport Tours & Trips

2,371 South America trips. Tours from 365 tour companies. 4,567 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

88 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Internal airfare and ground transport
Best of Peru with Machu Picchu
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By Odynovo
premier
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
They are able to handcraft custom trip plans in over 70 different destinations worldwide.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Aguas Calientes, Cusco, Lima, Ollantaytambo, Sacred Valley

Highlights

  • Visit the site of Qorikancha
  • Journey to the Sacred Valley
  • Explore the magnificent ruin site of the Inca Empire Machu Picchu
  • Walk through Plaza de Armas

Themes

Cultural, Photography

What travelers are saying

"I cannot say enough good things about Odynovo, both on the coordination end (we worked with Laura Li, who was fantastic!) to the on-site people (shout out to our airport contact in Cairo Hassan, our skilled driver Ahmed, our fun Cairo guide Mai, and our knowledgable Aswan/Luxor guide Hazem - BEST crew EVER!!!) who make your trip a seamless, safe, exciting, educational, and all-around transformative life highlight. This experience was seriously a bucket-list one for my husband and me, and I can NOT emphasize enough how important the Odynovo team was to making Egypt an infinitely easier context to navigate. If you've watched travel vloggers and social media influencers attempt to navigate Egypt on their own and complain about a negative experience, fear not - if you go with Odynovo, every. single. thing. will be taken care of. There is NOTHING to worry about, and the experience was entirely positive. The people, the food, the culture, the historical sites and stories - with Odynovo taking care of all the logistical details, these are the only things you need to focus on. I am full of gratitude for the experience I had in Egypt, and I credit Odynovo for it. I will absolutely use them in the future for other destinations, and I urge you to do the same. I know my Egypt experience would not have been nearly the same had I not gone with Odynovo. Check out our adventure here: https://youtu.be/vMlAmVk7vBY Also, a passionate recommendation from my experience: DEFINITELY make the trip to Abu Simbel!! It was a major highlight (we went in a private car that left Aswan around 9am since we'd flown in from Cairo that morning). We stopped at the High Dam first, so by the time we arrived at Abu Simbel, the tour busses were on their way back to Aswan, and we had the whole of the site almost entirely to ourselves. It was one of the most awe-inspiring moments of my life. Do it. Stay the night in Abu Simbel if you can in order to avoid the crowds. It was amazing. ✨"

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3D/2N Amazon Experience
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Vacation / Holiday Package
Why we love them
They offer something for every kind of traveler and their excellent customer service is available throughout the whole process.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

  • Monkey Island / Fishing Excursion / Dolphin Spotting / Nocturnal Hike
  • Animal Observation Excursion / Piranha Fishing / Nocturnal Caiman Excursion
  • Morning Jungle Hike / Visit With Natives / Belen

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We completed the three day tour with the glacier hike today! It was awesome and the sub vendor, Troll Expeditions, is definitely worthy of staying on the vendor list. 3 Day Blue Ice Cave + Golden Circle + Northern Lights"

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2D/1N Jungle Adventure
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Vacation / Holiday Package
Why we love them
They offer something for every kind of traveler and their excellent customer service is available throughout the whole process.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Cusco

Highlights

  • Monkey Island / Fishing Excursion / Dolphin Spotting / Nocturnal Hike
  • Morning Jungle Hike / Visit With Natives / Belen / Victoria Regia

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We completed the three day tour with the glacier hike today! It was awesome and the sub vendor, Troll Expeditions, is definitely worthy of staying on the vendor list. 3 Day Blue Ice Cave + Golden Circle + Northern Lights"

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11 Day Colombian Heart Comfort Over 50 Shared Tour
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By BnB Colombia Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
61 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Bogota, Medellin

Highlights

  • Encounter the most important historical locations within La Candelaria
  • Enjoy a few hours of strolling through El Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) of Bogotá
  • Salt mine of Zipaquirá
  • The Fossil Museum
  • Visit the Archaeological and Paleontological Museum
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, Photography

What travelers are saying

"My husband and I have just returned from our 3-week honeymoon in Colombia organised by Bruce and Paula and the wider team at BnB Columbia. It was truly the best holiday/ travel of our lives. We loved it so much that we consider moving there once we learn more Spanish! We had a magical experience thanks to BnB Columbia, who have organised a terrific itinerary for us and provided full support from start to finish. Paula was our main point of contact/ organiser and she was a TOP STAR!!! She was the most  kind, helpful, professional and flexible person , from the start of our initial discussions until the very end. She has always been very switched on/ hands-on, listened to us and to our ideas, gave us open and direct advice (regarding flights, accommodation, restaurants, activities- literally everything).  She even saved me when I got food poisoning from a sandwich and got medicine delivered to me super quickly. She is definitely someone you can trust and I would highly recommend her (and the whole agency) to organise your trip. We are incredibly happy to have gone to Colombia through BnB agency. They organised a proper personalised itinerary for us to match our interests. Without BnB Colombia, we wouldn't have been able to do some of the fun/ different type of activities which they were able to organise using their large network of tour guides. They can really offer any activity from A to Z.  Their tour guides were also top-notch. Especially Alejandro in Medellin. The best tour guide we have ever experienced. Some of the activities we did included a salsa class, a boat party with Colombian dance performance, as well as an indigenous village visit. All of these activities were top quality delivered with top service. We also thought that BnB Colombia offered a very good value for your money compared to some UK agencies which (in my personal view) were a bit of rip off for what they offered. If you are thinking of going through an agency, dont go with a UK agency, definitely go with BnB Colombia. BnB Colombia also made us feel I like a family. We felt like they really cared about us and that we had the best time ever. They were so engaged with us, so supportive. We felt safe at all times, no safety issues at all. They organised the transport everywhere which was always on time (this made me feel bad actually as we were always running late which was embarrassing). The drivers were super patient with us. Paula always texted us the night before about the plan for next day. We didn't have to worry about ANYTHING. Honestly, the only shortcoming of this agency is that I am not sure they cover other countries, otherwise we would 100% book with them again! Michaela & Jonathan"

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Health Safety

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8 Day Colombian Express - High End Over 50 Shared Tour
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By BnB Colombia Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
61 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin

Highlights

  • Monserrate
  • Candelaria + Gold Museum
  • Comuna 13 + Fruit tasting
  • Helicopter flight above Guatape
  • Island Hopping on Your Private Boat through Rosario Islands

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Photography

What travelers are saying

"My husband and I have just returned from our 3-week honeymoon in Colombia organised by Bruce and Paula and the wider team at BnB Columbia. It was truly the best holiday/ travel of our lives. We loved it so much that we consider moving there once we learn more Spanish! We had a magical experience thanks to BnB Columbia, who have organised a terrific itinerary for us and provided full support from start to finish. Paula was our main point of contact/ organiser and she was a TOP STAR!!! She was the most  kind, helpful, professional and flexible person , from the start of our initial discussions until the very end. She has always been very switched on/ hands-on, listened to us and to our ideas, gave us open and direct advice (regarding flights, accommodation, restaurants, activities- literally everything).  She even saved me when I got food poisoning from a sandwich and got medicine delivered to me super quickly. She is definitely someone you can trust and I would highly recommend her (and the whole agency) to organise your trip. We are incredibly happy to have gone to Colombia through BnB agency. They organised a proper personalised itinerary for us to match our interests. Without BnB Colombia, we wouldn't have been able to do some of the fun/ different type of activities which they were able to organise using their large network of tour guides. They can really offer any activity from A to Z.  Their tour guides were also top-notch. Especially Alejandro in Medellin. The best tour guide we have ever experienced. Some of the activities we did included a salsa class, a boat party with Colombian dance performance, as well as an indigenous village visit. All of these activities were top quality delivered with top service. We also thought that BnB Colombia offered a very good value for your money compared to some UK agencies which (in my personal view) were a bit of rip off for what they offered. If you are thinking of going through an agency, dont go with a UK agency, definitely go with BnB Colombia. BnB Colombia also made us feel I like a family. We felt like they really cared about us and that we had the best time ever. They were so engaged with us, so supportive. We felt safe at all times, no safety issues at all. They organised the transport everywhere which was always on time (this made me feel bad actually as we were always running late which was embarrassing). The drivers were super patient with us. Paula always texted us the night before about the plan for next day. We didn't have to worry about ANYTHING. Honestly, the only shortcoming of this agency is that I am not sure they cover other countries, otherwise we would 100% book with them again! Michaela & Jonathan"

Trip dates & details
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Health Safety

Generous cancellation

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10 Day History of Colombia Comfort Over 50 Shared Tour
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By BnB Colombia Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
61 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Black Lagoon, Caño Sabana, Cerro Azul, El Museo del Oro , La Candelaria, Laguna Damas de Nare, Pinturas Rupestres Nuevo Tolima, Puerta de Orión, San Agustín Archaeological Park, Tatacoa Desert, The Bogotá Gold Museum

Highlights

  • Monserrate, La Candelaria and The Bogotá Gold Museum
  • Unique Landscapes and Culture in Cerro Azul
  • Gate of Orion and The Red River or The Black Lagoon
  • The Pink Dolphins of the Nare Lagoon
  • Amazing Tatacoa Desert by Day & Spectacular Starry Sky at Night
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning, High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"My husband and I have just returned from our 3-week honeymoon in Colombia organised by Bruce and Paula and the wider team at BnB Columbia. It was truly the best holiday/ travel of our lives. We loved it so much that we consider moving there once we learn more Spanish! We had a magical experience thanks to BnB Columbia, who have organised a terrific itinerary for us and provided full support from start to finish. Paula was our main point of contact/ organiser and she was a TOP STAR!!! She was the most  kind, helpful, professional and flexible person , from the start of our initial discussions until the very end. She has always been very switched on/ hands-on, listened to us and to our ideas, gave us open and direct advice (regarding flights, accommodation, restaurants, activities- literally everything).  She even saved me when I got food poisoning from a sandwich and got medicine delivered to me super quickly. She is definitely someone you can trust and I would highly recommend her (and the whole agency) to organise your trip. We are incredibly happy to have gone to Colombia through BnB agency. They organised a proper personalised itinerary for us to match our interests. Without BnB Colombia, we wouldn't have been able to do some of the fun/ different type of activities which they were able to organise using their large network of tour guides. They can really offer any activity from A to Z.  Their tour guides were also top-notch. Especially Alejandro in Medellin. The best tour guide we have ever experienced. Some of the activities we did included a salsa class, a boat party with Colombian dance performance, as well as an indigenous village visit. All of these activities were top quality delivered with top service. We also thought that BnB Colombia offered a very good value for your money compared to some UK agencies which (in my personal view) were a bit of rip off for what they offered. If you are thinking of going through an agency, dont go with a UK agency, definitely go with BnB Colombia. BnB Colombia also made us feel I like a family. We felt like they really cared about us and that we had the best time ever. They were so engaged with us, so supportive. We felt safe at all times, no safety issues at all. They organised the transport everywhere which was always on time (this made me feel bad actually as we were always running late which was embarrassing). The drivers were super patient with us. Paula always texted us the night before about the plan for next day. We didn't have to worry about ANYTHING. Honestly, the only shortcoming of this agency is that I am not sure they cover other countries, otherwise we would 100% book with them again! Michaela & Jonathan"

Trip dates & details
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Health Safety

Generous cancellation

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14 Day Culture Nature and Cartagena High End Over 50 Shared Tour
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By BnB Colombia Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
61 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin

Highlights

  • Colombia Amazon
  • Helicopter flight Guatape
  • Island Hopping in private boat rosario islands

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Photography

What travelers are saying

"My husband and I have just returned from our 3-week honeymoon in Colombia organised by Bruce and Paula and the wider team at BnB Columbia. It was truly the best holiday/ travel of our lives. We loved it so much that we consider moving there once we learn more Spanish! We had a magical experience thanks to BnB Columbia, who have organised a terrific itinerary for us and provided full support from start to finish. Paula was our main point of contact/ organiser and she was a TOP STAR!!! She was the most  kind, helpful, professional and flexible person , from the start of our initial discussions until the very end. She has always been very switched on/ hands-on, listened to us and to our ideas, gave us open and direct advice (regarding flights, accommodation, restaurants, activities- literally everything).  She even saved me when I got food poisoning from a sandwich and got medicine delivered to me super quickly. She is definitely someone you can trust and I would highly recommend her (and the whole agency) to organise your trip. We are incredibly happy to have gone to Colombia through BnB agency. They organised a proper personalised itinerary for us to match our interests. Without BnB Colombia, we wouldn't have been able to do some of the fun/ different type of activities which they were able to organise using their large network of tour guides. They can really offer any activity from A to Z.  Their tour guides were also top-notch. Especially Alejandro in Medellin. The best tour guide we have ever experienced. Some of the activities we did included a salsa class, a boat party with Colombian dance performance, as well as an indigenous village visit. All of these activities were top quality delivered with top service. We also thought that BnB Colombia offered a very good value for your money compared to some UK agencies which (in my personal view) were a bit of rip off for what they offered. If you are thinking of going through an agency, dont go with a UK agency, definitely go with BnB Colombia. BnB Colombia also made us feel I like a family. We felt like they really cared about us and that we had the best time ever. They were so engaged with us, so supportive. We felt safe at all times, no safety issues at all. They organised the transport everywhere which was always on time (this made me feel bad actually as we were always running late which was embarrassing). The drivers were super patient with us. Paula always texted us the night before about the plan for next day. We didn't have to worry about ANYTHING. Honestly, the only shortcoming of this agency is that I am not sure they cover other countries, otherwise we would 100% book with them again! Michaela & Jonathan"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety

Generous cancellation

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Outdoors 9 Days Galapagos Island Hopping Tour
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5/5 Excellent
42 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Galapagos Islands, Isabela Island, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

  • Start and end in Quito! With the adventure tour GuideGalapagos Outdoors 9 Days Tour, you have a 9 day tour package taking you through Quito, Ecuador and 5 other destinations in Ecuador. GuideGalapagos Outdoors 9 Days Tour is a small group tour that includes accommodation in a hotel as well as flights, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

Themes

High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Trekking & Expeditions, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Phenomenal! Karen was awesome. We made a potato soup with an avocado rose set on cheese in the middle of the soup. Then we made a sword fish in a cream sauce and finished with a chocolate fondue dish with a variety of passion fruit and other local fruits. It was the best cooking class I have ever taken. Thanks Karen!"

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Internal airfare and ground transport
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South America Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
4,567  Reviews
See all South America tour reviews
Excellent
2,244
Great
554
Average
55
Disappointing
16
Terrible
8
A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Qué paja el Perú !

Before I went on this holiday, anyone I talked to about Peru seemed to equate it principally with Machu Picchu and Inka trails. Frankly, as beautiful and wondrous...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Awesome Peru

Very long bus rides but to great places. Beautiful sunny day at Machu Picchu. Fernando - very enthusiastic, full of detailed knowledge, always keen to do the best...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Brilliant Adventure

What a brilliant time we had on our recent visit to Peru. From the moment we met our guide Sebastian at Lima airport the fun started. The itinerary was full on but...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

An amazing trip of a life-time!

This was my first experience of Exodus and I was very impressed. All of the communication prior to travelling was excellent and this continued with my arrival in ...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Perutastic

A great and very enjoyable trip with a very good guide / tour leader (Daniel). Such varied culture, food and scenery too. I felt like I learned and saw a lot. My ...

Write a Review

South America Tour Selection Trips

  • Consider South America tours that take in more than one major site: combining trips to the Galapagos Islands with Machu Picchu, or an Amazon River Cruise with Rio de Janeiro.
  • For touring the Amazon, look for travel providers that employ indigenous people among the guides – they’ll know the rainforests, local customs and landscape like no one else.
  • For trips to Machu Picchu, keep in mind that there are tours for all levels of exertion and roughing it, ranging from short guided lodge-based hiking to luxury train trips to multi-day camping trips.
  • Bear in mind that if you plan to hike the Inca Trail, a tour is required, and only 500 individuals (including porters and guides) are permitted on the trail per day
  •  Plan well in advance if you’d like to see Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail. If you want to see Machu Picchu, but don’t feel like the Inca Trail’s for you, many South America tours still include the famous site. Many visit via the PeruRail route from Cusco.
  • If you like natural diversity, consider a tour to Ecuador – a small country that packs a punch especially considering its size! The Andes, Amazon, the Pacific, colonial cities, and the Galapagos all can be experienced in Ecuador.
  • Some Galapagos tours travel by small ship around the islands, while others are mainly land-based; boat trips will visit more islands

Additional details

South America has some of the most diverse landscapes and wildlife in the entire world. Laying claim to both the Galapagos and the Amazon, tours in South America often have a heavy focus on nature hikes, conservation, local living, and wildlife photography.

The diverse cultures of South America’s countries and regions are a highlight of many guided tours to South America. You’ll enjoy regional cuisine, perhaps even stay with a local family for a few nights. Learn to tango in Argentina, experience the unique floating villages on Lake Titicaca in Peru, and visit coffee plantations in Colombia.

South America tours often have a heavy focus on eco and sustainable travel. Costa Rica is world renowned for its eco lodges. Many tours highlight the many ways tourism can help with conservation rather than hinder the survival of South America’s stunning natural beauty.

South America also attracts history and archaeology buffs looking for tours that visit the many fascinating ancient settlements. Home to countless ruins, including of course the enigmatic Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, travelers have been flocking to South America for centuries seeking to experience these amazing historical sites for themselves.

There are many ways to plan a tour to Machu Picchu, including hiking the Inca Trail. Many travelers may not be aware, however, that if you are planning to walk this ancient byway, you do need to take a tour. Private Inca Trail tours are available, and a popular option, but you cannot simply hike on your own.

Only 500 people are allowed on the Inca Trail every day - this rule has been implemented by the local government in effort to preserve the trail and protect the area. The 500 includes porters and guides, so that leaves room for roughly around 300 travelers.

Off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are where legendary Charles Darwin did a majority of his research leading to the groundbreaking Origin of Species and scientific theories of Natural Selection. When you visit, you’ll get to see and get up close to the many species that led him to his conclusions about evolution including Galapagos Finches, Giant Tortoise, and Marine Iguanas.

Small ship cruises to the Galapagos are becoming increasingly popular. Because the Galapagos can be an entire trip in theselves, consider if you want to invest in a longer trip - one that also includes Machu Picchu or more of Ecuador. 

Countries in South America

Argentina - Modeled after Paris and Madrid, the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires, is the most visited city in South America. Tour Buenos Aires or Tour some of Argentina’s 30 national parks 

Bolivia - Captivating in both history and geography, Bolivia was once the center of the ancient Tiwanaku culture and later part of the Incan empire. Geographically, the country has active volcanoes and the stunning Uyuni salt flats.

Tours to Bolivia

Brazil - Contains most of the Amazon river basin, the world’s largest river system and the most extensive virgin rainforest. Add Rio de Janeiro, the iconic symbol of Brazil to your itinerary, and you’ll be on an amazing tour.

Tours to Rio and the Amazon

Colombia - More tourists are visiting Colombia, a country of cultural and geographical contrasts. Culturally, Colombia’s Spanish heritage is still very much in tact, while several indigenous groups still practice their traditional ways. Is Colombia safe to travel.

Tours to Colombia

Chile - The Andes mountain range dominates this 2,700 mile long country whose southern tip is subantarctic because of its location only 400 miles from Antarctica. At its northern end you’ll be in a coastal desert.

Tours to Chile

Ecuador - A rich heritage comes from the Incas - much of what is now Ecuador was a part of the Incan empire. Ecuador is also one of the most environmentally diverse countries in the world from rainforests to the Galapagos archipelago.

Tours to the Galapagos 

Guyana - The only English-speaking country in South America, Guyana was one a Dutch and British colony. Only a few thousand visitors travel to Guyana each year due to crime and higher levels of poverty; nonetheless, some call it authentic, a place for “raw adventure” and the government is aiming to lead in sustainable tourism. Is Guyana safe to travel. Tours to Guyana.

Paraguay - Although it is one of the least visited countries in South America, some say Paraguay is a country of hidden treasures. It is a more homogenous society in South America with people of European and indigenous Guarini ancestry. In fact, Guarini is the official - and proudly spoken - language. 

Peru - Its arid coastal regions to the west and the Amazon basin to the east with the rugged Andes in between has brought such incredible diversity in the ways of life, climate and economy that Peru is a top destination in South America. Another reason for the large number of tourists is what the rich and highly organized Incan civilization that ruled this region for centuries has left behind.

Tours to Peru.

Tours to Machu Picchu.

Suriname - Called South America’s hidden treasure by The New York Times, just 580,000 people inhabit Suriname. It is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world and as a former Dutch colony, Dutch is its official language. Tours to Suriname

Uruguay - Overshadowed by its huge neighbors, Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay has its own unique sites and attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage historic quarter of the Colonia del Sacramento, the eclectic capital of Montevideo and beach resorts - all untouched by mass tourism. Tours to Uruguay 

Venezuela - The largest lake in South America, Lake Maracaibo, and the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls, are both in Venezuela. Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of State does not recommend travel to the country for a number of reasons. Is Venezuela safe to travel

Languages Spoken in South America

Spanish is the dominant language spoken in South American countries except in Brazil where Portugese is the official language and in Suriname where they speak Dutch (Suriname was once a Dutch colony). Many speak English as a second language and the most common indigenous language is Quecha, the language spoken by the Inca.

When traveling with a tour, your guide will be bilingual or multilingual. Nonetheless, you’ll most likely have the opportunity to meet locals who don’t know English. Speaking their language - even just doing your best with what you know - will endear you to your hosts. It can also be a more enriching experience for you.

But regardless of your language ability, don’t fear, the South American people are incredibly friendly and helpful. It’s not uncommon for them to find someone who does speak English if they themselves do not.

Packing for South America

One of the many benefits when traveling on an organized tour is that they will provide you with a packing list that will depend on your destination, when you will be traveling and, or the activities you’ll be doing. A packing list for a multi-day trek on the Inca Trail is much different from one for a visit to the Galapagos Islands where you may wish to bring your own snorkel and mask!

Safety Tips for Traveling to South America

The US Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs is an excellent resource for travel advisories, passports as well as country specific information and what to do in case of emergency while abroad. You can also register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which is encouraged by the Bureau of Consular Affairs.

Your enrollment helps them contact you in the case of an emergency at home (family, civil unrest, natural disaster, etc.). You will also receive alerts about safety conditions in the destination you are traveling to and should you need to be found, authorities will contact this department.  

Another benefit of booking with a tour company is that they, too, can provide an extra level of safety as well as guidance. Regardless, there are some basic safety tips you should be aware of before and during travel, many of which are helpful no matter where you travel.

1. Check with the US Department of State before you go to check the travel advisory level, of which there are 4. They list countries, regions within countries, even specific big city bus routes. They advise exercising normal precautions, increased caution, whether you should reconsider travel or not travel there at all.

2. Many countries in South America are still developing; as such their tourism infrastructure is in varying states of development/expansion. In remote areas there may be inadequate facilities or none at all. This could mean more exposure to the potential for crime. 

3. Do not become a target for thieves by your behavior, dress, being unaware or displaying signs of wealth. 

  • Walk with purpose. For example, know where you are going and leave valuables at home or in the hotel safe
  • Take only the money you need for the day with you. Consider a wearable that can be concealed for your money and passport.
  • Use your camera and put it away in a bag that doesn’t scream “camera!” 
  • Don’t set items of value on the table while in restaurants where they can be easily swiped. Keep your bag/purse strap looped around your arm or if your bag/camera is placed on the floor at your feet, around your leg. 
  • Be especially vigilant in heavily touristed areas like the beaches of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. These are higher crime areas, particularly because of poverty. 
  • Major events/any crowded area is a prime spot for thieves 
  • Dress like the locals as much as possible to blend in rather than stand out 

4. Be cautious when using ATMs. Use those that are in well lit areas and be on the look-out for anyone who may be watching

5. Avoided unmarked vehicles that claim to be taxis, use buses from reputable companies

6. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Unmarked or otherwise suspicious motorcycles are often used by thieves to come up from behind, snatch a purse and quickly disappear into traffic. Pickpocketers will often work in pairs or groups to distract their victim then steal. 

7. Learn and practice some basic words for assistance in Spanish and if traveling to Brazil, Portuguese. You may not have time to consult your translator. 

8. Take your own first aid kit. If you travel with medications, get a note from your doctor explaining the medication(s) and dose(s). If you have a medical condition, consider carrying a note on your person that explains what to do if you need help. 

9. Let people know your itinerary/tour company and let them know of any changes in your itinerary

10. The CDC’s Traveler’s Health page will advise you of the vaccinations needed by country

11. Stick with bottled water and be wary of drinking fruit juices with or without ice and other beverages with ice 

South America on a Budget

Most likely you already have an idea of how much you want to spend. Next, you’ll want to consider that travel costs will vary by country. Venezuela is the least expensive country, although do keep in mind that as of their latest advisory on April, 9, 2019, the U.S. Department of State does not recommend traveling to Venezuela.

Brazil, Chile and Argentina are at the more expensive end of the spectrum while Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru fall on the less expensive end. Colombia falls in between. Note that the State Department issued a Level 2 advisory not only for Colombia but also Guyana and Uruguay: “exercise increased caution.” 

South America is becoming both more accessible and affordable as a greater number of tourists are heading there instead of the more traditional spots like Asia, Europe and Mexico. There are several drivers of this trend. As of June, 2019, for example, the Brazilian government no longer requires U.S. citizens traveling to Brazil for tourism among other activities to get a Visa, which was a cumbersome process.

Other countries, too, are incentivizing tourists as they recognize the value of their unique attractions as well as the boost tourists give to their economy. Local economic factors also play a role in cost of travel; for example, Argentina’s current (2019) instability makes it a good buy. Last, more tourists means more flights. This, in turn, increases competition among airline carriers. More competition also means cheaper flights. 

Multi-day tour companies have responded to this trend which gives you more choices than ever when it comes to booking a tour to South America. Stride makes it easy to choose tours based on your budget. Filter your results by lodging level: luxury, premium, value, basic or camping.

You can also filter your results by a minimum and maximum total spend for your tour. Don’t forget to include the cost of flying to your destination and also make sure there are no additional costs you might incur on your tour; for example, optional activities or transportation.

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