Delve Deeper: Your Ideal South America Tour Itinerary

Peru: Ancient wonders and living culture

Peru stands as the crown jewel for many South America tours, and for good reason.

• Lima: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Historic Centre showcases beautiful colonial architecture, including the San Francisco Convent with its baroque architecture and underground catacombs. Sample innovative fusion cuisine and explore colourful streets and lively bars in clifftop districts Miraflores and Barranco for ocean views and bohemian charm.
• Lake Titicaca: At a breathtaking 3,812 metres above sea level, this shimmering lake is home to the Uros people, who have lived on floating reed islands for centuries. Visiting these islands and meeting local families offers a rare glimpse into traditions that predate the Incas.
• The Amazon: The Peruvian Amazon is nature on an epic scale. With more fish species than the entire Atlantic Ocean, its biodiversity is staggering. Stay in an eco-lodge and venture deep into the jungle for an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

No journey through South America is complete without experiencing the mystical heart of the Inca Empire, where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes converge.

• Cuzco: The gateway to Machu Picchu layers colonial Spanish architecture over Incan foundations. The main plaza buzzes with energy, surrounded by churches built with stones pillaged from Incan temples. Step into living history, try contemporary Peruvian cuisine and hike Rainbow Mountain for surreal views.
• Machu Picchu: One of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological sites. Let your guide bring the lost city to life, detailing the fascinating history and mysteries as you wander its ancient terraces.
• The Sacred Valley: One of the most beautiful and historically significant parts of Peru. Immerse yourself in cultural heritage, hike ancient Inca paths and take in breathtaking views of the Andes.

Argentina: Cosmopolitan cities and wild frontiers

A land of contrasts, Argentina sweeps you from sophisticated urban culture to untamed wilderness. For food lovers, culture seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, this country offers experiences that stir the soul.

• Buenos Aires: Nicknamed the ‘Paris of South America’, Buenos Aires charms with wide boulevards, passionate tango culture and a rich arts scene. Explore diverse neighbourhoods like trendy Palermo, historic San Telmo and colourful La Boca. Roam countless bookstores, theatres and museums, enjoy sophisticated dining, sip Malbec and embrace the city’s infectious energy.
• Iguazu Falls: Argentina meets Brazil in a spectacular display of natural power, a system of 275 individual cascades stretching nearly three kilometres. Walking the trails on the Argentine side brings you face-to-face with the formidable Devil’s Throat, where water plunges 80 metres into a churning abyss.

Chile: Wine, wilderness and otherworldly deserts 

Chile stretches like a ribbon down South America’s western edge, impossibly long and narrow, with the Andes forming its backbone and the Pacific Ocean lapping at its shores. This unique geography creates a tapestry of landscapes, from sun-drenched vineyards and cosmopolitan cities to lunar-like deserts and glacial fjords. Nestled in the central valley, there’s one spot where you can taste it all.

• Santiago: Framed by snow-capped Andes, this vibrant capital blends modern sophistication with colonial heritage. Nearby wine regions like Maipo, Casablanca and Colchagua produce world-class vintages. Savour incredible food and wine, explore rich culture, arts and vibrant nightlife, and visit South America’s tallest building.

Brazil: Rhythm, rainforest and coastal splendour

With its vibrant blend of culture, nature and sheer energy, Brazil moves to its own beat. Golden beaches stretch for miles, lush rainforests teem with wildlife, and cities pulse with music and colour. For experiences that feel larger than life, there’s one city you won’t want to miss.

• Rio de Janeiro: The iconic Christ the Redeemer spreads his arms over a city squeezed between mountains and sea. Ride the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views, stroll along Copacabana Beach and explore colourful landmarks in Brazil’s holiday capital.

Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands: Nature’s living laboratory

Considered one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations on Earth, Ecuador packs incredible diversity into a compact package. You won’t want to miss your chance to put a foot in each hemisphere or roam among rare creatures in remote island archipelagos.

• Quito: High in the Andes, Quito’s colonial old town is a UNESCO World Heritage gem. Visit the Mitad del Mundo monument to straddle the Equator and browse Otavalo’s vibrant indigenous market for textiles and handicrafts.
• The Galápagos Islands: These volcanic islands are a wildlife wonderland. Sea lions, giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies roam freely. Swim, snorkel and stroll among creatures that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution for an experience like no other.

Planning your journey

With multiple countries, languages, climates and logistics to juggle, planning a trip across a continent as vast and diverse as South America can feel overwhelming. That’s where a packaged tour becomes your ultimate travel hack. Instead of spending weeks researching flights, accommodations and activities, everything is arranged for you, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the experience.

When you book a perfectly packaged touring holiday, you’ll enjoy seamless logistics, handpicked accommodation, expert local guides, small-group camaraderie and peace of mind, not to mention exceptional value for your money. The best part? Freedom to be fully present. Instead of worrying about tomorrow’s transport or accommodation, you simply show up and soak it all in.