South America
About South America
Explore South America and it’s crown of jewels. Discover Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Argentina, Brazil, Columbia, Uruguay and Venezuela. There are a multitude of options to select from. Let us showcase an enviable collection of luxury tours exploring the Amazon and the Galapagos Islands. Experience the mysterious Paracas and Nazca Lines tour. Enjoy Lake Titicaca and Suasi Islands, an authentic Jaguar Experience, a Mendoza Wine tour and so much more.
Most of the population lives near the continent’s western or eastern coasts while the interior and the far south are sparsely populated. The geography of western South America is dominated by the Andes mountains; in contrast, the eastern part contains both highland regions and large lowlands where rivers such as the Amazon, Orinoco, and Paraná flow. Most of the continent lies in the tropics.
The continent’s cultural and ethnic outlook has its origin with the interaction of indigenous peoples with European conquerors and immigrants and, more locally, with African slaves. Given a long history of colonialism, the overwhelming majority of South Americans speak Portuguese or Spanish, and societies and states reflect Western traditions.
Best time to travel
The best time to visit South America is between September and November. Summer in South America is November – February and the winter season is June – August. There’s also a rainy season in South America between January and March.
Please refer to our travel guides below.
Helpful hints
To make the most of your journey to South America, why not combine an unforgettable luxury cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula.
Or explore amazing Incan sites, including Machu Picchu, and iconic cities like Buenos Aires before boarding expedition ships for once-in-a-lifetime cruises to the Peruvian Amazon.
For the adventurous, head to Ecuador’s cloud forests and marvel at the distinctive flora and fauna found in these regions. Then cruise the Galapagos Islands for your chance to get up close to incredible wildlife.
Visa and passports
Depending on your nationality, you’ll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date. Some countries also require passports to have 6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.
Please refer to our travel guides below.
Why us?
Southside World Travel and our partners are experienced and knowledgeable specialists who will ensure your time delivers all you are looking for and more. With the largest range of multi-country tours available, let us craft an intricate, tailor made itinerary for you. With enormous on-ground experience and significant local presence, you can expect the very best travel experience.
Contact us and let Southside World Travel create the best travel experience for you.
Travel Guides
Argentina
Argentina is situated between the Andes in the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east offering enormous diversity with natural wonders including: Iguazu Falls, the majestic glaciers in Patagonia, the lunar landscapes of Salta, the vineyards of Mendoza and the blue lakes and snow-capped mountains of the lakes district. Learn to dance the Tango, trek through the Patagonia steppes, or stay on an estancia and live the life of a gaucho on horseback.
Climate
Although the most populated areas are generally temperate, Argentina has an exceptional amount of climate diversity, ranging from subtropical in the north to polar in the far south. The average annual precipitation ranges from 150 millimetres in the driest parts of Patagonia to over 2,000 millimetres in the westernmost parts of Patagonia and the northeastern parts of the country. Mean annual temperatures range from 5 °C in the far south to 25 °C in the north.
Major wind currents include the cool Pampero Winds blowing on the flat plains of Patagonia and the Pampas; following the cold front, warm currents blow from the north in middle and late winter, creating mild conditions. The Sudestada usually moderates cold temperatures but brings very heavy rains, rough seas and coastal flooding. It is most common in late autumn and winter along the central coast and in the Río de la Plata estuary. The Zonda, a hot dry wind, affects Cuyo and the central Pampas. Squeezed of all moisture during the 6,000 m descent from the Andes, Zonda winds can blow for hours with gusts up to 120 km/h, fueling wildfires and causing damage; between June and November, when the Zonda blows, snowstorms and blizzard (viento blanco) conditions usually affect higher elevations.
Best time to travel: Oct – Mar (next best: Apr – Sep)
Visa required: No
Bolivia
Bolivia is an expansive, landlocked plateau of barren plains, lush jungle and fertile highland valleys. From the high Andes to the Amazon Basin, with a fascinating history and captivating scenery, Bolivia will be sure to excite.
The dramatic geography offers many adventure opportunities: Take a boat trip on Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, explore the bustling Witches Market in La Pazz, witness a sunrise over the surreal landscape of Salar de Uyuni, stroll through the enchanting colonial town of Sucre and UNESCO World Heritage City of Potosi or track wildlife in the remote Amazon Basin. Bolivia has the largest indigenous population of any country in South America, the majority of whom still maintain their traditional culture and beliefs, making this one of the most fascinating countries to visit.
Climate
The climate of Bolivia varies drastically from one eco-region to the other, from the tropics in the eastern llanos to a polar climate in the western Andes. The summers are warm, humid in the east and dry in the west, with rains that often modify temperatures, humidity, winds, atmospheric pressure and evaporation, yielding very different climates in different areas. When the climatological phenomenon known as El Niño takes place, it causes great alterations in the weather. Winters are very cold in the west, and it snows in the mountain ranges, while in the western regions, windy days are more common. The autumn is dry in the non-tropical regions.
Best time to travel: May – Oct (next best: Nov – Apr)
Visa required: No
Brazil
Brazil is a land of natural beauty with the white sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast, pristine Amazonian rain forests, the wildlife rich Pantanal and the mighty thunderous Iguassu Falls, as well as the colourful colonial towns of Paraty and Sao Luis, picturesque Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. Brazil is a rich mosaic of people and cultures and home to the famous Rio Carnival, the world’s greatest party!
Climate
The climate of Brazil comprises a wide range of weather conditions across a large area and varied topography, but most of the country is tropical. An equatorial climate characterizes much of northern Brazil. There is no real dry season, but there are some variations in the period of the year when most rain falls. Temperatures average 25 °C with more significant temperature variation between night and day than between seasons.
Over central Brazil rainfall is more seasonal, characteristic of a savanna climate. This region is as extensive as the Amazon basin but has a very different climate as it lies farther south at a higher altitude. In the interior northeast, seasonal rainfall is even more extreme. The semiarid climatic region generally receives less than 800 millimetres of rain, most of which generally falls in a period of three to five months of the year and occasionally less than this, creating long periods of drought.
South of Bahia, near the coasts, and more southerly most of the state of São Paulo, the distribution of rainfall changes, with rain falling throughout the year. The south enjoys subtropical conditions, with cool winters and average annual temperatures not exceeding 18 °C. Winter frosts and snowfall are not rare in the highest areas.
Best time to travel: Oct – Mar (next best: Apr – Sep)
Visa required: Yes
Chile
Chile is a country of startling contrasts and extreme beauty. Stretching long and thin, extending between the high Andes and Pacific Ocean, Chile covers a vastly diverse array of terrain. It is home to some of the world’s most spectacular scenery and offers a unique combination of beautiful wine regions, diverse cultures, stunning landscapes and adventure.
Experience the vibrant capital of Chile, Santiago, the port town and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Valparaiso, rich wine regions of the central valley, spectacular lunar landscapes of the Atacama Desert, the breathtaking Lakes District, the mysterious Moai Statues on Easter Island and the huge granite spires and jade coloured lakes of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. Chile truey offers something to captivate the imagination.
Climate
The diverse climate of Chile ranges from the world’s driest desert in the north – the Atacama Desert – through a Mediterranean climate in the center, humid subtropical in Easter Island, to an oceanic climate, including alpine tundra and glaciers in the east and south. There are four seasons in most of the country: summer (Dec to Feb), autumn (Mar to May), winter (Jun to Aug), and spring (Sep to Nov).
Best time to travel: Nov – Mar (next best: Apr – Sep)
Visa required: Yes
Ecuador & Galapagos
Ecuador
Ecuador is the second smallest country in South America and home to a list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the colonial city of Quito, historical center of Cuenca and the jewel in the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands. Astonishing wildlife, cone shaped volcanoes, picturesque colonial towns, vibrant markets and the rich biodiversity of the Amazon Basin and Highland Cloud Forests are just the start of what Ecuador has to offer.
The cultural mix of Spanish culture and pre-Hispanic indigenous influences are best seen in the architecture and market places such as Quito, Cuenca and Otavalo. The Galapagos Islands are nature’s wonderland where you can see giant tortoises and witness the exotic blue footed boobie or swim with playful seals. Taking a cruise in the archipelago is the best way to explore the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands lie in the Pacific Ocean 1000 km from the Ecuador mainland. The 19 islands and surrounding marine reserve have been called a living museum and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. Cruising is the best way to become acquainted with the islands, and all the cruises offer a variety of activities including kayaking, snorkelling, diving, swimming and excursions led by naturalist guides.
The islands are a melting pot for wildlife enthusiasts and there are many opportunities to walk amongst sea lions, land iguanas, giant tortoises, blue footed boobies, frigate birds and penguins.
Climate
The weather from January to June is typically warmer but with some rain. July to December is cooler and drier.
Best time to travel: Nov – Apr / Jul – Aug (next best: Sep & Oct)
To travel to the Galapagos Islands, flights operate from Quito and Guayaquil.
Visa required: No
Peru
Peru is legendary among world travellers wanting to see fascinating cultures and well preserved relics from ancient civilisations. Stunningly endowed in history and beauty, boasting a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Peru is one of the most enchanting countries in South America.
Explore the enigmatic lost city of the Incas, ‘Machu Picchu’, perched high in the Andes mountains, hike the classic Inca Trail, wonder the cobbled streets of Cusco, an enchanting city of colourful markets, great museums and architecture from the colonial and Incan eras. Take a train across the altiplana landscapes to the shores of Lake Titicaca, discover the mysterious Nazca Lines and hike the deep valleys at Colca Canyon. Indulge in a culinary adventure in Lima, the hottest gastronomic city in Peru, and visit the pristine Amazon rainforest where you can choose from remote jungle lodges to cruising on small luxurious expedition vessels. Vibrant cultures abide within a country bursting with a variety of memorable travel experiences.
Climate
Peru is bordered in the north by Ecuador and Colombia, in the east by Brazil, in the southeast by Bolivia, in the south by Chile, and in the west by the Pacific Ocean. Peru is an extremely biodiverse country with habitats ranging from the arid plains of the Pacific coastal region in the west to the peaks of the Andes mountains vertically extending from the north to the southeast of the country to the tropical Amazon Basin rainforest in the east with the Amazon river.
The combination of tropical latitude, mountain ranges, topography variations, and two ocean currents (Humboldt and El Niño) gives Peru a large diversity of climates. The coastal region has moderate temperatures, low precipitations, and high humidity, except for its warmer, wetter northern reaches. In the mountain region, rain is frequent in summer, and temperature and humidity diminish with altitude up to the frozen peaks of the Andes. The Peruvian Amazon is characterized by heavy rainfall and high temperatures, except for its southernmost part, which has cold winters and seasonal rainfall.
Best time to travel: Mar – Nov (next best: Dec – Mar)
Wildlife
Because of its varied geography and climate, Peru has a high biodiversity with 21,462 species of plants and animals reported as of 2003. Peru has over 1,800 species of birds (120 endemic), and 500 species of mammals and over 300 species of reptiles. The hundreds of mammals include rare species like the puma, jaguar and spectacled bear. The Pacific holds large quantities of sea bass, flounder, anchovies, tuna, crustaceans, and shellfish, and is home to many sharks, sperm whales, and whales.
The cloud-forest slopes of the Andes sustain moss, orchids, and bromeliads, and the Amazon rainforest is known for its variety of trees and canopy plants.
Amazon Cruises Peru
Sail the waters of the mighty Peruvian Amazon on a luxurious cruise and journey into areas only visited by a privileged few. Knowledgeable and experience naturalists will take you into the Peruvian rain forest and the Pacaya Samira Reserve to spot pink dolphins, sloths, howler monkeys as well as indigenous people living in the local villages.
Enjoy the comforts on board and exclusive menus created by one of Peru’s top ten chefs, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Cruising the Amazon River’s largest tributies through the remote Pacaya-Samiria Reserve is definitely a highlight of Peru. Daily activities include jungle explorations by skiffs and on foot. Explore the pristine wilderness areas of the Amazon, with unique bird and wildlife sightings as well as visits to remote local villages, accompanied by naturalist guides.
Visa required: No
Uruguay
Nestled between Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay travel offers vacationers a range of experiences, from exploring the busy urban centre of Montevideo to partying in Punte de Este and taking in the natural beauty of Uruguay’s rural interior. In the gorgeous town of Colonia del Sacramento (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), you will see cobbled streets and ruined forts. The pretty capital Montevideo has a fine harbour and impressive Art Deco buildings.
Climate
Located entirely within a temperate zone, Uruguay has a climate that is relatively mild and fairly uniform nationwide. Seasonal variations are pronounced, but extremes in temperature are rare. As would be expected with its abundance of water, high humidity and fog are common. The absence of mountains, which act as weather barriers, makes all locations vulnerable to high winds and rapid changes in weather as fronts or storms sweep across the country. Both summer and winter weather may vary from day to day with the passing of storm fronts, where a hot northerly wind may occasionally be followed by a cold wind (pampero) from the Argentine Pampas.
Uruguay has a largely uniform temperature throughout the year, with summers being tempered by winds off the Atlantic; severe cold in winter is unknown.
The heaviest precipitation occurs during the autumn months, although more frequent rainy spells occur in winter.
Best time to travel: Oct – Mar (next best: Apr – Sep)
Visa required: No
Venezuela
Venezuela is a country of striking natural beauty and spectacular sights. Canaima National Park features incredible wildlife and is gateway to the Angel Falls – the highest waterfall in the World. Experience the mountains of La Gran Sabana or Venezuela which offers a choice for the wildlife enthusiast, like the extensive plains of Los Llanos or pristine white sany beaches of the archipelago of Los Roques.
Climate
Venezuela is located on the northern coast of South America, bordered by Colombia on the west, Brazil on the south, Guyana on the east, the Dutch Lesser Antilles to the north and Trinidad and Tobago to the north-east.
Located in the tropics over the Equator, it’s climate varies from humid low-elevation plains, where average annual temperatures range as high as 35 °C, to glaciers and highlands (the páramos) with an average yearly temperature of 8 °C. Annual rainfall varies from 430 mm in the semiarid portions of the northwest to over 1,000 mm in the Orinoco Delta of the far east and the Amazonian Jungle in the south. The precipitation level is lower in the period from November to April.
Best time to travel: Nov – Mar (next best: Apr & Oct)
Visa required: No
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