Luxury Exploration

If you're seeking high-end experiences with maximum comfort, Argentina and Chile lead the way with world-class lodges, luxury trains, and premium wineries. Brazil and Peru also offer excellent high-end options.

           Active Adventure

For more intense, immersive experiences, Bolivia and Ecuador offer outstanding overland adventures, while Peru provides world-class trekking opportunities through ancient Inca territories.

          Wildlife Encounters

Brazil's Pantanal offers South America's premier wildlife viewing, including reliable jaguar sightings, while Chile provides the continent's best opportunities for puma viewing.

          Cultural Immersion

Peru and Bolivia excel in authentic cultural experiences, with strong indigenous traditions and remarkable archaeological sites. Ecuador also offers rich cultural encounters in stunning mountain settings.

          Marine Adventures

The Galápagos Islands provide unparalleled marine wildlife encounters, while the dramatic coastlines of Chile and Argentina offer spectacular marine mammal viewing.

         Wilderness Exploration

From the Amazon Basin to Patagonia, South America offers vast wildernesses. The continent particularly excels in combinations of different ecosystems within single trips.

            8 to 14 nights

Most visitors deploy 8-14 nights in South America, which allows for exploration of either a single country in depth or a focused combination of two countries. 

For example, this duration works well for:

• Brazil, combining Rio, Iguaçu Falls, and the Pantanal
• Chile and Argentina's key Patagonian highlights
• Peru with Galápagos, combining with beach locations or wine regions can add variety and help manage costs.
  

            15 to 21 nights

Longer trips of 15-21 nights typically allow for more comprehensive exploration of two to three countries. This duration enables combinations like:

• Argentina, Brazil, and Chile explorations
• Peru and Ecuador with extended Galápagos time
• Deeper exploration of Patagonia combined with other regions
• This timeframe also allows for proper exploration of non-wildlife areas such as wine regions, colonial cities, and beach destinations.

            22+ nights:

Extended trips of three weeks or more open up infinite possibilities across the continent. These longer durations are perfect for sabbaticals or retired travelers wanting comprehensive exploration. They enable:

• Combinations of multiple countries
• In-depth wildlife viewing across different ecosystems
• Extended cultural immersion
• Inclusion of remote or lesser-visited regions
  

Trip costs in South America

Premium Experiences ($800-2000 per person per night)
The continent's finest lodges and experiences typically range from $800 to $2000 per person per night. 

This includes premium properties like Tierra Patagonia, Awasi lodges, or luxury Amazon vessels. Prices peak in prime wildlife areas like the Pantanal's jaguar zones and Patagonia's Torres del Paine during high season. 

These prices typically include all activities, premium guiding, and often exclusive access or unique experiences.

Mid-Range Options ($400-800 per person per night)
Excellent experiences are available in the $400-800 range, particularly in Peru, Ecuador, and parts of Brazil. 

This budget typically provides comfortable lodges, quality guiding, and inclusive activities. Properties might be slightly further from prime locations or offer shared rather than private activities, but the wildlife viewing and cultural experiences remain strong.

Price Considerations
Several strategies can help manage costs:

• Combining premium wildlife areas with more affordable cultural or beach destinations
• Traveling in shoulder seasons, particularly in Patagonia and the Galápagos
• Opting for longer stays at individual properties to reduce transfer costs
• Focusing on fewer locations to minimize internal flights
• Including value destinations like Bolivia alongside premium locations

When to visit South America

The continent's size and geographical diversity mean that optimal timing varies significantly by region. Here's how to navigate the seasons:

Apr-Sep: Northern & Central Regions

• Prime time for Peru and Ecuador's Andean regions
• Dry season in Brazil's wildlife areas
• Excellent conditions for Amazon exploration
• Peak season for Galápagos Islands
• Lower rainfall and comfortable temperatures
• High season prices and visitor numbers

Oct-Apr: Southern Regions

• Best conditions for Patagonia (Chile and Argentina)
• Optimal timing for glacier viewing
• Wine regions at their most active
• Peak season for southern marine wildlife
• Higher prices in southern destinations
• Can be very hot in Brazil

Shoulder Seasons (Mar-Apr & Sep-Oct)

• Good for combining northern and southern regions
• Generally lower visitor numbers
• Often better value
• More variable weather conditions
• Can offer unique wildlife opportunities
• Ideal for continent-wide trips

Expert

Our travel experts are uncommonly knowledgeable and experienced

765,000

The number of superb trips we have  so far created

Seamless

Arranging your trip should be almost as much fun as actually going on it

Value

Your trip should cost you no more than if you booked all the components directly

Tailored

Your trip will be perfectly tuned to meet your requirements

What our guests say

“We’ve used many different travel organizers and agents, but one truly stands like a giraffe, head and shoulders above all others.”

Linda Goddard  ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 

“ATR are the experts in their field and I wouldn’t trust anyone else.”

Tara Stewart  ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 

“ATR are honest in their appraisal of individual lodges. You can trust their judgement.”

Graeme Gales  ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

4.9   ★ ★ ★ ★ ★  

Average Google Review Score

1999

The year that we started to build great trips

Cultural & Archaeological

Focused on South America's extraordinary heritage, from spectacular Inca ruins to elegant colonial cities. These trips typically center on Peru's Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, often extending into Bolivia's high altiplano or Ecuador's historic highlands. 

They combine major archaeological sites with authentic living culture, luxury train journeys, and intimate encounters with local communities. 

The best cultural trips balance iconic sites with lesser-known gems, such as Peru's northern kingdoms or Bolivia's remote Jesuit missions. Accommodations range from converted monasteries to luxury hotels in historic districts.

Wildlife Viewing

Primarily anchored by Brazil's Pantanal, offering South America's premier wildlife viewing with virtually guaranteed jaguar sightings, plus giant anteaters, giant otters, and extraordinary birdlife. Often combined with Amazon exploration for rare primates and pink river dolphins, or Chile's Torres del Paine for puma encounters. The Galápagos Islands provide an unparalleled marine wildlife dimension. 

These trips require careful seasonal timing and typically feature specialist guides and intimate lodges. The focus is on quality viewing experiences rather than rushing between locations, with typically 3-4 nights at each wildlife destination.

Mountain & Trek

Ranging from classic Inca Trail treks to remote Patagonian hiking expeditions. These journeys emphasize authentic experiences and often include a mix of camping and mountain lodges. 

Peru offers world-class trekking through ancient Inca territories, while Patagonia provides extraordinary hiking in both Chile and Argentina. Ecuador adds high-altitude volcano climbing, while Bolivia offers remote altiplano adventures. 

These trips can be tailored from moderate to extremely challenging, often combining different activities like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

           Strategic Planning

The continent's vast size means careful planning is crucial. Flight connections and seasonal patterns vary enormously between regions. A well-crafted itinerary balances travel time with experience quality.

           Quality Guiding
 
The best experiences rely heavily on expert guidance. Local knowledge is particularly crucial for wildlife areas like the Pantanal, archaeological sites like Machu Picchu, and remote regions of Patagonia.

           Accommodation Selection

South America offers extraordinary variety in lodging. The best trips carefully match accommodations to locations - from luxury lodges in Torres del Paine to expedition vessels in Galápagos to authentic haciendas in Ecuador.

           Pacing & Balance

Successful trips need careful pacing. Altitude considerations in the Andes, travel distances in Patagonia, and the intensity of wildlife viewing all require thoughtful scheduling.

           Regional Expertise

Each region demands specific knowledge. Understanding when to visit Brazil's Pantanal for jaguars, or the optimal timing for Patagonia's weather patterns, can transform a trip.

          Location Choices 

The most rewarding trips often combine iconic highlights with lesser-known gems. While Machu Picchu and Rio are spectacular, including places like Brazil's Nascentes do Parnaíba or Chile's Carretera Austral can provide extraordinary depth.

Premium Travel

Combining South America's finest lodges, high-end cruises, and exclusive experiences. Particularly strong in Argentina and Chile, featuring renowned wineries, elegant estancias, and sophisticated cities. 

These trips often include private guides, helicopter flights over remote areas, exclusive access to cultural sites, and premium wine experiences. Brazil adds luxury beachfront properties and intimate wildlife lodges, while Peru offers first-class train journeys and historic luxury hotels. 

The focus is on exceptional service, unique experiences, and seamless logistics.

Family Travel

Multi-generational trips carefully balancing education with adventure and comfort with authenticity. 

These journeys often combine wildlife viewing with cultural experiences, popular in Galápagos, Peru, and Brazil. Activities are adapted for different ages and interests, from snorkeling with sea lions to cooking classes in colonial towns. 

Accommodation choices focus on properties offering both family-friendly facilities and authentic character. The pace is carefully managed to avoid overwhelm while maintaining engagement.

Honeymoons

Thoughtfully mixing romance with adventure, these trips feature premium accommodations and intimate experiences while maintaining South America's sense of discovery. 

Popular combinations include Peru's Sacred Valley with Brazilian beaches, or Patagonian luxury lodges with Buenos Aires tango culture. The focus is on private experiences, scenic locations, and properties chosen for their romantic appeal. 

These trips often include special touches like private dining experiences, couples' spa treatments, and exclusive cultural encounters, while maintaining the authentic character that makes South America special.

Chile & Argentina

The classic Patagonia combination, offering complementary perspectives on the southern Andes. Combines well between October and April, with opportunities for both wildlife viewing (pumas) and dramatic landscapes (glaciers). The wine regions, Lake Districts, and vibrant capitals add cultural depth.

Brazil & Argentina

Links South America's wildlife highlight (the Pantanal) with Patagonian scenery and sophisticated cities. Best between July and October when conditions align for both jaguar viewing and comfortable Buenos Aires exploration. Iguaçu Falls serves as a natural connection point.

Peru & Galápagos/Ecuador

Combines the continent's most remarkable cultural heritage with its finest marine wildlife experiences. Requires careful seasonal planning but rewards with extraordinary diversity. Best between April and September when conditions are optimal in both regions.

South America offers around 900 premium properties across its key destinations. While we can include any quality property in your trip, our recommendations typically fall into these distinct categories:

Premium Lodges
The continent's finest properties combine exceptional locations with outstanding service and guiding. These include the Tierra and Awasi lodges in Chile and Argentina, premium Pantanal wildlife lodges, and sophisticated Sacred Valley retreats in Peru. Typically featuring fewer than 20 rooms, these properties offer extraordinary experiences with prices ranging from $800-2000 per night. They excel in both comfort and authenticity, with expert guides and carefully crafted activities.

Character Properties
Some of South America's most memorable accommodations aren't necessarily the most luxurious. Historic haciendas in Ecuador, traditional estancias in Argentina, and intimate rainforest lodges in Brazil offer authentic experiences with comfortable standards. While service may be less polished than premium properties, the cultural immersion and location quality can be superior.

Expedition Vessels
Crucial for exploring the Galápagos Islands, Chilean fjords, and parts of the Amazon. These range from intimate luxury vessels with 8-12 cabins to premium expedition ships. The best combine comfortable accommodation with expert naturalist guides and efficient logistics. Cabin sizes and amenities vary significantly, making careful selection crucial.

Mountain Lodges
Specialized properties catering to hikers and adventure travelers, particularly in Peru and Patagonia. These range from simple but comfortable refugios to premium mountain lodges with unexpected luxury. Location and access to trails typically take priority over amenities, though some newer properties successfully combine both.

Urban Hotels
The continent's cities offer everything from converted colonial mansions to sophisticated modern hotels. The best combine convenient locations with character - whether that's a boutique property in Buenos Aires' Palermo district or a historic hotel in Cusco's ancient center. Many provide crucial comfort between more adventurous segments of your journey.

Choosing Your Properties
We maintain complete honesty when describing accommodation options. Our priority is matching properties to your specific needs and expectations. Key considerations include:

• Location and access to key experiences
• Quality of guiding and included activities
• Service levels and consistency
• Room types and configurations
• Dining options and flexibility
• Transfer times and logistics

The best accommodations in South America