Explore the wonders of South America

The best time to visit South America is during April to May or September to November, which mark the autumn and spring seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. These months offer comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and generally pleasant conditions across the continent’s many microclimates – from hiking the Inca Trail in Peru to relaxing on Colombia’s beaches or exploring Brazil’s vibrant cities.

Summer (December to February) is popular for coastal escapes but often brings higher humidity, hotter temperatures, and larger crowds. Winter can be cold in the south and at higher altitudes, particularly in Patagonia. Travelling in the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring ensures a more balanced climate and a smoother experience, whatever your itinerary.

Whether you visit one country or several in South America depends on your time, travel style, and priorities. The continent is vast, with destinations spread far apart, so focusing on a single country often allows for deeper cultural immersion, more relaxed pacing, and greater opportunity to enjoy local experiences.

Multi-country itineraries are possible, particularly between neighbouring nations, but they require more travel time and careful planning. Our South America travel specialist can help you decide which destinations fit your interests best – whether that’s a single-country journey or a tailored combination such as Argentina & Chile, Machu Picchu & the Galapagos, or a broader Central & South American tour.

Some of the best destinations for wildlife in South America include Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This is a continent where nature thrives on an epic scale – from the world’s greatest rivers and tropical rainforests to volcanic islands and vast wetlands.

You could walk alongside blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises in the Galápagos, spot toucans and spider monkeys deep in the Amazon, or search for jaguars and capybaras in the Pantanal – the largest tropical wetland on Earth. South America’s wild landscapes offer unforgettable encounters with some of the planet’s most extraordinary creatures.

Family is at the heart of life across South America, and children are warmly welcomed everywhere – from bustling cities to remote villages.

By speaking to our South America specialist, we can design you a family-friendly itinerary, with guides who know how to balance exciting adventures with cultural and educational experiences for all ages. You might explore rainforest trails in search of scarlet macaws, hear ancient legends while visiting the ruins of Machu Picchu, feel the power of Iguazú Falls, or learn traditional crafts from local artisans. South America offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories together.