Itching to dance the Samba, spot curly-tailed monkeys swinging through the trees, or marvel at ancient manmade wonders? You can do it all in South America! For a custom tailored family fun time or group vacation unlike any other, it may be time to plan a trip down south to check out one of these top South America vacation destinations. Photo by Elizeu Dias on Unsplash
Here are 4 of Our Favorite South America Vacation Destinations
#1 Top South America Destination: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Photo by Kirilos via Flickr
Rio is the South American city that never sleeps.
From the world-famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches (which have inspired equally famous songs) to the outrageous Carnival festival each year, Rio de Janeiro is perfect for travelers who want to see and be seen on vacation.
Rio de Janeiro, perfect for travelers who want to see and be seen. Click To Tweet
But there’s opportunities for reflection, too, like a spiritual visit to the Christ the Redeemer statue that watches over the city, or a cable car ride — complete with sweeping views of the cityscape — up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain.
With over 6 million inhabitants and some areas known for high crime, we recommend investing in an escorted trip to this sprawling metropolis as part of your South America vacation destinations trip.
#2 Top South America Destination: The Amazon Rainforest
Photo by Neil Palmer (CIAT) via Flickr
There’s simply no place like it on earth: the biodiversity found in the legendary Amazon Rainforest is just astounding.
But you don’t have to be a rough-edged adventurer to experience this part of the world.
Consider exploring the rainforest and surrounding areas on a river cruise down the Amazon River, like on the itinerary offered by Linblad Expeditions.
- Spend your days with special guides who can take you up close to pink river dolphins, brilliantly feathered macaws, and giant water lilies that are bigger than car tires.
- Spend your evenings relaxing on board the ship, enjoying the fine cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients as you watch the river laze by.
- The wild river and jungle plus refinement and artisan touches on board equals the best of both worlds.
#3 Top South America Destination: Machu Picchu, Peru
Photo by Chensiyuan via Wikimedia
It’s a classic South American destination for a reason: the lost city of the Inca spellbinds all its visitors.
And while the steep steps of the 3,000-year-old ruins may be intimidating to some travelers, this is truly a destination that can be enjoyed by all.
We’ve planned trips to Machu Picchu for all kinds of travelers: a mother-daughter team, an active couple in their 70s, a solo adventurer.
If Mach Picchu has always been on your bucket list, we encourage you to turn that travel dream into a reality and plan your South America vacation destination dream trip today!
#4 Top South America Destination: Chile’s Lake District
Want a little European flavor with your South American vacation?
Head to the Lake District in Chile, a breathtaking region whose network of pristine lakes and temperate climate may have you thinking that you’ve landed in the hills of Switzerland or Austria, not our neighbor to the south.
Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, the Lake District is the perfect base for exploring Chile’s top-notch wine country, shopping, and exploding local culinary scene.
- Add in swimming, hiking, and visits to the relaxing hot springs in the region to round out your trip.
- For a pampered touch, consider a luxury itinerary through Ker & Downey, with adventurous outings like fly fishing and kayaking on the glacial lakes balanced with spa treatments that you totally lose yourself in.
Has One of these Top South America Vacation Destinations Sparked Your Interest?
Many of the regions on this continent are less traveled by Americans, so a travel expert with contacts and connections in the area is priceless.
Our team of experienced travel agents can help plan your perfect South American getaway — just get in touch!