South America Tours & Holidays
Start your South America holiday with us
Join our South America tour packages and set off in search of dramatic landscapes, idyllic beaches and extraordinary culture.
Visit Brazil - the largest country on the continent, and home to a variety of wildlife and natural wonders that is almost unparalleled. It also boasts one of the most colourful and lively cities on the planet - Rio de Janeiro. See the iconic, towering Christ the Redeemer statue, ride the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain and perhaps catch a Ginga Tropical Show in the evening to enjoy the vibrant spectacle of Brazil's traditional music and dances.
In Argentina, the powerful Iguazú Falls makes for an emotive outing, with the chance to spot wildlife including big cats and monkeys in the surrounding jungle. The country's cosmopolitan capital, Buenos Aires, delights visitors with its elegant architecture and charming neighbourhoods, including historic San Telmo and colourful La Boca.
Peru offers the chance to visit the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu - a particular highlight of many South America holidays. See the sights of culture-rich Lima, enjoy a tour of Arequipa - the White City - or embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Amazon jungle. If your thirst for adventure and wild nature is still not quenched, a trip to the Galápagos Islands, home to paradisiacal Isla Lobos and eponymous giant tortoise, is sure to do it.
Our featured holidays to South America
Take one of our tours to South America with Newmarket Holidays and fill each day with astonishing new sights, unforgettable wonders and the verve and vibrancy of some of the world’s most colourful nations.
- 14 Excursions Included, 13 Meals Included
- Flights Included - 1 Airport
- 11 Dates - Mar 2024 - Nov 2025
- Flights Included - 1 Airport
- 10 Dates - May 2024 - Nov 2025
- 25 Excursions Included, 28 Meals Included
- Flights Included - 1 Airport
- 10 Dates - Mar 2024 - Nov 2025
- 23 Excursions Included, 19 Meals Included
- Flights Included - 6 Airports
- 13 Dates - May 2024 - Nov 2025
- 26 Meals Included
- Flights Included - 1 Airport
- 10 Dates - May 2024 - Nov 2025
Things to do in South America
From exploring mysterious ancient ruins to relaxing days spent lazing on idyllic white sand beaches, there is a huge variety of things to experience in South America. Be it visiting world-famous landmarks or setting off on an adventure off the beaten path, there is something for everyone. Here are just a few ideas to whet your appetite.
Wildlife watch in the Galápagos
There are few better places on earth for wildlife watching than the volcanic Galápagos Islands. Home to a huge array of animals, many of which, such as the Galápagos penguin and giant tortoise, are endemic to the islands. A visit to this Ecuadorian province also would not be complete without some time spent at one of its pristine beaches – and there are plenty to choose from.
Venture into the Amazon
Another nature-focused highlight of our escorted tours to South America is a visit to the Amazon. Explore Lake Sandoval by canoe, spot all kinds of animals on the Anaconda Walk and visit a local farm to get a taste of the Amazonian life. Head into Peru's rainforest and learn all about how chocolate is made at a cacao plantation.
Explore Buenos Aires
One of South America's prettiest cities, Buenos Aires is a vibrant metropolis filled with elegant architecture, incredible food and a lively nightlife. Visit the Plaza de Mayo’s parliament buildings, explore the tango neighbourhood of San Telmo or snap pictures in the wonderfully colourful La Boca district – Argentina's capital is full of thrills.
Things to see in South America
As one of the most naturally rich continents on the planet, South America is home to an abundance of extraordinary sights. There is everything from cascading waterfalls and towering peaks to rare and exotic creatures – not to mention the spectacular man made wonders. With so many incredible sights to choose from, here are just a few of the highlights of our South America tours.
South America tour highlights
Things to see and places to visit on your escorted tour of South America
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is the kind of city to arrive in with lots of energy. And if you don’t, it will energise you in no time at all.
Rio De Janeiro
While it’s not Brazil's capital, it is certainly one of South America’s most talked about cities. And you will soon see why.
The Galapagos Islands
Experience the Galapagos' numerous islands and varied environments, from rugged volcanoes to paradise beaches to lush nature reserves.
Machu Picchu
Take an unforgettable, mystical journey to Peru’s most visited attraction, the ancient Incan wonder of Machu Picchu.
Lima
Lima, the City of Kings, simply has so much for the curious traveller to explore - from fine dining to ancient architecture.
Food and drink in South America
Diverse and geographically rich, South America is home to some truly great dining. With tropical fruit from the Amazon, seafood from the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean and fish from its many lakes and rivers, as well as the abundance of potatoes and cereals grown in its plains, the continent offers chefs fresh, high-quality ingredients all year round.
South Americans take the art of barbecuing, or asada, very seriously. As well as offering up tantalising cooked meats, especially beef and sausages, a barbecue in South American countries is an important part of social gatherings for families and friends. Asado is particularly popular in Argentina, where it has become an integral part of the nation's cuisine. Other popular traditional dishes in the country include milanesa – a slab of beef breaded and fried – and steak with chimichurri – a flavourful salsa made with garlic, oregano, oil and red pepper flakes. One of the country's most beloved desserts is alfajor, a cookie sandwich covered in chocolate.
If you are visiting Brazil on your holidays in South America, you will find that the traditional cuisine varies from region to region. However, popular dishes such as feijoada – a stew made with black beans and pork – and picanha – a highly appreciated cut of beef. Meat generally features heavily on the menus here, as well as fish, root vegetables and fruits like mango and pineapple. Street food is also popular, with one of the country's particular favourites being coxinha – a chicken and cream cheese croquette that is breaded and fried. The food in Peru is influenced by Incan culture, as well as ingredients such as rice brought by the Spanish. The country's national dish is ceviche, which is made with slices of raw fish seasoned and marinated in lime juice. Another popular delicacy is pollo a la brasa, or grilled chicken. A simple dish consisting of charcoal-grilled chicken served with fries and salad, it has become a mainstay of Peruvian cuisine.
Beyond A travel blog by Newmarket Holidays
Our edit of the most beautiful destinations, travel tips, and inspiration
