Adventure Tours & Trips in South America
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10 best Active South America tour packages
Compiled by

NinaSouth America travel expert at TourRadar
- 6 Days Galápagos Exploration: Nature's Wonderland Adventure
- Galapagos Walking Adventure
- Ecuador Adventure 14 Days Tour
- Full Argentina Adventure – 21 Days
- EPIC 27-DAY ADVENTURE THROUGH CHILE
- Uyuni Salt Flats & Desert Adventure 4D/3N (Atacama to La Paz)
- Uyuni Salt Flats & Desert Adventure 3D/2N (Uyuni to Atacama)
- 5 Days Adventure Trip in Galapagos
- Manu Amazon Adventure 5D/4N
- Iquitos Amazon Jungle Adventure 3D/2N
Los Tuneles' lava formations and Sierra Negra's volcanic landscapes set the stage for wildlife encounters. A 6-mile crater rim trek, penguin snorkeling at Tintoreras Islet, and tree planting in Santa Cruz highlands await. Includes expert guidance and comfortable accommodations for around $1,900.
Duration 6 days Destinations Baltra Island, Puerto Ayora, Isabela Island Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Responsible Travel South America From
- NZ$3,290
Galapagos Walking Adventure
19 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Full of wonderful wildlife encounters and beautiful scenery. It is hard to pick one superlative to describe it.”
David, traveled in June
Galapagos adventures await across four islands. Sierra Negra volcano provides hiking challenges, while Kicker Rock and Cabo Rosa offer premier snorkeling. Local guesthouses serve as base camps on San Cristóbal, Floreana, Isabela, and Santa Cruz.
Duration 14 days Destinations Quito, San Cristóbal Island, Floreana Island, Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island, Bartolomé Island, Baltra Island, South Plaza Island, Guayaquil Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From
- NZ$13,809
South America's challenging terrains range from Cuicocha Lake's 8-mile circuit to Chimborazo's 16,000ft basecamp. Class III rapids on Pastaza River and mountain biking through Baños' Avenue of Waterfalls provide thrilling moments.
Duration 14 days Destinations Quito, Otavalo, Cotacachi, Cotopaxi National Park, Banos, Puyo, Chimborazo Volcano, Alausi, Ingapirca, CuencaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 20+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
- NZ$5,424
Full Argentina Adventure – 21 Days
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“All the day tours were wonderful. I can only recommend this tour.”
Ingrid, traveled in December
South America's diverse terrains unfold from Mount Fitz Roy's base to Perito Moreno Glacier and Sea Lion Colony. Dramatic elevation changes range from Salta's 13,615ft peaks to Ushuaia's sea level.
Duration 21 days Destinations Salta, Purmamarca, Mendoza, San Carlos De Bariloche, Perito Moreno Glacier, El Chalten, El Calafate, Rio Gallegos, Ushuaia Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator Hi Travel Argentina From
- NZ$5,038
The dramatic landscapes of South America unfold from Grey Glacier's ice fields to Moon Valley's otherworldly formations. Walking Torres del Paine's renowned trails, visiting Queulat's hanging glacier, and watching El Tatio's geothermal spectacle await. Perfect for adventure seekers wanting to experience diverse terrains.
Duration 27 days Destinations Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park, Coyhaique, Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt, Frutillar, Los Alerces National Park, San Pedro De Atacama, Santiago Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Receptivo Aborigen Tours From $4,338
15% Off- NZ$3,687You save $651
Uyuni Salt Flats & Desert Adventure 4D/3N (Atacama to La Paz)
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Salt flats were amazing. Accommodation and meals were basic but did not impact the experience.”
Christopher, traveled in January
South America's extreme terrains beckon adventurers to the 4,550m Siloli Desert, steaming geysers at Sol de Mañana, and surreal landscapes at Fish Island. Spanish guides lead groups in 4x4 transport across Uyuni's endless salt plains.
Duration 4 days Destinations San Pedro De Atacama, Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve, Juriques Mountain, Uyuni, Red Lagoon (Laguna Colorada), Cerro Cañapa, Uyuni Salt Flat, La Paz Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
15% Off- NZ$702
4WD vehicles traverse South America's most extreme terrains. Ancient cacti tower on Incahuasi Island, while the otherworldly Siloli Desert leads to active geysers at Sol de Mañana. Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking remote destinations.
Duration 3 days Destinations Uyuni, Huayllajara, San Pedro De Atacama Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
15% Off- NZ$637
Premier diving sites around Santa Cruz Island offer encounters with hammerhead sharks and sea lions. Cerro Mesa Ecological Reserve treks, pristine water kayaking, and cycling to the island's largest sinkhole fill five days of moderate-intensity adventures at approx. $380 daily.
Duration 5 days Destinations Baltra Island, Puerto Ayora Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator Responsible Travel South America From
15% Off- NZ$3,344
This adrenaline-charged South American expedition features 30-meter abseiling and canopy zipline in Manu. The Alto Madre de Dios River leads to cloud forest trails where rare spectacled bears roam. Nights are spent at remote Paititi Lodge with expert guides.
Duration 5 days Destinations Cusco, Manu National Park Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
15% Off- NZ$1,312
Iquitos Amazon Jungle Adventure 3D/2N
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“A once in a lifetime experience. Pure magic.”
Amanda, traveled in May
The rainforests near Iquitos hold countless adventures. Travelers trek the Leoncito trail, fish for piranhas in remote lakes, and take thrilling night walks searching for anacondas. Traditional canoes carry visitors along the Amazon River while expert naturalist guides spot rare wildlife.
Duration 3 days Destinations Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
15% Off- NZ$1,050
What people love about Active Tours in South America
- Desert Adventure: Paracas, Ica & Huacachina with Buggies and Sandboarding
Everything was great including food and local tour guide.
- Uyuni Salt Flats & Desert Adventure 4D/3N (Atacama to La Paz)
Absolutely amazing!! Well worth it!
- Manaus Amazon Jungle Adventure 5D/4N
Each day trip was well planned, almost tailored to the individual interests of the traveller. The guides were very helpful to everyone. In my case, because of my age (75 years old) they were so conscious of that, even I did not asked for any special treatment and tried do things myself, they were always ready to help! They had a good sense of humour and were very, very knowledgable of the Amazon environment. Conrado made numerous efforts to let the group in the boat to catch a glimpse of birds, daulphins and sloths. They showed all what was promised and sometimes more. Thank you, I highly recommend this tour and this Company. Big high five!!!
What our customers ask about Adventure Tours & Trips in South America
When is the best time to go on an Adventure tour in South America?
Weather patterns across South America create distinct optimal travel seasons for different regions. Patagonia shines from October to March with comfortable temperatures and clear skies that are perfect for outdoor activities in Torres del Paine and Bariloche. The Andes region including Cusco and La Paz works best from April to October during the dry season when trails are accessible and views are clear. A TourRadar traveler shared their experience: "Amazing 4 weeks seeing incredible places eating new and exciting food meeting extremely interesting people and experiencing a plethora of cultures in perfect weather conditions."
What type of accommodation can I expect on South America Adventure tours?
South American tours offer diverse lodging options that range from city hotels to remote wilderness accommodations. Places like the Itamandi EcoLodge in the Amazon and Embassy Hotel in Mendoza showcase this variety. Most itineraries mix 3-4 star urban hotels with simpler but well-maintained lodges in remote locations. As one traveler noted: "The Hotel Deja Vu in Santa Cruz offered the perfect base for our Galapagos adventures while the rustic bungalows in Sangalle provided an authentic canyon experience."
What are the must-see Adventure highlights in South America?
South America's natural wonders create the backdrop for remarkable outdoor experiences. Key destinations include the towering Andes Mountains dense Amazon rainforest dramatic Torres del Paine National Park powerful Iguazu Falls and stark Atacama Desert. Active travelers can try sandboarding in Huacachina whitewater rafting near Mendoza or trek to Mount Fitz Roy in El Chalten. According to one visitor: "From the breathtaking Andes Mountains to the vibrant Amazon rainforest South America is full of natural beauty that leaves a lasting impression."
How much does an Adventure tour in South America typically cost?
Daily rates for South American adventures range from $175 to $700 based on comfort level and activities. A 5-day Mendoza Adventure Tour averages $312 per day with accommodations while longer trips like the 21-day Full Argentina Adventure on Route 40 cost about $111 daily. Specialty experiences such as Antarctica expeditions reach the higher end at $700 per day.
What wildlife might I encounter during South American Adventure tours?
The continent's biodiversity offers rich wildlife viewing opportunities. The Amazon regions of Iquitos and Cuyabeno host pink river dolphins various monkey species sloths and numerous bird species. Bolivia's Laguna Colorada features three flamingo species. A visitor at Muyuna Lodge reported: "The guide Julio was amazing at spotting wildlife from tiny pygmy marmosets to nocturnal caimans." The Galapagos Islands add encounters with marine iguanas giant tortoises and sea lions.
What fitness level is required for South American Adventure tours?
Activities on these tours demand moderate to good physical condition. The Peru Action & Adventure tour includes a challenging 4-day Inca jungle trek reaching 14160 feet at Malaga Pass. Amazon excursions in areas like Cuyabeno are less demanding but involve regular hiking and canoe trips. A traveler noted: "The timetable is very demanding but the impressions from all these beautiful landscapes make it totally worth it."
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