South America Tours in January 2026
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10 best South America trips in January 2026
Compiled by

NinaSouth America travel expert at TourRadar
- Explore Bolivia to Brazil (from La Paz to Mangaratiba)
- All Around South America: From Salt flats to Macchu Picchu
- 5 Countries: Rio de Janeiro to La Paz (30 Days)
- Lima to Buenos Aires: Deserts & Dancing
- Highlights of South America - 21 days
- Chile to Brazil: Road Trippin’ Lake District & Beyond
- From Snow-capped Peaks to Pristine Islands: A journey across the Andes, Cloudforest and Galapagos
- Bolivia to Brazil: Highlands & Coastlines
- Bolivia, Peru & Ecuador with Galápagos : The Spirit of the Andes & Islands
- The Heart of South America: Santiago to Rio in 14 Days
Duration 31 days Destinations Bolivia, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel January departure dates
2 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left From $9,135
15% Off- NZ$7,765You save $1,370
Duration 24 days Destinations Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Journaway January departure dates
See All Departure Dates10 Jan, 2026 4 spaces left 12 Jan, 2026 2 spaces left From $12,513
31% Off- NZ$8,657You save $3,856
Duration 30 days Destinations Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Bolivia Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator Hi Travel Argentina January departure dates
See All Departure Dates4 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left 5 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left From
31% Off- NZ$5,114
Lima to Buenos Aires: Deserts & Dancing
12 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It's such an amazing way to travel, suited to absolutely everyone because you can do your own thing when you want.”
Roisin, traveled in July
Duration 35 days Destinations Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures January departure dates
See All Departure Dates6 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left 27 Jan, 2026 3 spaces left From $7,859
15% Off- NZ$6,680You save $1,179
Duration 21 days Destinations Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator On The Go Tours January departure dates
5 Jan, 2026 4 spaces left From $16,135
5% Off- NZ$15,328You save $807
Duration 28 days Destinations Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From
5% Off- NZ$7,179
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Mindo Valley, Cotopaxi National Park, Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Authentic Ecuador January departure dates
See All Departure Dates1 Jan, 2026 8 spaces left 2 Jan, 2026 8 spaces left From $5,973
4% Off- NZ$5,751You save $223
Bolivia to Brazil: Highlands & Coastlines
18 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“An amazing trip that I will never forget. There have been so many highlights that I cannot even sum up the trip in a single paragraph.”
Jamie, traveled in May
Duration 31 days Destinations Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From $8,519
15% Off- NZ$7,241You save $1,278
Duration 17 days Destinations Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Wonderful Holidays UK January departure dates
See All Departure Dates2 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left 3 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left From $15,975
20% Off- NZ$12,780You save $3,195
Duration 14 days Destinations Chile, Argentina, Brazil Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Wonderful Holidays UK January departure dates
See All Departure Dates3 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left 7 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left From
20% Off- NZ$7,751
What our customers ask about South America Tours in January 2026
What is the weather like in South America during January?
Across South America January brings classic summer conditions. Rio de Janeiro sees temperatures of 82°F (28°C) while Buenos Aires reaches 85°F (29°C). Peru's Sacred Valley stays milder at around 68°F (20°C) with periodic rain showers. Guests at places like the Casa de Uco Vineyards & Wine Resort in Mendoza can expect clear sunny days that are perfect for outdoor activities. As one TourRadar traveler notes "The weather was perfect for exploring both the Amazon and Andes regions."
What are the top tours and destinations to visit in South America during January?
The continent's prime destinations shine in January. Rio's beaches come alive with pre-Carnival energy while Iguazu Falls reaches its most powerful flow. Buenos Aires fills with outdoor concerts and cultural events. The Amazon's wildlife becomes more active with guests at properties like the Ecopark Jungle Lodge getting frequent animal sightings. Even with some rain Machu Picchu draws visitors. A TourRadar traveler shares: "Even with occasional showers January was perfect for seeing diverse landscapes from Copacabana Beach to the Amazon to Machu Picchu's mystical ruins."
Are there any special festivals or events in South America during January?
The month kicks off a season of celebrations across the continent. Rio's streets pulse with samba school rehearsals as Carnival approaches. Buenos Aires hosts open-air tango performances in San Telmo and La Boca. Peru celebrates the "Fiestas de Trujillo" with local music and dance traditions. One TourRadar reviewer noted: "The pre-Carnival atmosphere in Rio was electric - seeing the samba schools practice was a highlight of our January visit."
What wildlife encounters are possible in South America during January?
The wet season brings increased wildlife activity to the Amazon Basin especially for birds and primates. Visitors to Iguazu Falls often spot toucans coatis and butterflies. Brazil's coastline offers marine life viewing while the Pantanal wetlands showcase its diverse ecosystem. A TourRadar traveler reports: "Our January Amazon stay at the Ecopark Jungle Lodge provided amazing wildlife encounters - we saw several monkey species exotic birds and even pink river dolphins."
What kind of accommodation options are available in January?
The peak season means booking ahead is essential. Rio's beachfront properties such as Sofitel Copacabana and Arena Leme Hotel fill quickly. Buenos Aires offers luxury stays at the Faena Hotel while smaller towns like Paraty feature boutique options such as Pousada do Sandi. As one TourRadar traveler advises "booking well ahead for January especially in beach destinations." Expect higher rates during this popular period.
What are the best beach destinations in South America for January?
Beach weather reaches its peak in January. Rio's famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches maintain temperatures around 85°F (29°C). Those seeking quieter spots head to Brazil's Ilha Grande or Peru's Paracas coast. A TourRadar traveler shares "The combination of beach time at Copacabana and cultural experiences made January ideal for visiting Rio."





















