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
- Bolivia to Brazil: Highlands & Coastlines
- Best of Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil
- Galapagos Cruise & Peru’s Land of the Incas (Grand Daphne)
- Highlights of South America - 21 days
- Southern Divide
- Peru, Bolivia & Argentina Adventure
- South America Discovery: Lima to Rio de Janiero
- Snow & Ice Climbing on Alpamayo – 19 Days
- From Snow-capped Peaks to Pristine Islands: A journey across the Andes, Cloudforest and Galapagos
- Exploring South America - 13 days
Bolivia to Brazil: Highlands & Coastlines
18 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great local CEOs. All the best bits covered.”
Emma, traveled in July
Duration 31 days Destinations Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil Age Range 18 to 39 year olds Operator G Adventures January departure dates
See All Departure Dates5 Jan, 2026 7 spaces left 30 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left From $8,339
25% Off- NZ$6,254You save $2,085
Duration 10 days Destinations Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel January departure dates
See All Departure Dates2 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left 9 Jan, 2026 9 spaces left From $4,355
5% Off- NZ$4,137You save $218
Duration 21 days Destinations Ecuador, Portugal, Peru, Mexico Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel January departure dates
20 Jan, 2026 7 spaces left From
5% Off- NZ$13,230+$366 local payments
Duration 21 days Destinations Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator On The Go Tours January departure dates
5 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left From
5% Off- NZ$16,325
Southern Divide
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This tour was fantastic and our tour guide Eddie was the best CEO ever. The local food was great.”
Tegan, traveled in September
Duration 21 days Destinations Peru, Bolivia, Chile Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator G Adventures January departure dates
See All Departure Dates2 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left 9 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left From $6,919
15% Off- NZ$5,881You save $1,038
Duration 35 days Destinations Peru, Bolivia, Argentina Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel January departure dates
3 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left From $7,840
5% Off- NZ$7,448You save $392
Duration 38 days Destinations Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Brazil Age Range 12 to 90 year olds Operator G Adventures January departure dates
See All Departure Dates25 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left 30 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left From
5% Off- NZ$13,459
Duration 19 days Destinations Huaraz, Huascaran National Park Age Range 21 to 60 year olds Operated in English, Spanish Operator Unu Raymi Expeditions January departure dates
See All Departure Dates1 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left 2 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left From $5,814
10% Off- NZ$5,233You save $581
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Mindo Valley, Cotopaxi National Park, Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora Age Range 5 to 90 year olds 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 $5,567
3% Off- NZ$5,400You save $166
Exploring South America - 13 days
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had an amazing time in South America! We are happy travelers.”
The, traveled in November
Duration 13 days Destinations Peru, Argentina, Brazil Age Range 1 to 99 year olds Operated in English, Spanish Operator Say Hueque Argentina & Chile Journeys January departure dates
See All Departure Dates1 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left 2 Jan, 2026 10 spaces left From
3% Off- NZ$7,311
What people love about South America Tours in January
- Southern Divide
Fantastic tour! Perfect mix of activities and down time. All must do’s included with great optionales. Very well organised by G Adventures with the best tour guide! Absolutely recommend.
- Ultimate South America (Train To Machu Picchu)
Had an absolute blast traveling round Peru. Gorgeous country with gorgeous views! Massive shout out to Clari who is an absolute superstar! Goes above and beyond too make sure everybody has the best time.
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."