The Best Organized Adventure Tours in South America
Guided Group Tours, Vacation Packages, or Planned Itineraries
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary journey with one of these amazing adventure tours in South America. Our extensive research of holiday packages and organized guided tours has led us to uncover the finest journeys available, carefully analyzed from a diverse range of offerings from highly regarded travel companies. Every aspect, from pricing and guest ratings to service quality, destinations, and activities, has been taken into account. Whether you're an experienced explorer or venturing to new places for the first time, these thoughtfully selected adventure tours promise an unforgettable adventure in South America.
The Best Adventure Tours through South America
Including guided tours, organized tours, holiday packages, all-inclusive vacations, and guided itineraries.
All tour prices are listed in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically. While we do our best to evaluate all tours to maintain accuracy, always confirm the details directly with TourRadar or the tour company before booking. The information provided on this website is sourced directly from TourRadar and may change at any time.
Why does South America appeal to adventure travelers?
South America offers endless adventures for thrill-seekers looking to experience exciting activities and dynamic destinations. Rio de Janeiro, Foz do Iguacu, and Florianopolis are world-renowned for hiking, with gorgeous trails and stunning natural landscapes. Rio de Janeiro, Florianopolis, and Salvador are popular with beach lovers. You can't miss the nightlife of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Salvador, either. Budget travelers love Rio de Janeiro, Foz do Iguacu, and Salvador because of the affordable activities and social vibe. With its variety of ecosystems and outdoor activities, South America is a playground for adventure travelers.
How much do Adventure Tours in South America cost?
The average daily price of Adventure Tours in South America is $285 per day. Prices can vary widely due to the included amenities, length of the trip, number of guests on the tour, and many other factors. If you want more information about prices, we have put together a complete analysis of the costs of Adventure Tours in South America here.
We partner with TourRadar because they offer the world's largest selection of multi-day organized tours, offering seamless travel experiences while supporting local businesses. It's the perfect way to explore new destinations with ease and confidence.
Which Tour Companies Offer Adventure Tours?
A number of fantastic tour companies offer adventure tours in South America. These are a few of the best, because they offer the highest rated service, provide the best overall quality, and have the most five-star guest reviews to prove it.
G Adventures
G Adventures is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. Some of their most popular destinations include Thailand, Peru, South Africa, and Vietnam. Many of their tours are priced in the mid-range category. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as camping, island hopping, snorkelling, surfing, wine tasting, kayaking, cooking classes, water sports, jungle surfing, and canyoning.
See All Tours from G Adventures
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. Some of their most popular destinations include Australia, Thailand, Tanzania, and Italy. Many of the tours fall into the mid-range price category. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as camping, wine tasting, snorkelling, kayaking, cooking classes, island hopping, white water rafting, surfing, horse riding, whale watching, and bird watching.
See All Tours from Intrepid Travel
Explore!
Explore! Is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. A number of their tours visit destinations in Europe and Asia. Some of their most popular destinations include India, Italy, Vietnam, and Spain. A large number of their tours fall within in the mid-range price category. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as island hopping, wine tasting, camping, whale watching, white water rafting, and bird watching.
The Colombian Trip
The Colombian Trip offers local cultural tours through Colombia. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 7 days to 9 days. Despite being priced a bit higher, the small group sizes create a more personal and unique experience for travelers. A large number of their tours fall within in the mid-range price category.
See All Tours from The Colombian Trip
Adventure Destinations in South America
Wondering where adventure tours visit in South America? With a variety of stops and destinations along the way, there's something for everyone.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is a world famous megacity that is filled with colorful neighborhoods and a population that knows how to have fun. The city has iconic beaches such as Copacabana and countless urban hikes that take you to dramatic mountain peaks. At night, people come out to party, and you're sure to have a good time, particularly during the Carnival season.
Foz Do Iguacu
Foz do Iguaçu is the main hub for visitors going to the waterfall on the Brazilian side. Iguaçu Falls is the largest waterfall in the world and it sits on the border between Brazil and Argentina. The are many separate cascades as well as walkways and trails around the falls. Devil's Throat is the tallest of the cascades.
Sao Paulo
São Paulo is the largest city in South America. It's also the economic and financial capital of Brazil and a cultural and international megacity. There's a range of architecture styles around town and many unique neighborhoods. It's not the most popular destination in Brazil, but it does offer a unique experience with a glimpse at real life in a large and diverse setting.
Salvador
Salvador is the capital city of the state of Bahia. It has a historic area that is filled with colonial architecture that dates back to the Portuguese colonial period. Today the city's culture still reflects its Afro-Brazilian roots. The city also runs along the coastline and is home to several beautiful, sandy beaches.
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Other popular destinations for adventure tours through South America include Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Lima, and Buenos Aires.
Adventure Tours vs. Independent Travel: Pros and Cons
If you're torn between arranging your own trip and booking a guided tour, take a moment to weigh the differences between the two approaches.
Organized Tours
- Experts ensure safety and guide the activities.
- Equipment and gear are provided.
- Access to remote or restricted areas.
- Travel with a group of like-minded adventurers.
- No need to research or plan logistics.
- Guides share knowledge about the environment.
- Transportation is handled for you.
- Perfect for beginners needing guidance.
- Fixed schedules limit your freedom.
- Activities might not match your preferences.
- Strict itineraries may limit spontaneity.
- Physical demands may vary within the group.
- Less opportunity to explore independently.
Independent Travel
- Total control over your itinerary.
- Choose activities that suit your skill level.
- Flexibility to change plans on the go.
- Travel at your own pace without a group.
- Explore lesser-known or unique spots.
- Customize your gear and adventure style.
- Requires time and effort to plan.
- Researching safety and risks can be tough.
- Navigating remote areas may be stressful.
- Finding quality gear can be expensive.
- Risk of missing important permits or rules.
- Emergencies are harder to manage solo.
- May miss out on local insights from guides.
- No backup support if something goes wrong.
Which is cheaper?
Is it cheaper to plan your own trip or join guided adventure tours? The answer isn't clear-cut. Tours typically package accommodations, transportation, meals, entry fees, and activities into one price, whereas independent travelers must arrange and pay for these themselves. To understand the cost difference, compare the tour's price with the cost of booking everything individually. Depending on whether you choose budget-friendly options or splurge on certain aspects, the tour might be a better deal—or not. Make sure to check what's included before drawing conclusions.
Also, before booking a tour, make sure you know exactly what is included as tour companies sometimes change their itineraries or included amenities to keep them updated with seasonal changes and customer interests.
More Tour Options
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