South America Cruise Trips
Explore the serene network of rivers crisscrossing South America, from the Amazon to the Orinoco, on our immersive South America cruise tours. Say farewell to the hassle of daily hotel check-ins and the confines of tour buses—instead, our leisurely and luxurious sailing itineraries allow you to experience the continent’s diverse landscapes in style, similar to the enchantment of a South American hiking tour. Whether your dream is a holiday voyage on the Amazon, a serene sail along the Orinoco towards the Caribbean, or venturing into the icy wilderness of Antarctica, our laid-back South America cruise trips include all the must-see destinations. Embark on a journey to uncover the treasures of this beautiful continent and explore neighboring countries like Peru, Brazil, and Colombia, all within one unforgettable adventure. Scroll below to find our favorite cruise tours to South America.
Best Price Guarantee
Best Price Guarantee
We guarantee the best prices on all our tours. If you find a lower price within 24 hours of booking, we'll match it.
Note: Prices may vary based on availability and demand.
Select from 65+ tours
10 Best South America Cruise February Deals
February exclusive deals on Cruise tours in South America — massive savings for a limited time only!
If it's your first time venturing south, the "Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent" cruise delivers an 11-day introduction to Antarctica's wonders, from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. Cross the storied Drake Passage aboard a stable, polar-class vessel, explore the majestic Antarctic Peninsula by Zodiac and on foot, and come face-to-face with penguins, whales, and seals in their pristine habitat. Enrich your journey with expert lectures on glaciology and polar history, and tailor the experience with adventure options to suit your interests. The highlight of this tour is its flexibility, allowing you to customize your Antarctic discovery and experience this icy frontier your way.
11 days
Craving the ultimate polar adventure? The "Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake" tour offers an exhilarating shortcut to the White Continent, flying you over the notorious Drake Passage by charter plane before beginning an eight-day exploration of Antarctica. With Punta Arenas as your gateway, land on King George Island and embark on a cruise through the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Choose from a variety of adventure activities and onboard programs tailored to your interests, from Zodiac cruises to wildlife encounters with penguins and seals. The unique selling point of this trip is its time-saving approach—perfect for intrepid travelers keen to maximize their Antarctic experience without enduring days at sea.
8 days
Set sail for untamed beauty with the "South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari" cruise, a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day tour that starts and ends in Ushuaia. Cruise through the wildlife haven of South Georgia, where king penguins and elephant seals greet you in epic numbers, and pay homage to explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Continue to the soaring peaks and icy expanses of the Antarctic Peninsula, where Zodiac excursions, glacier hikes, and encounters with curious penguins await. The tour’s standout feature is the use of the state-of-the-art Ultramarine vessel, offering pioneering flightseeing and a wider range of adventure options than any other ship in its class—an unmatched opportunity to experience the Antarctic’s raw splendor.
18 days
Tick off a true bucket-list achievement with the "Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle" tour, an 11-day voyage that starts and ends in Punta Arenas. Skip the long sea journey by flying over the Drake Passage, then cruise from the South Shetland Islands all the way to the iconic Antarctic Circle. Experience the magic of kayaking among icebergs and exploring the pristine wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula. This trip’s USP is its fast-track approach, letting you reach the Circle—and participate in unforgettable polar activities—in less time, making it ideal for those who crave adventure without the lengthy transit.
11 days
For those who dream big, the "Epic Antarctica: The Falklands, South Georgia and Crossing the Circle" cruise lives up to its name. This extraordinary 23-day expedition from Buenos Aires weaves through the penguin-filled Falkland Islands, the wildlife paradise of South Georgia, and the breathtaking Antarctic Peninsula, all the way to the fabled Antarctic Circle. Experience penguin colonies numbering in the hundreds of thousands, spot seals and seabirds, and enjoy the thrill of crossing into the Circle itself—a milestone for any explorer. The tour’s unique highlight is the pioneering Ultramarine ship, offering exclusive flightseeing and the broadest range of polar activities available, making this the ultimate Antarctic adventure.
23 days
Patagonia’s wild beauty awaits on this 15-day cruise tour, charting a course from Buenos Aires to Santiago via the remote fjords and national parks of southern Chile and Argentina. Retrace Darwin’s legendary exploration as you glide past majestic glaciers, observe Magellanic penguins and sea lions, and venture into the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. The journey blends the comfort of the pioneering Ultramarine vessel—with its unmatched adventure amenities and scenic flightseeing tours—with up-close Zodiac excursions and rich wildlife encounters. This is the ideal trip for intrepid travelers seeking a blend of luxury and adventure, with the USP being exclusive access to helicopter flightseeing above Patagonia’s untamed landscapes.
15 days
Patagonia’s haunting beauty awaits on this 18-day sightseeing trip, designed for young adults eager to discover the wild heart of Argentina and Chile. Traverse the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier—one of the rare glaciers still expanding—and hike through the untamed wonders of Torres del Paine, Los Glaciares, and Tierra del Fuego National Parks.
Cruise across pristine lakes, roam serene forests, and spot native wildlife as you journey toward Ushuaia, the legendary "City at the End of the World." Explore the Beagle Channel before shifting gears to the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, where tango rhythms and gourmet Argentine cuisine await.
This tour package’s unique appeal lies in its easy pace, expertly balancing adventure with comfort. You’ll uncover both the natural marvels and cultural highlights of Patagonia—all while enjoying the seamless logistics and insider guidance that make for a truly unforgettable adventure.
18 days
Discover the pristine beauty of the Galápagos on the "Galápagos – West and Central Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager (Cruise Only)" trip, an eight-day guided marine wildlife adventure beginning and ending on Baltra Island. Perfect for experienced travelers, this tour offers the chance to spot flamingoes and iguanas on Punta Cormorant’s beaches, snorkel with marine life in Punta Vicente Roca, and visit the famed Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz. Enjoy the comfort of the Reina Silvia Voyager catamaran, designed for relaxed and convenient exploration. The standout feature of this tour package is its luxurious, small-group sailing experience, which makes discovering the Galápagos easy, inspiring, and truly memorable.
8 days
Ready for a true Amazonian adventure? The "Brazilian Amazon by Boat" trip spans 14 days from Belém to Manaus, immersing experienced travelers in the heart of Brazil’s wildest landscapes. Navigate the mighty Amazon River and its tributaries, just as locals do, sleeping in hammocks under star-studded skies and drifting past remote villages and lush reserves.
Journey through Rio de Janeiro, Alter Do Chao, and other hidden gems, with daily wildlife spotting, market visits, and community encounters along the way. Trek the trails of the FLONA Reserve, meet the Jamaraqua community, and delve into the rich history of rubber in the Amazon. Sail around the islands of Rio Negro, discovering floating Victoria Regia waterlilies and visiting traditional caboclo settlements.
With moderate activity, this guided wildlife tour offers basic comforts but extraordinary rewards: full cultural immersion and close-up encounters with nature. The unique selling point? Traveling the Amazon as locals do—by riverboat—offering a rare, authentic perspective on one of the world’s greatest wildernesses.
14 days
No other voyage compares: spend more time exploring the Falkland Islands and South Georgia than ever before on our exclusive Falkland Islands and South Georgia: 20-Day Wildlife Adventure. Sailing from the Patagonian coastal city of Puerto Madryn, you’ll reach the northwesternmost islands of the Falklands—a rare achievement for even the most seasoned polar adventurers. Enjoy three days exploring the Falklands archipelago, with visits to spectacular sites like Steeple Jason—the world’s largest black-browed albatross colony—and New Island. Then immerse yourself for six full days in wildlife-rich South Georgia—virtually unheard of in expedition travel.
20 days
See all South America Cruise February Deals
Most popular Cruise Tours in South America
Discover our best Cruise tours in South America, based on reviews and times booked.
From steaming jungles to sun-kissed beaches, the Costa Rica Adventure Family Holiday serves up 15 days of pure excitement for families and nature lovers. Starting and ending in San Jose, this wildlife tour takes you deep into Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and vibrant national parks, including Arenal Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall. Cruise the Tortuguero canals searching for monkeys and toucans, share an unforgettable encounter at the famous Sloth Sanctuary, and embark on a night walk to spot nocturnal wildlife. Options like white-water rafting and splashing in hot springs ensure there’s something for every adventurer. The trip also includes time to unwind along both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts—in Cahuita and Manuel Antonio—where rainforests meet white sand beaches. Designed for families eager to bond over shared discovery, the highlight of this tour is its unique blend of wildlife encounters, hands-on activities, and downtime, all set against the backdrop of Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity.
15 days
Take a step into a world of pure nature in Patagonia, where crystal-clear waters meet mountainside glaciers. Feel the Latin-infused rhythms of Buenos Aires. Gaze upon awe-inspiring mountains, valleys and grasslands at Torres del Paine National Park. Enjoy a 4-night cruise through the fjords of Patagonia. Engage in a variety of nature hikes. Spend the day by the Pia Glacier. View a colony of Magellanic penguins. Connect with a local gaucho (cowboy) at an Argentine lamb roast. Find a haven of snowcapped Andes and ethereal fjords in the wilderness of Chile and Argentina.
15 days
Discover the pristine beauty of the Galápagos on the "Galápagos – West and Central Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager (Cruise Only)" trip, an eight-day guided marine wildlife adventure beginning and ending on Baltra Island. Perfect for experienced travelers, this tour offers the chance to spot flamingoes and iguanas on Punta Cormorant’s beaches, snorkel with marine life in Punta Vicente Roca, and visit the famed Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz. Enjoy the comfort of the Reina Silvia Voyager catamaran, designed for relaxed and convenient exploration. The standout feature of this tour package is its luxurious, small-group sailing experience, which makes discovering the Galápagos easy, inspiring, and truly memorable.
8 days
Argentina's vast diversity is yours to explore on the "Discovering the Best of Argentina" tour. Over 15 memorable days, young adults will journey from the icy glaciers of Patagonia to the thunderous Iguazu Falls, stroll the Parisian boulevards of Buenos Aires, witness the end of the world in Ushuaia, and sip wine in Mendoza’s sunlit vineyards. This trip expertly combines scenic wonders with immersive cultural experiences—think tango performances and outdoor adventures. The stand-out feature? A thoughtfully curated itinerary that showcases Argentina’s most spectacular contrasts, all in one unforgettable tour package.
15 days
Dive deep into Peru’s wonders on the Peru In Depth and the Inca Trail tour, a 19-day odyssey crafted for experienced travelers with a taste for adventure and cultural immersion. Starting in Lima and culminating in Cusco, this challenging tour package weaves together iconic sites and hidden treasures, blending hiking with authentic encounters.
The adventure unfolds across 15 destinations, from the enigmatic Nazca Lines to the elegant colonial streets of Arequipa. Feel the rush as you gaze at condors gliding over Colca Canyon—one of the world’s deepest gorges—or immerse yourself in lakeside life with a homestay on the serene waters of Lake Titicaca. Your trekking journey peaks with the legendary Inca Trail, a multi-day hike through cloud forests and ancient ruins, culminating in a sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu.
When permits for the Inca Trail are limited, the alternative Quarry Trek offers a quieter, equally scenic route, merging into the classic trail for a triumphant finish. Throughout, you’ll be supported by expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and thoughtfully arranged meals and transport.
The USP of this tour package lies in its blend of both headline attractions and off-the-beaten-path experiences—delivering a holistic, in-depth exploration of Peru’s landscapes, cultures, and history. For travelers seeking a journey that challenges, inspires, and reveals the heart of Peru, this is the ultimate adventure.
19 days
Craving a journey that fuses untamed natural beauty with the electric pulse of a world-class city? This 9-day trip, "Lakes, Glaciers and Bohemian Buenos Aires," is tailored for adventurous young adults eager for both excitement and discovery. Begin your Argentine adventure in Buenos Aires, where the cobbled streets and lively outdoor cafes set the stage for immersive city exploration. Experience the city’s bohemian spirit and rich cultural heritage, topped off with an unforgettable tango show.
Venture south to witness the legendary Perito Moreno Glacier—one of the planet’s rare glaciers that continues to grow. Feel the chill and awe from various vantage points, then cruise the icy waters for an up-close perspective. For those seeking the ultimate thrill, there’s even an option to trek across the glacier’s surface when the schedule allows.
Your journey continues in Bariloche, Argentina’s famed Lake District nestled in the Andes’ foothills. This region is a paradise for nature lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, offering stunning lake views and the chance to indulge in local treats. The trip’s moderate activity level ensures plenty of active sightseeing and unique experiences, making it ideal for energetic travelers who want more than just passive sightseeing.
What sets this tour package apart is its blend of iconic Argentine destinations—each offering a distinct flavor of adventure, culture, and natural wonder. Dive into Argentina’s best, from Buenos Aires’ vibrant streets to the glacial majesty of Patagonia and the serene beauty of Bariloche’s lakes. This is the trip for those who want to experience diverse landscapes, vibrant city life, and a touch of bohemia—all in one unforgettable getaway.
9 days
Ready for a true Amazonian adventure? The "Brazilian Amazon by Boat" trip spans 14 days from Belém to Manaus, immersing experienced travelers in the heart of Brazil’s wildest landscapes. Navigate the mighty Amazon River and its tributaries, just as locals do, sleeping in hammocks under star-studded skies and drifting past remote villages and lush reserves.
Journey through Rio de Janeiro, Alter Do Chao, and other hidden gems, with daily wildlife spotting, market visits, and community encounters along the way. Trek the trails of the FLONA Reserve, meet the Jamaraqua community, and delve into the rich history of rubber in the Amazon. Sail around the islands of Rio Negro, discovering floating Victoria Regia waterlilies and visiting traditional caboclo settlements.
With moderate activity, this guided wildlife tour offers basic comforts but extraordinary rewards: full cultural immersion and close-up encounters with nature. The unique selling point? Traveling the Amazon as locals do—by riverboat—offering a rare, authentic perspective on one of the world’s greatest wildernesses.
14 days
Ready to lace up your boots for the ultimate hiking adventure? The "Wild Patagonia for Hikers" trip delivers a thrilling 16-day exploration of Argentina’s and Chile’s most dramatic landscapes, perfectly suited to energetic young adults. Discover the legendary trails of El Chaltén, known as Argentina’s trekking capital, where the mighty Fitz Roy Mountain towers over a wonderland of glaciers, lakes, and forests.
Immerse yourself in the wild grandeur of Torres del Paine National Park, famed for its blue icebergs, towering cliffs, and wildlife-rich pampas. Witness the awesome Perito Moreno Glacier—one of the world’s few advancing glaciers—fed by the vast Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Push further south, crossing the storied Strait of Magellan to reach Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. This adventure isn’t just about epic hikes and jaw-dropping vistas—it’s a rare opportunity to experience the full spectrum of Patagonia’s untamed beauty, from its unique flora and fauna to its staggering mountain scenery.
The USP? An immersive trek through the heart of Patagonia, featuring iconic national parks and legendary trails, all tailored for passionate hikers seeking a true test of endurance and wonder.
16 days
Unleash your adventurous side with Pure Brazil, a 14-day guided journey from Salvador to Rio de Janeiro. This wildlife-focused trip delves into the Amazon, the Pantanal, and the spectacle of Iguazu Falls, while also immersing you in Brazil’s vibrant cities. Explore on foot and canoe in the world’s richest wetlands, ascend Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views, and experience the energy of Rio’s samba scene. Ideal for experienced travelers, this tour package’s standout feature is its comprehensive itinerary, blending once-in-a-lifetime natural wonders with the colorful pulse of Brazilian culture.
14 days
Are you ready for a whirlwind adventure through the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador’s vibrant capital? The "Highlights of Quito and Galapagos Cruise" tour is a 7-day exploration crafted for travelers who want a taste of South America’s unique wildlife and culture in a short timeframe. Begin your trip in Quito, nestled amid the Andes, before flying to Baltra Island to embark on an unforgettable cruise.
In Santa Cruz, discover the volcanic landscapes and observe world-famous giant tortoises. Continue to Floreana Island, a haven for pink flamingos and nesting sea turtles, then journey to Espanola, where rare birds like the waved albatross and blue-footed boobies rule the land. Marvel at El Soplador, a dramatic blowhole, before capping off your trip in San Cristobal with its playful sea lions and rugged coastlines.
This tour package’s unique selling point is the blend of close-up wildlife encounters and the rich cultural experience of Quito, all wrapped into a relaxed, expertly guided cruise. With accommodations, meals, and transport arranged, it’s the perfect gateway for those eager to explore the Galapagos without missing Ecuador’s urban charm.
7 days
See all South America Cruise Tours
Top South America Tour Activities for Cruise
Discover tours tailored to your interests, from cruise tours to wildlife trips as well as polar expeditions cruise experiences. Find the perfect activity to match your passion.
South America Cruise Tour Reviews
Genuine reviews from travelers on Cruise South America tours
Jill | Traveled in December
Antarctica was somewhere I had long wanted to visit and I have finally been. This is the best trip I have ever done with Explore and there have been very many wonderful ones. To anyone considering going to Antarctica, I'd say, 'do go', you will not regret it.
Kaying H. | Traveled in November
This tour was extensive to cover the Patagonia area. One main point is to decrease the stay in Buenos Aires and to add more in Patagonia area specifically at the Rio Serano area where I felt we could have experienced more of Patagonia that the short stay we had. The Ventus cruise was excellent to experience the glaciers in this region and we were blessed to land on Cape Horn. Overall, I cannot complain and enjoyed every part of the itinerary as well as my fellow travelers in this small tour group.
Andrew | Traveled in October
Booking with Explore is easy and straightforward. The ability to log in to your account to add and check details is excellent. Explore are always keeping you up to date with your trip. My trip to Peru was amazing. Wonderful country, landscapes, food, culture. The Explore itinerary captures all the highlights without the hassle of organising yourself. Julio was a great tour leader. Friendly, funny, well organised and professional. We didn't have to worry about anything with Julio looking after us.
Adrian | Traveled in October
In three weeks we had a comprehensive tour of Peru with an excellent leader, Julio. Diverse landscapes, fabulous food, friendly people and amazing weather. We learned so much about the country and are already planning to return.
Val | Traveled in October
One of my best ever adventures, made special by a caring group and Julio our experienced and knowledgeable guide who was full of enthusiasm and cared about everyone. My top highlights were Taquile Island, particularly the singing and dancing around the fire, and camping above the clouds on the Inca Trail. Other high points included the Lima v Arequippa football match, Huacachina Oasis, the floating islands, the hot springs and Ollantayambo.
Anonymous | Traveled in October
Julio was an excellent guide- the best I have experienced. His knowledge, enthusiasm and lovely sense of humour helped to make the trip unforgettable. Highlights included staying at a home stay on Lake Titicaca, condor viewing, seeing Humboldt penguins, trekking over the Dead Woman’s Pass and seeing Machu Picchu.
Keep Exploring South America
Tour Types
- South America Tours
- South America Eco Tours
- South America Guided and Escorted Tours
- South America Group Tours
- South America Small Group Tours
- South America Tailor-made Vacation Packages
- South America Travel Deals
- South America Experienced Travelers Trips
- South America Solo Trips
- South America Budget Tours
- South America Tours for Young Adults
- South America Tours for Senior Citizens
- South America Private Tours
- South America Last Minute Deals
- South America Luxury Tours
- South America Self Guided Tours
- South America Tour Operators
Popular Destinations
Popular Activities
- Explorer Tours
- Trekking and Hiking Tours
- Cultural, religious and historic sites Tours
- Adventure Tours
- Natural landmarks sightseeing Tours
- City sightseeing Tours
- Wildlife Tours
- Active and outdoor Tours
- National parks Tours
- Wildlife safaris and game drives Tours
- Art and architecture Tours
- Beach Tours
- Sightseeing Tours
- Bicycle Tours
- Rainforest and jungle visits Tours
- Walking Tours