South America Wildlife Trips
For travelers interested in nature and adventure, South America is a fantastic part of the world to visit. The continent is veritably bursting with wildlife wonders found nowhere else on our planet — if you know where to look. Our South America wildlife tours beckon you to explore this wild paradise. Ever dreamt of locking eyes with a jaguar in the depths of the Amazon rainforest? Or perhaps you’ve fancied a curious encounter with an Andean spectacled bear high in the mountains? From the heart of the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, where jaguars, giant otters, and anacondas thrive, to the pristine Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, home to giant tortoises and marine iguanas, a South America wildlife tour is the best gateway to these incredible ecosystems. Explore the landscapes of Patagonia to see guanacos and elusive pumas. Dive deep into the wilds of the Pantanal wetlands in Brazil, where giant otters patrol the marches, and capybaras graze leisurely amidst the tranquil waters. If you yearn for awe-inspiring sightseeing, pair your journey with our South America National Park tours, where you can revel in both the captivating fauna and the breathtaking landscapes. You will find our best wildlife tours to South America below.
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Most popular Wildlife Tours in South America
Discover our best Wildlife tours in South America, based on reviews and times booked.
Picture yourself high in the Costa Rican jungle canopy, locking eyes with a monkey as you embark on the Costa Rica Quest tour. Tailored for experienced travelers seeking a taste of adventure in just nine days, this easy-paced wildlife trip starts and ends in San Jose and covers highlights like Manuel Antonio National Park and La Fortuna. From waterfall hikes and secluded beach relaxation to spotting exotic wildlife with the help of local experts, each day offers a new way to explore Costa Rica’s incredible diversity. Your tour leader ensures access to hidden gems and secret spots, making this trip package perfect for those wanting an authentic yet action-packed getaway. The unique selling point: you’ll get the best of Costa Rica’s wild side in a timeframe that fits even a busy adventurer’s schedule.
9 days
What happens when you blend Costa Rica’s iconic wonders with hidden wild corners? The "Costa Rica Adventure" tour delivers a dynamic 16-day wildlife trip, ideal for young adults, experienced travelers, and anyone drawn to nature’s wildest playgrounds. Beginning and ending in San Jose, this adventure winds through lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and idyllic beaches, covering Monteverde Cloud Forest, Tortuguero National Park, and six other vibrant destinations.
Expect a moderate activity level—perfect for those who love to stay active but appreciate flexibility. Guided excursions are balanced with ample free time, letting you set your own pace. Hike through misty cloud forests, spot monkeys and sloths in dense jungle, or glide by boat through crocodile-filled canals. Optional adrenaline-boosting experiences abound, from zip-lining to white-water rafting, or you can take it easy with a peaceful stroll through a butterfly garden.
What sets this trip apart is the sheer biodiversity and the variety of experiences on offer. Encounter rare wildlife, marvel at dramatic volcanoes, and soak up the relaxed pura vida lifestyle. Friendly guides share their deep local knowledge, ensuring you get the most out of each stop—whether you’re seeking adventure or moments of quiet connection with nature.
If you’re searching for a tour package that’s as rich in wildlife encounters as it is in adventure options, this Costa Rican journey promises both excitement and discovery at every turn.
16 days
Costa Rica’s wild heart is yours to explore on this 15-day "Discover Costa Rica" wildlife tour, meticulously crafted for seniors seeking adventure with comfort. Traverse lush rainforests, relax on both Caribbean and Pacific shores, and spot captivating wildlife—from sloths and howler monkeys to green turtles and toucans—with the help of expert guides. The itinerary includes San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, La Fortuna, and more, balancing active exploration with moments of relaxation. The tour’s unique feature: access to some of the world’s richest biodiversity, all while traveling in a well-supported, small-group setting, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable nature getaway.
15 days
Patagonia’s majestic landscapes call to the adventurous spirit, and the Journeys: Discover Patagonia tour delivers a fourteen-day odyssey through Argentina and Chile’s wild south. Starting and ending in Buenos Aires, this wildlife trip is tailored for experienced travelers and seniors who desire both comfort and active exploration. Traverse from Bariloche to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park, marvel at the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier, and spot penguins in the Beagle Channel. The journey culminates with a tango lesson in Buenos Aires, blending natural and cultural highlights. The USP of this tour package is its diverse modes of travel—by foot, boat, and private vehicle—offering a comprehensive and immersive Patagonian experience with all arrangements smoothly handled.
14 days
Costa Rica’s wild coasts come alive on the "Costa Rica's Coastal Secrets" tour, a 15-day moderate-activity journey designed with seniors in mind. Explore hidden animal hotspots from the Caribbean to the Pacific, guided by expert wildlife leaders. Cruise Tortuguero’s waterways for monkeys and birds, trek through Corcovado’s rainforests seeking sloths and scarlet macaws, and snorkel the vibrant reefs of Caño Island. The USP? This small group tour package is a rare chance to access Costa Rica’s best-kept wildlife secrets, blending relaxed exploration with unforgettable close encounters in one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
15 days
Spark curiosity and adventure in your family with the Costa Rica Family Experience, a 9-day wildlife trip crafted for curious kids and adults alike. Journey from San Jose to the cloud forests and the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, studying exotic flora and fauna up close, both day and night. The itinerary balances educational activities—like observing wildlife—with active pursuits including rappelling, rafting, swimming, horseback riding, and even surfing. All accommodations, meals, and transport are included, ensuring a stress-free holiday for families. The USP: an engaging blend of hands-on biology, ecology, and adventure, making learning and play inseparable in the heart of Costa Rica.
9 days
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
Costa Rica’s wild heart awaits on this Classic Costa Rica adventure trip—a 15-day exploration from lively San Jose to the misty Monteverde Cloud Forest and sun-kissed Pacific beaches. Perfect for those eager for easy-paced discovery, this small group tour immerses you in the country’s lush jungles, bustling farmlands, and pristine parks. Savor local hospitality with a homestay in Santa Rosa de Pocosol, where you’ll help prepare a traditional meal. Unwind in volcanic hot springs at La Fortuna, spot sloths and monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park, and enjoy optional activities ranging from canopy walks to river rafting. The unique selling point? Authentic connection with Costa Rican culture and nature at every turn, ensuring your trip is as enriching as it is relaxed.
15 days
Embark on this special edition of our always-popular Discover Costa Rica adventure, which includes two days exploring the exceptional natural beauty of Dominical. The area is known for its stunning beaches, great sunsets, waterfalls and natural swimming holes, while also offering time in the nearby Marino Ballena National Park. Throughout the rest of the journey, we dive deep into the wildlife of Costa Rica – one of the great animal-watching destinations on the planet, with proportionately more protected land than any other country. With the help of your expert guide, you'll spot the marvellous, often bizarre, variety of animals here, including catatonic sloths, screaming howler monkeys and screeching toucans. Throw in the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines and it is easy to see why this is one of our most popular adventures.
To explore our standard itinerary, which explores Piedras Blancas instead of Dominical, visit Discover Costa Rica.
15 days
Looking to get beneath the surface of Central America? The 12-day 'Costa Rica & Panama Discovery' tour introduces you to the vibrant rhythms and hidden gems of Costa Rica and Panama, beginning in San Jose and winding down in Panama City. With a mix of included activities and free time, you’ll visit the indigenous Ngabe-Bugle community on Isla Popa, learn Caribbean cooking, spot wildlife on jungle walks, and even get a close-up look at the Panama Canal’s engineering marvels. Perfect for explorers drawn to culture and history, this tour package stands out for its access to off-the-beaten-path communities, offering authentic experiences rarely found on standard itineraries. All accommodation, meals, and transport are included, ensuring a smooth and engaging cultural sightseeing journey.
12 days
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For those eager to experience Peru’s wild contrasts, the "Amazon to the Andes" tour is a 12-day wildlife and trekking adventure beginning and ending in Lima. This challenging small-group trip is crafted for experienced travelers who thrive on diversity—scan the Amazon canopy for exotic species from a secluded jungle lodge, then tackle the famed Inca Trail en route to the mystical heights of Machu Picchu. The USP? Not only does this tour package ensure fair treatment for porters and top-quality equipment, but it also blends the thrill of remote wilderness with the magic of ancient civilizations, promising a truly holistic Peruvian escape.
12 days
Picture yourself high in the Costa Rican jungle canopy, locking eyes with a monkey as you embark on the Costa Rica Quest tour. Tailored for experienced travelers seeking a taste of adventure in just nine days, this easy-paced wildlife trip starts and ends in San Jose and covers highlights like Manuel Antonio National Park and La Fortuna. From waterfall hikes and secluded beach relaxation to spotting exotic wildlife with the help of local experts, each day offers a new way to explore Costa Rica’s incredible diversity. Your tour leader ensures access to hidden gems and secret spots, making this trip package perfect for those wanting an authentic yet action-packed getaway. The unique selling point: you’ll get the best of Costa Rica’s wild side in a timeframe that fits even a busy adventurer’s schedule.
9 days
If you’re searching for a transformative adventure, The Great South American Journey: Quito to Rio Adventure should top your list. Designed for young adults ready for a challenge, this 65-day trip weaves through seven countries, from the Andean heights of Quito to the sun-drenched beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Trek the legendary Inca Trail, cross Bolivia’s otherworldly salt flats, soak up the rhythms of Buenos Aires, and lose yourself in Brazil’s vibrant culture. This journey is not just about sightseeing—it’s about embracing adventure, from jungle treks to cultural immersion. The unique selling point? Three nights in the Amazon and unparalleled diversity across landscapes and activities, ensuring that every day is a new chapter. With accommodation, transport, and meals included, you’ll form lifelong friendships and collect stories to last a lifetime.
65 days
For wildlife lovers, the Costa Rica Wildlife Tour reveals the country’s astonishing natural diversity over 15 action-packed days. From San Jose, venture into Tortuguero’s rainforest waterways, raft the thrilling Pacuare River, and explore the white-sand beaches of Manuel Antonio, where iguanas and capuchin monkeys share the shore. This easy-paced adventure, ideal for experienced travelers, also offers the chance to zip-line through jungle canopies. The tour’s unique feature is its immersive focus on wildlife, guaranteeing up-close encounters with Costa Rica’s famed biodiversity in a small-group setting.
15 days
From the vibrant capital of San Jose to the shores of Lake Nicaragua and the mesmerizing highlands of Guatemala, this 16-day "Central American Highlights" tour is crafted for experienced travelers who crave authentic discovery. Traverse five distinct countries—Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala—each brimming with natural wonders and captivating history. Adventure unfolds at every turn: spot wildlife in Costa Rica's lush reserves, immerse yourself in the ancient Maya culture at Copan, and experience local life around Lake Atitlan, where modern Maya traditions flourish.
Throughout this moderate activity trip, you'll journey past active and dormant volcanoes, including the dramatic peaks that surround Antigua, Guatemala. The itinerary is designed to balance action and insight, offering time to savor the scent of spices at Chichicastenango's indigenous market and to wander the cobblestone streets of charming Suchitoto on the edge of Lake Suchitlan. Here, you'll try your hand at making pupusas, a delicious Salvadoran staple, guided by local experts.
The unique selling point of this tour package lies in its seamless blend of outdoor adventure and deep cultural immersion—ensuring you tick off Central America's must-see highlights while uncovering hidden gems rarely visited by casual tourists. Accommodations, transport, meals, and guided experiences are thoughtfully included, so you can focus on connecting with each destination and its people. This is an enriching journey for those who want to explore Central America beyond the surface, discovering both its iconic sights and its living traditions.
16 days
What happens when you blend Costa Rica’s iconic wonders with hidden wild corners? The "Costa Rica Adventure" tour delivers a dynamic 16-day wildlife trip, ideal for young adults, experienced travelers, and anyone drawn to nature’s wildest playgrounds. Beginning and ending in San Jose, this adventure winds through lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and idyllic beaches, covering Monteverde Cloud Forest, Tortuguero National Park, and six other vibrant destinations.
Expect a moderate activity level—perfect for those who love to stay active but appreciate flexibility. Guided excursions are balanced with ample free time, letting you set your own pace. Hike through misty cloud forests, spot monkeys and sloths in dense jungle, or glide by boat through crocodile-filled canals. Optional adrenaline-boosting experiences abound, from zip-lining to white-water rafting, or you can take it easy with a peaceful stroll through a butterfly garden.
What sets this trip apart is the sheer biodiversity and the variety of experiences on offer. Encounter rare wildlife, marvel at dramatic volcanoes, and soak up the relaxed pura vida lifestyle. Friendly guides share their deep local knowledge, ensuring you get the most out of each stop—whether you’re seeking adventure or moments of quiet connection with nature.
If you’re searching for a tour package that’s as rich in wildlife encounters as it is in adventure options, this Costa Rican journey promises both excitement and discovery at every turn.
16 days
Looking to get beneath the surface of Central America? The 12-day 'Costa Rica & Panama Discovery' tour introduces you to the vibrant rhythms and hidden gems of Costa Rica and Panama, beginning in San Jose and winding down in Panama City. With a mix of included activities and free time, you’ll visit the indigenous Ngabe-Bugle community on Isla Popa, learn Caribbean cooking, spot wildlife on jungle walks, and even get a close-up look at the Panama Canal’s engineering marvels. Perfect for explorers drawn to culture and history, this tour package stands out for its access to off-the-beaten-path communities, offering authentic experiences rarely found on standard itineraries. All accommodation, meals, and transport are included, ensuring a smooth and engaging cultural sightseeing journey.
12 days
If Patagonia is calling your name, why not answer with a hike? This Patagonia Hiking trip is a nine-day adventure crafted for young adults and experienced travelers with a passion for challenging treks and epic vistas. Starting and ending in Buenos Aires, you’ll explore the wild heart of Argentina—El Chaltén’s rugged trails, the dramatic silhouette of Fitz Roy, and the icy majesty of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Expect days filled with invigorating hikes through untamed landscapes, evenings swapping stories with fellow adventurers, and moments of awe beneath Patagonia’s vast skies. In between, discover the cosmopolitan flair of Buenos Aires, adding urban excitement to your journey.
The tour’s unique selling point is its focus on active exploration—trekking through some of South America’s most legendary wilderness, offering both physical challenge and the thrill of triumphant achievement.
9 days
If you crave a trip where waterfalls, beaches, and city lights blend seamlessly, Iguassu & Beyond is your nine-day answer. Starting in Buenos Aires and ending in Rio de Janeiro, this wildlife tour whisks experienced travelers from the thundering Iguazu Falls to the sun-drenched beaches of Ilha Grande, with stops in Rio’s vibrant neighborhoods and Paraty’s colonial streets. The unique selling point is the perfect balance of nature and nightlife, offering plenty of opportunities to soak up both wild beauty and urban energy. With hotels, transport, and meals provided, this tour package ensures you experience South America’s most dazzling contrasts in one unforgettable getaway.
9 days
Spark curiosity and adventure in your family with the Costa Rica Family Experience, a 9-day wildlife trip crafted for curious kids and adults alike. Journey from San Jose to the cloud forests and the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, studying exotic flora and fauna up close, both day and night. The itinerary balances educational activities—like observing wildlife—with active pursuits including rappelling, rafting, swimming, horseback riding, and even surfing. All accommodations, meals, and transport are included, ensuring a stress-free holiday for families. The USP: an engaging blend of hands-on biology, ecology, and adventure, making learning and play inseparable in the heart of Costa Rica.
9 days
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South America Wildlife Tour Reviews
Genuine reviews from travelers on Wildlife South America tours
Anonymous | Traveled in May
The 3 hotels worked for us. We hate it when we have to pack/repack to often. Our party of 4 like the itinerary also. Our TD mentioned plenty of stuff to do with our free time too. Loved amount of free time also.
Larry | Traveled in May
Wildlife galore. Our tour leader Gerardo Zamora can find any animal. Perfect guide. Luis Chinchilla is the very best and safest driver anywhere. Both great companions. The tour is very adventurous with precious free time as well. You really go to some of the greatest areas in CR. Hotels and lodges are unbeatable, and everything is taken care of. Insane pictures. Travel companions are like family. Unforgettable!
Anonymous | Traveled in May
Our Tour Guide cools not have been better. He made the holiday for us along with Christian , and excellent and safe driver. Costa Rica is an exceptional place to visit and I enjoyed almost every minute. The exception would be the so called " Chocolate Tour" which was not as expected , tedious and patronising. In total contrast to the excellent coffee tour. Hotels were very good . Wildlife fantastically varied and interesting. I would definitely recommend it to others
Joanne | Traveled in April
I absolutely loved this trip. Mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos are beautiful and very varied. I enjoyed every day of the itinerary. We saw so much wildlife close up on the Galapagos. Also loved Quito, Otavalo and Cotopaxi. The itinerary was varied and well organised. Our tour leader Roberto was fantastic - very knowledgeable and fun, sometimes tweaking the itinerary slightly to the group and what would work best. All of this contributed to a very fun, easygoing group.
Ellen | Traveled in April
Roberto was an excellent guide, passionate about his country, knowledgeable, considerate for our needs, took weather and other conditions into account and went above and beyond what was necessary. Thank you Roberto
Mike | Traveled in April
Costa Rica is a beautiful and fascinating country with extraordinary wildlife. The tour pace was busy but as described. Our guide, Diego, and driver, Ronny, looked after us well. Both helped spot and identify wildlife that, had we not been on the tour, we would have missed the majority of. The tour did include regular hotel moves and the only criticism we had was that one hotel was not as described in the final itinerary document. Thank you Explore, Ronny and especially Diego.
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