Pack your bags and get ready to bounce through South America on this 12-day ride full of wild nature, epic nights, and laid-back lake vibes. Start in Santiago and hop an overnight bus to Pucón, where volcanoes, hot springs, and endless adventure await. Cruise through Chile’s dreamy Lake District with a chill stop in Puerto Varas, then cross into Argentina to explore the outdoorsy paradise of Bariloche. Hike, bike, or just soak it all in — your pace, your way. Wrap things up in buzzing Buenos Aires with tango, steak, and one last big night out. This is South America in full colour, and you’re living it large.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hostel, Hotel
Age Range
18-39 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Pucon, P
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Pucon, Puerto Varas, San Carlos de Bariloche
GROUP TOUR (FOR AGES 18 - 55): Set out on the ultimate South American journey with this 21 day tour, packed with bucket-list experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling adventures! Take in Medellin and Bogota, trek through the Andes to the legendary Machu Picchu, take a boat ride on Lake Titicaca, and explore the vibrant streets of La Paz. Cross the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats in a 4x4, marvel at flamingo-filled lagoons, and soak in high-altitude hot springs. Finally, chase adrenaline in the Atacama Desert, from cycling in the Lunar Valley to stargazing under one of the clearest night skies on Earth.
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Camping, Guest House, Hostel, Hotel, Sleeper Bus
Age Range
18-55 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Medellin, Santiago, Machu Picchu
Medellin, Santiago, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro De Atacama, Santiago, Salento, Cali, Bogota, Inca Trail
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Outdoor lovers will be in their element on this tour through some of South America's most outstanding landscapes. Chile is a land of extremes, showcasing barren desert moonscapes, dramatic granite spires and verdant farmland peppered with emerald lakes. We'll explore it all on this trip from the Atacama down to the mountains of Torres del Paine.
Atacama Desert - Walk in the Moon Valley and on the Salar de Atacama
Puerto Varas - Hike in Chile's Lake District, in the shadow of the Osorno Volcano
Torres del Paine - Discover the glacial lakes and mountain ranges of one of the most impressive locations on earth
Why not extend your trip? - Take a short stay on the mysterious Easter Island (trip code: EIE)
National parksAdventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Santiago, Torres Del Paine, Puer
Santiago, Torres Del Paine, Puerto Natales, Valparaiso, Atacama Desert, Toconao, El Tatio, Calama, Osorno Volcano, Punta Arenas
If you love big landscapes, deserts, rock formations, volcanoes, geysers, remoteness and views that go on forever, then this is the trip for you. This was combined with very friendly people, local culture and good wine, making for one of the best trips I've ever had.
This was my first trip with Explore. (All the other members of the group had travelled multiple times with them). I would say the trip exceeded my expectations in every respect. Judging by the comments of the rest of the group, it was one of the best many of them had been on too. I have taken away memories that will last forever and met some wonderful people along the way.
There were six travellers in the group (all solo travellers) as well as Andres our guide, local guides and drivers. This was the first trip run on a new itinerary or at least one which Explore has not sold for a number of years. So in that respect our group were the guinea-pigs for the trip. I felt the group got on very well. I would say six was a good group size for the minibuses. It gave us room to spread out with our bags and snooze if needed on the longer journeys.
Itinerary:
The itinerary covers a lot of ground in a short space of time so is definitely full-on. However, overall, I thought it was well-paced with well-timed rest periods. Given that this was a new itinerary, there are a couple of "tweaks" I would make (mentioned below). However, they are minor changes only to what I found to be a well-rounded and balanced trip.
HIghlights for me included the Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia. I loved the desert, lagoons, volcanoes, flamingoes, the salt hotel and of course, our meal with our wonderful Bolivian guides - which I'll never forget. Another highlight was the sunset and moonrise over the Atacama Desert near San Pedro. I felt the trip was a gift that kept on giving. Just when you had one experience which you thought could not be topped, along came another one. The trip was cleverly planned in that sense.
In terms of amendments, I would suggest the following:
HIgh altitude is a feature of this trip and perhaps needs to be emphasised and explained a little more fully in the trip notes so that travellers can take a view. However, for me, any discomfort was more than compensated for by the remoteness and beauty of the landscapes we saw.
I particularly loved Bolivia and perhaps Explore could consider adding that another day to this leg of the trip. This would allow more time to get to know this fantastic country and its people but would also allow more time to acclimatise.
We had a wonderful day in the wine region of Cafayate. Both wine and food were delicious and plentiful. However, I think we all felt the number of tours and tastings should be reduced a little to allow us to relax into one wine tour and the meal without worrying about time.
Guiding:
Andres was our Explore guide and I cannot speak highly enough of him. Most of the group had travelled extensively over the years with Explore and said that he was one of the best guides they had ever had. Andres was excellent in every respect - professional, knowledgeable, organised but relaxed and very person-centred, attending well to the different needs of the group. The trip ran very smoothly and to time. Andres paid close attention to detail, making small changes to the itinerary as needed, He found good places to eat, and timed visits to avoid any crowds in particularly popular places. As far as I am aware, there was one small logistical glitch during the whole trip. This was beyond Andres' control but he took it in his stride, dealt with it and it did not affect the group. Definitely 5* for Andres.
The local guides and drivers in each country were very friendly and efficient. I would say the guides in Argentina and Bolivia were particularly knowledgeable. The warmth and kindness shown to us was lovely. I would single out Wilbur in Bolivia for particular praise.
Accommodation:
Before the trip, I did not have particularly high expectations of the hotels, thinking that location would take priority over hotel standard and that budget hotels would be used to keep costs down. To a certain extent this proved to be the case. I would say in most places the standard was 3*. I found all of them were perfectly acceptable although some had variable hot water and wifi which is only to be expected really given the region. All hotels were very friendly and in a very good location. Some hotels stood out as having more character and better service than others. The Salt Hotel (Laguna Salada) on the Uyuni flats was something truly special. The stunning location, the hotel design and the friendliness of the staff there were something I will never forget. The Hotel Los Flamencos at the Laguna Hedionda was graded as "simple" and we warned to take warm sleepwear as it can get cold at night. However, I found the hotel to be warm and characterful and again, the location was stunning. Standing outside the hotel (albeit at about -5 degrees Celsius), watching the flamingos on the lagoon and the sun come up over the volcanoes behind was something truly memorable.
San Pedro de Atacama was the most touristy place we visited and I would say the hotel there reflected that. It felt a bit more generic than the others, although the barman was excellent and served some knockout Pisco sours.
Overall, I would give this trip 5* without hesitation. Unforgettable - in the best possible way. Any quibbles are very minor ones to me. I would highly recommend.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, San Pedro, Santiag
Buenos Aires, San Pedro, Santiago, Salta, Cafayate, Purmamarca, Tilcara, Tupiza, Uyuni, Incahuasi, San Pedro De Atacama
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with this 38-day journey through five incredible South American countries — a dream for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and nightlife seekers alike. Ride the rails through Peru’s stunning Urubamba Valley to the iconic Machu Picchu, dive into the vibrant culture of Lake Titicaca, and marvel at the surreal landscapes of Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni and Chile’s Valley of the Moon in the Atacama Desert. Explore colorful Valparaíso, find thrills in the adventure haven of Pucón, and relax in the lakeside charm of Bariloche. From the tango halls of Buenos Aires to the samba beats of Rio de Janeiro, and the thundering majesty of Iguassu Falls, every moment of this trip will leave you in awe and hungry for more.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, La Paz, Su
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, La Paz, Sucre, Potosi, Uyuni, Salt Flats, San Pedro De Atacama, Cusco, Santiago, Valparaiso, Pucon, San Carlos de Bariloche, Buenos Aires, Foz Do Iguacu, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Puno
22% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Ready to dive into the history, culture, and breathtaking wilderness of South America? Spend 11 unforgettable days exploring Bolivia and Chile, uncovering iconic highlights and hidden gems. Marvel at the surreal salt flats of the Salar de Uyuni, wander through the otherworldly desert landscapes of the Atacama Plateau, and venture off the beaten path to experience the best of this diverse region. With just the right mix of guided adventures and free time, this journey is the perfect way to truly connect with two extraordinary destinations.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Santiago, La Paz, Sucre, Potosi
Santiago, La Paz, Sucre, Potosi, Uyuni, Salt Flats, San Pedro De Atacama
22% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, where South America’s most iconic cities and landscapes come alive. Stroll the surreal salt flats of Salar de Uyuni and lose yourself in the otherworldly Atacama Desert. Wander the colourful streets of coastal Valparaíso, chase adrenaline in Pucón’s adventure-sport playground, and experience authentic gaucho life on a ranch near charming Bariloche. Cap it all off in the vibrant cosmopolis of Buenos Aires, where tango, culture, and culinary delights await. Fall head over heels for the region’s diverse landscapes, warm people, and mouthwatering cuisine — and leave already dreaming of your next adventure.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, La Paz, Santiago
Buenos Aires, La Paz, Santiago, Valparaiso, Pucon, San Carlos de Bariloche, Sucre, Potosi, Uyuni, Salt Flats, San Pedro De Atacama
22% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
On this 11-day group tour, explore Buenos Aires’ vibrant districts and iconic landmarks, enjoy a tango show, and marvel at the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate. Experience the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park, including breathtaking viewpoints and the Cueva del Milodon Natural Monument. The tour includes a scenic boat ride through the Patagonian fjords and a hike to the impressive Serrano Glacier. The adventure ends in Santiago with guided sightseeing of the Chilean capital.
City sightseeingNational parks
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Santiago
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Santiago, El Calafate, Puerto Natales
On this 11-day group tour, explore Buenos Aires’ vibrant districts and iconic landmarks, enjoy a tango show, and marvel at the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate. Experience the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park, including breathtaking viewpoints and the Cueva del Milodon Natural Monument. The tour includes a scenic boat ride through the Patagonian fjords and a hike to the impressive Serrano Glacier. The adventure ends in Santiago with guided sightseeing of the Chilean capital.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Santiago
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Santiago, El Calafate, Perito Moreno Glacier, Puerto Natales
Discover Santiago at your own pace with our Hop On Hop Off tour! Explore the city's main attractions, its vibrant neighborhoods and historical monuments. Enjoy the flexibility to hop on and off at any of the 10 designated stops, including Cerro San Cristóbal, Plaza de Armas and Bellavista. With informative audio guides and comfortable buses, this tour offers a convenient and enriching way to experience the best of Santiago
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Immerse yourself in the natural scenery of Argentina and Chile’s most breathtaking landscapes. From cruising along the Argentino lake, taking in views of the jaw dropping Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, to exploring the grandeur of Torres del Paine National Park, before finishing in the buzzing metropolis of Santiago de Chile.
Explorer
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Santiago
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Santiago, El Calafate, Torres Del Paine
A 4-day trip to get to know the best of Santiago de Chile and its surroundings where you will be surprised with its incredible landscapes. Visit the most important places in the city, taste excellent wine in the world-famous Concha y Toro vineyard, and explore the Pacific Ocean while visiting Viña del Mar and the colorful houses of Valparaíso. You will be amazed by the urban culture and more in this cosmopolitan city
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This 12 days package takes you through Argentina & Chile's highlights. You’ll start your tour in Argentina's never-sleeping capital city of Buenos Aires before heading up south to the Patagonia, where you will discover the cities of Bariloche and Puerto Varas. From there, you’ll fly to Santiago de Chile and be marveled by the capital of Chile
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Santiago, San Carlos de Bariloch
Santiago, San Carlos de Bariloche, Puerto Varas, Frutillar, Puerto Montt, Buenos Aires
The Peru and Bolivia trip was absolutely amazing! The Inca trail was a challenge but I am so glad I did it. The salt flats in Bolivia was beautiful this trip really had everything! Mountains, volcanoes, desert. Honestly the best Contiki I have been on. The included meals on the tour did not disappoint
I recommend every one to do it!
our trip manager was honestly the best!
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Santiago, Lima, Avaroa National
Santiago, Lima, Avaroa National Reserve, La Paz, Jungle Lodge, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes
