THE 10 BEST Self-guided & Independent Tours and Trips in South America 2025/2026

Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro (via Uruguay) Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro, journeying through the captivating landscapes of Uruguay. Discover vibrant cultures, stunning beaches, and iconic landmarks. Highlights include exploring Buenos Aires’ tango-filled streets, soaking in Montevideo’s rich history, and relaxing in Punta del Este’s luxurious resorts. End your trip basking in Rio’s energetic vibe and iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Perfect for travelers seeking diverse experiences, this South American expedition promises breathtaking sights and unparalleled memories.

Natural landmarks sightseeing

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Resort

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Sa

Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Colonia, Montevideo, Punta Del Este, Florianopolis

Duration16 days

From

USD 1,372

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Costa Rica Family Vacation

(6 reviews )

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Excellent guides, well planned, prompt and professionals

VolcanoesNational parksBeach

Tour Type

Private Tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Age Range

2-79 yrs

Operated in

English

Destinations

San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Nicoya

San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Nicoya Peninsula, La Fortuna

Duration6 days

From

USD 1,624

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Costa Rican Adventure

(2 reviews )

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Great tour. I highly recommend it!! Rainforest hikes and local guides were great. From boarding to departure, from Costa Rica experience was 5 stars!

Rainforest and jungle visits

Tour Type

Independent Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Villa

Age Range

8-99 yrs

Operated in

English

Destinations

San Jose, Manuel Antonio Nationa

San Jose, Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano, Arenal, Manuel Antonio

Duration8 days

From

USD 944

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San Jose to Mexico City Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable journey from San Jose to Mexico City with Bamba’s expertly crafted travel experience. Delight in pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant local markets on this scenic adventure. Savor authentic cuisine, explore lush jungles, and immerse yourself in rich cultures. Highlighting must-see spots, this tour promises a hands-on, culturally enriching experience perfect for discerning travelers. Dive into breathtaking cenotes, tour historic landmarks, and make unforgettable memories across Central America’s iconic landscapes.

Active and outdoor

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hostel, Home-stay, Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Mexico City, San Jose, Leon, El

Mexico City, San Jose, Leon, El Tunco, Copán Ruinas, Antigua, Panajachel, San Jorge La Laguna, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Lanquin, Flores, Belize City, Caye Caulker, Chetumal, Bacalar, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, Cancún, Merida, Palenque, San Cristobal De Las Casas, Liberia City, Oaxaca, Granada, Granada

Duration43 days

From

USD 3,183

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Four Days in Osa Peninsula: Corcovado National Park

(1 review )

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Visit the beautiful South Pacific coast of Costa Rica during this four-day, self-guided trip. This particular region of the country is home to more than three percent of Costa Rica's biodiversity. A shuttle transfer will be arranged from one of the following destinations on the first day of the tour: San Jose, Jaco Beach, Manuel Antonio Beach or Dominical Beach. Travel to Sierpe, where you will take a boat to your hotel located in Drake Bay. Explore Corcovado National Park, the main natural attraction of Osa Peninsula, and enjoy the rich biodiversity that the area has to offer. For your information, this national park has one of the largest population of scarlet macaws in Costa Rica. Enjoy a boat tour to Cano Island and snorkel around its water. This island is currently a natural reserve and a great destination for those interested in snorkeling and observing marine wildlife, but used to be a pre-Columbian cemetery in the past. Shuttle transfer is included on the last day of the trip to the following locations: San Jose, Jaco Beach, Manuel Antonio Beach and Dominical Beach. For more details, please go through the itinerary below.

Trekking and HikingSnorkeling

Tour Type

Private Tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Age Range

12-79 yrs

Operated in

English

Destinations

San Jose, Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park

Duration4 days

From

USD 1,088

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Super Sales

G Lodge Amazon - 4 Day Independent Adventure

(4 reviews )

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Enjoyable , well organised and informative

WildlifeExplorer

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Lodge

Age Range

2-100 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Puerto Maldonado, Amazon Peru, Tambopata

Duration4 days

From

USD 919

USD 891

Saving

USD 28

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Lima to Bogota Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Explore an unforgettable South American adventure from Lima to Bogota with Bamba Travel. Discover the cultural richness of Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, engaging in thrilling activities like hiking the Inca Trail, exploring the Amazon rainforest, and wandering through vibrant colonial cities. Immerse yourself in local traditions, savor exotic cuisine, and enjoy unique experiences such as visiting Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Islands. Perfect for intrepid travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion, this journey offers an unparalleled glimpse into these diverse and breathtaking countries.

Bicycle toursWalking tours

Tour Type

Group Tour

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Bogota, Lima, Huaraz, Trujillo

Bogota, Lima, Huaraz, Trujillo, Mancora, Guayaquil, Quito

Duration12 days

From

USD 1,100

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South America Self Guided Tours: Essential Costa Rica - Package With Guanacaste, Self-drive

15% OFF TODAY

Super Sales

Essential Costa Rica - Package With Guanacaste, Self-drive

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Uncover essential Costa Rica during this 10-day exotic adventure. Beginning and ending in the capital, San Jose, this self-drive tour offers you the chance to discover different aspects of this emblematic destination. Visit the most predominant natural areas of Costa Rica, including Arenal Volcano National Park, and the cloud forest of Monteverde. Enjoy an unforgettable excursion in Tortuguero, in a shared shuttle and boat, and spend precious time in mesmerising Tamarindo, one of Costa Rica’s most famous beaches, indulging in the fun surf town atmosphere and getting closer to the inspiring local culture and adventurous spirit.During the trip, keep an eye out for a variety of animals and don’t forget to mingle with the friendly locals for an all-round experience.

Active and outdoor

Tour Type

Private Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge

Age Range

6-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Alajuela, Tortuguero

San Jose, Alajuela, Tortuguero, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Tamarindo Beach

15% OFF TODAY

Duration10 days

From

USD 1,420

USD 1,207

Saving

USD 213

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Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro (via Iguazu & Florianopolis) Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from vibrant Buenos Aires to picturesque Rio de Janeiro, traversing breathtaking Iguazu Falls and stunning Florianopolis. This immersive journey offers unique experiences like exploring Argentina's bustling capital, marveling at the thundering Iguazu Falls, and soaking up Florianopolis' beautiful beaches. End your tour with the iconic sights of Rio, including Christ the Redeemer and Copacabana Beach. This South American escapade combines urban excitement, natural wonders, and coastal relaxation, promising an enriching travel experience.

City sightseeingWaterfalls

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Sa

Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Puerto Iguazu, Florianopolis, Curitiba

Duration15 days

From

USD 1,173

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Bogota to Quito Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Explore the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of South America on this unforgettable journey from Bogota to Quito. Dive into Colombia's rich history in Bogota, marvel at the breathtaking views in Medellin, and soak in the thermal baths of Santa Rosa. Continue with thrilling experiences in Ecuador, from the bustling markets of Otavalo to Quito's architectural wonders. This adventure promises unique experiences, including lush coffee plantations and the captivating beauty of the Andes mountains. Indulge in an exhilarating blend of nature, culture, and adventure!

AdventureActive and outdoor

Tour Type

Group Tour

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Quito, Bogota

Duration4 days

From

USD 749

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Santiago to Ushuaia (Ruta 40) Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable Patagonia adventure with Bamba’s epic journey from Santiago to Ushuaia. Traverse the legendary Ruta 40, experiencing breathtaking landscapes, majestic glaciers, and lush national parks. Hike in Torres del Paine, explore the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, and witness the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier. This expertly curated tour offers immersive cultural experiences and unparalleled natural beauty, making it perfect for adventurous travelers seeking the ultimate South American expedition. Book now for an extraordinary travel experience.

Active and outdoorAdventure

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Villa

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Santiago, Ushuaia, El Chalten, E

Santiago, Ushuaia, El Chalten, El Calafate, Pucon, Puerto Varas, San Carlos de Bariloche, Perito Moreno Glacier

Duration14 days

From

USD 1,562

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Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro (via Iguazu) Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro via the natural marvels of Iguazu with Bamba travel. Experience vibrant tango nights, awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, and the lively rhythm of Rio's Copacabana. Delight in cultural immersion, exquisite cuisine, and iconic landmarks as you traverse Argentina and Brazil. This travel pass promises unique experiences, from bustling city life to breathtaking natural wonders, perfect for adventurous explorers seeking the ultimate South American journey.

BeachWaterfalls

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Pa

Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Puerto Iguazu, Foz Do Iguacu, Sao Paulo

Duration14 days

From

USD 1,116

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South America Self Guided Tours: Costa Rica & Manuel Antonio 8 Days, Self-drive

15% OFF TODAY

Super Sales

Costa Rica & Manuel Antonio 8 Days, Self-drive

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Uncover Costa Rica during this eight-day exotic self-drive adventure. Beginning and ending in the capital, San Jose, this tour offers you the chance to discover different aspects of this emblematic destination. Spend precious time visiting the Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most stunning conservation areas on the planet.

Active and outdoor

Tour Type

Private Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Villa

Age Range

6-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Arenal, Arenal Volcano

San Jose, Arenal, Arenal Volcano National Park, Manuel Antonio

15% OFF TODAY

Duration8 days

From

USD 628

USD 534

Saving

USD 94

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Raft, Hike and Explore Costa Rica

(1 review )

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Costa Rica is a paradise for adventure lovers. In this trip you will get the opportunity to discover the volcanic terrain and rainforest of this Central American gem. This seven-days of adventure and nature tour is packed with thrilling adventure activities, such as whitewater rafting, volcano hiking, horseback riding, hot spring bathing, and zip-lining. There are many chances to see wildlife on the hike and, of course, experience the volcano activity first hand. This is an ideal trip package for young couples, groups of friends, adventure lovers, and active families traveling with teenagers. See the itinerary section for more details.

RaftingTrekking and Hiking

Tour Type

Independent Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Lodge

Age Range

12-79 yrs

Operated in

english, spanish

Destinations

San Jose, Monteverde Cloud Fores

San Jose, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Arenal Volcano, Arenal, Monteverde

Duration7 days

From

USD 1,399

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All South America Self-Guided Tours and Trips

Page 3 of 108 Self Guided Trips in South America with 106 Reviews

Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro (via Uruguay) Travel Pass

Costa Rica Family Vacation

Costa Rican Adventure

San Jose to Mexico City Travel Pass

Four Days in Osa Peninsula: Corcovado National Park

G Lodge Amazon - 4 Day Independent Adventure

Lima to Bogota Travel Pass

Essential Costa Rica - Package With Guanacaste, Self-drive

Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro (via Iguazu & Florianopolis) Travel Pass

Bogota to Quito Travel Pass

Santiago to Ushuaia (Ruta 40) Travel Pass

Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro (via Iguazu) Travel Pass

Costa Rica & Manuel Antonio 8 Days, Self-drive

Raft, Hike and Explore Costa Rica

Page 3 of 108 Self Guided Trips in South America with 106 Reviews

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

All South America Self-Guided Tours and Trips

Page 3 of 108 Self Guided Trips in South America with 106 Reviews

Page 3 of 108 Self Guided Trips in South America with 106 Reviews