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

Accommodations

BudgetSimple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Mid-rangeComfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
PremiumUpscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.

Colorful Costa Rica

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

This tour will show you the extraordinary wonders of Costa Rica. Begin your journey in San Jose, the heart of this Central American country surrounded by evergreen mountains and lush valleys. Visit Tortuguero National Park to uncover the natural wealth of Costa Rica, home to breathtaking beaches and vibrant green sea turtles. This is a wonderful place to spot local wildlife and birds. Next, you will drive to Arenal, situated in a truly unspoiled setting where looming volcanoes and teeming rainforests await. Climb the Arenal Volcano while keeping an eye out for some of the most famous animals in Costa Rica. Explore the Cloud Forest as you take one step closer to Mother Nature. Finally, you will travel to Tamarindo, one of the most famous beaches in Costa Rica. End your journey in this extraordinary surf town as you experience the bustling atmosphere and immerse yourself in the local culture while channeling your adventurous spirit.

Rainforest and jungle visits

Tour Type

Independent Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge

Age Range

8-99 yrs

Operated in

English

Destinations

San Jose, Tortuguero National Pa

San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Tamarindo Beach, Arenal Volcano, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde, Tamarindo

Duration10 days

From

USD 1,679

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South America Self Guided Tours: Fantasy On Beaches And Volcanoes

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Fantasy On Beaches And Volcanoes

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Enjoy the highlights of Costa Rica on this seven-day itinerary, including wonderful rainforest and volcano, tropical jungles and pristine beaches. This is a country of great natural beauty and every destination has something unique to offer. Whether you are watching the Arenal volcano whilst bathing in hot springs or relaxing on the charming beaches of Tamarindo, Costa Rica really is a nature lover's paradise.

Active and outdoorBeach

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Resort

Age Range

6-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Arenal Volcano Nationa

San Jose, Arenal Volcano National Park, Tamarindo

15% OFF TODAY

Duration7 days

From

USD 1,067

USD 907

Saving

USD 160

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La Paz to Santiago Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Discover an unforgettable adventure from La Paz to Santiago, exploring the heart of South America with unparalleled experiences. Traverse Bolivia, Peru, and Chile, diving into the vibrant cultures of each destination. This travel pass immerses you in unique activities like gazing at the Uyuni Salt Flats, exploring the Atacama Desert, and vibrant city vibes. Perfect for backpackers and culture enthusiasts seeking an authentic journey, this tour promises unforgettable memories and breathtaking landscapes. Book now for an epic South American odyssey!

Active and outdoorVolcanoes

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Hostel, Lodge, Villa

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Santiago, La Paz, San Pedro De A

Santiago, La Paz, San Pedro De Atacama, La Serena, Valparaiso, Sucre, Potosi, Uyuni, Agencha, Polques

Duration17 days

From

USD 1,257

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Costa Rica Circuit Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Costa Rica’s pristine landscapes with this travel pass. Discover stunning waterfalls, lush rainforests, and vibrant wildlife, while exploring iconic spots like Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest. Experience thrilling zip-lining, soothing hot springs, and guided nature walks, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Embrace Costa Rica’s biodiversity with this eco-friendly journey, tailored for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Book now for an ultimate Pura Vida experience!

VolcanoesNational parks

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Resort

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Puerto Viejo de Talama

San Jose, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, La Fortuna, Tortuguero

Duration12 days

From

USD 1,595

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Mountains and Glaciers: El Calafate and Torres del Paine

(4 reviews )

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

My trip to Patagonia was one of the best that I have ever done. The landscapes and the people were something that I would never forget. El Calafate was absolutely beautiful, full of lakes and glaciers. Perito Moreno Glacier is unique and a must if you are travelling to Argentina. I also booked the full day tour to El Chalten, which is very nice but I would have preferred to stay for a few nights in the village to do some of the treks in the area but I did not have many days. I stayed at Hotel Mirador del Lago which has amazing views of Argentino lake. Torres del Paine National Park was equally amazing. Our guide Lucas was incredible and very knowledgeable. Hotel Altiplanico was so beautiful. 100% recommend this tour.

Trekking and HikingExplorer

Tour Type

Independent Tour

Accommodation

Camping, Hotel

Age Range

1-99 yrs

Operated in

english, spanish

Destinations

Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park, Puerto Natales, Perito Moreno Glacier, El Calafate, Punta Arenas

Duration7 days

From

USD 1,980

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Rio de Janeiro to Santiago Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Rio de Janeiro to Santiago, exploring South America’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. Dive into lively Rio’s beaches, marvel at Iguazu Falls’ natural wonders, and revel in Buenos Aires’ rich history. Experience Chile’s scenic beauty in Colchagua Valley and the energetic atmosphere of Santiago. Perfect for thrill-seekers and cultural enthusiasts, enjoy unique excursions including wine tasting and tango dancing lessons. Discover the essence of South America with this curated travel experience.

Natural landmarks sightseeing

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Santiago, Rio de Janeiro, Floria

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

Duration21 days

From

USD 1,779

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Colombia Circuit (from Bogota) Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Discover Colombia’s hidden gems with an unforgettable travel adventure starting in vibrant Bogota. Immerse yourself in local culture, explore stunning landscapes, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Salt Cathedral and Coffee Triangle. Experience the rich biodiversity of Tayrona National Park and the pristine beaches of the Caribbean coast. This all-encompassing journey offers exclusive experiences like coffee farm tours, cultural encounters, and breathtaking natural scenery, perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive and authentic Colombia experience.

BeachCoffee and tea tours

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Bogota, Medellin, Manizales, Hac

Bogota, Medellin, Manizales, Hacienda Venecia Coffe Farm, Santa Marta, Cartagena

Duration14 days

From

USD 1,452

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Ushuaia & El Calafate Tour

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Join us on this six-day, group tour that is the perfect combination of two amazing destinations in Argentina: Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, and El Calafate, a town near the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. We will pick you up on arrival in Ushuaia. Visit Tierra del Fuego National Park and see Bahia Lapataia as well as Lake Roca among other highlights before returning to the city to enjoy a Beagle Channel navigation by boat. See Bird´s Island, Sea Lion´s Island and Les Eclareirs Lighthouse. Head for El Calafate, home to the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentino Lake and Los Glaciares National Park. See Perito Moreno and explore Los Glaciares before its time to head home. Please note that domestic flights and national park entrance fees are not included in the tour price. For more details, please go through the itinerary below.

National parks

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Age Range

11-99 yrs

Operated in

English

Destinations

El Calafate, Ushuaia, Patagonia

El Calafate, Ushuaia, Patagonia, Perito Moreno Glacier

Duration6 days

From

USD 939

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South America Self Guided Tours: Volcanoes, Nature And Caribbean, Self-drive

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Volcanoes, Nature And Caribbean, Self-drive

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Explore Costa Rica´s spectacular nature, imposing volcanoes, and the pristine Caribbean beaches in this round-trip adventure that begins and ends in the capital city, San Jose. Enjoy nine days of memorable experiences, walking around Arenal Volcano National Park, discovering Tortuguero National Park, and relaxing on the Southern Caribbean Coast. Get to know a different side of Costa Rica, whose local population boasts Afro-Caribbean heritage. Explore the pristine beaches, hike through the emblematic rainforests, and admire the reef system during an unforgettable snorkelling tour. This journey is sure to impress, offering you memories to last a lifetime.

Active and outdoor

Tour Type

Private Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge

Age Range

6-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Alajuela, Arenal, Aren

San Jose, Alajuela, Arenal, Arenal Volcano National Park, Tortuguero, Tortuguero National Park, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Cahuita National Park

15% OFF TODAY

Duration9 days

From

USD 1,353

USD 1,150

Saving

USD 203

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G Lodge Amazon - 5 Day Independent Adventure

4.7

(3 reviews )

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Overall a great experience in the jungle. The accommodation was very clean with no insects in the room - my biggest worry in advance. The excursions are great and depending on the weather adventurous. But that is whag I was looking for when booking this trip!

WildlifeExplorer

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Lodge

Age Range

2-100 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Puerto Maldonado, Amazon Peru, Tambopata

Duration5 days

From

USD 1,219

USD 1,182

Saving

USD 37

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Costa Rica Self-Drive Adventure

(5 reviews )

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

I spent 13 days in Costa Rica and did a self-drive everywhere from Liberia to San Jose while hitting places such as Rincon, Arenal, Monteverde, Samara Beach, and Dominical to name a few and I was able to do pretty much everything I wanted to do in Costa Rica thanks to Alex's brilliant trip planning! On top of that, the hotels that were booked for me were all top notch and there were plenty of opportunities to have lunch and dinner no matter where I stayed. If you plan to stay in Costa Rica anytime soon, I highly recommend having Alex to plan your trip with you!

VolcanoesTrekking and Hiking

Tour Type

Independent Tour

Accommodation

Eco Lodge, Hotel, Lodge

Age Range

12-65 yrs

Operated in

English

Destinations

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biologic

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Samara Beach, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Tenorio, Guanacaste, Bijagua, Rio Celeste, Monteverde, Playa Carrillo, Carrillo Beach, Liberia City

Duration10 days

From

USD 1,680

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San Jose to Antigua Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable journey from San Jose to Antigua with a travel pass designed for adventure lovers. This route offers rich cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and thrilling activities. Explore iconic attractions like Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the picturesque colonial streets of Antigua. Enjoy zip-lining, hot springs, and guided tours through lush rainforests. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and groups seeking immersive adventures in Central America's most stunning destinations.

Adventure

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Home-stay, Hostel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Antigua, San Jorge La

San Jose, Antigua, San Jorge La Laguna, Ometepe, San Jorge, Granada, Leon, El Tunco, Copán Ruinas, Manuel Antonio National Park, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Liberia City, San Juan Del Sur

Duration21 days

From

USD 1,632

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Cancun to San Jose Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Cancun to San Jose, uncovering the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Central America. Experience thrilling activities like exploring ancient Mayan ruins, snorkeling in crystal-clear Caribbean waters, and hiking lush rainforests. Delight in local cuisine, lively nightlife, and charming colonial towns. This meticulously crafted travel itinerary offers unique experiences and seamless transportation, ensuring a hassle-free, exhilarating journey perfect for culture enthusiasts and natural beauty seekers. Discover the hidden gems of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Costa Rica.

Trekking and HikingZip lining

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hostel, Home-stay, Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Cancún, Belize City, S

San Jose, Cancún, Belize City, San Ignacio, Flores, Rio Dulce, Lanquin, Panajachel, San Jorge La Laguna, Playa Del Carmen, Antigua, Copán Ruinas, El Tunco, Leon, Granada, San Jorge, Ometepe, San Juan Del Sur, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Tulum, Bacalar, Chetumal, Caye Caulker

Duration39 days

From

USD 2,656

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South America Self Guided Tours: Essential Costa Rica - Package With Manuel Antonio National Park, Self-drive

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Essential Costa Rica - Package With Manuel Antonio National Park, 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 tour offers you the chance to discover different aspects of this emblematic destination. Enjoy an unforgettable excursion in Tortuguero, in a shared shuttle and boat and then visit the most predominant natural areas of Costa Rica, including the Arenal Volcano National Park, and the cloud forest of Monteverde. Spend precious time visiting the Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most stunning conservation areas on the planet. During the trip, keep an eye out for a variety of animals, bugs, as well as plants and don’t forget to mingle with the friendly locals for a versatile experience.

Active and outdoor

Tour Type

Private Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Lodge, Eco Lodge, Villa

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, Pacific Coast

15% OFF TODAY

Duration10 days

From

USD 1,552

USD 1,319

Saving

USD 233

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All South America Self-Guided Tours and Trips

Page 4 of 108 Self Guided Trips in South America with 106 Reviews

Colorful Costa Rica

Fantasy On Beaches And Volcanoes

La Paz to Santiago Travel Pass

Costa Rica Circuit Travel Pass

Mountains and Glaciers: El Calafate and Torres del Paine

Rio de Janeiro to Santiago Travel Pass

Colombia Circuit (from Bogota) Travel Pass

Ushuaia & El Calafate Tour

Volcanoes, Nature And Caribbean, Self-drive

G Lodge Amazon - 5 Day Independent Adventure

Costa Rica Self-Drive Adventure

San Jose to Antigua Travel Pass

Cancun to San Jose Travel Pass

Essential Costa Rica - Package With Manuel Antonio National Park, Self-drive

Page 4 of 108 Self Guided Trips in South America with 106 Reviews

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All South America Self-Guided Tours and Trips

Page 4 of 108 Self Guided Trips in South America with 106 Reviews

Page 4 of 108 Self Guided Trips in South America with 106 Reviews