The Best Places to Visit in South and Central America in Summer

Planning a trip to South or Central America in the summer? Give tango dancing a whirl, trace ancient ruins and spot endemic wildlife on these TRIPS by Culture Trip and other small-group adventures.

Elle Redman

17 Jan 2022

With rainforests, mountains, lakes, beaches and pulsating cities in abundance, South and Central America are worth visiting at any time of year – but there are advantages to visiting in summer. In the Galápagos Islands, the cooler, drier weather means wildlife is particularly abundant, while in Peru, summer is the prime window of opportunity for hiking on clear, sunny days. On these adventures – bookable with Culture Trip – you can travel to those destinations and many others in South and Central America, for a hassle-free summer vacation.

1 . The Galápagos Islands, to spot endemic wildlife – TRIPS by Culture Trip

Animals take centre stage on the Galápagos Islands – one of the most biodiverse destinations in the world – and your wildlife-spotting chances are maximized by visiting in the summer months. Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, whose theory of evolution was inspired by his findings on the islands, on this five-day adventure from TRIPS by Culture Trip. You can sleep in a safari-style tent among giant tortoises in El Chato nature reserve, snorkel with sea turtles at Kicker Rock and swim with sea lions at Punta Carola beach. If you head to the uninhabited island of South Plaza, you might be lucky enough to spot the Galápagos hybrid iguana while hiking through cactus forests – it’s the only place on earth where this species exists.

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Next available from27 Aug 2022

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2 . Ecuador, for hiking, whitewater rafting and chocolate tasting – TRIPS by Culture Trip

Sitting directly on the equator, Ecuador is a nation of glacier-capped volcanoes, majestic waterfalls and thick jungle. There aren’t distinct seasons through the year, but the climate varies significantly by altitude. Here you’ll see some of the most impressive architecture in South America – particularly in Quito, where this TRIPS by Culture Trip adventure begins. You’ll explore the capital’s major landmarks and attend an Ecuadorian cooking masterclass before hiking and horse riding in Cotopaxi National Park, which is dominated by the 5,897m (19,347ft) Cotopaxi volcano. Hike around the emerald green Quilotoa crater lake, cycle the Baños Waterfall Route and go whitewater rafting in the Amazon rainforest, before wrapping up your trip with a soak in hot springs in Papallacta.

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Next available from20 Aug 2022

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3 . Peru, for Inca ruins, vibrant cities and mountain lakes – by Intrepid Travel

With idyllic beaches, remote mountain villages, tranquil lakes and cities brimming with beautifully preserved architectural gems, Peru is one of the most captivating countries to visit in South America. Ever wanted to see one of the seven wonders of the world? Well, Peru is home to the mysterious citadel of Machu Picchu, which you’ll get the chance to visit on this 15-day adventure. Enjoy a guided tour around the Inca ruins, glide across Lake Titicaca (the world’s highest navigable body of water) and learn about the rural Peruvian way of life on a private tour of the Sacred Valley. You’ll also visit the chocolate museum in Cusco and have an opportunity to sample the national dish of ceviche in the capital, Lima.

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Next available from11 Jun 2022

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4 . Brazil and Argentina, for tango dancing, waterfalls and beaches – by Intrepid Travel

Travel to South America in summer to experience Brazil and Argentina in all their contrasting glory. Both countries boast a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, which you can visit on this seven-day tour. You’ll be swept up in the magic of Rio de Janeiro as you marvel at Christ the Redeemer, unwind on the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and soak up the lively ambience of the Santa Teresa neighborhood. In Buenos Aires, take a tango lesson at a classic conventillo and enjoy a traditional asado feast with a local family. A trip here wouldn’t be complete, however, without visiting the Iguazu Falls – one of South America’s most striking natural sights. You’ll be able to view them from both the Argentinian and Brazilian side, and, if you fancy, take a helicopter ride to see them from above.

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Next available from31 May 2022

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