destination
Guess Who's Turning 50 Next Year?You're Invited to a BIG Celebration!View 50th Anniversary Treks

With its energetic cities, cultural treasures and outrageous natural beauty, South America is an unbeatable destination that’s superbly suited to outdoor adventuring.

From the formidable spine of the Andes and the rugged peaks of Patagonia to lush river deltas, vast grassy plains, arid coastal deserts, pristine beaches, Wild West canyons and thundering waterfalls—it’s hard to imagine a place with a wider variety of dramatic environments to discover.

Experience the grand temples and terraces of Machu Picchu, hike among the majestic wilderness of Patagonia and explore the twisting tributaries of the Amazon River basin. Explore the ancient ruins of powerful civilisations, encounter exotic wildlife and engage with local cultures by meeting remote indigenous communities.

Visit the thundering Iguazu Falls, see the surreal geysers and salt flats of the Atacama Desert, or take an unforgettable safari through the Pantanal, the world's largest tropical wetland. Discover the famous wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, or visit mysterious Easter Island, one of Earth’s most isolated and intriguing places.

Soak up incredible culture and nightlife in Buenos Aires, Rio, Bogotá and Santiago; and tour the cobblestoned streets and handsome colonial architecture of Cusco, Quito, Cartagena and Salvador.

Join us as we explore the highlights and hidden gems of this extraordinary continent!

 
 

Find your South America trip


 

Leaders in Responsible Travel

Responsible Travel practice is at the heart of every program that we offer in South America. When you book one of our adventures you’re supporting true sustainability in the protection of local communities, natural environments and wildlife.

World Firsts

We proudly pioneered the first commercial Inca Rivers Trek in Peru (2004), showcasing a remote trail to the North of Machu Picchu; The Great Patagonia Traverse (2012), through untouched National Parks in Chile and Argentina; and the Venezuela Lost World trek (2001), amongst the great Tepui Mountains and spectacular Angel Falls.

Innovative Active Itineraries

We do things a little differently. We have something for everyone, from gentle walks to challenging climbs and vehicle based journeys as well as voyages. No matter what, all will get you off the tourist track to revel in natural environments, interact with remote communities and enjoy the camaraderie of your small group of fellow travellers. We can also customise your very own ‘ultimate’ itinerary.

Great Value

Quality services at the best prices make our adventures great value for money. Having essential items like meals, sightseeing and entry fees included in the trip cost allows you to better budget for your big adventure, and eliminates the risk of having to carry large sums of money around with you on your journey.

Expert Guides

Our guides in the field are the real keys to our success, making your experiences exceptional. From Simon Yates, author of ‘Touching the Void’, to Javier Bello, one of the most experienced guides in the Andes—our team of expert guides mean the difference between a good and an excellent adventure. It’s their knowledge and passion for the continent’s landscapes and best held secret places, restaurants and vantage points that will take your travels to a whole new level.


A porter on the Inca Trail&#160;-&#160;<i>Photo:&#160;Sarah Higgins</i>

South America is home to one of the world's most important natural environments - the Amazon Basin, often referred to as the lungs of the world. The exotic continent boasts a multitude of diverse natural wonders including the Andes Mountains, Galapagos Islands, Torres Del Paine and the Atacama Desert in addition to its disctinct cultural diversity, including indigneous Inca people, European influenced cultures and the 'gauchos' of the Pampas, making it no secret that South America has much to protect. In order to minimise our impact on the natural environment, we practice the '7 Principals of Leave No Trace' and support local economies by employing guides and staff from local communities. Our Animal Welfare Code of Conduct, Child Welfare Code of Conduct and Porter Welfare Policy ensure the well-being of animals and children we encounter on our adventures, as well as the mountain porters we employ on our treks.


Hotels

In cities and large towns you will be accommodated in good 3 to 4 star properties that are generally centrally located, atmospheric, and reliable and where we have seen a good track record with traveller satisfaction.

Lodges

In Patagonia and the Amazon we use a variety of quality lodges. They are not luxury lodges but what they do offer is very comfortable accommodation which is well maintained and with many facilities. Generally, the trip notes that we have prepared for each trip will give you details of the types of properties we use on any one itinerary.

Eco campsites

On some itineraries in Patagonia we use an eco camp located within the national park. A tribute to the Kaweskar people, the sustainable camp provides a ‘back to nature’ experience but spares nothing when it comes to comfort. The geodesic domes are perfectly suited to the Patagonian climate featuring organic elements, wooden floors and windows in the ceiling to stargaze at night. Meals are shared in one of the three interconnected community domes.

Camping

On many of our trips we will erect campsites in wilderness terrains. These feature two person tents, a dining tent and a portable toilet tent when permanent amenities are not available or their presence is ecologically unsound. The spacious tents, most of which you can stand up in, are well ventilated with insect nets.

Mountain huts

On some occasions we use mountain huts, also referred to as refugios. You can expect these to be basic but comfortable and from time to time the sleeping arrangements are dormitory style – in keeping with the true mountain spirit!



A custom made itinerary is the ultimate way to see the world how YOU want. They are created especially for you, giving you complete freedom to choose what you want to see, where you want to go and when you want to do it. If you love our current itineraries but want to customise it privately as a couple, a group of friends, family, club, business or school, you have the freedom to add or remove as many elements as you like to suit the interests of your group. Alternatively, you can start with a blank canvas and create a new and exciting itinerary from scratch! Our well-travelled consultants can give you firsthand suggestions and eliminate any uncertainty with trip planning to ensure you maximise the quality of your experience and get truly off the beaten track. Simply email, phone or visit us to start planning your dream adventure.


Trip reviews


Salcantay Trek to Machu Picchu - The Best Alternative to the Inca Trail
Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips