South America Vacations

Traveling to countries like Peru, Chile, Argentina and Brazil, our South America tours will introduce you to ancient civilizations, dazzling cities and time-honored crafts. See lush rain forests, fjords and towering waterfalls, or observe feathered macaws or penguin colonies. Many itineraries are designed as regional discoveries that visit the major cities in several countries, while others focus on one country in depth. Several of our trips utilize multiple modes of transportation, such as motorcoach travel or intra-tour flights. You also can hop from island to island in the Galapagos in a comfortable cruise ship or sail down the mighty Amazon River.

A tour director accompanies the group, speaking about the native cultures, traditions, history and sights along the way. Learn about the ancient Incas in Peru, where Machu Picchu -- the Lost City of the Incas -- is a prime attraction on tours. In Argentina, you might meet a gaucho, a South American cowboy and symbol of the country s national pride. If you schedule your trip accordingly, you can check out the festivities at Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

* Key to Quality Ratings

These vacations are classified according to the quality of accommodations, the number of included amenities and activities, and the level of service delivered.

= Budget vacations that typically range from $50 to $200 per person, per day, plus airfare.

= First class vacations that typically range from $80 to $350 per person, per day, plus airfare.

= Deluxe vacations that typically range from $200 to $650 per person, per day, plus airfare.