Discover South America by Sea and River
South America offers a mesmerizing blend of vibrant cultures, natural wonders, and historic treasures. Whether you're sailing along its picturesque coastline or venturing deep into the Amazon River, cruising South America is a bucket-list experience for seasoned travelers and first-timers alike.
Top Ocean Cruise Ports in South America
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Famous for its beaches, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina – A city of tango, fine wine, and European elegance with a Latin twist.
- Valparaíso, Chile – A vibrant hillside city and gateway to Santiago and the Andes Mountains.
- Lima (Callao), Peru – Offering access to ancient Incan sites, museums, and top gastronomy.
- Punta Arenas, Chile – The southernmost port and launchpad to Patagonia and Antarctica.
Popular River Cruise Destinations
- Amazon River Cruises – Sail from Manaus, Brazil deep into the lush rainforest teeming with exotic wildlife and indigenous cultures.
- Peruvian Amazon – Explore Iquitos and Pacaya Samiria National Reserve on intimate expedition-style vessels.
- Paraná River Cruises – Lesser-known routes that reveal charming towns and dramatic waterfalls like Iguazú.
Top South America Cruise Itineraries
Whether you choose a luxury cruise, an expedition, or a more relaxed river cruise, here are some trending itineraries:
- 14-Day Patagonia & Chilean Fjords – From Buenos Aires to Santiago, visit remote ports and breathtaking glacial landscapes.
- Amazon Explorer Cruise – 7-night journeys from Manaus, rich with jungle treks, piranha fishing, and cultural immersion.
- South America Grand Voyage – 30+ day circumnavigation of the continent covering Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia.
- Galápagos & Ecuador River Adventure – Combine coastal and river cruising for unique biodiversity and historical depth.
Must-See Attractions on a South America Cruise
- Christ the Redeemer & Copacabana (Rio de Janeiro)
- Patagonian Glaciers & Torres del Paine (Chile)
- Buenos Aires Tango Shows & Recoleta Cemetery
- Amazonian Wildlife Excursions (Brazil & Peru)
- Machu Picchu Overland Excursions (from Lima)
Seasonal Tips & Travel Insights
The best time to cruise South America depends on your itinerary. December to March is ideal for the southern routes like Patagonia and Cape Horn, while the Amazon is navigable year-round. Galápagos cruises are excellent anytime, with January through May offering calmer seas.
Many major cruise lines operate in South America including Holland America, Princess, Celebrity, Viking, and regional lines like Hurtigruten and Aqua Expeditions. Whether you prefer luxury, adventure, or cultural immersion, there’s a South American cruise for you.
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