South America Cruises

South America Cruises

South America's natural features also include the longest mountain range in the world, dozens of active volcanoes, alpine lakes at amazing elevations, the gargantuan Iguacu Falls, and the magnificence of the Amazon River and rain forest. All of this surrounds modern coastal cities, some of which rival the sophistication of Europe, and ancient ruins from some of the most incredible lost civilizations in the world. South America is home to so many natural wonders, you'll want to come back again and again.

South America Cruise Highlights

Adventure-seekers are more than welcome in South America. Visitors from around the world travel to this continent to hike Machu Picchu and the Andes mountains, view the awe-inspiring Iguacu Falls, and canoe through the Amazonian waterways. Other must-sees? The enormous Christ Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; the "March of the Penguins" in the Falkland Islands; and Cartagena, Colombia's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Popular South America Cruise Ports

South America is a huge continent with a wide variety of cultures, landscapes and cities to explore. A popular South American itinerary travels around Cape Horn, between Valparaiso and Buenos Aires and around the tip of the continent. The West Coast of South America is frequently visited too, where cruisers can hike Machu Picchu in Peru or view the intriguing Nazca Lines. These are a few popular ports of call:

• Montevideo: The capital of and largest city in Uruguay, Montevideo is a charming town that dates back to 1724. It is home to a bustling arts and culture scene, which includes theater, music and the arts. Visit Colonia del Sacramento, the oldest town in Uruguay, or watch a lively tango performance while in Montevideo.
• Callao / Lima: Lima is a magical blend of old and new, with a well-preserved colonial center co-existing with cosmopolitan high-rises and one of the largest populations in South America. Visit the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, go horseback riding, or indulge in delicious Peruvian delights like Ceviche and Lomo Saltado.
• Quito: Ecuador's capital was built atop an ancient Incan city, and has preserved much of its history from the 16th and 17th centuries. To see a spectacular view of the city, take a sky tram up to the top of Cruz Loma. Wander Old Town and stop into the ornate La Compania de Jesus cathedral.

When is the Best Time to Go to South America?

Because of South America's location in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reverse those above the equator. The summer cruising season falls between November and April, with many sailings taking place between January and March. Most itineraries are at least 14 nights in length, and one or more additional days should be added for travel time on either end of the cruise.

What Cruise Lines Go to South America?

South America is a popular destination for cruise travel, as it is home to so many historic, large and exciting coastal cities. Many South American cruises embark and debark in Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro and Valparaiso, as well as from Barbados:

• Celebrity Cruises: Choose from 28 ports of call on a Celebrity Cruise to South America - the line travels to Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Uruguay and more, departing from Buenos Aires, Argentina; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Valparaiso, Chile. Many itineraries feature overnight stays in select cities, so you don't have to rush to see all of the natural wonders each destination has to offer.
• Holland America: Visit Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and even Antarctica on one of Holland America's South America itineraries. Some cruises sail down the Amazon, while others bring travelers to Rio de Janeiro during Carnival - both bucket list items in their own right.
• Cunard Line: For the truly savvy cruiser, Cunard's Discover South America cruise is an unmatched experience, sailing for more than 75 nights around the continent and leaving from Southampton. Ports of call are located in the Caribbean, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Ecuador and more. Cunard also offers shorter, 15-30 night cruises that transit the Panama Canal.