Call to book: We're open 0203 393 1003

OPENING TIMES

SALES
Monday to Friday:
Saturday and Sunday:
CUSTOMER SERVICES
Monday to Friday:
Saturday:
Sunday:

LET US INSPIRE YOU...

Speak to one of our experts

CALL US 0203 393 1003

South America Cruises

Discover South America

South America is a melting pot of cultures that are inspired by passion, food, and nature. Boasting stunning coastlines, exotic wildlife, and a rich heritage dating back to ancient civilisations, this part of the world is perfect for those who want a taste of life and adventure. From the soaring Andes Mountains that run through seven countries to one of the new wonders of the world Machu Picchu, which is perched atop the mountain ranges and the expansive stretch of the Amazon, this region is truly brimming with great wonders for the eyes to marvel. 

Be wonderstruck by the seaside charm of  Rio de Janeiro, which combines a beautiful mix of beaches, mountain peaks, dense forests, and lively atmosphere. Tango down the pulsating and cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires and soak up the urban excitement as you explore the sprawling metropolis. If you’re an old soul with a penchant for history, explore the colonial core set in Santiago’s heart. Idyllically positioned on the edge of the Strait of Magellan and the bottom of the Americas, Punta Arenas gives you a glimpse of the magical feeling of journeying to the ends of the Earth. A South America cruise promises a holiday of a lifetime, as you sail around and see the best of it all.

Featured South America Cruise Deals

  • Bespoke Itineraries
  • Flights Included
  • Exclusive dining and drinks packages

South America Cruise Highlights

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

A slew of cultural landmarks and electrifying festivals await you in Rio De Janeiro. Formerly the capital of Brazil, the city is steeped with historical heritage that mirrors its glorious colonial past. Climb the summit of Mount Corcovado where the colossal 98-feet-tall figure, Christ the Redeemer, sits and watches over the city. Meanwhile, art aficionados can visit the Museum of Modern Art, showcasing a permanent collection of contemporary art. The Museum of Tomorrow, a groundbreaking science museum set inside a state-of-the-art building briefly transports guests into the future. You can also participate in the annual Rio Carnival, a two-day festivity featuring parade floats and samba performances, and is argued to be the world's largest festival.

Santiago, Chile

Santiago is Chile’s capital and largest city, nestled in a valley set against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains and the Chilean Coast Range. Striking sceneries envelope this capital, ranging from the vibrant cityscape to the ever-present Andes, so you’ll always find something to admire at every turn. Plaza de Armas is one of the best starting points for your Santiago excursion. It’s the city’s main square, housing some of the most eye-catching architectural gems in Santiago, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago and the Central Post Office. South America’s tallest building, Gran Torre Santiago, can also be found here. At the top of the high-rise building lies an observation deck overlooking the Santiago skyline, the Andes, as well as the distant coastal range.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

An oasis for nature lovers, Galápagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago where thriving wildlife find refuge in, dwelling almost 2,000 rare species that aren’t found anywhere else in the world. Follow the steps of Charles Darwin and see for yourself what sparked his radical and groundbreaking theory of evolution. This cluster of islands is a living museum of natural history that reveals enchanting natural spectacles, where different species of birds rule the roost and nature has been left to take its course. Dragon Hill, a small hill in Santa Cruz, offers a one-of-a-kind encounter with the nesting land iguanas and pretty pink flamingos floating on salty lagoons.

History and Culture

History and Culture

South America is a culturally diverse continent, with a fusion of the indigenous and foreign influences from Europe, Africa, and Asia. Its colonial history essentially shaped its cultural landscape today. Although many of the South American countries were established after the Spanish and Portuguese colonisation, there have been several native tribes and civilisations existing in the continent long before, and cultural fragments of their era survived the test of time despite almost being completely obliterated. This dynamic cultural mix is widely evident in the region’s architecture, culinary, religion, music, language, and traditions. 

Culture vultures will be delighted to immerse themselves in these rewarding local experiences and cultural highlights: 

 

  • Watch a tango performance in Buenos Aires, which is inherently tied to Argentinian culture — catch people dancing to the beat in theatres, milongas,  and even on the streets.

  • The port city of Manta in Ecuador affords visitors unprecedented access to ancient Manta culture.

  • Engage and live with the locals on Lake Titicaca, where the sense of tight-woven community is strong and indigenous lifestyles are well-maintained.

  • Attend the largest festival in the world, Rio Carnival, and get lost in the explosion of art, culture, music, and dance.

Things To Do in South America

Explore Brazil’s largest city, São Paulo

São Paulo has a stunning cityscape blending modern and colonial buildings in one beautiful setting. Gracing the city’s skyline is the Martinelli Building, the first skyscraper built in Brazil with 28 floors. This big city is blessed with ancient archeological sites, museums, cultural folk performances, and rainforest rivers with exotic wildlife. While here, experience the city’s social scene and sample local delicacies in Jardin district. Breathe fresh air while walking around Ibirapuera Park, a landscaped green space with well-manicured gardens, trails, and playgrounds – a perfect spot to relax and pass the time at a leisurely pace. Once you feel recharged, visit the action-packed Avenida Paulista, a foliage-dense thoroughfare in the city centre lined with sidewalk cafes and shops. It’s also home to the São Paulo Museum of Art.

Take a historical tour to Buenos Aires’ main square

Whether you’re seeking for a thrilling urban adventure, down to tapping your feet for some tango, or just to stroll along the historic plazas, Buenos Aires is a city of infinite possibilities. As you wander around, you’ll find that there’s something to attract everyone – the impressive combinations of architecture, full-bodied Argentinian wine, the Latin zest of the locals, and the fascinating local arts dotting the city. Plaza de Mayo is one of the capital’s treasures and is home to the presidential palace, Casa Rosada. The main public square was a host to many notable events in history, including the time when the former first lady Evita Perón created history by leading fervent crowds to petition for her husband’s release from prison. 

Sample the Peruvian cuisine in Lima

Sampling Lima's finest culinary delights is one of the unmissable experiences in the capital of Peru. The Incan gastronomy is the core of Peruvian cuisine, fused with the styles of cooking of Spanish, Chinese, Italian, French, African, and Japanese. Peruvian meals are mainly about spices and rich flavours. One of the most popular dishes is Ceviche, a fresh raw fish marinated or “cold-cooked” in lime juice with salt, onion, and hot chilli, and is typically served as an appetiser. Another Peruvian classic that’s as well-liked as Ceviche is Lomo Saltado, strips of soy-soaked beef stir-fried and mixed with multiple spices. Pisco Sour is a cocktail that’s usually paired with this fare for a nice finish.

Natural Wonders

Natural Wonders

A seafaring adventure along the coasts of South America unfolds endless natural scenery that’ll take your breath away. From the largest waterfall system in the world to towering icy glaciers; arid deserts to lush rainforests; sky-high mountain ranges to a group of unspoiled islands – South America is a diverse continent that offers a wealth of natural wonders wherever you are. Here’s a peek at the most outstanding natural offerings across the region’s landscapes. 

 

  • Iguazú Falls, straddling three South American countries, comprises 275 cascades that rival the world-famous Niagara Falls as the waters magnificently plunge into a 230-foot-tall canyon and create a dramatic display of spray and rainbows.

  • Andes Mountain Ranges encompass varied terrains across seven countries, with the mysterious historical landmark Machu Picchu crowning its summit in Peru.

  • Travel back to the beginning of time as you hike through lava tunnels that were formed millions of years ago in the Galapagos Islands, also dubbed as the ‘Enchanted Isles’ for all good reasons.

  • The Earth’s lungs, Amazon Forest, is the world’s largest tropical rainforest teeming with greenery and wildlife, and crossed by its iconic namesake river.

  • Chile’s Atacama Desert is the world’s driest nonpolar desert yet still bursting with life and beauty. With soil that’s similar to Mars, it’s the epitome of grandeur that’s out of this world.

South America Cruises FAQs

What cruise lines offer South America sailings?

Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Azamara are among the mainstream cruise lines that operate in South America. Several luxury cruise lines also offer sailings to less-travelled destinations, such as Silversea’s Silver Origin that’s specifically designed to explore the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.

When is the best time to cruise South America?

The most ideal time to cruise South America depends on the itinerary, destination, and activities of your choice. Generally, December through March are the best months to sail the region for pleasant weather conditions and to catch the holiday celebrations.

What countries are in South America?

South America consists of twelve sovereign states, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela, as well as three non-sovereign dependent territories, Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, and French Guiana.

Which is the best cruise destination to visit in South America?

Some popular cruise destinations across the states and territories of South America are Buenos Aires, Lima (Callao), Rio de Janeiro, and Santiago (San Antonio). Select itineraries also include sailings to Antarctica and Galapagos Islands.

Why cruise to South America?

To experience South America in all its glory, there is no better way than by sea. A continent of contrasts, home to many of the world’s best landscapes, sailing through the coasts of this region will make you realise that not many places could compete with its natural beauty. Regardless of the route you choose to take, this is a more rugged cruise experience, where your outdoor adventures, from paddling canoes up a tiny Amazonian tributary to hiking out to a peninsula to observe penguins, will be the most memorable experiences of the trip.

Let us inspire you

WHY BOOK WITH LOVEITBOOKIT

LoveitBookit are proud to be accredited as one of the leading, independent cruise agencies in the UK. Our reliable, CLIA-recognised cruise experts are here to help you plan your dream cruise holiday and support you through every step of your journey.

Our passion lies in curating unparalleled cruise experiences for our customers, ensuring you book your dream holiday with absolute confidence. As well as being part of the Travel Trust Association and a 5-times winner of the Platinum Trusted Service Award from Feefo, you can rest assured that when you book a LoveitBookit cruise escape, your holiday is fully ATOL and Financially Protected.

BESPOKE PACKAGES

We handpick cruise itineraries and package them with incredible, added-value inclusions to create the perfect tailor-made holiday experience for our customers.

TRAVEL EXPERTS

Holiday planning made easy! Our dedicated team boasts unrivalled cruise industry and destination knowledge and are committed to delivering exceptional customer service.

AS SEEN ON TV

For holiday inspiration and cruise line insights, you can watch our hottest cruise escapes come to life on your television screen daily with Cruise TV by LoveitBookit.

LET US INSPIRE YOU

Get the hottest deals and latest cruise packages