DESTINATION

South America

Buenos Aires pulses with tango, Patagonia stuns with glaciers the size of cities, and the Amazon envelops you in a world of green. South America is a place you don’t just visit on a cruise – you feel it long after you’ve returned home. Let a dedicated SmartCruiser expert guide you to the right voyage with group rates and exclusive amenities.

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A continent of contrasts, all from your ship’s deck

South America is a continent defined by extraordinary contrasts. Ancient civilizations stand alongside cosmopolitan cities, dense tropical rainforests give way to snow-capped Andean summits, and massive glaciers calve into crystalline fjords. Cruising this vast land lets you soak in all that diversity without the stress of juggling flights and hotel check-ins. With world-renowned cuisine from Argentine asado to Peruvian ceviche and rich cultural traditions woven across every port…

A breathtaking view of Machu Picchu's iconic mountain peak and terraced ruins framed through
A stunning aerial view of Machu Picchu, the iconic 15th-century Inca citadel perched on a mountain
A panoramic view of Machu Picchu, the iconic 15th-century Incan citadel nestled high in
A detailed view of an ornately carved stone statue set within an elaborate Baroque architectural

Awe-Inspiring Landscapes

Your ship becomes a front-row seat to some of the planet’s most dramatic scenery. One morning you’re sailing past thundering glaciers in the Chilean fjords; by afternoon, snow-capped Andean summits line the horizon. Some itineraries even take you deep into the Amazon itself.

Remarkable Wildlife

Penguins waddle along Patagonian shores in the thousands, and the Amazon canopy is alive with toucans and macaws. Head further south and you may spot humpback whales breaching near the coast, with sea lions lounging on the rocks nearby.

Culture, Cuisine & Rhythm

The food alone is worth the trip – think sizzling Argentine asado and fresh Brazilian churrasco served portside. Add in live tango performances and centuries of blended indigenous, European, and African heritage, and you start to understand why travelers keep coming back.

A continent of contrasts, all from your ship’s deck

This vast continent presents three primary cruising corridors, each offering a completely different feel and set of experiences. Our experienced advisors have sailed these waters and will pair you with the region that matches your travel style perfectly.

Aerial view of Lima's Miraflores district featuring a verdant clifftop park overlooking the Pacific

West Coast & Pacific

Key Ports: Valparaiso, Lima (Callao), Cartagena, Manta (Ecuador), Arica. Known For: Ancient Incan ruins, colonial architecture, Pacific coastline, Atacama Desert, Galapagos gateway. Ideal For: History buffs and those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. Duration: 10-18 nights.

The iconic Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor) in Lima's historic center features the stunning Cathedral

Patagonia & Chilean Fjords

Key Ports: Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, Puerto Montt, Castro (Chiloe), Cape Horn. Known For: Massive glaciers, dramatic fjords, penguin colonies, rugged wilderness, end-of-the-world scenery. Ideal For: Nature enthusiasts and bucket-list adventurers. Duration: 10-21 nights.

The stunning Cusco Cathedral stands majestically in Peru's Plaza de Armas, featuring distinctive

East Coast & Brazil

Key Ports: Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Salvador, Ilhabela, Buzios. Known For: Iconic skylines, vibrant nightlife, golden beaches, Carnival energy, world-class dining. Ideal For: Culture lovers and cosmopolitan travelers who enjoy city and beach combinations. Duration: 7-14 nights.

Compare South America Cruise Regions

Feature Alaska Hawaii New England & Canada
Typical Duration 7-14 nights 7-15 nights 5-12 nights
Main Departure Ports Seattle, Vancouver, Anchorage (Whittier/Seward) Honolulu, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Vancouver New York, Boston, Cape Liberty, Quebec City
Best For Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, bucket-list seekers Couples, families, tropical paradise seekers History buffs, foodies, autumn foliage fans
Highlights Glacier calving, whale watching, gold rush towns, rainforest hikes Volcanic craters, snorkeling, luaus, Na Pali Coast Fall colors, lobster bakes, French-Canadian heritage, lighthouses
Weathered stone structures of Inca ruins nestled in a mountainous landscape near Cusco, Peru

Let a dedicated expert chart your South America course.

South America is vast, and narrowing down the right itinerary can feel overwhelming – but that’s exactly what our cruise experts do best. Along the east coast, the cosmopolitan energy of Buenos Aires, the legendary beaches of Rio de Janeiro, and the charming waterfront of Montevideo all beckon. Venture south to Patagonia and you’ll watch massive glaciers calve into turquoise waters while rounding the legendary Cape Horn. The Pacific coast opens doors to Lima – your jumping-off point for Machu Picchu…

Beyond South America

Many South America voyages can be extended or paired with neighboring regions for an even grander adventure on the water.

  • Antarctica – The ultimate bucket-list add-on departing from Ushuaia, featuring penguin colonies and towering icebergs
  • Panama Canal – An iconic engineering wonder connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans
  • Galapagos Islands – Unparalleled wildlife encounters off the coast of Ecuador
  • Falkland Islands – Remote beauty, wartime history, and abundant wildlife at the edge of the world
A stunning high-altitude alpine lake nestled in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range

Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise – whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

When to Cruise South America

One detail many travelers overlook: South America sits in the Southern Hemisphere, so the seasons flip compared to North America. Our advisors factor this into every recommendation so your timing is spot-on. Peak Season (November – March): summer below the equator brings warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and prime conditions for Patagonia and Chilean fjord itineraries. Most lines position their ships here during these months, so availability is strongest…

A stunning high-altitude landscape in Peru's Cordillera Blanca mountain range, featuring emerald

Why Book with SmartCruiser

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Your South America Cruise Questions, Answered

Most South America sailings operate during the Southern Hemisphere summer, roughly November through March. That window gives you the warmest weather, the longest days, and the best access to Patagonia and the Chilean fjords. Brazil’s east coast peaks around Carnival in February, while northern ports such as Cartagena and the Amazon stay tropical all year. Your dedicated advisor will pinpoint the perfect departure date and watch your fare in the meantime.

A valid passport is required for every South America cruise. Visa rules vary by country and nationality, though U.S. citizens currently enjoy visa-free tourist access to most South American nations on standard cruise itineraries. Because requirements can shift, our team double-checks every detail well ahead of your sailing so there are no surprises at the port. It’s one more way your dedicated advisor keeps your trip running smoothly.

Cape Horn is the southernmost headland of South America, set on Hornos Island at the tip of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in Chile. It carries a legendary reputation among sailors as one of the most dramatic, wind-battered points on Earth. Many Patagonia and Chilean fjord itineraries include a scenic passage by Cape Horn, though shore landings depend on weather and sea conditions. Rounding the Horn is a genuine bucket-list moment your advisor can help you plan for.

You can. When your ship calls at Lima’s port of Callao, several lines offer multi-day overland excursions to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Many include an overnight in Cusco to help you adjust to the altitude. These tours are among the most sought-after add-ons in cruising, so we recommend securing your spot early. Your dedicated SmartCruiser advisor can handle the booking for you and lock in the best available rate.

Your packing list depends entirely on your itinerary. Patagonia and the Chilean fjords call for warm layers, a waterproof shell, and sturdy walking shoes – summer in the far south can still be cool. For Brazil and east coast ports, bring lightweight clothing, swimwear, and plenty of sun protection. Most ships host formal evenings, so pack appropriate attire too. Your advisor will send a customized packing guide based on your specific ports and sailing dates.

South America sailings typically run longer than Caribbean or Mediterranean voyages because of the distances between ports. East coast itineraries between Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro generally span 7-14 nights. Patagonia and Chilean fjord routes range from 10-21 nights, and full coast-to-coast or circumnavigation voyages can stretch to 30 nights or more. Your dedicated advisor will match the length to your schedule and budget, then keep watch on your fare after you book.

A wide range of lines sail these waters, including Holland America, Celebrity, Princess, Norwegian, Oceania, and Viking, along with luxury operators like Silversea, Regent Seven Seas, and Seabourn. Expedition specialists such as Ponant venture into more remote regions, including Antarctica. Each line offers a distinct onboard experience, and our cruise experts will pair you with the one that fits your style – while securing group rates and exclusive amenities along the way.

Because of the longer itineraries and greater distances, South America is often favored by travelers with a sailing or two behind them. That said, shorter east coast voyages between Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro make a wonderful introduction. If South America is calling and it’s your first cruise, our experienced advisors will craft an itinerary that feels comfortable and exciting in equal measure – with a dedicated point of contact from booking through your return home.

This continent delivers some of the most memorable port experiences anywhere. Standouts include ascending to Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio, exploring the tango-rich La Boca district of Buenos Aires, trekking Patagonian glaciers, meeting penguin colonies near Ushuaia, journeying to Machu Picchu from Lima, wandering colonial Cartagena, and tasting wines in Chile’s Casablanca Valley. Your dedicated advisor will match the best options to your itinerary and pace.

You can, and it’s one of the most extraordinary pairings in cruising. Several lines link South America with Antarctica, usually sailing from Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. You’ll cross the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula, where towering icebergs, breaching whales, lounging seals, and vast penguin colonies await. These voyages typically run 18-30+ nights. Ask your dedicated SmartCruiser expert about exclusive group rates and onboard credits on these once-in-a-lifetime sailings.

Browse South America Cruise Destinations

Explore our South America cruise regions below and start picturing your next voyage. Each corridor has its own personality – and our experienced advisors are ready to help you choose the one that fits your travel style.

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