Cheap flights to South America

South America embodies a soul that’s found nowhere else in the world. And each country has its own traditions and cultures; from the melancholic Argentinean tango to the ancient Inca ruins of Bolivia.

The two largest countries in the continent, Brazil and Argentina, are perhaps the most diverse and most travelers to South America choose to combine a trip to both countries. Brazil is a blend of diverse cultures: Portuguese, native Indian, African, European, Middle Eastern and Asian all living in this wild and exciting land. While in Argentina its European influences dominate its art, architecture, literature and lifestyle. But what both countries do have in common is the Iguazú Falls, the spectacular 275 cascading waterfalls which are taller than Niagara Falls and possibly one of the most unforgettable sights in the world.    

North of Argentina is Bolivia, a country nestled between the Andes and the Amazon rainforests. Because of its isolation, the country has retained the ancient traditions of its ancestors, making it a fascinating and mysterious place to visit. Bolivia’s neighbor, Peru, is just as captivating; its history dates back to the Inca Empire with Machu Picchu, its most illustrious symbol. The countries in the northern end of South America including Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela might not be as renowned for their ancient wonders as the other countries but what they do have is a natural beauty – spectacular landscapes, tropical rainforests, and pristine beaches – that makes them inimitable.

South America climate

South America can be split into four climatic zones: tropical, dry, cold and temperate. Depending on which area of the continent you’re visiting, the elevation and weather factors including rain and wind contribute to the climate variations, making it unpredictable and erratic in some areas.

Best Time to Fly to South America

Argentina and Brazil, both in the Southern Hemisphere, can be visited all year round but most people prefer to travel during the peak season – mid December to early March – when the weather is hot and humid. But if you’d rather avoid paying higher prices for South America flights and accommodations, then the best time to go is in winter between the months of June and October. Chile, also in the Southern Hemisphere, has climactic variations from the north to south. The north can be visited at any time of the year while central and southern Chile should be avoided from June to September when snowfall can get heavy.

The Andean countries including Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia and Peru have two distinct seasons: wet and dry, and depending on the altitude and proximity to the equator, each country’s peak season will differ slightly.

Bolivia has the most unpredictable weather in South America, thanks to its topography and altitude. Generally the best time to visit is during the dry season between May and October. Peru is another country with complicated weather due to its high elevation and close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The best time to visit is summer, from January to March when days are hot and humid.

What is the best way to travel around South America?

Flying to South America is only the first step. Once you land, you will probably wonder how to get around. Broadly speaking, you will find that public transit options, whether in the form of city buses or local taxicabs, will provide the most common, inexpensive, and reliable forms of transportation. It’s a good idea to compare different flights to South America as it can sometimes be less expensive and even less complicated to fly into one country and then ride a bus into a neighboring one; for example, flying to Puerto Iguazu in Argentina and then riding the bus across the border into nearby Brazil.

What are some things to do in South America?

South America flight deals are as numerous as the attractions awaiting visitors to the continent. From Peru’s mountain fortress of Machu Pichu to the stunning biodiversity of Brazil’s Amazon rainforest, there’s something to capture anyone’s heart in South America. Maybe you’ll meet a penguin in the Tierra del Fuego of Chile and Argentina or celebrate Carnival in Rio. Whatever brings you to South America, you’ll never want to leave.

How long is the flight to South America?

Flights to South America can vary widely depending on your departure and arrival cities. For example, you can book flights to South America departing from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) and arriving at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, Colombia, which last only about 6h 30min with a layover in Orlando, Florida. However, cheap flights to South America’s Bogotá, departing directly from Orlando are also available, which last only about 4h. South America airfare from George Bush International Airport (IAH) in Houston, Texas, is also inexpensive. You can book flights to South America, such as Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito, Ecuador, from Houston, which fly directly in about 5h 15min.

What do I need to do before my flight to South America?

Once you have your cheap flight to South America booked, it’s time to make sure that you’re ready for your adventure. You will want to make sure that your passport is current, up to date, and valid for at least six months past the time you’ll be arriving in South America. Next, it’s important to check to see if there are any medical considerations necessary before travel. For example, if you will be in Panama or Brazil, it may be prudent to bring along some anti-malarial pills. Seasoned travelers will know that it’s also important to confer with your credit card companies and bank to let them know that you’ll be traveling and to ask about any international transfer or ATM fees. Lastly, check with your cell phone carrier to see if your plan allows for international calls while outside the United States.