South America is an enormous continent and its biodiversity and abundance of wildlife reflects its geographic stature.
From the soaring and iconic condor to the elusive puma and tapir, from colourful macaws to the tame wildlife of Galapagos.
We work with local communities and the best guides to bring you the best tours.
Most trips are open to anyone with an interest in the natural world and no visit to South America is complete without spending time looking for its wonderful fauna.
Galapagos is a world famous wildlife attraction, with marine, bird and wildlife surpassed nowhere in the world.
South America also counts as home to the Amazon rainforest. This huge forest is like no other on the earth, replete with monkeys, insects and birds, and many species still being discovered.
In the mountains, there is the iconic condor to look for as well as big cats like jaguars, and the shy spectacled bear for the lucky ones.
These bears also live in cloud forests, a haven for birdwatchers and hikers in the cool mists of these fertile mountain-side forests.
And that’s before we mention Antarctica, or the whales that migrate along the coasts, the llamas, armadillos and more.
South America is a nature lover’s paradise.
A perfectly organized Ecuador adventure crowned by an unforgettable Galapagos cruise filled with wildlife, culture, and ocean bliss.
A day of contrasts and joy, from tired legs to hummingbirds and heartfelt encounters with local families, making this Colombian trek a truly rewarding and memorable experience.
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Get prepared for your wildlife holiday to South America.
Below you’ll find a range of travel tips, advice and information that will help you get ready to explore the wilds.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
Year-round, weather conditions are hot and humid and there is always the risk of rain
There is a ‘dry season’ in Tambopata and Manu between May and October. The average daytime high temperature is between 25°C and 34°C and the average nighttime low is between 16°C and 22°C. Heavy downpours typically occur every few days.
Around 80% of annual average rainfall – approx 2,000 mm in Manu and Tambopata and 1,400 mm in Iquitos – occurs in the wet season Nov-April.
On rare occasions, between May and September, cold fronts from Argentina – ‘friajes’ – can sweep into southwest Amazonia and push temperatures down to 9° C. (Friajes usually last between 1 and 3 days).
Good kit is vital for every trip.
Book with Andean Trails and get 15% off Páramo’s fantastic ethical and high performance outdoor gear.
You can also read our blog about a day in the Amazon rainforest of Peru.
Please note: Guests should arrive in clothes which they do not mind getting slightly dirty or wet, and should wear footwear that is suitable to walk on a rainforest trail. Sun cream, insect repellent, hat and waterproof clothing should be carried in hand luggage and kept accessible for the journey to the lodge.
You may want to keep your binoculars and camera handy, too.
All bedding, toilet paper etc. is provided at the lodge (or camp, if camping).
