Skip to main content
General

Top AAA Vacations in South America: Quintessential Cultural Experiences

Updated: June 14, 2024

With some of the world’s most jaw-dropping destinations, travel to South America is guaranteed to be a life-changing experience like no other. Captivating cultural wonders, exquisite historic sites and awe-inspiring adventures await travelers looking to take advantage of all this unbelievable continent has to offer.

With unbelievable and unique packages designed to create experiences unlike any other, AAA can help make booking this dream vacation easier than ever. With stunning destinations throughout South America, these AAA Vacations guided tours are led by experienced local professionals and are truly the best way to see the marvels and mysteries held in these incredible regions.

If you’re looking for an authentic exploration of these remarkable cultures, here are a few of the world-class vacation packages highly recommended to all AAA members.

Treasures of The Incas

·Price: Starting from $6,885

·Operator: Luxury Gold

·Length: 11 nights Accommodation

A beautiful expedition trekking through Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu and more, this in-depth look at the treasures found in these wonderful and historic places. Highlighting the long-standing traditions of the Incan Empire still found and upheld throughout Peru, this guided tour will have your sampling authentic classic dishes, wandering through mystifying colonial streets in Cusco and taking in the richness and wonder that is Machu Picchu that will leave you spellbound.

With a distinct focus on the enduring gastronomic heritage found in Peru, this tour is perfect for food and history lovers alike. Guests are even able to experience a Pachamanca Feast in the beloved Sacred Valley, an important tradition that has played a significant role in Andean culture for generations.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to visit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, experiencing the dress, lifestyle and culture that has endured unbelievably isolated from the rest of the world since the time of the Inca.

Classic South America

·Price: Starting from $8,756

·Operator: Luxury Gold

·Length: 11 nights Accommodation

Art, cuisine and astonishing natural wonders are just a few of the experiences you’ll have the opportunity to explore on this world-class 12-day South American adventure. Taking an in-depth look at the true Latin American way of life, this exceptional vacation package takes guests through the luxury and opulence of some of the continent's most stunning cities.

Travelers will start their tour off in the beautiful streets of Santiago. Expert guides will take you through the city to see exquisite architecture, cultural highlights and a mouthwatering lunch filled with local delights. Of course, with Chili widely recognized as one of the world’s most exceptional wine countries, a stop at one of the region's boutique local wineries is an absolute must.

Next, you will explore the magnificence of Buenos Aires. Filled with captivating music, dancing throughout the streets and some of the best barbecue in the world, this wonderful city will leave you feeling sublime. Iguassu Falls is another incredible stop on this once-in-a-lifetime tour, allowing guests to get an up-close look at this awesome UNESCO World Heritage Site before setting off to complete the holiday in the fun-filled streets of Rio De Janeiro.

Quito and the Galapagos

·Price: Starting from $7,999

·Operator: Alexander + Roberts

·Length: 8 nights Accommodation

Truly an experience unlike any other, this exceptional 9-day, 8-night vacation brings guests to see one of the world’s most unique destinations. Guaranteed to be a small group, with never more than 16 guests, travelers can rest assured that they will be treated to a high-end opportunity that exceeds their every expectation.

The adventure begins in the historic heart of Quito, where guests will be provided with luxury accommodations in one of the city’s most exclusive boutique hotels. Whilst here, travelers will be able to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site at their leisure, taking in the exquisite local architecture and beautiful markets lining the streets. Experienced guides will take you through the city to discover some of the city’s most significant landmarks before you sit back and enjoy a cooking demonstration of some of Eqcaudor’s most beloved classic dishes.

A short flight will have you quickly settle into your stateroom aboard the Galapagos cruiser, La Pinta. Here, professional naturalists will guide you through seeing some of the island’s most incredible creatures and jaw-dropping natural sites before you stop by the Charles Darwin Research Station where guests can get a first-hand look at the remarkable conservation efforts taking place here.

Easter Island and Patagonia

·Price: Starting from $9,499

·Operator: Alexander + Roberts

·Length: 11 nights Accommodation

Patagonia is known worldwide as one of the most vibrant, visually stunning and magnificent destinations imaginable and this 12-day tour guarantees you will explore every part of it.

After a refreshing stay in Santiago, guests will first fly to Easter Island, where they will be escorted through incredible archeological sites filled with ancient stone dwellings and a ceremonial village that played a crucial role throughout local history. A guided tour through Rapa Nui National Park will give you an in-depth look at the area’s 1,000-year-old history whilst you explore historic quarries where ancient moai were carved.

After another relaxing stop in the streets of Santiago, guests will finally make their way to the wonder of Patagonia, which will undoubtedly exceed your every expectation. You will take in unbelievable scenic views whilst spending your days hiking, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, boating or even exploring the mind-blowing Serrano Glacier. If you’re looking for a holiday that will completely change the way you look at the world around you, this is it.

Grand South America

·Price: Starting from $13,997

·Operator: Luxury Gold

·Length: 22 nights Accommodation

The dream South American vacation of a lifetime is to be had with the Grand South America tour package. Designed to give travelers an in-depth look at the natural beauty, vibrant civilizations and unbelievable history throughout these exquisite regions, this incredible 23-day tour will bring you through the marvels of Machu Picchu to the beauty of Sugarloaf Mountain and everything in between.

Guests will begin their adventure in the fascinating city of Lima, where they will learn exactly why it is widely considered the City of Kings. This is a city meant the be explored, filled with enchanting luxuries, captivating historic sites and trendy bohemian districts.

Wandering your way through the Sacred Valley is yet another highlight of this world-class vacation. Here, travelers can learn the history of local weaving techniques, participate in ancient traditional rituals and even enjoy a delectable authentic meal prepared as it has been for centuries.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time? Then you’ll love this tour’s stop through Colonial Cusco. Here, you’ll be able to visit the inspiring “Temple of the Sun” shop in the San Blas Artisan Center and enjoy a candlelit dinner prepared by one of the region’s most respected and renowned chefs. Luxurious accommodations await you before heading off to even more of the continent’s incredible destinations.

With so many astonishing sites and captivating cultural experiences, no wonder South America is one of the world’s most beloved vacation destinations. Luckily, AAA has exciting world-class tour packages that will make planning your dream vacation a breeze. Contact one of AAA’s expert holiday professionals today and start planning the trip of a lifetime today.

More Articles

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

BACK TO TOP