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South America

Vibrant rhythms, rich passions and ancient wonders

Vibrant rhythms, rich passions and ancient wonders

With rainforests that provide 20% of the world’s oxygen and remnants from ancient Incan cities, South America is a continent swimming in unbelievable beauty. Think world-famous waterfalls, drool-inducing cuisine and a feverish passion for soccer that pulses across all its cities. The fiestas are loud, the dancing’s dramatic and nobody goes to bed before sunrise.

South America is one mixed-bag of diverse treasures - you’ll find famed vineyards and ruby-red Malbec in Argentina, alpacas in Machu Picchu and Christ the Redeemer in Rio. In Colombia, play tejo, a game that tests your throwing accuracy. Bolivia offers you an insight into the still practiced art of witchcraft and across many countries, swap your English Breakfast tea for a cup of ‘mate tea’. If you can get to a ranch and see a famed South American cowboy (referred to as a gaucho in the local lingo), you’ll be seriously impressed at their horsemanship. And one of the best meals on the planet has to be an asado - a very delicious BBQ type meal. Embrace the change in language and the later nights. Take your time when out and about and enjoy the slower pace of life.

Embrace the change in language and the later nights. Take your time when out and about and enjoy the slower pace of life. Connect with one of our South America specialists to create your dream holiday, today!

Flight time.

Flying from Auckland to Santiago offers a direct service, meaning your flight time is just around 11 hours non-stop.

Best time to go.

For South America, the best time to visit the Southern Cone is during their summer (November to March). Brazil is best to visit during the dry season (May to September). Peru and Bolivia is best during the dry season (May to October). Ecuador and Galapagos Islands is best from June to November.

Time difference.

South America spans several time zones, but most countries are around 15 to 17 hours behind New Zealand Standard Time (NZST, GMT +12).

Our South America travel blogs

On a Solo'ish adventure

Got an inner urge to get out and explore, but none of your travel buddies can make it happen? One big misconception is that you must be single if you’re travelling alone.

12 days in Argentina - Our popular itinerary

House of Travel Calder and Lawson’s Loris Sowman offers up an ideal itinerary that samples the best of South America

6 destinations our consultants can't stop talking about

From Albania to Iceland here are the 6 must-visit destinations our consultants are raving about.

Be spellbound by Iguazu Falls

South America

Walk the Inca Trail and see the sun rise over Machu Picchu

Machu Piccu

Hidden gems you'll love in the Americas

When planning a great American adventure, the sheer size of both continents can be overwhelming. To help, we suggest the next places you’ll love, based on better known places you might have already enjoyed!

Lets go somewhere different

Here are five destinations we think everyone should experience in their lifetime.

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Our South America specialists

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Nigel Bennett

House of Travel High Street Lanes, Christchurch CBD

I love and get joy from creating amazing holidays and experiences for people.

I have travelled extensively all around the world so wherever you want to go or whatever you want to do I can assist you with reaching your dream holiday.

Nigel

Mike (Buzz) Thomson

House of Travel Hobsonville

With 20 years experience in the travel industry both here and abroad I use this knowledge every day to create unforgettable journeys for my clients.

I'd love to hear what your plans are and together we'll create a well organised memorable trip.

Mike

Linley Pearce

House of Travel The Square

I have travelled to many countries & experienced many forms of travel - plane, train, river boat, coach, helicopter, longtail boat ....... I love to travel to old cities as I love buildings & architecture, food, wine, people watching & taking photos.

Travel constantly challenges me, I especially love interesting flight itineraries. I have over 35 yrs experience in this complex and dynamic industry, I can use my knowledge to work with you to create your journey no matter the destination.

Linley