Best Time to Visit South America

South America is a great travel destination all year round. The best time to visit South America depends on the seasonal climate of the country you’re visiting, the activities you’re interested in, and the larger crowds and higher costs during peak tourist seasons.

In contrast to North America, the seasons of the southern hemisphere of South America (Argentina, Chile, Patagonia) are reversed with the summer months falling between November and February with winters between June and August. The northern hemisphere of South America (Ecuador, Northern Brazil, Colombia) follows seasonal changes more consistently with North America.

For example, the best time to visit Patagonia in the south is between November and February where harsh winters during June through September will close down most local operations. The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season between May and October with blue skies and warmer temperatures. Visitors will want to avoid the colder rainy season between January and March.

Clearly, South America weather plays an important role in planning a trip to South America. The type of activities and excursions you’re planning are also a primary factor in deciding when and where to visit. Check out our top 15 South America tours for custom vacation ideas from our travel experts. Each tour includes recommendations of the best activities and excursions with each destination.

Rebecca Deering

My Recommendation

“In general, the best time to visit South America is in October and November as the springtime weather conditions make it comfortable in the cities, beaches, and mountains and nature’s beauty is on full display. Flowers are blooming, wildlife is much more active, and seasonal crowds and travel costs are fairly moderate.”

Rebecca Deering

South America Travel Expert

Best Places to Visit in South America – December, January, February

tourists visiting machu picchu peru on a sunny day

Summer in South America is from December to February. During this time, the continent enjoys warm temperatures, long days, and excellent conditions in the evenings for nighttime exploration.

In the summer season, travelers and locals alike enjoy the coastal towns for their fantastic beaches, ideal for lounging and sunbathing. Fernando de Noronha and Jericoacoara are two of our favorite northern beaches in Brazil.

In addition to the great weather, some of the world’s largest festivals take place in South America during the summer, such as Carnival in Brazil. In major metropolises, events from outdoor concerts, boutique markets, and even parades are a regular occurrence.

For the more adventurous and nature-oriented, the sunnier weather and longer days make destinations like Patagonia an ideal time to see some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders. However, in the Andean regions, like Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, summer is often rainy, ushering in their wet season.

Best Time to Visit Brazil

Brazil is largely tropical, leaving travelers sunkissed, relaxed, and refreshed. It is one of the best destinations in South America for nature. Even in its large bustling cities, like Rio de Janeiro, nature surrounds you. Butterflies inhabit the city streets and Tijuca Rainforest is scattered around the city. In northern Brazil, enjoy white-sand, secluded beaches, or embark deep into the dense Amazon Rainforest. With three rainforests and the Pantanal wetlands, Brazil is perfect for seeing South America’s rare and unique species of flora and fauna.

View of Rio de Janeiro from Sugarloaf Mountain on a tour of Brazil

Best Time to Visit Ecuador

Ecuador has a variety of climates, regions, and landscapes, so it can be hard to determine when the best time to visit Ecuador is. Like most destinations, it depends on what you would like to do and the regions you would like to see and your preferences.

sealions on the galapagos islands in ecuador

Best Time to Visit Antarctica

The Best time to visit Antarctica is the region’s summer period when the wildlife is the most active. This about November through March when the ice starts to break up enabling better access for ships. In November is when you may have a chance of seeing large icebergs which provide guests amazing photography opportunities. Travelers looking for the best deal might want to consider the beginning and the end of the season as the prices will be a little better. Antarctica is very popular and growing destination though, so let’s plan a trip to Antarctica before it gets too crowded!

Penguins stand on shore near Antarctica cruise boat

Best Places to Visit in South America – March, April, May

explorer taking a picture of the amazon river at sunset

Fall in South America is from March to May. In general, this time of year results in fewer crowds and the price of transportation and hotels can drop throughout the continent as the busy summer season nears an end. Travelers will find great deals on hotels and tours at this time, while genuinely getting to experience the cities and cultures of the continent in relative peace compared to the busy summer.

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In March, travelers can enjoy exploring the abundant marine life of the Peruvian Pacific, the volcanic islands in Brazil, the roaring waterfalls of Iguazu, and the incredible, untouched wildlife of the Galapagos.

Best Time to Visit the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest is an otherworldly experience. A place where rare wildlife can be just footsteps away from you. Spot the famous Jaguar, lurking caiman, colorful toucans, and more nestled in the lush rainforest. The best time to visit the Amazon Rainforest depends on the focus of your adventure.

Bridge in the Amazon rainforest

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

We consider Mid-April to June and from September to October to be the best time to visit Machu Picchu. This time of year coincides with dry and clear weather in the Andes Mountains. Travelers may reach Machu Picchu by train or trekking the Inca Trail.

Panorama of Machu Picchu's peak

Best Time to Visit the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are approximately on the equatorial line so the Galapagos enjoy year-round sunshine and warm weather. So really, anytime is the best time to visit the Galapagos; however, if you are interested in seeing specific types of wildlife, then you will want to explore our . We also have compiled some average temperatures in the chart below.

Turtles swim underwater in the Galapagos

Best Time to Visit Venezuela

The dry season, from November to April, is usually the best time to visit Venezuela. This is the time of year that there is the least amount of rainfall and better warm sunny weather. The humidity is also lower making it a great time to explore the nature and landscape of Venezuela.

Angel Falls in Venezuela

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Best Places to Visit in South America – June, July, August

beach sunset in Rio de Janeiro Brazil

Unlike other continents, winter is an exciting season in South America, as it offers pleasant weather to every traveler. For visitors craving warm weather, Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia are ideal. All three countries have a consistent, more temperate climate year-round.

For visitors who want to see Machu Picchu or the Andean regions of Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru, these months perfectly align with their dry season. During this time, trails will reopen, and temperatures lower to a comfortable hiking level.

Winter sports enthusiasts will find no shortage of adventure during South America’s summer season. In Argentina and Chile, ski resorts and snow-covered mountains offer some fantastic skiing, snowboarding or cross country experiences throughout the winter.

Best Time to Visit Peru

Peru is one of the most popular destinations in South America – Machu Picchu being the huge draw. However, Peru boasts so many more beautiful sites and landscapes besides Machu Picchu which are perfect for families as well as solo and group travelers. Enjoy ancient ruins, colonial towns, and some of the world’s best cuisine.

tourist sitting at the top of machu picchu peru with a llama

Best Time to Visit Colombia

The winter months of July and August are considered to be the best time to Visit Colombia. The summer months of July and August are also a great time to visit. These months have the lowest rainfall of the year and can also coincide with whale watching along the pacific coast.

View over Cartagena, Columbia

Best Time To Visit Bolivia

The Best Time To Visit Bolivia is the Dry Season, this is about from May To October. During this period, there are beautifully clear days with occasional rain showers. Although the days are considered shorter during this time, the sun still shines just as bright. The pleasant weather makes for worry-free road conditions and little barriers to transportation, meaning there’s nothing stopping you from exploring everything that Bolivia has to offer! If you enjoy hiking, trekking, bike riding, climbing or any other outdoor activities, the dry season is the best time to travel to Bolivia.

Person walking across reflective salt flats

Best Places to Visit in South America – September, October, November

jacaranda trees in full bloom in buenos aires argentina

Spring is from September to November, and it is a fantastic time to visit South America. In general, spring marks the beginning of warmer weather throughout the continent. For example, in Buenos Aires, Argentina (the Paris of South America), travelers experience sunny, bright days and the beautiful bloom of Jacaranda trees that line its streets.

In tropical climates, like Colombia and the Amazon Rainforest, the seasons have little impact on weather changes, operating on their wet (approximately December – May) and dry seasons (June – December).

In addition to the warm and temperate weather conditions, travelers enjoy the added benefit of fewer crowds. It is during this time that European and North American families return to school and work after the northern hemisphere’s summer season, leaving South America even more enjoyable.

Best Time to Visit Argentina

Argentina is a popular destination for just about everything – its architecture, culture, wine, and natural landscapes keep travelers interested around the world. Taste the world renowned Malbec in Mendoza, dance the Tango in Buenos Aires, trek the glaciers of Argentine Patagonia, and explore its European inspired architecture.

Panoramic view of Argentina city

Best Time to Visit Chile

Chile is a great country to visit year round. Stretching over 4300 km long and almost halfway down the coast of South America, Chile offers a diverse range of climates. Depending on where you want to travel and what activities you would like to do, will determine the best time to visit Chile.

Hiker stands against Torres del Paine mountains

Best Time to Visit Patagonia

While Patagonia is arguably home to some of the most beautiful and breathtaking national parks in the Americas, it is also notorious for its unpredictable and ever-changing weather. We consider the shoulder seasons to be the best time to Visit Patagonia, but It’s tricky to give a blanket statement on when because it depends on what you are looking to do and see. Some venture to Patagonia for hiking, while others go for photography, relaxation, and adventure.

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Glacial landscape of Patagonia mountains

Best Time to Visit Paraguay

Travel to Paraguay is possible year round, but there are only two main seasons: hot, and extremely hot. The months of December through February are the peak hot months. Paraguay does not experience much rainfall, apart from the occasional cooling showers between March and November. We think travel to Paraguay is best any time of year, depending on your interest.

jesuit missions of Paraguay

Best Time to Visit Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname

We consider that from late August to September or February to March to be the best time to visit Guyana and its neighbors. The rainy period is over by then and everything is green and beautiful, Kaieteur Falls are running strong, and rainfall is not too much.

Aerial view of Kaieteur National Park in Guyana

Best Time to Visit Uruguay

We consider October to March to be the best time to visit Uruguay, especially if you’d like to enjoy ocean breezes and beautiful blue skies. The wind coming off the ocean will keep you cool and you might even get a great suntan. While every season in Uruguay offers visitors ideal weather for many activities, the counties Autumn months also provide a great experience.

Best Places in South America to visit in March

Best Places in South America to visit in March

Mendoza is a great destination to visit in March because of the sunny and dry weather experienced in its area. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

The weather in Mendoza typically ranges from 84°F to 77°F. This is perfect for trying different stuff in the place.

Indulge in countless glasses of Malbec and cuisine on another level in Mendoza, one of South America’s most important wine districts and a top tourist destination in Argentina!

The pampa seems to go on forever as you travel across the country; you can see this on the road from Mendoza City to the Uco Valley! Bring your friends to make your travel more fun!

San Blas Islands, Panama

San Blas Islands is a perfect place to visit in March because of its warm and dry weather, which makes the destination more beautiful! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

The weather in the Islands usually spans from 87°F to 85°F. This is best paired with their stunning beaches!

A wide variety of water sports can be enjoyed on the beaches of magnificent white sand and bright blue water, including surfing, paragliding, yachting, diving, and snorkeling.

Just lay back in a hammock and watch the world go by if you’re not the activity kind. A little cruise along the San Blas River is another option!

Have you wanted to know about the fun tourist attractions in Panama? There’s no need to look any further. We have the most comprehensive must-see attractions. Click here for the best Panama tourist attractions.

Uyuni, Bolivia

Uyuni is a fantastic spot to visit in March because this is one of the cheapest places in South America. You can expect some great accommodation deals that can really save you money! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

The weather in Uyuni typically ranges from 67°F to 65°F. The bearable temperature is perfect while strolling and trying different activities.

Among all of South America, the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is the harshest and most stunning landscape. When water covers the Salt Flats during the right season, you can shoot lovely reflection shots reminiscent of those ubiquitous humorous dinosaur photos.

The Bolivia Salt Flats is undoubtedly a remarkable natural wonder and well of a trip.

Have you been curious about the best places to visit in Bolivia? Good news! We have got your back with our curated list of must-see attractions. Visit the best Bolivia tourist attractions .

Lima, Peru

Lima is a must-visit place in March because you will encounter great accommodation deals and cheaper prices for food and souvenirs! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

The weather in Lima usually spans from 80°F to 78°F. There are a lot of things to do in Lima!

When in the city for the first time, start sightseeing at the Plaza de Armas. Go window shopping, admire the colonial buildings, and take in all Lima’s sights, sounds, and fragrances.

Nothing beats visiting a local market to get a feel for a country’s culture. Things actually take place in the marketplace.

Montañita, Ecuador

Montañita is an amazing place to visit in March, especially if you want to save some of your budgets. This destination has a lot to offer that is in fantastic deals! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

The weather in Montañita scales from 86°F to 81°F. This is a great temperature to explore the rest of the town!

If you’re searching for the ideal beach destination on the coast of Ecuador, you should go to Montañita. The small community of Montañita on Ecuador’s Pacific coast is famous for its stunning beach, laid-back atmosphere, and exciting nightlife.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is a great place to visit in March because of the sunny climate that makes the city more vibrant and welcoming to tourists.

The weather in Rio de Janeiro usually scales from 88°F to 85°F. This temperature is perfect for strolling around the city!

You should not miss the chance to visit Rio at least once. It’s a vast city, but the ocean, the mountains, and the architecture all come together to make it fantastic.

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Barra da Tijuca, Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon are just a few of the Balneario beaches that make Rio de Janeiro one of the most visited cities.

Isla Margarita, Venezuela

Isla Margarita is a stunning Island to visit in March because of the sunny weather experienced in the town. This is a perfect time to sunbathe with your friends!

The weather in Isla Margarita has a daily average temperature of 86°F. Get some tan lines and ice cream to refresh yourself! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

Popular among residents for duty-free shopping, this region of Venezuela is also a terrific area to go beachcombing and try extreme sports such as wind and kite surfing. There is thriving nightlife here, with everything from beach bars and discos to salsa clubs and five-star restaurants!

Ciudad del Este, Paraguay

Ciudad del Este is an excellent destination in March because of the low accommodation deals and cheaper airfares! You will definitely love these deals! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

The weather in Ciudad del Este ranges from 89°F to 86°F. This is perfect for strolling around the vibrant town!

The shopping in Ciudad del Este is what brings in the most visitors. Even more so among Brazilians than among Paraguayan natives! Luxury items and foreign goods are sold at bargain prices in Ciudad del Este.

Managua, Nicaragua

Managua is a must-visit place in March because there are a lot of cheap lodging deals and great offers for souvenirs and food!

The weather in Managua scales from 92°F to 94°F. The climate suggests you bring an umbrella or find shade from the scorching heat.

Managua, the capital of stunning Nicaragua, is well worth a trip. You’ll discover a cathedral worth visiting on the Plaza of the Revolution. Furthermore, the grave of Sandinista leader Carlos Fonseca can be found nearby.

Daro Park, home to a memorial to Nicaragua’s most famous poet Rubén Daro, the National Palace, the cathedral of the 20th century, the Carlos Fonseca Memorial, and the Tower of Democracy are all must-sees.

Have you been curious about the best places to visit in Nicaragua? View the hand-selected must-see attractions that have been included. Visit the best Nicaragua tourist attractions.

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Ambergris Caye is a stunning place to visit in March because it is one of the cheapest destinations. You will enjoy the rest of the area without breaking the bank!

The weather in Ambergris Caye typically ranges from 84°F to 86°F. Discover the hidden gems around the place, such as wildlife!

The stunning beaches of Ambergris Caye overlook the Belize Barrier Reef, the most extended living reef system on this side of the planet. On the other hand, the leeward side is the place to go if you want to see pristine marine ecosystems free from large crowds!

Are you interested in discovering the interesting tourist attractions in Belize? With this incredible compilation of must-see attractions, we hope to make your upcoming visit to Belize more therapeutic than ever. Hop over to the main Belize tourist attractions.

Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá is a great place to visit in March because of the mild temperature compared to other months with scorching heat. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

The weather in Bogotá has a usual range from 66°F to 62°F. The bearable climate is perfect for walking along the streets!

Bogotá is a fantastic place to visit or settle down in because it’s teeming with exciting sights, sounds, tastes, and sounds. Everything about Colombia is quickly rising up the ranks as a top travel spot.

When in Colombia, don’t miss the chance to visit Bogota and its surrounding area.

Guatemala City, Guatemala

Guatemala is one of the most beautiful and cheapest countries you can visit in March. The locals can offer you almost everything that can make you admire the city!

The weather in Guatemala City typically spans from 77°F to 79°F. This is perfect for trying different cuisines along the markets!

Guatemala City is undeniably a must-see destination thanks to its abundance of breathtaking Mayan ruins, delicious but often unappreciated cuisine, welcoming locals, and stunning natural landscape, including rainforests and volcanoes.

Wondering what the must-see tourist attractions in Guatemala are? See the complete list of must-see attractions ever compiled right here! Hop over to the top Guatemala tourist attractions.

Montevideo, Uruguay

Montevideo is a must-visit destination in March because it is included on the list of cheapest travel spots! You can do a lot of activities and visit attractions without spending too much!

The weather in Montevideo ranges from 78°F to 73°F. This is great for exploring the rest of the area.

The beautiful city of Montevideo can be seen in a day. In addition to the city’s apparent sights in the downtown and port areas.

Travelers recommend taking a stroll along the beach’s seemingly endless promenade and ending up at Playa Pocitos, where you may sip cocktails on the shores of a delightful beach.

Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island is a great destination to visit in March because of the warm and dry weather experienced in its place.

The weather on Easter Island ranges from 80°F to 79°F. This is an ideal temperature for taking some pictures with your friends!

Extinct volcanoes, lava tubes and caves built by a volcanic eruption, and a cliff-lined shoreline with secret bays are just some of Easter Island’s many natural treasures. This location has everything you want, from rich history and culture to stunning scenery.

Giant Stone Statues will welcome you once you arrive!

Are you curious about the interesting places to visit in Chile? The fantastic list of must-see attractions we have compiled is here to make your next visit to Chile more therapeutic than ever. Hop over to the main Chile tourist attractions .

Aruba

Aruba is a great place to visit in March because of the sunny weather experienced in its areas. Amazing beaches surround this place! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in March.

The weather in Aruba typically scales from 87°F to 84°F. Cocktails are best paired with tan lines and friends!

Its brilliant white beaches are its most recognizable feature. Away from the shore, you’ll find mesmerizing desert-like vistas, colorful architecture, and a thriving art and social scene.

There are several one-of-a-kind activities in Aruba, like snorkeling and visiting the largest yoga center in the Caribbean. Exquisite white sand beaches and luxurious spas await those who wish to unwind in Aruba.

Posted on Published: August 25, 2022 – Last updated: November 15, 2022

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