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.
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
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.
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.
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!
Best Places to Visit in South America – March, April, May
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Best Places to Visit in South America – June, July, August
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.
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.
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.
Best Places to Visit in South America – September, October, November
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
When Is The Best Time To Visit South America?
So, you want to vacation in South America, and you’ve done the hard bit – deciding which of the countless incredible destinations to explore. But with such a complex array of dry seasons, rainy seasons, altitudes, and tourist peak seasons in South America, where on Earth do you start when it comes to planning the when?!
In this post, you’ll find out the pros and cons of visiting this glorious continent at different times of the year, and you’ll be fully equipped for booking that adventure.
A General Rulebook
If you’ve got this far already, you won’t need reminding that South America is a vast continent, comprising 12 different countries, and spanning nearly 7 million square miles in area. It’s a place of endless discovery, but the swampy mangroves, snow-capped mountains, bone-dry deserts, misty forest valleys, volcanic islands, and dynamic cities of South America all come with their own unique set of weather systems and other travel factors.
The truth is, there is so much variation and range that it’s next to impossible to say what are the ‘best’ months to visit South America – it is a year-round destination and you’re sure to have the time of your life whenever you choose to go. However, there are a few general rules that are useful to bear in mind when planning your trip.
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- The seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere.
- The further south you go, the more clearly the seasons are defined.
- The closer you are to the equator (for example, Peru and Ecuador), the warmer the climate is consistent. The higher you climb in altitude, the colder it gets.
- The cheapest times to travel to South America are the shoulder seasons of Spring and Autumn. During the western holiday periods of July, August, and December, prices are higher and attractions are busier.
- The northern parts tend to be more favorable during the winter months when the temperatures are milder and there is less rainfall. The southernmost parts of the continent (such as Patagonia) are best explored during the summer months when they are less icy and inhospitable.
Read on for a breakdown of just what happens, and where, in a South American year.
Iguana At The Beach
Spring (September – November)
Widely considered the best time of the year to visit South America due to its balance of comfortable temperatures and dry weather, spring hails the arrival of stunning wildflowers and newborn animals and the departure of the winter tourists.
It’s the dry season for Bolivia’s iconic salt flats (Salar de Uyuni) which means that although you’re unlikely to see the stunning mirror of water that occurs in the wet months, the climate is perfect for exploring.
Likewise, for the Amazon Rainforest, dry season (June to November) means that river levels are low, exposing more hiking trails, and making fishing much more successful – and there are fewer mosquitos about. Being off-peak, the trails and lodges are also less crowded. However, visiting the Amazon in flood season has its own set of benefits – more on this later.
It’s also an ideal time for sightseeing in cities – as a shoulder season, the crowds won’t be overwhelming in urban hubs like Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, and the temperatures will be more manageable.
Although a Galapagos Cruise is a year-round activity, spring is an active time for the islands’ wildlife, rainfall is low, and the skies and seas are calm – ideal sailing conditions.
Unmissable festivities in Ecuador take place on November 2nd – Día de Los Difuntos (Day of the Dead) with feasts, flowers, and fine clothing, and on October 9th, with the city of Guayaquil’s Independence celebrations.
Nahuel Huapi Lake near Bariloche, Argentina
Summer (December – February)
For most of the continent, these months are the hottest of the year and the wettest. December is a high tourist season so prices will be higher, and sites of interest will be more crowded. A weather phenomenon known as El Niño sweeps across South America sporadically, every two to seven years, causing upheaval in many of the normal weather systems at this time of year.
Summer is the time for street parties and beaches – and South America has a lion’s share of festivals and sensational coasts. But be aware – they will be busy! Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro gets crowded during the world-famous Rio Carnival that takes place in February.
The rainy season sets in throughout much of the continent, except Patagonia in the south which, together with its milder temperatures, makes visiting Patagonia an ideal summer destination for wildlife watching and hiking.
Bear in mind that the Inca Trail leading to many ancient Andean citadels is closed for maintenance work during the month of February. The Pantanal and the Amazon also bear the brunt of the soggy weather so explorable areas can be limited in the summer, and Buenos Aires in Argentina can be unbearably hot.
The Ecuadorian coast is at the mercy of the rainy season, but summer rains give way to crystal clear blue skies and high temperatures, which are replaced in the dry season by overcast clouds.
Vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina
Autumn (March – May)
Another shoulder season, autumn shares many of spring’s benefits and is a great time to travel to South America because of the lower tourist numbers and milder temperatures. The summer rains leave landscapes lush and green, the city temperatures are bearable again, and the prices are much lower.
The Argentinian wine region of Mendoza is busy with winemaking activity – a great time to get involved in a wine tasting tour. The undulating hills are hydrated and the heat is more subdued in these parts.
Despite being at the tail end of the rainy season, autumn is an excellent time for an Amazon River Cruise because of the high river levels opening up creeks and waterways that aren’t accessible at other times of the year. The increased rainfall draws out animals and marks the beginning of their mating season, as well as saturating the colors of the rainforest.
The sea is at its warmest in the autumn months and provides perfect conditions for snorkeling at the coast. It’s a good time to visit the Galapagos Islands, making the most of calmer seas and skies, and a plethora of wildlife to see. The Uyuni salt flats are transformed into a spectacular reflective surface in the autumn making for jaw-dropping photos.
Urban View of White Santiago, Chile
Winter (June – August)
Winter in South America marks the end of the wet season – be ready for clearer skies and cooler temperatures. This is probably the busiest tourist time, but for good reason – the clear conditions are perfect for visiting sites like Machu Picchu and hiking in general (make sure to book Inca Trail tickets six months in advance), and Brazil’s epic wetland the Pantanal brims with wildlife at this time of year. Explore the Atacama Desert in the winter and be rewarded by astonishingly clear starry skies at night.
Patagonia in southern Chile and Argentina is mostly shut down in the winter by harsh ice and snow, but some areas are open for skiing and other snowsports. It’s also worth bearing in mind that during the dry season a dense fog called La Garua descends on Peru’s capital of Lima, whereas nearby Cusco benefits from blue skies and minimal rain.
Buenos Aires hosts the Tango’s International Festival and Dance World Cup in August each year which is worth a trip, while the end of July transforms a small Bolivian town called San Ignacio de Moxos into a wild summer party of costumes and color.
When it comes down to it, much depends on the activities you’re planning and where you’d like to visit. Many places in South America make good all year round destinations, such as the Galapagos Islands which have a constant succession of nesting, breeding, migrating, and hatching seasons, but some places need a bit more careful planning. Some sites can come to life in mystical rainy weather, while others are obscured, and in some parts of the continent such as Torres del Paine in Patagonia, the weather can whistle through several seasons in just one day! It’s always wise to know what’s coming, so do your homework, then get packing!
Disclaimer
While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.
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The Best Time To Visit South America – Climate Planner
With the climate varying so widely in this continent, trying to plan your South America trip can be an absolute nightmare. Now with that seed of despair planted in your mind, let me give you some good news: there is no bad time to visit South America!
Regardless of the time of year that you plan to travel, there will always be a country in full bloom and ready to showcase its assets to visitors. In order to help you plan your journey, let’s start with a very basic breakdown of some of the suggested months to visit each country.
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Your South America Climate Planner!
These months have been selected based on a number of factors including, weather, temperatures, transport accessibility, prices and overall attraction/activity availability. However, with countries so vast in size, all of these things vary hugely from one end to another.
For example, June may be a great time to visit the North of Chile but the South is a no-go because of transport disruption. With this in mind, check out the individual country overviews below which contain more specific guidance on particular regions. Before you start looking through the country breakdowns, make some quick notes about the type of activities you would like to do in each country. This will help you to decide where to start your research and what kind of climate is ideal. As always, don’t forget to make sure your travel insurance covers you for any activities you have planned!
The Best Time To Visit Argentina
March – May: These are great months to visit Argentina’s cities as temperatures are pleasant and the weather is good. If you’re a wine lover, be sure to visit Mendoza in March as this is when the grapes are harvested.
June – August: If you are hoping to get your skis on, this is the best time to visit. The winter months are great for snow sports but it gets super cold during this time. Expect reduced bus services and flight cancellations due to bad weather and make sure you pack for the cold and the wet.
September – November: Temperatures are warm in both North and Central Argentina whilst still being mild in the South. You can visit practically anywhere in the country and enjoy fair weather over this period. This is a great time to road trip the 7 Lakes route!
December – February: These are the best months to visit Patagonia (although prices are high) and enjoy some of Argentina’s best hikes. It is also a good time to visit the country’s beaches. Temperatures in the South are at their warmest which makes it the perfect time to get involved in some outdoor adventures. Read more about backpacking Argentina!
It can get pretty chilly in Patagonia!
The Best Time to Visit Bolivia
May – October: This is the high season and the best time to visit the country. Dry weather brings clear skies and decent conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and climbing. Be aware that this is the Bolivian winter season, so temperatures will vary all over and be fairly cool outside of the Amazon. La Paz tends to fluctuate between highs of seventeen and lows of zero from May to October!
November – April: It is probably easier for travellers to avoid the country during the rainy season. If you do visit, be prepared for transport disruption from flooding, landslides and severe fog. This also means that outdoor sports are a no-go at this time. The cities are still good places to check out though, especially when the festival season begins in February. If you want to see the famous Salt Flats in all their reflective glory, April is actually the best time of year to visit! Find out more about backpacking Bolivia!
Skies may be blue, but so are your fingers in La Paz!
The Best Time to Visit Brazil
March – June: Temperatures are warm which means prices are lower to tempt in visitors bef ore winter hits. Only consider visiting the Amazon from the end of May onwards if you don’t want to go everywhere via canoe, flooding is common from January up until this point.
June – September: These are the winter months in Brazil although temperatures tend to stay warm near the equator. Generally speaking, the higher the altitude or the further south in the country, the milder the temperatures (marginally).
October – November: Prices tend to be cheaper as these months are not the most popular with tourists. Temperatures are mostly comfortable and visiting out of peak season means you will avoid most of the holidays that draw in the crowds.
December – February: The summer season hits and brings hoards of tourists with it. As the temperatures peak, travellers flock to the country’s beaches. Prices will be hiked up around the time of the Carnival which takes place in either February or early March. Learn more about backpacking Brazil!
A Quiet Beach in Rio!
The Best Time to Visit Chile
March – May: The autumn season is a good time to visit Chilean Patagonia as it is cheaper, although you will have to make compromises. Throughout autumn many places shut up for the low season because of the cold temperatures. Don’t expect highs to regularly exceed ten degrees and prepare yourself for even colder nights. As a result of the plummeting temperatures, your accommodation options will be limited.
June – August: The weather in the North is good but avoid Chilean Patagonia because of freezing rainfall. Winter season sees the worst of the weather which leaves many roads blocked and forces attractions in the South to close.
September – October: This is a good time to visit the Atacama Desert, as well as the city of Santiago because the climate is pleasant. You will still want to pack something warm for the evenings though as it can get chilly.
November – February: This is the best time to visit Chilean Patagonia as temperatures are at their highest. However, this will mean time spent there will be expensive. More sun means that it is the best time to visit the beach but unfortunately everyone has the same idea. Read more about backpacking Chile!
Valparaiso
The Best Time to Visit Colombia
April – July: The Highlands should be avoided as this is when the country says hello to the rainy season. Transport disruption as a result of flooding is likely.
August – September: The rain begins to ease off around the start of this period so the country is more suited for outdoor adventures. To see Medellin in bloom, check out Feria de las Flores (The Flower Festival) which takes place in August.
October – November: The rain returns which scares off the majority of tourists. As a result, prices drop and the crowds ease off. This is a great opportunity to visit the Amazon for trekking as the rainforest is surprisingly dry this time of year.
December – March: These are the driest months across the country which makes them well-suited for a whole variety of outdoor activities including trekking in the Andes. Find out more about backpacking Colombia!
Cartagena, Colombia
The Best Time to Visit Ecuador
June – September: This is the peak season for visitors to the country. The temperatures are warm year-round in Ecuador, with the exception of in the Highlands which benefit from warmer temperatures and drier days. This is a particularly expensive time to do a Galapagos cruise.
October – November: These months see prices drop as there is less interest from tourists. This results in lower prices and also means that advance booking isn’t usually necessary. Both October and November are a good time to visit the Amazon as rivers are generally passable.
December – May: Whilst this is the rainy season, it is an ideal time to visit Ecuador’s beaches as you can enjoy warm, sunny mornings with short bursts of tropical rain in the afternoons and evenings. These are the warmest months for the Galapagos and the wind drops which is great if you are looking for an island cruise. Read up on Ecuador backpacking!
A Deserted Beach in Montañita, Ecuador
The Best Time to Visit French Guiana
January – June: This is the rainy season which puts many travellers off exploring the country. The temperatures are still warm but the rain makes for humid days. From March onwards, prices begin to drop to entice visitors.
July – September: Temperatures begin to rise and August sees the peak month of travel which bumps up prices. Rain eases off but the climate remains humid.
October – December: This is still a busy period for the industry so expect to see continued high prices. Rainfall begins to increase so expect a wetter experience, especially if interacting with the wildlife.
French Guiana
The Best Time to Visit Guyana
Late January – April: This marks the wind down of the rainy season, leaving the country more passable for rainforest exploration. Waterfalls are at their fullest and the foliage is lush and green. Whilst there is not yet a defined traveller trail, Guyana is popular with tourists during these months and prices will be higher.
May – Mid July: During this time, road travel can become troublesome owing to flooding from the rainy season. However, these months are a great time to spot Jaguar as they come out of the rainforest and onto the roads to dry off.
Late July – Mid November: These months see temperatures begin to increase (although they stay between mid-twenties and low thirties year-round owing to the proximity to the equator) and boggy parts of the jungle become easier to access.
Late November – Mid January: This is the second of Guyana’s rainy seasons and probably not the most advisable time to travel to the country. Learn more about backpacking Guyana!
Kaieteur Falls Guyana
The Best Time to Visit Paraguay
April – September: These are the peak months of tourism in Paraguay. The weather is less humid although still hot. Many travellers use this to their advantage to visit the Chaco, a vast plain which encompasses the entire western half of the country. Many important cultural festivals also take place within this time frame.
October – March: This is the summer season and a popular time for travellers to visit the country. As you would expect, temperatures are high and the humidity is extreme which can mean that outdoor activities are not the most comfortable!
Click for more on backpacking Paraguay!
Encarnación, Paraguay
The Best Time to Visit Peru
June – August: These months welcome the dry season which makes it a great time to embark on some of Peru’s best hikes, particularly in the Andes. Both July and August are the peak times to visit Machu Picchu, so make sure you book your trip at least six months in advance in order to obtain a permit.
September – November: Except for the Highlands, the weather is hot, with temperatures tending to hover around thirty degrees. As many tourists leave after August, it is a good time to do the busiest attractions.
December – March: Expect rain on the Highlands and around Cusco but make the most of the hot weather which comes with it. This is a good time to enjoy the coast of Peru because the rainfall is less in these areas and the days are sunny.
April – May: Visiting the country after the rainy season means that the landscape is at its greenest. You will also get to avoid the big crowds of tourists who are attracted by the peak season which means permits for hikes can be organised closer to the time. Read more about backpacking Peru!
A Very Snowy Path in Peru.
The Best Time to Visit Suriname
February – April: This is the first of the dry seasons in the country and the cooler of the two. Visit during late February to May to get the most out of turtle watching in the country.
May – July: These are generally months to avoid travelling through Suriname because of the volume of rainfall. The road network is fairly limited in certain areas and it can struggle to withstand the flooding that comes with the wet season.
August – November: This is the second of the dry seasons and is hotter than the first. Prices for accommodation and flights will be higher in these months but it is still possible to get some decent deals if you book in advance.
December – January: Temperatures are at their coolest, although it is still pretty hot during these months. There is also an increase in rainfall which means much fewer tourists and lower prices.
A mosque in Suriname.
The Best Time to Visit Uruguay
January – March: Both Carnival and Easter mean that these are expensive months to visit the country but temperatures are high and rainfall isn’t too bad.
April – May: This may be the autumn season but despite this, the sea is at it’s warmest. During this time, the beaches really come into their own. It is arguably the best time to go snorkelling off the coast.
June – October: Temperatures drop during the winter months which means cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds. If you’re interested in wildlife and would like to do some whale watching, head to the coast where they come to breed for the winter season.
November – December: Tourists from neighbouring countries tend to travel to Uruguay around the end of the year to spend the holiday season. Prices go up massively during the Christmas and New Year period and the temperatures begin to climb to just over twenty degrees. Click for more on Uruguay backpacking!
Punta Del Este
The Best Time to Visit Venezuela
February – March: It is slightly cooler this time of year which means visitors are able to enjoy the Easter Carnival celebrations which take place.
April – September: Temperatures start to warm up but it also gets wetter. Visiting Gran Sabana and the Angel Falls is the perfect activity as the rainy season makes them more accessible and offers better photos opportunities.
October – November: This is the low season so visitors to the country can enjoy lower prices. November signifies the beginning of the driest months of the year which offers the perfect excuse for hiking or getting involved in other outdoor pursuits.
December – January: These tend to be the months where most of the locals travel because of the Christmas and New Year holidays. Prices will go up rapidly and accommodation will fill up way in advance. Find out more about backpacking Venezuela!
Venezuelan countryside
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Sheree Hooker | Editor @ South America Backpacker + Winging The World
Sheree is the awkward British wanderluster behind wingingtheworld.com, a travel blog designed to show that even the most useless of us can travel. Follow Sheree’s adventures as she blunders around the globe, falling into squat toilets, getting into cars with machete men and running away from angry peacocks.
Source https://www.southamerica.travel/south-america/travel-info/best-time-to-visit
Source https://www.rainforestcruises.com/guides/best-time-to-visit-south-america
Source https://southamericabackpacker.com/south-america-climate/