Best South America Group Tours for Solo Travelers – Budget to Luxury

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Looking for South America group tours but feeling overwhelmed? I feel you. When I first started planning mine, I spent hours staring at maps, trying to figure out the safest routes and coolest places to visit. Spoiler alert: I was totally overthinking it.

Here’s the thing – group tours can be a total game-changer for exploring South America. You get to be independent, but someone else handles all the annoying logistics. Plus, you automatically have buddies to share those “holy crap, we’re really in Machu Picchu” moments with.

I’ve tried everything from sleeping in hostels to fancy lodges across South America, so let me break down the best group tours for solo travelers – whatever your style and budget.

Why Group Tours Are Perfect for Solo Travelers in South America

Look, I’m a huge fan of solo travel, but South America is a different beast. Between the late-night bus schedules, language barriers (my Spanish was NOT as good as I thought), and figuring out how to get from A to B safely between destinations in South America – it can be a lot. That’s why I always recommend G Adventures tours here. I’ve done several of their trips myself and honestly can’t shut up about them. They nail that perfect balance between adventure and having everything organized.

The best part? Unlike most tour companies, G Adventures won’t slap you with that annoying single supplement fee just because you’re traveling solo. You’ll be paired with a roommate (usually another solo traveler), or you can score your own room (sometimes at no extra cost). Game changer!

Group Tours vs. Going Solo in South America

Here’s the honest truth – both have their place. Independent travel gives you total freedom, sure. But a group tour in South America means:

• Someone else figures out how to get from Colombia to Ecuador (trust me, that border crossing is… interesting)
• You’ve got instant friends to split taxis and watch your bag while you run to the bathroom
• A local guide who knows which neighborhoods to avoid and which local dishes will become your favorites
• All the hard-to-book stuff (like Machu Picchu permits) is handled for you

The G Adventures Difference

Here’s what made me fall in love with G Adventures tours:

• No single supplement fees
• Small group tour (usually 12-16 people) instead of massive tour buses
• Plenty of free time to explore on your own
• Local guides who actually live in the regions you’re visiting
• Different tour styles for every type of traveler and budget
• Their genuine commitment to responsible travel – from planting trees for every tour booked to strict animal welfare policies (no elephant rides or dolphin shows here). They also partner with local communities, so your money actually supports the places you visit

How G Adventures Tours Actually Work

Let me break down exactly what these tours look like, based on my own experiences (and trust me, my G Adventures guides have saved me from so many tourist traps).

What’s Included in Every Tour

• All your accommodation
• Transport between places (from public buses to private vans, depending on the tour style)
• A local guide who seriously knows their stuff (they call them CEOs – Chief Experience Officers)
• Entry fees to included activities (like Machu Picchu permits – which are a pain to get yourself)
• Some meals (always breakfast, plus special local dinners)
• Airport pickup if you arrive on day 1
• All those annoying permits and national park fees

What You Need to Cover

• Flights to/from South America
• Most lunches and dinners (budget $15-45 per day, depending on tour style)
• Optional activities (like that zip-lining adventure in Costa Rica I couldn’t resist)
• Travel insurance (non-negotiable – they check)
• Tips for guides ($7-10 per day is standard)
• Visas if you need them (check official government travel websites for the U.S. or U.K.)

Money Matters (Real Talk)

• Bring two different debit/credit cards (I learned this the hard way when my card got blocked in Chile)
• Your guide will point out the safe ATMs (those random ones on the street? Not worth the risk)
• Most places take cards now, but always have some cash
• In Argentina, ask your guide about the “blue dollar” rate – this saved me serious money
• Budget extra for bottled water in places where tap water isn’t safe

Day-to-Day Stuff

• Tours kick off with a meeting on the first evening
• Each day usually has one planned activity plus free time
• You can skip activities if you need alone time
• Accommodations usually have WiFi, but don’t count on it being fast
• Tell them about dietary restrictions in advance (they sorted my gluten-free needs like champs)
• They’ll send you a packing list – actually follow it (I wished I’d brought more layers for those chilly Andean nights)

The Guide Situation

Your guide (or CEO as G Adventures calls them) isn’t just someone who shows you around – they’re literally your go-to person for everything. Mine have been absolute lifesavers. Let me give you some real examples:

These guides are like walking encyclopedias of local knowledge. They:

• Know which ATMs are safe to use (and which neighborhoods to avoid)
• Handle all those confusing bus terminals and border crossings
• Get you the local price instead of the tourist markup
• Call trusted taxis (especially helpful late at night)
• Sort out any issues
• Know exactly when to visit Machu Picchu to avoid the crowds
• Can recommend trusted doctors who speak English (which I needed when I caught a nasty cold in Bolivia)
• Help translate at pharmacies when you need medicine
• Know which street food is safe to eat and which to skip

So, let’s look at all the different G Adventures tours you can choose from in South America.

South America Budget Tours: Roamies by G Adventures ($)

Ever wanted to travel on a budget but worried about figuring everything out yourself? That’s exactly why G Adventures teamed up with Hostelworld to create Roamies tours. You get to stay in really good hostels (no sketchy ones!), meet other travelers, and have all your activities planned out.

Who’s It Perfect For?

• First-time solo travelers who don’t want to plan everything alone
• Travelers who want to save money but still have a proper adventure
• People who love meeting new friends while traveling
• Anyone who doesn’t mind sharing a room to keep costs down

What to Expect

• You’ll stay in hostels, sharing rooms with 4-8 other travelers
• Small groups (12-16 people), mostly other solo travelers
• Busy days with plenty of activities
• Mix of local buses and private transport
• Budget range: $450 – $1,150

Best Budget Tours in South America

Here are three of their most popular Peru routes that give you the best bang for your buck:

The Total Peru Package

• Perfect intro to Peru: Lima, Huacachina desert, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu
• Includes that bucket-list Machu Picchu trip plus cool extras like sandboarding
• Great mix of cities, nature, and ancient sites

Inca Adventure

• Focused on Cusco and Machu Picchu
• Perfect if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the highlights
• Optional Rainbow Mountain hike available

Peruvian Coast

• Quick but action-packed Lima and desert adventure
• Great add-on to other South America trips
• Perfect for adventure lovers (think dune buggies and sandboarding)

South America Young Adults Tours: 18-to-Thirtysomethings ($)

Want to explore South America with people your age but hate the idea of rigid schedules? That’s exactly what these tours are about. They’re fast-paced and social, but without the strict “everyone must do everything together” vibe. Think of it as backpacking – but way more organized and way less stressful.

Who’s It Perfect For?

• Young travelers (mostly 18-39) who want to meet people their age
• Anyone who likes to stay active and doesn’t mind early mornings
• Travelers who want to see a lot in a shorter time
• People who enjoy a good mix of group activities and solo exploring
• Those who want authentic local experiences without totally roughing it

What to Expect

• Simple but clean hotels and hostels (mix of shared and private rooms)
• Groups of 12-16 people, mostly solo travelers in their 20s and early 30s
• Fast-paced itineraries packed with included activities
• Lots of public transport to keep costs down
• Plenty of free evenings to go out with your group
• Budget range: $1,000 – $4,500+

Best Tours for Young People in South America

Here are their most popular itineraries:

Buenos Aires to Rio & Party Vibes

• Perfect for social butterflies: combines Brazil’s beaches with Argentina’s culture
• Includes Iguazu Falls, Rio’s highlights, and Buenos Aires’ best places
• Plenty of time for nightlife and meeting locals

Colombia: Medellin, Nights & Tayrona National Park

• Perfect intro to Colombia’s highlights
• Mix of Caribbean coast and mountain cities
• Perfect if you’re short on time but want the full Colombian experience

Lima to Buenos Aires: Deserts & Dancing

• Epic journey through Peru, Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina
• Includes Machu Picchu, Atacama Desert, and salt flats
• Perfect for those wanting to see it all in one trip

Galapagos Adventure: Snorkeling & Sea Lions

• Once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters
• Snorkel with sea lions and tropical fish
• Perfect add-on to any Ecuador trip
• Island hopping through the best places

South America Mid-Range Tours: Classic ($$)

Looking for that sweet spot between basic backpacking and luxury travel? Classic tours are perfect for that. You get comfortable hotels, more included activities, and a bit more relaxed pace – but without the luxury price tag. These tours are G Adventures’ most popular option, and I totally get why.

Who’s It Perfect For?

• Travelers who want comfort but still crave adventure
• People who prefer private rooms but don’t need fancy hotels
• Those who like a mix of planned activities and free time
• Anyone who wants to see the highlights but also go off the beaten path
• First-time travelers to South America who want a comprehensive experience
• Budget range: $1,200 – $5,500+

What to Expect

• 3-star hotels with private bathrooms
• Small groups (12-16 people), mixed ages
• Good balance of included activities and free time
• Mix of private and public transport
• More included meals than budget tours

Best Mid-Range Tours in South America

Here is an overview of their most popular Classic tours.

Absolute Peru

• The ultimate Peru experience: from Lima to Machu Picchu
• Includes Amazon jungle, Colca Canyon, and Lake Titicaca
• Perfect blend of ancient sites and natural wonders

Machu Picchu & Galapagos Island Hopping

• Combines Peru’s highlights with Galapagos wildlife
• Perfect for nature and history lovers
• Two bucket-list destinations in one trip

Southern Divide

• Epic journey through Bolivia, Chile, Peru, and Machu Picchu
• Perfect mix of Andean culture and incredible landscapes
• Great for those wanting to explore the heart of South America

Inland & Amazon

• Explore Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest
• Mix of jungle adventures and mountain towns
• Great for wildlife lovers and nature photographers

South America Luxury Tours: The Geluxe Collection ($$$)

Want to explore South America in style? The Geluxe Collection is G Adventures’ premium line, featuring boutique hotels, more intimate groups, and unique experiences you can’t get elsewhere. Think private transfers, gourmet dining, and those special moments that turn a great trip into an unforgettable one.

Who’s It Perfect For?

• Travelers who want the best accommodations and experiences
• Those who prefer intimate small groups (8-12 people)
• Anyone who values exclusive access and unique experiences
• People who want to explore in comfort without sacrificing authenticity
• Those who appreciate fine dining and boutique hotels
• Budget range: $3,000 – $10,000

What to Expect

• Boutique hotels and luxury lodges
• Private transport throughout
• Smaller group sizes (max 12 people)
• More included meals at carefully selected restaurants
• Exclusive experiences not available on other tours
• Expert guides with deep local knowledge

Best Luxury Tours in South America

Here are all their tour itineraries.

Ecuador: Volcanoes, the Amazon & the Galapagos

• Three of Ecuador’s highlights in one luxury package
• Unique wildlife experiences in both Amazon and Galapagos
• Perfect mix of adventure and comfort

Peru: Inca Trail & the Amazon

• Luxury version of the classic Peru route
• Premium Amazon lodges and high-end Cusco hotels
• Private guided tours of Machu Picchu

Patagonia: Torres del Paine & Los Glaciares National Park

• Focus on Patagonia’s most spectacular parks
• Exclusive hiking trails and viewpoints
• Luxury lodges in pristine locations

South America Adventure Tours: Active ($$)

Love kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and outdoor adventures? Active tours are all about getting your heart pumping while exploring South America’s most spectacular landscapes. These tours focus on outdoor activities, with a perfect mix of challenging days and time to recover.

Who’s It Perfect For?

• Active travelers who love hiking and trekking
• Anyone with decent fitness level and sense of adventure
• People who want to earn those incredible views
• Travelers who enjoy camping and outdoor experiences
• Those seeking challenging but rewarding experiences
• Budget range: $800 – $5,000

What to Expect

• Mix of camping and basic hotels
• Small groups (8-12 people) who share your passion for hiking
• Physical activities most days
• Experienced mountain guides
• Proper hiking and camping equipment provided

Best Active Tours in South America

Browse all their tour itineraries here.

Active Galápagos & Machu Picchu

• Combine hiking the Inca Trail with Galápagos exploration
• Active adventures in two bucket-list destinations
• Perfect mix of wildlife and ancient history

The Inca Trail

• Classic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu
• Includes camping equipment and porters
• Perfect for your first multi-day trek
• Supports over 560 local staff from nearby communities

Hike Patagonia in Depth

• Best hiking trails in Chile and Argentina
• Mix of day hikes and multi-day treks
• Includes both Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares

South America Wildlife Tours: National Geographic Journeys ($$$)

Want to experience South America with a bit more comfort and deeper cultural immersion? National Geographic Journeys are perfect for that sweet spot between standard tours and ultra-luxury travel. You get better accommodations, more unique experiences, and expert guides with specialized knowledge – but you’re still getting amazing value for the higher price point.

Who’s It Perfect For?

• Travelers who appreciate comfort but still want authentic experiences
• People who prefer quality accommodations with character
• Those interested in deeper cultural and natural insights
• Photography enthusiasts who want perfect wildlife and landscape shots
• Travelers who value expert knowledge and specialized guides
• Budget range: $2,000 – $7,500+

What to Expect

• Higher-end accommodations with local character
• Smaller groups (max 16 people), typically more mature travelers
• Special access to unique sites and experiences
• More included activities and meals than standard tours
• Expert guides with specialized knowledge in wildlife, history, or culture
• Thoughtfully paced itineraries with less rushing around

Best Wildlife Tours in South America

Here is an overview of their most popular National Geographic Journeys.

Treasures of Peru & Bolivia

• 16-day adventure combining Peru’s ancient wonders with Bolivia’s surreal landscapes
• Includes Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, vibrant cities, and the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats
• Perfect for photographers and cultural explorers

Highlights of Bolivia

• 8-day journey through Bolivia’s diverse landscapes and colonial cities
• From La Paz to the Salt Flats with stops in Sucre and Potosí
• Great for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences

Explore Colombia

• 9-day trip showcasing Colombia’s incredible diversity
• Experience coffee plantations, colonial cities, and Caribbean coast
• Perfect for travelers looking for emerging destinations

South America Tours for Solo Travelers: Solo-ish Adventures ($$)

Traveling solo but don’t want to be completely alone? G Adventures’ Solo-ish tours are the perfect middle ground. These carefully designed trips bring together like-minded travelers in small groups, giving you the freedom of independent travel with the security and social benefits of group travel.

Who’s It Perfect For?

• Solo travelers who want built-in travel companions
• First-time solo travelers seeking a safety net
• Social butterflies who love meeting new people
• Anyone who wants the logistics handled for them
• Travelers who prefer sharing experiences over solo sightseeing
• Budget range: $1,050 – $4,450

What to Expect

• Small groups (8-16 travelers), mostly solo adventurers
• Mix of shared and private accommodation options
• Plenty of free time to do your own thing
• Built-in social activities to bond with your group
• Local guides who help bridge cultural gaps
• “G for Good” projects supporting local communities

Best Solo Travel Tours in South America

Here is an overview of their most popular Solo-ish Adventures.

Solo-ish Ecuador & Galapagos

• 15-day comprehensive Ecuador experience from mainland to islands
• Combines Amazon rainforest, Quito, and incredible Galapagos wildlife
• Perfect for nature lovers who want diversity in one trip

Solo-ish Galapagos

• 9-day focused exploration of the legendary Galapagos Islands
• Island-hopping adventure with amazing wildlife encounters
• Ideal for wildlife photographers and Darwin enthusiasts

Solo-ish Peru

• 9-day classic route from Lima to Cusco with Machu Picchu
• Hits all the essential Peruvian highlights
• Great for first-time visitors to South America

South America Cruise Tours: Marine ($$$-$$$$)

Want to explore South America from a completely different perspective? G Adventures’ Marine tours let you experience incredible destinations from the comfort of a small expedition ship. These aren’t your typical massive cruise ships – they’re intimate vessels that can access places bigger ships can’t reach, with expert naturalist guides and a focus on wildlife encounters.

Who’s It Perfect For?

• Travelers who want comfort without sacrificing adventure
• Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers
• Those who hate constantly packing and unpacking
• Travelers who want to reach remote islands and coastlines
• Budget range: $3,100 – $10,500

What to Expect

• Small expedition vessels (16-32 passengers)
• All meals included with local ingredients
• Expert naturalist guides and lectures
• Daily shore excursions and activities
• More comfortable than land tours but still expedition-focused
• Snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and other gear included

Best Cruise Tours in South America

Here is an overview of their most popular cruise offerings.

Amazon Riverboat Adventure in Depth

• 9-day cruise deep into Peru’s Amazon on a comfortable riverboat
• Explore remote tributaries unreachable by land
• Perfect for bird watchers and jungle enthusiasts

Galápagos – Central and East Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager

• 10-day cruise exploring the most wildlife-rich islands
• Close encounters with giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies
• Perfect for first-time Galápagos visitors

Complete Galápagos – Eden

• 17-day comprehensive exploration of all major Galápagos regions
• The most complete wildlife experience possible
• Ideal for serious nature enthusiasts who want to see everything

G Adventures: My Personal Experience & What Others Say

Reviews from Other Travelers

Having scrolled through hundreds of G Adventures reviews for their South America tours, I can tell you the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Most travelers rate their experiences between 4.5-5 stars, with particular praise for:

• Knowledgeable and passionate guides who go above and beyond
• Well-organized itineraries that hit all the highlights while still feeling adventurous
• The perfect balance of planned activities and free time
• Small group sizes that foster genuine friendships
• Unique experiences you couldn’t easily arrange on your own

The Galápagos cruises seem to consistently blow people away (“magical,” “unforgettable,” and “surpassed all expectations” come up repeatedly). Meanwhile, Patagonia trekkers rave about the stunning landscapes and expert mountain guides, and Peru travelers can’t say enough about the perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and ancient sites.

My Experience

I’ve traveled with G Adventures multiple times in South America, and I honestly can’t recommend them enough. They nail that sweet spot between adventure and comfort – you’re never too pampered to feel disconnected from the amazing destinations in South America, but never so roughing it that you’re miserable

What keeps me coming back is their local guides. These folks aren’t just following a script – they’re passionate about sharing their home countries with you. I’ve had guides in Peru point out tiny architectural details I would have missed completely, and Galápagos naturalists who could spot a rare bird from what seemed like a mile away.

Not everything was perfect though. On my Bolivia trip, there were a couple of people in our group who were constantly complaining about the altitude and bathroom situations (what did they expect?). I just started hanging with the other folks instead 😊.

I know the price tags might make you wince at first, but honestly, I’ve never felt like I overpaid – quite the opposite. When I break down what was included (accommodation, transportation, activities, guides) and consider what a logistical nightmare it would’ve been to arrange it all myself, the value becomes obvious. Try pricing out a DIY Galápagos trip and you’ll see what I mean!

Trust me – whether you’re with them in the Amazon or Machu Picchu, G Adventures delivers. Just bring a good attitude and some flexibility, and you’ll have an amazing time.

Which South America Group Tour is Right for You?

Not sure which tour style fits your travel personality? Take this quick quiz to find out!

1, What’s your travel budget?
A) As cheap as possible
B) Budget-friendly, but I can splurge on special experiences
C) Mid-range – comfortable but not luxury
D) I can spend more for quality experiences
E) Premium – I want the best available
2, What’s your ideal accommodation?
A) Hostels with fellow travelers
B) Simple but clean private rooms
C) 3-star hotels with private bathrooms
D) Boutique hotels with character
E) Luxury lodges and best-in-class properties
3, What’s your activity level?
A) Very active
B) Energetic
C) Balanced
D) Moderate
E) Relaxed
4, Who do you want to travel with?
A) Young travelers in their 20s-30s
B) Fellow solo travelers of any age
C) A diverse mix of ages and backgrounds
D) Like-minded people who appreciate nature and culture
E) Smaller groups with specialized guides

Results:

• Mostly A’s: Roamies or 18-to-Thirtysomethings Tours You’re looking for budget-friendly adventures with young, social travelers. These fast-paced tours maximize experiences while keeping costs down.
• Mostly B’s: Solo-ish Adventures Perfect for solo travelers wanting built-in companions! You’ll enjoy the social aspects while having freedom to do your own thing.
• Mostly C’s: Classic Tours The perfect middle ground! You want comfort without sacrificing authenticity, with a good mix of must-see highlights and hidden gems.
• Mostly D’s: Active or Marine Tours You’re drawn to wildlife and natural landscapes, whether trekking Patagonia or cruising the Galápagos. You appreciate comfort after active days.
• Mostly E’s: National Geographic Journeys or Geluxe Collection You value expertise, premium experiences, and the finer things. Choose National Geographic Journeys for expert-led wildlife and cultural insights, or the Geluxe Collection for true luxury with boutique accommodations and exclusive experiences.

Ready to Explore South America Group Tours?

After hundreds of miles across this incredible continent, I’m convinced that group tours are the perfect way to experience South America’s magic.

Whether you’re hiking to Machu Picchu, island-hopping in the Galápagos, or exploring the vibrant streets of Cartagena, traveling with expert guides unlocks experiences you’d never find solo.

Let’s get lost together on your next South American adventure – just with someone who knows the secret spots and speaks the language! 😊

Which tour caught your eye?