The Best South America Wildlife Tours for Solo Travelers

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Ever watched those nature documentaries and thought, “I want to see that stuff in real life!” but didn’t have anyone to go with? Same here! I stumbled into my first South America wildlife tour five years ago when my friend bailed last minute. Best accidental solo trip ever! Now I’m hooked on exploring the best South America wildlife tours for solo travelers.

After multiple G Adventures tours (yep, I’m slightly obsessed), I’ve figured out which ones actually work when you’re rolling solo. No awkward third-wheel vibes or crazy single supplements – just amazing wildlife experiences with cool people who become instant friends.

Ready to find out which tour gets you up close with monkeys, sloths, penguins or flamingos?

Why G Adventures Works for Solo Wildlife Trips

I’ve tried three different tour companies for South America wildlife trips. Here’s why I keep coming back to G Adventures:

• Their guides actually find animals: My guide in the Amazon spotted a perfectly camouflaged sloth that I walked right past
• Reasonable single supplements: Most tours charge $200-300 extra for your own room (and some have no single fee)
• Other solo travelers: About a third of people on my trips were traveling alone, and the age groups were all over the place – 20s, 30s, 60s, you name it
• Small groups: Usually 12-16 people, so you’re not crowding around wildlife sightings
• Safety in remote areas: You can focus on wildlife, not worrying about logistics or safety

My “Pink Dolphin Moment”

Picture this: My first morning in the Amazon, just sipping coffee on our little boat when the guide suddenly cuts the motor and whispers, “Wait.”

I nearly spilled my coffee when a pink dolphin surfaced RIGHT THERE, maybe 10 feet away! Its skin was this crazy bubble-gum pink color in the morning light. I still have the blurry photos because my hands were shaking with excitement.

Know what made it special? I was with five other solo travelers who all freaked out with me! We still tag each other in dolphin posts years later. 😊 Plus, our guide knew exactly where to find them – a spot I’d never have discovered fumbling around on my own.

That’s when it clicked for me: wildlife tours aren’t just about seeing animals – they’re about sharing those “no freaking way!” moments with new friends who get exactly how cool it is.

6 Best South America Wildlife Tours for Solo Travelers

Discover all G Adventures South America wildlife tours here.

Tour Comparison At-A-Glance

1. Machu Picchu and the Amazon (10 days)

What you’ll love: You’ll spend three full days in the Amazon Basin rainforest staying at a jungle lodge. The wildlife viewing is incredible – you’ll have close encounters with animals within minutes of arriving. Plus, you get Machu Picchu without needing to arrange complex logistics yourself.

Wildlife you’ll see:

• Multiple monkey species swinging through the trees above you
• Caimans during night spotting boat trips (their eyes glow red in flashlight beams)
• Parrots and macaws at clay licks (I saw hundreds in a kaleidoscope of colors)
• Possible sloths, river otters, and other mammals
• Countless birds, insects, frogs, and reptiles

What’s included:

• Three days at an Amazon jungle lodge
• Daily wildlife excursions with expert guides
• Machu Picchu guided tour
• All transport, including internal flights
• All accommodations
• 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Why it works for solo travelers: The jungle lodge creates instant community – you’ll share meals, wildlife sightings, and evening relaxation with your group. There’s something about seeing a giant tarantula together that bonds people quickly! 😊 The tour balances independent time with group activities.

2. Discover Patagonia (14 days)

What you’ll love: You’ll visit a penguin colony where you can stand just feet away from hundreds of waddling penguins – no zoom lens needed! The tour also takes you through southern Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park where wildlife roams against breathtaking mountain backdrops.

Wildlife you’ll see:

• Gentoo and Magellanic penguins up close on Martillo Island
• Guanacos (wild llama relatives) grazing in open grasslands
• Andean condors soaring overhead
• Possible foxes, armadillos, and native birds
• Marine wildlife during boat excursions

What’s included:

• Guided visit to Martillo Island penguin colony
• Full-day exploration of Torres del Paine National Park
• All accommodations
• All transport, including internal flights
• 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

Why it works for solo travelers: The dramatic landscapes create natural conversation starters – you’ll find yourself bonding with others over penguin antics and condor sightings. The tour includes free evenings in towns where you can easily find dinner companions from your group.

3. Ecuador’s Amazon and Volcanoes (9 days)

What you’ll love: This tour offers a different Amazon experience in Ecuador, combined with relaxing hot springs and volcano views. The two-night jungle stay gives you both daytime and nocturnal wildlife viewing.

Wildlife you’ll see:

• Hundreds of parrots and parakeets at a natural clay lick
• Various monkey species in the canopy
• Countless bird species (Ecuador has amazing bird diversity)
• Nocturnal creatures during night walks
• Rescued wildlife at the AmaZOOnico animal sanctuary

What’s included:

• Two nights at a jungle lodge on the Arajuno River
• Papallacta hot springs visit (perfect after jungle hiking)
• Guided excursions including parrot clay lick and night walks
• All accommodations
• All transport
• 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Why it works for solo travelers: This tour balances wildlife viewing with relaxation time. The hot springs at Papallacta create a natural social setting, and the jungle activities build camaraderie. With a 9-day duration, it’s perfect if you can’t take extended time off.

4. Iconic Peru (14 days)

What you’ll love: This tour gives you three completely different wildlife ecosystems in one trip – Amazon rainforest, Andes, and Lake Titicaca. Expect diverse landscapes and wildlife without planning multiple separate trips.

Wildlife you’ll see:

• Amazon wildlife similar to the Machu Picchu and Amazon tour
• High-altitude birds at Lake Titicaca including Andean flamingos
• Unique lake ecosystems with specialized species
• Highland wildlife in the Sacred Valley

What’s included:

• Three-day Amazon jungle experience
• Lake Titicaca boat tour with diverse wildlife viewing opportunities
• Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley exploration
• All accommodations
• All transport, including internal flights
• 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 2 dinners

Why it works for solo travelers: With 14 days together, your group naturally forms deeper connections. The variety of activities means you’ll find people with similar interests. Lake Titicaca’s homestay lunch experience creates meaningful cultural exchanges alongside the wildlife viewing.

5. Highlights of Bolivia (8 days)

What you’ll love: Bolivia is a beautiful land with stunning landscapes, especially the famous salt flats. You’ll see flamingos and other wildlife against surreal white backdrops that make for incredible photos.

Wildlife you’ll see:

• Flamingos in lagoons near the salt flats
• Andean wildlife including wild vicuñas
• Diverse bird species in varied habitats
• Unique salt flat ecosystems with specialized species

What’s included:

• Two full days exploring the Uyuni Salt Flats
• Sunset picnic on the salt flats with wildlife viewing
• Visit to Coquesa community near Tunupa Volcano
• All accommodations
• All transport, including internal flights
• 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

Why it works for solo travelers: The beautiful landscapes of Bolivia create strong bonds between travelers – you’re experiencing something so unique together. The remoteness of these locations means you’ll appreciate having companions to share these once-in-a-lifetime views with.

6. Explore Colombia (9 days)

What you’ll love: Colombia has unique wildlife viewing in the coffee region and along the Caribbean coast. The Cocora Valley’s towering wax palms create a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing.

Wildlife you’ll see:

• Hummingbirds and tropical birds in the coffee region
• Possible sloths and other mammals
• Marine life along the Caribbean coast
• Unique flora, including the world’s tallest palm trees

What’s included:

• Excursion to Salento and the Cocora Valley
• Coffee farm visit with wildlife viewing
• Activities along Colombia’s Caribbean coast
• All accommodations
• All transport, including internal flights
• 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

Why it works for solo travelers: Colombia is known for its warm, friendly culture which extends to your tour group. The coffee region’s beautiful accommodations and shared experiences create natural bonding opportunities. The mix of activities means you’ll connect with different people based on shared interests.

South America Wildlife Calendar: When To See What

Amazon Rainforest Seasonal Guide

• January-February: High water seasons with excellent bird watching opportunities
• March: Peak birdwatching period with high water levels
• April: Drying trails with a good wildlife mix
• May: Great weather and optimal wildlife viewing
• June-July: Prime conditions with dry season and great hiking
• August: Dry season continues with maximum species activity
• September: Dry conditions persist with still great wildlife sightings
• October: Rain begins but wildlife viewing remains good
• November: Rising river levels with fewer hiking options
• December: High water levels with massive bird flocks

Patagonia Wildlife Viewing

• January-February: Penguin chick season
• March: Penguins still present
• April: Penguins departing
• May-July: Not recommended due to cold and windy conditions
• August: Warming up
• September: Penguins returning
• October: Peak nesting period
• November: Peak nesting continues
• December: Penguin chicks beginning to appear

Lake Titicaca Wildlife and Conditions

• January-February: Rainy season with fewer birds
• March: Improving visibility
• April: Conditions getting better
• May-August: Excellent wildlife and bird viewing conditions
• September: Good birding opportunities
• October: Rainy season begins
• November: Rainy and muddy
• December: Rainy with lower access

Bolivia Salt Flats Wildlife and Landscape

• January-February: Rainy season with mirror effect
• March: Last chance for mirror landscapes
• April: Dry and photo-friendly conditions
• May: Dry season begins
• June: Dry season with perfect stargazing
• July: Dry conditions with visible wildlife
• August: Dry desert landscapes
• September: Dry with clear skies
• October: Start of rainy season
• November: Rain with early mirror effect
• December: Rainy season with mirror forming

What to Pack for Wildlife Tours

After forgetting critical items on my first trip, here’s what you actually need:

• Binoculars – Absolute must-have (8×42 magnification works well)
• Quick-dry clothes in neutral colors – Wildlife spooks at bright colors
• Serious bug spray – 30%+ DEET for the Amazon (nothing less works)
• Headlamp with red light – For night walks without disturbing animals
• Rain protection for your camera – Simple dry bag works well
• Portable charger – Limited charging opportunities in remote areas
• Water bottle with filter – Stay hydrated without plastic waste

Wildlife Photography Tips for Solo Travelers

When you’re traveling solo, getting great wildlife photos can be challenging. Here’s what works:

1. Ask your guide to take photos of you – They’re usually happy to use your camera
2. Set up a mini tripod – I use a GorillaPod to take timed shots of me with wildlife and local fauna
3. Focus on environmental portraits – Include your boots/hat/hand in wildlife scenes
4. Use burst mode for action – Increases your chances of getting the perfect shot
5. Request photo stops – Good guides will position the group for optimal lighting
6. Exchange photo taking with another solo traveler – You’ll both get better shots

How These Tours Support Wildlife Conservation

One thing I love about G Adventures is their commitment to conservation:

• Local guides who care deeply about protecting their ecosystems
• Financial support for reserves and protected areas through entrance fees
• Strict wildlife viewing protocols that minimize impact
• Community tourism that creates economic alternatives to habitat destruction
• Educational components that build awareness about conservation issues

For example, on the Ecuador’s Amazon tour, the visit to AmaZOOnico animal rescue center directly supports wildlife rehabilitation. During my visit, I saw toucans and monkeys being prepared for reintroduction to the wild – an experience I’ll never forget for the rest of my life.

Solo Female Safety on Wildlife Tours

As a woman traveling alone, I’ve found wildlife tours in South America exceptionally safe. Here are specific safety features that made a difference for me:

• Room locks and safes at all accommodations, even remote lodges
• Group transportation that eliminates risky solo taxi rides
• 24-hour guide availability for any concerns
• Well-lit pathways at jungle lodges
• Clear safety briefings about wildlife interactions
• Buddy system encouragement during free time
• Mixed gender guides (often female guides available)

For the latest safety information about traveling in South America, check the U.S. State Department Travel Advisories before your trip.

Quiz: Which South America Wildlife Tour Is For You?

Take this quick quiz to find your perfect tour!

1, What’s your wildlife viewing priority?
A) Amazon rainforest animals
B) Penguins and Patagonia wildlife
C) Amazon birds and nocturnal creatures
D) Multiple ecosystems in one trip
E) Flamingos and salt flat species
F) Birds in accessible environments
2, How much time can you take off?
A) 8-10 days
B) Two full weeks
C) About 9 days
D) Up to two weeks
E) Around a week
F) 9-10 days
3, What’s your comfort level with rugged conditions?
A) I can handle jungle conditions for a few days
B) I prefer cooler climates with hotel comforts
C) I’m fine with basic jungle lodges
D) I can manage varying conditions from Amazon to mountains
E) I’m okay with remote locations if accommodations are decent
F) I prefer more developed areas with good amenities
4, Besides wildlife, what interests you most?
A) Ancient ruins like Machu Picchu
B) Dramatic mountain landscapes
C) Relaxing natural settings like hot springs
D) Cultural experiences with local communities
E) Unique photography opportunities
F) Coffee culture and Caribbean vibes

Results:

• Mostly A’s: Machu Picchu and the Amazon
  • Hit the sweet spot! Hang with monkeys in the Amazon for three days, then explore Machu Picchu – all without planning headaches.
• Mostly B’s: Discover Patagonia
  • Not into jungle heat? Get up close with penguins and spot guanacos beneath towering mountains. Comfortable hotels and cooler weather are major bonuses!
• Mostly C’s: Ecuador’s Amazon and Volcanoes
  • Amazon wildlife without a two-week commitment! See parrots at clay licks and weird night creatures, then soak tired muscles in volcanic hot springs. All packed into 9 days.
• Mostly D’s: Iconic Peru
  • Can’t decide? Don’t! Get jungle creatures, lake birds, and mountain wildlife all in one trip. It’s the “sample everything on the menu” option with amazing cultural sites thrown in.
• Mostly E’s: Highlights of Bolivia
  • Want Instagram-worthy shots? Flamingos against surreal white salt flats look like another planet. Perfect for seeing places your friends haven’t been to yet.
• Mostly F’s: Explore Colombia
  • Wildlife without roughing it! Spot colorful birds in the gorgeous coffee region with comfortable hotels and good food. It’s wildlife viewing with all the comforts.

Why You Should Book a Wildlife Tour Instead of Going Solo

If you’re debating between independent travel and a group tour, here’s why tours win for wildlife specifically:

• You’ll actually see animals – Guides know where to look and what sounds to listen for
• Remote areas become accessible – Many wildlife hotspots are difficult to reach independently
• Built-in travel companions – Share amazing wildlife moments without the work of making friends
• Safety in numbers – Wildlife areas can be isolated and sometimes challenging
• No logistics headaches – Transportation, accommodation, and activities all handled for you
• Cost-effective overall – When you factor in transportation and local guides, tours often cost less than DIY

Bottom Line: Which South America Wildlife Tour Should You Choose?

Whatever you choose, taking that first step to book a South America travel adventure might feel scary, but I promise it’ll be among the best travel decisions you ever make. Five years and many tours later, I’m still amazed at how these diverse landscapes and experiences changed me – and I can’t wait for you to discover the same.

Let’s get lost together!