Wildlife Trips in South America: The 6 We Recommend

1.Santa Cruz: Wildlife Sanctuary and Preservation Park Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 73 reviews · 1 day · from $85Our pick

Leave Santa Cruz by air-conditioned taxi for the AFASI Foundation, about an hour away. Urs, Monica, Jorge, Benji, and local guides introduce you to monkeys, pumas, birds, turtles, and other rescued animals, followed by hikes through swamps, lagoons, and tropical forest. Lunch and return transport are included.

“We had an amazing experience at the AFASI Foundation. The journey was smooth and well-organized. Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by Mr. Urs Butchler, whose charisma and energy make the place truly special. He personally guided the first tour, sharing incredible stories about each rescued animal, making it both educational and inspiring. Afterward, we enjoyed fresh fruit before exploring the beautiful flora and fauna with Mr. Julio, whose knowledge exceeded our expectations. The team’s hospitality and the delicious homemade lunch made us feel at home. This tour is a must for nature lovers!”

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2.4 Day Tambopata Amazon Wildlife & Canopy Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 72 reviews · 4 days (approx.) · from $585

Travel by boat from Puerto Maldonado into Tambopata for four days of jungle walks, canopy viewing, Sandoval Lake, piranha fishing, caiman spotting, a parrot clay lick, and a visit with a local family. Groups stay at eight people, with guides such as Andres, Carlos, Romario, and Tito praised for sharp animal spotting and strong Amazon knowledge. Expect basic facilities and limited electricity.

“Little activities in between a lot of down time and probably an ease of time. 4 days could have easily been done in 2. Not too many animals to see. The lodging was not t organized well. No power or water or internet most times. The food was ok, but not really enough for everyone there. Not a real jungle adventure.”

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3.Paraguay River Nature and Wildlife Boat Tour from Asunción

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 63 reviews · 5 to 6 hours (approx.) · from $160Top rated

Leave Asunción for Puerto Olivares, then cruise the Manduvira and Paraguay rivers with guides such as Alberto, Esteban, Isaak, or Guillermo. Expect expert bird spotting, possible monkeys and caimans, homemade food, a covered boat, and a memorable sunrise or sunset. The small group is capped at eight people.

“I had the BEST DAY. I cannot say enough about the quality of this tour! The guides are friendly, easy going, speak excellent English and have an incredible knowledge and understanding of the wildlife and ecosystems here. We saw so many species of birds and we even spotted gold and black howler monkeys! The binoculars they give you for the day are great quality, too. I had all my questions answered and I honestly just felt so happy the entire day. Going to the confluence of the Manduvira and Paraguay rivers in the boat was unforgettable. The guides and the boat driver made this day so special for me; a…”

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4.Rainforest Wildlife, Panama Hat makers, Traditional Cuisine. SHORE TOUR

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 55 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $110

This six-hour Manta shore tour combines the Pacoche forest, local fishing life, San Lorenzo seafood, and Montecristi Panama hats. Guides such as Juan, Chris, Brian, and Alex have led past departures. Expect a changing pace, simple local meals, possible monkeys and sloths, and a forest walk that can be shortened by weather, fitness, or ship timing.

“The guide Chris was fantastic, the rainforest information and beach lunch was excellent. Great to see how panama hats are made. Purchased one as well, bus was right on schedule to drop us off.”

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5.Punta Arenas: Dolphin & Wildlife Watching

★★★★★★★★★★4.1 · 45 reviews · 3h 30m · from $190

Set out from Punta Arenas at 8:00 a.m. for Agua Fresca Bay, then board a small boat with an English or Spanish speaking guide. Search for southern, or Peale’s, dolphins near the coast, watch seabirds in nearby bays, and travel along the Strait of Magellan. Warm layers and waterproof footwear matter.

“It was a great experience! The guides were not only very nice and friendly, but also had extensive knowledge and experience and made us feel like we were in good hands! I highly recommend!”

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6.Safari Experience – Wildlife & Steppe

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 40 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $175

Travel by 4x4 through Estancia 25 de Mayo with guides such as Federico, Guillermo, Cristian, or Sergio. Look for guanacos, rheas, foxes, condors, hares, and native birds, then enjoy wine, mate, and a traditional meal at the estancia. The relaxed, low-effort format works well on arrival or departure days.

“Passando per panorami bellissimi si osservano fauna e flora di questo incredibile territorio, una guida preparata ed attenta infine la sosta per mangiare ci fa scoprire una tipica abitazione della estancia”

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