What is the best time to cruise to South America?

South American summers begin in November, with fall prolonging comfortable temperatures until March. As it's in the Southern Hemisphere, the more southern countries tend to have cooler climates, similar to the Scandinavian region of Europe. When you pack, prepare for a range of weathers and temperatures so you can make the most of your cruise.

Sugarloaf mountain and skyline of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Shutterstock ID 795327058

Cruises to South America

Around this vibrant continent, you’ll find desert, jungle, mountains and glaciers, and some truly legendary cities. This continent of sprawling cities and colonial towns is balanced by huge swathes of wilderness. Culture, traditions, cuisines and dialects vary greatly making a cruise an ideal way to compare them.

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Our exciting South America destinations

Vibrant rainforest, icy glaciers and crumbling colonial towns. South America thrives with spirit, soul and passion. A continent abundant with natural wonder, where life beats to its own drum.

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South America cruise routes

Stops in the Caribbean and Florida precede your arrival in South America. Discover Argentine tango in Buenos Aires, sail through Chile’s Beagle Channel and savor fresh ceviche in Peru.

Boat in Fort Lauderdale, Shutterstock ID: 261715763

Cruise destinations from Fort Lauderdale

Deep dive into Brazil to discover the Amazon and the Rio Carnival. Explore colorful Cartagena, cruise by Cape Horn in Chile, or enjoy a glass of Malbec in Argentina.

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile; Shutterstock ID 478667407

Cruise destinations from South America

Travel from Brazil to Chile, via Cape Horn, with a port call in Montevideo. Or swap South America’s shores for Fort Lauderdale and medieval ruins in southern England.

Be inspired

Explore our favourite destinations and our recommendations for your time on board with our inspirational articles. From the history and colour of Rio de Janeiro to the relaxation of our water-inspired Mareel Spa, there is something for everyone on a Cunard voyage.

Waves of wellbeing

As the sea-inspired Mareel® Wellness & Beauty holistic spa is welcomed on Cunard cruises, we explore how the ocean can bring health benefits to mind, body and soul.

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Rio de Janeiro city skyline view from Sugarloaf mountain, Brazil; Shutterstock ID 1061173493; Invoice Number: -

Radiant Rio

With delicious cuisines, stunning scenery and its famous carnival atmosphere, Rio has new delights waiting around every corner.

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Raising the chocolate bar

Join us as we celebrate the world's most famous sweet treat with a special Cunard cake recipe from our Executive Chef.

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Frequently asked questions about South America

The varied climate and terrain of South America make it a fantastic place to sightsee. The driest place on earth, the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, covers over 40,000 square miles, and includes green salt lakes and two observatories. Further south, see for yourself the growing (not shrinking) Perito Moreno Glacier of Chile, and the famed jagged cliffs around Cape Horn.

On the other side of the continent, you have Fernando de Noronha, a volcanic archipelago off Brazil's eastern coast, a place so beautiful and precious only 400 people a day are allowed to visit. Last - but certainly not least - there is the famous Christ the Redeemer, a statue standing 30 meters tall on the peak of Corcovado mountain, looking down over the iconic city of Rio de Janeiro.

South America is in the Southern Hemisphere: the further south you travel, the cooler the days become. The best advice is to pack layers - including jackets and jumpers - so that as you travel you can adapt easily to the temperature. As the port calls often beckon you to explore on foot, or even hike, comfortable shoes and clothing are highly recommended so you can make the most of your time ashore.

Sun protection is also a must, and although you may not encounter rain, we suggest a light waterproof jacket to be on the safe side. As on every Cunard cruise, be sure to pack swimwear and formal wear, so you can make the most of our pools and spa facilities, and enjoy our glittering Gala Evenings in all their splendor.