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.

South America cruises

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.

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Queen Anne's South America Discovery, 2027

Join Queen Anne as she sails to South America, including many maiden ports for the ship. What little anecdotes could fill your postcard? Perhaps all the elaborate costumes you saw at Carnival, during an epic night over in Rio? You could make the most of your route and take time to see Machu Picchu on an overland adventure. Or you could simply bask in all the sights and sounds you sail past, along South America's ineffable coast.

South America Discovery benefits

Cunard Grills photoshoot with Alpha Century
IMAGE RETOUCHED 27TH JUNE 2018.
Picture date: Friday June 1, 2018.
Photograph by Christopher Ison ©
07544044177
chris@christopherison.com
www.christopherison.com

When you book a South America Discovery voyage on the Cunard Fare, you'll enjoy the following benefits and special events:

Welcome on board reception
Access to a private lounge
Concierge Service
Unique commemorative gift
Cocktail event on board
Shoreside gala event
Inclusive hotel and dining charge

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South America cruises special offers

Explore South America

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.

Statue of Christ in Brazil, with dusk clouds in the back ground

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Renowned for its spectacular carnival and iconic landmarks, and cradled between cascading mountains and the South Atlantic, Rio is among the most breathtaking harbour cities in the world.

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Santiago, Chile

In Chile’s capital, grand colonial buildings stand proudly among glass skyscrapers and elegant parks. Discover beautiful architecture, fascinating history and sumptuous local cuisine against a dramatic backdrop of snow-dusted mountains.

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UNESCO-listed Salvador de Bahia is bursting with historical charm, traditional Brazilian flair, and Western African influences

Salvador, Brazil

Salvador is dubbed the Brazilian capital of happiness. It’s a fine example of the country’s rich cultural history, beautiful architecture and adventurous cuisine.

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View all ports in South America

The spirit of South America

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.

Be inspired

Colourful cuisine and fun-filled activities aren't just for visits to shore: on a Cunard cruise, your on board experience is sure to be just as magical. Read our articles for inspiration from on board and on shore, and start planning your future Cunard adventure.

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

Radiant Rio

Cunard guests visiting the pulsating, exhilarating Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro will find themselves in one of the most colorful, musical places in the world. With delicious cuisines, stunning scenery and its famous carnival atmosphere, Rio has new delights waiting around every corner.

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A group of friends play shuffleboard on deck on Queen Mary 2

A world of possibilities

Dip your toe into the Cunard experience as we explore a dozen ways to spend your time on board, from exciting guest speakers and theater to fitness and art classes.

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On board Queen Victoria

A welcoming ambiance and space to relax await on board Queen Victoria. Discover unique, stylish settings, such as the winter garden and expanded sun deck, while you journey to vibrant cities and stunning natural landscapes in South America.

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More destinations to explore

Wild caribbean beach of Manzanillo at Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica; Shutterstock ID 445483732; Invoice Number: -

Panama Canal and Central America

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Piti and Gros Piton mountains, St. Lucia

Caribbean

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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.