South America Senior Cruises

If you’re exploring South America, your options are as vast as this huge continent: cosmopolitan cities, indigenous cultures, the pristine natural beauty of mountains, fjords, or rainforests, and even the farthest reaches of the globe in Antarctica. Booking one of our South American cruises will help you see far more of this adventurous expanse than you ever could on foot.

What is the best time to cruise South America?

Since all of South America is in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons are opposite to those in the U.S. and other northern countries. This means that the high season for most cruise lines (late spring through mid-autumn) will run in South America from November to early May. Even during this milder season, climates can vary vastly from region to region, from tropical and toasty to chilly and cold. Of course, the farther you go from the equator, the colder the climate gets.

No matter the season, remember that you can save on your bookings as an AARP member.

What are the best South American cruises for seniors?

Different types of cruises cater to different types of travelers, whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, with family, or with a group.

• Viking Ocean Cruises: Viking cruises target older travelers interested in culture, history, and local cuisine. Viking Ocean Cruises sail South America & the Chilean Fjords, and their offerings place a special emphasis on unique cultural excursions and cuisine inspired by local flavors. The ships’ design is sleek and Scandinavian, and on-board offerings cater to the educational or relaxing (no casinos here).
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This is all-inclusive luxury at its finest. Most passengers on Regent cruises are 55 and older, and they also offer extended cruise itineraries, for those looking for longer voyages. This cruise line offers personalized service (a 1:1.5 staff-to-passenger ratio), all-inclusive pricing, and disability accessible suites. All ships have multiple dining venues and also serve dinner at the pool grill, where guests can dine while watching the sunset.

What’s the best South American cruise itinerary?

South American cruises typically take one of two routes: the Amazon, or Round-the-Horn.

• The Amazon: The ports of call for these cruises typically include a stop in Brazil and Uruguay, and end in Argentina. Here you’ll find plenty of jungle sightseeing tours and stops in small towns and villages. You’ll sail along the Amazon River, of course, and then head out to the Atlantic and down the coast of Brazil. Highlights here focus more on city stops, including Rio de Janeiro.
• Round-the-Horn: These cruises typically run 12 days or longer, since there’s so much territory to cover. Typically starting in Buenos Aires, these itineraries often include the breathtaking Chilean fjords and the deserts and mountains of Patagonia. Some cruises include excursions to Antarctica from Cape Horn, the southernmost point of South America.

*Prices are cruise only, per person, double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses not included. Rates are valid for US and Canadian residents only. Fuel supplement may apply. Savings advertised and Expedia Extras are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates, and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings.