View our latest SAT newsletter for travel inspiration and product highlights in South America.
South American Tours
South American Tours
SAT NEWS - CROSS-BORDER TRAVEL
April 2024

Dear Travel Partner,

As explorers of our beloved South America, we understand that the true essence of adventure knows no boundaries. In this newsletter, we invite you to explore some lesser-known cross-border travel by land, offering routes through breathtaking scenery in the spirit of 'the journey is the reward'. SAT is your trusted one-stop DMC, dedicated to creating seamless experiences and facilitating the exploration of unique country combinations. Enjoy reading and let the journey begin! 

Good news: our popular fixed departure German SIC tours (Zubucherreisen) will continue to be available in the upcoming 2024/25 season and we will also be reactivating some of our English SIC tours. The updated tours will be added to our website in due course. 

Meet the SAT team at the following upcoming events:

AdventureELEVATE in Quito, Ecuador from 6-8 May.
The conference organised by the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA)
will be held for the first time in South America.
Contact us to make an appointment!

IMEX in Frankfurt, Germany from May 14-16.
We invite you to visit us at the Embratur Brazil Stand C100, Hall 8.
Contact us to make an appointment!

All the best,
Your SAT Team

Also check out our Website, Facebook & Instagram for latest updates!
Peru & Chile: From the Andes to the Desert
Picture credit: EL GUILLE! (2); SERNATUR (3)
Experience a two-week adventure from the Andean highlands of Peru to the arid beauty of the Atacama Desert. On arrival in Lima, explore the 'City of Kings' before flying to the colonial city of Arequipa. From here, embark on an excursion to the Colca Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world, with a stop at the village of Chivay at 3,600m (11,811ft) and the hot springs of La Calera. See the majestic Andean condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint before returning to Arequipa. The journey takes you to Tacna, where you can visit historical sites such as the 'Campo Santo de Alto de la Alianza', a complex that commemorates the Battle of the Alliance Heights in 1880, and the 'Arco Parabolico', a monument built in honour of the soldiers who served the country during the War of the Pacific. From Tacna, take the historic train across the border into Chile along its 62km (38,5mi) route. The train is Peru's southernmost tourist railway and the second oldest in operation, with a refurbished and modernised carriage. In the far north of Chile, Arica is an oasis of green valleys and beautiful beaches in the middle of the world's driest desert. Traces of territorial wars can also be seen here. Today, Arica is an important transit and trading port due to its proximity to Peru and Bolivia. The city's landmark is the 'Morro de Arica', a steep rocky hill that houses several fortresses and offers a superb view of the port and city. Discover the nearby Lauca National Park at the foot of the Andes and the Altiplano, with its volcanoes, lagoons and caves, before heading to San Pedro de Atacama. Explore the surreal landscapes of Salar de Atacama and Lagunas Miscanti & Miñiques, surrounded by volcanic peaks and salt flats. Experience the geothermal wonders of El Tatio Geyser in the morning and watch the sun set over Moon Valley in the afternoon. Finally, take a flight to Santiago and complete your journey with a panoramic view of Chile's capital from San Cristóbal Hill before departing.
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Colombia & Ecuador: Natural and Cultural Riches
Embark on a 14-day journey through Colombia and Ecuador, where each day promises new adventures and cultural discoveries. Start your trip in Colombia's capital, Bogotá. Wander the colonial streets of La Candelaria, visit the famous Gold Museum and take a cable car ride to Monserrate for panoramic views. Next, drive to Neiva and explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Tatacoa Desert, known for its surreal rock formations and towering cacti. Spend an evening stargazing at a local observatory before heading to San Agustín. Delve into the rich coffee culture with a visit to Finca La Cabaña, where you'll learn about coffee production from bean to brew. Explore the archaeological wonders of the San Agustín Archaeological Park, home to iconic statues and ancient tombs from civilisations thousands of years old. Continue to Popayán, known as the 'White City of Colombia', and stroll through its well-preserved colonial centre. Then travel to Pasto for a historic city tour to see the most famous temples and shop for some of the region's famous handicrafts. From Pasto, visit the Laguna de la Cocha, a stunning lagoon surrounded by lush landscapes. Drive to Ipiales, passing through the Nudo de los Pastos, the point where the Andes divide into the Western and Central Cordilleras. In Ipiales, near the border with Ecuador, visit the Sanctuary of Las Lajas and take the cable car for panoramic views of this impressive Gothic basilica built over the canyon of the Guáitara River. Cross the Rumichaca Bridge into Ecuador and continue to Hacienda Pantavi in Tumbabiro, nestled in the northern Ecuadorian mountain range. Soak up the vibrant culture, music and dance of the Afro-Ecuadorian community in nearby Chota Valley and explore traditional woodcraft workshops in Ibarra. In Otavalo, discover the natural beauty of the Cuicocha Lagoon, stroll through Otavalo's famous indigenous market and take a cooking class with a local family. On your way to Quito, stop at the Equatorial Monument 'Quitsato Sundial' and its museum. Explore the capital's colonial heritage on a walking tour of Quito's old town and visit the Alabado Pre-Columbian Art Museum, the perfect end to your Colombia and Ecuador adventure.
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Chile & Argentina: Patagonia's Lakes District
Picture credit: SERNATUR (1,4), Inprotur (2)
Patagonia's Lake District awaits you with diverse cultures and picturesque landscapes on this 14-day panoramic tour. After arriving in Santiago, fly to Temuco and travel on to Pucón in the Araucanía region. Explore the city, from its bustling streets to the Villarrica volcano and shores of Lake Villarrica. Head east to the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve, a sanctuary in the Patagonian rainforest surrounded by the Andean Cordillera. Explore lush forests, cascading waterfalls and unique wildlife, and stay in one of the reserve's eco-friendly lodges, such as the Montaña Mágica Lodge. Drive through the Araucaria forest to Puerto Fuy, where you board the Hua Hum barge for a 27km (17mi) journey across the Lake Pirehueico. Cross the Chile-Argentina border to San Martín de los Andes, a peaceful town on the shores of Lake Lacar in Argentine Patagonia. The scenic Route of the Seven Lakes leads to the lively town of Bariloche, set in the Nahuel Huapi National Park and famous for its alpine lakeside streets surrounded by crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped mountains. From here, many set off on the lake crossing by catamaran from Bariloche to Puerto Varas, along the lakes of Todos Los Santos, Frías and Nahuel Huapi. A great alternative is to cross the border by land, following the lesser known Cardenal Samoré Pass. This involves bordering Lake Nahuel Huapi and crossing the Limay River. Continue through the Argentine steppe to Villa La Angostura and take the route along the Correntoso and Espejo lakes, climbing to 1,321m (4,335ft) to the border. After completing the necessary formalities, you will return to Chilean territory. Pass through the Puyehue National Park, declared a Biosphere Reserve, with 107,000 hectares of protected wilderness. Relax in the spa and thermal waters of the Termas de Puyehue Hotel before continuing to Puerto Varas, stopping en route at Frutillar, where you can taste the best 'apple strudel' in the region, influenced by its German immigrants. Explore the surrounding area of Puerto Varas, from the Petrohué waterfalls to the Osorno Volcano and beyond. Finally, enjoy a panoramic drive to Puerto Montt, before flying back to Santiago.
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Brazil & Argentina: Wildlife, Waterfalls & Wetlands
Your two-week nature & wildlife adventure starts in Rio de Janeiro. Along with iconic visits to Sugar Loaf and Corcovado Mountain, you will actively explore the city's surroundings with a bike tour along the southern coast, starting at Copacabana Beach and ending near Lagoa, the city's picturesque lake, and a scenic hike in Tijuca National Park to Tijuca Peak, with panoramic views of the rainforest. From Rio, fly to Iguassu, one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls. Start by visiting the Brazilian side of the falls to soak up the full scale of the cascades. Crossing into Argentina, you'll explore the Argentinean side of the Iguazú National Park, boarding the park's ecological train to reach the different circuits along the Iguazú Canyon. A highlight is the walk across the river to the Devil's Throat, one of the highest waterfalls. Continue your adventure at Yacutinga Lodge & Private Reserve, nestled in the lush tropical rainforest. Immerse yourself in the surrounding nature with outdoor activities such as birdwatching, canoeing and forest walks, while encountering a variety of wildlife including jaguars, toucans, howler monkeys and caimans. Back in Iguazú, continue to the Esteros del Ibará, stopping en route at the Jesuit mission of San Igancio. At Estancia Puerto Valle, you'll find yourself in the middle of one of the world's largest nature reserves and wetlands. Spend your days exploring this pristine wilderness with horseback riding, canoeing, forest hikes and wildlife watching, including caimans, capybaras and deer. Conclude your nature experience with a flight from Posadas to Buenos Aires. Pedal through the bustling streets of Argentina's capital on a guided bike tour, exploring both the southern and northern districts before departing Buenos Aires.
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Picture credit: Embratur, Christian Knepper (1), Yacutina Lodge (2-3), Puerto Valle (4) 
Peru, Bolivia & Chile: Salt Flats and Andean Mountains
The Andean highlands are a haven of breathtaking landscapes, scenic contrasts and indigenous cultures. Start your 16-day exploration in Lima and discover the city's historic centre, archaeological wonders and culinary delights. Fly on to Cusco, the heart of the ancient Inca Empire. Board the train to Machu Picchu, where you'll see the legendary ruins and learn about their fascinating history. From Cusco, cross the Altiplano and travel overland to Puno, stopping en route to explore Andahuaylillas and its beautiful chapel, the temple of Wiracocha at Racchi and the town of Pucara. Visit the Incas' sacred Lake Titicaca, at 3,800m (12,500ft) the highest navigable lake above sea level, with the famous Uros Islands. Travel along the shores to the Bolivian border at Kasani and on to the religious town of Copacabana in Bolivia. Take an eco-friendly catamaran to Cocotoni to explore the southern part of Sun Island and the island's most spectacular ruins complex. Travel overland to La Paz and discover the city's highlights, from witch doctor markets to a cable car ride to El Alto and the bizarre rock formations of nearby Moon Valley. Continue to Sucre, Bolivia's official capital and most beautiful city, with its colonial architecture and museums, and Potosí, once one of the richest cities in the world thanks to its silver mines. Explore a colonial mine and learn about the city's fascinating past. Arriving in Uyuni, hop in a jeep and drive to Colchani to visit the railway cemetery and Incahuasi Island with its giant cacti in the middle of the salt flats. Spend the night in a salt hotel. The next day, visit the Ollagüe volcano viewpoint and the mineral-rich lakes of Hedionda, Chiarkhota and Honda, and drive through the otherworldly landscapes of the Siloli Desert to your simple accommodation in Ojo de Perdiz. Explore the Eduardo Avaroa National Park, including the colourful Laguna Colorada and Sol de Mañana, a high geyser basin. Cross the border into Chile at Hito Cajon and travel to San Pedro de Atacama. Explore the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert, from salt lakes to volcanoes, before concluding your journey with a flight from Calama to Santiago.
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Chile, Argentina & Uruguay: From Vineyards to Coastlines
Immerse yourself in South America's rich wine culture on this 15-day tour, complemented by cultural explorations and scenic delights. Get a taste of Chilean culture in Santiago as you explore the city's diverse neighbourhoods. Venture beyond Santiago and visit internationally renowned wineries in the Casablanca Valley, including a delicious wine tasting. Continue to the Pacific coast to discover the highlights of Valparaíso, famous for its colourful hillside houses and ocean views. Visit the whimsical home and museum of Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda on Isla Negra, a testament to his creative genius and love of the sea. Then drive to Santa Cruz, nestled among the rolling hills and vineyards of the Colchagua Valley. Back in Santiago, take a full day panoramic drive over the Andes to Argentina. Climb the windy mountain roads with its legendary 29 curves to the border. Once in Argentina, pass through the Aconcagua National Park to Mendoza. Take a wine tour of Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo or the Uco Valley and taste the region's signature varietals. Visit the Altos Limpios and the Huarpes indigenous community or take a high mountain tour with a short trek to the Quebrada del Durazno. Then fly to Buenos Aires and explore the capital's diverse neighbourhoods and lively markets, and enjoy a tango show and typical asado dinner. Cross the Rio de la Plata by ferry to Uruguay and explore the colonial streets and waterfront of Colonia del Sacramento. Continue to Carmelo and stop en route for a wine tasting at the historic Cordano Winery before ending the day at the luxurious Narbona Wine Lodge. Walk through the cellar and enjoy one of the region's finest Tannat wines. Your final stop is Montevideo, Uruguay's vibrant capital. Take a tour of the city's most famous sights and enjoy lunch at Bodega Bouza, combined with a visit to the winery and an excellent final wine tasting. Leave Montevideo with a heart full of experiences and a taste for more.
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Argentina & Bolivia: The Spirit of the Altiplano
Picture credit: Crillon Tours (3)
Your 14-day adventure to the heart of Argentina and Bolivia begins in Buenos Aires, from where you'll venture into the pampas for an gaucho experience at a traditional estancia, complete with a typical asado (BBQ). Next, fly to Tucumán and find tranquillity amidst the breathtaking scenery of Tafi del Valle, where you'll stay at the charming Estancia las Carreras. Your journey continues to Cafayate, surrounded by vineyards and mountains. Explore the historic ruins of Quilmes, a testament to Argentina's rich indigenous heritage. From Cafayate, take a day trip through the Quebrada de las Flechas, a natural monument of eroding rock formations, to Molinos, a small colonial village. Back in Cafayate, visit one of the many wineries for a wine tasting before continuing along the Quebrada de las Conchas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its bizarre rock formations and multicoloured mountains, to the old colonial city of Salta. From Salta, drive north through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a 130km (81mi) canyon, to Purmamarca, where the Seven Colours Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the village. The range of colours is typical of the pastel, largely vegetation-free hills of the Puna region. Cross the border into Bolivia at La Quiaca/Villazòn and continue via Tupiza to Uyuni, passing through the beautiful landscapes of the Chichas Valley, the Devil's Pass and the mining town of Atocha. Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you traverse the Uyuni Salt Flats in Deluxe Airstream campers, complete with luxurious amenities and gourmet cuisine. Explore the surreal landscapes of the world's largest salt flat, covering over 10,000 sq km (3,900 sq mi). When dry, it's a vast expanse of white against a blue sky. In the rainy season, the surface becomes a mirror, reflecting clouds and sky and blurring the horizon. Visit Incahuasi Island, with its seaweed and fossil formations, and the small village of Tahua at the foot of the Thunupa volcano. Wander the village and hike to the Coquesa Mummies Cave. As the sun sets over the white desert, enjoy cocktails and watch the colours light up the sky. When it's time to say goodbye, you are transferred from Jirira to Uyuni airport for your return flight from La Paz.
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HOTEL NEWS SOUTH AMERICA
Santa Cruz Lodge, Caraz
Santa Cruz Lodge, a new Casa Andina partner hotel, is located 45 minutes from the centre of Caraz, Peru, at an altitude of 2900m in the foothills of the Huascaran National Park, next to the impressive Santa Cruz Trek.
MC Sirius, Galapagos
The new motor catamaran Galaxy Sirius offers luxury boutique cruising in the Galapagos with 3 different 5-6 day itineraries; 9 cabins (22-25sqm) for max. 16 guests, bright public areas and a sun deck with Jacuzzi.
Naio Hotel, Palomino
The newly opened Naio Hotel & Villas in Palomino, Colombia, offers jungle or beachside accommodations, each with private pools, bars and dining options. The 11 rooms and 92 villas promise a relaxing, comfortable stay.
FLIGHT NEWS SOUTH AMERICA
New Chile-Argentina flights
JetSMART started operating 4 weekly flights between Santiago & Mendoza on March 4th (Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun) and 3 weekly flights between Concepción and Buenos Aires on March 20th (Mon, Wed, Sun).
New Peru-Colombia flights
JetSMART launches 2 weekly flights between Lima & Pereira from July 4th, expanding its presence in Colombia, adding Pereira as its fourth destination in the country, along with Cúcuta, Cartagena & Medellín. 
New US-Colombia flights
United Airlines launches daily nonstop flights between Houston & Medellin from Oct 27th, expanding United's presence in Colombia and complementing existing service from Houston and Newark to Bogota.
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South American Tours - Global Sales Office
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South American Tours de Uruguay Agencia de Viajes S.A. | Buenos Aires 618, Piso 2, Oficina 201 | 11000 Montevideo | Uruguay
Tel.: +59 82 91 60 050 | Fax.: +59 82 91 55 406 | E-mail: info@southamericantours.com
Managing Director: Federico Büker | Registered Office: Montevideo | Local Court: Montevideo | Commercial Register: 1194 (Ministry of Tourism) | VAT identification no.: 215224020014
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