Cheap flights to South America

South America embodies a soul that’s found nowhere else in the world. And each country has its own traditions and cultures; from the highly extrovert Brazilian samba to the deeply sacred pilgrimage site of Las Lajas in Colombia.

The two largest countries in the continent, Brazil and Argentina, are perhaps the most diverse. And most travellers booking flights to South America choose to combine a trip to both countries. Brazil is a blend of diverse cultures: Portuguese, native Indian, African, European, Middle Eastern and Asian all living in this wild and exciting land. While in Argentina its European influences dominate its art, architecture, literature and lifestyle. But what both countries do have in common is the Iguazú Falls, the spectacular 275 cascading waterfalls which are taller than Niagara Falls and possibly one of the most unforgettable sights in the world.    

North of Argentina is Bolivia, a country nestled between the Andes and the Amazon rainforests. Because of its isolation the country has retained the ancient traditions of its ancestors, making it a fascinating and mysterious place to visit. Bolivia’s neighbour, Peru, is just as captivating; its history dates back to the Inca Empire with Machu Picchu, its most illustrious symbol. The countries in the northern end of South America including Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela might not be as renowned for their ancient wonders as the other countries but what they do have is a natural beauty – spectacular landscapes, tropical rainforests, and pristine beaches – that makes them inimitable.

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South America climate

South America can be split into four climatic zones: tropical, dry, cold and temperate. Depending on which area of the continent you’re visiting, the elevation and weather factors including rain and wind contribute to the climate variations, making it unpredictable and erratic in some areas.

When is the best time to fly to South America?

Argentina and Brazil, both in the Southern Hemisphere, can be visited all year round but most people prefer to book flights to South America during peak season – mid December to early March – when the weather is hot and humid. But if you’d rather avoid paying top dollar for South America flights and accommodations, then the best time to go is in winter between the months of June and October. Chile, also in the Southern Hemisphere, has climactic variations from the north to south. The north can be visited at any time of the year while central and southern Chile should be avoided from June to September when snowfall can get heavy.

The Andean countries including Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia and Peru have two distinct seasons: wet and dry, and depending on the altitude and proximity to the equator, each country’s peak season will differ slightly.

Bolivia has the most unpredictable weather in South America, thanks to its topography and altitude. Generally the best time to visit is during the dry season between May and October. Peru is another country with complicated weather due to its high elevation and close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The best time to visit is summer, from January to March when days are hot and humid.

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Getting around South America

Internal South America flights are the most convenient, but not necessarily the cheapest way to get around from one country to the next. While visiting Brazil, for example, internal flights are notoriously expensive so it’s a good idea to get a Brazil Pass which allows you to take a few internal flights and is cheaper than purchasing tickets separately. Or if you’re planning on travelling between Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Brazil, you should consider buying a Mercosur Air Pass that will allow for two stops in each country. Read more about this and other available air passes in our Air Pass travel tip. 

Buses are the next most popular form of transport, to some the only form, and provide a cheaper alternative to flying and a great way to see the country. However it’s not always advisable to take overnight buses especially in Ecuador and Peru where armed robberies on night buses are not uncommon.

In addition to being expensive, hiring and driving a car can be dangerous and inconvenient but taxis in most major cities are available and can be hired for long journeys.

Cycling isn’t encouraged in the majority of South American countries – particularly in Colombia and Guyana – where the quality of the roads can be poor.

How long is the flight to South America?

Flight times to South America depend entirely on which city you’re flying to, and which route you are taking. Since Singapore and South America are so far apart, there are no direct flights. Popular destinations to consider when you book flights to South America include Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Buenos Aires in Argentina, Lima in Peru and Santiago in Chile. Flights from Singapore’s Changi Airport (SIN) to Rio de Janeiro Galeao – Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG) will take around 27h via Doha (DOH) and Sao Paulo (GRU). Flights to Lima will take around 29h via Paris – Charles de Gaulle (CDG).

What is the best way to travel around South America?

If you intend to travel to multiple countries on this continent, flying is your only real option, so it's a good idea to compare flights to South America. You shouldn’t have too much of a problem finding cheap flights, though you may have to check how long your journey will take. Remember, you will need to have at least one stopover and probably at least one flight change when you book flights to South America. Train travel may also be an option in some cases but flying will get the job done more quickly. Popular city pairings on the continent include Rio to Sao Paulo and Buenos Aires to Santiago.

What do I need to do before my flight to South America?

These are very long multi-stop flights so make sure you get enough rest before you leave. If you have the time and you’d prefer to break up your journey at your stopover point, then both DOH and CDG have some airport hotel options very close by. Searching for South America flight deals will help you find the best options based on your travel preferences. Stay well hydrated on the flights, and chat with your doctor about some tablets to help you sleep if you’re a restless flyer. With their strong passport, Singaporean citizens do not need visas for most countries in South America. However, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your return, or you may be held up at passport control.

What are some things to do in South America?

There are many things to do in South America, from going to Rio for the Carnival, to Buenos Aires in Argentina for the beef and tango or to the famous Machu Picchu in Peru, South America is filled with special places to visit and great events to enjoy. Known as an Inca citadel, Machu Picchu dates from the 15th Century and is believed to have been the home and significant grounds of an Incan emperor. Check to see if cheap flights to South America also include accommodation and a tour of this site. Situated way up in the Andes is Lake Titicaca which is known as a very high navigable lake. Colca Canyon is the continent’s answer to the Grand Canyon, while the Nazca Lines, shrouded and steeped in mystery, have left many wondering whether the earth was previously inhabited by aliens.