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Active Holidays in Latin America

From trekking through Patagonia and exploring rainforest trails in Costa Rica to discovering volcanoes, deserts and ancient routes in Peru and Chile, active holidays in Latin America combine extraordinary landscapes with immersive travel experiences across South and Central America.

The Best Active Travel Experiences in Latin America

For adventure-focused travellers, Latin America presents an inspiring mix of landscapes and experiences shaped by both nature and culture. Trek through the towering peaks of the Andes, explore the vast desert scenery of Chile’s Atacama Desert, or discover the glaciers, fjords and wetlands of Patagonia in Argentina and Chile. One of the region’s most iconic experiences, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru, remains a rewarding journey for those seeking a true sense of achievement. From trekking to Colombia’s Lost City and exploring wildlife-rich trails in the Galápagos Islands to sleeping beneath Patagonia’s open skies, opportunities for exploration are wide-ranging and deeply memorable.

Beyond hiking, there are countless ways to experience the outdoors across South and Central America. Surf along the Pacific coast in Máncora, take on white water rafting in Argentina, or explore Uruguay’s countryside on horseback alongside local gauchos. Wildlife and nature experiences are equally compelling, from birdwatching at canopy level in Costa Rica and jaguar tracking in Brazil’s Pantanal to river expeditions through the Amazon Rainforest. For those drawn to physical challenges, volcano hikes, glacier trekking, kayaking and 4x4 desert routes create unforgettable outdoor adventures shaped by extraordinary natural landscapes. Slower-paced experiences, such as cycling Argentina’s Seven Lakes route or stargazing in the Atacama Desert, allow time to fully absorb your surroundings.

Whether your interests lie in trekking, wildlife encounters, cultural exploration or immersive outdoor experiences, Latin America offers a rewarding balance of activity, nature and discovery. Our Travel Specialists create tailor-made active holidays designed around your pace, interests and preferred style of travel, helping you experience some of the world’s most remarkable landscapes in a way that feels personal and unforgettable.

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Hiking & Trekking

Torres del Paine, Chile

Snorkel
Canyoning

Rio Blanco Canyon, Costa Rica

Aztec
Culture Trek

Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Peru

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Natural Wonders

Glacier Trek, Argentina

Why Choose an Active Holiday in Latin America?

✔️ Diverse landscapes
From the peaks of the Andes to lush rainforests and vast desert regions, Latin America offers a remarkable range of natural settings for adventure.

✔️ World class hiking and trekking
Walk some of the region’s most iconic routes, including the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Patagonia’s W Trek, and the Lost City trek in Colombia.

✔️ Outdoor activities with real variety
Enjoy white water rafting in Argentina, volcano hikes in Costa Rica, or 4x4 journeys across Bolivia’s dramatic salt flats.

✔️ Exceptional wildlife encounters
Track jaguars in the Pantanal, explore the Amazon Rainforest, or snorkel among marine life in the Galápagos Islands.

✔️ Meaningful cultural experiences
Ride on horseback with gauchos in Uruguay, explore ancient sites such as Machu Picchu, and connect with local traditions throughout the region.

✔️ Adventure throughout the year
From summer trekking to winter glacier experiences, Latin America offers active travel opportunities in every season.

Our Top Active Holiday Ideas Track in Latin America
  • Trekking in Patagonia: Hike the celebrated W Trek in Torres del Paine or explore Argentina’s striking Fitz Roy range, where granite peaks and open landscapes define every day on the trail.
  • Volcano climbing in Costa Rica: Tackle the slopes of Arenal or Rincón de la Vieja, rewarding climbs that offer sweeping views and a powerful sense of place.
  • Cycling the Seven Lakes route, Argentina: Ride through Andean scenery framed by forests, mountains and clear lakes on one of Patagonia’s most scenic cycling routes.
  • Wildlife adventures in the Amazon Rainforest: Explore the rainforest by river and on foot, encountering rare wildlife and learning about one of the world’s most important ecosystems.
  • White water rafting in Argentina: Experience the energy of rivers such as the Mendoza or Futaleufú, known for their challenging rapids and dramatic surroundings.
  • Surfing in Máncora, Peru: Catch consistent waves along Peru’s northern coast, a relaxed surf destination with warm waters and a laid back atmosphere.
  • Kayaking in the Galápagos Islands: Paddle through clear waters alongside sea lions, turtles and marine iguanas, offering a unique way to experience the islands’ wildlife.
  • 4x4 adventures in Bolivia: Travel across the Uyuni Salt Flats and the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, where vast open spaces and striking landscapes define the journey.
  • Horse riding with gauchos in Uruguay: Spend time on a traditional estancia, exploring the countryside on horseback and gaining insight into rural Uruguayan life.
  • Stargazing in Chile’s Atacama Desert: Observe some of the clearest night skies in the world, with guided stargazing experiences that reveal the depth of the southern hemisphere sky.

Truly Individual Active Holidays

From Trekking and Hiking, To Kayaking and surfing - there's something for everyone in South America

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Truly Individual Holiday
Inca Trail Trek

Trek the Inca Trail on a 11-day trip to Peru culminating in visiting Machu Picchu at sunrise.

from £3349 pp
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Canyon Adventure rock face
Truly Individual Holiday
Ultimate Costa Rica Adventure

Costa Rica’s ultimate adventure holiday, where white-water rafting, canyon challenges, canopy zip-lines, and surf lessons meet stunning landscapes to create unforgettable memories. 

from £5899 pp
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Galapagos_Giant_Tortoise
Truly Individual Holiday
Galápagos Land Adventure Holiday

A 10-day journey to explore the Ecuadorian capital of Quito, before discovering the remarkable wildlife of this famous archipelago with our Galápagos Adventure holiday.

from £5499 pp
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Chile_Lake_District
Truly Individual Holiday
Highlights of Chile

On this 15-day holiday to Chile, you'll explore its highlights including Santiago, the Atacama Desert, Chilean Lake District and Torres del Paine.

from £7499 pp
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Chile_Patagonia_Lake
Truly Individual Holiday
Discover Patagonia

Discover the rugged beauty and pristine wilderness of Patagonia, travelling through both Chile & Argentina on a 20-day trip from Santiago to Buenos Aires.

from £8949 pp
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Colombia_Horseriding_Llanero_Culture
Truly Individual Holiday
Colombia Explorer 13-day Holiday

Discover the fascinating world of the llaneros (cowboys) on this 13-day tour taking in historical cities, expansive nature reserves and idyllic beaches

from £4849 pp
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Costa_Rica_Macaws_Osa_Peninsula
Truly Individual Holiday
Natural Wonders of Costa Rica

Discover Costa Rica’s volcanic landscapes, pristine rainforests, and serene beaches on a 15-day nature-rich adventure from hot springs to bat caves, and highlands to coastlines.  

from £4999 pp
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Panama_City_View
Truly Individual Holiday
Panama Self-Drive Adventure

Discover the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of Panama’s Pacific Coastline on this 18-day self-drive journey through the Anton Valley, Azuero Peninsula, The Gulf of Chiriquí and Boquete.

from £5999 pp
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Peru_Amazon_Caiman
Truly Individual Holiday
Andes to Amazon Adventure

Combine a classical Peru experience, unearthing the secrets of the Incas, with a 4-day encompassing Amazon River cruise adventure.

from £5149 pp
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Family in Corcovado, Osa Peninsula
Truly Individual Holiday
Costa Rica Family Adventure

The ultimate 13-day family adventure, where jungle treks, wildlife encounters, zip-lining, and volcanic landscapes create unforgettable memories. Speak to a Travel Specialist now.

from £6499 pp
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Mangroves And Forest, El Salvador Coastline
Truly Individual Holiday
El Salvador Adventure Holiday

Embark on an El Salvador adventure with volcano hikes, colourful towns, tropical beaches, and rich culture in one unforgettable journey.

from £3799 pp
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Llamas on the trekking route to Machu Picchu
Truly Individual Holiday
Family Inca Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 17-day adventure through Peru – discover the ancient land of the Incas, explore the vibrant Amazon Rainforest, and experience the coastal wonders of Paracas.

from £4699 pp
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Puma, Torres del Paine
Truly Individual Holiday
Southern Explorer

Discover southern Patagonia, north-east Argentina and the beaches of Brazil on our 29-day Southern Explorer holiday.

from £9200 pp
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Active Holidays FAQs

What is an active holiday in Latin America?

An active holiday in Latin America combines meaningful outdoor experiences with exploration and discovery. This might include guided trekking, cycling, wildlife exploration, kayaking or other nature based activities, balanced with comfortable accommodation and time to relax. Each itinerary is designed around your interests and preferred pace.

When is the best time to travel for an active holiday?

Latin America offers active travel opportunities throughout the year, with different regions best suited to different seasons. Trekking in Patagonia is popular during the Southern Hemisphere summer, while destinations such as Costa Rica, Colombia and parts of Central America work well for active travel during the UK winter months. Your Travel Specialist will advise on the best timing for your itinerary.

Do I need to be highly fit to enjoy an active holiday?

Active holidays are designed to suit a wide range of fitness levels. Experiences can be tailored from gentle walking and cycling to more challenging treks and outdoor pursuits. Your Travel Specialist will recommend activities that match your comfort level and interests.

Can active holidays be combined with culture or relaxation?

Yes, active holidays in Latin America are often combined with cultural experiences and time to unwind. Many travellers balance trekking or outdoor activities with city stays, beach time or wildlife experiences, creating a well rounded journey.

Which destinations are best for active holidays in Latin America?

Popular destinations for active travel include Patagonia for trekking, Costa Rica for wildlife and outdoor activities, Peru for high altitude walks and cultural routes, and Colombia for trekking and varied landscapes. Central America also offers excellent options for cycling, kayaking and nature based exploration.

Are active holidays suitable for families?

Some active holidays are well suited to families, particularly those focused on wildlife, soft adventure and outdoor exploration. Costa Rica is a popular choice for family active travel, with flexible itineraries and experiences suitable for different ages.

What type of accommodation is included on an active holiday?

Accommodation ranges from comfortable lodges and boutique hotels to characterful stays in remote locations. Latin Routes carefully selects properties that support recovery and relaxation after active days, without compromising on comfort or quality.

Can Latin Routes tailor an active holiday to my interests?

All active holidays with Latin Routes are tailor made. Your Travel Specialist will work closely with you to design an itinerary that reflects your interests, energy levels and preferred experiences, creating a journey that feels rewarding and personal.

How do I start planning an active holiday to Latin America?

You can explore our active holiday ideas online or speak directly with one of our Travel Specialists. We will help you shape an itinerary that combines movement, discovery and memorable experiences across Latin America.

Speak to a dedicated Travel Specialist today

What Our Clients Say About Us

What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?

Every journey we plan is truly individual – created just for you, by our expert team. Whether you’re dreaming of wildlife, culture, food or landscapes, 5* luxury or off-grid adventure, we’ll design a Latin American holiday that’s truly unforgettable for all the right reasons.

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Award-Winning Expertise

We’re recognised by both the industry and our clients for our outstanding personalised service.

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Tailor-Made Just for You

We design every trip around you: your interests, your must-sees, your perfect holiday.

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Latin America Specialists

Every recommendation is shaped by real experience, true passion and specialist care. 

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5-Stars on Trustpilot

Consistently rated ‘Excellent’ by our clients for our expert planning and personalised attention.

Award-Winning Service

We’re proud to have been recognised by the travel industry and our clients alike for the quality of what we do. Our awards include:
Small Tour Operator of the Year

TTG Travel Industry Awards 2021 & 2024

Best Trade Support Team

TTG Travel Industry Awards 2022

Best Tour Operator

LATA Excellence Awards 2025 and LATA Achievement Awards 2018 & 2019

Best Small Holiday Company to Central & South America

British Travel Awards 2016

Bronze for Favourite Tour Operator Specialist

Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2024

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Winners Logo Tour Operator Ôçô Small W (2)
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
BTA_2023_Best_SA_Travel_Company_Silver
Excellence Awards Winner