Travel to South America in August

August brings some of the clearest, driest weather of the year to the Andes, making it one of the best months for high-altitude exploration.

In Peru, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu enjoy crisp mornings, sunny days, and cool evenings, perfect for trekking the Inca Trail or venturing into remote routes like Choquequirao. Bolivia’s highlands offer postcard-perfect views over Lake Titicaca, and clear conditions in the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve reveal flamingo-filled lagoons against snow-dusted peaks. In Ecuador’s highlands, August is a favorite for climbing and hiking, with sweeping volcano views and colorful local markets in full swing.

The Galápagos sees cooler seas and brisker winds, but nutrient-rich waters bring extraordinary marine life — penguins dart through shallow bays, sea lions are playful, and frigatebirds soar in full breeding display. Waved albatross are still nesting on Española, and whale sightings are possible in surrounding waters.

The Amazon’s lower water levels open up forest trails and make riverbank wildlife spotting — from caimans to giant river otters — even easier. In Brazil’s Pantanal, the dry season continues to deliver world-class jaguar and birdwatching. Colombia’s Caribbean coast remains sunny, ideal for pairing Cartagena’s history with Tayrona’s beaches. In southern Patagonia, winter scenery is at its most dramatic, with snow-dusted peaks, icy fjords, and frozen waterfalls perfect for photography. Wildlife such as guanacos and foxes are more visible in the quiet landscapes, and select lodges offer intimate stays surrounded by pristine, snowy wilderness.