Travel to South America in October

October brings vibrant renewal to much of South America, with longer days, warmer temperatures, and landscapes coming to life.

In Chilean and Argentine Patagonia, spring wildflowers carpet valleys beneath snow-capped peaks, while wildlife — from guanacos to penguins — becomes more active as the breeding season begins. In the Atacama Desert, mild temperatures and clear skies make for comfortable exploration of geysers, salt flats, and lunar-like valleys. The Antarctic season begins as spring arrives, with pristine ice landscapes, early wildlife activity, and fewer visitors before the peak summer months.

Peru’s Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Machu Picchu remain firmly in the dry season, offering excellent trekking conditions and crisp Andean vistas, while Bolivia’s highlands stay bright and clear, perfect for visiting Lake Titicaca or the Uyuni Salt Flats before the rains return.

The Galápagos continues to thrive under the cool Humboldt Current, with exceptional marine activity — penguins, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies remain highly visible, while fur seal pups begin to appear on certain islands. In the Amazon, low water levels open up more forest trails and secluded oxbow lakes, making it easier to spot caimans, giant river otters, and colorful macaws.

Brazil’s Pantanal stays at peak wildlife concentration before the onset of the rains, while Colombia’s Caribbean coast enjoys calm seas and sunny days ideal for beach escapes. In Ecuador’s highlands, October’s dry, clear air is perfect for photographing volcanoes and exploring bustling markets in towns like Otavalo.