South America is home to a diverse range of environments. From the Amazon Rainforest, to the Peaks of the Andes, to the frigid tundras in the south. From busy cities like Buenos Aires or Bogota to community-driven remote villages. South America is very well connected by air, with flights being the best way in, out and across the continent.
Whatever you're visiting South America to see, you can get there stress-free with Alternative Airlines.
So whether you're travelling for family, work or a special event, Alternative Airlines can help you book flights to South America with less friction and more control over how you pay.
Looking to book a flight to South America? At Alternative Airlines, you can book with over 600 global airlines, but here are some of our favourites for travelling to South America.
Best Overall (Network & Size) As the largest airline group in Latin America, LATAM is the dominant choice for most travelers. It offers the most extensive connectivity within the continent, with major hubs in Santiago, São Paulo, and Lima.
Best for On-Time Performance. Based in Bogota, Colombia, Avianca has undergone a significant operational reset. In recent years, it has frequently been ranked as one of the most punctual airlines globally by Cirium and other data trackers.
Best for Convenience (The "Hub of the Americas") While technically based in Panama, Copa is the primary gateway for many travellers flying into South America. Their "Hub of the Americas" allows for quick, efficient transfers without the need to clear customs in Panama.
You can book your flights to South America today at Alternative Airlines. Choose from over 600 airlines and 40+ ways to pay. We offer a wide variety of options when you search, including extras like baggage coverage and priority boarding.
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Travelling to South America in 2026 is generally safe and rewarding, provided you stick to established tourist corridors and exercise "street smarts." Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile remain the safest and most stable choices for travellers, while popular spots like Peru and Colombia are secure in their major tourist hubs but require higher caution in dense urban centres. While petty theft (like phone snatching) is a common risk in large cities, violent crime against tourists is rare if you avoid flashing valuables and use reputable transport apps like Uber or Cabify.
Flight costs to South America in 2026 vary significantly based on your departure point, but they generally fall into the "mid-to-high" range for international travel due to the long distances. From the US, you can often find deals to northern hubs like Bogotá or Medellín for $400–$600, while deeper southern destinations like Buenos Aires or Santiago typically range from $800–$1,200.
From Europe, average return fares usually sit between £600 and £900. To keep costs down, aim for the "shoulder seasons" in April, May, or October, and try to book roughly 4–5 months in advance; flying into a major hub like São Paulo and using local low-cost carriers for internal connections is often the most budget-friendly strategy.
