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Tango, tropics and towering glaciers
Get ready to salsa through cities, sip cocktails on golden beaches and spot penguins in the wild. From buzzing Brazil to the peaks of Chile, South America’s got it all. And yes, it’s as epic as it sounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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South America is like the ultimate pick 'n' mix of travel experiences: lush rainforests, ancient ruins, sizzling cities and jaw-dropping natural wonders – all wrapped up in one continent. Cruising here means you can sip caipirinhas in Brazil one day and marvel at glaciers in Chile the next. It’s the kind of trip that makes your passport feel like it’s won the lottery. Plus, with so many cultures, cuisines and climates to explore, every destination feels like a brand-new adventure.

Why is South America a great place to visit on a cruise holiday?

Where do we begin? South America is bursting with bucket-list brilliance. Here are a few showstoppers:
Recife, Brazil – Known as the “Venice of Brazil,” this coastal gem is full of canals, colourful buildings and golden beaches. Don’t miss the historic neighbourhood of Olinda; it’s like stepping into a postcard.
Salvador, Brazil – A city bursting with Afro-Brazilian culture, music, and mouthwatering street food. The Pelourinho district is all cobbled streets and pastel-hued buildings, with a rhythm that’ll have you dancing before lunch.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – The big one! Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach – it’s all here. Whether you're chasing views or samba beats, Rio is pure magic.
São Paulo (from Santos), Brazil&nbsp;– Gateway to Brazil’s biggest city. São Paulo is a buzzing metropolis with world-class museums, skyscrapers and a food scene that’ll make your taste buds sing.
Montevideo, Uruguay – A laid-back capital with a bohemian vibe. Stroll along the Rambla, explore the old town and try a traditional Uruguayan steak with chimichurri.
Port Stanley, Falkland Islands – Quaint and full of charm. Expect windswept beauty, penguins and a slice of Britishness.
Punta Arenas, Chile – The gateway to Patagonia. Think dramatic landscapes, windswept plains and the chance to spot sea lions and condors.
Puerto Montt, Chile – Surrounded by volcanoes and lakes, this is nature’s playground. A short trip to the German-influenced town of Frutillar is well worth it.
Santiago (from San Antonio), Chile – From wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley to exploring Santiago’s vibrant markets and museums on a shore experience, this destination is a cultural treat.
Coquimbo, Chile – A coastal town with pirate legends, scenic beaches and nearby La Serena, known for its historic architecture and observatories.
Arica, Chile – Sun-soaked and relaxed, Arica offers desert landscapes, surfing spots and fascinating archaeological sites.
Lima (from Callao), Peru – Lima is a foodie paradise. From ceviche to pisco sours, the flavours are unforgettable. Add in clifftop views and ancient ruins, and you’ve got a capital worth exploring.
Fuerte Amador, Panama – Right by the Panama Canal, this destination offers engineering marvels, tropical scenery and easy access to Panama City’s old quarter.
Cartagena, Colombia – A jewel of the Caribbean coast. Think colourful streets, historic charm, and sunsets that deserve their own Instagram account.

What are the top sights in South America?

Packing for South America is a bit like prepping for all seasons – you need a little bit of everything. Here’s your essentials checklist:

Layers, layers, layers – From tropical beaches to mountain towns, the weather in South America can swing wildly so make sure you pack some warmer clothing alongside your swimwear.

Comfortable shoes – For navigating cobbled streets, jungle trails and dancing the samba.

Sun protection – Think hats, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen. The weather in South America might be changeable but the sun doesn’t mess about.

Bug spray – A South America cruise must-have, especially if you're venturing into rainforests or humid areas.

A couple of eveningwear outfits – So you can glam up for your ship’s Celebration Nights.

Travel adapters – South America uses a mix of plug types, so a universal adapter is your best bet.

A camera or smartphone – With so much to see in South America, you’ll want to capture every moment on screen (and maybe make your friends back home jealous too).

What should I pack for a South America cruise?

South America doesn’t do things by halves, including time zones. The continent spans five of them, ranging from UTC-5 (think Peru and Colombia) to UTC-2 (hello, eastern Brazil islands). Venezuela even has its own quirky half-hour offset at UTC-4.30—because why not? So, depending on where you dock, you might be adjusting your watch a few times. But don’t worry, your ship’s crew will keep you on schedule.

What time zone is South America in?

For most South American countries, you won’t need a visa for short tourist visits, especially if you're arriving by cruise ship. Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru and many others roll out the welcome mat visa-free for Brits. That said, each country has its own rules, and some may ask for proof of onward travel or a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, depending on your itinerary. So, while you probably won’t need to wrestle with paperwork, it’s always wise to double-check the UK Government’s travel advice before you sail.

Will I need a visa for South America?

Frequently asked questions about South America

Cruise holidays

Find your favourite South America cruise holiday

Sunset over lush green jungle covered hills with the Beni River visible in Rurrenabaque, Bolivia; Shutterstock ID 215345635; project: olly; job: ; client: pocruises; other: 

From cooking classes in Brazil to mangrove canoeing in Colombia, South America shore experiences dive deeper into local life. Wander Lima’s UNESCO‑listed old town, relax on Gonzaga Beach’s golden sands or marvel at the thunderous beauty of Iguassu Falls.

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Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio, Brazil

Mountains, beaches and pure carnival energy.

Relaxed coastal charm with a creative, youthful edge.

Crystal waters and reef adventures right off the shore.

City of Marseille, France, seen from the old harbor and the good mother.

Gateway to Patagonia’s wild, windswept landscapes.

Your jumping‑off point for Lima’s culture and coastal colour.

An Intimate classic
A classic cruising experience with a focus on relaxation, world-class dining and a stylish atmosphere.
Cruise type
Long duration, Southampton round-trip

Shore experiences

South American shores: Beyond the horizon

Ships

Reasons to visit

Couple viewing Rio landscape during sunset

From the carnival spirit of Rio to the café culture of Montevideo, South America is packed with personality. Think colourful streets, sizzling food and sunsets that stop you in your tracks.

Tourists hiking in the deep jungle , Thailand; Shutterstock ID 370553771; Invoice Number: -

One day you’re sunbathing in Salvador, the next you’re spotting penguins in the Falklands or cruising past Chilean rainforests. It’s like Mother Nature turned the drama dial all the way up.

View of the central downtown campus building of the Pontificia Universidad CatÃ³lica (Campus Casa Central de la Pontificia Universidad CatÃ³lica de Chile) in Santiago, Chile.

A cruise to South America isn’t just a holiday, it’s a highlight reel of ancient towns and natural wonders. Plus, with overnight stays in some destinations, you’ll really get to soak it all in.

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Explore our South American cruise destinations

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There are refreshments available at the Southampton cruise terminal and plenty of seating to make you comfortable.

Are there refreshments available at the Southampton cruise terminal?

Depending on which cruise you choose, you usually have at least one day at sea before you get to the first port. That means you have at least a full day at sea to get used to your ship and have as much fun as you can squeeze in.

How long does it take to get from Southampton to the first destination? 

Southampton welcomes more than four million visitors each year and is easily accessible from major UK cities by rail, road and air. It’s entirely up to you. You might prefer to drive and park at or near the cruise terminal. Parking at the terminal needs to be pre-booked. Alternatively, why not hop on a coach or train and let someone else do the driving while you relax. And if you live further away, you could always fly into Southampton airport and grab a taxi to the terminal.

What are the transfer options to get to Southampton docks?

There are no size limits for liquid toiletries on P&amp;O Cruises holidays from Southampton. This means you can bring all of your favourite full size toiletries. We allow guests to bring 1 litre of wine or champagne, per person, on board.

What is the liquid allowance on a P&O Cruises holiday departing from Southampton? 

Great news! You’ll be pleased to know that Arcadia, Arvia, Aurora, Britannia, Iona and Ventura sail from Southampton to wonderful destinations all over the world. So take your pick of our Southampton cruises and set sail.

Which ships sail from Southampton docks?

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South American cruise holidays

Reasons to visit South America on a cruise holiday

Big cities, bigger stories

Beaches, wildlife and rainforests

One cruise, endless adventures

Explore our South American cruise destinations

Callao

Callao

Find your favourite South America cruise holiday

South American shores: Beyond the horizon

Our South American shore experiences

Explore South America on Aurora

Aurora