Are you eager to explore and ready to plan your next adventure? With Ecuador open to vaccinated travelers (or those with a negative covid test), and Chile emerging as a global leader in vaccination rates, there is reason for optimism! We share updates on the current situations and entry requirements throughout South America.
Please note that since this post was published, all of our South American destinations borders have opened. Please see our South American Current Covid Regulations and Info page for details.
SOUTH AMERICA TRAVEL RIGHT NOW (as of April 23, 2021)
When you plan a trip with Knowmad Adventures we provide you with documentation and up-to-date information specific to your custom trip prior to departure and help you through the exit / entry process (upon arrival to South America and on your way back to the United States). Below, we share updates on several South America destinations including the entry / exit process for each country. Remember with all countries, the United States requires a test within 3 days prior to flying home, which Knowmad can help arrange in country.
Ecuador & the galapagosTake advantage of this rare opportunity to get the Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands marvels all to yourself. Enjoy deserted beaches, experience unimaginable wildlife encounters, savor incredible food, and learn about unique cultures – with less traveler traffic. One of our groups, traveling now, is going to have the magical Galapagos Safari Camp all to themselves for 4 nights!
Ecuador is only a short flight away (just 4 hours from Miami) which minimizes your time in public spaces. Plus, you can now travel to Ecuador with proof of vaccination! Or, if you have not been vaccinated, you can provide proof of a negative Covid RT-PCR or rapid antigen test (taken no more than 3 days before entering the country). No mandatory quarantine.
To get to the Galapagos you will need to show negative results from a RT-PCR test (taken no more than 96 hours prior to arrival in the Galapagos). This can be the same test as the test used to get into Ecuador, if taken within the necessary time frame, or we will arrange for someone to come to your hotel in Ecuador and administer this test prior to flying to The Galapagos. You’ll get the results sent to & printed at your hotel so you’re all set to go with the proper test and in the needed time frame. For more information >>
ChileChile has become a world leader in Covid-19 vaccination administration with a third of their population fully vaccinated and 40% with one dose! The borders in Chile remain closed to foreign travelers, however with their success in vaccine administration there is good reason to believe that the borders will be open in the near future, well before the Chile season really picks up in October. Due to last season’s postponements and a built up energy for travel, availability is growing more limited so, don’t hesitate to start planning. For the most up-to-date information >>
ArgentinaAlthough foreign travel was restricted to Argentina, 12 million Argentines were able to travel throughout their country in January and February, which made for a successful summer season sustaining small local economies in places that rely on tourism! The borders in Argentina remain closed to foreign travelers with updates anticipated in early summer. For the most up-to-date information >>
PeruLike Ecuador & the Galapagos, Peru – and specifically Machu Picchu – is seeing a lot less traveler traffic making it a really special time to visit. To enter Peru you will need to present proof of a negative Covid PCR or antigen test (taken no longer than 72 hours before boarding your flight) and an antigen test will be taken after your arrival to continue on your journey (not needed for children under 12). For more information >>
ColombiaColombia is open for travel and requires negative results from a Covid-19 PCR test administered no more than 96 hours prior to departure for entry. For more information >>
AntarcticaTravelers are allowed to visit Antarctica, but most of the routes are through Chile and Argentina which remain closed currently, as stated above we have optimism that borders will open soon. Last year’s postponements and pent up demand is resulting in limited availability. For the most up-to-date information >>
BrazilIt’s possible to travel to Brazil, however Covid cases continue to rise. For entry you will need to present negative results from a RT-PCR test (performed within 72 hours prior to the moment of boarding your flight to Brazil). Children under the age of 12 who are traveling with a companion are exempt. There are also health screening procedures in place at airports once you arrive. Although it is possible to travel to Brazil, currently it is advisable to approach with caution. For more information >>
Knowmad Safety & Flexibility pledge
Knowmad Adventures is a pioneer in custom-built, private adventure and luxury travel in South America. High-quality, off-the-beaten path, private travel is what we know and have been recognized for as a world leader. Our planning and operations have always prioritized safety and security, and traveler satisfaction in all situations has always been our goal and compass. Now more than ever we offer flexibility and an emphasis on safety in all aspects of your trip. Read our Safety & Flexibility Pledge here.
Hasta Pronto, Knowmad Adventurers
Knowmad Adventures works closely with independent-minded travelers creating innovative trips to South America. Our specialists in Patagonia, Chile, Machu Picchu, Peru, Argentina, the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador and Antarctica are eager to collaborate and create a trip as unique and authentic as you are, and our experienced South American operations team guarantees you get an insider’s perspective, superior values, and a flawlessly-operated trip.
