Upgrade your 2026 travel plans with this all-new offering of South America adventures.
With Intrepid’s new South America trips and experiences for the year ahead, you could find yourself picnicking on the celestial salt flats of Bolivia, huddled round a bonfire in the depths of the Peruvian Amazon or cycling a coastal trail in Colombia – each trip a chance to embrace the region’s culture in all its glory.
1. Take a different route to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is a sight for sore eyes, but the citadel you see on postcards is only half the story. On the new Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu trip, you’ll explore the Sacred Valley on a lesser-known path. The high passes on this route are more challenging than those of the Inca trail, but the solitude and surrounding views are worth it. Traverse jungle, cloud forest and ancient ruins, savouring the stillness of these vast landscapes. When you arrive at Machu Picchu, ascend Machu Picchu Mountain, the tallest of the surrounding peaks, for a fresh perspective on an iconic sight.
Read more: 13 new active trips and experiences
2. Broaden your horizons in Bolivia
Bolivia’s natural landscapes are seductive and surreal, and on the new nine-day Bolivia Encounter trip, you’ll see them from all angles. Kick off in lofty La Paz, hopping in a cable car for a bird’s-eye view of the city, before heading to the Uyuni Salt Flats for a 4WD tour and a one-of-a-kind picnic. Next, swap salt-crusted horizons for the driest place on the planet. The Atacama Desert, with its charismatic geysers and tempting hot springs, promises lunar views and serene moments.
3. Unravel Argentina’s cultural heritage
Harnessing the might of Iguazu Falls and the thrum of eclectic cities, the Premium Argentina and Brazil trip is full of energy. In 2026, that same journey is getting even better, with a brand-new musical addition. You’ll head to Teatro Colon, Buenos Aires’ historic opera house, to explore with a local guide. Meander through grand halls, learn all about the city’s classical music heritage and let timeless anecdotes transport you to another era.
Read more: 10 new Premium trips and experiences
4. Savour an authentic taste of Colombia
From April 2026, the Coastal Colombia trip will feature two new experiences. First, you’ll weave your way through the mangrove forests of La Boquilla by canoe, floating through intricate tree tunnels and learning about local wildlife from a local guide. Later, it’s time to hit the streets of Cartagena for a street-food tour, letting your nose (and your local guide) lead you to the best market stalls, where you’ll meet friendly vendors and sample well-loved national dishes including carimanolas (torpedo-shaped meat pies) and enyucado (cassava cheesecake).
5. Go beyond the Inca Trail
Follow in the footsteps of bygone Inca messengers on the new Premium Walking & Hiking in Peru trip. Take in snow-capped peaks, ancient ruins, winding mountain trails, hidden lagoons and towering waterfalls, all led by your expert local leader. You’ll also enjoy higher-end experiences, from farm-to-table meals at renowned Cusco restaurants and women-led community rituals to a scenic stay in Aguas Calientes.
6. Venture into Colombia’s vibrant villages
Intrepid’s new One Week in Colombia trip is exclusively for 18-to-35 year olds and includes waterfall hikes, wild swimming and Old Town walks. On this adventure, you’ll also visit World Bicycle Relief, a partner of The Intrepid Foundation. Get geared up and bike down the waterfront promenade in Barranquilla, learning more about WBR’s work as you go. Later, board a traditional fishing boat to see the floating villages of Palafitos. Learn the moving history of these populations, their social struggles and how a floating football field now offers hope.
Read more: 10 new ways to travel with purpose
7. Hear jungle legends in Peru
Intrepid’s Premium Peru trip not only includes two visits to Machu Picchu, two powerhouse cities (Cusco and Lima), and opportunities to connect with local communities and culture – it also features a high-end stay in the Amazon. New for 2026, you’ll now spend one of your evenings at the jungle lodge in the company of a local guide, as you commune around the bonfire together for some fireside storytelling.
8. Get creative in the Galapagos
On Intrepid’s Galapagos Family Holiday, quality time with the kids and memorable moments come guaranteed. Now the trip gets even more creative with a new artistic experience. Gather your loved ones and roll up your sleeves, as a local conservationist teaches you how to transform ocean waste into meaningful art. Exchange stories as you get stuck in and gain insights into the sustainability culture of these enchanting islands.
Find out what else is new for 2026 with The Goods – a collection of new trips and experiences to inspire a year of adventure.
