The 10 Best Airlines to Fly to South America in 2025

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Thinking about an adventure in South America? From the vibrant cities of Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro to the stunning landscapes of Patagonia and the Andes, South America offers endless excitement and natural beauty. As a travel blogger who’s explored 66 countries (and Chile/Brazil as recently as a month ago), I’ve learned how to make the journey there affordable and seamless.

For this article, I analyzed over 200 flight routes from 45 US airports and 15 European airports to highlight the 10 best airlines for flying to South America in 2025. This guide covers major international hubs like São Paulo’s Guarulhos (GRU), Buenos Aires’ Ezeiza (EZE), and Bogotá’s El Dorado (BOG), along with top airlines that excel in comfort, schedule, and affordability. I’ve also included some insider tips to help you score budget-friendly fares, so you can make the most of your South American adventure. Here’s how to reach the continent’s best destinations smoothly and affordably!

Quick tip to find cheap flights to South America

For the past 4 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $236 roundtrip fare from Boston to Cartagena.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best South America flights in 2025.

1. 🇨🇱 LATAM Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Santiago (SCL), São Paulo (GRU), Lima (LIM)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (select routes), Premium Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: LATAM Pass, partners with Delta SkyMiles and oneworld airlines
• ☕ Perks: South American cuisine, extensive wine selection, fully-flat beds in Premium Business
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book through Delta SkyMiles for better award availability and lower fees than other partners

LATAM Airlines is not just the largest carrier in South America, but it’s also one of the most recognized names in regional aviation. LATAM offers a wide range of daily nonstop flights to major South American destinations from North American hubs like Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), and more. They fly modern aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus A350, and the 777.

If you’re flying Premium Economy on select routes, expect a real step up: wider seats, a deeper recline, and upgraded dining. Their Premium Business class now features the sleek LATAM Business suite on most long-haul routes with lie-flat seats, direct aisle access, and premium bedding. First time in Premium Business? Think priority boarding, enhanced dining featuring South American cuisine, and access to exclusive lounges worldwide.

LATAM Airlines is known for adding a distinct South American flair to the in-flight experience. Think complimentary regional wines, cuisine representing various South American countries, and attentive service. Baggage-wise, economy passengers can check one free bag on international flights.

The airline’s LATAM Pass loyalty program is especially rewarding when you know how to work it. You can use points to book reward flights, upgrades, and even partner flights on airlines like Delta, British Airways, and Qatar. Booking with LATAM Pass during promotional periods can unlock major savings, particularly for travel during off-season.

• Read next: Prettiest Places to Visit in Latin America
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• For more reading: Things to Do in the Amazon Rainforest

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2. 🇳🇱 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (Economy Comfort), World Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue, part of SkyTeam alliance
• ☕ Perks: Dutch-inspired cuisine, Delft Blue houses in Business Class, sustainable travel initiatives
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Flying Blue Promo Rewards for up to 50% off award tickets to South American destinations

If you are flying to South America from the United States and do not mind a European connection, KLM offers an unexpectedly smooth option. From cities like New York (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Houston (IAH), and Los Angeles (LAX), KLM connects you through Amsterdam to key South American cities including Buenos Aires, Lima, Quito, and São Paulo.

Heading to South America in World Business Class? You’re in for a treat with their signature blue cabin featuring spacious fully-flat beds, Dutch design touches, and some of the friendliest service in the sky. They operate mostly Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliners on these long routes, with the newer planes offering their latest cabin products. Did I mention Economy tickets include one free checked bag on all South American routes?

Everyone talks about those adorable little Delft Blue houses that Business Class passengers collect. They’re filled with Dutch genever (gin) and have become quite the collector’s items over KLM’s 100+ years of operation. KLM also takes real pride in their green initiatives, using biofuels on many routes and cutting plastic use before most airlines even considered it.

The Flying Blue program has some tricks that savvy travelers love. Keep an eye out for their monthly Promo Rewards that can slash award ticket prices by up to 50%. Plus, their partnership with GOL Airlines gives you access to dozens of smaller cities once you land in Brazil. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Amsterdam
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Europe
• For more reading: Beautiful Places to Visit in the Netherlands

3. 🇨🇴 Avianca

• 🏠 Hub: Bogotá (BOG), San Salvador (SAL), Lima (LIM)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Plus, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: LifeMiles, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Colombian coffee service, regional cuisine, direct routes to secondary cities
• 🧠 Pro Tip: LifeMiles often sells miles at huge discounts, making business class affordable

Avianca is not just Colombia’s flag carrier, but one of South America’s most established airlines with nearly a century of flying experience. From its main hub in Bogotá (BOG), Avianca offers extensive connections to major US cities like Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), and Los Angeles (LAX). They fly modern Airbus A320neo for regional routes and A330s for longer international flights.

If you’re flying Economy Plus, expect more legroom, priority boarding, and a dedicated cabin section. Their Business Class now features upgraded seats with full lie-flat capability on long-haul routes, improved dining with Colombian influences, and amenity kits containing local products.

Avianca brings Colombian warmth to the skies with signature touches. Their renowned coffee service features premium Colombian beans, and their menu incorporates regional specialties across all cabins. Wine and spirits are complimentary even in Economy on international routes. The best part? Most economy fares include one free checked bag.

The airline’s LifeMiles program is particularly valuable for savvy travelers. You can often purchase miles at steep discounts during promotions, making business class redemptions remarkably affordable. As part of Star Alliance, members can earn and redeem on partner airlines like United, Lufthansa, and Copa, opening connections throughout the Americas and beyond.

• Read next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Colombia
• You may also like: Bogotá Travel Guide
• For more reading: Things to Do in Santa Marta, Colombia
• Keep reading: Places to Visit in North America

4. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), Vancouver (YVR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Signature Class (Business)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Maple Leaf Lounges, Canadian wines, priority security clearance, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book “Latitude” economy fares for free same-day changes and upgrades using eUpgrade credits

Air Canada has transformed into a world-class carrier connecting North America to key South American destinations including São Paulo (GRU), Buenos Aires (EZE), Santiago (SCL), and Lima (LIM). With its strategic Canadian hubs, the airline offers convenient one-stop routing from dozens of US cities through Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver.

Flying aboard their modern Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Boeing 777s, passengers experience Air Canada’s revitalized product across all cabins. Their Signature Class features private pods with direct aisle access, restaurant-quality dining, and luxurious Amenity kits. Premium Economy provides a substantial upgrade with wider seats, enhanced meals, and priority airport services.

Air Canada stands out for its distinctly Canadian hospitality. Think locally sourced ingredients in their cuisine, a carefully curated selection of Canadian wines, and bilingual service that reflects the country’s cultural heritage. Plus, you won’t get bored with their entertainment system offering content in multiple languages.

The Aeroplan loyalty program offers tremendous value for South American travel. Points can be earned and redeemed across Star Alliance and accumulated through transfer partnerships with American Express, Capital One, and Chase. Their innovative stopover policy allows passengers to explore Canadian cities at no additional points cost when continuing to South America.

For travelers seeking reliability and comfort for their South American journey, Air Canada delivers a consistently polished experience with the added benefit of US Customs pre-clearance when returning through Canadian hubs.

5. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première (First)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue, part of SkyTeam alliance
• ☕ Perks: French cuisine, champagne in all classes, elegant amenity kits, art-focused lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for “Oh La La” promotion deals for discounted premium cabins to South America

Want to add a touch of Parisian style to your South American adventure? Air France connects Paris to Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Lima with daily flights that ooze French charm. You can hop on a flight from major North American cities and enjoy a quick taste of France on your way to exploring South America.

Their sleek Boeing 777s and 787 Dreamliners make the long journey comfortable, especially in their updated Business Class with full-flat beds and privacy dividers. Even their Premium Economy feels special, giving you 40% more space to stretch out compared to regular Economy.

The food alone might be worth booking Air France. They serve actual champagne in every cabin (yes, even Economy), and their meals showcase why French cuisine is world-famous. Business travelers get multi-course meals you’d expect in a nice restaurant, not at 35,000 feet. Those cute red amenity kits packed with Clarins products are a nice bonus too.

Flying Blue members should watch for their regular promotions that can slash South American award tickets by up to half the normal miles. Got credit card points? They transfer to Flying Blue from pretty much everywhere, making free trips easier to score. Air France also partners with local airlines like GOL in Brazil, so you can easily add on flights to smaller cities and beach towns. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Paris

6. 🇪🇸 Iberia

• 🏠 Hub: Madrid Barajas (MAD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Iberia Plus, part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Spanish cuisine, great award availability, late-night departures to South America
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Iberia Plus to book Avios awards with much lower fees than British Airways charges

Looking for a European gateway to South America with serious Spanish flair? Iberia connects Madrid with major South American cities including Buenos Aires, Santiago, São Paulo, Lima, Bogotá, and Quito. Their Spain-to-South America routes make perfect sense given the cultural and language connections.

Iberia flies sleek Airbus A330s and A350s on their South American routes, with comfortable cabins throughout. Their Business Class includes fully flat beds arranged for easy aisle access, while their newer Premium Economy gives you extra legroom, wider seats, and improved meal service without the business class price tag.

The real standout here is Iberia’s sweet spot in award travel. Their Iberia Plus program often needs fewer Avios points for South American trips than British Airways, and with way smaller fees. Got Chase or Amex points? Transfer them to Iberia when they’re running transfer bonuses and score amazing deals to the continent.

Spanish hospitality shines on board with genuine warmth from the crew and a food and beverage program that highlights Spanish cuisine. Think quality olive oils, Iberian ham, and Spanish wines that are actually worth drinking. They also offer pre-order meal options for specific dietary needs. Meanwhile, Iberia’s evening departures from Madrid to South America are timed perfectly for sleeping, getting you there refreshed rather than jet-lagged.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Spain
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7. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Doha Hamad International (DOH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Qsuite), First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club, part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Award-winning service, Qsuite privacy, generous baggage allowance, top-rated lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “Discover South America” fare for multi-city trips at significant savings

Think flying to South America means going west? Think again. Qatar Airways offers a fascinating eastern route to the continent with flights to São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and connections throughout South America via LATAM. Their Doha hub might seem out of the way, but the exceptional service makes the journey worth it.

Qatar’s modern fleet features their game-changing Qsuites in Business Class on many routes to South America. These private pods come with doors that actually close, giving you genuine privacy whether you’re working, dining, or sleeping. Even their Economy experience stands out with more legroom than most competitors and attentive service that’s won countless awards.

What makes Qatar special for South American travel is their incredible attention to detail. Their food is restaurant-quality (even in Economy), their amenity kits contain products you’ll actually want to keep, and their Doha lounge is more like a luxury hotel than an airport waiting area. For long-haul journeys, these touches make a real difference.

The Privilege Club program gives solid value for South American routes, especially when using Avios for upgrades. Qatar often runs promotions with up to 40% bonus Avios when transferring from credit card partners like Citi ThankYou or American Express. For travelers who want to turn their South American journey into something special, Qatar’s unusual routing offers the chance to add a stopover in Doha at minimal cost. 

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8. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Miami (MIA), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage, part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Most extensive US-South America route network, Flagship Lounges, partnerships with LATAM
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for Web Special awards that can slash miles needed for South America flights by 40%

American Airlines dominates the US-South America market with the most extensive network of any North American carrier. Miami serves as their powerhouse gateway to the continent, with direct flights to major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Santiago, Lima, Bogotá, and Quito, while Dallas offers additional options for western US travelers.

Their South American fleet consists primarily of Boeing 777s and 787 Dreamliners, with refreshed cabins across the board. Their Premium Economy provides a significant comfort boost with wider seats and better recline, while Business Class features lie-flat seating and improved dining. Even basic Economy includes personal entertainment screens and power outlets.

Their AAdvantage program offers great value for South America, especially with their Web Special awards that can dramatically reduce the miles needed. Citi and Barclay credit cards make earning miles easy, and their partnerships with LATAM and GOL extend your reach to smaller cities once you arrive.

For Miami-based travelers, American’s Flagship Lounge provides a premium pre-flight experience with made-to-order dining options and premium beverages. With Spanish-speaking crew on most South American routes and decades of experience serving the region, American delivers reliability and convenience for your Latin American journeys.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to New York
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9. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios), part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: British hospitality, afternoon tea service, multiple South American gateways
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book BA flights operated by LATAM to avoid high surcharges while still earning Avios

British Airways might not be the first airline that comes to mind when you are planning a trip to South America, but it deserves a closer look. Thanks to easy connections through London Heathrow, they make it pretty simple to reach major cities like Buenos Aires, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro without feeling like you are crammed onto a budget carrier for 12 hours.

If you are flying Business Class, their newer Club Suite is a real game-changer. Think lie-flat beds, direct aisle access, closing doors for privacy, and bedding that feels closer to a boutique hotel than an airplane seat. World Traveller Plus (basically, their version of Premium Economy) also punches above its weight with wider seats, extra recline, better meal service, and a cabin that just feels calmer and more grown-up.

Even in Economy, British Airways gets the basics right. You get full meal service, free drinks, and a huge library of entertainment options to help the hours pass a little faster. The crew strikes a nice balance between polished and friendly, and the little British touches, like afternoon tea on some routes, make the experience feel a bit more personal.

Their Executive Club loyalty program can be a real bargain hunter’s dream if you know how to work it. If you do not mind a quick connection in London, British Airways can turn your South America trip into a much smoother and surprisingly comfortable ride.

• Read next: Budget-Friendly Destinations from the UK

10. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), New York (JFK)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles, part of SkyTeam alliance
• ☕ Perks: Reliable operations, free messaging, partnerships with LATAM, Sky Priority
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for flash SkyMiles sales offering South America flights at 30% off standard award prices

Delta has seriously upped their South America game in recent years, offering direct flights to major destinations like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Lima from their massive Atlanta hub and New York JFK. For travelers across the US, their extensive domestic network makes connections smooth and convenient.

You’ll likely fly on one of Delta’s Boeing 767s or Airbus A330s to South America, featuring their latest cabin updates. Delta One offers private suites with closing doors on select aircraft, while Premium Select provides extra space and amenities for a reasonable upgrade. Even in Main Cabin, you’ll get thoughtful touches like free messaging and quality entertainment.

What makes Delta stand out? Definitely their operational reliability. They consistently rank at the top for on-time performance and have the lowest cancellation rates of major US carriers, which matters when you’re planning that dream Machu Picchu trek or Carnival experience. Their strategic partnership with LATAM opens up connections throughout South America, creating a seamless journey.

The SkyMiles program might not have an award chart, but it shines with frequent flash sales that can get you to South America for far fewer miles than competitors. Their American Express co-branded cards make earning miles easy, with welcome bonuses often enough for a round-trip.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Airlines to Fly to South America

If you’re still curious about what airlines fly to South America, here are some common questions that might help you decide.

What is the best airline to fly to South America?

Choosing the best airline to fly to South America largely depends on your preferences and starting point. Here are some top contenders:

• LATAM: Known for its extensive network across South America.
• Qatar Airways: Offers a luxury experience with its Qsuite.
• British Airways: A top choice for UK travelers.
• Delta: Renowned for its excellent service and frequent flights from the US.

Which airlines fly direct to South America from the US?

Several airlines offer direct flights to South America from the US. Some of the prominent ones include:

• American Airlines: Major routes from Miami, Dallas, and New York.
• Delta: Connects key US cities to major South American destinations.
• LATAM: Offers direct flights from Miami, New York, and Los Angeles.

Where is the best place to fly into South America?

The best place to fly into South America largely depends on your travel goals, budget, and the destinations you plan to visit. However, several major cities serve as primary international gateways to the continent, offering good connectivity, numerous flight options, and often competitive airfares. Here are some of the top entry points:

1. São Paulo, Brazil (São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport – GRU): As the largest city in South America, São Paulo is a major hub for flights from North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. The airport is well-connected to other parts of Brazil and the continent.
2. Bogotá, Colombia (El Dorado International Airport – BOG): Centrally located in the northern part of the continent, Bogotá serves as a significant hub, especially for travelers coming from North America and Europe.
3. Lima, Peru (Jorge Chávez International Airport – LIM): Lima is a primary gateway for those looking to explore the Andean region, including Machu Picchu. It offers good connectivity to North America, Europe, and other parts of South America.
4. Buenos Aires, Argentina (Ministro Pistarini International Airport – EZE): As the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires is a major entry point for travelers from Europe, North America, and Oceania.
5. Santiago, Chile (Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport – SCL): Santiago is strategically located for those coming from the Pacific, including flights from Oceania and Asia, as well as North America and Europe.
6. Caracas, Venezuela (Simón Bolívar International Airport – CCS): While Venezuela has faced political and economic challenges, Caracas remains an entry point, especially for regional travel.
7. Quito, Ecuador (Mariscal Sucre International Airport – UIO): Quito is a gateway for those heading to the Galápagos Islands and offers connections to major cities in the Americas.

Is it possible to find direct flights to South America from the UK?

Yes, several airlines offer direct flights to South America from the UK:

• British Airways: Direct routes to cities like São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Rio de Janeiro from London.
• LATAM: Direct flights from London to São Paulo.
• Iberia: Offers routes from London to various South American cities via Madrid.

Are there any methods I can use to find cheap South America flights?

Finding cheap South America flights can be an art in itself. Here are some comprehensive strategies to help you snag those deals:

• Flight Comparison Websites: Platforms like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Momondo aggregate flight prices from various airlines and booking sites. This allows you to compare and choose the most economical option.
• Flexible Travel Dates: Prices can vary significantly from one day to another. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, use the “whole month” search feature on flight comparison sites to see which days offer the cheapest fares.
• Incognito Mode: Some believe that flight prices increase if you repeatedly search for the same route. Browsing in incognito or private mode can prevent this potential price hike.
• Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes, flying into a smaller airport near your final destination can be cheaper. For instance, if you’re heading to Rio, check flights to São Paulo as well, and then take a domestic flight or other transport to Rio.
• Sign Up for Fare Alerts: Many flight comparison sites and airlines offer fare alerts. By setting up notifications, you’ll be informed when there’s a price drop for your desired route.
• Airline Loyalty Programs and Credit Card Points: Joining airline loyalty programs can earn you miles for each flight, which can be redeemed for ticket purchases. Similarly, some credit cards offer points for every purchase, which can be converted into flight tickets or upgrades.
• Last-Minute Deals: While it’s generally advised to book in advance, some airlines offer last-minute deals to fill up unsold seats. If you’re spontaneous, this could be a way to find cheap tickets.
• Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights): This service sends out email alerts for deeply discounted flights, including deals to South America. By subscribing, you can get notifications of limited-time offers and mistake fares.

Which airlines fly to South America?

Many airlines fly to South America, both from within the continent and from international destinations. Here’s a list of some major airlines that operate flights to South America:

Major South American Airlines:

1. LATAM Airlines Group: The largest airline in South America, resulting from the merger of LAN Airlines and TAM Airlines.
2. Avianca: Based in Colombia, it’s one of the oldest airlines in the world and serves many destinations within South America and beyond. 3. Gol Linhas Aéreas: A major Brazilian airline that offers extensive routes within Brazil and to neighboring countries.

4. Aerolíneas Argentinas: The national carrier of Argentina, serving both domestic and international routes.
5. Azul Brazilian Airlines: Another significant player in Brazil, offering both domestic and international flights.
6. TAME: The national airline of Ecuador, serving various destinations within the country and abroad.
7. Boliviana de Aviación (BoA): Bolivia’s flag carrier, offering flights within Bolivia and to select international destinations.

Major International Airlines Flying to South America:

1. American Airlines: Offers numerous flights to South American destinations from its hubs in the U.S.
2. Delta Air Lines: Connects several U.S. cities to major South American destinations.
3. United Airlines: Has a strong presence in South America, connecting from its U.S. hubs.
4. Air Canada: Connects Canadian cities to major South American hubs.
5. Iberia: The Spanish airline has several routes connecting Europe to South America.
6. British Airways: Connects London to several South American cities.
7. Lufthansa: The German airline offers flights from Europe to various South American destinations.
8. Air France: Connects Paris to several major cities in South America.
9. KLM: The Dutch airline has routes from Amsterdam to South American destinations.
10. Qantas: The Australian airline offers flights to Santiago, Chile, from Sydney.

What month is the cheapest to fly to South America?

Typically, the off-peak season, which is the South American winter (June to August), might offer cheaper flight options. However, it’s always good to monitor flight prices and book when you find a deal, as promotions can pop up throughout the year.

Why are flights so expensive to South America?

Flights to South America can be expensive for several reasons. Here are some reasons why flights to South America might be on the pricier side:

1. Distance and Fuel Costs: For travelers coming from places like Europe, Asia, or Oceania, the sheer distance to South America can result in higher fuel costs, which are often passed on to the consumer.
2. Limited Competition: In some routes, especially less popular ones, there might be limited competition among airlines. Fewer airlines operating on a route can lead to higher prices.
3. Airport and Landing Fees: Airports in some South American countries charge higher landing and operational fees, which can increase the overall ticket price.
4. Taxes: Some countries in South America impose higher taxes on international flights, which can contribute to the overall cost.
5. Seasonality: Just like any other destination, flights to South America can become more expensive during peak tourist seasons or major events.
6. Economic Factors: Currency fluctuations, inflation rates, and other economic factors in both the departure and destination countries can influence flight prices.
7. Limited Direct Flights: Depending on your departure city, there might be limited direct flights to your desired destination in South America, requiring you to take connecting flights, which can sometimes be more expensive.
8. Demand: If there’s high demand for flights and limited seat availability, prices are likely to rise. This is basic supply and demand economics.
9. Operational Costs: Airlines have to consider various operational costs, including crew wages, maintenance, and services, which can be higher for long-haul flights.

Best Airlines to Fly to South America: Recap

Traveling to South America offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, from the rhythmic beats of samba to the breathtaking vistas of the Andes. Choosing the right airline can elevate this journey, turning it from a mere trip into a cherished memory. Each airline brings its unique flavor, amenities, and routes, catering to diverse traveler needs.

For those with a penchant for luxury, options like Qatar Airways or Air France’s La Premiere provide an unparalleled experience. For travelers seeking budget-friendly getaway to South America, on the other hand, can still find comfort and convenience with airlines like Delta and American Airlines. The key is to research, compare, and stay updated on the best flights to South America.

Subscribing to fare alert services, such as Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), can be a game-changer. This notifies you of limited-time offers and mistake fares. Loyalty programs and credit card points further open doors to savings and upgrades. Moreover, being flexible with travel dates and considering nearby airports can lead to surprising discounts.

In the end, the journey to South America is a blend of anticipation, adventure, and discovery. With the right airline and a few smart strategies, you’re set to embark on an unforgettable voyage, all while ensuring your wallet remains happy.