Cheap Flights to South America from $131

Flights to South America at a glance

Traveling to South America is easy, with various options for flights to South America that fit your budget and schedule. Whether you prefer cheap flights to South America or full-service airlines, you can compare travel times to find the best fit for your plans to see renowned attractions. Key places of interest include Colca Canyon, perfect for outdoor adventures, Paulista Avenue, great for city experiences, and Baía da Ilha Grande, ideal for beach lovers and scenic views.

• Major airports in South America: José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) serving Medellín; Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) serving Lima; El Dorado International Airport (BOG) serving Bogotá
• Flights per week: 4,550+ flights arriving across South America airports
• Number of airlines that fly to South America: around 40+ carriers

Popular airports in South America

South America is a vibrant continent that attracts travelers seeking outdoor adventures, rich culture, romance, and breathtaking scenery. Typically, three major airports serve as key gateways for exploring this diverse region.

• José María Córdova International Airport (MDE): Situated in Antioquia, this airport caters to both domestic and international travelers. It connects to over 15 domestic cities and more than 125 international destinations. Passengers have the option to enhance their journey by upgrading to premium economy or business class seating, depending on the airlines and routes. Notable carriers at this airport include Avianca, Copa, and American Airlines.
• Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM): Found in the Callao Region, Jorge Chávez serves as a crucial hub for both domestic and international flights. With connections to around 15 domestic cities and over 155 international locations, travelers can select premium economy or business class seating for a more enjoyable experience, based on the airline and specific routes. Popular airlines operating here include LATAM Airlines Group, Delta, and Sky Airlines.
• El Dorado International Airport (BOG): Located in the Distrito Capital, this airport facilitates both domestic and international flights. It connects to approximately 20 domestic cities and 150 international destinations. Travelers can opt to upgrade their service to premium economy or business class seating for added comfort, depending on the airline and route chosen. Major airlines at El Dorado include Avianca, LATAM Airlines Group, and American Airlines.

Top routes to South America

• Miami (MIA) to Medellin (MDE), with one-way flights starting at around $130
• New York (JFK/LGA) to Medellin (MDE), with one-way flight options from around $160
• San Juan (SJU) to Medellin (MDE), with one-way flight options from around $95
• Miami (MIA) to Bogota (BOG), with one-way flights starting at around $120
• Miami (MIA) to Lima (LIM), with one-way tickets available from around $160

Cheapest routes to South America

• San Juan (SJU) to Medellin (MDE), with cheap one-way fares from around $95
• Santo Domingo (SDQ) to Bogota (BOG), with low one-way fares from around $100
• Punta Cana (PUJ) to Bogota (BOG), with low one-way fares from around $100
• Zumpango (NLU) to Bogota (BOG), with low one-way fares from around $100
• San Jose (SJO) to Medellin (MDE), with low one-way fares from around $100

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Best time to fly to South America

The most popular months for travelers to fly to South America are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in South America can reach up to 70.5°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 53.8°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $242), roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? May and October offer average one-way fares of around $266, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to South America

Getting some of the best deals on flights to South America is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our South America hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in South America

• Brazil: Brazil is located in the area of South America and is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're dancing the night away or soaking up the sun at iconic spots, this vibrant country offers a diverse range of experiences. Explore the lively Paulista Avenue for city vibes, or unwind at the stunning Copacabana Beach, where the golden sands meet the azure ocean. For those seeking adventure, the picturesque Baía da Ilha Grande beckons with its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.
• Colombia: Colombia is located in the area of South America, and it is an exciting destination for families and city explorers alike. The country boasts a rich blend of urban parks, shopping centers, and recreational areas. Spend a day at El Gaitero Ecopark, a serene reserve where nature flourishes, or enjoy thrilling rides and attractions at Hacienda Nápoles Theme Park, ideal for family fun. For a relaxing outing, visit 93 Park, an urban oasis perfect for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.
• Argentina: Argentina is located in the area of South America and offers a unique blend of family-friendly, cultural, and business experiences. The vibrant cities are filled with shopping areas, theaters, and charming neighborhoods. Discover the iconic Obelisco, a monument steeped in history that reflects the culture of Buenos Aires. Stroll through Palermo Soho, a trendy neighborhood known for its boutiques and cafés, or explore the Civic Center Bariloche, a historic civic building that showcases the region's rich heritage. Argentina’s diverse offerings ensure every traveler finds something to enjoy.

Tips for short-haul flights to South America

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often the more economical choice. Save space by packing travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This strategy also allows you to bypass waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—most airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This can save you time at the airport, and you may even secure a preferred seat at no extra cost.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do not provide in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive early—Even for shorter flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before your departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to South America

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow earlier seat selection, but this could incur an additional fee.
• Arrive early—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have spare time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, visit a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin synchronizing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake on the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortably—since the journey will be long, opt for loose, comfortable clothing and layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and ensure you drink plenty of water to maintain hydration, so you feel your best upon arrival.

About Flying to South America