South America

Gap years in South America

South America has it all for the gap year traveller. From the mighty Andes to the Amazon rainforest, stunning beaches to active volcanoes, incredible wildlife and fascinating cultures.

It’s no surprise that thousands of gap year travellers head to South America each year to soak up the atmosphere, explore, help on a huge range of programmes or to learn a new skill

South America is a huge region and you could easily spend years exploring each country.

To really get the most out of your time in the region,  ensure your Gap Year doesn’t just disappear in 12 months of sitting on buses and trying to find your way around.

We’d strongly recommend that you consider a structured and organised program with experts in the region.

These programs cover a huge range of activities – whether it’s trekking up to Machu Picchu or helping to preserve the Galapagos Islands, perfecting your Spanish or Portuguese (and salsa or samba skills!) to exploring the Amazon.

You’ll get the absolute most out of your travels in what should will be the time of your life and great opportunity to test and learn about yourself.

There are 16 countries in South America, each spectacular in its own right.

Which ones will you choose to visit?

Featured programmes in South America

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Approved providers operating in South America

Pacific Discovery Logo
volunteering solutions logo
Oyster logo
The Leap
Pod Volunteer
Gap Force
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