Popular Cruise Ports in South America

The Caribbean isn’t the only place in the Western World ideal for a cruise vacation. From the iconic cities of Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires to the stunning landscapes of Patagonia and the Amazon, South America is a vast and diverse continent that offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions best explored by sea. Whether you are stopping by for a quick port halt or extending your stay in various cities around the continent, some fabulous cruise ports in South America await your arrival.

In this article, we’ll delve into the top destinations and most popular ports that offer a glimpse into the region’s unique charm and beauty. Let’s prepare to sail to 6 of South America’s best and most popular cruise ports.

Sitting along the Northern Carribean coastline of Colombia is one of South America’s most popular cruise ports; Port of Cartegena. It’s been named a UNESCO heritage site thanks to its contribution to trade and being a popular site for tourists, and it is the only Western Caribean Port in South America. Those looking to explore the beach can find various locations along the coastline, while those looking to enjoy the culture and scenery can take a stroll down into Old Town. The port itself is beautiful while sailing into and out of and boasts different restaurants, cafes, and shops for quick stopovers.

The largest country in South America, Brazil, has multiple ports of call for cruisers, one of the most attractive being the Port of Santos. Santos was one of the first new world settlements for Portuguese immigrants, boasting fabulous beaches and a beautiful coastline. This is one of the busiest cruise ports in Latin America and can host several ships simultaneously. It is a convenient and effective starting port for exploring the area and other popular locations in the area, such as Ilha Grande and Paraty.

The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, known for their endemic species and natural wonders. The Galapagos Island Cruise Port is one of the most popular ports of call in South America, offering visitors a chance to explore these fascinating islands, get up close to the wildlife, and experience the stunning natural landscapes firsthand. The Galapagos Islands are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering an experience that is truly unparalleled. The cruise port of the Galapagos Islands is a relatively small and environmentally protected area, which limits the number of cruise ships that can visit at any given time. Currently, park authorities have established a limit of 100 tourist boats that can operate in the Galapagos Islands, with a maximum of 20 ships allowed to operate on any given day.

Buenos Aires is one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in South America, known for its European architecture, tango culture, and delicious cuisine. The Buenos Aires Cruise Port is one of the most popular in Latin America. It offers a perfect combination of urban and natural attractions, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the many wonders of Argentina. It’s one of the largest and most important ports in South America, capable of accommodating multiple cruise ships at the same time. It is strategically located near the city center, allowing easy access to Buenos Aires’ many attractions and activities.

The Ushuaia Port in Argentina is located in the southernmost city in the world and offers a unique and remote destination for travelers. It’s the gateway to the Arctic, the most popular departure city for cruises and excursions heading down to Antarctica. It also offers easy access to the stunning Tierra del Fuego National Park, which provides a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can also explore the nearby Beagle Channel. The Ushuaia cruise port in Argentina is a small port and can only accommodate one or two small to medium-sized cruise ships at a time. Due to its remote location, Ushuaia receives fewer cruise ship visitors than other ports in Argentina or South America. Still, it is a popular destination for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.

While technically not in South America, it would be hard to exclude Antarctica from this list. Cruises are the most prominent and ideal way to access this undiscovered land. Antarctica’s most popular cruise port is the South Shetland Islands, located north of the Antarctic Peninsula. The South Shetland Islands are a popular destination for travelers seeking to experience the pristine beauty and unique wildlife of Antarctica, and the port is well-equipped to accommodate the many cruise ships that visit the region during the Antarctic season. Keep in mind this port is highly regulated due to its geographical location, and only a specific amount of visitors are allowed to the port at once and must follow strict guidelines while in the area.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, a cruise through South America is an experience that is sure to create lasting memories. Cruising through this region is an unforgettable experience that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Be sure to contact Adventures by Matt when planning your next epic adventure to South America.