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South & central america.

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Explore all the places we go in South & Central America

Destination must-sees.

Buenos Aires:

The capital city of Argentina, birthplace of the tango, home to a mosaic of European-styled architecture and South American spirit, it’s nearly impossible not to fall head over heels in love with this very special place. It’s often called the “Paris of Latin America” and lives up to its name with incredible food, fantastic shopping, stunning architecture and culture galore.

Iguazu Falls:

Located at the crossroads of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, Iguazu Falls is thought of as the most beautiful waterfall in the world. The Brazilian side of the falls has a walkway along the canyon that allows visitors to go all the way out on an extension to the lower base of Devil’s Throat.

Machu Picchu:

A visit to one of the world’s most legendary sites is an absolute “must do” for anyone who travels to South America. High in the Andes Mountains in Peru with stunning panoramic views, this spectacular 15th century collection of structures and terraces will leave you awestruck.

Chilean Fjords:

An unforgettable full day cruise will bring you to visit the stunning Serrano and Balmaceda glaciers. As the cruise passes through the Seno Ultima Esperanza, or “Channel of Last Hope,” you’ll see the untouched beauty of Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, Chile’s biggest natural reserve.

Destination Must-Dos

Tango Performance, Buenos Aires:

Dance! The Tango is arguably one of the greatest contributions Buenos Aires has made to world culture. The famous dance has somewhat seedy beginnings, as you may expect, but today it’s ultra glamorous and very entertaining. Visitors can enjoy glitzy tango shows, but anyone inspired to perfect their moves can find a willing teacher in salons, cafes and at dance events.

Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro:

This is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the world. To the left you can see Sugarloaf and Fort Duque de Caxias, and to the right is Copacabana Fort. Walk the 2.2-mile-long beach and try some of the refreshing coconut water while you view the incredible sand sculptures.

Lima, Peru:

Take a walking tour through the historic city center of Lima, Peru to discover the city’s fascinating history. The city center is one of the most important tourist destinations in all of Peru due to the number of historically significant landmarks.

Santiago, Chile:

Indulge in a visit to a local winery in Santiago and enjoy some lunch complete with a sampling of some of Chile’s renown cabernet and carmenere wines. An expert winemaker will tell you about how wine is made in Chile. Cheers!

Expert Advice

As you prepare to explore beautiful South and Central America, enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes! Closed toed shoes are recommended, as many grounds are uneven or are dirt paths. Bring a swimsuit as several of the hotels have swimming pools.

You're in for a treat as you sample the delicious flavors of South American cuisine. The climate provides the area with a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and meats to be sampled and savored.

Peru provides one of the greatest shopping experiences in all of South America with its diversity of products. You will find many handicraft markets as well as top end ceramic shops, art galleries, jewelry stores and clothing boutiques, particularly in Lima and Cuzco. The Andean heritage is still very alive in Peru. Look for colorful Andean textiles in the form of blankets, ponchos, shawls, and scarves.

Featured Tours to South & Central America

Peru: Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca

Patagonia: Edge of the World featuring Argentina, Chile, and a 4-Night Patagonia Cruise

Machu Picchu & Galapagos Wonders featuring a 4-Night Cruise

Essential South America

See our travelers on tour, brochures that feature our south america tours, destinations in south america.

Peru is one of South America’s premier destinations and not just because of its status of the land of the ancient Incas, the ruins of Machu Picchu and the Peruvian Andes; it’s also full of many cultural, historical and archeologically significant sites. But it is also known for its world-renowned food scene. Higher end restaurants are popping up everywhere with cuisine influenced by Latin America, Europe and even the Amazon and everyone is taking notice.

If you are up for a larger than life experience consider the country of Ecuador. Despite its small size, Ecuador offers much more than one might ever imagine. The diverse landscape includes the Galapagos Islands; nearly 1400 miles of Pacific coastline, grasslands, volcanic mountains and the Amazon Rainforest and jungle. Considered a multicultural wonder, it is home to 44 different indigenous and ethnic groups whose culture and history contribute to the wide variety of delicious cuisine, all adding up to one big adventure for you!

This long and narrow country offers a variety of different ecosystems to explore. From the world’s most arid desert in the north, lush forests and coastal shores, to the frozen land in the south that is home to penguins, the activities are endless. Whether it’s sighting volcanoes, horseback riding or simply sipping on the world renowned wine, an adventure awaits. Speaking of wine, Chile has many vineyards and over 20 different types of grapes – a wine tasting is a must.

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South America Tours & Vacations

Colorful, candid and everything in-between. South America beats to the rhythm of an infectious, eternal drum.

It is the sequined heat of Carnival and a cool breeze blowing across the Andes, a fiery Argentine tango and the soft silence of an Ecuadorian cloud forest. You taste it in the crackle of slow-cooked barbecue and the tang of a good pisco sour. About the only thing the continent lacks is monotony. From the rocky slopes of Galapagos to the dawn-lit ruins of Machu Picchu , South America is effervescent with sights, sounds and salsa. Now, pass the empanadas and let's talk adventure. 

Our South America trips

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Our destinations in South America

Chile to Argentina: Santiago, Patagonia & Buenos Aires

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Discover Patagonia on a journey between two vibrant capitals.

Starting in the Chilean cultural hub of Santiago, set out for Buenos Aires by way of South America’s breathtaking Patagonia region. Take it all in as you venture through Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Park, marveling at glittering mountain lakes, craggy peaks, and icy glaciers along the way. Then, cap off your trek in Argentina’s lively capital.

Your tour package includes

• 9 nights in handpicked hotels
• 9 breakfasts
• 4 dinners with beer or wine
• 1 wine tasting

Included highlights

• Casablanca Valley wine tasting
• Punta Arenas
• Patagonian estancia visit
• Torres del Paine National Park

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Santiago.

Welcome to Chile! Set out to explore Santiago on a guided sightseeing tour. 

• Drive through the city’s Barrio Bellavista, known for its bohemian charm 

• Pass the Barrio Lastarria and the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts 

• Walk up Santa Lucía Hill to soak in incredible views from the spot where Santiago was founded in 1541 

• Head to Plaza de Armas where you’ll see Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral, the Chilean National History Museum, and the Central Post Office Building 

Gather with your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner this evening.

Embark on a guided tour of Valparaíso, passing through the UNESCO-recognized port and historic quarter. 

• Stroll through Plaza Sotomayor and the Port and Central neighborhoods 

• Take a ride on the Queen Victoria funicular up to Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, two hilltop neighborhoods famous for their colourful houses 

• Walk along the whimsical streets on a tour before enjoying free time for lunch 

Next, make your way outside of the city to the nearby Casablanca Valley. 

• Stop at a local vineyard for a tour and tasting 

• Sample the winery’s signature sauvignon blanc, pinot noir, and chardonnay

Fly to Punta Arenas in southern Patagonia this morning. Then, set off on a guided tour alongside your Tour Director. 

• Visit Mirador Cerre de la Cruz to soak in beautiful views of the city 

• Enter the Salesian Museum to learn about Patagonian history and nature 

• View the European-style architecture of the Palacio Sara Braun 

• Stroll through Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square

Spend a free morning in Punta Arenas or add an excursion.

Then, visit a Patagonian estancia, or ranch, as you make your way to the Torres del Paine region. 

• Learn about work and life on the ranch while watching a sheep-shearing demonstration 

• Enjoy a barbecue lunch of regional specialties

Isla Magdalena Penguin Colony

From $189 per person

Make your way to Torres del Paine National Park, one of the largest of its kind in Chile. En route, stop to enter Milodon Cave to view its wealth of prehistoric fossils. Then, set out to explore the park’s many natural wonders. 

• View the towering peaks of Los Cuernos del Paine, for which the park was named 

• Stand on the banks of Lago Pehoé, Lago Nordenskjöld, and Lago Grey, three of the park’s glittering glacial lakes 

• Take a short hike to see the churning Salto Grande waterfall 

• Try to spot guanacos, foxes, rheas, and birds as you go 

• Enjoy an included boxed lunch 

Sit down for an included dinner in Puerto Natales this evening.

Cross the border into Argentina as you make your way to the town of El Calafate. 

Later, enjoy a free evening. Please note: You’ll depart for Argentina early in the morning.

Make your way to Los Glaciares National Park today for an up-close look at the growing Perito Moreno Glacier. 

• Stop at Lago Argentino to take in the surrounding mountain views, keeping an eye out for the flamingos and condors that call the lake their home (seasonal) 

• Arrive in Los Glaciares National Park and embark on a cruise along the Perito Moreno Glacier face 

• Take in views of the glacier from a scenic overlook and enjoy free time to explore the surrounding walking paths

Board your flight to Buenos Aires this morning. 

Tonight, watch as accomplished tangueros, or tango dancers, perform their national dance. Listen to the live music as you enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and Argentine wine.

Embark on a guided tour of the city where tango was born. 

• Drive through the aristocratic Retiro and Recoleta neighbourhoods to visit the grave of Eva Perón, the former First Lady of Argentina 

• Make your way past the National Museum of Fine Arts and the beautiful parks and gardens of Palermo 

• Drive along 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest street in the world 

• Explore Plaza de Mayo, site of the May Revolution in 1810, and enter the neoclassical Metropolitan Cathedral 

• Enjoy free time in the La Boca neighbourhood, where the influence of its Italian settlers can still be felt today 

Later, celebrate your trip with your group at a farewell dinner.

Relax in a dayroom in Buenos Aires before boarding your flight home tonight or early tomorrow morning. If you’re continuing on the tour extension, you’ll fly to the Argentinian side of Iguazú Falls this afternoon.

Arrive home today.

Fly to the Argentinian side of Iguazú Falls this afternoon.

Spend the day soaking in the natural wonders of Iguazú National Park. 

• Board an ecological rainforest train and ride to Devil’s Throat, the most famous section of the falls 

• Walk along the forested footpaths on the Argentinian side of the falls for panoramic views of the waters 

Please note: Pack raingear for this morning’s activities and be prepared to walk on slippery, wet terrain.  

Tonight, whip up some of Argentina’s signature dishes while learning about the country’s food traditions during this interactive and unique dining experience. 

• Start off by learning to make empanadas, a stuffed bread dish, and alfajores, which are regional cookies 

• Try your hand at preparing mate, a traditional, caffeinated South American drink made from yerba mate leaves 

• Sip on unlimited wine during a steak dinner as you learn about the different cuts of Argentinian meat 

• Receive the recipes for each of the dishes you made so you can recreate your Argentine meal for friends and family at home

Explore Iguazú Falls from a new perspective this morning. 

• Take a Jeep ride through the sub-tropical rainforest 

• Hop aboard an inflatable power boat to ride through the Macuco Falls Canyon 

• Soak in the panoramic views of the falls from the Iguazú Basin 

Please note: Pregnant women and people with heart or back conditions are restricted from taking part in this morning’s activities.  

Enjoy a free afternoon in the Iguazú Falls region or add an excursion. 

Sit down for an included dinner this evening.

Jasy Pora Guaraní Community Visit

From $129 per person

Fly back to Buenos Aires and relax in a dayroom before boarding your overnight or early morning flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Hotels, flights & FAQ

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• This tour visits Chile and Argentina. In order to enter these countries, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps.
• Upon arrival in Chile, you will receive a Chilean tourist card that you must keep in your passport for the duration of your visit.
• There is no visa required for U.S. or Canadian citizens to enter any of the countries visited on this tour. However, in accordance with Argentine law, Canadian citizens must pay a reciprocity fee equivalent to $92USD per person prior to departure. To prepay your reciprocity fee, please visit the Argentine National Immigration Directorate online. At this time, Argentina has suspended the reciprocity fee for U.S. Citizens. Please check with VisaCentral or the State Department website for the latest rule changes.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You will walk for about 3 hours daily across moderately uneven terrain, including rocky ground and unpaved trails.
• Travellers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times. You should also feel comfortable getting in and out of Jeeps and small boats on the tour extension.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travellers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveller.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Santiago and depart from Buenos Aires. A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travellers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travellers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travellers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• Flights from Santiago to Punta Arenas and El Calafate to Buenos Aires are included in the price of your tour. (The tour extension also includes round-trip flights from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls, as well as a train ride, Jeep ride, and boat ride in Iguazú National Park.)
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travellers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included ontour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket.
• In the fall and winter, weather in Patagonia is prone to extreme variance. Snow and strong winds are not uncommon.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• A sun hat, sunglasses, and raingear will help you stay comfortable in all types of weather. You may also wish to pack a swimsuit.
• Long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and insect repellent are recommended for certain activities.
• Binoculars are handy for a closer look at local wildlife and scenery.
• A small bottle of hand sanitizer may be helpful when other facilities are not readily available while on the road.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• There are no major health risks associated with travelling to any of the countries on this tour.
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
• Take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour.
• Drink bottled water only. Refrain from ingesting tap water, including when brushing your teeth.
• Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables unless they’re cooked or washed in clean water and peeled.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour and any possible delays encountered.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveller info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• With its lengthy Pacific coastline, it’s no surprise that Chile is one of the world’s seafood capitals. Ceviche, mussels with salsa verde, and seafood empanadas are all not to be missed.
• While in Patagonia, be sure to try Patagonian lamb, a regional specialty.
• In Argentina, perhaps the most common dish is the asado, a series of salt-rubbed meats, ribs, and chorizo sausages cooked over a fire pit on metal grills and crosses. For dessert, try dulce de leche, a sweet, honeyand-milk paste in pastries.
• Chile operates on 220 volts and uses Types C or L plugs with two round pins or three round pins, respectively.
• Argentina operates on 220 volts and uses Types C or I plugs with two round pins or three flat pins, respectively.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• The strength of the air conditioning in some hotels in this region may not be as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it is usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply. In more remote locations, internet access may be limited and is not guaranteed.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Argentina and mainland Chile are three hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and two hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET). Argentina does not currently observe Daylight Saving Time, though the country decides on a year-by-year basis. Chile stopped observing Daylight Saving Time in 2015.
• In February, when it’s noon in New York City, it’s 1pm in Chile and Argentina.
• You will use the Chilean peso in Chile and the Argentine peso in Argentina.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $7USD to $10USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information. International travel is, by its very nature, unpredictable. We must therefore reserve the right to change this itinerary, without advance notice, to meet with local conditions at the time of travel. We appreciate your understanding. Please refer to our website for Terms & Conditions, dates, and prices.

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"I love watching our guests discover the fascinating cultures of South America, from dancing the tango in Buenos Aires, to learning the traditional art of Andean weaving in Peru."

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Trek the Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu

Walk the ancient pathway of the Incas and ascend to Machu Picchu, known as the Lost City in the Clouds. You’ll explore this UNESCO site with a Local Specialist, who will reveal the mysteries of the great Incan civilisation. See the iconic Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and a centuries-old sundial.

Enjoy the views of Iguazu Falls

Stretching across Argentina and Brazil, the Iguazu Falls are a monumental feat of nature. It’s the largest waterfall system in the world, and we’ll take you on an eco-train through the rainforest and along the catwalks to see the thundering waters. We’ll also show you the crown jewel of Iguazu, the mighty Devil’s Throat.

Climb Corcovado & admire Rio de Janeiro beneath you

Rising from the Tijuca Forest, Corcovado is a towering peak, visible from all over Rio de Janeiro. We’ll climb aboard a cogwheel train and make the journey to the summit, where you’ll find the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Marvel at this 38-meter sculpture and soak up the spectacular views of the city.

Take in the epic views in Patagonia

Our South America trips take you to the ends of the earth to Patagonia, a magnificent wilderness spanning Argentina and Chile. You’ll discover turquoise lakes, colossal glaciers, incredible wildlife and the rugged Andes mountains. Our Local Specialists will guide you through fjords and icefields, and introduce you to the ancient history and culture of Patagonia.

Discover the wildlife in Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands is one of the best places to travel in South America, with some of the world’s best wildlife viewing and scores of species found nowhere else on earth. We’ll go in search of the endemic wildlife that inspired Charles Darwin, including penguins, fur seals and the giant Galapagos tortoise.

Our top 5 things to do in South America

We’ll show you where to travel in South America, from the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu to the beautiful glacial wilderness of Patagonia.

Museum of Tomorrow

Set in a massive futuristic building, the Museum of Tomorrow reveals a glimpse of life in the future. The museum combines science with art, and displays digital ideas rather than objects and artefacts. Discover exhibitions on the Cosmos, Earth and Tomorrow, with interactive experiments and new initiatives for a sustainable world.

The Museo Inka is one of the world’s best museums on the Inca Empire. It’s filled with ancient mummies, crockery, jewellery, textiles, models, goldwork and the world’s largest collection of queros (ceremonial wooden drinking vessels). You can easily spend a few hours immersing yourself in the extraordinary world of the Incas.

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

Originally built in Paris, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes was moved to Buenos Aires in the early 1900s. Housed in a beautiful building, the museum holds the largest collection of art in Latin America and an excellent collection of European art, spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Best museums in South America

Our tours of South America take you to all the best museums across the continent, from the vivid history of the Incas, to a fascinating look into the future. 

Empanadas are one of the most-loved South American dishes. Their name means ‘enbreaded’, or wrapped in bread, and they’re made by folding dough over a stuffing of meat, cheese or vegetables. They can be baked or fried, and you’ll find these tasty treats on streets all over the continent.

The Brazilians have been making moqueca for the past 300 years, and it’s the quintessential dish of Afro-Brazilian culture. Originally from Bahia, the dish is made from fresh fish mixed with coconut milk, tomatoes, garlic, onions, lime and coriander. Our Local Specialists will show you their favorite places to taste this delicious stew.

Traditional Asado

An asado is a traditional Argentine barbecue and a beloved part of the country’s culture. You’ll find a variety of meat such as beef, chicken, pork and chorizo, grilled on a parrilla (open fire). Served with red wine and salads, you can find asados on street corners across the country.

Best food in South America

The best South American vacations soak up the superb cuisine of the region, and we’ll show you all the top places to taste traditional Latin dishes.

What to pack for South America

All climate clothing

When you tour Latin America, you’ll need clothing to cover a range of climates, from the icy fjords of Patagonia, to the dripping jungles of Brazil.

Versatile shoes

You’ll encounter a variety of terrains in South America, and you’ll need to pack shoes that can take you from hiking the Inca Trail to dancing the tango in Buenos Aires. 

South America is filled with some of the world’s most astonishing scenery, so be sure to bring a camera to capture all the magical moments. 

Blank journal

You’re bound to be struck by inspiration as you encounter the landscapes and people of South America. A journal is a great way to record your memories to share with friends back home. 

You’ll cover some epic distances when you travel Latin America, and a pair of headphones will provide some entertainment as you gaze out at the passing vistas.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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South America

Luxury South America Tours and Vacations

South America is the continent for history and nature lovers, for the culturally curious, for gourmets, or anyone looking for a great tour. Its stunning geography and intriguing history allow for a range of immersive experiences. Who won’t be overawed by the incredible salt flats at  Uyuni  in  Bolivia ? Or by the raucous rainforests of the Amazon in  Brazil , or the chilly glaciers and peaks of  Argentina ’s Patagonia? There are exuberant cities that salsa and tango late into the night, and capitals like  Peru ’s Lima and  Ecuador ’s Quito, that exude classic historic charm. In contrast, you will find rejuvenating calm at seaside retreats or at the centuries-old estancias of  Uruguay .

With so much to see and do, your wish-list can go out of hand. It may be difficult to figure out how to make the best of your vacation time or what is the best time to visit South America , especially when you’re looking at a continent this size. Why not leave the time-consuming planning to the experts at Enchanting Travels? You only need to make a few choices. Whether you want to start high up in the Andes of Chile , lower down in the Amazon Basin, on a Caribbean beach in Colombia , or in the stunning Galapagos Islands . Then sit back and relax, and let our super-attentive team see your trip through, from start to finish.

Popular Trips to South America

Brazil: Treasures of the Amazon

If you want to truly experience the best of what the fabulous Amazon region has to offer, this is the tour for you. Enjoy canoe rides and guided hikes around the Mamiraua Reserve to spot wildlife such as howler monkeys and uakaris. Go on an excursion to look for river dolphins and caimans at Mamiraua…

Brazil: Pantanal & Amazon

This is the perfect tour for nature and wildlife enthusiasts who want to experience the rich biodiversity of the world’s largest rainforest and the world’s largest wetland. Explore the assorted charms of Rio de Janeiro before heading into the Pantanal region. Enjoy guided hikes, and horseback and canoe rides around the wetlands to learn about…

Peru: Lima, Rainforest and Machu Picchu

Delve into the natural beauty, culture and history of Peru over the course of 11 memorable days. Savor the culinary delights of Lima after a day of exploring its colonial architecture. You might find yourself taking plenty of pictures as you admire the scenic landscapes and wildlife around Puerto Maldonado. Round off your Peruvian vacation…

Brazil: Amazonas, Iguazu and Bahia

Discover untamed nature, wildlife and authentic local culture on this 15-day luxury Brazil vacation. Travel straight from one stunning highlight to another – from the buzzing beaches of Rio to the thundering Iguazu Falls, and the Amazon rainforest. Afterward, spend days exploring the vibrant Bahia region with its rich culture, colonial heritage and delicious Afro-Brazilian…

Peru: Traditions of the Sacred Valley

Go off the beaten track at Peru’s Urubamba Valley, or the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and discover a unique cultural landscape and communities. Explore historic villages such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Lamay, and visit Machu Picchu, Cusco and Lake Titilaka in Puno.

Peru: Luxury Highlights & Belmond Hiram Bingham Experience

Soak in the raw beauty of Peru on this 15-day tour that allows you to experience this stunning country aboard two iconic trains – Belmond Hiram Bingham and Belmond Andean Explorer. Start your exploration in the capital city of Lima, before chugging along past the Peruvian Andes to Cusco on the Andean Explorer. Marvel at…

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Best Places To Visit

The romance and rhythm of an Argentina tour can take so many joyful forms. A speedboat ride under the thundering Iguazu Falls, results in a thrilling dousing from the cascading waters.

A holiday in Bolivia, high up in the Andes, will surely rank as one of the most enriching travel experiences you have ever had.

Almost every holiday in Brazil begins in the capital Rio de Janeiro. Go the tourist way, stopping at all the famous sites from Copacabana beach to the statue of Christ the Redeemer.

The adulation will start even before your holiday does, before the plane you’re on lands in Chile. Flying into this Andean country, views of snowy volcanic peaks and a jag.ged coastline will up the ante of expectations

Wherever your Colombia tour takes you, music and dance will accompany the journey. Colombia’s varied dance and music heritage blends indigenous, African, Cuban, Caribbean, and European influences, and is an integral part of every region from the high Andes to Caribbean beaches.

Machu Picchu is surely the high-point of a Peru holiday, and with good reason. It is as magnificent as the legends and mysteries that surround it.

Ecuador is small in size, but big on authentic travel experiences. In the Mindo Cloud Forest, Howler monkeys bark in the distance, while a colorful toucan sits on a branch overhead.

Ecuador & Galapagos

A holiday in Uruguay is about indulgences. A glass of fine wine tastes that much better when sampled in the rolling countryside where it was produced.

Best Time To Visit

There are several different types of landscapes in this vast continent, and the climatic zones will vary greatly on your trip. Read an overview by country from our destination experts.

Things To Do

Imposing glaciers, vast deserts, endless salt flats, and the roaring Iguazu Falls – South America has it all. Get your lowdown on where to go and the top things to do in South America.

From the Blog

Your Ultimate Guide to the Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of 2019

They are stunning feats of architectural genius, historic centers of ancient cities, or incredibly rich habitats that are fast disappearing. Curated by our experts, discover 2019’s top 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites from our exotic world.

Iguazu Falls: Which side of the South American stunner should you see?

The Iguazu Falls are an absolute highlight of a South America vacation. Located on the triple frontier of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, you can see the world’s largest waterfalls from the Argentine side as well as the Brazilian side. But, which side is better for you?

Our top 10 Haciendas and Estancias in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay

Discover why a tour in Argentina, Uruguay and Chile is incomplete without a stay in the charming estancias and haciendas that these countries are known for.

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Spend a once-in-a- lifetime night on the regal grounds of a former residence of King Henry VIII and Elizabeth I.

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Business | Only one North American airport makes list of…

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Business | Only one North American airport makes list of world’s best

Ali versus Frazier. The Red Sox versus the Yankees. Doha versus Singapore.

For the last decade, Singapore’s Changi International Airport and Doha’s Hamad International Airport have been going back and forth, battling over the title of “world’s best.”

Every year, UK-based airline and airport review and ranking site Skytrax surveys travelers from around the globe to compile its list of the best airports in the world, and for 2024 the honor goes to Qatar’s airport, which is known for its ultra-modern design, easy-to-navigate terminals and high-end shopping.

Singapore (SIN) had the title in 2023 and 2020, while Doha (DOH) took the gong in 2022 and 2021.

“This year, [Hamad International Airport] celebrates its milestone tenth year of operations and we are truly honored that passengers have voted us Best Airport in the World for a third time,” Qatar Airways Group’s CEO, Badr Mohammed Al Meer, said in a statement. “We look forward to continuing to surprise and delight passengers by creating memorable and exceptional passenger journeys in the years to come.”

DOH is one of several airports that offer free city tours for passengers with long layovers, which earned it high marks from respondents. It’s also home to the Oryx Airport Hotel , where visitors can enjoy spa treatments, a squash court and an 82-foot swimming pool.

The Skytrax rankings were announced at the World Airport Awards in Frankfurt, Germany, on April 17. Data for the list was collected between August 2023 to March 2024 from people of more than 100 nationalities. Respondents were polled on a variety of topics, from ease of getting through security checkpoints to quality and variety of food and drink.

European airports dominate

Nine of the top 20 best airports are in Europe, including Vienna, Madrid and Istanbul. But the highest placer of the group is Paris’ Charles de Gaulle (CDG), in sixth. The French capital has invested heavily in updating infrastructure ahead of the Paris Olympics this summer, and it looks like that work has paid off.

CDG’s terminal 3 was named the world’s best low cost terminal, and Paris’ Orly (ORY) has been named the best regional airport in Europe.

Other European airports also scored accolades from Skytrax. Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) scored the prize for world’s best airport security processing, Zurich Airport (ZRH) was named best in class in the 20- 30 million passengers per year division and Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) ranked the highest in the 10-20 million annual passengers category.

Japan shines

Seven of Skytrax’s top 20 airports are in Asia. Both of Tokyo’s hubs, Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT), landed in the top 10, with Haneda one spot ahead of its sibling airport in fourth.

New Chitose Airport in Sapporo (CTS) won the prize for the world’s most improved airport, while Chubu Centrair International Airport in Nagoya (NGO) was named best in class for the airports with 5-10 million passengers per year category.

Kansai International Airport (KIX), which serves the Osaka area, scored the award for the world’s best airport baggage delivery.

Regional highlights

In all, 570 airports were evaluated around the world.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) was crowned the best airport in North America.

Down under, Melbourne Airport (MEL) took the highest honor for the Australia-Pacific region.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) was named the best airport in India.

Cape Town Airport (CPT) won the prize for the best airport in Africa, as well as recognition for being the African airport with the best staff service. King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban was the winner in the category for airports with under five million annual passengers.

El Dorado International Airport (BOG), which serves Bogota, Colombia, was voted the best airport in South America, while Panama Tocumen Airport (PTY) won the honor of best airport for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Not just airports

In addition to ranking airports, Skytrax also gives out honors for exceptional airport hotels.

The retro-inspired TWA Hotel at New York JFK was named the best airport hotel in North America. Others recognized in this category were the Hyatt Regency Shenzhen (best in China), Hilton Munich Airport (best in Europe), and the Crowne Plaza Changi Airport (best in the world, for the ninth year running).

The world’s best airports for 2024

1. Doha Hamad Airport

2. Singapore Changi Airport

3. Seoul Incheon Airport

4. Tokyo Haneda Airport

5. Tokyo Narita Airport

6. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

7. Dubai Airport

8. Munich Airport

9. Zurich Airport

10. Istanbul Airport

11. Hong Kong Airport

12. Rome Fiumicino Airport

13. Vienna Airport

14. Helsinki-Vantaa

15. Madrid-Barajas

16. Centrair Nagoya Airport

17. Vancouver Airport

18. Kansai Airport

19. Melbourne Airport

20. Copenhagen Airport

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Best of South America

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 3 Paracas
• Day 4 Nazca
• Day 5 Arequipa
• Day 6 Arequipa
• Day 7 Colca Canyon
• Day 8 Arequipa
• Day 9 Arequipa - Overnight Bus to Cusco
• Day 10 Cusco
• Day 11 Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or Train option
• Day 12 Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or Train option
• Day 13 Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or Train option
• Day 14 Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or Train option and Machu Picchu / Ollantaytambo
• Day 15 Sacred Valley / Cusco
• Day 16 Cusco
• Day 17 Puno - Lake Titicaca
• Day 18 Puno
• Day 19 Puno
• Day 20 La Paz
• Day 21 La Paz
• Day 22 La Paz
• Day 23 Sucre
• Day 24 Sucre
• Day 25 Potosi
• Day 26 Uyuni
• Day 27 Salar de Uyuni
• Day 28 Salar de Uyuni
• Day 29 Uyuni
• Day 30 Uyuni – Tilcara
• Day 31 Tilcara
• Day 32-34 Buenos Aires
• Day 35 Buenos Aires
• Day 36 Colonia del Sacramento
• Day 37 Estancia Stay
• Day 38-39 Estancia Stay
• Day 40 Overnight Bus - Iguazu Falls
• Day 41 Iguazu Falls (Brazilian Side)
• Day 42 Iguazu Falls (Argentinian side)
• Day 43 Rio de Janeiro
• Day 44 Rio de Janeiro
• Day 45-46 Paraty
• Day 47 Paraty – Ilha Grande
• Day 48-49 Ilha Grande
• Day 50 Rio de Janeiro
• Day 51 Rio de Janeiro

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Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• Kathryn · 28th February 2024 The tour was excellent including our guide Marisol Maydana She made me feel safe , gave good information daily on... Show more
• Yilin · 26th February 2024 Bolivia is such a beautiful country, totally worth the time and effort visiting! The tour is adventurous requiring... Show more
• Lesley · 11th January 2024 Julia made this trip perfect. She was a brilliant guide. The accommodation was of varying standards but the itinerary... Show more

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• January 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• December 2025

Space on this tour is not guaranteed. Book this tour to request your place and the operator will confirm availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currencies $ Argentine Peso Argentina Bs. Boliviano Bolivia R$ Brazilian Real Brazil S/. Sol Peru $ Peso Uruguayo Uruguay

As a traveller from USA, Canada you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, I, L. As a traveller from England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, I, A, B, L. As a traveller from Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, A, B, L.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay and Bolivia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay and Bolivia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay and Bolivia. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Argentina, Peru, Uruguay and Bolivia. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Recommended for Argentina, Brazil, Peru and Bolivia. Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Uruguay. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Brazil, Peru and Bolivia. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 22nd June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 22nd June 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Watch CBS News

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on U.S. microchip production, blocking of sales to China, Russia

By Lesley Stahl

April 21, 2024 / 7:00 PM EDT / CBS News

What does the secretary of commerce do? Until now, mainly promote U.S. businesses abroad. It had not been a high-profile job til Gina Raimondo turned the second-tier agency into a center of job creation, manufacturing, and national security.  

Once the governor of Rhode Island, Raimondo, at 52, seems to have come out of nowhere to become a rising star of the Democratic party, and of the Biden administration.

As commerce secretary, she's running new projects that could touch the lives of every American, and she's helping lead the expanding Cold War with China and confront Russia's aggression in Ukraine. The battlefield for both those conflicts is technology.

Gina Raimondo: If you think about national security today in 2024, it's not just tanks and missiles; it's technology. It's semiconductors. It's AI. It's drones. And the Commerce Department is at the red-hot center of technology.

And at the red-hot center: a global "chip war" that ramped up, says Gina Raimondo, when Russia invaded Ukraine .  

Gina Raimondo: The Commerce Department stopped all semiconductor chips from being sold to Russia. Every drone, every missile, every tank has semiconductors in them. And, you know Lesley, you know we are being effective because shortly after we started that work we heard stories of the Russians taking semiconductors out of refrigerators, out of dishwashers--

Lesley Stahl: What?

Gina Raimondo: –out, out of breast pumps, getting the chips--

Lesley Stahl: Oh, come– 

Gina Raimondo: --to put them into their military equipment. 

Lesley Stahl: However, the Russians are now working their way around this--

Gina Raimondo: They are.

Lesley Stahl: --and successfully. And they're doing better in the war, probably, because of this. 

Gina Raimondo: You are right in what you say. 

But, she says-- 

Gina Raimondo: It's absolutely the case that our export controls have hurt their ability to conduct the war, made it harder. And we are enforcing this every minute of every day, doing everything we can.

These are some of the enforcers: 

Thea Kendler (assistant secretary of commerce for Export Administration):Push to talk about our controls on Russia--

--Raimondo's team at Commerce that monitors and polices the ban on any company in the world from selling products with American chips in them to Russia. but not just Russia.

President Biden (during State of the Union): I've made sure that the most advanced American technologies can't be used in China. 

The Chinese warn that these export controls could trigger an escalating trade war.

Lesley Stahl: Trade with China accounts for 750,000 U.S. jobs. 

Gina Raimondo: Mmhmm.

Lesley Stahl: And if trade ends, we lose those jobs. 

Gina Raimondo: We want to trade with China on the vast majority of goods and services. But on those technologies that affect our national security, no. 

Lesley Stahl: Those advanced chips are in consumer goods. Banks use them—

Gina Raimondo: Mmhmm. 

Lesley Stahl: --hospitals. This is going toward products that are made for civilian use. 

Gina Raimondo: Yep. Well, they also go into nuclear weapons, surveillance systems. And we know they want these chips and our sophisticated technology to advance their military.

Her toughness has made her a target in China, where fake ads have her promoting the new Chinese-made smartphone.

Last year, the government in Beijing hacked her email. When she was in China, on a trip ironically to improve relations, the tech company Huawei introduced that new smartphone with an advanced, Chinese-made chip. 

Lesley Stahl: It was kind of in your face—

Lesley Stahl: --as if to say, "Look at the chip that we have." And it was a pretty good, high-level chip, right? 

Gina Raimondo: Well, I have their attention, clearly. And--

Lesley Stahl: And they've gotten yours.

Gina Raimondo: Hmm. Well, what it tells me is the export controls are working because that chip is not nearly as good--

Lesley Stahl: It's not?

Gina Raimondo: --it's years behind what we have in the United States. We have the most sophisticated semiconductors in the world. China doesn't. We've out-innovated China.

Lesley Stahl: Well, "we," you mean Taiwan?

Gina Raimondo: Fair. 

While American tech companies design the world's most advanced chips , none are actually made in the U.S. Ninety percent of them come from Taiwan, and they are key to the future of U.S. military weaponry. 

Lesley Stahl: And China, from time to time, threatens, you know, the wolf, to invade Taiwan. 

Lesley Stahl: And some people say the whole reason is to get their hands on those chips. 

Gina Raimondo: That's a problem, it's a risk, it makes us vulnerable. 

The problem of our outsourcing production goes way beyond high tech with millions of American workers having lost their jobs that went overseas, something Raimondo knows first-hand growing up as the youngest child in an Italian-American family in Rhode Island. 

Gina Raimondo: This is the old Bulova watch factory where my dad worked for almost 30 years.

Her dad lost his job when Bulova abandoned the factory in 1983 and moved its operations to China. 

Gina Raimondo: It's hard for you to imagine it now as you look around here. But this was, you know, a bustling place. You know, they had 1,000 people working here, food trucks on the sidewalk, an electroplating shop there, a tool and dye shop there. And now, this is what you have. 

Lesley Stahl: And how old were you?

Gina Raimondo: I was in, like, sixth grade. But I saw the toll it took on my dad and my family. 

And that influenced her career choices from when she studied economics and played rugby at Harvard– 

Gina Raimondo: So, this is my office.

--to when she left a high-paying job as a venture capitalist to run for public office in Rhode Island. 

Gina Raimondo: This was the day that I was sworn in as State Treasurer, and those are my parents. That's my dad.

Lesley Stahl: That's your dad--

Gina Raimondo: Super proud of me.

Lesley Stahl: --the man who worked at Bulova. 

Gina Raimondo: The man who worked at Bulova. The man who taught me about manufacturing, tau-- taught me that a job is about your pride, ability to take care of your family, not just a paycheck. 

Married with two children, Raimondo--a Rhodes scholar and Yale Law School graduate--was elected the state's first female governor in 2014 as a moderate, pro-business Democrat. 

Lesley Stahl: Liberals in your party, this is a quote, look upon you as a sellout to big business. 

Gina Raimondo: I think that's ridiculous. I hold businesses accountable as much as anyone. When I tell them they can't sell their semiconductors to China, they don't love that. But I do that.

In late 2020, President-elect Joe Biden called her about leading the Commerce Department, which til then managed--without much fanfare or headlines--a mishmash of agencies and assignments, ranging from monitoring the weather to measuring the level of contaminants in household dust. 

Lesley Stahl: So, one day, President-elect Biden calls you and said, "What about being Commerce Secretary?" And you heard that and thought?

Gina Raimondo: (laugh) Init-- truthfully, initially, I thought, "What does the Commerce Secretary do?" 

Lesley Stahl: Yeah. (laugh)

Gina Raimondo: And then the president-elect said to me, "Come. I want you to work with me to help rebuild American manufacturing." And I called my brother, my big brother, and he said, "Gina, dad would be so proud. You gotta do it. You gotta do it." And that was it.

Once at Commerce, she began to lean on Congress-

Gina Raimondo (during congressional testimony): This is just good business--

--to fund her new programs with $100 billion, including $50 billion for the bipartisan " CHIPS Act " that she is now dispensing to reduce America's reliance on Taiwan.

Gina Raimondo (during Intel "CHIPS Act" award announcement): It's a huge day for the entire country.

Last month in Arizona, she announced her first award for making leading-edge chips in the U.S. to Intel. 

Gina Raimondo (during Intel "CHIPS Act" award announcement): We are announcing our intention to invest $8.5 billion in Intel , America's champion semiconductor company. (applause)

Intel intends to construct and modernize facilities in Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon, and Ohio. 

She's made two other big awards totaling $13 billion to Taiwan-based TSMC, and the South Korean company Samsung, to make the world's most advanced chips in Arizona and Texas.

Raimondo is also spreading her largesse elsewhere in the country with another huge initiative, the "Internet For All" program.

We went with her to a Corning factory in North Carolina, the world's largest manufacturer of fiber optic cable.

Wendell Weeks: You're looking at fiber on these spools, all different colors. What's inside of there is actually one of the most precise products ever manufactured by man. 

Wendell Weeks, chairman and CEO of Corning, is expanding production to make some of the 10 million miles of new cable that's needed to connect the 24 million Americans, living mostly in rural America, who don't have access to high-speed internet. And under prodding by Raimondo, he's investing Corning's own capital to do it.

Wendell Weeks: We've invested another half-billion dollars and doubled our footprint for the U.S. 

Lesley Stahl: When you're spending all this money to connect, you know, small numbers of people who live miles away, the expense almost doesn't make sense. 

Gina Raimondo: It does make sense. The internet is no longer a luxury. You need it to see the doctor, to go to school, to do your business, to pay your bills, to sign up for, you know, Social Security. Everyone has electricity in this country. Everyone ought to have the internet.

Together, she says, the Internet For All and the CHIPS Act initiatives will create about a half-million jobs by 2030. But Wall Street is skeptical. Intel, for example, just reported $7 billion in operating losses. 

Lesley Stahl: When you go to pick these different companies to give the money to-- 

Lesley Stahl: --it's, it's social, industrial policy, something, you know, we gave up because it was shown that private industry does a better job picking. You're smiling.

Gina Raimondo: Well, do they? Because in the case of semiconductors the market didn't get it right. 

Lesley Stahl: How did we lose this? 

Gina Raimondo: We allowed manufacturing in this country to wither on the vine in search of cheaper labor in Asia, cheaper capital in Asia, and here we are. We just pursued profit over national security.

Lesley Stahl: There are strings attached to these grants. They have to provide daycare. You want them to have a diverse workforce-- 

Lesley Stahl: --be union workers? 

Gina Raimondo: That is not social policy, Lesley. That's--

Lesley Stahl: Sounds like it.

Gina Raimondo: --it's math. This is pure math.

Lesley Stahl: What do you--

Gina Raimondo: You won't have enough workers to do the job unless you figure out how to get women working in the facilities. What I am--

Lesley Stahl: But-- but on that point, if they need women--

Lesley Stahl: --and women need daycare, that's a decision for the company to make. Why mandate it if it's what they need?

Gina Raimondo: It's not mandated. To be clear, these are not mandates.

Lesley Stahl: But it's written in there.

Gina Raimondo: It is written. But you know what's funny, I never hear complaints about this from the companies. The only complaints I have are from politicians. 

In her three years in Washington, Raimondo has elevated the Commerce Department and its secretary into a high-profile player. 

Gina Raimondo: China wakes up every day figuring out how to get around our regulations. We got to wake up every day that much more relentless and aggressive. So, I bring it every day. 

Lesley Stahl: So here comes the inevitable, obvious question that you know is coming your way. You are on a list of future presidential candidates. Does that sound good to you? Is it appetizing? 

Gina Raimondo: What sounds good to me is being the best commerce secretary there's ever been.

One qualification for high office is being able to duck a question like that.

Produced by Richard Bonin. Associate producer, Mirella Brussani. Broadcast associate, Wren Woodson and Aria Een. Edited by April Wilson.

• United States Department of Commerce

One of America's most recognized and experienced broadcast journalists, Lesley Stahl has been a "60 Minutes" correspondent since 1991.

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North America tours

The splendor of national parks, the bustle of a big city, the charm of historic small towns—it's all right here in the U.S. and Canada. These North America trips prove there's no place quite like home.

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What travelers say about our North America tours

Travel tips for our north america tours.

With so many destinations in North America to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to decide where to go. That's where we come in! We have a team of experts specializing in this region, and they can help you navigate our North America tours to find the one that's right for you.

All of our North America tour packages give you the opportunity to visit must-see sites with an expert leading the way. What kind of experience would you like to have on your trip?

• Spotting fall foliage in New England
• Riding the Rocky Mountaineer train in Banff National Park
• Seeing the edge of the Grand Canyon
• Strolling through the French Quarter in New Orleans
• Tasting wine in Napa Valley

North America is incredible from coast to coast. Check out our U.S. tours and Canada tours for more ideas to add to your travel wish list.

With varying climates across its many regions, North America is a year-round destination. The best time to travel on our escorted tours of North America depends on the type of experience you'd like to have during your trip, and which locations you'll be visiting.

Summer is a popular time to visit coastal regions, as well as national parks in the U.S. and Canada. In the autumn, New England and the Canadian Maritimes burst with fall foliage. If Alaska is on your list, late spring through the early fall is your best bet—and Hawaii is a fantastic destination all year long.

We always recommend packing light for North America tours. You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at the airport, so one suitcase and one carry-on per person is a good guideline.

Take a look at what the weather will be in your destination so you're prepared for the temperature (which may be quite different than at home!). Bring lightweight clothing that can be easily layered, in case of any unexpected changes in temperature. Be sure to bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes as well, since our North America group tours involve exploring with local guides.

After you've reserved one of our guided tours of North America, we'll send you more information about how to prepare for your trip and share a packing list in our mobile Tour Companion App .

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