Recommended Tour companies for South America

I'm planning a solo trip across South America from late November 2007 to March 2008, beginning with a 2 week spanish course in Cuzco. I've heard reports that it's best to do this trip independently, but becuase I'm a fairly small 25 year old girl with no previous Spanish experience I would rather do it with the reassurance and safety of an organised tour. As I hope to do the Inca Trail at the beginning of December I need to book all this very sharpish - like this week - at the moment though I'm just totally torn between tour companies.

STA have recommended me GAP adventures, Tucan Travel and Budget Expedetions - could anybody help me decide between these? GAP seem to have the most flexible tours (i was thinking I'd do a Peru/Bolivia tour which ends up in Buenos Aires, chill in BA for a bit alone, then start on another Arg/Brazil tour from BA to Rio, to try and hit Carnival in Feb...would this be a good plan?) but any advice here would be much appreciated - I am very pressed for time! I basically would like to be on a tour with young, fun and like-minded people, that combines adventure and activities with safe accomodation and transport, and not too pricey. Thanks!!

Mich Reply to this

I have booked two tours in South America with Imaginative Traveller - one covering Patagonia and one doing a comprehensive trip around Peru. I've travelled with Imtrav in Sri Lanka and Central America previously - had a ball. Reply to this

Hi,

if you want to do something really special and individual, have a look at discoverlatinamerica.travel. They suggest tours or organize one individually for you, according to what you want to do and see whereever in Latin America.
When you are in touch with them you can organize and book everything over the internet beforehand from home or wherever you are, they really help you out. I had a fantastic journey with them.

You'll have a great time! Reply to this