Gap Year Programs in South America

Picture this: Ancient Incan ruins alongside Spanish colonial cobblestone streets, while the beats of an African-Brazilian drum pour out of the city plaza. South American gap years do not disappoint! This is a continent with layers of history and natural landscapes that stop you in your tracks. When you’re hiking the cool Andean mountaintops or canoeing the misty Amazon River, you’ll have to take a pause to enjoy those views. Your gap year in South America happens only once, so savor the panorama! Hey...that’s the same word in Spanish. ;)

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A Guide to Gap Year in South America

Best Countries

The most ambitious gapper may hit all twelve South American countries! But if you don’t have time, we’ve picked two that should top your list.

Peru. South America gap years in Peru are filled with nature. Take a hike in the green and lush Amazon jungle or scramble around the rocky landscape that surrounds Lake Titicaca. But the height of the gap year in South America (11,000 feet!!) is the city of Cusco. Once a great Inca empire, Cusco is known today for its handicraft markets and hilly colonial cobblestone streets—and, of course, the nearby Machu Picchu. This lost city of the Incas is truly an icon of pre-Columbian civilization and not to be missed on gap year programs in South America!

Argentina. In Argentina, some gappers work on conservation projects in the rugged Patagonia desert. Others settle in Buenos Aires to live in the “Paris of South America,” a city known for art and fashion. The Portenos, as Buenos Aires residents are called, consider nightlife a true lifestyle. If you get thirsty from all that dancing, visit the must-see landmark, Iguazu Falls—the earth’s largest waterfall system.

Popular Activities

If you think it’s difficult to choose where to go for South America gap years, just wait until you have to choose what to focus on!

Language Immersion. Spanish is now the second-most spoken language in the world. A necessary life skill, perhaps? You bet! Spanish immersion programs for your South America gap years is the portal to your next job. Want something a little less mainstream? Try Portuguese immersion in Brazil. This language has quite a mighty speaking base too, with Portuguese now ranking 6th in the world for number of speakers, coming in just after Arabic.

Volunteering. Parts of South America still rank high in world poverty. If you’re looking to help local communities in need, there are definitely gap year programs in South America that fits that description. Consider participating in a gap year program teaching children or renovating a school. To create the most impact, make your way to rural Bolivia or Ecuador, where the need is greatest.

Whatever your objective for this “gap” journey, it’s sure to be met in beautiful South America.

What Else You Need to Know

Costs. If you’re planning your gap year in any or all (why not hop around?) South American countries, save up and plan ahead. Most gap year programs require a fee, which does not include airfare. Fortunately, South America has a relatively low cost of living by North American and UK standards. If you’re looking for external sources of support, create an online campaign, such as FundMyTravel.

Accommodations. Hostel, homestay, or your own studio apartment are all possible accommodation options, depending on your choice of gap year programs in South America. Be aware that you may not have consistent sources of electricity or heat in South America. Ask the right questions, so you come fully prepared!

Visas. Visa regulations and fees can vary greatly depending on both your destination and departure country. You don’t want to be stuck in the airport because you forgot to get a visa! Be sure to visit the GoAbroad's embassy directory for more information.

Safety. Crime is high in some areas of South America. As a visitor from a developed country, it’s important not to flash your cash or expensive jewelry. Travel smart and be alert, so you can fully enjoy your gap year in South America!

GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop

The decision to pack up and move to a new country for any extended period of time is no small feat! Just know that this experience may teach you more than you’ll ever learn in the classroom. The program you’ll join, the people you’ll meet, and the Peruvian ceviche you’ll devour (yum!) will be second to none. You, friend, are beginning a journey of exploration and growth beyond what you could ever imagine.

South American culture and etiquette is as varied as its landscape. However, in general, the South American lifestyle is relaxed. Buses may not arrive at the scheduled time, and family often comes before work. But most visitors settle in easily to this chill lifestyle. For North Americans, it’s a breath of fresh air to see people taking….their time? Pro Tip on greeting: Friends typically greet with a kiss on the cheek, and you’ll never see anyone gesturing “come here” with their palm facing up (remember to avoid this, too!). For the most part, people in South American value human connections. There’s always a fiesta with friends, and people find the time to have one last cafecito (little coffee) and conversation.

Sure, you can kick back and relax into that South American vibe. But your time down there will be busy! Whether you’re trailblazing the Amazon or building houses in Bolivia, gap year programs in South America will keep you on your toes—quite literally. This experience will teach the problem-solving and critical thinking skills necessary in any situation. How do you teach a child to read without resources? How do you live in a rural village without electricity? You’ve got this. Gap years in South America teach you something too. Qué perfecto!

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Latest Program Reviews

Amazing!

May 21, 2025by: Clo Debray - United KingdomProgram: South America Explorer with Gapforce

Peru and Ecuador are now my absolute favourite countries, the salkantay trek was breathtaking and truly a one in a lifetime experience that you have to see- the best five days of my life. Met loads of amazing like minded people too, friends for life for sure!!

Coolest 7 weeks of my life

May 21, 2025by: Connor Mackenzie - United KingdomProgram: South America Explorer with Gapforce

I had never been to South America before this programme, and now I feel I have thoroughly experienced what the continent has to offer. The Salkantay trek was probably the most insane 5 days of my life. Other highlights include getting to know my peers in Cuzco, and the plethora of outdoor activities in Baños.