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February means one thing above all in South America: Carnival. From Rio's samba spectacle to Bolivia's UNESCO-listed Oruro, the continent throws its biggest party of the year. It's also peak summer, with Patagonia glorious and beaches at their best. Here's where to be in February.
February is the second month of high summer — hot and humid in Brazil and the tropics, warm and long-dayed in Patagonia, and green in the wetter Andes. It's often the hottest month in the far south, making it excellent for hiking, and the Amazon remains warm and rainy.
As in January, expect heat at low altitudes and mild, breezy conditions down south.
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Carnival is February's headline act. Rio de Janeiro stages the world's most famous parade, but the celebrations are wonderfully varied:
Dates shift each year (sometimes into early March), so check ahead and book accommodation early.
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February remains prime Patagonia season, with warm days and full trail access in Torres del Paine and around Fitz Roy. Crowds are easing slightly compared with the New Year peak, though it's still busy.
It's also a fine month for the Chilean fjords and boat journeys to glaciers, when milder weather makes sailing more comfortable.
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Brazil's beaches remain a summer highlight, and the sea is at its warmest. For wildlife lovers, the Galápagos is superb in February — warm waters bring excellent snorkelling and the islands' famous creatures are highly active.
The Iguazú Falls continue to roar with summer rains feeding the cascades.
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If you're chasing Carnival, book months in advance — Rio and Salvador fill up and prices soar during the festivities. If you'd rather avoid the crush, plan your Patagonia or Galápagos leg around the Carnival dates and enjoy quieter marquee sights.
Carnival is a bucket-list experience, but the crowds and logistics reward local know-how — the right city, the right dates and beds booked early. Our small-group trips handle all of that, whether you want to be in the thick of the party or away exploring Patagonia. Explore our South America trips and experience the continent's most colourful month.
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