Flying to South America on Points: The Surcharge-Free Trick

By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated July 2026

The short answer: South America is one of the friendliest regions for award fees, mostly because Avianca LifeMiles, a major program for the continent, adds no fuel surcharges at all. Government taxes are moderate, with Colombia’s non-resident departure tax the main thing to watch. Book through LifeMiles or United and you can reach most of the continent in a premium cabin for very little cash.

A rare bright spot for award fees

After the eye-watering surcharges of Europe and the Gulf, South America is a relief. The government taxes are mostly moderate, and the region’s biggest award program, Avianca LifeMiles, does not pass fuel surcharges at all. Put those together and a business-class seat to Bogota, Lima, or Santiago can cost almost nothing beyond the miles.

Avianca LifeMiles, the surcharge-free hero

LifeMiles is one of the best-kept secrets in the hobby for exactly this reason: it charges no fuel surcharges on award tickets, and it books Star Alliance carriers widely, including across South America and to Europe. Combined with frequent transfer bonuses from the major banks, it is often the cheapest way to fly the continent in cash. If you take one thing from this guide, it is to price your South America award through LifeMiles first.

The government taxes to know

The taxes here are manageable, with one standout to watch.

Country	Government tax	Notes
Colombia	Non-resident departure tax, ~$40+	The main one to watch; sometimes bundled into the fare
Brazil	Moderate	Standard airport and departure taxes
Argentina	Moderate	Check the current rate at booking
Peru	Moderate	Airport departure fee
Chile	Low	The old US reciprocity fee was abolished

Colombia’s departure tax for non-residents is the one that surprises people, though it is sometimes waived for short stays or included in the ticket. Everything else is standard airport taxation.

The airlines and programs

Beyond LifeMiles, your options include United for Star Alliance routings via Copa’s Panama hub, and Delta for LATAM, now a joint-venture partner. GOL is bookable through Smiles. But for surcharge-free premium seats, Avianca LifeMiles and United are the workhorses. See programs that avoid fuel surcharges for the full picture.

How to fly there cheaply

Price it through Avianca LifeMiles first. No fuel surcharges and broad Star Alliance access.
Use United for Copa routings through Panama if LifeMiles space is tight.
Budget for Colombia’s departure tax if that is your gateway.
Compare the full total. With LifeMiles the cash is usually tiny, but always confirm before you transfer. See how the fee math works.

See exactly what an award costs

Stop guessing at point values. Look up the real award price and live availability for a specific trip before you transfer.

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Frequently asked questions

Does Avianca LifeMiles charge fuel surcharges?

No. LifeMiles adds no fuel surcharges on award tickets, which makes it one of the cheapest ways in cash to fly South America and beyond.

Which South American country has the highest award taxes?

Colombia stands out for its non-resident departure tax, though it is sometimes waived for short stays or bundled into the fare. Most other countries charge moderate, standard airport taxes.

What is the cheapest way to fly to South America on points?

Book through Avianca LifeMiles, which adds no fuel surcharges and covers Star Alliance widely, or use United for Copa routings through Panama.

Do you pay taxes on award flights to South America?

Yes, standard government and airport taxes apply, but they are moderate, and with a surcharge-free program like LifeMiles the total cash cost stays low.

Is LifeMiles good for premium cabins?

Yes. Because it charges no surcharges and books Star Alliance business and first class, LifeMiles is a favorite for premium South America and transatlantic awards.