Los Angeles to South America: Flight Times & Routes

No nonstop LAX → South America flights exist. All routes connect—typically via Mexico, Panama, or US hubs.

Shortest Typical Routing

LAX → MEX (Mexico City) → BOG (Bogotá): ~6h 45m total (2h 30m + 4h 15m + layover). ~10h 35m door-to-door with typical 1.5h connection.

Other Common Routes

• LAX → PTY (Panama City) → South America: Copa Airlines hub. LAX-PTY 5h 30m; PTY to BOG/LIM/SCL/GRU/EZE 2–6h. Total 9–13h.
• LAX → IAH/DFW/ATL → South America: United/American/Delta hubs. Longer (12–16h) but more frequencies.
• LAX → GDL/MTY/CUN → South America: Mexican regionals. Rarely optimal.

Key Destinations & Best Gateways

Variables

Seasonal schedules, visa requirements (Mexico transit visa for some nationalities), weather (Andes fog, Caribbean storms), aircraft (737/320 vs. 787/350). Book 60–90 days out for best fares/connections.