Top 20 Breathtaking Places to Explore in Brazil
Famous for its love of dancing, fun, festivals, and football, Brazil is one of those bucket list countries most want to visit in their lifetime.
It’s a unique land known for its firsts and originality and is home to the world-famous Rio Carnival, Samba, Capoeira, and of course Caipirinha. Having spent many months traveling around this extraordinary country, here is my choice for the best spots…
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1. Rio de Janeiro
The city offers something for everyone. Do you want to go hang-gliding? Then do it – the birds-eye view of Rio is hard to beat! Trekking? That is also a possibility.
Fancy visiting one of the seven world wonders? Go ahead, but do set a couple of hours aside since the ride up to Christ the Redeemer takes a little while.
Bored of hectic city life? Then I would suggest taking a tour of the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and then finishing the day enjoying the nightlife in Lapa, a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro which offers bars and clubs which cater to all tastes.
2. Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco
Situated 70 kilometers south of Recife, the town was until the 90’s an isolated fisherman village which now is accessible to anyone who is looking to relax and enjoy the amazing beaches the town has to offer.
Snorkeling is a must here as only a couple of hundred meters out in the sea you will find a reef and when the tide is low, natural pools are created on the beaches behind the reef.
In these natural aquariums, you will find a stunning selection of colorful fish. Other activities include water sports, trekking, Capoeira, and much more.
3. Lençóis National Park, Maranhão
Lençóis – located in the North of Brazil – provides a view that will leave you gasping for air. The national park is a “desert” unlike any other.
The rain collects in the alleys between the sand dunes which results in what could have been a desert an area where the sand dunes are varied with turquoise lagoons as far as the eye can see.
The lagoons are home to many different species of fish and one of the species stays dormant in the moist areas of the sand during the dry season only to surface when the lagoons once again emerge.
The stark contrast between white sand dunes and crystal clear lagoons makes Lençóis a must-see experience!
4. Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul
Pantanal is located in the Brazilian state Mato Grosso do Sul, except for small parts of the wetland that belongs to Bolivia and Paraguay.
It’s the world’s largest wetland and the place to go if you are interested in wildlife. The open marshes make it easy to spot the animals and the unspoiled region of Pantanal doesn’t have a large human population which means the wildlife flourishes.
The wetland offers beautiful landscapes as well as the chance to see a great variety of birds and other animals. You’ll get a chance to see reptiles as well as jaguars in their natural habitat.
5. Salvador, Bahia
Salvador is the first colonial capital of Brazil as well as one of the oldest cities in both North- and South America. Known to be the country’s capital of happiness, it offers numerous outdoor parties and the city´s street carnival is the largest in the world.
The beauty of the city is partly due to its location by the sea but it is much more than that – it has a rich music and architectural culture and a historic area filled with colorful colonial houses and cobblestoned streets.
6. Chapada Diamantina, Bahia
The gorgeous National Park Chapada Diamantina takes its name from the cliffs in the region as well as from the diamonds that were once found here.
Visiting the national park you will be provided a smorgasbord of beautiful views of the landscapes from different cliffs. You will see canyons, waterfalls, natural swimming pools caves and all-round wonderful untouched landscapes!
7. Jericoacoara, Ceara
This is a remote little beach town located in the Ceara state. You can get here by bus from Fortaleza to Jijoca, it’s not an easy journey but it is worth it!
This paradise-like town has not yet been destroyed by tourism.
The streets of sand, the beautiful beach, the kite-surfing, the breathtaking sunset views from the sand dunes, the Capoeira at the beach, the amazingly huge and starry night sky, the hammocks in the lagoon which are just a beach buggy ride away just some of the reasons to why Jericoacoara is one of the country’s hidden treasures.
8. Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco
Would you want to visit a beach so beautiful that just the sight of it will make you gasp for air? Do you want to swim with stingrays, sharks, and a variety of colorful fishes?
Do you want to see dolphins, sea turtles, and albatrosses? Well, here you can! Fernando de Noronha is a group of islands that belongs to Brazil.
The archipelago consists of 21 islands, islets, and rocks of volcanic origin and this UNESCO World Heritage-listed island is a paradise on earth for anyone interested in diving and animal life.
9. Iguazú Falls, Paraná
This is a world-famous beauty spot! The Iguazú Falls consist of more than 270 waterfalls of different sizes which border Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay are a truly amazing spectacle.
If in Brazil (or any of the other bordering countries) do not miss the opportunity to see what is one of Mother Nature´s greatest expressions of beauty in our world.
10. Paraty, Rio de Janeiro
This gorgeous coastal town was first settled in 1667, so there is a lot of history to it. It truly offers something for everyone, including cobblestone streets, magnificent forests, amazing waterfalls, and an emerald-green sea.
There is a lot to do and even more to look at when you visit Paraty, and even though it is compact enough to be enjoyed on foot, you’ll still find a lot of enjoyment and fun activities every step of the way.
There’s even a city center that provides you with information on how the town came to be what it is today.
11. Búzios, Rio de Janeiro
A resort town with roughly 34,000 residents, Búzios is the place to go when you want calmness and serenity, and a break from the hustle and bustle of a tourist’s life.
A lot of the people who live there are fishermen, and it offers all sorts of water activities, including swimming and surfing.
In fact, you’ll find a little bit of everything in this town, including shopping, restaurants, bars and lounges, art museums, and just about anything else you need to make your vacation unforgettable.
12. Florianópolis, Santa Catarina
Located in the southern part of Brazil, Florianópolis has a total of 60 beaches and is noted for its surfing opportunities. It bases its economy mainly on tourism and information technology, so tourists can find a lot to do there.
Radical sports and nature offer some of the best opportunities for tourists, as well as activities that include mountain climbing, hang-gliding, rowing, and paragliding.
It is connected to the continent by three bridges, one of which is the Hercilio Luz Bridge, which is famous but is now closed.
13. IlhaBela, São Paulo
Also known as Beautiful Island, which is what it is translated to in Portuguese, IlhaBela has a population of roughly 32,000 and offers attractions such as 360 waterfalls, numerous forests, hiking trails of all difficulty levels, and course, beaches.
There are a total of 41 beaches on the main island, so whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or watch the dolphins and whales, you’ll never run out of things to do.
With beautiful waters and even more beautiful skies, this is the place to be if you have a fondness for sand and surf.
14. Maragogi, Alagoas
Maragogi sits in the northwestern section of Brazil and offers lots of beaches and living tropical reefs. You can go snorkeling or scuba diving, or simply enjoy the many sights that give the place some ambiance.
Maragogi is filled with natural beauty and offers plenty of activities too. You can enjoy sea cliffs that seem to reach the sky and take a boat ride to get up close and personal with the coral reefs. Whatever you do there, it’s one place that is very hard to forget!
15. Trancoso, Bahia
Trancoso has two things going for it: lots of beaches, and an advanced way of thinking when it comes to reducing their carbon footprint.
It has lots of festivals to enjoy throughout the year, but its main attractions are all of the beaches that surround the area, each one seemingly more gorgeous than the previous one.
With white sand, reefs, and water that always seems to be at the perfect temperature, this is the perfect place to be when lots of time in the water and sun is what you’re looking for.
16. Campos do Jordão, São Paulo
A municipality in southeastern Brazil, Campos do Jordão is the highest city in Brazil, reaching 5,341 feet above sea level. Among the many activities for tourists are hiking, mountain climbing, treetop cable swings, and motorbike, and ATV riding.
There is also a festival that takes place every winter that celebrates classical music, and in addition to a really cool cable car, the town offers bars, restaurants, discos, and other activities that make for great nightlife.
In other words, this is one town that truly offers something for everyone.
17. Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro
One thing you will never be short of in this country is stunning paradise-esque beaches. Ilha Grande is an island located in the sea outside the state of Rio de Janeiro where you will find tropical beaches that will tempt you to purchase your own pousada and simply enjoy the tranquil island lifestyle for the rest of your days.
Previously a prison island, it offers good conditions for snorkeling with chances to see coral, tropical fish, whales, and even penguins.
The island, which has no roads or motorized vehicles, provides hiking trails to different beaches and villages. On the island, you are likely to spot both monkeys and hummingbirds.
18. Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro
Mostly known as the town that is home to Brazil’s national football team, this city sits in between mountains and hills and has lush green grass and some of the most beautiful scenery you’ve ever experienced.
There is a national park found on part of the city near the city limits, and mountain structures such as Devil’s Needle and God’s Finger are definitely worth paying a visit to.
There are also lakes, statues, and lake houses that are nothing short of extraordinary, and the farms in the area provide a little bit of nostalgia to this now-modern city, which I think is always a win-win situation!
19. Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro
Also known as The Imperial City, it is home to nearly 300,000 residents and offers activities to pique anyone’s interests.
These include theaters and museums, as well as lots of festivals and carnivals. You can also enjoy some very unique architecture, and if you love palaces, national parks, or old monasteries, this I think the place to be! You can visit these places individually or join a tour guide.
This large city offers all of the advanced benefits of any other large city, which means you’ll never run out of things to do. In fact, regardless of which month you visit the city, you’ll always have something interesting to do, I loved this place!
20. Amazon Rainforest
Although Brazil is known for its beautiful beaches and outstanding landmarks, another famous place to visit is the Amazon rainforest. The Amazon is the largest rainforest in the world.
The forest is split into 60% in the Brazilian territory, 13% in Peruvian and 10% in Colombian soil. The remaining 17% is distributed between French Guiana, Suriname, Guyana, Venezuela, Ecuador and Bolivia.
There are so many things to explore in this giant jungle, and one of them is to spot the pink dolphins or go bird watching as the forest is home to over 800 bird species. The best time to visit is during the low-water season which is from July until December.
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Emma-Clair Ni Clearaigh – writer and photographer
With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year, now she balances travel and travel writing with teaching and a passion for vintage interior design. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Although, she’ll always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages – Paris, her true city of lights. Find Emma-Clair on Instagram or Facebook .
Hotel Reviewing Experience – Asked by tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including the Catalonia Tourist Board , Visit Finland, Visit Zurich and Atout France. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .
22 thoughts on “Top 20 Breathtaking Places to Explore in Brazil”
Going to Visit brazil next week as I don’t know much about it so I was looking for a blog to know the best things to there thanks for this information. As Know I know What to do there.
WOOOOW the OXXXmmm place Brazil one day i will enjoy these natural beauty
Hope everyone get a chance to come to Brazil specially to Jericoacoara!
Oh Jericoacoara is so beautiful and this PIC is so… Bleh. We can find great pics on google.
Visitem Ibicoara, localizada na Bahia,chapada diamantina.
Rio and Ouro Preto are my top choice 😉
Thanks Escape Hunter! Good choices 🙂
So many reasons to visit Brazil! I’d love to visit Salvador and Ilha Grande especially. Gorgeous photos!
Very true, there’s so much more to the country!
Thanks for the suggestions Gabriel!
Wow what a country, I really must visit one day!
Hope you make it one day Scott!
They all look beautiful! Would love to visit and every one of them!
What a beautiful place, would love to go there.
Ilha Grande is a new find for me.. wow! so beautiful. Brazil is definitely one to really explore – thanks for the post, a great eye opener!
Thanks Adam!
There is also Pantanal in the state of Mato Grosso, not only in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Congratulations though for the overall text and pictures!
I want to go to all of these places! Brazil has been on my list for a long time now! Thanks for sharing.
Happy travels 🙂
I admire travelers who focus on South America, it’s such a gorgeous region with so much to see. Thanks for the inspiration!
Wow, I’ve fallen in love just with the pictures alone! It would be nice to get back to Brazil one day. Clearly Rio has so much to offer I could need an extended trip there.
I’m in love with Rio de Janeiro!!! Hope to make it there soon, perhaps in 2015!
What lovely photos and a great read! I wish I had spent longer in Brazil when I went last year as only saw Rio and Iguazu and would have loved to have visited some other parts including Salvador and Pantanal. I also can’t believe Ilha Grande was right there and I didn’t even know about it till just now! It looks stunning 🙂
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25 Best Places to Visit in South America, From the Wetlands of Brazil to Easter Island
Experts share their top sights on the continent.
Harrison Pierce is a freelance writer and digital nomad passionate about personal finance and travel. He is traveling full-time with the help of points and miles and enjoys connecting with people on the ground. His work has been published in Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, USA Today Blueprint, Matador Network, and other publications.
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As a digital nomad who works and travels full time, I spend a good portion of the year in South America. The first city I visited was Buenos Aires, and it immediately stole my heart — it is arguably one of the best cities on the continent . Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to explore beyond Argentina, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay; Peru will be added to that list in the coming months.
South America has unlimited things to offer, from beautiful beaches and mountainside villages to world-class cuisine and two of the New 7 Wonders of the World . With the help of Elisban Huarancca, an official tourism guide in Peru , Eva Castro, owner of Creo Ecolodge Jardin Project in Antioquia, Colombia, and Alexander Balardjischvili, CEO of C2Rio Tours & Travel , we’ve compiled a list of the 25 best places to visit in South America.
Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 5 Favorite Resorts in South America of 2023
Jardín, Antioquia, Colombia
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Jardín is a small town a few hours south of Medellín with colonial architecture, beautiful scenery, and lots to do. Castro of Creo Ecolodge, where I stayed during my trip to Jardín, gave plenty of recommendations for things to do while you’re in town. Take a tour of Cueva del Esplendor, or Cave of Splendor, where you'll find a beautiful waterfall, or head to a nearby coffee farm to learn how Colombian coffee is produced. My favorite is Cafe Historias , which has some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted. Castro says the best time of year to visit is August and September when there are very few travelers. This is also when the annual Jardin Film Festival takes place. It gets much busier in town from December through April, Castro says.
Cocora Valley, Salento, Colombia
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Due west of Bogota is Cocora Valley, one of Colombia's most famous hiking destinations. You can take a day trip from the nearby town of Salento or do a multi-day hike throughout the valley. There are campsites available for use if you choose to spend the night looking at the stars. It’s famous for having the tallest palm trees in the world, which stand at over 195 feet tall and can live up to 200 years. The almost oversaturated green colors of the hills are stunning. Castro highly recommends going at "golden hour" — early in the morning or late in the afternoon — for the best views.
The Lost City, Magdalena, Colombia
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The Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida in Spanish, is located near Santa Marta in northern Colombia. It’s estimated to have been founded in the 8th or 9th centuries, making it hundreds of years older than Machu Picchu. It was home to anywhere between 1,400 to 3,000 people and about 170 terraces, with apparent spaces for living, working, and religious practice. You’ll have to do a three- to six-day trek with a tour company to get there. On the way, you will see rare native plants and wildlife, which is an adventure in itself.
The Rock of Guatapé, Guatapé, Colombia
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Guatapé is a town in northern Colombia, directly east of Medellín, and it’s famous for The Rock of Guatapé, which is reached via more 740 steps. At the end of your climb, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the town and different islands in Guatapé Lake. The town is reachable via a bus ride that's less than two hours from Medellín, making it a perfect weekend trip. “The people here are more welcoming and warm,” says Castro. “When you are walking, you can find many smiling faces... It’s part of our culture.”
San Rafael, Antioqua, Colombia
San Rafael is excellent “if you really want to have the deepest connection with yourself and with nature,” says Castro. She recommends Vanadurga Ashram , a yoga sanctuary, if you want to practice yoga while you're here. “These places are really magical, and you can learn how to change your perspective," Castro adds.
San Rafael is known for its natural beauty, including mountains, waterfalls, and rivers. You can bird watch, hike, or simply soak in nature. “People want to come to have an inner journey,” says Castro. “If that’s your goal — to find out something inside of you — I’d recommend places like San Rafael.”
Cusco, Peru
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If you are interested in Inca ruins, Cusco is the perfect place. Churches, museums, and winding streets here will leave you charmed. “Travelers to Peru should know that they will face a diverse and colorful culture, with very warm and very friendly people,” says Huarancca. “Also, understand that they will face different flavors that will help them experience every second of their trip.” Cusco makes a great starting point to reach Machu Picchu. Many travelers spend a few days here exploring and acclimating to the 11,150-foot elevation. (In comparison, Denver has an elevation of 5,280 feet.)
Machu Picchu, Peru
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Arguably one of the most famous places in the world, Machu Picchu is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. The site was initially an Inca citadel, likely built in the 1450s and often called “The Lost City of the Incas.” Machu Picchu is about 50 miles from Cusco; from there, you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus to the site. You cannot visit without a tour guide, so make reservations well in advance. “The visit to Machu Picchu can be all year round; different climatic factors help to understand the mysterious nature of Machu Picchu,” says Huarancca. “But if you are looking for dates with little rain, it is well suited from April to the end of October.”
Lake Titicaca, Peru
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Lake Titicaca is the largest of South America's freshwater lakes, as well as the world's highest navigable lake. It’s an estimated three million years old, and there are man-made islands constructed of layers of tortora roots and reeds. The number of islands varies at any given time but is usually somewhere between f40 to 60. You will have some of the best views in the Andes from this place, and it is extremely important to Peruvian and Bolivian indigenous communities.
Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca, Peru
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Close to Cusco in the Andes Mountains is Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain because of the colorful stripes on display year-round. The colors result from different mineral layers that were combined with melted ice to create rows of reds, yellows, purples, and greens.
The Amazon Rainforest, Peru
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The Amazon Rainforest spans eight countries and is almost 2.6 million square miles in size. You can visit the Peruvian Amazon from three areas: Manu National Park, Tambopata Province, and the city of Iquitos. Each provides something unique to tourists. The best option depends on what you want to see, how much time you can spend, and your budget. “The only recommendation I can give to international travelers is to make reservations in advance and have good information about the places you will visit,” says Huarancca. “It is necessary to find out the type of food, drinks, and traditions that place has.”
Huacachina, Peru
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Huarancca recommends visiting Huacachina, “a small oasis in the middle of the desert.” Located south of Lima and near the city of Ica, Huacachina is a desert village complete with rolling sand dunes on all sides. You can't swim in Huacachina Lagoon, but you can rent paddle boats to glide across the water. It’s the only natural oasis in all of South America, formed by underground aquifers.
Colca Canyon, Peru
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Colca Canyon is another tourist attraction in Peru that you should not miss, according to Huarancca. It’s one of the world’s deepest canyons (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon) and you can take a day trip from Arequipa to see it or a multi-day trek for the most spectacular views. Either way you're likely to see plenty of native wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia
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Bolivia is home to the largest salt flat in the world, originally a prehistoric lake that went dry. Now Uyuni Salt Flat is around 4,200 square miles of striking white salt and rock formations. If you visit between December and April, which is the rainy season, you may see bright pink flamingos. Many people who have visited when water is on the ground describe the experience as walking on a cloud, since the sky is reflected in the water. Book a room at Kachi Lodge , which is set right on the flat, for a very special stay.
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Christ the Redeemer is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a must-see for anyone heading to Brazil. The statue of Jesus stands almost 125 feet tall and looks over Rio de Janeiro . When visiting the marvel, you can expect phenomenal views of the city. Balardjischvili recommends taking the train to see the statue and to book that ticket in advance.
Pantanal Wetland, Brazil
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Measuring more than 40 million acres, Pantanal Wetland is the biggest wetland on Earth. Jaguars and crocodiles are just two of its residents — with more than 4,700 plant and animal species, it’s one of the most biodiverse destinations on the planet. Balardjischvili recommends “bringing insect repellent, a light raincoat, and a sweatshirt — and always hydrate.”
The Imperial City of Petropolis, Brazil
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Petropolis is a mountain resort outside of Rio de Janeiro known for its palaces, architecture, and food. “Visit Petropolis on a guided tour to enjoy the historical aspect," Balardjischvili says. "Always book your tour on legalized companies with good reviews."
Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Sugarloaf Mountain is a major landmark in Brazil, well known for the panoramic city views guests get at the top. The cable car system here opened in 1912; it was the first in Brazil and the third in the world. “For Sugarloaf, visit it in the morning, as it is fresher; sunset is beautiful but extremely crowded," says Balardjischvili. "If you are traveling during the high season, buy a skip-the-line ticket." The mountain peak sits almost 1,300 feet in the air, so you’ll be grateful you don’t have to climb all the way up.
When asked about the best time of year to visit Rio de Janeiro, Balardjischvili says May or June, when "you’ll enjoy beautiful sunny days with no rain and 77 degrees.”
Buenos Aires, Argentina
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One of my favorite cities in the world is Buenos Aires , where you can find anything from tango shows and street art to the best steak you’ll ever eat. Each neighborhood has something special. Head to La Boca for beautiful murals along the streets, then tour the famous cemetery in Recoleta before stopping at a speakeasy in Palermo. There’s no shortage of fantastic things to do here, and the city makes a wonderful home base for seeing more of Argentina.
Zuccardi Winery, Uco Valley, Argentina
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Zuccardi Valle de Uco is an award-winning winery that I had the opportunity to visit this past January. It certainly lives up to its reputation, with fantastic wines and the Andes as a stunning backdrop to the property's extensive vineyards. Reservations for tastings and tours can be made online.
Iguazú Falls, Puerto Iguazú, Argentina
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Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls is comprised of about 275 individual waterfalls, making it the largest waterfall system in the world. Most of the waterfalls are on the Argentina side, but the tallest is on the Brazil side. It’s a stunning sight to behold and an absolute must for anyone traveling through South America.
Patagonia, Argentina
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Patagonia is larger than many countries around the world and is split between Argentina and Chile. You can expect each city in the region to feel unique; some of the most popular ones in Argentinian Patagonia are El Calafate, Ushuaia, and El Chaltén. Whether you go to Patagonia Brewery in San Carlos de Bariloche or hike one of the 300 glaciers throughout the region, you will surely have an experience you’ll never forget.
Punta del Este Beaches, Uruguay
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Uruguay is still relatively underrated, but it is a fantastic place for international travelers. It takes just a couple of hours by ferry to get from Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay. From there, it’s about a two-hour drive to Punta del Este, which has some of the best beaches in the country, plus high-end shopping and fantastic steakhouses.
Valparaíso, Chile
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Valparaíso is located on the coast of Chile and is less than a two-hour drive from Santiago. It’s famous for its colorful homes and for being the home of renowned poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda. It’s also connected to Viña del Mar, where you'll find some of Chile's top beaches. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with excellent architecture and many things to discover.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
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The Galápagos Islands are perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can learn about the archipelago's unique biodiversity, go scuba diving, lounge on beaches, or embark on a multi-island cruise. You might also swim with sea lions or hang out with giant turtles.
Easter Island, Chile
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Easter Island is a Chilean territory in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean. It’s known for the nearly 900 stone statues of human figures, called moai , that you'll find here. The statues are believed to have been created over time, from the 11th century to some time in the 17th century. From Santiago, it’s about a 5.5-hour flight to reach the island.
20 Must-Visit Attractions in Brazil
As the largest country in South America , Brazil is a vast playground for the intrepid traveller with everything from dense, exotic rainforest to bustling, dynamic cities, as well as sprawling national parks and glorious, jaw-dropping beaches. If you’re feeling spoilt for choice, here are the 20 attractions that are must-sees in Brazil.
Foz do iguaçu.
Foz do Iguaçu are one of the largest waterfalls in the world. This impressive natural phenomenon straddles the border of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay and is made up of hundreds of powerful cascades that tumble down into the fast-moving body of water below. A highlight is the Devil’s Throat, an 80-metre fall where visitors can look over the edge of a wooden platform that crosses the top.
Christ the Redeemer
Fernando de noronha.
Made up of a collection of 21 islands, Fernando de Noronha is a slice of paradise in Brazil. As a protected national marine park, the area is home to a diverse and rich ecosystem that includes dolphins, reef sharks, tropical fish, and rays. Famed for its undeveloped beaches and rugged, green coastline, it is a picturesque retreat and ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.
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Sugarloaf Mountain
One of Brazil’s most visited natural wonder is Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, a rounded peak surrounded by the sea. Visitors take a cable car to the top to enjoy panoramic views over the city, the coastline and across the ocean – the most rewarding time to go is at sunset when the lights of the city twinkle below, while the sun casts shades of pink, orange, and red across the sky and sea.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Located in the north of the country, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a striking desert landscape made up of sloping white sand dunes that stretch tall and wide, and dotted with rainwater lagoons that nestle between the valleys of the sand banks. The largest lagoons there are Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita.
A huge wetland that swallows up the west of Brazil before sprawling into Bolivia and Paraguay, the Pantanal is a wildlife haven rich in a diverse ecosystem of rare and wonderful creatures. Nature lovers can spot hundreds of species of birds, in addition to large mammals such as jaguars and capybaras. Some of the most famous residents there are the thousands of caimans.
Amazon rainforest
One of the most ecologically complex regions in the world, the Amazon rainforest is an extraordinary natural wonders. The dense forest provides fertile grounds for thousands of endemic species, while the Amazon river provides a home for incredible freshwater life, including the elusive pink river dolphins.
Chapada dos Veadeiros
Stretching across the central of Brazil is Chapada dos Veadeiros, an immense national park comprising deep canyons, hardy vegetation, and imposing quartz crystal formations. It is a fertile ground for several orchid species that grow wild throughout the park, and local residents include jaguars and armadillos.
Pelourinho, Salvador
Pelourinho is the historic city centre of Salvador in the state of Bahia. The vibrantly coloured buildings are a picturesque example of how the African, indigenous and European cultures, which were thrown together in Salvador, have converged throughout the centuries.
Located in the exotic northeast of Brazil, Fortaleza is a coastal city with strong winds that have attracted adrenaline-junkie kitesurfers for years. Watch the surfers race across the sea’s surface, their trajectory temporarily broken by impressive, daredevil leaps. The city is famed for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood with beachside restaurants in abundance serving Fortaleza’s delicious cuisine.
Jalapão State Park
Jalapão State Park is in the lesser-known state of Tocantins, yet the park has long been on the radar of curious travellers who love adventure. Known for its deep-orange dunes, raging rivers, and cascading waterfalls, it is a prime example of untouched wilderness that will keep any intrepid visitor satisfied.
Dunas de Genipabu
Just a short drive from Natal in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, the Genipabu dunes are an ever-changing collection of sand dunes that are shaped and reshaped by the daily winds that come off the coastline and whip over the sands. The region offers a host of adventurous activities such as buggy rides, camel treks and sledging down the sand dunes.
The charming colonial city of Olinda sits in the north of the country, in the state of Pernambuco. Located on a hilltop, it is a cultural wonderland of churches, museums, and buildings that have kept their colonial façade. The best time to go is during carnival when the city comes alive with vibrant, colourful street celebrations that reflect its strong African roots.
Porta de Galinhas
With its crystal clear waters and white, pristine beaches, Porta de Galinhas has deservedly earned the title as one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. When the tide comes in, the shoreline fills up with warm pools, locked between walls of coral and filled with a thriving ecosystem of marine life. It is possible to see marine turtles here, as well as seahorses for the observant snorkeller.
Mount Roraima
A rock formation that seems straight out of The Lost World, Mount Roraima is an imposing flat-top mountain that extends across the borders of Brazil, Venezuela, and the less-explored Guyana. To reach the top takes between seven and 10 days, but those that try will be treated to unforgettable views and waterfalls on the way.
Inhotim is located outside of Belo Horizonte in Minas Gerais, and has inspired art lovers across the world. The open-air art gallery is located on the grounds of a 5,000-acre botanical gardens and houses sculptures, art pavilions and interactive masterpieces from both Brazilian and international artists.
A region teeming with natural resources and wildlife, Bonita in the southwest of the country is recognised for its ecological importance and has become a well-protected haven. With freshwater pools and waterfalls alive with thriving shoals of tropical fish, it is a must-visit for any keen nature explorer. One of the highlights is Gruta do Lago Azul, an underground flooded cavity that stretched more than 200 feet deep and home to the fossiled remains of prehistoric animals, such as sabre-tooth tigers. The source of the mysterious, underground river that has yet to be discovered.
Chapada Diamantina
This large national park is teeming with an extraordinary range of biodiversity from rare orchids to large animals such as giant anteaters and armadillos. The large flat top rock formations with long, sloping plains beneath them create breathtaking views and scenery.
Cathedral de Brasilia
This cathedral with its circular-inspired ceiling is the masterpiece of Brazilian architect, Oscar Niemeyer. The all-around stained glass walls slant up to a single point in the ceiling and allow natural light to flood in, creating an airy atmosphere. The cathedral has a capacity of 4,000 people, watched over by angels that hang suspended from the ceiling.
Bento Goncalves
The landscape of Bento Goncalves comprises sloping hills, rows of grapevines and quaint rivers, ringing a persistent bell that sounds of the Italian countryside scenery. That’s unsurprising, given the area is largely influenced by Italian immigration in the 1800s. The area is replete with wine regions, locally-produced foods such as cheese and jams, and the streets are lined with charming boutique restaurants and places to eat.
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Must-see attractions in Brazil
Parque Nacional da Tijuca
Rio de Janeiro
The Tijuca is all that's left of the Atlantic rainforest that once surrounded Rio de Janeiro. This 39-sq-km tropical-jungle preserve is an exuberant green…
Pão de Açúcar
Seen from the peak of Pão de Açúcar, Rio is undoubtedly a Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City). There are many good times to make the ascent, but sunset on…
Copacabana Beach
A magnificent confluence of land and sea, the long, scalloped beach of Copacabana extends for some 4km, with a flurry of activity along its length: over…
Parque Nacional do Iguaçu
Brazil's second-oldest national park, created in 1939, protects one of South America's most magical and majestic sights, Iguaçu Falls, part of the largest…
Ipanema Beach
Ipanema & Leblon
One long stretch of sun-drenched sand, Ipanema Beach is demarcated by postos (posts), which mark off subcultures as diverse as the city itself. Posto 9,…
Reserva Extrativista Baixo Rio Branco-Jauaperi
This newly minted extractive reserve is an outstanding place to immerse yourself in the best the Amazon has to offer, with excellent wildlife-watching –…
Cristo Redentor
Flamengo & Around
Standing atop Corcovado (which means ‘hunchback’), Cristo Redentor gazes out over Rio, a placid expression on his well-crafted face. The mountain rises…
Parque Nacional da Chapada Diamantina
Spanning over 1520 sq km and containing within it innumerable species of plants and animals, deafening waterfalls and vast, rugged plains, Parque Nacional…
Cataratas do Iguaçu
Once you're in the park and ready to visit the falls, take the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu bus to the third stop at Belmond Hotel das Cataratas. Here you…
Parque Nacional Marinho de Fernando de Noronha
Fernando de Noronha
Covering around 70% of the main island and all the surrounding sea, Parque Nacional Marinho de Fernando de Noronha contains most of the archipelago's must…
Instituto de Arte Contemporânea Inhotim
Belo Horizonte
The world's largest open-air contemporary art museum, and greater Belo Horizonte's standout attraction, this sprawling, world-class complex of gardens…
Edifício Copan
Copan was designed by late modernist master Oscar Niemeyer. The building, with its serpentine facade and narrow brises soleil (permanent sunshades), is…
Mercado Municipal
This covered market is a belle epoque confection of stained glass and a series of vast domes. Inside, a fabulous urban market specializes in all things…
Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses
Maranhão's premier attraction, this 1550-sq-km national park encompasses expanses of white sand dunes that run along the coastline for more than 70km and…
Praia do Campeche
Santa Catarina
The 3.5km Praia do Campeche is one of Floripa's five-star beaches, an absolute stunner of sun-kissed perfection with wind conditions lending themselves to…
Baía do Sancho
The most stunning stretch of sand on an island of magnificent beaches, Baía do Sancho is a protected cove of brilliant turquoise waters backed by forest…
Parque Nacional Serra dos Órgaos – Teresópolis Entrance
Rio de Janeiro State
About 6km south of Teresópolis, off the BR-116 Rio–Teresópolis highway, you'll find the main (and most accessible) entrance to magnificent Parque Nacional…
Maracanã Football Stadium
Rio’s Maracanã stadium is hallowed ground among football lovers. The massive arena has been the site of legendary victories and crushing defeats. Maracanã…
Jardim Botânico
Gávea, Jardim Botânico & Lagoa
This exotic 137-hectare garden, with more than 8000 plant species, was designed by order of the Prince Regent Dom João (later to become Dom João VI) in…
Floresta Nacional do Tapajós
If you came to the Amazon to see primary rainforest, look no further than the Floresta Nacional do Tapajós. Wildlife is a possibility – from birds to…
Instituto Moreira Salles
This beautiful cultural center hosts impressive exhibitions, often showcasing the works of some of Brazil's best photographers and artists. The gardens,…
Jardim Botânico Adolpho Ducke
Spanning over 100 sq km, this 'garden' is actually the world’s largest urban forest. There's a network of five short trails (guides and closed shoes…
Serra do Aracá State Park
Although this state park was established in 1990 to preserve the unique canyons carved out by the Rio Aracá, it wasn't until recently that the massive…
The floodplains east and southeast of Santarém are among the Amazon's most rewarding excursions. Flooded for much of the year, the plains are home to…
Parque Nacional da Serra da Capivara
One of Brazil's most important national parks, this 1300-sq-km reserve contains more than 40,000 rock paintings among spectacular panoramas of immense…
Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra
Rio Grande do Sul
Located 18km southeast of Cambará do Sul, this magnificent park occupies 102.5 sq km on the border between Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina. It's here…
Parque Nacional do Itatiaia
Brazil’s oldest national park, Itatiaia shelters a stunning variety of landscapes, from dense rainforests to spare and rugged upland peaks. Most visitors…
Museu de Arte do Rio
Looming large over Praça Mauá, the MAR is an icon for the rebirth of Rio's once derelict port. The huge museum hosts wide-ranging exhibitions that focus…
Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas
One of the city’s most picturesque spots, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is encircled by a 7.2km walking and cycling path. Bikes are available for hire from…
Itaipu Binacional
Foz do Iguaçu
With a capacity of 14 million kilowatts, this binational dam is the world's second-largest hydroelectric power station, and the one that produces the most…
Teatro Amazonas
This gorgeous theater was built at the height of the rubber boom, using European designers, decorators and even raw materials. The original driveway was…
Mercado Ver-o-Peso
The name of this waterfront market, with its iconic four-turreted structure at its southwestern end, comes from colonial times, when the Portuguese would…
Praça dos Trés Poderes
This square is a focal point of the city design, a synthesis of the ideas of architects Niemeyer and Costa, combining various monuments, museums and…
Encontro das Águas
Just beyond Manaus, the warm dark Rio Negro pours into the cool creamy Rio Solimões, but because of differences in temperature, speed and density, their…
Parque Nacional Serra dos Órgãos
Created in 1939, this high country park straddling the Serra dos Órgãos (Organ Pipe Range) just north of Rio is best known for its spectacular mountain…
Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Veadeiros
This spectacular national park in the highest area of the Central West showcases the unique landscape and flora of high-altitude cerrado across 650 sq km…
Escadaria Selarón
Santa Teresa & Lapa
One of Rio's best-loved attractions, the steps leading up from Joaquim Silva became a work of art when Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón decided to cover…
Oficina Cerâmica Francisco Brennand
Francisco Brennand, born in 1927 into an Irish immigrant family and now considered Brazil’s greatest ceramicist, revitalized his family’s abandoned tile…
Parque Estadual do Alto do Ribeira
São Paulo State
This 357-sq-km state park, with its 450 cataloged caves, is known as Brazil’s Capital das Grutas (Cave Capital). The park's Núcleos de Visitação (Visitor…
Museu de Arte de São Paulo
Sampa’s pride, this museum possesses Latin America’s most comprehensive collection of Western art. Hovering above a concrete plaza that turns into an…
More destinations you need to see
- Amazon River
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- Mekong River
- Irrawaddy River
- India Cruises
- Machu Picchu
- Iguazu Falls
- Brazil Travel Guide
14 Best Places To Visit In Brazil
Brazil is the largest country in South America, dominating the central and eastern portions of the continent. From the massive and legendary Amazon Rainforest in the north to the jaw-dropping tropical beaches along the Atlantic coast to the Pantanal wetlands, there are plenty of marvelous Brazilian vacation destinations , where you’ll see some of the most beautiful nature in the world. Here is an insight into some of the most amazing places to visit in Brazil.
Iguazu viewpoint
Foz do Iguacu (Iguazu Falls)
The Iguazu Falls are the largest system of waterfalls in the world , stretching almost 9,000 feet in width. This impressive natural phenomenon straddles the Argentine-Brazilian border and is made up of hundreds of powerful cascades that tumble down into the fast-moving body of water below. Every second, incalculable gallons of water from the Iguazu River course over the Parana Plateau. While 80 percent of the falls are in Argentina, it is the Brazilian side that offers the most spectacular views, with Devil’s Throat canyon being the highlight. Take a bus to the trailhead, where you can then walk a short trail to come face to face with a full panoramic view of the giant waterfalls. Then go the full Brazilian on a walking tour along the catwalks. Hear the falls resonating through the rainforest and revel in the full spectacle. Walk to the balcony of the ominously named Devil’s Throat; shaped like a horseshoe, and including 14 waterfalls, this is the largest, most impressive, and dramatic water curtain in the whole system.
Angra dos Reis
The 365 islands that make up Angra dos Reis are located in the southwest region of Rio de Janeiro. The biggest of these islands, Ilha Grande, has an illustrious history and some beautiful natural features, including the sweeping views from Pico do Papagaio, and the Castelhanos Lighthouse, which is one of the oldest in Brazil. If you’re into snorkeling and diving, you can explore the clear waters and coral reefs of Lagoa Azul, and see a multitude of marine creatures. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike through the jungle to the Cachoeira da Feiticeira, a 50-foot-tall waterfall with a natural pool at the bottom, where you can rappel down the steep cliff’s edge and swim in the pool beneath the cascade.
Clear Bonito waters
Bonito is the ecotourism capital of Brazil , and its stunning nature can be fully explored within the Serra da Bodoquena National Park. There are caves with lakes and amazing stalactite formations, lush forests, mountains, and grasslands, home to wildlife such as capybaras, and ocelots. You’ll also find beautiful waterfalls and incredibly clear rivers and pools alive with thriving shoals of tropical freshwater fish, while the skies above are graced by colorful parrots and macaws. You can go diving or rapelling in the Abismo Anhumas, a massive cave with dangling, rocky stalactites descending from its roof down towards an underground lake.
The turquoise waters
Fernando de Noronha
About 200 miles off the coast of Brazil’s mainland, Fernando de Noronha is a slice of paradise ; a small volcanic collection of 21 islands characterized by jagged, rocky coasts and lovely natural beaches. Because of its distance from the mainland, Fernando de Noronha is very secluded and great efforts are made to preserve the natural wilderness of this beautiful place. The area is home to a diverse and rich ecosystem that includes dolphins, reef sharks, tropical fish, and rays, and is ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Endless dunes make amazing photos
Lencois Maranhenses National Park
On the northern coast of the Atlantic is Lençóis Maranhenses National Park , an immense area of desert-like land, which is known for its sloping white sand dunes that stretch tall and wide, and shallow rainwater lagoons that nestle between the valleys of the sandbanks. They form seasonally during the rainier seasons, due to a thick, hard, dense layer of rock not far beneath the sand. The lagoons are at their largest during the summer months, and after July, when they connect to rivers like the Negro River, there are even fish that live in the shallow pools.
Teatro Amazonas
The capital of the Amazonas state in northwestern Brazil, Manaus serves as a gateway to the Amazon rainforest and embarkation point for most Brazilian Amazon cruises . The port is located on the dark waters of the Negro River, just east of where it meets the muddy waters of the Solimões River to form the mighty Amazon. This meeting point is known as the “Meeting of the Waters,” which is a natural phenomenon where the two rivers run side by side for nearly four miles without mixing.
Tribes of the Amazon
Amazon Rainforest
One of the most ecologically complex regions in the world, the Amazon rainforest, one of the best places to visit in Brazil , is an extraordinary natural wonder. The dense forest provides fertile grounds for thousands of endemic species, while the Amazon River is home to an incredible freshwater life, including the elusive pink river dolphins.
Caimans of Pantanal
Covering an extensive swathe of western Brazil, before sprawling into Bolivia and Paraguay, the Pantanal is a huge tropical wetland and wildlife haven rich in a diverse ecosystem of rare and wonderful creatures and an astounding array of flora. Here you can spot hundreds of species of birds, in addition to large mammals such as jaguars and capybaras. Some of the most famous residents are the thousands of caimans. During the rainy season, around 80 percent of the floodplains are submerged, so the only way to get around is by plane or boat.
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
Stretching across the center of Brazil, Chapada dos Veadeiros is a vast national park that lies atop an ancient rainforest-coated plateau. Scarred by jagged cliffs and deep crumbling canyons, hardy vegetation, sparkling lakes, and imposing quartz crystal formations, some of which are over a billion years old, the park is fascinating to hike around. Lots of dramatic waterfalls are hidden away among verdant flora and fauna, which includes several orchid species, macaws, jaguars, and armadillos. Other highlights include Moon Valley, which is a lunar landscape. Swimming and bathing in any one of the numerous waterfalls and rivers that dot the area is a must-do.
Jalapão State Park
Jalapão State Park in the state of Tocantins, is an untouched wilderness known for its deep-orange dunes, raging rivers, and cascading waterfalls. The natural landscapes of ‘Cerrado’, the Brazilian savannah, features rivers, rock formations, and numerous species of fauna, such as jaguars, maned wolves, and macaws.
Dunas de Genipabu
Just a short drive from Natal in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, the Genipabu dunes are an ever-changing collection of sand dunes, which are shaped and reshaped by the daily winds that come off the coastline and whip over the sands. You can slide down the sand dunes all day long, or you can raise your excitement level by taking a wild ride on a dune buggy. where experienced buggy drivers (bugueiros) will take you on a thrilling roller coaster ride around the wavy dunes.
Porta de Galinhas
With its crystal-clear waters and white, pristine beaches, Porta de Galinhas has deservedly earned the title of one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. When the tide comes in, the shoreline fills up with warm pools, locked between walls of coral and filled with a thriving ecosystem of marine life. If you’re into snorkeling, it’s possible to see marine turtles here, as well as seahorses.
Mount Roraima
Mount Roraima is an imposing tabletop mountain surrounded by sheer cliffs to create an island floating in the sky above the plains of the Gran Sabanais. It is one of the most mysterious and alluring mountains on Earth, and is said to be the inspiration for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Novel, ‘The Lost World’. Mt Roraima extends across the borders of Brazil, Venezuela, and the less-explored Guyana.
Rocky plains and canyons
Chapada Diamantina National Park
Chapada Diamantina National Park lies in the northeast of Brazil in the center of the state of Bahia. The Park teems with an extraordinary range of biodiversity from rare orchids to large animals such as giant anteaters and armadillos. Crumbling, rugged cliffs line the plateau, as do cavernous caves and lots of epic waterfalls; the awe-inspiring 1250-ft-high Cachoeira da Fumaça is the second highest waterfall in Brazil. The spectacular mountain ranges and sweeping valleys, fast-flowing rivers, and large flat top rock formations with long, sloping plains beneath them, create breathtaking views and scenery.
While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.
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21 Best Places to Visit in South America
South America is a continent of superlatives: the highest, the driest, the largest, the deepest, the rarest … Well, you get the picture. Superlatives galore can be found from Caracas to Tierra del Fuego, helping ensure every traveler finds something to interest them.
Environmentalists will enjoy the well-conserved Pantanal in Brazil, while shoppers can choose between upscale boutiques in big cities like Rio de Janeiro or the colorful markets of Andean villages. You can explore lost cities of ancient civilizations, feast your eyes on stunning scenery almost everywhere you go or you can feast your taste buds on the cuisine.
It’s your choice, and South America gives you lots of them. An overview of the best places to visit in South America :
Map of South America
21. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is a major city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. It was founded by the Spanish in 1533, who named it after Cartagena, Spain. During Spain’s domination in South America, the city was the center of politics and the economy.
Cartagena is a quite modern city today, but you’ll find walled historic center and the fortress, deemed the largest fortifications in South America, that defended it. Cartagena has a rich cultural scene, with festivals throughout the year; museums and art galleries.
See also: Where to Stay in Cartagena
20. Salvador, Brazil
Salvador da Bahia, also known as just Salvador, has several things going for it. The Portuguese founded it in 1548, so it’s one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas. You’ll see its rich past in Pelourinho, the historic center named for the whipping post where slaves were beaten.
Brazil’s third largest city was also the first slave port in the Americas; traces of this African heritage can be found in the local culture today, especially the cuisine. Salvador also is a party town, hosting the world’s largest party: its annual Carnival celebration.
19. Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
They don’t do things in a small way in Los Glaciares National Park. Not only is the park the largest national park in Argentina, it is home to the largest ice cap outside of Greenland and Antarctica – an ice cap that feeds 47 large glaciers. The most famous of these is the Perito Moreno glacier; unique among glaciers because it is advancing while others are receding.
The park also is home to Lake Argentino, the largest in the country. The park also is known for its ecology and biodiversity with the well-conserved Magellan Subpolar forest and Patagonian Steppe.
18. Pantanal, Brazil
The Pantanal can be difficult to get to – access is mostly by plane or boat – but once you get there…Oh! The Pantanal, located mostly in Brazil (some is in Bolivia and Paraguay), is the world’s largest tropical wetland, encompassing an area the size of Washington State.
While not as famous as its sister wetlands in the Amazon, the Pantanal is the best place in South America to see wildlife, ranging from jaguars to capybaras.
17. Ushuaia, Argentina
If you like to visit remote places, then put Ushuaia on your bucket list. The capital of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia is considered the southernmost city in the world. Indeed, the train to the End of the World ends here.
Nestled among the mountains along a bay, Ushuaia is very picturesque when it’s not cloudy or windy, which is much of the time. The former penal colony has a museum and it’s a good place to see penguins, orca whales and seals.
16. Tayrona National Park, Colombia
When protecting the environment and its inhabitants while enjoying stunning views is on your top list, you’re sure to enjoy Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
The country’s second most visited national park, Tayrona is a protected marine reserve that takes in both land and sea. You’ll find great biodiversity in the flora and fauna here. Wildlife includes 300 species of birds, more than 100 different mammals and 70 kinds of bats.
Tayrona is probably best known for its spectacular beaches, which are set in deep bays, backed by mountains and shaded by coconut palms. Because of strong current however most beaches are not suitable for swimming.
15. Quito, Ecuador
Ecuador’s capital, Quito, is unique among world capitals. It is the highest capital in the world (La Paz is higher but isn’t Bolivia’s legal capital) and also closest to the equator. Founded by the Spanish in 1534, Quito’s colorful old town is one of the best-preserved, least changed and largest in all the Americas.
Located in Ecuador’s northern highlands, the city is surrounded by volcanoes that can be seen on a clear day. Quito is the only world capital that is threatened by active volcanoes.
14. Colca Canyon, Peru
There’s a reason Colca Canyon is the third most visited tourist destination in Peru: stunning views. The canyon is one of the deepest in the world, but not the deepest in Peru, though it is more than twice as deep as the U.S. Grand Canyon.
If you get tired of scenic views, you can feast your eyes on the sky where you may see Andean condors and the biggest hummingbirds you’ve ever seen. Villages are a good place to buy local handcrafts.
13. Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is unique: It’s the driest non-polar desert in the world, maybe only raining once every four years. It stretches about 1,600 km (1,000 miles) along the coast of Chile, situated between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean.
The soil is comparable to that found on Mars; portions stood in for Mars in the movie, Space Odyssey: Voyage to the Planets. Vast salt flats, active geysers and intense blue lagoons are just a few of the extraordinary features of this region.
12. Angel Falls, Venezuela
Angel Falls is most definitely a scene stealer in Venezuela’s Guayana Highlands. It is the highest uninterrupted waterfall in the world – 15 times higher than Niagara Falls, which is shared by Canada and the United States. Water cascades more than 950 meters (3,200 feet) down Auyantepu Mountain into the Rio Kerepacupai Meru.
The waterfall is named for American Jimmy Angel who, in 1937, became the first pilot to fly over the falls. Getting there is an adventure involving plane and river boat rides.
11. Cusco, Peru
Cusco has a colorful historic past Located at 3,400 meters (11,000 feet) in elevation in the Andes Mountains, Cusco was once the capital of the mighty Inca Empire. Then, in the 16th century, it was conquered by the Spanish, who pretty much decimated the Incas.
Though not the national capital, Peru’s constitution names it the historical capital of the country. Remains of many Inca sites can be found in the surrounding area while the Spanish colonial heritage can be found in the Old Town.
10. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Situated in the Andes nearly 3,700 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat. Located in southwest Peru, the salt flat is covered by a thick crust, which provides salt and covers a brine.
The salt flat is as flat as you can get and with the harsh terrain looks otherwordly, especially after rain when the Salar turns into a giant mirror. One of the most unusual places to visit in South America, it’s also a major breeding ground for flamingos.
9. Lake Titicaca, Peru & Bolivia
Lake Titicaca, South America’s largest lake, straddles the border of Bolivia and Peru. At an elevation of just over 3,800 meters (12,500 feet), it is considered the highest navigable lake in the world, though there are smaller lakes higher than this one.
Many of its 41 islands are inhabited, including the floating islands the natives make with heavy reeds. About 500 species of aquatic life live in the lake, which has a large population of water birds. Local belief says the sun was born at Lake Titicaca.
8. Easter Island, Chile
Getting to Easter Island can be time-consuming, since it is the most remote inhabited island in the world. The nearest inhabitants are almost 1,300 miles away. But it’s not its remoteness this Chilean territory is noted for. It’s what you’ll see when you get there: almost 900 primitive statues carved by early Polynesian inhabitants.
These awesome statues, called moai, may have been carved about 1,000 years ago. Most statues were carved from solidified volcanic ash, with obsidian being used for the black eyes.
7. Amazon Rainforest
If you lived long enough to count that high, you could count 390 billion trees in the Amazon rainforest. This statistic is mind-boggling, to be sure, but then the Amazon rainforest is one awesome piece of real estate, covering about ¾ of the Amazon River basin.
It is the world’s largest tropical rainforest. Sixty percent of the rainforest is located in Brazil with sizeable chunks in Peru and Columbia; bordering countries have small shares. For sure, the rainforest is loaded with unique flora and fauna.
6. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
It may be located in remote Chilean Patagonia, but Torres del Paine National Park is one of Chile’s largest and most visited parks. Why? Well, the scenery is pretty spectacular.
The Torres del Paine (Paine means blue in the local indigenous language) is just one awesome sight you’ll see. The three peaks dominate the landscape in the Paine Mountains. Besides mountains, the park is dotted with glaciers, rivers, forests and steppe, making it a hit with outdoors enthusiasts. The park also is home to an endangered species of deer.
5. Buenos Aires, Argentina
With 17 million people, Buenos Aires has the fourth largest population in the Americas. Located on the Rio de la Plata on the Argentinian coast, the city is noted for its cosmopolitan flair.
Because of its architecture and rich cultural life, Buenos Aires is the most visited city in South America. A must-see here is the Recoleta, a residential neighborhood known for its history. The Recoleta Cemetery is the district’s most famous attraction; it’s where Eva Peron is buried.
See also: Where to Stay in Buenos Aires
4. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
If you want to get a glimpse of what prehistoric animals may have looked like, head to the Galapagos Islands. The animals are like no other place on earth, and include giant tortoises and scary-looking iguanas.
They were the impetus for Charles Darwin’s controversial 19th century book, On the Origin of Species. This archipelago of 18 major islands, about 900 km (550 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, was formed – and are still being formed – by volcanic action.
3. Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina
One of the best places to visit in South America, Iguazu Falls have to be seen to be appreciated as mere words cannot do them justice. They truly live up to their name, which translates as “big water:” They’re the world’s largest waterfalls system, with 275 waterfalls of various sizes – Devil’s Throat is the biggest.
For much of its journey to the ocean, the Iguazu River flows through Brazil, but, seemingly in a spirit of international cooperation, most of the falls are in Argentina.
2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When you visit Rio de Janeiro you simply must take a samba lesson; even The Girl from Ipanema does the samba, Rio’s most popular dance. Besides the samba, this cosmopolitan city is known for its Carnival, the bossa nova, and Copacabana Beach.
Its most famous landmark may be the Christ the Redeemer statue that sits atop Corcovado Mountain. Rio hosted the 2016 Summer Olympics, though its residents overwhelmingly prefer soccer: Maracana Stadium is one of the largest soccer stadiums in the world.
See also: Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
1. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is a magnificent representation of the Inca civilization before the Spanish came. Nestled in the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu served as a palace for the emperor, a fortress and as a site for religious ceremonies where human sacrifices were made to appease the gods.
Untouched by the Spanish, the site was abandoned after the conquest, only to be “discovered” by an American professor in the early 1900s. Built from polished stones, Machu Picchu is a fascinating example of classical Inca architecture. With its spectacular views, Machu Picchu is Peru’s most visited tourist attraction.
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May 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm
kaiteur falls Guyana? i dont see how that was left out…
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25 Best Places To Visit In South America, From The Wetlands Of Brazil To Easter Island
From the wetlands of brazil to the beaches of uruguay, here are the best places to visit in south america according to experts..
By: Harrison Pierce Published: Oct 10, 2023 04:00 PM IST
As a digital nomad who works and travels full-time, I spend a good portion of the year in South America. The first city I visited was Buenos Aires, and it immediately stole my heart — it is arguably one of the best cities on the continent. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to explore beyond Argentina, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay; Peru will be added to that list in the coming months.
South America has unlimited things to offer, from beautiful beaches and mountainside villages to world-class cuisine and two of the New 7 Wonders of the World. With the help of Elisban Huarancca, an official tourism guide in Peru , Eva Castro, owner of Creo Ecolodge Jardin Project in Antioquia, Colombia, and Alexander Balardjischvili, CEO of C2Rio Tours & Travel , we’ve compiled a list of the 25 best places to visit in South America.
The best places to visit in South America
Jardín, antioquia, colombia.
Jardín is a small town a few hours south of Medellín with colonial architecture, beautiful scenery, and lots to do. Castro of Creo Ecolodge, where I stayed during my trip to Jardín, gave plenty of recommendations for things to do while you’re in town. Take a tour of Cueva del Esplendor, or Cave of Splendor, where you’ll find a beautiful waterfall, or head to a nearby coffee farm to learn how Colombian coffee is produced. My favourite is Cafe Historias , which has some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted.
Castro says the best time of year to visit is August and September when there are very few travellers. This is also when the annual Jardin Film Festival takes place. It gets much busier in town from December through April, Castro says.
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Cocora valley, salento, colombia.
Due west of Bogota is Cocora Valley, one of Colombia’s most famous hiking destinations. You can take a day trip from the nearby town of Salento or do a multi-day hike throughout the valley. There are campsites available for use if you choose to spend the night looking at the stars. It’s famous for having the tallest palm trees in the world, which stand at over 195 feet tall and can live up to 200 years. The almost oversaturated green colours of the hills are stunning. Castro highly recommends going at “golden hour” — early in the morning or late in the afternoon — for the best views.
The Lost City, Magdalena, Colombia
The Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida in Spanish, is located near Santa Marta in northern Colombia. It’s estimated to have been founded in the 8th or 9th centuries, making it hundreds of years older than Machu Picchu. It was home to anywhere between 1,400 to 3,000 people and about 170 terraces, with apparent spaces for living, working, and religious practice. You’ll have to do a three- to six-day trek with a tour company to get there. On the way, you will see rare native plants and wildlife, which is an adventure in itself.
The Rock of Guatapé, Guatapé, Colombia
Guatapé is a town in northern Colombia, directly east of Medellín, and it’s famous for The Rock of Guatapé, which is reached via more than 740 steps. At the end of your climb, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the town and different islands in Guatapé Lake. The town is reachable via a bus ride that’s less than two hours from Medellín, making it a perfect weekend trip.
“The people here are more welcoming and warm,” says Castro. “When you are walking, you can find many smiling faces… It’s part of our culture.”
Book your stay at Tau House via Booking.com
Book your stay at Tau House via Agoda.com
San Rafael, Antioqua, Colombia
San Rafael is excellent “if you really want to have the deepest connection with yourself and with nature,” says Castro. She recommends Vanadurga Ashram , a yoga sanctuary if you want to practice yoga while you’re here. “These places are really magical, and you can learn how to change your perspective,” Castro adds.
San Rafael is known for its natural beauty, including mountains, waterfalls, and rivers. You can bird watch, hike, or simply soak in nature. “People want to come to have an inner journey,” says Castro. “If that’s your goal — to find out something inside of you — I’d recommend places like San Rafael.”
Cusco, Peru
If you are interested in Inca ruins, Cusco is the perfect place. Churches, museums, and winding streets here will leave you charmed. “Travelers to Peru should know that they will face a diverse and colourful culture, with very warm and very friendly people,” says Huarancca. “Also, understand that they will face different flavours that will help them experience every second of their trip.”
Cusco makes a great starting point to reach Machu Picchu. Many travellers spend a few days here exploring and acclimating to the 11,150-foot elevation. (In comparison, Denver has an elevation of 5,280 feet.)
Book your stay at JW Marriott El Convento Cusco via Booking.com
Book your stay at JW Marriott El Convento Cusco via Agoda.com
Machu Picchu, Peru
Arguably one of the best places to visit in South America, Machu Picchu is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. The site was initially an Inca citadel, likely built in the 1450s and often called “The Lost City of the Incas.” Machu Picchu is about 50 miles (80.46 km) from Cusco; from there, you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus to the site. You cannot visit without a tour guide, so make reservations well in advance.
“The visit to Machu Picchu can be all year round; different climatic factors help to understand the mysterious nature of Machu Picchu,” says Huarancca. “But if you are looking for dates with little rain, it is well suited from April to the end of October.”
Lake Titicaca, Peru
Lake Titicaca is the largest of South America’s freshwater lakes, as well as the world’s highest navigable lake. It’s an estimated three million years old, and there are man-made islands constructed of layers of tortora roots and reeds. The number of islands varies at any given time but is usually somewhere between 40 to 60. You will have some of the best views in the Andes from this place, and it is extremely important to Peruvian and Bolivian indigenous communities.
Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca, Peru
Close to Cusco in the Andes Mountains is Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain because of the colourful stripes on display year-round. The colours result from different mineral layers that were combined with melted ice to create rows of reds, yellows, purples, and greens.
The Amazon Rainforest, Peru
One of the best places to visit in South America, the Amazon Rainforest spans eight countries and is almost 2.6 million square miles (67,33,969.08 square kilometres) in size. You can visit the Peruvian Amazon from three areas: Manu National Park, Tambopata Province, and the city of Iquitos. Each provides something unique to tourists. The best option depends on what you want to see, how much time you can spend, and your budget.
“The only recommendation I can give to international travellers is to make reservations in advance and have good information about the places you will visit,” says Huarancca. “It is necessary to find out the type of food, drinks, and traditions that place has.”
Huacachina, Peru
Huarancca recommends visiting Huacachina, “a small oasis in the middle of the desert.” Located south of Lima and near the city of Ica, Huacachina is a desert village complete with rolling sand dunes on all sides. You can’t swim in Huacachina Lagoon, but you can rent paddle boats to glide across the water. It’s the only natural oasis in all of South America, formed by underground aquifers.
Colca Canyon, Peru
Colca Canyon is another tourist attraction in Peru that you should not miss, according to Huarancca. It’s one of the world’s deepest canyons (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon) and you can take a day trip from Arequipa to see it or a multi-day trek for the most spectacular views. Either way, you’re likely to see plenty of native wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
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Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia
Bolivia is home to the largest salt flat in the world, originally a prehistoric lake that went dry. Now Uyuni Salt Flat is around 4,200 square miles (10,877 square kilometres) of striking white salt and rock formations. If you visit between December and April, which is the rainy season, you may see bright pink flamingos. Many people who have visited when water is on the ground describe the experience as walking on a cloud since the sky is reflected in the water. Book a room at Kachi Lodge, which is set right on the flat, for a very special stay.
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Christ the Redeemer is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a must-see for anyone heading to Brazil. The statue of Jesus stands almost 125 feet tall and looks over Rio de Janeiro. When visiting the marvel, you can expect phenomenal views of the city. Balardjischvili recommends taking the train to see the statue and booking that ticket in advance.
Book your stay at Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel via Agoda.com
Pantanal Wetland, Brazil
Measuring more than 40 million acres, Pantanal Wetland is the biggest wetland on Earth. Jaguars and crocodiles are just two of its residents — with more than 4,700 plant and animal species, it’s one of the most biodiverse destinations on the planet. Balardjischvili recommends “bringing insect repellent, a light raincoat, and a sweatshirt — and always hydrate.”
The Imperial City of Petropolis, Brazil
One of the best places to visit in South America, Petropolis is a mountain resort outside of Rio de Janeiro known for its palaces, architecture, and food. “Visit Petropolis on a guided tour to enjoy the historical aspect,” Balardjischvili says. “Always book your tour on legalised companies with good reviews.”
Book your stay at Casa Marambaia Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Casa Marambaia Hotel via Agoda.com
Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
One of the best places to visit in South America, Sugarloaf Mountain is a major landmark in Brazil, well known for the panoramic city views guests get at the top. The cable car system here opened in 1912; it was the first in Brazil and the third in the world. “For Sugarloaf, visit it in the morning, as it is fresher; sunset is beautiful but extremely crowded,” says Balardjischvili. “If you are travelling during the high season, buy a skip-the-line ticket.” The mountain peak sits almost 1,300 feet in the air, so you’ll be grateful you don’t have to climb all the way up.
When asked about the best time of year to visit Rio de Janeiro, Balardjischvili says May or June, when “you’ll enjoy beautiful sunny days with no rain and 77 degrees (25 degrees Celsius).”
Buenos Aires, Argentina
One of my favourite cities in the world is Buenos Aires , where you can find anything from tango shows and street art to the best steak you’ll ever eat. Each neighbourhood has something special. Head to La Boca for beautiful murals along the streets, then tour the famous cemetery in Recoleta before stopping at a speakeasy in Palermo. There’s no shortage of fantastic things to do here, and the city makes a wonderful home base for seeing more of Argentina.
Book your stay at Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires via Booking.com
Book your stay at Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires via Agoda.com
Zuccardi Winery, Uco Valley, Argentina
Zuccardi Valle de Uco is an award-winning winery that I had the opportunity to visit this past January. It certainly lives up to its reputation, with fantastic wines and the Andes as a stunning backdrop to the property’s extensive vineyards. Reservations for tastings and tours can be made online.
Iguazú Falls, Puerto Iguazú, Argentina
Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls is comprised of about 275 individual waterfalls, making it the largest waterfall system in the world. Most of the waterfalls are on the Argentina side, but the tallest is on the Brazil side. It’s a stunning sight to behold and an absolute must for anyone travelling through South America.
Patagonia, Argentina
Patagonia is larger than many countries around the world and is split between Argentina and Chile . You can expect each city in the region to feel unique; some of the most popular ones in Argentinian Patagonia are El Calafate, Ushuaia, and El Chaltén. Whether you go to Patagonia Brewery in San Carlos de Bariloche or hike one of the 300 glaciers throughout the region, you will surely have an experience you’ll never forget.
Punta del Este Beaches, Uruguay
Uruguay is still relatively underrated, but it is a fantastic place for international travellers. It takes just a couple of hours by ferry to get from Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay. From there, it’s about a two-hour drive to Punta del Este, which has some of the best beaches in the country, plus high-end shopping and fantastic steakhouses.
Book your stay at Hotel Fasano Punta del Este via Booking.com
Valparaíso, Chile
Valparaíso is located on the coast of Chile and is less than a two-hour drive from Santiago. It’s famous for its colourful homes and for being the home of renowned poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda. It’s also connected to Viña del Mar, where you’ll find some of Chile’s top beaches. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with excellent architecture and many things to discover.
Book your stay at Sheraton Miramar Hotel & Convention Center via Booking.com
Book your stay at Sheraton Miramar Hotel & Convention Center via Agoda.com
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands are perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can learn about the archipelago’s unique biodiversity, go scuba diving, lounge on beaches, or embark on a multi-island cruise. You might also swim with sea lions or hang out with giant turtles.
Book your stay at Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel via Agoda.com
Easter Island, Chile
One of the best places to visit in South America, Easter Island is a Chilean territory in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean . It’s known for the nearly 900 stone statues of human figures, called moai , that you’ll find here. The statues are believed to have been created over time, from the 11th century to some time in the 17th century. From Santiago, it’s about a 5.5-hour flight to reach the island.
(Hero and feature image credit: Gabriel_Amaral/Getty Images)
This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com
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25 Best Places To Visit In South America (With Photos)
Would you like to visit South America sometime soon? Or are you daydreaming about fun places to visit ? Whichever it may be, this list of the best places to visit in South America is sure to inspire and strike up some wanderlust.
Some of the best countries to visit in South America are just a flight or two away. Home to beaches, waterfalls, the Amazon Rainforest, massive cities, ancient ruins, the Andes Mountains, glaciers, and more, South America has it all. Whatever you are looking for, you are likely to find it here! Keep reading to discover the top 25 South America travel destinations . Then, get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Table of Contents
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
- Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil
- Cusco, Peru
- Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
- Easter Island, Chile
- El Calafate, Argentina
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- The Sacred Valley, Peru
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Torres del Paine, Chile
- Peruvian Amazon
- Mendoza, Argentina
- Atacama Desert, Chile
- Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
- Quito, Ecuador
- Ushuaia, Argentina
- Arequipa, Peru
- La Paz, Bolivia
- Brazilian Amazon
- Bariloche, Argentina
- Cuenca, Ecuador
- Lake Titicaca, Bolivia and Peru
- Santiago, Chile
1. Machu Picchu, Peru
This masterpiece of the Inca civilization claims the title of the best place to visit in South America . There’s no question that Machu Picchu is visually stunning. But the more you start to learn about its backstory — how it was built and how it stayed intact for 500 years — the more amazed you’ll become.
Part of the reason why Machu Picchu still exists today is due to its hard to reach location in the rainy cloud forest about 50 miles (80 km) northwest of Cusco. Researchers believe that Machu Picchu was the royal estate of the Emperor Pachacuti. He was the 15th-century king responsible for transforming the Inca civilization into the largest empire South America had ever seen. No one knows exactly why the Incas abandoned the site, but the conquering Spaniards never heard of it — or if they did, they never found it.
Machu Picchu, an Inca ruin in the cloud forest of Peru. Photo by Maribell Mormontoy of Peru for Less.
Machu Picchu Tours:
#1 Cusco & Machu Picchu Machu Picchu, Cusco, Sacred Valley 6 Days / from $1219
#2 Explore the Path of the Inca Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Cusco 9 Days / from $1979
A tour of Machu Picchu brings the ruins to life. Walking through the narrow paths, you can start to imagine what daily life was like for inhabitants of the citadel. And you can see for yourself the incredible feats required to transform a mountain ridge into a walkable citadel.
Learn more about this incredible site in our complete Machu Picchu travel guide .
Machu Picchu, the best place to visit in South America. Photo by Michael Wieck of Peru for Less.
2. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands top the list of the best places to visit in Ecuador. This archipelago of 21 islands has one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Along with the incredible scenery, Galapagos tours also include snorkeling, kayaking, and nature walks to enhance your experience.
The islands are best known for aiding Charles Darwin’s research on evolution. To this day, the Galapagos boasts an impressive array of wildlife, and human disturbances are minimal. Sea lions, giant tortoises, sharks, and iguanas are some of the most frequently spotted creatures. In addition, the Galapagos offers some of the best birdwatching in South America. Red and blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, Darwin finches, mockingbirds, and Galapagos penguins are just some of the many bird species living on the islands.
Giant tortoises live on Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal Islands in the Galapagos.
The Galapagos are home to several incredible cruise options in addition to hotels on the main islands. Not sure whether to pick a cruise or a hotel? Read through these questions to help you decide what option is best for you.
Learn more about the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands in our complete Galapagos travel guide .
Ocean view from Santa Fe Island in the Galapagos. Photo by Melissa Dreffs of Peru for Less.
3. Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil
One of the most beautiful places in Brazil and Argentina, the Iguazu Falls are a chain of 275 roaring cascades in the middle of a tropical forest. Shared between the two countries, the Iguazu Falls are one of the best places to travel in South America .
Spanning 1.6 miles (2.7 km) in length, Iguazu Falls is a top contender for the title of South America’s greatest natural wonder. The Devil’s Throat is the largest cascade. Shaped like a semicircle, it is 492 feet (150 m) in diameter, 2297 feet (700 m) from end to end, and boasts an 269 feet (82 m) drop. The roar of crashing water is so deafening it sends chills up your spine.
The Iguazu Falls of Brazil and Argentina. Photo by Melissa Dreffs of Peru for Less.
It’s worth seeing both sides of the falls. Argentina’s Iguazu National Park is a truly immersive experience. More than 70% of the falls are in Argentina and the trails here provide a close encounter with the natural landscape of the falls. The Brazilian Iguazu National Park provides beautiful panoramic views of the falls. As you follow the path, you can get up close to several falls, so be sure to pack a poncho and something to protect your camera.
For a real adrenaline rush, hop aboard a speed boat and ride over whirlpools, waves, and currents to the base of the crashing waters. No matter how you see the falls, be prepared to get fully drenched by the waterfall’s mists!
Looking to see Brazil, Argentina, and Peru all in one trip? Consider this 11-day World Wonders package ! Yes, it’s a whirlwind. But you’ll be talking about the journey for years to come.
Lush jungle surrounds the Iguazu Falls. Photo by Melissa Dreffs of Peru for Less.
4. Cusco, Peru
One of the oldest cities in South America , Cusco was once the capital of the thriving Inca Empire. Today, Cusco is a melting pot of traditional Andean culture and international influences. Besides being the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco is also one of the top places to visit in Peru . The picturesque city of Cusco is absolutely one of the most beautiful places in South America .
Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, or main square from above.
With impressive ruins like Sacsayhuaman , the Temple of the Sun known as Coricancha , and many other historic sites, Cusco has plenty to see and do . There’s something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, architecture, culture, or hiking some of the best treks in Peru . From the bustling San Pedro Market to the bohemian San Blas neighborhood, Cusco is full of lovely colors, friendly people, and unique traditions.
No trip to South America is complete without a visit to Cusco. Learn all about this thriving city in our complete Cusco travel guide .
Coricancha and surrounding architecture. Photo by jdbenthien on Pixabay .
5. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Of all the tourist attractions in Bolivia , Salar de Uyuni is by far the most spectacular. Part of the year, massive, white salt flats stretch as far as the eye can see. However, during the wet season from November to March, a thin layer of water covers the salt flats. As a result, the salt flats turn into a perfect natural mirror, reflecting the sky and everything above.
Uyuni salt flats. Photo by mailanmaik on pixabay .
Colorful lagoons, unique wildlife, and the nearby Salvador Dali Desert only add to the experience. The largest salt desert in the world, Uyuni has a remote location in the Potosi department in the southwest corner of the country. Daily flights connect Uyuni with La Paz, the capital of Bolivia.
For a unique experience in both Peru and Bolivia, check out this 11-day highlights tour , ending with a 3-day tour of the Uyuni salt flats !
Cacti growing in the Uyuni salt flats. Photo by oscarwcastillo on pixabay .
6. Easter Island, Chile
Although Easter Island is about 2,500 miles (4,000 km) from Chile’s coast, it is one of the most famous places in Chile . While legally a Chilean territory, Easter Island is a part of the Polynesian Islands. Easter Island, or Rapa Nui , is a true archaeological gem of the Pacific. The island is home to 887 moai stone statues known for their distinct humanoid features.
The moai statues are the main attractions on the island and the most well known feature globally. Each statue represents an ancestor of the native Rapa Nui people. Made from volcanic ash found near the extinct Rano Raraku volcano, many statues never made it to their final destination. About half of the statues are still in the quarry, making it another unique site to visit on the island.
Moai , or statues, of Easter Island in Chile.
Did you know that you can also see volcanic craters, go scuba diving, and go horseback riding on Easter Island? With so much to see and do, why not add this destination to your South America trip ?
Learn more about Easter Island or check out a sample itinerary to Santiago and Easter Island here .
Easter Island statues.
7. El Calafate, Argentina
One of the best places to visit in Argentina , El Calafate is the hub to visit Los Glaciares National Park. 47 glaciers call this park home, and one of the most spectacular and well known is Perito Moreno. This glacier is a whopping 97 square miles (250 sq km) of ice. Snow-capped mountains and Lake Argentino, an icy blue lake, make a visit to Perito Moreno all the more stunning.
While many glaciers around the world are melting, the Perito Moreno glacier is in a state of equilibrium. It continues accumulating mass at about the same rate that it is losing mass. Scientists are still debating the reason, but this fact makes Perito Moreno stand out from other glaciers in the world.
Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate, Argentina.
While visiting, put on some crampons and hike on top of the glacier for a truly unique experience. Mini trekking allows you to hike for about two hours, passing waterfalls and icy lagoons. For those looking for an even more remote, adventurous experience, head out on a Big Ice tour for four hours of trekking. This is certainly more intense, but the views along the way are worth it. Read more about the hiking options on Perito Moreno here .
If you plan to travel to Patagonia , El Calafate is worth adding to your trip. Take a look at our travel packages to El Calafate here .
Glacier views in El Calafate, Argentina.
8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
With some of the best beaches in South America , Rio de Janeiro is certainly one of our top travel destinations. While Brazil itself is huge – the largest country in South America – and full of awesome places to visit , Rio de Janeiro is very high on the list. In addition to its gorgeous beaches, Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant, cultural hub best known for its extravagant Carnival festival each February.
One of the most famous places in Brazil , the gargantuan statue of Christ the Redeemer towers over one of the most recognizable landscapes in the world. Brazil is a deeply Catholic country. In fact, the statue’s construction was funded entirely by donations from Catholic parishioners across Brazil. For residents of Rio de Janeiro, it is as symbolic of the city’s identity as Carnival, samba, and soccer (or football, as the locals call it).
Christ the Redeemer overlooking Rio de Janeiro. Photo by guertzen on pixabay .
From the top, you can soak in breathtaking views of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay. This combination of city and mountains by the sea has bred an exceptional outdoor lifestyle unique to Rio — so unique it was recognized as a UNESCO Cultural Landscape in 2012.
What better place to visit on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to South America? Take a look at our suggested Rio de Janeiro tour packages here .
Cable cars in Rio de Janeiro. Photo by Poswiecie on pixabay .
9. The Sacred Valley, Peru
Most travelers heading to Peru know of Cusco and Machu Picchu, but the area in between is a hidden gem. One of the must sees in Peru , the Sacred Valley is a quaint, picturesque region in the Peruvian Andes, characterized by small towns nestled in between the tall peaks.
Sheep grazing in Peru’s Sacred Valley. Photo by Loretta Lynn on pixabay .
The Sacred Valley is an adventure lover’s paradise. Activities like zip lining, trekking, mountain biking, and more draw travelers to the remote region. Inca ruins, artisan markets, and small Quechua villages across the valley only enhance the experience. Travelers can stay in one of many luxury hotels tucked between the mountains. Incredible spas, vast mountain landscapes, and clear skies full of stars await!
Learn more in our complete Sacred Valley travel guide .
The Sacred Valley in Peru. Photo by Paul Daly on Unsplash .
10. Buenos Aires, Argentina
The capital and one of the most famous places in Argentina , Buenos Aires truly lives up to its nickname, “the Paris of South America.” A cosmopolitan, culturally rich city, Buenos Aires offers endless grand boulevards, eclectic architecture, a quaint cafe culture, and great shopping all reminiscent of Paris.
The Plaza Fuerza Aérea Argentina in the Retiro district of Buenos Aires.
In addition, Buenos Aires is a hub for tango, art museums, and live theater, with the most active theaters of any city worldwide! Known for high quality meat, Argentinean restaurants pair delicious dishes with some of the best wine the world has to offer. From Buenos Aires, you can even check out Uruguay for a day or two.
Learn more about the best neighborhoods in Buenos Aires . Then take a look at some suggested travel packages to Buenos Aires . Bon voyage !
Colorful signs are a staple in Buenos Aires. Photo by ArtTower on pixabay .
11. Torres del Paine, Chile
Our top destination in Chilean Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is full of astounding peaks, icy blue lagoons, and endless hiking trails to explore. Trips to Torres del Paine can range anywhere from one day tours to 9-11 day trekking circuits. Best known for the 5-day W-trek, all the treks in the national park pass by impressive sights like volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls.
Trekking deep into the park adds even more to the once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, all visitors to the park can see beautiful mountain landscapes, massive icebergs, flower-filled valleys, and the dramatic, towering spires above.
Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.
A rather remote destination, most travelers take a combination of flight, bus, and car to reach the park. Puerto Natales , a small town just outside the park, is the typical launching point for Torres del Paine exploration with several quaint lodges. However, several lodges sit inside the national park itself.
For more information on our Torres del Paine packages, contact our team of expert Travel Advisors.
Guanacos, a llama relative, roam in the Torres del Paine National Park.
12. Peruvian Amazon
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the top places you should visit . Crossing the borders into nine countries in South America , this jungle is the largest and most biodiverse in the world. As a tourist destination, two cities in the Peruvian Amazon, Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos, offer travelers a unique, in depth visit to the rainforest.
Get up close and personal with the Amazon River, pink river dolphins, and plenty of unique animals in Iquitos . The main city in the northern part of the rainforest, Iquitos is rather far from other destinations. However, daily flights with Lima connect travelers to this remote location. Choose from luxury river cruises or all-inclusive jungle lodges for the best experience.
Lake Sandoval in Puerto Maldonado, Peru. Photo by Lizzie Thomas of Peru for Less.
Puerto Maldonado, on the other hand, is closer to Cusco (with direct flights available daily) and has superior jungle lodges . The proximity to the Tambopata National Reserve enhances the chances of spotting unique jungle wildlife , including monkeys, giant river otters, and many colorful birds.
Check out our complete Peruvian Amazon travel guide here .
Rainbow above the Peruvian Amazon canopy. Photo by Liz Sperling of Peru for Less.
13. Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is one of the top places to see in Argentina . Home to many of the best vineyards in the country, Mendoza is the place to go to discover South American wines. While Mendoza is best known for high quality Malbec, some vineyards also offer other wine varieties, like Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and Chardonnay.
Vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina.
Besides the phenomenal wines, the landscape surrounding Mendoza is stunning. The city rests in the foothills of the Andes, near the highest peak in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres, the Aconcagua (22,837 ft / 6,960.8 m). While most travelers come for the wine, adventure activities like hiking, river rafting, and biking are also available.
Check out some insider tips about Mendoza here !
Sunset over Mendoza’s vineyards.
14. Lima, Peru
One of the major cities in South America , Lima sits on the Pacific coast and is best known as the gastronomic capital of South America. Due to its history, the Lima we know today is a fusion of indigenous, European, African, and Asian cultures and cuisines.
Today, Creole, Nikkei, and chifa cuisines dominate the food scene in Lima. With some of the best restaurants in the world, visitors can expect high quality, unique fusion bites all across the city. Take a look at our Lima restaurant guide here .
The Costa Verde , or Green Coast, of Miraflores in Lima, Peru.
The second largest city in South America , Lima is only smaller than São Paulo, Brazil. As with any big city, there is always something happening and plenty of fun things to do .
To learn more about Lima, check out our extensive travel guide !
Lima’s main square, the Plaza de Armas.
15. Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is the driest place in the world. Stretching along Chile’s Pacific coast, penguins, flamingoes, and even sea lions call this desert home. The best desert in South America , Atacama is one of the top places to visit in Chile .
This desert has an array of geysers, colorful lagoons, incredible rock formations, and some of the clearest night skies in the world. A massive, expensive series of 66 telescopes draws many scientists to Atacama, one of the best stargazing locations on earth.
The barren Atacama Desert in Chile.
San Pedro de Atacama is a small town in the north of the desert with just a few thousand inhabitants. However, it is an ideal launching point for Atacama Desert exploration. Near the El Tatio geyser field, the Atacama salt flats, and the out-of-this-world Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), San Pedro is close to some incredible landscapes and attractions.
For more information, check out our San Pedro de Atacama travel guide .
Atacama, the largest desert in South America. Photo by Hailey Kean on Unsplash .
16. Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
Salvador de Bahia is among the best places to visit in Brazil . Considered the center of Afro-Brazilian culture, Salvador is known for its music, capoeira , cuisine, and incredibly friendly people. In addition, its beaches and Carnival celebrations might be some of the best in South America, rivaling those of Rio de Janeiro.
Historic center of Salvador de Bahia. Image: Salvador de Bahía ” by Taskaso , used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Compressed from original
Indigenous, African, and European influences have shaped every aspect of Salvador’s culture, from cuisine and religion to literature and art. Once the capital of colonial Brazil, Salvador still has many remnants of that era. For example, the incredibly colorful houses, Portuguese-inspired architecture, and large churches in the historical center of town remain just as prominent as they were in the past.
To learn more about Salvador, the “Capital of Happiness”, check out this post !
Salvador de Bahia, Brazil. Photo by soel84 on pixabay .
17. Quito, Ecuador
A top place to visit in Ecuador is the capital city of Quito. Sitting at a lofty 9,350 feet (2,850 m) above sea level, Quito might take your breath away, literally and figuratively. UNESCO declared Quito one of the first World Cultural Heritage Sites in 1978. Its historic center is one of the best preserved in the world. Quaint plazas, massive churches, and varied architecture tells the colonial history of Quito to passersby. Learn more about Quito’s historic center here .
The Church of San Francisco in Quito, Ecuador. Image: Church of San Francisco, Quito, Ecuador ” by Diego Delso , used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Compressed from original
The equator sits just north of the city limits, offering another unique attraction for visitors. A large, 100 foot (30 m) tall monument sits in the “Middle of the World.” This monument sits where the equator was believed to be in the 1700s. However, with the creation of GPS technology, we learned this spot was close, but not accurate. Today, the Intiñan Museum sits on the GPS proven equator, with a line, sign, and other props for fun pictures. Additionally, interesting experiments help prove the exact location of the equator.
To learn more, check out our Quito travel guide here .
The Basilica of the National Vow in Quito, Ecuador. Image: Basilica del Voto Nacional ” by mike , used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Compressed from original
18. Ushuaia, Argentina
Ushuaia is among the best places to go in South America ’s Patagonia region. At the southern tip of the continent, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. The capital city of the region known as Tierra del Fuego , or Land of Fire in English, Ushuaia is a picturesque, albeit rugged, destination. Despite its isolation, the city is comfortable and boasts many modern conveniences travelers are accustomed to.
Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Photo by Dennis Fidalgo on Unsplash .
A common launching point for cruises to Antarctica , Ushuaia has a similar, cold barrenness to what you expect of the Antarctic. Adventurous travelers can hike, trek, or ski. Animal and history lovers will also feel at home in Ushuaia. Head on a tour along the Beagle Channel to see a penguin colony up close and personal. Another great thing to do in Ushuaia is taking a ride on the End of the World Train. This ride explores the history of the town, all while passing by incredible Patagonian landscapes.
Learn more in our Ushuaia travel guide here .
Ushuaia at sunset. Photo by azorko on pixabay .
19. Arequipa, Peru
Arequipa, known as the land of eternal spring, is the second most populous city in Peru. The churches and mansions in Arequipa were made using a white volcanic stone known as sillar . Because of this, Arequipa has also earned the nickname, the “White City”. A true architectural gem, Arequipa also has incredible cuisine, with tasty regional dishes like rocoto relleno (stuffed hot chili pepper) and chupe de camarones (shrimp soup). Take a look at our Arequipa restaurant guide here .
The main plaza of Arequipa, Peru. Photo by Ana Castañeda for Peru for Less.
Arequipa is the main launching point for tours of the Colca Canyon , the second deepest canyon in the world. A hot spot for Andean condor sightings, a Colca Canyon tour allows travelers to see the natural beauty of the region. However, Arequipa itself offers breathtaking views of Andean mountains and three volcanoes surrounding the city.
Check out our complete Arequipa travel guide for more!
The Arequipa Cathedral in the main square. Photo by Ana Castañeda for Peru for Less.
20. La Paz, Bolivia
One of the best places to visit in Bolivia is the capital city of La Paz. The highest capital in the world, La Paz sits 11,942 feet (3,640 m) above sea level. Surrounded by tall peaks of the Andes Mountains, views across the city are breathtaking.
Travelers will appreciate La Paz’s markets, including the one-of-a-kind Witches’ Market . Local witch doctors known as yatiris sell potions, medicinal plants, dried rats and frogs, and many other curious items. The Moon Valley is another key attraction found just outside the downtown area. The strange rock formations seem like they belong on the moon, hence the name ”Moon Valley”. The giant spires create intricate mazes and paths to explore the area, and they are a great backdrop for photos.
La Paz, Bolivia, the highest capital city in the world.
La Paz also boasts the largest urban cable car network in the world, Mi Teleférico . As of August 2020, ten lines currently operate, connecting neighborhoods within La Paz and even extending to neighboring cities, like El Alto.
Explore La Paz and other Bolivian and Peruvian highlights in an 11-day travel package or contact our team to customize your trip.
Cable cars crossing La Paz, Bolivia. Photo by Daniella Beccaria of Peru for Less.
21. Brazilian Amazon
The Amazon is a remarkable place to see in Brazil . About 60% of this massive rainforest belongs to Brazil. Manaus and Pantanal are two of the best places to go in the Brazilian Amazon. Both cities offer comfortable lodging and a great variety of wildlife to spot.
In Manaus , visitors travel along the Amazon River to see pink river dolphins and giant water lilies, among other wildlife . However, one of the main attractions is the Meeting of the Waters, where the Amazon and Rio Negro meet. The two rivers have different compositions, causing them to have different colors. The Rio Negro is a blackwater river and looks similar to black tea. The Amazon, however, is a whitewater river, and looks similar to coffee with cream. When they meet, these two rivers flow side by side without mixing, creating a unique spectacle.
The Meeting of the Waters in Manaus. Image: Meeting of waters from the air manaus brazil ” by Immelman284, used under CC BY-SA 3.0 / Compressed from original
Pantanal is another top destination in South America . A marshy wetland, the area is home to extremely diverse life. Hundreds of bird species, including the elusive hyacinth macaw and crowned solitary eagle, call Pantanal home. Pantanal also offers some of the best odds of spotting a jaguar.
In comparison with the Peruvian Amazon, Brazil offers a more remote, rustic experience. Accommodations are basic, whereas lodges in the Peruvian jungle generally are more comfortable and even luxurious. Manaus and Pantanal are far from major destinations, meaning longer travel times. For example, Manaus is a four hour flight away from Rio de Janeiro. Whichever jungle destination you choose, you will certainly have an incredible experience.
Giant lily pads in Pantanal. Image: Pantanal ” by Raphael Milani , used under CC BY 2.0 / Compressed from original
22. Bariloche, Argentina
One of the top places to visit in Argentina is Bariloche, the biggest city in the Nahuel Huapi National Park. The park itself sits in the Lakes District of Patagonia. This region has 20 gorgeous lakes including the strikingly blue Nahuel Huapi Lake just north of Bariloche. A visit here can easily combine with a visit to Puerto Varas, Chile. A stunning, full-day tour known as the Lakes Crossing passes through three of the breathtaking lakes in the area to connect the two cities.
Bariloche, the main city in Argentina’s Lakes District, is home to several striking blue lakes.
Bariloche is close to Cerro Catedral , the biggest ski center in the Southern Hemisphere and the top destination for skiing in South America. Besides skiing, adventure travelers will love the trekking, mountaineering, and whitewater rafting in Bariloche. The town also offers high quality chocolate, cheese, and beer, primarily because of the German and Swiss immigrants that moved to Bariloche in the late 1800s.
Learn more about Bariloche in our travel guide !
A path along the Traful Lake north of Bariloche.
23. Cuenca, Ecuador
Cuenca is a historical city in Ecuador’s highlands. After the Inca Empire conquered the region, they built up Cuenca. Then known as Tomebamba , Cuenca became the second major capital of their empire, just after Cusco. While not much remains from this time period, Cuenca today is a tremendous example of colonial architecture.
Cobblestoned streets and red-tiled roofs are characteristic of Cuenca. The Spanish built parks, squares, and churches, including two massive cathedrals. The Spaniards began plans to build the original cathedral in 1557, with sufficient space for all of the town’s residents. As the town’s population grew, they began plans for a new, much larger cathedral whose construction began in the 1800s. Today, its three blue domes pierce the Cuenca skyline.
Cuenca’s New Cathedral. Photo by fernandozhiminaicela on pixabay .
In addition, Cuenca earned the nickname the “Athens of Ecuador” as many notable writers, philosophers, and artists have come from the city. Also known for its high quality artisan pieces, travelers can pick up fine leather goods, ceramics, and Panama hats, which are actually from Ecuador.
Learn more about the marvelous city of Cuenca here .
The New Cathedral of Cuenca at sunset. Photo by fernandozhiminaicela on pixabay .
24. Lake Titicaca, Bolivia and Peru
One of the most famous places in Bolivia and Peru is Lake Titicaca. Sitting on the border between the two countries, this lake is the highest navigable lake in the world, reaching an altitude of 12,500 ft (3,800 m) above sea level. Its deep blue waters combined with the vibrant, friendly communities around the lake make it a truly wonderful place to visit.
Home to diverse indigenous communities, the islands across the lake invite visitors in for a glimpse into their unique lifestyles. From Puno, travelers can access the majestic, man-made floating Uros Islands and see an array of colorful textiles on Taquile Island.
Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca. Photo by Alejandra Izquierdo of Peru for Less.
On the other hand, Isla del Sol is the top attraction from Copacabana, the main city on the Bolivian side. Legend has it the creator of the Inca was born on Isla del Sol. Today, explore impressive ancient ruins surrounded by the natural beauty of the lake.
Check out more in our Lake Titicaca travel guide .
Lake Titicaca from Isla del Sol, Bolivia.
25. Santiago, Chile
The capital of Chile, Santiago, sits in the middle of the world’s narrowest country. Above all, Santiago is a culturally rich place to visit. The beautiful wine and coastal regions surrounding the city make a visit to Santiago even better.
Art and history museums dot the city, including the National Fine Arts Museum. The bohemian Barrio Bellavista neighborhood is full of colorful buildings, quaint cafes and restaurants. You can even find one of Nobel Prize winning poet Pablo Neruda’s homes here. For a beautiful view of Santiago, climb or take the cable car up to the top of Cerro San Cristobal. This hill has a tall statue of the Virgin Mary overlooking the city.
Cable cars in downtown Santiago, Chile.
In addition, Santiago has easy access to the Chilean coast and wine regions for fun day trips. The vineyards of Maipo Valley in the outskirts of town produce mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet blends. The beautiful coastal cities of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar are a short drive away from Santiago. Valparaiso is full of picturesque, colorful views and bohemian vibes. Vina del Mar is a relaxing, seaside escape to spot sea lions or catch an incredible sunset over the water.
Learn more about Santiago here .
Downtown Santiago meets the Andes Mountains.
Ready to start exploring any of these best places to visit in South America ? No matter which destinations you choose, you will get an exciting taste of what South America has to offer. Enthralling cultural, exquisite architecture, and geographical diversity await. Who knows? Maybe you’ll love what you see and decide to come back for more.
Contact our team to start customizing your dream trip to South America with an expert Travel Advisor today.
Latin America for Less is a group of travel experts who live, work, eat, and breathe all things South America. Their inspiration stems from a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity that make this continent so special.
Tags: Argentina , Bolivia , Brazil , Chile , Ecuador , Peru , South America
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The Best Countries to Visit in South America (And Where To Go In Each)
February 23, 2021 · In: South America
Wondering where to go in South America? Let’s discover the best countries in South America — and the best places to go in each.
DO YOU WANT TO TRAVEL TO SOUTH AMERICA (or somewhere else!) WITH ME? I am hosting a group trip in 2023 and you get to choose where we go! Learn more here and fill out this super-quick survey to tell me where you’d want to go!
There’s something so raw about traveling in South America .
If you’ve ever spent some time in the vast continent, you know exactly what I mean. Everything from the landscapes to the food is so untamed, with flavors and mountains alike leaving visitors utterly speechless.
You’ll find experiences for travelers of all kinds across the best countries to visit in South America — but it’s an especially inviting place for adventurous souls.
If one thing’ s for certain, it’s that South America holds the cure for off-the-beaten-path adventurers who have been confined to their hometowns for the past year.
In 2018, I spent four months backpacking across seven incredible countries in South America.
Back then, I had no idea I’d one day call this continent home. Now, I want to inspire you to explore this wildly beautiful part of the world with me.
Table of Contents
Why Visit The Best Countries in South America?
It’s hard to fathom why anyone wouldn’t want to visit South America .
Yet many of the best places to visit in South America are among the least explored in the world, especially when compared to their European or Southeast Asian counterparts.
So, why should you visit? To start, South America is a cornucopia of natural wonders.
South America is home to the Andes, the globe’s longest continental mountain range; the Amazon River, the world’s largest by volume; the Amazon Rainforest, the largest of its kind; the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat; and La Paz, the highest capital city in the world.
Beyond its gargantuan mountains and sprawling rainforests, South America is also home to a number of thriving metropolitan areas.
São Paulo, Brazil can very well hold its own against New York in the culinary, entertainment and history departments . O ver in Peru, Lima has long been considered one of the best food cities in the world . Then you have Santiago in Chile, with all the urban comforts of a modern city coupled with the Andes in its backyard.
Each South American country’s culture and cuisine is as rich as its geographical landscapes. Better yet, many remote places in South America remain sheltered from mainstream tourism.
If you’re looking for a place to feel inspired, to reconnect with yourself in nature, to feel the groundbreaking forces of culture shock in the best way possible — consider booking your next trip to one of the best countries in South America.
| READ MORE: The Full Guide to Backpacking in South America
10 Things To Know Before Traveling to South America
Traveling in South America is always an adventure. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you’re planning your trip to one of the best countries to visit in South America.
- Knowing a bit of Spanish goes a long way. South America is a primarily Spanish-speaking continent, and English isn’t widely spoken. Knowing a few phrases can really help you get around.
- Flights are expensive. Flying in between countries in South America can be expensive. Most people who spend a good amount of time on the continent choose to travel by land.
- That being said, bus travel is widely available and extremely popular. You can travel everywhere in South America by bus. The longest bus journey I took was a grueling 23 hours from Santiago, Chile to the Atacama Desert!
- It’s not as dangerous as you may have read online. Bigger cities are generally less safe than smaller towns and mountain villages, but I never felt particularly unsafe during my trip. Just be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, especially expensive items like cameras and iPhones.
- Bargaining is part of the culture. You can bargain for nearly everything in South America, just be mindful about supporting (not hurting) local businesses.
- Pack lots of layers. The constant change in altitude can bring about all kinds of weather. And don’t forget the seasons are opposite of the Northern Hemisphere.
- Don’t forget the sunblock. Sunblock can actually be really expensive in South America. Trust me when I say you’ll need plenty of it!
- Carry cash with you. You can use your credit card and withdraw cash easily in big cities like Rio de Janeiro. But you’ll find that cash is the preferred method of payment in more remote parts of the continent.
- Be careful with the food and water. Depending on where you’re traveling, you’ll want to avoid tap water. You may also find yourself adjusting to the bold flavors of South American cuisine, which may or not cause a few bouts of traveler’s diarrhea (sorry — I had to warn ya)
- WiFi isn’t always a given. Don’t expect to have reliable WiFi everywhere.
How To Get Around South America
One of the most striking differences between backpacking in South America versus other continents is the vast distance between countries.
Traveling within massive countries like Brazil, Peru and Chile can also take up a lot of time, especially by land. I remember the time I spent 23 hours on a bus within the same country .
If you’re planning to travel to more than one of the best countries to visit in South America, note that flying can be expensive. While flying to different cities within the same country might not break the bank, flying between countries can add up really quickly.
During the four months I spent in South America, I think I only took about three or four flights. I actually traveled from Chile to Bolivia to Peru to Ecuador to Colombia all by land.
Buses are the most popular way to travel in South America. Both private and public buses are easily accessible and readily available throughout the entire continent.
Night buses are extremely common, and many of them are actually quite comfortable. Every country has at least a few reputable companies that offer “luxury” long-distance buses equipped with beds and bathrooms. Some even offer meal service.
However, you should always bring snacks on board to be safe! Sometimes certain long-distance buses don’t offer many bathroom or meal breaks.
Travel Tip: The best way to book your bus tickets is to book in-person at the city’s local bus station.
5 Things You Must Pack For Your Trip To South America
- Good pair of hiking boots
- Rain jacket
- Lightweight thermal down jacket
- eBags packing cubes
- A conspicuous camera bag
The Best Countries To Visit in South America
Backpacking through South America was hands down the most thrilling and humbling travel experience I’ve ever had. I was fortunate enough to spend time in each of the seven countries below.
Each offer their own set of exciting bucket list experiences , and I’m so excited to inspire you to get to know them yourself.
From a sparkling salt desert in Bolivia to an untouched archipelago in Brazil, here are the best places to visit in South America.
Note: The best countries to visit in South America are listed in alphabetical order, not ranked from first to last.
Argentina: Best Places to Visit in South America
First up on the list of best countries to visit in South America is Argentina, a country known for its streetside tango dances, the incredible Patagonia region and, of course, its sophisticated capital city of Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is Argentina’s big capital city. It’s probably the most European-like city I visited in South America. Buenos Aires is divided up into different eclectic neighborhoods, each with its own personality and charm. It’s easy to drink and eat well there: Argentinian-style steak, savory empanadas and milanesa (breaded and fried chicken or veal) are must-eats. Don’t skip out on a tango performance either.
How To Get To Buenos Aires: You’ll fly into the city’s international airport, Ezeiza Ministro Pistarini. Stay : Browse Buenos Aires hotel deals here .
Bariloche, Argentina
Bariloche is Argentina’s premier ski destination, reminiscent of a European winter village. While snow sports are the main attraction in the winter, Bariloche is also a great pace to visit in the summer, spring and fall. You can hike through the beautiful scenery at Nahuel Huapi National Park, as well as explore other scenic attractions on a day trip from the city.
How To Get To Bariloche: You can fly there from Buenos Aires or take a 24-hour coach bus from the capital. Stay: Browse Bariloche hotel deals here .
Mendoza, Argentina
Wine lovers can head to Mendoza, a region recognized as a leader in Malbec production worldwide. Spend your days touring as many bodegas (wineries) as possible, visit an olive grove, ski or hike at Los Penitentes ski resort, and take a sunset horseback ride at the foot of the Andes.
How To Get To Mendoza: You can fly there from Buenos Aires or take a long-distance bus that takes about 14 hours each way. Stay: Browse Mendoza hotel deals here .
El Calafate, Argentina
El Calafate is considered the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and home to the massive Perito Moreno Glacier. Come here to walk along a boardwalk that faces the impressive glacier, which constantly wows visitors by shedding huge chunks of ice into the frozen water below. You can get up close and personal with the glacier by taking a cruise , which picks you up at your hotel and features lunch with glacier views onboard a catamaran . Or you can strap on your crampons and hike on the glacier itself with this exciting trekking tour .
How To Get To El Calafate: You can fly there from Buenos Aires, Ushuaia or Bariloche. Stay: Browse El Calafate hotel deals here .
Bolivia: Best Countries to Visit in South America
Bolivia is a country rich in otherworldly landscapes, adventures of all kinds and vibrant cultural festivals. It may not be the first South American country that comes to mind when you think of planning a trip down south, but here are three epic reasons to add it to your list.
La Paz, Bolivia
Arriving in La Paz already brings on a rush of emotions: It’s the highest capital of the world, sitting comfortably on a plateau 3,500 meters (11,482 feet) above sea level. It’s quite literally a city in the sky. Surrounded by even taller mountains, including the 6,438-meter snow-capped Mt. Illimani, the scenery in La Paz is absolutely striking. A suspended cable car system (the teleférico) is one of the main modes of transportation in the city, connecting the lower levels of the valley to the looming mountain peaks around it. Make sure to swing by the Witches’ Market for all kinds of spooky superstitious items.
How To Get To La Paz: You can fly to El Alto International Airport, the highest international airport in the world! Stay: Browse La Paz hotel deals here .
Lake Titicaca, Bolivia
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and the largest in South America. The deep blue body of water sits on the border between Peru and Bolivia, and is known for being the birthplace of the Incas. On the Bolivian side you’ll first arrive in the town of Copacabana, where there are plenty of hotels, restaurants and shops. From there you can take a boat to Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna to visit the ancient civilizations that have called the islands home for thousands of years.
How To Get To Lake Titicaca: You can only reach Lake Titicaca by bus or car, from both the Peruvian or Bolivian sides. Stay: Browse Copacabana hotel deals here .
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
One of the main attractions in Bolivia is the Salar de Uyuni , the world’s largest salt flat. It’s 11,000 square kilometers of glistening white salt, an endless horizon that appears to have no ending or beginning. The journey there is an adventure in and of itself. The most popular way to visit the salt flat is to join a three- to four-night tour that takes you through Bolivia’s striking desert landscape. Along the course of the tour you’ll swim in hot springs, drive by towering volcanoes and visit local villages. It’s a pretty rugged trip, but the experience is beyond incredible. If that’s sounds too adventurous for you, this luxury tour includes a short flight from La Paz to Uyuni, allowing you to explore the salt flat in ultimate comfort .
Read more: What To Expect From The Salar de Uyuni Tour in Bolivia
How To Get To Salar de Uyuni: You can fly, take a bus or join a multi-day tour to get to Uyuni, where you’ll drive to the salt flat nearby.
Brazil: Best Places To Visit in South America
Brazil is home to several of the most exciting places to visit in South America. Untouched virgin beaches, tropical rainforests, rhythmic cities and a vibrant population await in South America’s largest country.
The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
The Amazon is the world’s largest tropical rainforest, covering much of northwestern Brazil and reaching into Colombia, Peru and other South American countries. The biodiversity alone makes this one of the most unique places in South America to visit; one in every 10 known species can be found within the rainforest. You can visit local villages, learn from the indegineous people who live off the land, swim in the Amazon River and get in touch with nature with guided hikes through the rainforest.
How To Get To The Amazon Rainforest: You can fly into Manaus in northern Brazil, which will be your base to explore the Brazilian Amazon. Stay: Browse Manaus hotel deals here .
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
This idyllic archipelago in the north of Brazil is barely known outside the country — yet it’s home to Praia do Sancho, often voted the most beautiful beach in the world . Brazil’s secret paradise is composed of 21 islands off the country’s northeastern coast. It’s a national marine park, and the number of visitors allowed on the islands is limited to protect the natural environment. Because of this, Fernando de Noronha is a haven for sea life, which makes it one of the best scuba diving destinations in Brazil.
How To Get To Fernando de Noronha: Flights depart from Brazilian mainland towns of Recife in Pernambuco and Natal in Rio Grande do Norte. Stay: Browse Fernando de Noronha hotel deals here .
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Ah, Rio de Janeiro, my new home! Rio de Janeiro is surely one of the livliest cities you’ll ever visit. The city vibrates to the tunes of summer, and you can count on finding local cariocas on the beach all year long. Rio’s white sandy beaches are surrounded by towering mountains and the colorful favelas that call them home. It’s all part of what makes Rio’s culture so rich and full of energy. No matter where you are, you’ll always find a friendly face ready to show you the best of his or her city.
How To Get To Rio de Janeiro: You’ll fly into Rio’s international airport, Aeroporto Internacional Tom Jobim, also known as Galeão. Stay: Browse Fernando de Noronha hotel deals here .
São Paulo, Brazil
Down south, this is the city that never sleeps. São Paulo is the business and financial center of the country. It’s home to a whopping 12.3 million people, making it one of the most populated cities in the world. Museums and theaters are aplenty, and the city is renowned worldwide for its culinary scene. Brazil’s very own concrete jungle is the ideal place for city lovers.
How To Get To São Paulo: You’ll fly into São Paulo’s international airport, Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport, more commonly known as Guarulhos. Stay: Browse São Paulo hotel deals here .
Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil
Another little known destination outside of Brazil is Lencois Maranhenses, a national park marked by tall white sand dunes and the fresh water lagoons that form between them. The turquoise lagoons are at their fullest in June, July and August, the most popular times to visit the park. The best way to explore the park is by walking, or joining a tour that can drive you across the dunes in a 4×4 Jeep authorized to enter the park.
How To Get To Lençóis Maranhenses: You’ll first fly into the São Luís International Airport. From there, you’ll drive, take a bus or a private van to Barreirinhas or Santo Amaro do Maranhão, the two main entry points of the park.
Chile: Best Countries To Visit in South America
Home to more than 6,000 kilometers (3,728 miles) of Pacific Ocean coastline, the Andes Mountains, the driest place on earth and expansive glacial fields: This is Chile. The incredibly diverse landscape of Chile is a joy to explore, and many places will remind you why you fell in love with travel in the first place.
Pucón, Chile
Pucón is the best small mountain town you’ve never heard of. Located in Chile’s Lake District, Pucón is reminiscent of a European ski village — except there’s a 2,800 -meter ( 9,000-foot) volcano looming in the background. It’s become an outdoor adventure hotspot for locals and travelers alike, mainly due to its location near Villarrica, one of Chile’s most active volcanoes. The main draw is climbing the giant, a feat that hikers of all levels have tackled. Other outdoor activities like white-water rafting, hiking through national parks and skiing are also big in the area.
How To Get To Pucón: You can fly into Temuco airport, or Aeropuerto de la Araucania, and take a shuttle to Pucón. You can also take a 10-hour overnight bus from Santiago, or drive yourself. Stay: Browse Pucon hotel deals here .
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
S an Pedro de Atacama is one of the most unique places in South America I’ve ever visited. San Pedro is a backpacker’s haven located in Chile’s Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on earth. It’s so dry that it’s recommended to carry 2 liters of water with you at all times. Backpackers flock here for the towering volcanoes, active geysers, hot springs, emerald-blue lagoons and a moon-like valley, all of which can be explored on day trips from San Pedro. Visitors looking to experience the Salar de Uyuni can also do so from San Pedro de Atacama, with three- to four-day trips available.
How To Get To San Pedro de Atacama: The closest airport to San Pedro de Atacama is Calama’s El Loa Airport, or you can take a (very long) bus from Santiago. Stay: Browse San Pedro de Atacama hotel deals here .
Torres del Paine, Chile
Chile’s iconic Torres del Paine National Park is a hiker’s dream. The park takes up more than 700 square miles in the Chilean Patagonia, and has become so popular that visitor numbers are now restricted. It’s probably the most scenic place to visit in all of Chile. The park offers some of the best hiking in the world, including the famous “ W Circuit ,” a four- to six-day trek that leads you through a dizzying mix of glaciers, forests, waterfalls and turquoise lakes.
How To Get To Torres del Paine: You can fly into Punta Arenas, the nearest airport to Torres del Paine National Park, and from there take a bus or rent a car to get to the park. Stay: Browse Torres del Paine hotel deals here .
Colombia: Best Places to Visit in South America
Colombia might be my favorite country in South America, aside from my family’s native country of Brazil. I encountered the warmest culture and most comforting cuisine. Its unique geographical location also makes it incredibly diverse: You have Caribbean beaches, the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes Mountains, and Cocora Valley, a cloud forest studded with giant palm trees.
Cartagena, Colombia
The colorful city of Cartagena is molded by both Colombian and Caribbean cultures. Its location on the Caribbean coast gives way to a giddy, laidback island vibe. Visitors love to wander the historic Old Town, where pastel-colored buildings are as picturesque as the bougainvillea hanging from their balconies. Delicious seafood and Colombian pastries are available on every corner, and there’s also no shortage of beaches to visit, with tours leaving daily to nearby islands.
How To Get To Cartagena: You can fly into Rafael Núñez International Airport, which is actually only three hours from Miami. Stay: Browse Cartagena hotel deals here .
Medellin, Colombia
Medellin is Colombia’s second largest city, and it’s come a long way from its violent history with drug warfare. The city once ranked among the most dangerous in the world is now buzzing with tourists, fresh food markets in tree-shaded neighborhoods, digital nomad-friendly communities like El Poblado, and the best of Colombian restaurants. Tip: Take a day trip to Peñón de Guatapé for an epic view over the region and to get to know the colorful town of Guatapé.
How To Get To Medellin: You can fly into José María Córdova International Airport. Stay: Browse Medellin hotel deals here .
Salento & Cocora Valley, Colombia
There are two reasons travelers visit Salento: to see the palm trees in Cocora Valley and the coffee. Cocora Valley is located near Salento, a small town in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region. Colombia’s coffee culture alone makes Salento worth a visit, especially if you’re a coffee lover like myself. You can visit nearby coffee plantations, or fincas , to learn about the coffee-making process. Or simply enjoy a fresh cup of joe at one of the many cafes and restaurants in town. After you’ve had your caffeine fix, head over to Cocora Valley to see the tallest palm trees on earth. You can hike the valley too, with a trail cutting through the tall palms and surrounding cloud forest, characterized by persistent low cloud coverage.
How To Get To Salento: The easiest way to get to Salento is by bus. You can also fly into one of the nearby airports in Pereira (PEI) or Armenia (AXM), and then take a bus from there. Stay: Browse Salento hotel deals here .
Tayrona National Park
The most beautiful beaches in Colombia can be found in Tayrona National Park, a lush, tropical park located on the country’s Caribbean coast. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Colombia for its untouched beaches, incredible biodiversity and jungle hikes. The park is definitely a hotspot for adventure travelers and backpackers, as facilities and accommodation in the park are very basic. Those who rough it out say it’s worth it!
How To Get To Tayrona National Park: The best way to get to the park is by bus. Stay: Most people rent a hammock to sleep in or camp on the beach, though cabins are also available . Accommodation is booked on-site.
Best Countries to Visit in South America: Ecuador
Ecuador straddles the equator on South America’s west coast, meaning when you visit, you’re quite literally in the middle of the world. In fact, you can actually visit latitude 0 longitude 0 in Quito, known as Mitad del Mundo . Even more fascinating is the Galapagos Islands, which is so rich in wildlife that it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. The county is much smaller than others on this list, making traveling to several different points of interest a lot easier.
Baños, Ecuador
Baños is Ecuador’s established backpacker town. There’s an adventure around every corner, as well as all the amenities that fit a backpacker’s needs — affordable restaurants, cheap hostels and tons of tour agencies. Zip-lining, rafting, hot springs, the Ecuadorian Amazon and hiking make Baños is the adventure capital of the country. Tip: Make sure to take a swing at the “end of the world” at the Casa del Árbol.
How To Get To Baños: The best way to get to Banos is by bus. Stay: Browse hotel deals in Baños here .
Galapagos, Ecuador
The famous Galapagos Islands have been called a “living museum and showcase of evolution” by Unesco. Their wildly diverse ecosystem has played a significant role in evolutionary science. The remote islands are home to pristine beaches set against a rocky landscape marked by volcanic activity. There you can catch a glimpse of the endangered giant tortoises, dive with whale sharks and eagle rays, snorkel alongside sea lions and hike along volcano craters. The most popular way to visit the islands is via an all-inclusive cruise, though cheaper land-based trips without a tour are also possible.
How To Get To The Galapagos: First, you’ll fly into either Quito or Guayaquil. Then, you can fly to Baltra Island before taking a bus and ferry ride to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, the most popular tourist hub. You can also fly into the capital of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island, but most cruises start in Santa Cruz. Stay: Browse hotel deals in the Galapagos .
Quito, Ecuador
While not as high as La Paz, at 2,700 meters (9,000 feet) above sea level Quito is also among the highest capital cities in the world. Located in the midst of the beautiful Andes mountains, Quito has the largest and most well preserved historic center in Latin America. It’s also home to the “Middle of the World,” or 0 latitude 0 longitude. From learning about the country’s vibrant history and culture to riding a sky-high gondola up a volcano — and then hiking it — Quito offers a number of exciting adventures.
Read more: Hiking Rucu Pichincha in Quito
How To Get To Quito: You can fly into Mariscal Sucre International Airport, the main gateway into Ecuador. Stay: Browse hotel deals in Quito here .
Best Places To Visit in South America: Peru
Peru is a massive country with countless incredible places to visit. While Machu Picchu gains most of the attention, historic, culture-rich cities like Lima and Cuzco are just as worthy of a visit. Consider adding these other destinations to your Peru bucket list, along with the famed Incan citadel in the clouds.
Cuzco, Peru
Machu Picchu isn’t the only reason to visit Peru. Odds are you’ll spend at least a couple of days in Cuzco on your way out there, which gives you just enough time to explore the charming mountain town. Cuzco is an architectural gem, with many of its buildings displaying the Inca’s seemingly perfect construction techniques. Cuzco serves as the main gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, though it also has its fair share of delicious Peruvian restaurants and eclectic artisan markets.
Read more: Traveling From La Paz To Cuzco By Bus
How To Get To Cuzco: You can fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport or arrive by bus . Stay: Browse hotel deals in Cuzco here .
Huacachina, Peru
Huacachina is a literal oasis in the middle of the Peruvian desert. Anchored by a green lagoon surrounded by palm trees, the town is a popular stop on longer travel itineraries through the country. You can now find hotels, restaurants and bars along the lagoon’s shores.
How To Get To Huacachina: The best way to get to Huacachina is via the Peru Hop private bus service. Stay: Browse hotel deals in Huacachina here .
Lima is one of the largest cities in South America, and one of the most fun to eat and drink your way through. The restaurant scene in Lima is absolutely fantastic, so much so that it’s been repeatedly ranked among the top food cities in the world. Wander through its historic center, surf the rocky coastline and eat all the ceviche imaginable.
How To Get To Lima: You can fly into Jorge Chavez International Airport. Stay: Browse hotel deals in Lima here .
Machu Picchu, Peru
The magnificent Incan citadel hidden deep inside the Andes Mountains rightfully attracts millions of visitors every year. Aside from its extraordinarily beautiful location, Machu Picchu is one of the greatest architectural feats known to man. It’s the most significant piece of history tied to the mystifying Inca civilization. Plus, the journey to get there is an adventure in and of itself , with everything from multi-day hikes to luxury glass-domed trains available.
How To Get To Machu Picchu: The only way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a train or hike to Aguas Calientes, the city at the bse of Machu Picchu. Stay: Browse hotel deals in Machu Picchu here .
The Sacred Valley, Peru
The Sacred Valley is home to the mountain village of Ollantaytambo, where the Inca trail begins to Machu Picchu. Mountainside Incan ruins tower over Ollantaytambo, and they’re open for exploration. Several hiking trails lead deep into the Andes, where you’ll find more forgotten ruins, sweeping views of the valley and gigantic snow-capped mountain peaks.
How To Get To The Sacred Valley: The only way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a train or hike to Aguas Calientes. Stay: Browse hotel deals in The Sacred Valley here .
There you have it: The very best countries to visit in South America, and where to go in each.
Now tell me, which one is the first on your list?
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February 24, 2021 at 12:09 pm
cant wait to get out there again…. looking for some travel bargains…
March 6, 2021 at 8:00 am
Ah there are so many amazing destinations on this list! Definitely pinning this for future trips. Bolivia is top of my list, plus I’m also hoping to visit Brazil later this year 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
March 9, 2021 at 7:18 am
Glad you liked it! I would love to go back to Bolivia!
March 6, 2021 at 8:58 am
Beautiful photos! I have never been to South America yet, and I would love to explore that part of the world. It also seems to be the perfect opportunity to practise my Spanish!
Oh yes, you’d definitely get good practice!
March 6, 2021 at 11:23 am
I still need to visit South America so I really enjoyed reading your guide. Great tips on where to visit!
So glad to hear that! It’s such an incredible continent!
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Best Places to Visit in South America: 30 Unmissable Destinations
Ready to discover the best places to visit in South America? From the colourful Rainbow Mountain of Peru to the glacier-filled landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park, these are the destinations you NEED to add to your bucket list.
How do I sum up a place like South America? The easiest way would be to speak in superlatives – the varied landscape is filled with the highest, the driest, the deepest, the rarest…
Okay, I think you get it.
Whether you’re dreaming of a trip ogling some of the most iconic South American landmarks (Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls, and Nazca Lines, I’m talking about you) or you fancy immersing yourself in the culture of places like Cusco and Quito, this continent truly has something to offer every kind of traveller.
Ready to discover the best places to visit in South America? Read on for my top picks…
Best Places to Travel in South America
Rio de janeiro, brazil.
When it comes to vibrant cities, South America boasts some of the best. And you don’t have to look any further than Rio de Janeiro for evidence of this.
Considering what the city has to offer, it is also unsurprising that it’s one of the most visited.
Iconic attractions? Tick. Look no further than the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain for those. Plus, it also has the top-rated beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana.
And sprinkled between all of these, you’ll find everything from luxury hotels to charming little cafes.
Machu Picchu, Peru
One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu hardly needs an introduction.
As one of the most-visited sites in South America, the Inca ruins provide a deeply fascinating glimpse into indigenous South American culture and heritage.
However, that’s not the only glimpse you’ll get here. At an elevation of 7,700 feet, when visiting Machu Picchu , you’ll also encounter out-of-this-world views of the surrounding mountains.
There is a limit on the daily number of tourists permitted, but that doesn’t mean you’ll easily avoid crowds at Machu Picchu .
Cusco, Peru
The city of Cusco is so much more than just a list of things to do (although they are pretty incredible).
With its rich and colourful historic past, the city in Peru, located at an elevation of 11,000 feet within the Andes Mountains, was once the capital city of the Inca Empire.
However, during the 16th century, the Spanish invasion decimated the Incas and the city of Cusco.
Today, the city is known as the historical capital of Peru , with many Incan ruins visible in the surrounding areas. At the same time, the Spanish colonial heritage reigns supreme within the Old Town of Cusco.
Medellín, Colombia
As one of the best places to travel in South America – but seriously underrated, in my eyes – the city of Medellín showcases some of the best things to do in Colombia .
With a vibrant nightlife and a thriving community of international travellers, the town is ideal for digital nomads and those seeking a livelier trip.
Beyond that, the city is also home to the captivating rock of Guatape, so those of you looking for some natural beauty won’t leave feeling disappointed. However, for anyone yearning for some urban exploring, the city brims with world-class malls, outdoor spaces, and the infamous Comuna 13.
The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Fascinated by prehistoric animals? Eager for some natural beauty? Looking for the next entry in your South American tourist attractions list? If you answered yes to any of those, heading to the Galápagos Islands is your next adventure.
Here you’ll find a collection of wildlife that redefines expectations. From giant tortoises to fear-inducing iguanas, these beasts were the impetus for Charles Darwin’s iconic book, On the Origin of Species .
Now with a calling card like that, the 18-island archipelago, formed by volcanic action, is a must for your South American bucket list .
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Wondering where to go in South America? Look no further than the Torres del Paine National Park.
It sits within the furthest reaches of Chilean Patagonia and is home to the unique (and challenging) W Trek , but it’s so much more than that.
With the three peaks of the Paine Mountains dominating the landscape, it’s a visual treat for any brave explorer. But beyond its mountains, the park features numerous glaciers, rivers, forests, and endangered wildlife.
And if you’re an outdoors enthusiast, camping in Torres del Paine is an experience second to none.
Sitting at the southernmost tip of South America, the region of Patagonia splits itself between Chile and Argentina. With its kaleidoscopic collection of landscapes, it’s one of (if not the ) must-see places in South America.
Yes, the striking views and captivating landscapes are enough to take your breath away, but save some air for the best national parks in Patagonia . These hold icy glaciers, eye-catching lakes, and rivers, making them nature lovers’ nirvana.
Oh, and did I mention wildlife? I mean, Tierra del Fuego has those stunning landscapes and penguins to boot.
Cartagena, Colombia
The city of Cartagena in Colombia manages to do a few things other cities can’t.
Okay, beyond being one of the top places to visit in South America, this coastal gem boasts a specific culture distinctly different from other similar cities like Medellín in the Antioquia region.
Although it is a historical city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cartagena emanates a unique touristy vibe. Immerse yourself within the poppin’ nightlife in its old city, while just beyond its city borders lie some of the best beaches and offshore islands around.
São Paulo, Brazil
A genuinely diverse city, São Paulo brandishes an international flavour well represented within its cuisine and cultural activities.
In fact, the culinary scene within the city makes it one of the best places in South America to visit. With an irresistible mix of European, Middle-Eastern, and Asian flavours, it’s foodie heaven.
If you’re after a more culture-centric trip, São Paulo also has that covered. Standouts include the British Culture Centre, Germany’s Goethe Institute, and Spain’s Instituto Cervantes. And for an authentic taste of its celebration of diversity, head to the Museum of Sexual Diversity.
Read Next: Incredible Things to do in Brazil
Atacama Desert, Chile
As far as South American travel destinations go, few are as unique as the Atacama Desert .
Don’t believe me? Well, wrap your head around this. It’s the driest non-polar desert in the world, and it only rains maybe once every four years (yes, four). It’s also not small, at about 1,000 miles from end to end.
With a size like that, it’s no surprise that there are some incredible things to do in the Atacama.
Perhaps you’d like to hike up Cerro Toco , heading to the summit of a dormant volcano? Or maybe you just want to admire its vast salt flats, active geysers, or intense blue lagoons.
Read Next: Unmissable Things to do in the Atacama Desert
Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil
So, get this. An infinite sea of white sand dunes separated by small lagoons of rainwater that change shape depending on wind direction. Sounds almost unreal, doesn’t it?
Welcome to Lençóis Maranhenses, a captivating natural paradise in Brazil’s Maranhão state.
This is the ticket if you’re looking for a cool place to visit in South America. It’s a landscape of rare phenomena thanks to abundant rainfall that ceases from March to June, resulting in picturesque white sand sheets and deep blue lagoons.
While there are many noteworthy things to see in Lima , there are a few reasons it’s one of the best places in South America to visit.
Beyond having a really cool origin name, Ciudad de Los Reyes (City of the Kings), it’s a spectacular blend of a bustling metropolis and historical highlights.
And while that’s already reason enough to visit, a food tour of Lima is a must if you’re after some of the best cuisines on the continent. Whether you’re in the mood for anticucho from a street vendor, the best ceviche you’ve ever had, or a ten-course Andean tasting menu, you’ll find it all in Lima.
Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Considered a holy site in Peru, Rainbow Mountain is relatively new regarding buzzworthy South American destinations.
What do I mean? Well, until very recently (although no one is sure when), thick layers of ice covered the region. As the ice melted, the mountain appeared, displaying various colours.
And not just a blend of colours. These cascade down the mountain in yellow, green, red, and purple hues. Today, it’s the second-most-visited attraction in the country, so read my guide on how to visit Rainbow Mountain and get packing your bags.
Iguazu Falls (Brazil & Argentina)
One of the best destinations in South America is the glorious Iguazu Falls ( Cataratas del Iguazú in Spanish or Foz do Iguaçu in Portuguese).
Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, few waterfalls come close to the gloriously beautiful Iguazu Falls. That’s partly because it is not just one waterfall, but actually, 275 individual falls.
Naturally dividing the Iguazu River into an upper and lower area, the falls sit within two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In Brazil, they lie within the Iguaçu National Park, and in Argentina, they lie within the Iguazu National Park.
While both sides have walkways to help you view the falls, Devil’s Throat is the most prominent and noteworthy on the Argentinian side.
Salta, Argentina
Situated at the foothills of the Andes in the northwest of Argentina, you’ll find the elegant and leafy city of Salta . If you’re after a scene-stealing look into the Andean culture while in the country, this city reigns supreme as an Argentinian landmark .
Here you’ll find neoclassical architecture that nods to Salta’s colonial past, while the city’s atmosphere and vibe are distinctly Andean.
It’s easy to have yourself swept up by the music from local peñas, but exploring its museums or heading out on a horse riding adventure in Salta is a must.
Baños, Ecuador
It’s almost whimsical that a continent with so many bustling cities and buzzworthy attractions has its fair share of mystical little towns. And Baños in Ecuador is precisely that.
Sitting at the base of the Tungurahua volcano amidst majestic waterfalls, this town holds the nickname “Gateway to the Amazon”.
Here, you can indulge in many activities beyond heading into the Amazon. What more could you want — from mountain biking from Baños to Punyo, soaking in stunning hot springs, or horseback riding along Andean hills?
How about stealing a seat at the Swing at the End of the World in Casa de Arbol? Thought so.
Easter Island, Chile
As far as cool places in South America go, Easter Island takes first prize. One of the world’s most remote islands, this mysterious standout off the coast of Chile is best known for its collection of centuries-old Moai.
What on Earth is a moai? I’m glad you asked. Have you ever seen the pictures of those giant stone statues overlooking the ocean? Or, maybe you recognise the emoji – well, those are moai.
And while most find them mysterious and shrouded in secrecy, they represent the dramatic history of one of the world’s most secluded Polynesian cultures.
Lake Titicaca (Bolivia & Peru)
From the shores of Lake Titicaca, it’s pretty believable that Andean legend viewed it as the sun’s birthplace (like the actual sun). As the largest high-altitude body of water on the planet, it sits at an elevation of 12,500 feet and straddles the border between Bolivia and Peru.
Its sapphire-blue waters and a surrounding ring of ice-speckled mountains genuinely give off a mystical vibe. While it is the highest and most navigable lake in the world, it’s from Peru, where you can take a boat trip to Puno.
Here you’ll face dozens of floating islands constructed from reeds by the indigenous Uros.
Salvador, Brazil
The city of Salvador da Bahia, also locally known as just Salvador, has more than a few attractive elements to it (and reasons to visit).
Firstly, it’s one of the oldest colonial cities in America, as the Spanish founded it in 1548. Traces of this past still linger here, most noticeably in Pelourinho, named after a whipping post during the slave trade.
Beyond that, it’s the third-largest city in Brazil and was the first slave port in the Americas, and you can find traces of African heritage throughout. These are especially evident in the cuisine.
Oh, one last thing. Salvador is also a notorious party city, hosting the lively annual Carnival. This is an epic time to visit if you can stand the crowds.
Montevideo, Uruguay
Another entry into the list of best places to travel in South America is the city of Montevideo in Uruguay. And don’t just go there because it’s the country’s capital city; so much is hidden within its streets awaiting exploration.
It’s a very laid-back city, as evident from the casual atmosphere the city exudes. To immerse yourself in this, stroll along the promenade, which connects the city’s beaches. Or head to Ciudad Vieja, where you’ll find many of Montevideo’s monuments, museums, and markets.
Calafate, Argentina
You could say that El Calafate, Argentina , is the ideal starting point for any excursion into Patagonia. And while you’d be correct, this top destination in South America is that and a lot more.
How does exploring the 13.7-mile loop trail to Upsala Glacier Viewpoint or marvelling at glaciers from the Perito Moreno Boardwalk sound?
Pardon the pun, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The city of El Calafate finds itself surrounded with such immense natural beauty that it’s impossible to run through everything here.
Highlights include heading to the La Leona Petrified Forest, and hiking Cascada de Los Perros.
Ushuaia, Argentina
In the mood for something a bit off the beaten path? Well, the remote city of Ushuaia in Argentina should make your bucket list then. This is the capital of Tierra del Fuego, and it’s considered by most to be the southernmost city in the world. And as the last stop on the train to the End of the World, it is precisely that.
Nestled between mountains along a picturesque bay, it’s visually appealing (when it’s not cloudy, that is).
Although there’s not much going on here, there is a museum dedicated to the city’s colonial history and plenty of wildlife spotting chances. This is the spot if you want to see penguins, orca whales, and seals.
Amazon Rainforest
Okay, no surprise here, but the Amazon Rainforest is a no-brainer place to visit in South America.
Home to a vast (that’s a bit of an understatement) ecosystem that includes more than 40,000 tropical plant species, it also boasts some of the rarest animals in the world, like pink dolphins.
It’s the world’s largest rainforest; you can explore it on foot or by boat. It has many popular entry points, including Manaus in Brazil, Coca in Ecuador, Rurrenabaque in Bolivia, and Iquitos in Peru.
You can even stay in a magical jungle lodge nestled in the furthest reaches of the forest. How’s that for an epic South American itinerary ?
Angel Falls, Venezuela
Toss everything you think you know about the highest uninterrupted waterfall in the world right out the window. I bet you thought it was Niagara Falls.
I’ve got news for you. That title actually belongs to Angel Falls, the showstopping 3,200-foot waterfall in Venezuela’s Guayana Highlands.
It’s 15 times higher than Niagara Falls and cascades down the Auyantepui Mountain into the Rio Kerepakupai Meru river. But why call it Angel Falls? Well, that’s thanks to American pilot Jimmy Angel, the first pilot to fly over the falls in 1937.
Nazca Lines, Peru
If you’ve ever watched any documentary on ancient mystery sites worldwide, chances are you’ve seen the Nazca Lines. This intriguing collection of geometric patterns and symbols dominates the desert landscape between the Inca and Nazca Valleys.
Although the purpose of these lines remains a mystery today, those who can’t tame their curiosity should plan a visit. With various plant and animal figures clustered together in one area and massive geoglyphs stretching for 37 miles, it’s the stuff of legend and worth a trip.
Bolivia Salt Flats, Bolivia
I think it’s obvious by now that South America is not ashamed of showcasing breathtaking natural landscapes. And if it’s not, let’s keep the ball rolling with the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia . And if you’re wondering when to visit Bolivia’s salt flats , stick around.
Seemingly stretching far beyond the horizon during the dry season, the blinding white plains are pretty impressive.
But what about during the rainy season? Every year, quite a spectacle occurs as the salt flats transform into the world’s largest mirror thanks to continuous rainfall. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best places to visit in Bolivia .
Quito, Ecuador
The capital of Ecuador, Quito, sits quite uniquely amongst world capitals. As the highest capital city in the world, it’s also the one closest to the equator.
The Spanish founded the city in 1534, and the Old Town of Quito is one of the best-preserved, least changed, and most prominent in the Americas.
The city’s historic value is second to none, as are the natural landscapes surrounding it. Located in the northern highlands of Ecuador, the city has numerous volcanoes that encircle it, making it one of the capital cities in the world under constant volcanic threat.
El Chalten, Argentina
So, you’ve come to Patagonia, wondering where to start exploring this almost ethereal South American destination. Trust me, you’re not the first and won’t be the last.
Let me be the first to direct you to the charming little town of El Chalten.
This is a quintessential adventure town where it’s easy to walk directly from your hotel onto any of the numerous hiking trails without even noticing it. It sits within the Los Glaciares National Park and showcases terrific views, enticing hikes, and abundant outdoor activity.
You’re in the right place if you’re here for adventure, photography, or thrill-seeking.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Easily one of the best places to go in South America, the city of Buenos Aires is a cosmopolitan love affair filled with culture and history. Whether you spend 3 days in Buenos Aires or 3 months, there is always more to discover and enjoy.
It’s got everything you’d expect from a city with roughly 17 million inhabitants—an endless list of tourist attractions , fabulous beaches in and around it , and stunning cultural landmarks.
A must-visit in the city is the residential neighbourhood of Recoleta. The Recoleta Cemetery is famous worldwide as Eva Peron’s burial site.
La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz in Bolivia is a quintessential sky-high city in a canyon formed by the mesmerising Choqueyapu River. While other cities pride themselves on their laid-back appeal, La Paz boasts an energetic, adventure-filled landscape perfectly aimed at tourists.
It is a cacophony of activity, noise, and an urban jungle akin to none. Cobblestone streets transform into paved concrete highways; modern hotels blend with colonial architecture, and quiet plazas battle bustling markets.
Beyond that, it’s home to striking ancient ruins, epic museums, picturesque cathedrals, and a subway in the sky.
Read Next: Incredible Places to Visit in Bolivia
Practical Tips for Exploring the Best Places in South America
One of the most essential tips to keep in mind when travelling to South America is always to have safety at the forefront of your trip. This comes into play within its cities and in its outdoor landscapes. Mind your surroundings if you’re heading into the urban jungles of Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires. If you’re out and about exploring Torres del Paine, heed safety instructions and warnings.
When travelling between countries, always make sure you know what visa requirements are in place. There’s nothing as frustrating as visa issues when trying to enjoy a waterfall.
Places in South America: Map
Planning a South America Trip? Read These Articles Next…
- 12 Famous South American Landmarks You NEED to Visit
- A Killer 2-Week South America Itinerary
- Planning Your Trip to Machu Picchu Made Easy
- What to do in Bolivia
- Awesome Places to Visit in Argentina
- Incredible Landmarks in Brazil
- When’s the Best Time to Visit the Bolivia Salt Flats?
- 8 Brilliant National Parks in Patagonia
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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.
Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.
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South America is a vibrant continent replete with natural wonders, exciting cultures, and fascinating history. Here are the 25 best places to visit in this stunning region:
1. Machu Picchu, Peru – The ancient Incan ruins offer a glimpse into a past civilization amidst the breathtaking Andes.
2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Known for its iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, beautiful beaches like Copacabana, and the exuberant Carnival festival.
3. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – A dream for wildlife lovers, offering unique species and pristine nature.
4. Buenos Aires, Argentina – Experience tango, Argentine cuisine, and vibrant neighborhoods like Palermo and La Boca.
5. Cartagena, Colombia – A historic city with colorful buildings, colonial architecture, and beautiful Caribbean beaches.
6. Patagonia, Chile & Argentina – A remote region known for dramatic mountain peaks, glaciers, and untamed wilderness.
7. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia – The world’s largest salt flat creates a mirror-like effect that’s otherworldly during the rainy season.
8. Amazon Rainforest – Spanning multiple countries, it’s a biodiversity hotspot that’s home to countless species of flora and fauna.
9. Angel Falls, Venezuela – The world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall is set in an isolated jungle landscape.
10. Lake Titicaca, Peru & Bolivia – As South America’s largest lake it holds significant cultural importance with floating islands and ancient ruins.
11. Iguazu Falls, Argentina & Brazil – One of the most spectacular waterfall systems in the world located at the border between these two countries.
12. Cusco, Peru – Once the capital of the Incan Empire; now a beautiful blend of Inca and Spanish colonial heritage.
13. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile – A rugged region popular among hikers for its landscapes that include mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers.
14. Salvador de Bahia, Brazil – With African influences on its culture, particularly in music and cuisine; it’s also known for its Portuguese colonial architecture.
15. San Pedro de Atacama, Chile – A desert oasis that acts as a gateway to geological wonders like geysers and salt lakes.
16. Easter Island, Chile – Mysterious Moai statues dot this remote volcanic island thousands of miles off the mainland coast.
17. Medellín, Colombia – Once notorious now notable for innovative urbanism and renewal; visit Comuna 13 or explore coffee country nearby.
18. Bariloche, Argentina – Reminiscent of Switzerland with its alpine architecture and chocolate shops; great for hiking or skiing depending on season.
19. Quito Ecuador – The world’s second-highest capital city delights with an old town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
20. Pantanal Wetlands Brazil
21:.Iguazú Falls Argentina/Brazil
22. Los Glaciares Argentina
23. Fernando de Noronha Brazil
24.Valparaiso
25. Cotopaxi National Park
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Best things to do in Rio de Janeiro
Carnival samba and sugarloaf mountain, copacabana beach and jungle hikes -for natural beauty with urban verve, rio can’t be beat.
S queezed between beautiful bays, forest-swathed mountains and ready to party 24/7, Rio de Janeiro is where sizzling South American city life meets the continent’s loveliest coastal landscapes. God made the world in six days, say the local Cariocas — and spent the seventh sipping coconuts on the sand in Ipanema. Given the whole world to choose from, where else would he go? Rio life is eternal play: surfing the bottle-green ocean, playing beach football and hiking to plunging waterfalls by day; slipping into something sleek for caipirinha cocktails and samba-fuelled clubbing by night.
Main photo: visitors in Rio’s Santa Teresa district (Getty Images)
1. Join the carnival
Rio’s Mardi Gras carnival is one of the greatest shows on Earth, so don’t settle for sitting and watching. Slip into a sequin jumpsuit and shimmy through the Sambadrome in front of 80,000 spectators and then continue the revelry in the bloco street parties and carnival balls. But book well ahead — those Sambadrome tickets and carnival balls sell out months in advance.
2. Stay in arty hotels
Snazzy, sustainable and sophisticated, Janeiro Hotel is the city’s hippest new hangout. The passion project of Brazilian fashion designer Oskar Metsavaht — owner of Osklen, Brazil’s Ralph Lauren — it’s a glacial, 51-room slab, decked out in marble and glass, with slatted-wood screens and porthole windows. Gaze out at the beach bods on Leblon’s golden sand, or dip in the minimalist 19th-floor pool.
3. Explore the hip ’hoods
Mingle with the locals in Botafogo, Rio’s up-and-coming neighbourhood home of the city’s coolest start-ups. Browse the boho street fashion at Belchior Brecho and the hippy-chic denims and scents at Sanctuario or down Santa Catarina oysters and South-Brazilian Don Guerino prosecco at Canastra Rose. Book into urban, uber-cool YOO2 for the best beds (and cocktails) with a view — the hotel’s rooftop bar and Bossa N’ Sugar suite overlook Sugarloaf and the Christ the Redeemer statue. Clamber the cobbled streets of Rio’s Montmartre, Santa Teresa — they’re littered with arty boteco bars and boutiques. And sample Brazilian petisco tapas with Rio’s young, rich and intellectual in Gavea, a neighbourhood huddled under the feet of the Christ.
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4. Take in the views
Yes, the sight of Rio spread at your feet from the tourist-packed cable cars that ride to the summit of Sugarloaf is spectacular, but the best views of the city’s beaches, bays and boulder mountains are from the water. Book a three-hour late afternoon cruise on a 12m yacht to take in Rio’s panorama while sunbathing and sipping caipirinhas. You’ll drift past Sugarloaf and the huge Portuguese forts that crouch over Guanabara Bay, and you’ll see the best of the beaches — from Copacabana to Icarai — where Oscar Niemeyer’s modern art museum sits sentinel over a half-moon strand of pearl white sand.
5. People-watch on Ipanema Beach
While sun-drenched sand and crystal-clear waters are an inevitable part of Brazil’s beach scene, Ipanema is worth a visit just as much for its beach credentials as it is its diversity. It’s separated by lifeguard posts which mark off a range of subcultures, with sections for hippies, artists, surfers and beyond.
6. Go green at Jardim Botanico
Boasting more than 8,000 plant species, Jardim Botanico’s botanic gardens are definitely worth a visit. Highlights include the orquidário with 600 species of orchids and a lake filled with giant waterlilies.
7. Appreciate the architecture
Avoid the heat of the middle of the day and indulge in architecture and interiors — Rio has some of the best in Brazil, from the concrete-and-glass MAM modern art gallery to the gold-laced church of Sao Francisco da Penitencia, birthplace of Brazilian Rococo. Don’t miss Santiago Calatrava’s Museum of Tomorrow, parked like a spaceship on the edge of the shimmering Guanabara Bay.
8. Go for a hike
Time to spare? Cariocas don’t work out for those beautiful bodies — they get out. Join them hiking through one of the world’s oldest national parks — the Tijuca forest, which swathes the hills of central Rio, from the Christ statue to the southern beaches of Barra da Tijuca. There are fabulous views at every turn from the Pedra da Gavea monolith to the Vista Chinesa lookout and in the forest you’ll see toucans, capuchin monkeys and kitten-sized marmosets.
9. Try traditional dishes
Tropical fruit juices and açaí sorbets are a pre-breakfast ritual for Cariocas. Order a milky cacau juice (made from the fruit of the chocolate plant) at Bibi, or stop off at one of the glistening art deco kiosks along Ipanema or Copacabana beaches for a freshly cracked, ice-cold coconut.
10. Fill up your plate with sushi
Sushi? In Brazil? Absolutely: there’s a bigger Japanese community here than anywhere outside Japan and Cariocas give sushi a shot of South American verve, with local ingredients such as Amazonian river fish (try Sushi Leblon).
Rio’s weekend-roast equivalent is feijoada — a meaty bean stew eaten for Saturday lunch (try Casa da Feijoada). On weeknights, the city books into churrascaria spit-grills to tuck into world-beating steaks. Skip the fillet — the cut of choice is loin, or picanha; best eaten at Giuseppe Grill, just off Leblon Beach.
11. Dance with the locals
Join Rio’s samba set in the cobbled streets of Lapa, the place to party. The upbeat, infectiously dancey live bands at low-lit samba spots such as Rio Scenarium and Carioca da Gema have even the shy rushing to the dancefloor at the weekends. Skip between them via jazz bars and clubs — fuelled by pitanga-berry Caipirinhas.
12. Visit the Emerald Coast
South of Rio, the beaches extend wild and unspoilt all the way into distant Sao Paulo state, dropping in rainforest-swathed ridges to a bottle-green ocean. This is the Emerald Coast — speckled with whitewash and cobblestone colonial villages like Paraty, and dotted with mountainous islands. The largest is Ilha Grande: a rainforest-covered ridgetop twice the size of Jersey, fringed with wild beaches. There are no roads on the island and just a single village, Abraao. From there, take a three-hour hike through parrot-filled forest, over ridges, across half-moon bays to Lopes Mendes — a wild sweep of pristine, honey-coloured sand.
13. Take the ultimate Rio selfie at Telegraph Rock
Sugarloaf and the Christ statue on Corcovado mountain are unmissable, but Cariocas take their selfies at Telegraph Rock — a boulder jutting out over a view of endless golden bays, framed by rainforest and an island-sprinkled Atlantic. The rock is easy to reach on an hour-long hike from Barra da Guaratiba village in Rio’s far south. You’ll see monkeys and hummingbirds in the forest on the way there and afterwards you can swim or bodysurf the ocean on Praia do Grumari — where the forest meets the ocean in a long, golden strand. The beach is like Ipanema as it was before buildings and roads — it’s one of Rio’s best kept secrets.
14. See in the New Year on Copacabana Beach
Rio’s biggest party after carnival is Reveillon — a high energy, tropical Hogmanay which sees millions of revellers pack the city’s beaches. Brazilian and international bands play from huge sound stages on Copacabana, locals dance samba in the streets of Ipanema, and midnight comes with a spectacular firework show over the Atlantic and Guanabara Bay, silhouetting Sugarloaf in a cascade of light. The best way to enjoy it is to book a room in one of the city’s beach tower hotels, such as the recently renovated Copacabana Hilton, whose rooftop pool bar has the best beach view in Rio.
15. Play football the Brazilian way
Football is as much a way of life in Rio as samba and sunbathing. Learn how to play it the Brazilian way with private beach football classes with Pelé da Praia . He’ll teach you keepie-uppie, banana shots and elasticos. You can try out your new skills with a beach football game on Ipanema, and then see how the professionals do it in the giant Maracanã stadium, the temple of the South American game. Arrive early to see the trophy-stuffed football museum, where Pelé, Ronaldo and Romario’s feet are preserved in concrete and panels tell the story of Brazilian soccer, from its arrival in Rio with Scotsman Thomas Donohue in 1894.
16. Hang-glide or helicopter over Rio
Rio’s landscape is so gorgeous it’s been protected as a world heritage site. Get a bird’s eye view of the Redeemer, Sugarloaf and the city’s myriad forest-covered, boulder mountains with a helicopter tour. Flights leave from Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon, behind Ipanema or the top of Sugarloaf, flying the full length of Ipanema and Copacabana, swooping over Guanabara Bay and hovering behind the outstretched arms of Christ. Or for a bigger adrenaline rush, drop from the summit of Pedra Bonita rock on a tandem hang-glider and drift over the city before skidding to a stop on Sao Conrado beach.
17. Watch for wildlife
Want wildlife? Visit Itatiaia National Park, a couple of hours’ drive west of Rio. You can explore a jaguar-filled, mountainous cloud forest on walks to waterfalls, or even brave the breathy trek to Black Needle peak — one of the highest points in Southern Brazil. Itatiaia’s jungles are home to the world’s greatest numbers of endemic birds: iridescent emerald hummingbirds, bright-orange tanagers, keel-billed toucans and clouds of raucous parrots. There are dozens of comfortable rustic-chic lodges where you can lounge in the sun or soak in a pool with the forest at your feet.
18. Learn to surf
Rio is one of South America’s surf capitals with pro championships held on the Barra da Tijuca beaches in the city’s far south. Beginner’s classes start on the placid Marapendi Lagoon, then you’re off to ride the ocean waves. Or you can take paddleboard classes, coasting along Barra’s lake-calm backwaters, past mangrove swamps before braving the open Atlantic with a row out to the reef-fringed Tijuca islands — a kilometre offshore.
Additional reporting by Alexander Robinson
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32 Best Places To Visit In South America – In 12 Countries!
Are you planning your itinerary to one of the planet’s most awesome continents with 12 unique countries? Here’s an overview of the best places to visit in South America.
Consists of 12 countries, each uniquely blessed with breathtaking geographies, fascinating histories, and diverse cultures, it’s hard to choose from the endless things to do and the must-visit places in South America.
440 million people. 17.8 million square kilometers. 17,500 kinds of wildlife and 118,308 plant species. Superlatives will describe South America, Earth’s fourth largest continent and the most biologically diverse place; also home to the world’s highest capital city, largest rainforest, longest mountain range system, largest salt flat, and driest desert.
If you are planning a trip throughout the continent, check out this list of 32 top South American destinations that await you—from beach paradises, cool party towns, colorful festivals, and outdoor adventures to awe-inspiring sights.
Table of Contents
Best Places To Visit in South America – Argentina
Argentina is one of the most diverse and unique countries in South America. From the bustling city streets to the breathtaking natural wonders of Patagonia and the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, Argentina offers a rich tapestry of experiences for all types of explorers.
1. El Chalten
El Chalten is the first on our list of best places to visit in Argentina . It is also known as the trekking capital of Patagonia and offers plenty of things to explore in Patagonia .
Multiple different rewarding treks allow you to get breathtaking views of Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de Los Tres , making it an ideal destination for those seeking unforgettable adventures in the heart of Patagonia.
2. Perito Moreno Glacier
Perito Moreno Glacier is located in Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. The park is located in the Patagonia region and has an area of around 97 square miles (250 square kilometers).
The best way to experience the glacier is by getting on the walkways that will give you a stunning view of the huge pieces of ice. If you want to see the Perito Moreno glacier, try the full-day Big Ice Trek from El Calafate. With an expert guide, you will ride a boat to cruise Lago Argentino and experience this wonderful place.
3. Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls is one of the most stunning sights in Argentina. The phenomenon of 275 different falls or cataracts in the same place is a sight to behold. The thundering and crashing sound of water around you will keep your excitement high.
The forest surrounding the falls is home to many indigenous birds and mammals, which you can spot on your way to the top.
4. Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a metropolitan city with electric nightlife. It is also known as the Paris of South America. Plenty of museums, theaters, and galleries are just around the corner.
The architecture and street art will also grab your attention. The colorful streets of La Boca, with amazing street food, are some of the many entertainment options in Buenos Aires.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Bolivia
5. lake titicaca.
Situated on the shores of Bolivia Lake, Copacabana is a popular starting point for exploring the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca. It offers stunning views of the lake and access to various attractions, such as the popular Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) and Isla de la Luna (Island of the Moon), which are known for their archaeological sites and scenic landscapes.
Lake Titicaca is the highest lake in the world, at 12,506 feet (3,812 meters) above sea level. The beauty of the lake, combined with stunning views of the nearby mountains, is enough to keep you enthralled and glued to the view for a long time.
6. Salar de Uyuni, Salt Flats
Salar de Uyuni , also known as the Salt Flats , is a unique and otherworldly natural wonder in southwest Bolivia. Its vast expanse of dazzling white salt sets it apart, stretching as far as the eye can see.
The salt flats cover over 4,000 square miles (10,000 square kilometers) and are the largest salt flats in the world. During the rainy season, a thin layer of water covers the flats, creating a stunning mirror effect that reflects the sky, creating an illusion of an infinite expanse merging with the heavens.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Brazil
7. salvador da bahia.
Salvador is the capital of Bahia state in the Northeast region of Brazil. The city is quite famous for its cuisine, architecture, and music.
Most people visit this place to explore various churches and forts. It is an ideal place to visit for people trying to learn about Brazilian history.
8. Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro , a city blessed with amazing views of tropical forests and golden sand beaches, is a must-visit.
The beaches have a unique charm, and you can play volleyball and many other games. Copacabana Beach and Ipanema should be at the top of your list of beaches to visit.
Join this Rio de Janeiro tour for a day to visit some of the best places in the city, like the Corcovado (Christ the Redeemer), Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
9. The Amazon Jungle
The Amazon Jungle is home to more than 40,000 plant species. The best place to start a tour of this place is Manaus , the capital of the Brazilian Amazon. The cities in the Amazon cannot be accessed by road, so the only transportation option you can use is a plane.
Once there, take a slow boat on the Amazon River to spot different animals.
10. Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande , located off the coast of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, is a captivating paradise that mesmerizes visitors with its untouched natural beauty and rich historical significance. This island retreat, encompassed by lush rainforests and pristine beaches, offers an idyllic escape from bustling city life.
Its stunning landscapes, including Pico do Papagaio , a towering peak, and Lopes Mendes Beach, renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, attract nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. But Ilha Grande is more than just a picturesque haven; it also holds a haunting past as a former prison colony.
The remnants of the prison complex, along with the surrounding protected forests, serve as a poignant reminder of the island’s dark history. With limited development and abundant outdoor activities, Ilha Grande is a haven for those seeking serenity, adventure, and a glimpse into Brazil’s complex past.
11. Gramado
Nestled in the heart of the Serra Gaúcha region in Brazil, Gramado enchants visitors with its European charm and breathtaking natural landscapes. This quaint town, reminiscent of a Swiss alpine village, captivates tourists with its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and colorful flower displays.
Gramado is famous for its annual Christmas festival , transforming the town into a magical wonderland with dazzling lights and enchanting decorations.
Beyond its fairy-tale atmosphere, Gramado is known for its thriving chocolate industry, offering a delectable array of artisanal chocolates and confections.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Chile
11. easter island .
Easter Island is home to the famous Moai statues. The colorful landscapes and friendly locals will keep you entertained for your trip.
The best time to visit here is in the first 2 weeks of February when the Tapati Festival takes place. The festival continues for about 14 days.
12. Carretera Austral
Carretera Austral, the iconic Southern Highway of Chile, winds its way through the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia , offering an unrivaled adventure for nature enthusiasts. This legendary route takes travelers on a captivating journey through rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and dense forests.
Along the way, stop at Pumalín Park , a pristine nature reserve nestled within Patagonia’s wild heart. Pumalín Park enchants visitors with its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and untouched fjords, providing an immersive experience in the region’s natural wonders.
13. Parque Nacional Torres del Paine
Parque Nacional Torres del Paine , a jewel of Patagonia, beckons adventurers with its awe-inspiring landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders. The park’s rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and vast glaciers create a dramatic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience.
One of the park’s most popular treks is the legendary W Trek , which takes hikers on a 4-5 day journey. This challenging and rewarding trek offers an immersive experience in the heart of Patagonia, allowing hikers to connect with nature and witness the region’s raw beauty up close.
For those seeking a true connection with nature and a chance to explore one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, a visit to Parque Nacional Torres del Paine is an opportunity not to be missed.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Colombia
14. parque nacional tayrona.
Parque Nacional Tayrona is a stunning national park along Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
One of its highlights is Cabo San Juan, a picturesque beach with rugged cliffs, palm trees, and panoramic Caribbean sea views. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring nearby trails to discover hidden beaches.
The park also preserves archaeological sites, providing insights into the ancient Tayrona civilization. Parque Nacional Tayrona, with Cabo San Juan as a standout, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure.
15. Salento
Salento is a captivating destination that coffee enthusiasts adore. It is famous for its exceptional coffee, drawing visitors who are eager to experience the journey of crafting some of the world’s finest brews. Explore the enchanting coffee farms and witness the intricate process behind each cup.
But that’s not all! Embark on a breathtaking hike to Valle de Cocora and be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring vistas of vibrant green landscapes.
Salento is a haven for nature lovers seeking a sensory and visual treat.
16. Cartagena
Cartagena , a city adorned with captivating colonial architecture, is a haven for history enthusiasts and culture aficionados. This walled town, founded in 1533 and steeped in nearly 500 years of history, exudes an old-world charm that transports visitors back in time.
But if you’re craving more adventure, the options abound. Bask in the sun at Playa Blanca beach or immerse yourself in a unique experience at Volcan del Totumo .
Cartagena seamlessly blends the past’s allure with the present’s excitement, making it an irresistible destination for all.
Bogota is the capital of Colombia, located around 8,202 ft (2,500 m) above sea level. Like any other metropolitan city, Bogota has plenty of fascinating sights.
Some of the tourist’s favorite places in the city include La Candelaria, Monserrate, Museo Botero, and Museo del Oro.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Ecuador
18. galapagos islands .
The Galapagos Islands are close to the country of Ecuador . You can spot over 1,000 bird species flying over white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Marine life, such as hammerhead sharks, giant tortoises, sea lions, land and sea turtles, marine iguanas, tropical penguins, and many more, makes the entire experience worthwhile.
19. Quilotoa Loop
Quilotoa Loop is a 3-day long trek that allows hikers to experience Andean villages and the high-altitude scenery of turquoise waters at Laguna Quilotoa.
Embarking on this immersive journey, hikers can immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of the Andean communities dotting the route. The trail winds through picturesque villages, where friendly locals warmly welcome visitors, offering a glimpse into their daily lives and age-old customs.
20. Quito’s Old Town
Quito is the capital of Ecuador, located 9,350 ft (2,850 m) above sea level. The city preserves some of the oldest architecture from the country’s Spanish colonial era.
Grand churches and the city’s central area are the most visited places in the city.
21. Cuenca
Cuenca , another Ecuadorian city with exquisite architecture, is around 8,400 ft (2,560 m) above sea level. Some popular sites to visit are Ingapirca’s historic ruins and Turi.
A free walking tour is the best way to admire the city’s stunning architecture.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Peru
22. machu picchu.
Machu Picchu is a hugely popular tourist attraction in Peru due to the presence of the Inca Ruins. There are a few historical sites that you can visit to learn about Peru’s past.
Some of the most visited places are the central plaza, the high priest’s house, the Inca drawbridge, and Inti Punku (the sun gate).
Lima is the foodie’s destination. The city is filled with some of the best restaurants in Peru. From anticucho (beef hearts cooked over fire or charcoal) on the street to traditional ceviche at a 5-star restaurant, every cuisine will leave you licking your fingers.
Maido, Central, and Astrid y Gaston are some of the best restaurants to try.
Cusco is a beautiful city located within the Andes mountains at a height of 11,152 ft (3,399 m). You can start your tour from Plaza de Armas , the city’s main square.
On your walking tour, you can explore many small shops and restaurants surrounded by stunning views of the mountains. Don’t forget to try empanadas sold on the streets.
25. Huacachina
Huacachina is a small town surrounded by the dunes of central Peru. It is also called an oasis due to a small lake in the center of the town.
Enjoy amazing sunset views, exciting sand buggy rides, and more.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Paraguay
26. ciudad del este.
Ciudad del Este is the second largest city in Paraguay . It is a great place for people who love shopping. Due to low prices and taxes, people from nearby countries cross the border to enjoy discounts.
Some of the best shopping malls to visit include Shopping del Este, Shopping Paris, and Plaza City.
27. Encarnación
Encarnación, often hailed as the tourist capital of Paraguay, entices visitors with its stunning beaches and delightful waterfront boardwalks.
San Jose Beach is a tourist favorite among these beaches, offering a perfect blend of sun, sand, and relaxation. The city is also home to the magnificent Jesus and Trinidad Jesuit Ruins .
On this UNESCO World Heritage site , visitors can explore the remnants of a rich historical past. Encarnación truly captivates with its coastal charm and cultural treasures, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique experience in Paraguay.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Uruguay
28. colonia del sacramento.
Colonia del Sacramento is Uruguay ’s gem. Many colorful houses and streets show the true beauty of artistry and architecture. The old town gate and Plaza de Armas are the 2 main spots you can’t miss.
29. Punta del Este
Punta del Este is a beach town with great activities. The Los Dedos (the fingers) Beach is a local favorite. A sculpture at the beach was made by a famous local artist named Mario Irarrazabal.
You can also enjoy some water activities such as surfing.
Best Places To Visit in South America – Venezuela
30. los roques .
Los Roques turned into a national park in 1972. It is an archipelago known for its marine life. You can spot over 90 bird species, 280 fish species, 60 coral species, and much more.
The place also has various activities, including sailing, diving, fishing, swimming, windsurfing, and snorkeling.
31. Angel Falls
Angel Falls are thundering down from a height of 3,215 ft (980m). They are known for being the highest waterfall in the world.
Not only the view of water falling but the surrounding forest is what makes the whole scene pop.
32. Mount Roraima
Mount Roraima is covered with many rock formations. It is the highest tepui (table mountain) in the Grand Sabana grasslands. However, the presence of fauna and flora makes the view even more attractive.
This off-beaten-track site is a must for your travel books.
Tips for Making the Most of Your South American Vacation
Here are some expert tips to follow on your visit to South America:
- Practice speaking the local language, as people in most countries can’t communicate in English.
- South America is full of landscapes with diverse climates, so pack accordingly.
- Always keep copies of your original documents, such as your visa, passport, and insurance.
- Check the conversion rate before taking local cash. Carry only as much as you need.
- Stick to the popular tourist areas and avoid walking alone at night.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Best Places To Visit in South America
Which south american country is the best to visit.
Every South American country has something unique.
However, the best country to visit in South America is Bolivia, one of the most diverse countries in the world. From the Andes mountain range to the biggest salt flat in the world to the cultural capital of La Paz, Bolivia has something for everyone.
Plus, Bolivia is one of the cheapest countries on the continent, making it the perfect destination for budget travelers.
What Is the Safest Country in South America To Visit?
The safest country in South America is Uruguay.
According to the Global Peace Index , Uruguay is the 46 th safest country out of 163 nations.
What Is the Prettiest Place in South America?
The prettiest place in South America, in my opinion, is Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.
The park is nestled in the picturesque Patagonian region of Chile, showcasing some of the world’s most breathtaking and dramatic landscapes, featuring soaring granite peaks, sparkling turquoise lakes, glaciers, and vast expanses of pristine wilderness.
What Is the Best Time of Year To Visit South America?
The best time to visit South America is between September and November, which is the spring season.
The shoulder season is when there are fewer tourists, the prices are lower, and it’s generally my favorite time to travel.
Conclusion – Best Places To Visit in South America
Is your dream destination included in our list of best places in South America?
Whether you are fascinated with ancient civilizations, seeking the most beautiful hiking trails , looking to be bowled over by marvelous sights, or simply want to chill on some of the world’s beaches, South America’s diverse attractions will have something to satisfy your wanderlust.
Learn more about South America’s unique countries:
- 22 Most Popular Colombian Food Dishes To Try Today
- 12 Best Places To See Chile and Argentina Penguins
Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter
- Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
- Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
- Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.
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50 Must-Experience Adventures In South America
Posted: February 7, 2024 | Last updated: February 7, 2024
South America's finest
Thrilling, beautiful, and sometimes mysterious, South America is on many a traveler's bucket list. With some of the world's best beaches, an abundance of rare wildlife, and a fascinating history, there's an endless list of places to visit, things to do, and sights to see. From world-famous monuments in Brazil to quirky street art in Colombia, there's bound to be something to make you want to come back.
Read on to discover South America's 50 most unmissable experiences..
Visit the world’s largest salt flat in Bolivia
Undoubtedly one of the most popular spots in South America, Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest and highest salt desert, sitting at an altitude of almost 12,000 feet above sea level. Surrounded by Andean peaks, and at 25 times the size of Utah’s salt flats, it’s certainly an awe-inspiring spot. Don’t forget props for those amusing perspective photos: popular choices include toy dinosaurs and kitchen equipment .
Track pumas in Chile
There’s nothing quite like seeing a big cat in the wild, and where better to spot a puma than in the Chilean mountains? Visit during the winter months, when prey, and thus pumas, come further down the mountains and are easier to spot. Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia is a great place to view the cats hunting for food, while the mountainous landscape and caves with ancient paintings make for jaw-dropping scenery, whether you spot a puma or not.
Visit Christ the Redeemer in Brazil
One of South America’s most recognizable landmarks and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer stands atop the city’s Corcovado Mountain and is visited by millions of tourists every year. The largest Art Deco-style sculpture in the world, the statue towers over the city at 100 feet tall and nearly 91 feet wide. Don't just marvel at the enormous artwork though – look down to take in dramatic views of Rio.
Visit the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador
If you’re into wildlife, you couldn’t go anywhere more breathtaking than the Galapagos Islands, the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. They’re home to countless species you can't find anywhere else on Earth, and 80% of the land birds, 97% of the reptiles and land mammals, over 30% of the plants, and more than 20% of the marine species are endemic to the islands.
Live like a gaucho in Argentina
It’s hard to match the sense of solitude and tranquillity you’ll find in Argentinian Patagonia – and there's no better way to experience this magnificent part of the world than by stepping into the boots of a gaucho. Live like a South American cowboy (or girl) by practicing river fishing gaucho-style, exploring a vast estancia (cattle ranch) on horseback, traveling to the dormant volcanic region of Cerro Negro, and camping in the foothills of the Andes.
Visit Machu Picchu in Peru
The 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Peruvian Historical Sanctuary, and was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The ancient city is not just remarkable for its extraordinarily well-preserved ruins but for its dramatic setting in between two Andean peaks. Its exact former use remains a mystery to archaeologists and historians, which makes it all the more intriguing. If you're up for a challenge, consider trekking to the site, though you'll need to book well in advance.
Spot jaguars in Brazil
A recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, the Pantanal is the largest continuous wetland on Earth. It’s also Latin America’s premier wildlife sanctuary, straddling the borders of Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay, and is home to 4,700 species. Lucky visitors could spot anything from adorable capybaras to prowling jaguars: after all, it’s the best region in the world to spot the big cat in the wild.
Enjoy the beach in Uruguay
Once just a sleepy fishing village, Jose Ignacio has undergone a renaissance, emerging as one of South America’s most fashionable holiday destinations. The gorgeous beaches are frequented by the rich and famous, and if you tire of the heavenly views, there’s horseback riding, biking, trendy restaurants, and even yoga studios to enjoy.
Be in two hemispheres at once in Ecuador
Standing with one foot in each hemisphere feels like a bucket-list achievement, but Quito's famed equatorial monument Mitad del Mundo, with a thick line running between each hemisphere, was actually built in the wrong spot. The real equator is several hundred feet away in Museo Solar Inti Nan. It’s still worth visiting Mitad del Mundo, though, if only to get that famous photo on the (wrong) equatorial line.
Get lost in the streets of Cartagena in Colombia
The fairy-tale old town of Cartagena is one of those places where all you need to do is walk and keep your eyes open to make the most of it. The walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is consistently beautiful, with colorful architecture, old colonial homes, enormous churches, and vibrant street art. Don’t forget your camera.
Abseil the world's highest waterfall in Venezuela
Thrill-seekers can't pick a much more high-octane adventure than climbing the tabletop mountain of Auyan-tepui and abseiling down the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls. Fifteen times higher than Niagara, and without the hordes of tourists, the waterfall, also called Kerepakupai Meru, is only witnessed by a few lucky travelers every year due to its remote location. Climb up to the summit and enjoy the vertiginous, two-day descent down the 3,200-foot falls on a 14-day tour .
See one of the world’s deepest canyons in Peru
Located a hundred miles northwest of Arequipa is one of the world’s deepest canyons, Colca Canyon. Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon yet far less well-known, to call it a picturesque spot would be an enormous understatement. The colorful Andean valley, with pre-Incan roots, is a gorgeous place to watch the sunrise, while lucky visitors can spot flying Andean condors – one of the world's largest birds.
Admire street art in Colombia
The streets of Colombia’s capital, Bogota, are alive with color in the form of detailed, vibrant, show-stopping graffiti. You can choose to wander the streets yourself, marvel at the colorful pieces, or take a graffiti tour guided by street artists and urban art experts. You’ll see some of the most impressive murals, learn about the development of the graffiti scene, and hear about the political and social background behind some of the more famous paintings.
Visit the world’s highest capital city in Bolivia
While Sucre is the constitutional capital of Bolivia, La Paz is its de facto capital city – and is also the highest capital city in the world at 11,913 feet above sea level. There’s plenty to do while you’re there, from visiting the bustling food market of Mercado Uruguay to taking in the Bolivian art on the walls of the Museo Nacional de Arte, whose imposing, grand setting is a sight to behold in itself.
Enjoy a road trip through Chile
There’s no feeling of freedom quite like driving yourself through a remote, isolated wilderness, and Chile is a great place to do it. Driving down Chile’s Carretera Austral, a scenic route of over 600 miles of natural beauty at the southernmost tip of the world, is discovery at its best. You’ll see Patagonia at its most untouched, taking in different extremes along the way, from the rainforests of Queulat to the glaciers of the Patagonian ice fields.
Marvel at the world’s highest single-drop falls in Guyana
To visit a waterfall that’s just as powerful and impressive as Niagara Falls or Iguazu Falls but with a fraction of the crowds and tourists, you need to head to Guyana’s Kaieteur Falls in the verdant Kaieteur National Park. Five times taller than Niagara, this is the world’s highest single-drop waterfall, and with 30,000 gallons of water thundering over the 820-foot cliff, visiting is a memorable, beautiful, and noisy experience.
See the colourful Cano Cristales in Colombia
When it comes to beautiful natural phenomena, central Colombia’s Cano Cristales takes some beating. During certain times of the year, the 62-mile-long 'liquid rainbow' river changes color thanks to an aquatic plant called macarenia clavigera, transforming with vibrant shades of yellow, pink, red, green, blue, and orange. Until relatively recently it was too dangerous to visit due to guerrilla activity, but the area is now controlled by the Colombian military and tourists once again have access.
Visit the world’s driest spot in Chile
You may have noticed that South America is full of superlatives, and the Atacama Desert is no exception. The driest place on earth, the desert resembles Mars but has far more for tourists to do, from visiting the Salar de Atacama, Chile’s largest salt flat, to enjoying breathtaking stargazing once night falls. Plus, there’s great weather all year round, so there’s no need to pack a raincoat.
Take a trip to the 'Machu Picchu' of the North in Peru
Machu Picchu certainly isn’t the only archaeological site worth visiting in Peru. Don’t miss out on the visual feast that is the "Machu Picchu of the North," Kuelap Fortress. Standing almost 10,000 feet above sea level, the fortress is the largest stone structure in South America, with around 450 stone houses. The fortress was built and developed between the 6th and 16th centuries by the Chachapoyas, known as the Cloud People, making it older than Machu Picchu.
Dare to experience the world’s scariest swing in Ecuador
Forget the playground swings you toyed with as a child; any true thrill-seeker will want to head to the Swing at the End of the World in Banos. The swing gives visitors beautiful views of the Tungurahua Volcano, and also the chance to earn some serious Instagram kudos. Plus, even though it looks like you could fall off and tumble over a cliff, the photos are misleading: you actually swing over a steep slope rather than a cliff edge. Scary, but not as perilous as it first seems.
See the stunning Las Lajas Sanctuary in Colombia
Anyone with an interest in architecture should book a ticket straight to Narino, Colombia to see the dramatic Las Lajas Cathedral, or Las Lajas Sanctuary, built in the canyon of the Guaitara River. While the church is a popular place for pilgrims to visit, the Gothic style of the building and its striking location are just a few of the reasons it’s high on the list of things to see in Colombia, even if you’re not religious.
Get active in the Chilean Lake District
In stark contrast to the country’s parched Atacama Desert further north, Chile’s Lake District is verdant, with farmland, forests, volcanoes, and, of course, lakes. It’s the perfect playground for outdoor activities, with hiking, biking, canyoning, and rafting all popular pursuits. These aren't any ordinary sporting activities either, with stunning scenery to gawp at while you’re enjoying the exertion. Plus, when it all gets a bit much for your muscles, there are soothing thermal springs waiting.
See preening penguins in southern Argentina
Most TV shows depict penguins huddling together for warmth in the frozen wastes of Antarctica, but it's very simple to see these delightful birds without braving a difficult and expensive polar trip. Five species of penguin live in Patagonia – Magellanic, king, gentoo, Humboldt, and southern rockhopper – each more charming and inquisitive than the last. Tourists have options for where to see these penguins, but the Patagonian peninsula of Punta Tombo and the southern islands of Tierra del Fuego are both popular choices.
Take in religious sites in Suriname
There’s a fascinating collection of religious buildings in Paramaribo, a former Dutch colonial town that's now Suriname’s picture-perfect capital city. There’s the St Peter and Paul Cathedral, said to be the largest wooden structure in the Western Hemisphere; the Mosque Keizerstraat, the biggest mosque in the Caribbean; and the Neveh Shalom Synagogue, with its unique sandy floor which is said to be a reminder of the Hebrews' 40 years in the desert.
See nature at its finest in a Brazilian national park
Right in the heart of Brazil’s Bahia is the stunning national park of Chapada Diamantina, arguably Brazil's most impressive national park. Nature lovers won’t be able to stay away, with the topography of the park – deep valleys, towering peaks, sprawling plains, and shady canyons – contributing to a real sense of rugged beauty. There’s plenty to do, from hiking and exploring caves to bathing in natural swimming pools and gaping at picturesque waterfalls.
Try sandboarding in Peru
Who needs snow when you have sand? The desert oasis of Huacachina in southwestern Peru is the perfect place to strap on a sandboard and put your skills to the test over the undulating sand dunes. If you’d rather sit in a vehicle, climb on board a dune buggy to take in the mesmerizing views without the adrenaline rush.
Walk on a picturesque canopy in Guyana
It might be one to miss if you’re scared of heights, but the Canopy Walkway buried deep within Guyana’s most remote rainforest, the Iwokrama Rainforest, is more than worth a walk for wildlife lovers. Perched a hundred feet above the forest floor, you’ll be able to hear and spot rare birds, howler monkeys, and even the odd reptile.
Trek to one of the last refuges of the Incas in Peru
If you’re interested in discovering more about the Incas, look beyond Machu Picchu: in particular, take the spectacular nearly 40-mile trek to Choquequirao, one of the last refuges of the Incas. With far fewer crowds than Machu Picchu, this set of ruins is said to be three times the size of the more famous lost city. It’s a perfect spot for those who love discovery, as the enormous archaeological complex abandoned in the 16th century is still being excavated today.
Join the jet-set party in Uruguay
Known as the 'St Tropez of Uruguay,' the resort city of Punta del Este comes alive in the summer months of December to February, with tourists from South America and the rest of the world piling in to make the most of the gorgeous beaches, swanky hotels, posh restaurants, buzzing nightclubs, and pricey yachts. Join the party in high season, but be prepared to pay the price – it can be pretty expensive. The city has a much sleepier, but still fun vibe out of season, and is far more affordable.
Hike to the top of a 'floating island' in Venezuela
One of the oldest mountain formations on Earth, the otherworldly Mount Roraima sits at the junction of the borders of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. With its 1,300-foot-tall cliffs, often atmospherically shrouded in cloud, and its tabletop formation, it might seem like a floating island, but really it's a spectacular mountain dating back two billion years. Trekking to the top takes about six days, with incredible views and scenery along the way.
Visit one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings in Guyana
Said to be one of the tallest wooden structures in the world, St George's Cathedral in Georgetown is one of Guyana’s most impressive buildings. The Gothic-style cathedral is built entirely of timber apart from the foundation walls and stands at just over 140 feet high.
Party at the world’s biggest carnival in Brazil
There ain’t no party like a Rio de Janeiro party – specifically the Rio Carnival which takes place each year in February. The biggest carnival in the world, this enormous celebration sees two million people spilling onto the streets every day to sing, dance, and gawp at the festivities. Plus, when you’re not enjoying the samba parade and street parties, there are the incredible beaches of Rio to flop onto.
Spot wildlife in Bolivia
The Yungas – also known as the Bolivian Amazon – is where the Andean mountains meet the Amazon. Wildlife enthusiasts should head for the Madidi National Park. It’s one of the largest protected areas in the world at nearly 7,300 square miles – almost the size of New Jersey. Inside the park, you can find everything from caiman crocodiles and anacondas to capybaras, giant anteaters, many bird species, and even jaguars.
Dance a tango in Argentina
The sophisticated, sensual dance that is the tango is synonymous with Argentina, and, indeed, with its cosmopolitan capital Buenos Aires. It’s easy to get stuck into a tango no matter how shy and retiring you are: watch a show from the sidelines, book a private or group lesson, or visit a milonga , a traditional tango hall, to get a taste of the scene.
Check out Bolivia’s most beautiful lakes
Close to the borders with Chile and Argentina, and at Bolivia’s southernmost tip, you can see some of the planet’s most colorful, striking landscapes in the form of the fiery Laguna Colorado and the emerald Laguna Verde. Both aesthetic marvels, the lakes have turned their striking colors thanks to fortuitous geographical occurrences.
See beautiful colonial buildings in Uruguay
Uruguay isn’t all about the beaches and parties in trendy Punta del Este and Jose Ignacio; don’t miss the picturesque colonial town of Colonia. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded by the Portuguese in 1680 and maintains a well-preserved architectural landscape with influences from the Portuguese, Spanish, and post-colonial styles. Don’t forget your camera as you make your way through the cobbled streets and leafy plazas.
Admire impressive sculptures in Colombia
One of Medellin’s most photographed areas, the exquisite Plaza Botero, or Plaza de Las Esculturas, is a delightful space full of sculptures by Colombian artist and sculptor Fernando Botero. There are 23 of the bronze sculptures, depicting large, curvaceous, exaggerated figures, in the 80,729 square feet of space in front of the Museo Antioquia.
Explore the northwest of Argentina
The city of Salta exudes charm, with spectacular buildings, streets throbbing with locals and plenty of restaurants offering the beef Argentina is so famous for. From Salta journey north, where you’ll find the beautiful Tren de las Nubes – or 'Train of the Clouds' – which passes through some of the region’s most beautiful scenery, and visit the multi-colored canyons of the Calchaqui Valleys.
Chiloe Island in Chile
The intriguing Chiloe Island is less than two miles off the coast of Chile, but it feels like another planet, with its own distinctive cuisine, customs, and architecture. There’s plenty to do, from spotting penguins to shopping at bustling local markets. Don’t forget to take in the postcard-perfect architecture, from the houses mounted on stilts to the many wooden churches, 16 of which make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Drive down the world's scariest road in Bolivia
Known colloquially as 'El Camino de la Muerte,' or 'Death Road,' the utterly terrifying drive down Bolivia’s Yungas Road is not for the faint-hearted. Connecting La Paz with Yungas in the Amazonian rainforest, those brave enough to make the journey must navigate their way down the narrow, vertiginous road along with many other cyclists and motorists. Between 200 and 300 people die on the road each year, so think carefully before booking.
Gawp at the Iguazu Falls in Argentina and Brazil
The spectacular natural wonder that is the Iguazu Falls is one of South America’s most awe-inspiring highlights. Lying between Brazil and Argentina, the hundreds of thundering waterfalls that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site can also be accessed from Paraguay. The waterfalls span nearly two miles, and have vertical drops of up to 260 feet. The landscape is so dramatic it’s been used in a number of films, from Miami Vice to Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull .
Check out the bustling food markets in Suriname
If you don't mind a bit of pushing and shoving, head to Paramaribo’s Central Market, where you can pick up meat, fruit, vegetables, fish, and clothes in the frantic atmosphere. There’s also the more unusual 'Witch’s Market,' or Maroon Market, where you can see the herbs, bones, sticks, tonics, and shells used for Aymara rituals. Photography is not allowed.
Ski on an active volcano in Chile
South America is by no means just about warm weather, beach towels, and bikinis. The continent is also home to a variety of excellent ski resorts, the most exciting of which is Chile’s Ski Pucon, located on Villarrica Volcano, an active volcano. While the ski-obsessed may prefer to opt for a larger resort like Argentina’s Cerro Catedral, visitors who are also into nature should head to Ski Pucon to enjoy fantastic views of all five of southern Chile’s major lakes.
Run the (half) Marathon des Sables in Peru
The Marathon des Sables is one of the world's most notorious races – a six-day, 160-mile ultramarathon through the Sahara Desert that involves running one regular marathon each day. South America's edition is slightly more merciful: the so-called Half Marathon des Sables allows participants to choose between three different distances, the longest of which is 75 miles, split into three stages. The event is still grueling beyond belief but comes with stunning panoramas of the Peruvian desert.
Enjoy the opera in Argentina
Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires, is home to one of the most important opera houses in the world: the Teatro Colon. With grand architecture and excellent acoustics, it’s a world-class institution. The likes of Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti have taken to its stage, and it’s always packed, so if you fancy a night at the opera be sure to book ahead.
Take a colourful funicular in Chile
With its colorful buildings, loud street art, and crumbling charm, Valparaiso is a bohemian port city that’s ripe for exploring. A World Heritage City, there’s plenty to discover, from surprise staircases to hills with dazzling lookouts. Don’t miss hopping aboard one of its famous funiculars – elevators built on rail tracks – to enjoy fantastic views of the quirky city from great heights.
Visit impressive ruins in Paraguay
Paraguay is home to two sprawling UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jesuit missions: La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue, established by the Society of Jesus during the 17th and 18th centuries. Located six miles apart, the quiet archaeological ruins can be explored in a relatively crowd-free setting.
Gawp at a beautiful grotto in Brazil
Discovered less than a hundred years ago, the spellbinding Gruta Do Lago Azul, or the Blue Lake Grotto, in Bonito, Brazil, is dazzling with its astoundingly clear water and cavernous structure. It’s not only beautiful but intriguing: the grotto is home to thousands of prehistoric animal bones that once belonged to a variety of creatures, from giant sloths to saber-toothed tigers.
See South America’s Stonehenge in Chile
There’s nothing tourists love more than a mystery, and mysteries don’t get much more puzzling than the stone heads of Chile’s Easter Island, or Rapa Nui to its native Polynesian inhabitants. Like Stonehenge, the monolithic statues, or moai, have mystified archaeologists for years. How did they come to be there? How were they carved? If you ever tire of puzzling over the majestic statues, explore the rest of what the island has to offer, from horseback riding and cycling to diving and surfing.
Take a boat on Lake Titicaca in Peru and Bolivia
Thought to be the birthplace of the sun in Andean culture, Lake Titicaca is South America’s largest lake. Make Puno your base, and once you've explored the bustling markets of this 'folklore capital,' head out on a ferry to visit some of the many islands. A homestay here offers an insight into local agrarian life on the lake.
Now read on to see our list of the world's 60 most unmissable wonders
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Well, here you can! Fernando de Noronha is a group of islands that belongs to Brazil. The archipelago consists of 21 islands, islets, and rocks of volcanic origin and this UNESCO World Heritage-listed island is a paradise on earth for anyone interested in diving and animal life. 9. Iguazú Falls, Paraná.
3. Corcovado - Christ the Redeemer. At the top of the wonderful city is the Cristo Redentor Sanctuary, the main postcard of Brazil and Rio de Janeiro. The monument to Christ the Redeemer is the largest and most famous Art Deco sculpture in the world.
San Rafael is known for its natural beauty, including mountains, waterfalls, and rivers. You can bird watch, hike, or simply soak in nature. "People want to come to have an inner journey ...
Lucky hikers might cross paths with giant anteaters, giant armadillos, maned wolves and rheas, South America's largest bird. 6. Pantanal The largest wetland region in the world, the Pantanal offers the best wildlife spotting in Brazil. South America's largest mammal (tapir) and largest bird (rhea) call the Pantanal home, as do more than 230 species of fish and 650 species of bird - plus ...
11. Spot Wildlife at the Pantanal Wetlands. Last on our list of things to do in Brazil is wildlife spotting in the Pantanal. The Pantanal is undoubtedly the best destination for seeing wildlife in Brazil. Stay in a comfortable lodge and take excursions in search of capybara, macaws, anteaters, tapirs, and a lot more!
5. Florianopolis. The capital of Santa Catarina state, Florianopolis lies in the south of Brazil, with half of the city set on the mainland and the other on a beautiful island. Due to its scenic setting, it is a very popular tourist destination and is widely considered one of the best places to live in the country.
Best Places to Visit in Brazil. 1. Rio de Janeiro. The cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain! The world-famous Christ the Redeemer statue! The obvious first entry on this list of the best places to visit in Brazil is Rio de Janeiro! Easily one of the most famous cities in the world.
As the largest country in South America, Brazil is a vast playground for the intrepid traveller with everything from dense, exotic rainforest to bustling, dynamic cities, as well as sprawling national parks and glorious, jaw-dropping beaches. If you're feeling spoilt for choice, here are the 20 attractions that are must-sees in Brazil.
The 10 most incredible places to visit in Brazil. Mar 1, 2024 • 9 min read. Don't get overwhelmed by the scale of Brazil - get organized! Here are our top 10 favorite places to visit in this South American sensation.
Parque Nacional da Serra da Capivara. Piauí. One of Brazil's most important national parks, this 1300-sq-km reserve contains more than 40,000 rock paintings among spectacular panoramas of immense….
Recommended Costa Verde Tours. Rio de Janeiro & the Route of Gold Tour. Rio, Tropical Island & the Historical Port of Paraty. Colonial Gems & Historical Cities in Brazil Tour. 5. Among our Favorite Places to Visit in Brazil on the Coast: Lençois Maranhenses, Brazil.
Location: North of Fortaleza along the coast. 5. Gruta do Lago Azul. Gruta do Lago Azul is also known as "the blue lake grotto.". The main attraction here is the sparkling underground lake inside the cave. Tour guides are happy to share the history of the caves with you.
Brazil is the largest country in South America, dominating the central and eastern portions of the continent. From the massive and legendary Amazon Rainforest in the north to the jaw-dropping tropical beaches along the Atlantic coast to the Pantanal wetlands, there are plenty of marvelous Brazilian vacation destinations, where you'll see some of the most beautiful nature in the world.
The Pantanal, located mostly in Brazil (some is in Bolivia and Paraguay), is the world's largest tropical wetland, encompassing an area the size of Washington State. While not as famous as its sister wetlands in the Amazon, the Pantanal is the best place in South America to see wildlife, ranging from jaguars to capybaras. 17. Ushuaia, Argentina
Places on the map. Speak to a certified Brazil specialist to start planning your tailor-made vacation... Call one of our experts or arrange a video appointment for ideas and advice. 617-223-4910. Make an inquiry. Tamatha. Japan & South America Specialist. Ana. Brazil, Chile & Peru Specialist.
One of the best places to visit in South America, Sugarloaf Mountain is a major landmark in Brazil, well known for the panoramic city views guests get at the top. The cable car system here opened in 1912; it was the first in Brazil and the third in the world.
1 -Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil. One of the most famous places to visit in South America. The spectacular Iguazu Falls stretching from Brazil to Argentina. The spectacular Iguazu waterfall system is the biggest in the world, consisting of 275 falls up to 82m high where the Iguazu River tumbles over the edge of the Paraná Plateau.
3. Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil. One of the most beautiful places in Brazil and Argentina, the Iguazu Falls are a chain of 275 roaring cascades in the middle of a tropical forest. Shared between the two countries, the Iguazu Falls are one of the best places to travel in South America.. Spanning 1.6 miles (2.7 km) in length, Iguazu Falls is a top contender for the title of South America ...
16. Santiago. The view from Cerro San Cristobal of Santiago is priceless! Chile's capital and biggest city just HAD to make my list of the best places to visit in South America. This vibrant, modern city is a Chile highlight, and honestly, you'll "get" its magic within a day of wandering Santiago!
Brazil: Best Places To Visit in South America. Brazil is home to several of the most exciting places to visit in South America. Untouched virgin beaches, tropical rainforests, rhythmic cities and a vibrant population await in South America's largest country. The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
Iguazu Falls (Brazil & Argentina) One of the best destinations in South America is the glorious Iguazu Falls ( Cataratas del Iguazú in Spanish or Foz do Iguaçu in Portuguese). Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, few waterfalls come close to the gloriously beautiful Iguazu Falls.
Summary of Money's Best Places to Visit in South America. Medellin, Colombia - Best for Outdoor Enthusiasts. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Best Natural Wonders. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador - Best Islands. Quito, Ecuador - Best Affordable Trip. Lima, Peru - Best Ancient Archaeological Sites. We review the 5 best places to visit in South ...
Spread the loveSouth America is a vibrant continent replete with natural wonders, exciting cultures, and fascinating history. Here are the 25 best places to visit in this stunning region: 1. Machu Picchu, Peru - The ancient Incan ruins offer a glimpse into a past civilization amidst the breathtaking Andes. 2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Known for its iconic Christ the Redeemer statue ...
S queezed between beautiful bays, forest-swathed mountains and ready to party 24/7, Rio de Janeiro is where sizzling South American city life meets the continent's loveliest coastal landscapes ...
Best Places To Visit in South America - Argentina. Argentina is one of the most diverse and unique countries in South America. From the bustling city streets to the breathtaking natural wonders of Patagonia and the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, Argentina offers a rich tapestry of experiences for all types of explorers.
Touted as one of the most unforgettable road trip adventure in all of Latin America, the . Read More . 07 Dec, 2023 chimu Chile Country Information. The Culture and Customs of Chile. ... Click the destinations you would love to travel to: Antarctica & Arctic South America. Sister Companies of Chimu:
Undoubtedly one of the most popular spots in South America, Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest and highest salt desert, sitting at an altitude of almost 12,000 feet above sea level.