South America is a whole package of awesomeness! This continent has so much to offer, from stunning natural landscapes to ecstatic crowds. In South America, you can find verdant rainforests, jubilant parties, exciting everyday life, to unbelievable spots that look nothing like Earth. With so much to see in South America, choosing a few to visit might be challenging. So, we have compiled a list of the 15 best places to visit in South America. Check them out, and get ready to be enchanted!
14 Best Places to Visit in South America
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Galapagos Island, Ecuador
- Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
- Easter Island, Chile
- Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
- Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina
- Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
- Los Roques Archipelago, Venezuela
- Atacama Desert, Chile
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Cartagena, Colombia
- Cusco, Peru
- Quito, Ecuador
Machu Picchu, Peru
Find this magical world heritage site that lies between the lush, cloudy mountains of Peru. The first glance at Machu Pichu will take your breath away. Valleys and verdant hills encompass this centuries-old sanctuary as if hiding the secrets of the once-reigning Inca Empire. You can find stone structures scattered throughout the meadowed hills in an organized manner. Thus, it is considered a masterpiece of the Inca Empire, portraying their expertise in astronomy and agriculture. With its breathtaking scenery and fascinating history, Machu Picchu is surely the best place to visit in South America.
Things to Do in Machu Picchu: hiking along the Sacred Valley, stopping by several important points, including the Temple of Sun and Temple of Condor, taking pictures, and going for a guided tour to learn more about the history and mystery of the site.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Witness magnificent and untouched nature in this remote archipelago. The islands once inspired Charles Darwin, the legendary evolutionary biologist, to produce his famous work, ‘Theory of Evolution.’ With their hundreds-year-old animals and seemingly eternal reptiles, no wonder that Galapagos Islands are such a big deal for science. Besides that, traveling to Galapagos Islands is on lots of people’s bucket lists. Thus, a vacation to Galapagos Islands will be an enthralling adventure, especially for the nature-geeks!
The Galapagos Islands are the best place to see wild animals. You can see the famous Galapagos turtles roaming around their natural habitat, as well as carefree iguanas and cheery sea lions. You can also see conservation centers such as El Chato Tortoise Reserve. Not to mention, the ocean view in the Galapagos Islands is gorgeous, with opulent shades of turquoise.
Then, how to visit Galapagos Islands? You can fly from mainland Ecuador to the islands. Thus, the only way to explore the island is through Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD) tours. You can see the inhabited islands and conservation centers with the official guides. That way, you can travel safely and protect the natural beauty and endemic species there.
Things to Do in Galapagos Islands: Visit El Chato Tortoise Reserve, watch sea lions on San Cristobal Island, trek around Isabela Island, see Charles Darwin Research Station, and chill on Santa Cruz Island.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
As you set your eyes on the white-dominated scene, you will understand why Salar de Uyuni is the prettiest place in South America. Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat, extending around 10,000 kilometers square wide in the southern part of Bolivia. It looks like an endless land of snow-shrouded in white.
Besides that, Salar de Uyuni turns into a giant mirror after the rain. The endless terrain and watery land reflect the sky and objects on top of the land, creating an otherworldly scenery. Thus, there is no place on Earth that looks like Salar de Uyuni. So, visiting this magical spot will carve a memory of a lifetime.
Things to Do in Salar de Uyuni: Take playful optical illusion photos, go for a jeep tour, see the Dakar Monument, and visit the world’s first salt hotel
Easter Island, Chile
With a blend of outstanding scenery and world mystery, Easter Island is one of the top places to visit in South America. This island is off the coast of Chile and stretches around 2,000 miles from the mainland. It is home to one of the greatest enigmas on Earth, the gigantic Moai sculptures.
The Moai statues come in the shape of enormous human heads with hollow eyes and stern facial structures. There are around 887 moai statues scattered on the island, preserved by the Rapa Nui National Park. Even though the island is remote, it is inhabited by the Rapa Nui community. You can discover more about their culture by mingling with them or attending the Tapati Rapa Nui Festival.
Things to Do on Easter Island: Visit Rapa Nui National Park, snap some photos of the Maui statues, relax at Anakena Beach, see Rano Kau volcano crater, and see ancient carvings at Papa Vaka.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Patagonia is one of the best places to travel in South America, even the world. The mixture of Alpine scrubs, meadowed valleys, and icy glaciers create an ethereal landscape that will take your breath away. See a piece of Patagonia in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile. This national park is calling adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
Torres del Paine National Park offers a wide range of challenges for you who love being outdoors. Its rugged valleys, glimmering lake, and snow-capped mountains invite you to explore. The park has a little bit of everything for everyone, from hiking to kayaking. The national park is also perfect for photographers looking for unbelievable scenery to capture.
Things to Do in Torres del National Park: Hike the Valley Frances, kayak the Grey Glacier, horseback ride, go flyfishing, and go hiking.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina & Brazil
A list of the best places to visit in South America would not be complete without Iguazu Falls. This UNESCO World Heritage site features an extraordinary landscape of enormous waterfalls, stretching around 3km on the border of Brazil and Argentina. Lush rainforest and misty greeneries encompass the waterfall, creating spectacular scenery. Furthermore, Iguazu Falls are more than a jaw-dropping sight.
Iguazu Falls have a little bit of everything for every traveler. Whether you are a relaxed tourist or an always-active adventurer, you can have an enjoyable time in Iguazu Falls. Moreover, this incredible waterfall is something that you should absolutely see in South America.
Things to Do in Iguazu Falls: Boat tour along the rivers, see the waterfall from a viewing platform, jet-boating, visit conservation areas, see the lookout point of Devil’s Throat, and go zip lining.
Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
Head to the southern end of the world, slightly before Antarctica. In this region of Argentina, you will find an unbelievable scene of towering glaciers, snow-draped land, and a brilliant turquoise body of water. The stunning sight in Los Glaciares National Park looks otherworldly, but at the same time, you will know what a ‘paradise on earth’ looks like. For that reason, it is one of the best places to visit in South America.
The main attraction in Los Glaciares National Park is the Perito Moreno Glacier. It is a gigantic glacier floating above a turquoise glacial lake. The glacier is eye candy, standing in a prominent shade of white among the surrounding grey mountains. So, if you want to peek at what Antarctica looks like, Los Glaciares National Park is your destination!
Things to Do in Los Glaciares National Park: See Perito Moreno Glacier and other surrounding glaciers, go for a boat trip, hike in Laguna Capri, and kayak along the icy lakes.
Los Roques Archipelago, Venezuela
This pristine archipelago calls everyone in love with the sea or tropical islands. Los Roques Archipelago boasts a handful of Pacific Ocean’s coral atolls where colorful underwater ecosystems live. This archipelago is located in Venezuela and is well-known as a natural reserve. Even though it is remote, you can still head to Los Roques Archipelago and be captivated by its untouched beauty.
Los Roques Archipelago lies off the coast of northern Venezuela. It can be reached by a 40-minute flight from Caracas in small planes that land in Gran Roque, the biggest island in the archipelago. You will be spoiled by sandy coastlines, crystal clear waters, and spectacular underwater scenery. Thus, Los Roques Archipelago has the most pristine coral reefs. So, if you are a diving or snorkeling enthusiast, you will love this beautiful place in South America!
Things to Do in Los Roques Archipelago: Diving, snorkeling, chilling and sunbathing on the beach, windsurfing, and sailing
Atacama Desert
If you ever wonder how it feels to land on another planet, the Atacama Desert will give you a hint. The endless desert is shrouded in arid wildlands, enticing rock structures, and a silent void. There are almost no living creatures in the arid, reddish desert. It displays an extreme, inhospitable environment where no animals nor plants could live. However, the Atacama Desert leaves a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
Not just an immense desert, the Atacama Desert is also scattered with oases and semi-arid rivers. Moreover, there are a lot of interesting things you can find in the Atacama Desert. From the world’s oldest mummies to chilling ghost towns, this desert will trigger the detective inside you. Furthermore, the Atacama Desert is one of the best places to see a beautiful sunset and stargaze. That said, no wonder the Atacama Desert is one of the best places to visit in South America.
Things to Do in the Atacama Desert: Go for jeep tours around the desert, sandboarding, hiking, fat-biking, off-roading, visit San Pedro de Atacama, swim in Lagunas Escondidas de Baltinache, watch the sunset at Valle de La Luna, and see Chincorro mummies.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Brazil is one of the best countries to visit in South America that should be on your bucket list. Then one of the reasons why Brazil is so special is because of its vibrant city Rio de Janeiro. As a cultural melting pot and inspiration in popular culture, Rio de Janeiro has lots to offer. It is home to Christ the Redeemer statue, which stands on the top of a lush hill and overlooks the brilliant ocean. The city’s icon is already astonishing, but Rio will amaze you with much more.
Rio de Janeiro offers gorgeous beaches, feisty nightlife, enticing cuisines, and jubilant football culture. Whether you want to watch a football game or dance the night away, everything is awesome in Rio! Furthermore, Rio de Janeiro is famous for its annual carnival. The city burst with colors, samba music, and tons of fun during the period. So, visit Rio de Janeiro in February this year to experience this extraordinary carnival!
Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro: Sunbathe on Copacabana and Ipanema Beach, watch a football match in Maracana Stadium, try a Brazilian barbeque, see Christ the Redeemer statue and its nearby Tijuca National Park, and party.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Millions of travelers fly to Argentina every year. Besides the fact that Argentina is the safest country in South America, the country has so many amazing things to see. One of the primadonnas of Argentina is its capital city, Buenos Aires. This vibrant city lures travelers with its authenticity and luscious charms.
Buenos Aires features an alluring combination of classic Europe and flamboyant South American culture. It is shown through the architecture of Buenos Aires, which comprises neoclassical buildings and gaudy traditional barrios. For that reason, Buenos Aires is often called ‘The Paris of South America.’ Therefore, spending a day or two in Buenos Aires would be perfect for your South America bucket list.
Things to Do in Buenos Aires: Stroll through barrios, shop in San Telmo, visit the National Museum of Fine Arts, see street tango performances, sample some Argentine snacks, and stroll through Palermo Woods’ Rose Garden Walk.
Cartagena, Colombia
Visiting Cartagena might feel like visiting a European city. This is due to an array of neoclassical and baroque-style buildings lining the city. Besides the enchanting architecture, Cartagena offers an imposing sight of the Caribbean Sea. Furthermore, it offers dazzling attractions, such as colonial churches and flower-draped boulevards, that will make you stop and stare. Even though Cartagena is comprised of European-styled buildings, the atmosphere will remind you that you are in one of the best cities in South America.
The main deal of Cartagena is the Old Town. This UNESCO-listed spot makes you travel back in time with its cobblestone streets, colonial walls, and centuries-old buildings. The town invites you to snap tons of pictures, as it is so picturesque.
Things to Do in Cartagena: See the Walled Town of Cartagena, stroll through Barrio Getsemani, visit La Popa Convent, see the artistic Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver, and walk through Centro Historico.
Cusco, Peru
You might have heard about Cusco, as it is the stop before you visit Machu Picchu. However, Cusco is much more than that. The city is a living museum dotted with centuries-old baroque buildings and ancient remnants of the Inca Empire. Thus, the antique aspects of Cusco collaborate nicely with the modern everyday life in the city.
Visiting Cusco will give you a lot of surprises. There are a lot of buildings, districts, and historical sites that will leave you in awe. Moreover, get a taste of the Andean culture as you visit Cusco–literally. In this city, you can sample some delightful and authentic Andean cuisines. Moreover, Cusco looks good on camera. The city lures you to take a lot of photos and bring a lasting memory home.
Things to Do in Cusco: See the ancient site of Sacsayhuaman, visit Cusco’s Historical Center, sample some Andean and Peruvian cuisines, see Qoricancha Temple, and try out some chocolate in the Chocolate Museum.
Quito, Ecuador
The classic and antique atmosphere in Quito makes it one of the best places to visit in South America. Thus, Quito is one of the highest cities in the world, standing at 9,350 feet above sea level. Like Cusco and Cartagena, Quito looks like a living museum. It is lined with historical buildings with iconic baroque and neoclassical architecture. For that reason, Quito is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Quito displays a unique scene of both European and South American culture. The European-style buildings were built by the Spanish. Meanwhile, there are lots of Inca artifacts and ruins in the city. It also boasts a lovely sample of Ecuadorian culture through colorful buildings and beautiful barrios. Therefore, Quito is worth visiting.
Things to Do in Quito: See La Compañía de Jesús Cathedral, sightseeing from TeleferiQo, visit Cathedral Metropolitana, and visit the Guayasamin Museum.
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