22 Best Places to Visit in South America and a Chile Extension
The best places to visit in South America depend on your interests: Cusco and Machu Picchu for Inca history, the Galápagos for wildlife, Patagonia for glaciers and hiking, and Colombia’s coffee towns for a slower stay. These 22 traveler picks help you choose a realistic route, with Rapa Nui included as a separate Chile extension.
Book experiences after choosing your route
Staying in San Pedro de Atacama? A guided Moon Valley outing handles local transport and interpretation. Compare the final fee inclusions and pickup instructions.
Staying in Cusco? A Sacred Valley day tour can simplify the journey between ruins. The linked option visits Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero; entry depends on the option booked.
Check Sacred Valley tour options
These are separate local outings in different countries, not a combined itinerary. Neither replaces Machu Picchu entry, a national-park trekking reservation or a Galápagos package. Check guide language, cancellation, walking demands and pickup before paying.
This guide brings together recommendations from travelers who have explored the continent. Their individual descriptions and credits remain below, with practical updates alongside them. Personal accounts refer to earlier visits; they do not establish today’s opening times, transport schedules or availability.
Use the list to choose a few connected places. The distance between a Brazilian island, an Andean trek and southern Patagonia can consume several travel days. A good two-week trip usually benefits from fewer bases and room for weather or transport disruption.
South America planning at a glance
- First trip: choose one country or two neighboring regions before booking activities.
- Timing: there is no single best season for the whole continent. Match dates to your main destination.
- Advance planning: prioritize Machu Picchu entry, remote lodges, island flights and multiday park accommodation.
- Budget: compare complete trip costs in the payment currency, including domestic flights, transfers, park fees and guides.
- Scope: Rapa Nui is in Polynesia, politically part of Chile. It needs a separate flight and is not a mainland stop.
Quick picks by travel style
- History and city time: Cusco
- Wildlife and islands: Galápagos
- Glacier views: Perito Moreno
- A planned hiking trip: Torres del Paine
- Coffee and a small-town stay: Salento
- Wine and food: Mendoza
- Two-country waterfall visit: Iguazú
1. Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador
The Ecuadorian city of Baños de Agua Santa, more commonly known as Baños, combines waterfalls, hot springs and outdoor activities in a compact base.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to zipline across a valley, an avid hiker seeking new terrain to explore, or just somebody looking to relax and take it easy for a few days, Baños can and will deliver.
Read also: 2-Day-Itinerary Baños, Ecuador.
Some of the more popular activities in Baños are kayaking, rafting, canyoning, and bridge-jumping. Still, the city is also the perfect base to explore the nearby areas, including the remote Llanganates National Park and the Amazon Basin.
Baños is also the starting point of the cycling route known as the Ruta de las Cascadas. It takes you past waterfalls toward Pailón del Diablo, but involves road traffic: check current conditions and arrange a return transfer if needed.
If adrenaline sports and waterfalls aren’t your things, you can relax in one of the many hot springs in the area, after which the city was named (Baños de Agua Santa translates into English as Baths of Holy Water).
La Casa del Árbol, known for its “Swing at the End of the World,” is another option if the weather is clear.
Although in real life, the swing isn’t quite as dramatic as social media leads you to believe, the view of Tungurahua Volcano peaking through the clouds on the opposite side of the valley is absolutely outstanding.
Recommended by Rhiannon from Wales to Wherever
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Baños, mainland Ecuador.
- Best for and time needed: Waterfalls and outdoor activities; 2–3 nights.
- Admission and costs: Individual waterfall entrances, thermal baths, equipment and guided activities cost separately.
- Access and timing: Check road, river and attraction conditions; the waterfall cycle route includes traffic.
- Booking and transport: Ask about safety equipment, suitability and return transport for each activity.
2. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
If you’re planning on heading to Patagonia in the deep south of South America, consider Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate.
Read also: Best things to do in Patagonia
We were fortunate enough to visit in late 2016 and had a truly incredible time. The descriptions below recall that visit; present-day access and trekking conditions need to be checked separately.
The glacier is moving ice, and chunks can break off into the lake. Calving is unpredictable rather than a scheduled spectacle.
It’s good fun just to stand there, watching the large chunk break away and hearing the loud booming noises as the ice crashes dozens of feet down into the water below.
The ice front changes over time, so everyone’s visit can be different. Stay on permitted walkways and follow the park’s closures.
For the journey, see the contributor’s account of getting to Perito Moreno Glacier. Confirm current bus or tour departures from El Calafate.
A guided ice-trekking excursion is a separate option from the public boardwalks. Check age, fitness, equipment and current glacier access before booking; a boat sightseeing trip does not automatically include walking on the ice.
Recommended by Bradley from Dream Big Travel Far
Plan this stop
- Base and location: El Calafate, Argentine Patagonia.
- Best for and time needed: Glacier viewing; one full day plus 2–3 nights in the area.
- Admission and costs: Los Glaciares park admission is separate from many transfers, boats and ice treks. Check the selected package.
- Access and timing: Use authorized boardwalks and current park notices; ice trekking has specific participation rules.
- Booking and transport: Choose boardwalk sightseeing for less exertion; add a guided ice trek only if its requirements suit you.
3. Amazon Rainforest
South America is a fantastic combination of great metropolitan cities and beautiful nature. When you think of South America, a few things definitely come to mind, and one of these, for most people, is the Amazon Rain Forest.
The Amazon spans a vast area of the continent, with different gateways and ecosystems. It is not a single destination that can be visited in one short stop.
One option is to explore the Amazon from Peru, choosing a lodge around Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos to suit the rest of your route.
Read also: Best Things to do in Peru besides visiting Machu Picchu.
Transfer times vary considerably by lodge. Ask how much of the arrival and departure days will be spent traveling by road and boat.
I’d recommend spending at least 3–4 days in the Amazon to get the most out of it, with travel time considered separately.
The best way to maximize your time in the jungle is to stay in a lodge!
It’ll give you the experience of actually staying in the jungle and will allow you to get the most out of your visit. Most lodges will help to organize activities that take a lot of the guesswork out of the experience.
The Amazon has a ton to offer, and some of the things to do include water activities on the Amazon, fishing for piranhas, hiking, star gazing, searching for wildlife, and so much more.
Facilities, connectivity and medical access vary by lodge. Plan ahead and confirm the exact activities rather than assuming every wildlife or boat experience is included.
Recommended by Liliane from My Toronto, My World
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Choose one gateway, such as Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos in Peru.
- Best for and time needed: Guided forest and wildlife experiences; 3–4 days or longer, plus transfers.
- Admission and costs: Compare lodge totals including meals, guides, boats, transfers and reserve charges.
- Access and timing: River levels and lodge location affect activities; wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
- Booking and transport: Book a specific lodge and itinerary, not a generic “Amazon tour.” Get route-specific travel-health advice.
4. Boipeba Island, Brazil
Located in the Tinharé Archipelago off Bahia, Boipeba Island has Atlantic forest, mangroves and beaches framed by coconut trees.
It has an incredible ecosystem and is a world of ecological diversity.
The island has a very simple structure and many gorgeous beaches. In fact, some of the best beaches in Bahia are located in Boipeba.
I visited the island in February 2016 and was enchanted by its welcoming village with cobblestone streets and colorful houses and delighted by the spectacular beaches with soft sand and unbelievably warm water.
Ilha de Boipeba suits travelers looking for time in nature and a slower stay. Allow time for the boat connections rather than squeezing it into a rushed day trip.
Recommended by Péricles from 7 Continents 1 Passport
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Boipeba, Bahia; coordinate mainland and boat connections.
- Best for and time needed: Beaches and a slower island stay; 3–4 nights.
- Admission and costs: Accommodation, boat transfers and excursions; ask about any local visitor charges.
- Access and timing: Sea conditions and tides affect boat outings and beach routes.
- Booking and transport: Confirm the complete transfer with your accommodation, including the last boat and luggage arrangements.
5. Santiago, Chile
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is spectacularly located at the foot of the Andes. In clear weather, the sight of the Andes looming majestically behind the city is jaw-dropping.
There are several things that you must do when you visit Santiago.
Read also: Best things to do in Santiago, Chile
Take a food tour to get an overview of local food, markets, and sights. Sample sandwiches, smoothies, seafood, and sweets.
Visit the Mercado Central/ Central Market, where the freshest seafood is sold, and Vega Market, where the locals do their daily shopping.
Stop at the Plaza de Armas, the main square in historic Santiago, to visit the neoclassical cathedral and see the fascinating indigenous peoples’ statue.
Take the funicular to the top of Cerro San Cristobal for incredible views, especially on clear days (just after rain is when the views are best).
The sight of the city stretched out below, framed by steep mountains thousands of feet high, is one of the highlights of any visit to the city.
The metro can help with city sightseeing. For crafts, check the current opening of your chosen market rather than relying on an old market name or timetable.
Palacio La Moneda is the seat of Chile’s presidency. If you want to see the changing of the guard, check the official schedule for your date rather than relying on an every-other-day rule.
Head to the Bellavista neighborhood for restaurants and nightlife, where Calle Pio Nono and the parallel Calle Constitucion are lined with entertainment and dining options.
For a great day trip, head out to one (or more) of the many wineries in the nearby Maipo Valley, one of Chile’s wine-growing industry centers.
There is no shortage of things to do in Santiago!
Recommended by James from Travel Collecting
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Santiago; airport SCL.
- Best for and time needed: Markets, city views and wine excursions; 2–3 nights.
- Admission and costs: Price museums, hill transport and winery visits separately; no single city admission.
- Access and timing: Museum, market and funicular hours vary. Check the guard ceremony calendar if it matters to your visit.
- Booking and transport: Keep a city day separate from a wine-valley excursion and arrange transport after tastings.
6. Colca Canyon, Peru
One of my absolute favorite best places to visit in South America is Colca Canyon in Peru.
The canyon is one of the deepest in the world, and the majestic mountains will totally take your breath away.
The mountains frame small rural villages, and along the hiking routes you may see avocado trees, fig trees and prickly pears. Bring your own food and do not pick produce without permission.
Colca Canyon is known for Andean condors, and excursions from Arequipa often visit the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint.
Early morning can be rewarding for watching condors soar, but sightings are never guaranteed. Condors are scavengers, not birds hunting prey from the viewpoint.
If you enjoy demanding hiking, consider a multiday canyon trek. On the first day, you descend with views and photo opportunities, but the climb out makes this much harder than a viewpoint tour.
The grand mountains around you make the perfect background for any perfect image. The hike takes you along the bottom of the canyon, where you pass through tiny villages. You will encounter various types of fruit trees and plants typical to Peru.
At dusk, you might be lucky and see Condors crossing the valley.
On my hike, the ascent before sunrise brought changing views as the morning sun lit the peaks. The climb out is steep and sustained; confirm the elevation gain of your chosen route rather than treating all Colca treks as equivalent.
This is one of the absolute best hikes I have been on in South America so far.
Recommended by Linn from Brainy Backpackers
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Arequipa for connections; Chivay/Cabanaconde according to the route.
- Best for and time needed: Canyon views or demanding trekking; 2–3 days beyond Arequipa is a useful starting point.
- Admission and costs: Regional entry, transport, accommodation and guides may be separate. Confirm the applicable visitor category.
- Access and timing: A viewpoint trip and a canyon-floor trek have very different physical demands.
- Booking and transport: Check climb-out elevation gain and include altitude preparation; condors are never guaranteed.
Read the walking experience in our Colca Canyon trekking guide.
7. Mendoza, Argentina
Malbec has taken the world by storm, so what better place to visit in Argentina than the home of this smooth red varietal, Mendoza.
Mendoza can be combined with Buenos Aires or Santiago in Chile when flight schedules suit your route. Allow a proper travel day instead of counting only time in the air.
Once there, prepare yourself for a lot of wine tasting at Mendoza’s best wineries.
Chacras de Coria is one possible base for visiting wineries. Compare a driver, a guided outing or a cycle route with current winery reservations before deciding.
The wineries around this area offer views of the Andes. Arrange transport that does not require you to drive or cycle after drinking.
Mendoza’s most beautiful wine region is further from the city but worth every minute you spend in a car to get there.
The Uco Valley lies farther south. Journey times depend on the particular winery, so keep your reservations in a realistic geographic cluster.
Hire a private driver to usher you from winery to winery; you’ll need help driving after the generous wine tastings offered in Argentina.
My favorites on that visit included SuperUco. Treat this as a personal recommendation from an earlier trip and confirm the current visitor arrangements.
I also enjoyed lunch at Bodega La Azul in the Uco Valley. Verify its present reservation channel independently before making plans.
Its outdoor tables at the foot of the Andes made a memorable setting for that meal.
And don’t forget to buy a few bottles to bring home with you for the perfect souvenir.
Recommended by Erin from Sol Salute
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Mendoza city or a wine-country base near your selected wineries.
- Best for and time needed: Wine and long lunches; 3–4 nights.
- Admission and costs: Tastings, meals and private transport are usually separate unless a package specifies otherwise.
- Access and timing: Reserve individual winery visits; do not assume walk-in access.
- Booking and transport: Group appointments geographically and confirm a sober driver. Historical winery mentions are not current booking endorsements.
8. Torres del Paine, Chile
One of the most scenic landscapes in South America and one of the best places to visit in South America is far south in Patagonia.
Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia is known for its soaring granite mountains, snow-covered peaks, luminous blue icebergs that continue to cleave off glaciers that spill onto freezing glacial lakes.
The austere pampas grasslands that seem to roll on forever are home to wildlife that’s both rare and some that are rarely seen, as the mountain puma.
Guanacos graze across the open landscape; keep your distance and allow wildlife room to move.
Some of Torres del Paine’s most iconic sites are the horn-shaped peaks of Cuernos del Paine, a range of peaks that glow bright orange at sunrise, and the three granite towers, or Torres, which gives the Park its name.
Most visitors come to hike on their own or the Park’s famous W Trek, but a visit to Chilean Patagonia requires some planning and the right gear, depending on where and how you’ll be traveling.
Glacier conditions and trail access change. Read the current CONAF notices before choosing a route, particularly outside the main trekking season.
This is a destination for travelers willing to plan around weather, park access and accommodation availability. It is not a spontaneous extension to a short city break.
Recommended by Lori from Travlinmad
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Puerto Natales or confirmed park accommodation.
- Best for and time needed: Mountain scenery and trekking; several days, longer for a full circuit.
- Admission and costs: Buy the correct Pases Parques entry; camping/refugio reservations and transport are separate.
- Access and timing: CONAF currently lists the O circuit closed through October 31, 2026, subject to updates. Other trails have weather restrictions.
- Booking and transport: Secure every overnight stop before committing to a multiday trek; check current route bulletins.
For more detail, see our Torres del Paine hiking guide. Recheck today’s route notices before using any older itinerary.
9. Cajas National Park, Ecuador
Ecuador offers mountain landscapes as well as the Galápagos Islands.
Read also: Best things to do in Ecuador
Cajas National Park lies outside Cuenca. A mix of towering peaks, glassy lakes and trees with paper-like bark gives this place an otherworldly feel.
Cajas has a range of hiking routes, but the high altitude and changeable weather mean that no route should be assumed suitable for everyone.
Tres Cruces is one option to discuss with park staff or a qualified guide when choosing a route.
The high elevations require gradual acclimatization. Check the actual route altitude and forecast; do not continue upward if you develop altitude symptoms.
Without a doubt, one of the coolest things about Cajas National Park is the abundance of Polylepis trees there.
These trees, which are flaky in appearance, have earned them the nickname of paper trees.
Respect these slow-growing high-altitude woodlands and stay on designated paths.
Cajas can be visited as a day trip from Cuenca or visited independently. Tours are very easy to arrange from the majority of agencies in the city.
For camping, confirm current permitted areas, registration and conditions with ETAPA before setting out.
Recommended by Sheree from Winging the World
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Cuenca, Ecuador.
- Best for and time needed: High-altitude lakes and walking; a day trip with altitude preparation.
- Admission and costs: Confirm current entry/camping conditions; transport and guiding are separate services.
- Access and timing: ETAPA requires advance reservations for organized operator groups. Ask about your route and registration.
- Booking and transport: Choose a route for current weather and ability, not just its short distance on a map.
10. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
There is no other place on earth like the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.
Read also: The Guide to Land-Based Travel In The Galapagos Islands
The islands are home to many animal and plant species that exist nowhere else on earth.
These include giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Darwin’s finches. Which species you see depends on the island, activity and conditions.
Choose between a land-based stay and an expedition cruise. They offer different access and travel patterns, so compare the actual islands and visitor sites rather than only the number of days.
The islands offer plenty of opportunities to witness one-of-a-kind wildlife while snorkeling, hiking, biking, and more.
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Choose islands and airport around the land-based or cruise route.
- Best for and time needed: Wildlife on land and in the water; 7–10 days for a land-based outline.
- Admission and costs: Published conservation fee: US$200 for most nonresident foreign visitors over 12; reduced categories apply. Transit card and tours are additional.
- Access and timing: Visitor-site and guide rules apply. Check documents, biosecurity and island connections before departure.
- Booking and transport: Compare actual island/site access. Avoid paying for a day tour already covered by your cruise.
11. San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
San Pedro De Atacama and the nearby Moon Valley are well worth visiting if you are traveling to Chile. I fell in love with the quirky little town, full of fancy restaurants and quirky art galleries.
It’s the sort of place where you might see a cowboy and his horse casually strutting down the main street. There are so many things to do in San Pedro De Atacama, and beyond, you certainly won’t get bored.
One of the most popular day trips is to see The Moon Valley: the Atacama desert scenery is literally out of this world.
Watching the sunset over the rocky lunar-like landscape is an absolute must!
You can also take guided desert excursions and visit hot springs. Crossing into Bolivia is a separate international journey with border formalities and high-altitude logistics, not a casual add-on to a local day trip.
At night as well as enjoying one of the many incredible restaurants, you will also get the opportunity to enjoy some stargazing at one of the best places in the world to see stars! Sadly it was a full moon when I was there, but I hope you have more luck!
Recommended by Leanne from The Globetrotter GP
Plan this stop
- Base and location: San Pedro de Atacama via Calama airport.
- Best for and time needed: Desert landscapes and astronomy; 3–4 nights.
- Admission and costs: Compare local entrance charges, transfers and guide inclusions for each excursion.
- Access and timing: Routes vary greatly in elevation; weather and moonlight affect experiences.
- Booking and transport: Start with a suitable local outing; high-altitude lagoons or a Bolivia crossing need separate planning.
The Moon Valley tour below lists about 4.5 hours with an English/Spanish guide. Its page says entrance fees are included for bookings made from October 1, 2026; older bookings exclude them. Pickup and meeting-point wording differs across the listing, so confirm both the final meeting instructions and return endpoint. This is a desert sightseeing outing, not a high-altitude lagoon or Bolivia trip.
12. Kaieteur Falls, Guyana
There is little doubt that one of the most incredible places to visit in South America, if not in the whole world, is Kaietur Falls.
Located in the rainforest of Guyana, Kaieteur is a major single-drop waterfall on the Potaro River.
Access normally involves a flight-based excursion or a separately arranged multiday overland expedition. Aircraft, group sizes and schedules vary by operator; weather can affect departures.
The flight is simply spectacular and provides jaw-dropping views of Kaieteur Falls from above.
Once at the site, a guide welcomes the passengers and takes them on a walk around the premises, through the forest (where it’s possible to see several species of birds, including the colorful cock of the rock, as well as plants), and to the main viewpoints.
Do not assume your group will be the only visitors. Stay with the guide and follow the instructions at viewpoints, where exposed edges require care.
It’s not a cheap place to visit, but completely worth the money.
Recommended by Claudia from My Adventures Across The World
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Georgetown is a common flight-tour base in Guyana.
- Best for and time needed: Remote waterfall scenery; keep a flexible excursion day and a weather buffer.
- Admission and costs: Compare charter seat, guide and park/landing fees; group minimums can affect departures.
- Access and timing: Flights are weather-dependent; guided viewpoint walks cross uneven terrain.
- Booking and transport: Ask how weather cancellation and an unmet flight minimum are handled before paying.
13. Rapa Nui: a Chile itinerary extension
Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is geographically in Polynesia in the South Pacific. It belongs politically to Chile and is included here as a possible extension to a Chile itinerary, not as part of mainland South America.
Easter Island, locally known as Rapa Nui, conjures up the idea of a mysterious and mythical place for many.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the island is constantly the subject of study and restoration projects looking to unearth more of its history.
Rapa Nui is known for its moai, stone figures that are much more than the “heads” they are sometimes called. Visit archaeological sites with the required local guidance and respect barriers.
Some of the Highlights of Easter Island are the Moai “birthplace” at Rano Raraku quarry, Ahu Tahai and Ahu Tongariki platforms, the dormant Rano Kau volcano, and Anakena Beach: a white-sand beach on the island.
Don’t miss the humble but overwhelming Anthropological Easter Island Museum, not far from the capital of Hanga Roa.
At this museum, you’ll learn more about the Rapanui culture, as well as see some rare artifacts related to the Moais and Easter Isnald’s mythical creation.
Certified divers can ask local operators about suitable dives and current conditions. Diving is separate from national-park sightseeing and should be planned according to experience and qualifications.
Plan the flight connection through Santiago using the current airline schedule. Do not rely on the old Tahiti route or a fixed journey time.
Either way, it demonstrates how remote this island is, but it is one of the top bucket list destinations in South America.
Recommended by Halef and Michael from The Round The World Guys
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Hanga Roa on Rapa Nui, a separate Pacific island leg via Chile.
- Best for and time needed: Rapa Nui culture and archaeology; 4–5 nights plus travel.
- Admission and costs: Flights, accommodation, park ticket and required guiding need separate budgeting.
- Access and timing: Check the FUI entry form, return travel and accommodation documents; archaeological sites require accredited guidance.
- Booking and transport: Confirm airline routing and park access before booking nonrefundable arrangements.
14. Jardín, Colombia
If you are going to be in South America and thinking of passing through Colombia, you won’t want to miss out on Jardin.
Read also: Why Colombia Should be Your Next Travel Destination.
For me, it has been one of the best towns in Colombia to visit. Here you’ll get a taste of local coffee, traditional architecture and the laid-back way of life.
The journey from Medellín follows mountain roads. Confirm the current bus timetable and leave room for delays rather than relying on a fixed three-hour journey.
On arrival, you’ll get a feel for how Paisa’s culture lives. There are various activities, from coffee tours to horseback riding and some amazing hikes that you can do out in the open countryside.
If you are learning Spanish, this is the perfect place to be able to practice with locals. I recommend between 2-3 nights here to really get a feel for the town and to be able to enjoy some of the excursions on offer.
So, if it wasn’t already, Jardin should now be on your list of best places to visit in South America if you are traveling to Colombia.
Recommended by Daniel from Layer Culture
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Jardín, Antioquia; connect from Medellín.
- Best for and time needed: Coffee culture and small-town time; 2–3 nights.
- Admission and costs: Coffee visits, rural guides and transport are individually priced.
- Access and timing: Book rooms ahead for weekends and holidays; mountain-road delays can occur.
- Booking and transport: Stay overnight rather than spending most of a short day trip on the bus.
15. Cali, Colombia
Cali is one of Colombia’s leading cities for salsa, with dance schools, live music and clubs at the heart of a visit.
Salsa is very much part of the nightlife in Cali, and a class can help beginners join in.
Tin Tin Deo was one of the salsa venues recommended in the original account. Confirm current opening and programming before planning a night around any particular club.
Learning a little Colombian slang can help with conversations. You do not need to drink alcohol to take part in the dance scene.
If you prefer watching, look for a salsa performance or check the city’s current festival calendar.
The dancers’ fast, precise footwork is the reason to make time for a performance; dates and venues need to be confirmed for your trip.
Recommended by Ayngelina from Bacon is Magic
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Cali, Colombia.
- Best for and time needed: Salsa lessons and performances; 2–3 nights.
- Admission and costs: Classes, club entry and shows have separate prices and schedules.
- Access and timing: Confirm the current venue program; arrange trusted transport after dark.
- Booking and transport: Choose a beginner class if you want to participate, or a seated show if you prefer watching.
16. Salento, Colombia
While visitors to Colombian cities like Medellín, Bogotá, and Cartagena will discover the country’s lively culture, those who make it to Salento will entirely discover another world.
Read also: Best things to do in Bogotá, Colombia
It was definitely one of our favorite towns we visited during our three weeks in Colombia. Salento is nestled in the coffee region of Colombia and surrounded by green rolling hills and babbling rivers.
The colorful town is a lovely spot to relax for a few days, and there are many things to do to keep you busy.
The main plaza is busy with food options. Be sure to try a local dish of trucha, or trout, and the patacones, which are unlike other areas.
Take a walk up to the mirador above town for a fantastic view. This is the perfect place to learn about the world-renowned Colombian coffee with a coffee plantation tour.
A coffee-farm visit can explain production and include tastings. Check the selected farm’s program rather than assuming harvesting or hands-on work is always offered.
Salento is also the jumping-off point for the distinctive Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora). Visitors can hike through pastures, across streams, and climb mountains for incredible views in all directions.
The valley’s tall wax palms are a reason to come. Choose a permitted walking route and check private-land fees, weather and trail conditions before starting.
Nightlife in Salento is rather limited, but a few local bars are a great spot to absorb the local culture over a beer.
Learn the traditional Colombian game of tejo, basically like horseshoes with gunpowder, or play some pool with new friends.
Salento offers a slower break from Bogotá and Medellín, but the journey needs its own planning and travel time.
Recommended by Claire from Past the Potholes
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Salento, with connections through the coffee region.
- Best for and time needed: Coffee farms and Cocora Valley; 2–3 nights.
- Admission and costs: Farm tours, Cocora transport and private trail access may cost separately.
- Access and timing: Trail conditions change with rain; check route access and return transport.
- Booking and transport: Choose the actual walking circuit before comparing tour prices or difficulty.
17. Huascarán National Park, Peru
There are many beautiful best places to visit in South America, but the one which I could hardly ever forget is Huascaran National Park in Peru.
Huaraz is the usual base for the Cordillera Blanca. Plan the current bus or flight connection separately from the travel time to each trailhead.
Read also: Best things to do in Lima, Peru
This park covers snowy peaks of the Cordillera Blanca and attracts hikers and mountaineers. Technical climbs such as Alpamayo require specialist preparation and guiding; they are not ordinary day hikes.
Santa Cruz is one of the region’s established treks. The Cordillera Huayhuash is a separate mountain range, so do not treat that trek as part of Huascarán National Park.
Chavín de Huántar is a separate archaeological excursion in Áncash, not a stop inside the national park. Allow its own travel time if it interests you.
Other options include the Pastoruri area, stands of Puya raimondii and mountain lakes of different sizes and colors. Some viewpoints have road access, but altitude and walking requirements still matter.
Read about the 8 most beautiful mountain lakes near Huaraz here. Whether you are a city person, lover of history, or outdoor activities, Huaraz and Huascaran will inscribe into your heart just like they did into mine.
Recommended by Tereza from czickontheroad
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Huaraz, Áncash, Peru.
- Best for and time needed: Andean hiking; several days for gradual acclimatization and a chosen route.
- Admission and costs: PROMPERÚ lists a reference foreign-visitor day entry of S/30; check current SERNANP ticket terms and multiday rates.
- Access and timing: May–October is PROMPERÚ’s suggested drier season; route access still depends on conditions.
- Booking and transport: Distinguish a road-access viewpoint, high trek and technical climb. Huayhuash and Chavín are separate excursions.
18. Machu Picchu, Peru
Everyone’s heard of Machu Picchu by now: the famous Inca ruins in southern Peru.
My friend Kris came down to see me in Peru, and we made the trip together for the first time.
The standard visitor journey is by train to Machu Picchu Pueblo, followed by a bus or uphill walk to the entrance. Trekking routes need their own arrangements and permits.
On our earlier trip, Kris and I traveled part of the way by motorcycle and continued on foot. That is a personal memory, not a current route recommendation; access and permitted paths must be checked independently.
Thousands of people spend hours on planes, trains, and buses every year, and a lot of money to visit this historic landmark, but is Machu Picchu worth it?
And my answer is… Absolutely!
Highly visited, but not at all overrated, Machu Picchu, in my opinion, is a destination not to miss while in South America.
Choose and secure the official entrance route and time first, then match trains, accommodation and transfers to that reservation.
Do not rely on last-minute entry being available. Different routes and mountain add-ons have their own inventory and conditions.
Kris and I found accommodation at short notice on that trip, but I would not use our experience as a booking strategy today.
We had an amazing time at Machu Picchu: and I’m confident you will too.
Recommended by Paul from Travel is Life
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Machu Picchu Pueblo/Aguas Calientes, reached from Cusco/Sacred Valley.
- Best for and time needed: Inca archaeology; dedicate its own travel day or overnight leg.
- Admission and costs: Entry route/time, train, final transfer and guide are separate unless a package explicitly combines them.
- Access and timing: Use the official entry process and ticketed route; last-minute admission is not guaranteed.
- Booking and transport: Secure entry first, then coordinate transport. A train ticket alone is not a full visit.
19. Bariloche, Argentina
San Carlos de Bariloche is a city in the Patagonia region in Argentina, sitting on Nahuel Huapi Lake and settling in the Andean Mountains’ foothills.
This region is well-known for its raw and wild natural landscapes, but Bariloche is a Patagonian gem where you can find more than that.
While during the winter it is a popular ski destination, in summer, it is all about relaxing on the lake or hiking around the city.
Bariloche has some European vibe thanks to its city center’s Alpine-style architecture, where all the action happens.
Chocolate shops are part of the city-center experience, and you may catch the smell of melted chocolate while walking down the street.
Around the city, you can find relaxing beaches and many hikes that uncover incredible views (and not all are difficult). You can also enjoy other outdoor activities such as kayaking, biking, and rafting.
For a road trip, consider the Ruta de los Siete Lagos. The named section runs between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes, with Bariloche a common starting base. Allow at least a full excursion day, or stay overnight for more stops, and check road conditions.
You can see why Bariloche is where every type of traveler can find something to enjoy, so if it’s not yet on your South America bucket list, now is the time to add it.
Recommended by Or from My Path In The World
Plan this stop
- Base and location: San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentine Lake District.
- Best for and time needed: Lakes, walks and scenic drives; 3–4 nights.
- Admission and costs: Budget separately for park access where applicable, excursions, rentals and ski activities.
- Access and timing: Seasonal road and mountain conditions change; skiing and summer hiking are different trips.
- Booking and transport: Allow a full day for a Seven Lakes outing; overnighting gives more room for stops.
20. Pantanal, Brazil
The Pantanal, in west-central South America, offers a different wildlife experience from the Amazon. In Brazil, choose the northern or southern gateway according to your lodge and activities.
The Pantanal is the world’s largest wetlands area and is home to capybaras, caimans, jaguars, anteaters, and many other species of South American animals.
Whereas in the Amazon, the animals often stay hidden in the jungle, the Pantanal is full of grassy plains and wide-open spaces.
Those open habitats can make wildlife easier to spot on a Pantanal tour. Birdlife is a major draw, but no particular sighting is guaranteed.
Hyacinth macaws, toucans and jabiru storks are among the region’s birds. Ask a specialist guide which habitats and season fit your interests.
Compare the exact wildlife program: a general lodge stay is not automatically a dedicated jaguar boat safari.
Water levels, drought, smoke and access can affect the experience. Confirm current local conditions with the lodge before committing to travel dates.
Recommended by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Northern or southern Pantanal lodge, according to the exact itinerary.
- Best for and time needed: Wildlife guiding and photography; 3–5 nights or longer.
- Admission and costs: Compare meals, airport/road/boat transfers, guiding and specialist safaris in the package total.
- Access and timing: Flooding, drought, smoke and road conditions can alter access; sightings cannot be promised.
- Booking and transport: Choose a program for your target wildlife, not a general promise of seeing everything.
21. Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru, was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the gateway to the most important Inca sites in the region.
The city itself is fascinating and is full of life and color. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in South America.
You will see many indigenous Quechua people here in their traditional dress. Sit on a park bench and watch the locals strolling in the main square, known as the Plaza de Armas, in the late afternoon.
Most travelers use Cusco as a jumping-off point to explore the world-famous ruined Incan city of Machu Picchu. Still, you should definitely take a few days to explore Cusco itself and the other less touristed sites nearby.
The layers of history here are immediately obvious when you wander Cusco’s stone-lined alleyways.
Take a look at the walls around you, and you will see many different layers of stonework on the buildings from different periods.
One famous example is the 12-angled Inca stone, fitted into the surrounding masonry without mortar.
There’s plenty of Spanish colonial architecture, which was often built next to or even on top of ancient Incan sites.
Don’t miss the magnificent church of Santo Domingo, which was built on the site of an Incan temple. The ancient stone wall surrounding the church is remarkable.
There’s also a lively, tourist-fueled nightlife and plenty of good restaurants, including some that serve vegetarian and vegan Peruvian food.
Sacsayhuaman lies above the city. The uphill walk can be demanding at altitude; a vehicle transfer avoids that approach but not all walking inside the site.
Recommended by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Cusco and the Sacred Valley, Peru.
- Best for and time needed: Inca and colonial history; several nights, with Machu Picchu separate.
- Admission and costs: Compare the COSITUC integral or partial ticket with your chosen ruins. Maras and Machu Picchu are excluded.
- Access and timing: Altitude, steps and hills affect sightseeing; begin gently and check individual site hours.
- Booking and transport: Check whether a guided tour already includes admission before buying another pass.
Use our Cusco sights and day-trip guide to choose between city time and valley excursions. The tour below lists roughly ten hours, transport, guiding and lunch. Admission depends on the selected option; Maras and Moray are not listed. Avoid buying a second ticket for sites already covered by your pass.
22. Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil
No matter how many waterfalls you have seen in your lifetime, you are sure to be completely blown away by the waterfalls at Iguazu.
The falls straddle the border between Brazil and Argentina, and both sides can be visited. I recommend taking at least two full days to see both sides, as you’ll have a very different experience at each one.
Most of the falls are on the Argentine side and are protected by the Iguazú National Park of Argentina.
When visiting this park, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the falls and be awed by the power of the water thundering all around you.
There is a lot to do here, including several walking trails that will take you to different vantage points to view the falls from the top and from below.
The Garganta del Diablo, or “Devil’s Throat,” is a highlight for many visitors. Check whether its access route is open, as water levels and maintenance can affect the walkways.
But don’t write off the Brazilian side just yet! I may be in the minority, but I actually prefer this side. From here, you can enjoy spectacular vistas as you look across the river at the falls in Argentina and admire them from afar.
Yes, you’re a bit further away from all the action, but this is the only way to take it all in at once and get a panoramic, sweeping view of this magnificent work of nature.
Recommended by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan
Plan this stop
- Base and location: Puerto Iguazú in Argentina or Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil.
- Best for and time needed: Waterfalls from two perspectives; two full days plus arrival/departure.
- Admission and costs: Each country’s park has its own admission. Boats and cross-border transfers may be extra.
- Access and timing: Brazil sells dated/time-slot tickets online; check both parks’ current walkway notices.
- Booking and transport: Check passport/visa requirements for both countries before buying cross-border activities.
Argentina-side visitor information
Build a route you can enjoy
- Peru, about two weeks: combine Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with either Arequipa/Colca or one Amazon lodge. Include travel and gradual altitude adjustment instead of forcing both extensions.
- Ecuador, about two weeks: choose mainland time around Baños or Cuenca/Cajas, then a planned Galápagos stay. Mainland distances and island flights deserve separate travel days.
- Southern Patagonia: connect El Calafate and Torres del Paine only after confirming cross-border transport and accommodation. Adding Bariloche is another major travel leg, not a neighboring stop.
- Colombia: pair Medellín and Jardín, or build a coffee-region stay around Salento with Cali. Choose connections before adding more cities.
These are editorial route outlines, not fixed packages. Brazil, Guyana and Rapa Nui also reward dedicated planning; do not bolt them onto another route simply because they appear in the same list.
Timing, costs and accommodation
Set dates around your main activity. Huascarán’s tourism board suggests May–October for drier hiking weather, while southern Patagonia has its own seasonal services and winter restrictions. Island trips, tropical wetlands and high Andes routes should not share one blanket “best month” recommendation. Check the destination source linked in each box.
Budget from a real route: international and domestic transport, nights, meals, guide days, park fees, equipment and transfers. Do not compare an Amazon lodge including meals and boats with a city room rate. For a splurge, pay for useful guiding, a better location or included logistics rather than an undefined luxury label.
Choose accommodation around your next departure and the kind of stay you want: a city base for markets, an island base for boat departures, or a lodge for a structured wildlife program. Confirm luggage storage, early breakfast, transfer coverage and cancellation if access changes.
For Andean travel, fitness does not prevent altitude illness. Plan gradual ascent and seek individualized medical advice for high-altitude or remote travel. Do not ascend with symptoms; worsening symptoms require descent and medical help. See CDC altitude guidance.
South America trip planning FAQs
Where should I go on a first trip to South America?
Choose by interest and connections. Cusco and the Sacred Valley work for Inca history; Colombia’s coffee towns for a slower stay; Patagonia for a planned hiking trip. One country or a compact regional combination is a more useful starting point than trying to cover the continent in two weeks.
How long do you need for South America?
There is no single useful duration for the entire continent. Two weeks can suit a focused country or regional route, with travel days included. Several countries, remote islands and multiday treks require substantially more time. Treat the 22 destinations as choices rather than a checklist.
When is the best time to visit South America?
Choose your main destination before choosing dates. High-Andes hiking, Patagonian trails, island wildlife and tropical wetlands follow different conditions. Read park notices as well as climate advice. A month that suits one region may bring closures or less suitable conditions in another.
Is South America safe for tourists?
Conditions differ by country, region and even neighborhood. Check current official advice for each stop and your exact route, use established transport providers, and ask locally about areas and travel after dark. Do not treat a country-wide label or an older traveler account as a current safety assessment.
Should I choose the Amazon or Pantanal?
Choose an Amazon lodge for a rainforest stay and the Pantanal for its wetland habitats and specialist wildlife programs. Neither guarantees particular animals. Compare the actual lodge location, guide time and activities, including whether a dedicated jaguar outing is included, rather than choosing by a broad wildlife promise.
Do I need a cruise to visit the Galápagos?
No. A land-based itinerary is another approach, using island accommodation and selected excursions. Cruises and land stays do not visit identical places, so compare the actual visitor sites. Park fees, the transit card, flights and inter-island arrangements must be considered in the total budget.
Can I visit both sides of Iguazú Falls?
Yes, with the entry documents required for both Argentina and Brazil. Allow two full days for a less rushed visit. Each park has its own ticket, and a tour operating on one side does not necessarily include the other side, border transport or optional boat rides.
Is Rapa Nui in South America?
Geographically, Rapa Nui is in Polynesia in the South Pacific. It belongs politically to Chile and is often planned as an extension through Santiago. It requires separate flight planning and island entry formalities, so it should not be treated as a mainland South America stop.
Which activities should I book first?
Prioritize restricted entry and the logistics around it: Machu Picchu route/time tickets, multiday park accommodation, remote lodges and island flights. Then add local outings. Check inclusions to avoid buying the same admission twice, and leave weather flexibility where possible.
More South America planning guides
One of the best places to visit in South America is the SALAR DE UYUNI, THE SALT FLATS IN BOLIVIA. Another great adventure is CYCLING ON THE DEATH ROAD IN BOLIVIA.
The Galapagos Islands are one of the most famous island archipelagos in the world. Check out my 10-DAY LAND-BASED ITINERARY GALAPAGOS ISLANDS.
One of my favorite cities in South America is RIO DE JANEIRO, and one of the best countries for adventure tours is ECUADOR.
For another Andean route, explore our Bolivia travel ideas.
- About the Author
- More info
Tim Kroeger is the founder and editor of Universal Traveller, covering luxury stays and active travel. Based in Bangkok, he draws on 15+ years of travel across 112+ countries, from reviewing luxury hotels to bikepacking through Southeast Asia. He also writes about luxury wellness and longevity travel at tim-kroeger.com, where he developed the Restorative Index.
Many of the popular tourist attractions and breathtaking scenery are high in the mountains. Never miss mountains while you make a trip to South America.
Wonderful suggestions! Love the incredible natural wonders of this part of the world which are hard to resist for those with the travel bug! Colca Canyon is definitely at the top of my bucket list!
South America is truly blessed with wonderful nature and places. I want to visit in this order: Peru, Brazil and Argentina.
Great post Tim!!
So many places that I want to visit, OMG.
Thank you of putting them all together ;)
Cheers