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Why These Are the Best Places to Visit in South America
South America is a continent known for its incredible natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes. Choosing the best places to visit in South America can feel overwhelming with so many options, but this ranked list makes it easy. From the lush Amazon rainforest to the soaring Andes Mountains and the vibrant cities of Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, there is no shortage of amazing destinations to explore in this part of the world. Whether you are interested in history, adventure, or just soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, South America has something for everyone. Here are the top 15 best places to visit in South America, each with a brief introduction:
For travelers weighing the two Andean gateways before committing to a route, the Ecuador vs Peru comparison breaks that decision down by cost, altitude, and signature experience.
This guide pairs with the rest of our South America planning series: the best time to visit South America month by month, three researched South America itinerary routes, the twelve South America landmarks worth planning around, and country deep dives from the best time to visit Peru to Salar de Uyuni tours and Patagonia tours.
Peru now has a dedicated country hub as well: the Peru travel guide gathers the routes, timing and practical answers in one place.
19. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is a stunningly beautiful city located in the northern coast of Colombia, South America. It ranks among the best places to visit in South America and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and attracts visitors from all over the world. The city is steeped in history, having been founded in 1533 and serving as an important Spanish colonial port. Today, its well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most well-preserved examples of colonial architecture in the Americas.
Cartagena is famous for its vibrant colors, from the pastel-hued colonial buildings to the bright clothing worn by the locals. It has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year, making it an ideal location for those seeking sun and sand. The city is also surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, offering stunning views and easy access to nearby beaches.
18. Siete lagos, Argentina
Siete Lagos, also known as Seven Lakes, is one of the best places to visit in South America, a picturesque region located in the Andes mountains of Argentina’s Patagonia region. The area is named after the seven crystal-clear lakes that are located within it, and is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities.
The region is located within the Nahuel Huapi National Park, which covers an area of over 7,000 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including Andean condors, pumas, and guanacos. The lakes themselves are surrounded by towering mountains, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls, offering visitors breathtaking views at every turn.
The Siete Lagos region is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and one of the best places to visit in South America for nature lovers, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking. The lakes themselves are popular spots for swimming and boating during the summer months, while the surrounding mountains offer a range of hiking trails for all skill levels.
17. Los Glaciales National Park, Argentina
Los Glaciares is easily one of the best places to visit in South America. The park is named after the glaciers that cover a large portion of its territory. These glaciers are a unique natural phenomenon, with the Perito Moreno Glacier being one of the few glaciers in the world that is actually growing. Visitors to the park can witness the spectacular sight of chunks of ice breaking off from the glacier and crashing into the water below.
The park also contains several lakes, including the stunning Lago Argentino, which is the largest freshwater lake in Argentina — a sight that alone makes this one of the best places to visit in South America. Visitors can take boat tours of the lake, offering stunning views of the glaciers and surrounding mountains
15. Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Tayrona National Park is one of the best places to visit in South America and a stunningly beautiful protected area located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, South America. The park covers an area of over 150 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including beaches, coral reefs, rainforests, and mangrove swamps.
The park is named after the indigenous Tayrona people who once inhabited the region, and is known for its rich cultural heritage and archaeological sites. Visitors to the park can explore ancient ruins and learn about the indigenous history and traditions of the area.
Tayrona National Park is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in South America, making it one of the best places to visit in South America for beach lovers, including the famous Cabo San Juan Beach. These beaches offer visitors crystal-clear waters, white sand, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rainforest.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Tayrona National Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and snorkeling. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
16. Ushuaia, Argentina
Ushuaia is a charming city located at the southern tip of Argentina and one of the best places to visit in South America for adventure seekers, in the region of Tierra del Fuego. It is known as the “end of the world” due to its location at the southernmost point of the South American continent. Ushuaia is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the snow-capped Andes mountains and the Beagle Channel, a popular destination for wildlife watching.
The city has a rich history as a former penal colony and is home to several museums and historic sites, such as the Museo Marítimo y del Presidio, which explores the history of the prison and the surrounding region. Ushuaia is also the gateway to the Antarctic region, and many expeditions to the continent begin here.
15. Quito, Ecuador
Quito is the capital city of Ecuador, located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, and it is one of the best places to visit in South America for culture and history. The city is known for its rich history, stunning colonial architecture and vibrant culture. At a height of more than 2,800 meters above sea level, it is also one of the highest capitals in the world. Visit this wonderful place on a day tour of Quito.
Quito’s historic center, known as the “Old Town,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s colonial churches, museums, and plazas, such as the Plaza de la Independencia and the Church of the Society of Jesus.
In addition to its cultural attractions, As one of the best places to visit in South America, Quito is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The city is situated in the Andean mountain range and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Visitors can take a cable car up to the top of Pichincha Volcano for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Quito is also a hub for ecotourism, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and visiting nearby nature reserves like the Mindo Cloud Forest. The city is also famous for its cuisine, including traditional dishes like ceviche and hornado.
14. Colca Canyon, Peru
Colca Canyon is a spectacular natural attraction located in southern Peru and one of the best places to visit in South America for dramatic landscapes. With a depth of over 3,400 meters, it is considered one of the deepest canyons in the world, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The canyon is also home to the Andean Condor, one of the largest birds in the world, which can often be seen soaring overhead.
Visitors to Colca Canyon can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and birdwatching. The canyon is also home to several traditional Andean villages, where visitors can learn about the local culture and traditions.
One of the most popular attractions in Colca Canyon is the Cruz del Condor, a lookout point that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is an ideal spot for observing the Andean Condors in flight.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Colca Canyon is also known for its hot springs — another reason it ranks among the best places to visit in South America, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. Visitors can relax and unwind in the natural pools while enjoying the stunning views of the canyon.
13. Coffe Axis, Colombia
Eje Cafetero, also known as the Coffee Axis, is a region in the central Andean region of Colombia known for its production of high-quality coffee and widely considered one of the best places to visit in South America for food and culture. The region is made up of three departments: Caldas, Quindio, and Risaralda.
The area is characterized by its rolling hills, lush green valleys, and charming towns. Visitors can take tours of coffee plantations and learn about the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans.
Eje Cafetero is also home to several natural parks, including the Los Nevados National Natural Park and the Otun Quimbaya Fauna and Flora Sanctuary. These parks offer some of the best places to visit in South America for hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.
12. Angel Falls, Venezuela
Angel Falls is one of the best places to visit in South America and a stunning natural wonder located in the Canaima National Park in Venezuela. With a height of over 3,200 feet, it is considered the tallest waterfall in the world, and its mist and spray can be seen from miles away.
The falls are named after Jimmy Angel, an American aviator who discovered the falls in the 1930s. Today, the falls are a popular destination for tourists and adventurers, with several guided tours and excursions available.
Angel Falls is a must on any list of the best places to visit in South America. Visitors can explore the falls by taking a scenic flight over the park, hiking through the jungle to reach the base of the falls, or taking a boat tour on the nearby rivers. The surrounding landscape is also home to a wealth of wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, and a variety of bird species.
11. Cusco, Perú
Cusco is a historic city located in the southeastern region of Peru, at an altitude of over 11,000 feet above sea level. It was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is now considered the gateway to the famous Machu Picchu.
The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and its mix of Inca and Spanish cultural influences. Visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets and ancient ruins, such as the famous Sacsayhuaman fortress and the Qorikancha temple.
Cusco is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including the Inti Raymi, a traditional Inca festival held every June.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Cusco is also a popular destination for adventure tourism and one of the best places to visit in South America for trekking, with many opportunities for hiking, trekking, and other outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains and valleys.
10. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The Salar de Uyuni is a vast salt flat located in southwest Bolivia, near the Andes Mountains. It is the largest salt flat in the world, covering over 10,000 square kilometers of otherworldly landscape. It is consistently ranked among the best places to visit in South Americas.
The Salar de Uyuni is a popular tourist destination due to its unique and surreal scenery, with endless expanses of white salt crusts, towering cacti, and striking geological formations. During the rainy season, the salt flat becomes flooded, creating a giant mirror-like surface that reflects the sky and surrounding landscapes.
The area is also home to several indigenous communities, including the Uyuni people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about their traditions, customs, and way of life through cultural tours and homestays.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, the Salar de Uyuni is also a prime location for stargazing, making it one of the best places to visit in South America at night due to its remote location and clear skies. The area is home to several telescopes and observatories, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the cosmos.
9. Lake Titicaca, Perú and Bolivia
Lake Titicaca is a large freshwater lake located in the Andean region of South America, on the border between Peru and Bolivia — one of the best places to visit in South America for its cultural significance. It is considered the highest navigable lake in the world, with an altitude of over 12,500 feet above sea level.
The lake is a major tourist destination, known for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the lake’s many islands, including the famous floating Uros Islands, which are made entirely out of reeds.
The region surrounding Lake Titicaca is also home to several traditional Andean communities, which is why it remains among the best places to visit in South America for authentic cultural experiences, including the Quechua and Aymara peoples. Visitors can learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life through cultural tours and homestays.
8. Ica, Peru
Ica is a city located in the southwestern region of Peru, known for its rich history, culture, and natural attractions — and one of the best places to visit in South America off the beaten path. The city is situated in the middle of the desert and is surrounded by sand dunes and oasis.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the area is the Huacachina Oasis, a picturesque lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. Visitors can take sandboarding and dune buggy tours, as well as enjoy a variety of water sports.
Ica is also known for its wine and Pisco production, with several wineries and distilleries in the area offering tours and tastings. The city is home to the oldest winery in South America, the Tacama Winery, which has been in operation since the 16th century.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Ica is also known for its archaeological sites, including the Paracas and Nazca lines, which make this area one of the best places to visit in South America for history buffs. These ancient geoglyphs and figures are believed to have been created by the Nazca culture between 400 and 650 AD.
7. Amazon Rain Forest of South America
The Amazon Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest in the world, covering over 6.7 million square kilometers across nine countries in South America, making it one of the best places to visit in South America for wildlife and biodiversity. It is home to an incredible array of biodiversity, with millions of species of plants, animals, and insects.
The rainforest plays a vital role in regulating the Earth’s climate, as it absorbs and stores large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. It is also home to many indigenous communities who have lived in harmony with the forest for thousands of years.
Visitors to the Amazon can explore the region’s many national parks and reserves, such as the Yasuni National Park in Ecuador and the Madidi National Park in Bolivia. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and cultural experiences.
One of the most famous attractions in the Amazon is the Amazon River, which is the largest river in the world by volume and one of the best places to visit in South America by boat and flows for over 6,400 kilometers. Visitors can take boat tours along the river, observing the rich wildlife and plant life along the way.
6. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Torres del Paine National Park is a protected area located in the Patagonia region of Chile. It is widely regarded as one of the best places to visit in South America, known for its stunning natural beauty, featuring towering granite peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and vast expanses of pristine wilderness.
The park covers an area of over 242,000 hectares and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including guanacos, pumas, and Andean condors. It is also known for its iconic landmarks, such as the three granite towers (Torres del Paine) that give the park its name.
Visitors to Torres del Paine — one of the best places to visit in South America for trekking — can explore the park’s diverse landscapes through a network of hiking trails and guided tours. The park offers a range of experiences, from multi-day treks through rugged terrain to leisurely walks around tranquil lakes.
5. La Macarena, Colombia
The National Park of La Macarena is a protected area located in the Meta Department of Colombia. It is home to a vast array of unique flora and fauna, including several endemic species. La Macarena is one of the best places to visit in South America for unique ecosystems that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
The park covers an area of over 650,000 hectares and features diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, waterfalls, and savannas. It is also home to the Caño Cristales, or “River of Five Colors,” which is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in the world.
Visitors to the National Park of La Macarena can explore the Caño Cristales and surrounding natural landscapes through guided tours and hiking trails, confirming why this is one of the best places to visit in South America. The park offers opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and cultural experiences, with several indigenous communities living within the park’s boundaries.
4. Iguazu Falls, Brazil and Argentina
Iguazu Falls is a natural wonder located on the border of Argentina and Brazil. It is a series of cascading waterfalls that span over 2.7 kilometers, making it one of the largest waterfall systems in the world and undeniably one of the best places to visit in South America.
The falls are situated within a protected area known as Iguazu National Park, which covers over 250,000 hectares of pristine rainforest. The park is home to a vast array of unique flora and fauna, including several endangered species such as jaguars and giant otters.
Visitors to Iguazu Falls can experience the majestic beauty of the waterfalls through a series of walking trails and boat tours. As one of the best places to visit in South America, the park offers a range of experiences, from adrenaline-pumping speedboat rides to tranquil walks through the rainforest.
In addition to its natural beauty, Iguazu Falls also has cultural significance, with several indigenous communities living within the park’s boundaries. Visitors can learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage through guided tours and educational programs.
3. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant city located on the coast of Brazil and one of the best places to visit in South America for nightlife and culture. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.
The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a fusion of European, African, and indigenous influences. This is reflected in the city’s music, cuisine, and architecture.
Visitors to Rio de Janeiro can experience the city’s lively atmosphere through a range of activities, including beach volleyball, samba dancing, and sampling the local cuisine. The city is also home to several world-class museums and cultural institutions.
One of the highlights of Rio de Janeiro is the annual Carnival celebration, which attracts millions of visitors from around the world. The colorful parade features elaborate costumes, music, and dancing, and is a celebration of Brazil’s rich cultural heritage.
2. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands are a group of volcanic islands located off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. They are famous for their unique ecosystem and rank #2 on our list of best places to visit in South America and played an important role in the development of the theory of evolution.
The islands are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions and penguins. Many of these species are endemic, meaning they are not found anywhere else in the world.
Visitors to the Galapagos Islands can experience the unique beauty of the islands through a variety of activities — the reason so many travelers consider this one of the best places to visit in South America —, including guided tours, snorkeling, and diving. The islands’ protected status ensures that visitors can enjoy the wildlife and natural beauty without harming the fragile ecosystem. Here you can find out about the different excursions to these Beautiful Enchanted Islands.
1. Machu Picchu, Perú
Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located high in the Andes mountains of Peru. It is considered one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites and attracts millions of visitors each year, making it the #1 best place to visit in South America on our list.
The city was built in the 15th century and was abandoned just over 100 years later, remaining hidden from the world until its rediscovery in 1911. Its remote location and the mystery surrounding its purpose have contributed to its enduring appeal.
The site is characterized by its impressive stone architecture, including temples, terraces, and plazas, all set against a backdrop of rugged mountain peaks and lush forests.
Visitors to Machu Picchu can explore the ruins on foot, taking in the incredible views and marveling at the engineering skill of the Incas. No list of the best places to visit in South America would be complete without it. The site is also a popular destination for hiking, with several trails leading through the surrounding mountains.
The site has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the new Seven Wonders of the World and the ultimate destination among the best places to visit in South America. Its significance to Peruvian history and culture has made it a symbol of national pride.
Reaching it is a question of route and budget rather than access: the Peru tours hub compares the itineraries that include Machu Picchu by length and price per person.
What are the best places to visit in South America for first-time travelers?
For first-time travelers, I always recommend starting with Machu Picchu in Peru, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, and the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. These three destinations give you a solid mix of history, culture, beaches, and wildlife — plus they have well-established tourism infrastructure that makes planning easier.
What is the best time of year to visit South America?
It depends on where you go. The dry season in most Andean countries (June to September) is ideal for Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Colca Canyon. For Patagonia and Torres del Paine, December to March gives you the warmest weather. The Galapagos is great year-round, but June to November offers cooler water and more wildlife activity.
How many days do you need to visit the best places in South America?
A solid South America trip covering 3 to 4 destinations takes around 2 to 3 weeks. If you want to hit Machu Picchu, the Galapagos, and Iguazu Falls in one trip, plan for at least 14 days. For a deeper experience at a single destination like Patagonia or the Amazon, 7 to 10 days is ideal.
Is South America safe for tourists?
Most of the best places to visit in South America are safe for tourists who take basic precautions. Stick to well-traveled areas, use registered tour operators, and keep valuables secure. Countries like Ecuador, Chile, and Peru have strong tourism industries with reliable infrastructure for visitors.
What is the cheapest country to visit in South America?
Bolivia and Ecuador are typically the most budget-friendly destinations. In Bolivia, you can visit the Salar de Uyuni for a fraction of what Patagonia costs. In Ecuador, budget travelers can explore Quito, the Andes, and even the Amazon for under $50 a day if you plan carefully.
Bolivia earned more room than one entry can give it: our full Bolivia travel guide covers Uyuni, La Paz, Titicaca and the routes that connect them.
Chile earned more room than a list entry can give it: our full Chile travel guide covers the Atacama, Patagonia, Easter Island and the routes that connect them.
Argentina earned more room than a list entry allows: our Argentina travel guide covers Iguazu, Patagonia, Buenos Aires and the coloured northwest.
Uruguay is the easy addition most itineraries skip: our things to do in Uruguay guide covers Colonia, Montevideo, Punta del Este and the wild Rocha coast.
Choosing which country to start with? Our South America travel guide routes the continent, with full libraries for Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Uruguay.
