Best Places to Visit in South America: A Complete List

Thinking about visiting South America and don’t know exactly where to go? This is our ultimate guide to the best places to visit in South America. Keep reading and plan your perfect trip.

South America is the continent of nature. From the highest mountains outside the Himalayas to the driest desert in the world, from the largest tropical rainforest to pristine Patagonian glaciers.

For the outdoor inclined the continent has it all. There are also beautiful beaches, cities full of culture and some of the best skiing in the southern hemisphere.

While still fairly unpopular compared to the likes of North America, Europe and Asia, South America has so many gems just waiting to be explored and discovered.

If you’re just starting to look into planning a trip to Latin America but it isn’t completely on your radar then here is our list of the best places to visit in South America that you simply cannot miss off any upcoming itinerary.

*This ‘best places to visit in south america’ guide contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

The Best Time to Visit South America

When to visit South America really does depend on which country or region you’re visiting. South America is a huge continent and climates vary dramatically.

You can pretty much draw an imaginary line horizontally at about Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Almost all places north of that line have a tropical climate characterised by dry and rainy seasons.

Any destinations south of that line, see all four seasons just like North America and Europe- just remember that seasons in the southern hemisphere are reversed. So, Chile and Argentina’s summer lands in December, January and February.

Generally speaking, if you are planning a huge bucket list trip across the continent the best time to visit is between November and March. Note that in a few areas, these months will coincide with the low season or wet season.

Best Places to Visit in South America

Machu Picchu, Peru

There are two World Wonders in South America and Machu Picchu is one of them. Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains.

Often shrouded in thick fog this city, often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas,” dates back to the 15th Century, which, only a century later became abandoned after the invasion of the Spanish in Peru.

Machu Picchu’s precise purpose remains a subject of scholarly debate, with theories ranging from a royal estate to a religious retreat or even an astronomical observatory.

The site is renowned for its stunning architectural precision, with precisely cut stones that fit together without the use of mortar, and its breathtaking natural setting, surrounded by lush green mountains and steep cliffs.

Today, the UNESCO World Heritage Site can be accessed by train or travellers can opt to do the multi-day Incan trail which takes you high into the Andes mountains to the citadel itself. It’s well worth every one of the fifty miles you’ll cross to get to the Incan site. 

After seeing the ancient ruins, which can all be done in one day, don’t miss 2 Days in Cusco, Peru to explore more Incan culture, beautiful colonial architecture and delicious food. 

Find out How To Get Tickets to Machu Picchu |The Ultimate Guide and How To Get To Machu Picchu + Secret Budget Option.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena, situated on the northern coast of Colombia along the Caribbean Sea, is a city steeped in history and charm.

Founded in 1533 by Spanish explorer Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena played a pivotal role in the Spanish colonial era as a major port for the shipment of gold, silver, and other valuable goods back to Europe.

Its well-preserved colonial architecture, fortified walls, and historic Old Town, known as the “walled city” or “Ciudad Amurallada,” are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer visitors a glimpse into its rich past.

Cartagena is renowned for its colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and elegant balconies adorned with vibrant bougainvillea.

The city’s cultural heritage is a fusion of indigenous, African, and European influences, which is evident in its music, dance, and cuisine.

Today, Cartagena is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and a thriving arts scene, making it a captivating blend of history and modernity in the heart of the Caribbean.

Read more: Unmissable Things To Do In Cartagena Colombia

Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island, known locally as Rapa Nui, is a remote and enigmatic island located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, belonging to Chile.

This isolated volcanic island is most famous for its iconic stone statues called moai, which were carved by the indigenous Rapa Nui people between the 13th and 16th centuries.

The purpose and methods behind the construction and transportation of these massive statues, some of which weigh up to 80 tons, remain subjects of scholarly intrigue.

Easter Island is also known for its unique and rich Polynesian culture, including its ancient petroglyphs, distinct language, and traditional music and dance.

Today, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts travelers from around the world who come to marvel at the moai, explore the island’s fascinating history, and soak in its natural beauty, including its stunning landscapes, volcanic craters, and pristine beaches.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The city of endless beaches, caipirinhas, samba, football and açai, Rio de Janeiro is one of South America’s most beautiful and fascinating cities.

With so many viewpoints in the city, one of the best things to do is get yourself up high to really realise the beauty of this coastline, pristine waters and golden beaches.

It’s also one of the only cities in the world with a national park inside the city itself, so why not walk up through it to the world-famous Christ the Redeemer?

During the day spend your time on the iconic Ipanema beach eating açai by the cup-full, exploring the historical centre, seeing landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain and Lage Park and by night dancing away to Brazilian samba while sipping on caipirinhas.

If you love to party then you might also want to visit in February as the city shuts down and takes to the streets for the largest multi-day street party in the world, carnival. 

Find out more: Must-Read Travel Guide to Rio de Janeiro and The Ultimate Rio de Janeiro Bucket List.

Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

If you love trekking and the outdoors then don’t miss the opportunity to visit Argentina’s answer to the Dolomites.

Los Glaciares National Park contains the Fitz Roy Range, one of the most famous and well-known places to trek in Argentine Patagonia and quite easily one of the best places to visit in South America.

Make the town of El Chalten your base and explore the area through a wide range of day treks or, if you have your own camping gear, organise a few multi-day treks through the valleys and up to the purest glacial lakes.

Trek to the base of ’the towers’ and through the untouched native forests in the area and prepare for the purest experience with nature possible. 

For those that love hiking, you can easily just base yourself here for a week and still not hike all the spectacular trails.

La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz, the capital city of Bolivia, is a fascinating and unique metropolis nestled dramatically in a high-altitude valley within the Andes Mountains.

Situated at an elevation ranging from 10,650 to 13,250 feet (3,250 to 4,100 meters), it holds the distinction of being the world’s highest capital city.

Founded in 1548 by Spanish conquistadors, La Paz has a rich colonial history that is evident in its well-preserved architecture and historic neighborhoods. The city is characterized by its striking geographical layout, with modern skyscrapers and bustling markets cascading down steep slopes, while the historic district of “El Alto” perches above, connected by a network of cable cars, known as “Mi Teleférico,” which offer both transportation and breathtaking views of the city.

La Paz is a cultural melting pot, with a vibrant indigenous presence, and it’s known for its lively street life, colorful markets, and a cuisine influenced by the diverse cultures of Bolivia. This bustling city serves as a gateway for exploring Bolivia’s natural wonders and cultural heritage, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Atacama Desert, Chile

Spanning much of northern Chile and some of Bolivia and Argentina, the Atacama Desert is a vast land of salt, rock and dirt.

It’s the driest desert in the world but it might not be as sandy as you think. There are so many things to see and do in the Atacama Desert including the famous ‘Hand of the Desert’ sculpture just south of Antofagasta, high-altitude Andean lakes, massive expanses of salt flats and indigenous villages.

Base yourself in San Pedro de Atacama, rent a car and explore this stunning landscape on your own terms. Don’t forget to check out The Ultimate Self-Driving Itinerary for Atacama Desert, Chile + Must-See Spots for the perfect Atacama itinerary which takes into account the high altitudes in the area.

Also, don’t miss Self-Drive Or Tours? | Which Is Better In The Atacama Desert? and A Short Guide to a Self-Drive Tour of Geyser Del Tatio, Chile

Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia

Just across the border from the Atacama Desert lie the Bolivian salt flats of Uyuni, one of the most unique places in the world. Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat which is reason for coming here alone.

Visit during the wet season and be taken aback by the large expanses of high altitude nothingness; only a reflective, salt-encrusted ground.

While there isn’t that much to do on the salt flats themselves apart from a jeep tour to visit various landscape features in the area, the surrounding towns and oases’ are definitely worth a look.

Rosario Islands, Colombia

The Rosario Islands are a small set of islands located in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia.

The largest island, Isla Grande is the perfect place to hang up a hammock for a few days and let life simply pass by.

There is nothing much to do on the islands apart from relaxing, swimming in the crystal Caribbean waters, eating delicious, fresh foods, snorkelling and kayaking through the mangroves.

The islands are so small they can be easily walked or kayaked around. It’s truly a place to really relax, meet people and forget about real life.

For more on Colombia’s beaches check out The Best Beaches in Colombia (on the Caribbean Coast) and The Essential Guide to Tayrona National Park, Colombia

Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil

Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses, located in northeastern Brazil, is a breathtaking natural wonder characterized by its vast, undulating sand dunes and crystal-clear freshwater lagoons.

Covering an area of over 600 square miles (1,550 square kilometers), this unique national park is a remarkable juxtaposition of desert-like landscapes and lush oasis-like lagoons, making it a true visual marvel.

During the rainy season, the dunes become dotted with countless temporary freshwater pools, creating a surreal and otherworldly scene- almost the perfect partnership between rainforest and desert.

Amazon Rainforest

The world’s largest rainforest, the Amazon encompasses 5.5 million square kilometres and while most of it lies in Brazil it can also be visited in Bolivia, Peru and Colombia.

A trip to the Amazon is a once in a lifetime experience, a chance to see nature at its very best and a chance to discover creatures, ingredients and ways of living you never thought still existed.

It’s a part of the world that still holds so many secrets; we really know so little about the people that live there, the properties of all the plants that grow there and the wildlife that roam deep inside the rainforests.

Some of the most unmissable things to do are to take a boat tour and spot the pink Amazon river dolphins, go on a walking tour through the jungle, visit a local village and spend a night under the stars (under a mosquito net of course).

The best places to head for your Amazon adventure are Iquitos in Peru, Leticia in Colombia and Manaus in Brazil.

Lake Titicaca, Peru/Bolivia

Lake Titicaca, situated high in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of over 12,000 feet (3,800 meters), is the largest lake in South America by volume and one of the highest navigable lakes in the world.

Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, it holds immense cultural and historical significance for the indigenous peoples of the region, particularly the Quechua and Aymara communities.

According to Inca mythology, Lake Titicaca is considered the birthplace of the Inca civilization, as it is believed that the first Inca king, Manco Cápac, emerged from its waters.

The lake is also dotted with several islands, including the famous floating Uros Islands, made entirely of totora reeds, and Taquile Island, known for its vibrant textile traditions and pre-Inca ruins. You can visit it on an overnight trip or day trip from Puno.

The pristine blue waters, picturesque landscapes, and the rich cultural heritage of the region make Lake Titicaca a captivating destination for travelers and a vital resource for the communities that have thrived along its shores for centuries.

Read more: The Best Things To Do in Lake Titicaca, Peru

Torres del Paine, Chile

The Torres del Paine National Park is one of Chile’s and Patagonia’s true gems. This wild, rugged national park is the perfect place for trekking and spending some much-needed time outdoors.

The three jagged granite peaks that tower over the skyline give the park its name and can be seen from most places in the park, thus making stunning photography opportunities pretty common.

Visitors can enjoy driving around and staying in some of the most luxurious hotels as well as doing boat and kayak tours on Grey Lake where you’ll be surrounded by icebergs all around you as they break off Grey Glacier.

For the more adventurous don’t miss the shorter ‘W’ or the longer ‘O’ trek which will take you past wind-battered native forest, pristine glacial lakes, monstrous glaciers and dramatic waterfalls.

Keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife too, you’ll be sure to encounter guanacos and possibly even condors and pumas.

Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina

Easily one of the best places to visit in South America, Iguazu Falls straddles Brazil and Argentina forming a natural border between the two giants.

Iguazu is the biggest waterfall in the world flowing at a rate of 300 cubic metres per second. The falls can be visited and enjoyed from either Argentina or Brazil, however if possible it’s best to see it from both- each country has a completely different view and perspective to offer.

There isn’t much to do in the area apart from staying, relaxing, dining and viewing the falls in the daytime so you can really use this time to relax and slow down.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Quite easily the best city in South America for many, Buenos Aires is a little slice of Europe in South America.

Home to many world-class museums, theatres and tango shows it’s a city that will keep you entertained for much longer than a weekend.

It has some of the best restaurants in South America, plenty of green space right in the city centre and both colonial and modern architecture that give character to the skyline.

Unique neighbourhoods to explore include Recoleta and its monumental cemetery, Palermo and Palermo Soho for their restaurant and cafe scene and boho San Telmo for its amazing Sunday kitsch market.

If you’re a football fan, make sure to also get tickets for a game- Argentinians take two things very seriously football and pizza.

Find out more: Top Things to Do in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay

While you’re in Buenos Aires, make sure to take the ferry across the Rio Plata to Uruguay and the beautiful little colonial town of Colonia del Sacramento. Often referred to simply as Colonia, it was founded in 1680 by the Portuguese.

Colonia has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its remarkable blend of Spanish and Portuguese influences, which can be seen in its churches, plazas, and forts.

The city’s iconic Barrio Histórico, or historic quarter, is a delight for visitors, with its quaint cafes, art galleries, and antique shops.

Make sure not to miss the picturesque waterfront too.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

For nature lovers the Galápagos Islands are heaven on earth- there is literally no place quite like it on earth.

It’s no surprise then that it was these small biodiverse islands that were the inspiration and evidence behind Darwin’s evolution theories.

There are many ways to see the islands and come into close contact with their resident wildlife. Opt for a sailboat tour that will whisk you away from one island to the next for 5 days or simply base yourself in Puerto Ayora and see some of the closer islands.

Either way, you’ll be able to catch glimpses of the islands’ most unusual species like the marine iguana, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies and flightless cormorants as well as turtles, swarms of species of fish and reef sharks.

You’ll be able to go kayaking, and snorkelling and visit the islands via a group tour. Need more convincing?

Check out 50 Photos To Inspire You To Visit the Galapagos Islands

Jose Ignacio, Uruguay

For those looking for a reason to visit Uruguay, this might it it. Jose Ignacio is Uruguary’s most chic beach town that comes alive during the summer months.

Located just 2.5 hours from Montevideo, Jose Ignacio is a small fishing village that’s now got the coolest hotel openings in Uruguay and some of the best restuarants. It’s also famous for it’s lighthouse.

There isn’t too much to do here but rest, relax, eat and go on leisurely beach strolls.

Jujuy Province, Argentina

Little known, Jujuy Province, situated in the far northwest of Argentina, is a land of striking contrasts and natural beauty.

Bordered by Bolivia to the north and Chile to the west, Jujuy is characterized by its diverse landscapes, ranging from the high-altitude Andean peaks to subtropical lowlands.

The province is known for its stunning geological formations, such as the multi-colored mountains of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, and the Salinas Grandes salt flats. J

ujuy is also rich in indigenous culture, with a significant population of Quechua and Aymara peoples who contribute to its vibrant traditions, music, and artisan crafts.

The city of San Salvador de Jujuy, the provincial capital, serves as a gateway to this remarkable region and is a blend of colonial heritage and modernity.

Jujuy is a fascinating place to visit so make sure not to leave it off your South America itinerary.

Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

One of the best places to visit in South America and Patagonia, the Perito Moreno Glacier symbolises the pure power of nature.

The only glacier in the world that’s actually advancing and not retreating, it’s the perfect place to learn more about the natural environment.

From the tourist hub of El Calafate, you can visit the glacier in a day and walk around the well-thought-out pathways that allow visitors to get as close as possible to this constantly advancing piece of ice.

If this doesn’t quite cut it for you make sure to book yourself on a glacier walking tour where you can actually put on some crampons and go for a walk on it.

Stick around at the glacier long enough and you’ll be able to see huge chunks of ice breaking off and crashing into the lake below; a rare sight that puts the icing on the cake to this incredible natural place.

Angel Falls, Venezuela

While it might not be the time to visit Venzuela right now, it wasn’t right to compile a list of the best places to visit in South America and not include this spectacular waterfall.

Angel Falls, located in Canaima National Park in Venezuela, is the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall, making it a natural wonder of exceptional grandeur.

Angel Falls is surrounded by lush rainforests and dense jungle, and reaching it often involves a journey through challenging terrain and a thrilling canoe ride along the rivers of Canaima National Park.

The falls have become a bucket-list destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, offering not only a remarkable natural spectacle but also the chance to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Venezuela’s remote and pristine wilderness.

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What are your best places to visit in South America? Let me know below!

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