best cities to visit in south america 2022

The 31 Best Places to Visit in South America

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 16th October 2023

Home to a spellbinding array of natural landscapes that shift between swathes of jungle, white sand beaches, volcanic craters, and glacier-speckled mountains, South America has a lot to offer, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts.

But, historic cities awash with striking colonial and pre-Columbian architecture, and a uniquely South American energy make this continent one for those seeking a city break or a more cultured vacation.

But how can you pin down exactly where to start when it comes to this incredible continent, made up of 13 extremely diverse countries? Luckily, after over eight years spent exploring the length and breadth of this continent for companies such as Moon , The Rough Guides , Lonely Planet and more, I’ve got a lot to say on the subject!

Whether you’re seeking the best vacation spots in South America or are planning a backpacking adventure through this mighty continent, we can guarantee that these 31 best places to visit in South America will have you booking yourself onto a flight, pronto .  

I’ve dug deep into my favorite destinations, including Patagonia , Chile , Argentina , Peru , Bolivia , Colombia , and Guyana , in my other detailed South America travel guides, but read on for inspiration for planning your next bucket list adventure to one of the globe’s most underrated destinations. 

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1. Experience city life in Buenos Aires

With magnificent neoclassical architecture, traditional porteño neighborhoods, world-beating steak houses, and milongas (tango halls), Buenos Aires is considered one of the most culturally vibrant cities in South America and is the perfect Argentina vacation spot.

It was a city that took me a little while to love, but once I did, I was hooked. To see the most of Buenos Aires, hop on the subway and explore the markets in the San Telmo neighborhood, catch the beautiful game at the Boca Juniors’ home stadium, La Bombonera, and dine like a king at a neighborhood steakhouse. Read more in our detailed Buenos Aires travel itineraries .

Pick from one of the tours operated by the local authority to learn even more about the city.

2. Visit Argentina’s most spectacular waterfall, Iguazu Falls

The magnificent Iguazu Falls aren’t just one incredible waterfall; no, it comprises 275 separate cascades, making Iguazu one of the globe’s greatest natural phenomena. A series of viewing platforms on the Argentinean side make you feel like you’re practically inside the water, as it thunders and crashes around you.

What’s more, the falls are set amongst lush, tropical forests frequented by indigenous birds and small mammals, making this a fascinating introduction to the Atlantic rainforest.

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The falls can be visited from either Argentina (Puerto Iguazú) or Brazil (Foz Do Iguaçu), making them ideal for a day trip. The Argentinian side boasts more walking trails and better up-close encounters with the falls. In contrast, the Brazilian side offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of the whole area.

I spent a couple of days in the area, which meant I could day-trip to both.

3. Embark on an epic South American road trip along Route 40

Argentina’s Route 40 is a journey for the intrepid at heart. A drive along this road that spans the entire country as it wiggles its way from north to south requires some planning – and a wild sense of adventure. 

Stretching over 3,100 miles (5,000 km), the trip can be done in various legs – depending on where you choose to start.

At the northern end, you’ll find the stark, high-altitude volcanic landscapes that border Bolivia ; at the south, you’ll encounter the glacier-strewn Andes mountains as they reach their conclusion at the tip of South America in Patagonia . 

Renting a car gives you the independence to explore the route at your pace, although you’ll find buying your own vehicle a much more economical choice.

4. Marvel at El Perito Moreno Glacier

Nothing prepares you for the epic scale of El Perito Moreno glacier . Towering over the grey-blue waters of Lago Argentino, it’s a truly vast slab of ice that’s constantly moving – albeit barely visibly.

That said, if you’re lucky, you’ll catch dense blue lumps of ice calving off and crashing into the lake below – a truly thrilling experience.

A series of boardwalks lead you around the glacier, offering a number of vantage points on this ice giant, while boat tours, kayaking, and even ice trekking offer more unusual means of exploring this relic of the last ice age.

5. Experience the laid-back atmosphere of Salta

For a glimpse of Andean culture in Argentina, head no further than the elegant and leafy city of Salta , which lies in the foothills of the Andes in the northwest of the country.

Neoclassical architecture gives a nod to the city’s colonial past, while its Andean roots continue to be celebrated, in everything from its food to its energetic peñas – venues that play traditional Andean music.  

Fill your time with museum visits and strolling around the city’s leafy streets. For a more adventurous experience, take a tour out to the region’s famed rock formations, the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Here, the mineral deposits in the earth have turned the mountainside into a staggeringly beautiful kaleidoscope of colors.

6. Tour the El Salar de Uyuni salt flats

The world’s most extensive salt flats and one of South America’s most breathtaking natural landmarks, El Salar de Uyuni is a surreal salt desert so vast that the blinding white plains seem to stretch to the horizon beyond.

During the rainy season – between December and March – the salt flats transform into the world’s largest mirror, making the spectacle even more dazzling and a great opportunity for taking beautiful watery photos. 

An unmissable place to visit in Bolivia, visiting these salt flats is easy via a tour from the nearby towns of Uyuni or Tupiza (the latter was my favorite way). Your trip will combine a visit to the salt flats with a tour of the volcano and lagoon-filled landscapes that surround the region. 

7. Venture to Lake Titicaca to see the birth of an ancient civilization

Standing on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the largest high-altitude body of water on the planet, it’s not hard to understand why Andean people believe this lake to be the birthplace of the sun. At 3,812 meters above sea level, it’s thought to be physically close to the Gods and its sapphire-blue waters and the surrounding ring of ice-speckled mountains give the area a truly mystical quality. 

While the lake lies across the border between Bolivia and Peru , visit from the latter country, where a boat trip from Puno will take you out to see the remarkable floating islands made from reeds that the indigenous Uros began constructing centuries ago.

Alternatively, take a tour and stop overnight on Isla Taquile and learn about the indigenous Aymara culture and their ancient tradition of weaving .

Brazil 

8. trek through the amazon jungle.

The vast ecosystem of the Amazon is home to over 40,000 tropical plant species and is one of the last refuges on the planet for a wide range of rare wildlife, including pink river dolphins and jaguars.

It’s easily one of the most exciting places to visit in South America and exploring by foot or boat is the best ways to get under the skin of this, the world’s largest rainforest. 

Popular entry points into the Amazon include Manaus (Brazil), Coca (Ecuador) Rurrenabaque (Bolivia), and Iquitos (Peru). I’ve visited from Colombia, Bolivia, Peru, and Guyana and found that, whichever corner you visit, your stay can involve sleeping in magical and remote jungle lodges tucked away in the depths of the rainforest.

The price of accommodation ranges from $35 – $110 USD per night – all depending on how luxurious you want your stay to be.

9. Discover the rhythms of Rio de Janeiro

Expect to be blown away by the sensational setting of Rio de Janeiro, a city famed for its gorgeous beaches, raucous Carnaval celebrations, and rambunctious nightlife. Few other South American cities can compete with Rio, which promises outstanding natural beauty and a damn good party. 

Venture to buzzing beaches where volleyball is the go-to sport, take the cog train up to the city’s emblematic statue , the Art Deco Christ the Redeemer, or get to grips with samba and learn how to party, Brazilian style, in one of the city’s live-music halls or at a street party. 

10. Get under the skin of rural life in Parque Nacional da Chapada Diamantina

Looking for an eco-adventure in Brazil? Look no further than Parque Nacional da Chapada Diamantina (Chapada Diamantina National Park). As one of the country’s – and the continent’s – most glorious national parks, expect to be blown away by the drama of the scenery here. 

Spend a few days here to discover Brazil’s highest waterfall and ancient table mountains where gaping canyons and jagged peaks draw together, as well as the welcoming hospitality of the local people.  

To see this region at its finest, take a multi-day trekking tour staying in local people’s homes, or take a hiking or caving day trip. 

11. Explore the beautifully preserved Cidades Históricas

Miners flocked to this part of Brazil in the 1600s to exploit the gold and diamonds buried in the earth. When they left, they abandoned a series of mining camps that, over the years, had been transformed into prosperous and charming cities. These days, they’re considered some of the most beautiful cities in South America. 

Ouro Preto is a pretty place of steep cobbled streets and beautifully well-preserved mansions, while remote Diamantina is surrounded by rugged landscape and home to colourful seventeenth-century houses and a glut of Baroque churches. 

Chile 

12. learn about the mysteries of rapa nui (easter island).

The enigmatic Rapa Nui (Easter Island), remote and volcanic, is home to the mysterious moai statues, which have been watching over the island for the last 800 years.

Carved by the islands’ artisans as a way to celebrate the lives of important community members and then installed on top of vast platforms on the islands’ shores, these monolithic figures are staggering in size and a remarkable slice of island history. 

Some travelers shy away from the island because they believe it’s too pricey, but it’s possible to visit Easter Island without breaking the bank . Affordable activities include horse riding and snorkeling, as well as cycling or hiking around the island; I’ve also got an excellent guide to where to stay on Easter Island , too, written after my research trip to the island for Moon Chile .

13. Take a road trip along the Carretera Austral

Few parts of South America lend themselves to an unforgettable road trip as much as the Carretera Austral . This serpentine road lined by the spellbinding scenery of some of the remotest parts of Patagonia is a truly intrepid place for an adventure and, despite its distance from civilization, a very safe part of Chile to explore. 

It’s also one of the places in South America that I absolutely adore. Trust me: you must visit.

Start in the north at Puerto Montt and head the full 1,240 kilometers south past some of the region’s most dazzling national parks, glaciers, and breathtaking lakes.

Spend the night wild camping beneath a canopy of stars or tucked up in cozy B&Bs or luxurious hotels. 

14. Trek the O Circuit around Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

With its glacier-stippled landscapes and dramatic montane scenery, there’s a reason Patagonia is best explored on foot.

Few trails in the region give you quite the same feeling of being miles from civilization quite like the O Circuit, in the world-famous Parque Nacional Torres del Paine (Torres del Paine National Park) .

This nine- to eleven-day trek introduces you to Patagonia at its most dazzling. From hanging glaciers perched vertiginously on mountains or attached to gleaming lagoons to groups of wild guanacos grazing on windswept plains, every step along this trail will leave an impression. 

It’s easily one of my favorite things to do on a trip to Chile .

15. Go wine tasting in the Colchagua Valley 

Argentina might be better known for its wines, but for the finest vintages head directly to the Colchagua Valley, a few hours’ drive south of capital city Santiago and an often overlooked Chilean tourist attraction. Here, the almost-lost French carménère grape has become the symbol of Chilean wine – and what a wine it is!

Tour the country’s most awarded wineries, including Casa Silva , Montes , and Viu Manent , stopping to dine on a feast of Chilean meats, cheeses, and fish at their fine-dining restaurants. I’d also highly recommend staying in a hotel surrounded by vineyards (you can find my favorites in this list of the best hotels in Chile ).

Once you’re done, head out on a horse and carriage tour or self-guided bike ride to explore through the vineyards themselves.

16. Learn about island life in Chiloé 

As the ferry journey from the mainland touches the shores of Chiloé, a vast archipelago of islands in the south of Chile, it’s hard not to sense its magic. Known as a place of myths, history, and a truly unique island identity, Chiloé feels a world away from the rest of South America. 

To get to grips with this corner of Chile, stay overnight in one of the colorful wooden fishermen’s dwellings known as palafitos that have been converted into luxury hotels , or head out at dawn to kayak along a hidden river searching for giant otters along the Chepu river valley. 

Colombia 

16. explore the historic city of cartagena.

Colombia is a backpackers’ favourite, but even those planning a shorter but still memorable South American vacation will find northern city Cartagena merits at least a few days of their trip. 

One of the most-visited tourist destinations in Colombia and easily the most beautiful city in the country, Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was built using the blood and sweat of the thousands of slaves who were brought through here in the 17th century. 

Exploring its cobblestone streets and vast churches in the Old City, and the grittier, art-daubed streets of nearby Getsemaní is a way of getting under Cartagena’s skin , while you can embark on a tour of the country’s food through the city’s wealth of restaurants specializing in local fish and Caribbean-inspired dishes. 

18. Step back in time at the Ciudad Perdida

There’s a reason that the Ciudad Perdida in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Marta range was dubbed the “Lost City”. Built by the Tairona people in 660 AD and abandoned when it was pillaged by the Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century, the city lay forgotten and buried by the encroaching jungle until the 1970s. 

Less dramatic in architecture than Machu Picchu , the Lost City does, however, present a far bigger challenge to reach. A five-day, 40-kilometer hike takes you through dense jungle, in sight of an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, and sticky humidity to reach these remote and barely-visited jungle ruins.

Wear mosquito pants and bring plenty of suncream – as I found out last year, this is one hot and bug-filled hike!

19. Hike and sunbathe on white sand beaches in Parque Nacional Tayrona

For some of Colombia’s finest white sand beaches and unspoiled rainforest, don’t miss Parque Nacional Tayrona (Tayrona National Park). Lying along the country’s dreamy Caribbean coast, it’s one of the continent’s finest places to sit back, relax and catch some rays. 

Once you’ve had your fill of sunbathing, spend a day or two wandering the hidden trails through the jungle or swinging in a hammock with a cold, crisp beer in hand. Paradise.  

20. Sip coffee on a coffee plantation

If there’s a drink that Colombians like even more than their aguardiente, it’s coffee. South of Medellin lies the Zona Cafetera, which is home to thousands of coffee fincas (farms) growing the world-class coffee that is sold around the planet.

Staying on a traditional coffee farm is the perfect way to learn more about the country’s favorite caffeinated drink and is a perfect stop on a Colombian travel itinerary .

With everything from basic to luxurious lodgings on the cards, a trip to a coffee finca can be combined with a series of activities including horseback riding, hiking or just relaxing in a hammock as you look out over the lush slopes of the region.

Ecuador 

21. explore the staggering diversity of the galapágos islands .

Wildlife documentaries are nothing when compared to seeing the Galapágos Islands in person. Where else in the world can wander freely among giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and sea lions, who are all but unconcerned by humans? 

Composed of 127 islets, rock formations, and large, volcanic islands, the Galapágos has a whole host of locations to explore, where you’ll encounter everything from frigate birds and blue-footed boobies to Galapágos penguins and green sea turtles. It should come as no surprise that this ranks as one of the must-see destinations in South America. 

Snorkel in the turquoise waters to catch a sight of the islands’ underwater residents, hike along the coast of Isla North Seymour for birdwatching opportunities, or visit the El Chato Tortoise Reserve to learn about the islands’ most famous residents. 

22. Trek the Quilotoa Loop

Get your hiking boots ready for a magnificent three- to five-day trail that’s considered one of Ecuador’s finest. Taking you past remote, Andean villages and through glorious, high-altitude scenery, this trail ends at the strikingly turquoise water of the volcanic crater lake, Laguna Quilotoa . 

A great off-the-beaten-path adventure , hiking the Quilotoa Loop doesn’t mean you have to lose any of your creature comforts, as cozy hostels dot the path for a comfortable sleep before your next day of hiking. All in all, it’s the perfect opportunity to go under the skin of rural Ecuador.

23. Marvel at the architecture in Quito’s Old Town 

Situated at a dizzying 2,850 metres above sea level, Ecuador’s capital city Quito is guaranteed to take your breath away. A major colonial city under the Spanish conquest, it lays claim to some of the continent’s best-preserved architecture. 

You can easily spend a few days wandering this UNESCO World Heritage city , taking in its glut of sixteenth-century squares and grand churches. Alternatively, spend a day heading out to the Mitad del Mundo , aka the Middle of the Earth, and the spot that marks the equator, or another of the different day trips from Quito . 

The Guianas

24. fly over the magnificent kaieteur falls, guyana .

If going beyond the beaten trail is your intention, make sure Guyana is on your list. Rarely visited by tourists, Guyana is home to a unique array of tourist attractions , including the spectacular Kaieteur Falls.

Spilling over into a seemingly bottomless gorge within the thick, humid jungle of the Kaieteur National Park, these falls are second to only Angel Falls in neighboring Venezuela in terms of scale and magnificence. 

Access them either on foot or via a more adventurous means: light aircraft. Flying from the capital of Guyana, Georgetown, you’ll swoop directly over these vertiginous falls, which stand 226 metres above the ground and plunge to the earth in a torrent of foam and spray.  

25. Boat along the Upper Suriname River, Suriname 

Covered in vast swathes of practically untouched jungle, former Dutch colony Suriname is the perfect place for an intrepid adventure in South America. With the local population speaking a mixture of Dutch and various indigenous tongues, it receives few English-speaking visitors – I was one of the only there when I visited. So, don’t miss out: the Upper Suriname River promises adventure for those who seek it. 

Travel by boat upriver to stay in the Dannpati Lodge , whose comfortable cabins situated on an island in the middle of the river feel tucked away in the jungle.

Spend your days splashing in the warm waters of the river, or learning about the local Maroon culture – the name for the enslaved people who escaped their captors and set up their own communities hidden away here in the jungle. 

26. Marvel at the ruins of Machu Picchu

Nestled in the Andes Mountains are the ruins of Machu Picchu . Built as a mountain getaway for the civilization’s rulers, this archaeological site gives visitors a glimpse into the Inca Empire, the largest of its kind in pre-Columbian America.

Part of the thrill of this site is how this once lavish mountainside citadel sits high up in the mountains and becomes absolutely enrapturing at dawn as the sun cascades over the stone buildings – an absolute must-see when you’re in Peru.  

You’ll encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna – including the site’s resident llama population, with the best way to get here is by hiking the Inca trail or one of the other paths that wind their way through the mountains to arrive – as the Inca themselves would have.

To enter Machu Picchu, you need to buy tickets in advance and you can do the visit without a guide you can read our article to find out the best time to visit Machu Picchu , too.

27. Fly over the Nazca Lines

If you’ve got a head for heights, you won’t want to miss South America’s most puzzling human landmark, the Nazca Lines. A collection of around 300 geoglyphs that have been etched into the desert sand with many spanning many kilometers, no one’s really sure why they were created . 

What is agreed on is that a flight above the geoglyphs is the only way to really appreciate their enormous size and remarkable designs.

Yes, it’s very short, and yes, you will feel a bit sick if there’s even slight turbulence. However, you can peer down on designs that look like everything from a hummingbird to a monkey and more abstract geometric shapes and stare out across the otherwise empty desert as you wonder exactly what caused them to be made. 

28. Explore the continent’s finest dining in Lima 

Home to some of the finest restaurants on the planet , there’s no arguing that Lima is a top South American destination for foodies. 

The city’s dining scene is quite something else: whether you want to sample an anticucho from a street food stand, dive into a delicate dish of traditional ceviche or go all out on a ten-course tasting menu showcasing the remarkable variety of Andean cuisine, there are options for all tastes and budgets. 

Every time I visit, I try and eat my body weight in ceviche. Trust me: you want this too.

29. Visit ancient cities and witches around Trujillo

In the dusty northwest of Peru lies the ruined city of Chan Chan , formerly the largest adobe brick complex in the world. Once paneled with gold and brightly painted with patterns reflecting the Chimú people’s relationship with the ocean, Chan Chan is a remarkable architectural site that dates back to around 850 AD. 

For another glimpse into the mysterious pre-Columbian civilizations that inhabited Peru, be sure to add the nearby huacas del Sol y de la Luna (Temples of the Sun and Moon) – a series of decorated pyramids rising high out of the otherwise flat desert landscape – and the Complejo Archeológico El Brujo (Archeological Complex of the Wizard).

The latter plays host to a remarkable museum containing gold ornaments, as well as the body of a female mummified shamanic leader, whose well-preserved arms are daubed in tattoos. No one really goes here and I’m baffled as to why.

30. Seek giants and jaguars in the Pantanal 

Few tourists venture to the sweltering territory of Paraguay, but those who do are rewarded in spades. To see this country at its best, make a beeline for the Pantanal , the remarkably biodiverse stretch of soupy rivers and wetlands that boasts the highest concentration of wildlife in South America.

Remote and challenging to reach, it’s the perfect place to spot jaguars, giant anteaters, giant armadillos, and giant otters, as well as a wealth of other wild creatures. 

Arrive by boat from Concepción further south or take a small plane from the capital, Asunción; basic accommodation and the feeling of being alone in one of the remotest parts of the country awaits you. 

31. Fall in love with Montevideo’s historic Ciudad Vieja

Montevideo, the Uruguayan capital, is one of the lesser-known cities in South America, and often finds itself in the shadow of its neighbor, Buenos Aires. But, as the locals know, this is the true home of tango, and history lovers will fall in love with this city, thanks to its magnificent Ciudad Vieja (Old Town), which is packed with quirky museums, famed theatres, and historic plazas.

 Visiting Montevideo is an unmissable thing to do in South America. Between history trips, soak up the sun at one of the beaches found on the town’s outskirts, or head east for a day trip to the country’s more glamorous beach resort, Punta del Este. 

Venezuela 

32. visit the magical angel falls.

Buried deep in the Venezuelan jungle lies one of South America’s most dramatic natural landmarks. Thundering down from a tabletop mountain from a height of 980 meters, Angel Falls is sixteen times the height of Niagara Falls, making it the world’s tallest waterfall, and easily one of South America’s most spectacular sights. 

But it’s not just the falls themselves that make this part of Venezuela so beguiling. Surrounded by lush rainforest within Parque Nacional Canaima (Canaima National Park) , these falls are challenging to reach, requiring a boat journey followed by a hike to stand at their feet.

But, with this degree of magic awaiting, it’s a more than worthwhile adventure. 

Ready for your thrilling adventure around South America?

Whether you’re seeking beauty, ancient human civilization, or the buzz of a modern city, South America has a diverse range of destinations to choose from. From spectacular nature to vibrant city life, it has the potential to steal a piece of any traveler’s heart. 

Whether yours is a short vacation or a more lengthy backpacking adventure or road trip, exploring South America is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Before you go, find out which season and months are best for visiting South America , what you should pack for a trip to South America , and which counties are best in South America for everything from archeological sites to fine dining with our expert-written guides.

Thursday 14th of April 2022

Hello, Thank you for your itinerary. I am Mildred. I book my cruise to Antarctica on November 23- Dec. 2. Starting in Ushuaia, Argentina. I want to make an itinerary. I will fly to Lima, Peru to adventure the place. Then bus to Bolivia, Chile to Ushuaia for my cruise to Antarctica. I also want to visit Brazil. I am having a hard time of making my itinerary if which is next to each other before I book my ticket. Any idea of how to plan my itinerary will help me a lot. I can come early to do my adventure to these places before my cruise to Antarctica nor I can do my adventure to these places after my cruise to Antarctica. Please and thank you for your help.

Steph Dyson

Friday 22nd of April 2022

Hi Mildred, I offer travel planning services just for this! Check them out here and drop me an email! Steph

30 Best Places to Visit in South America 2024

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Filled with otherworldly landscapes, incredible weather and, bustling cultures, the colourful continent of South America has brought me back time and time again.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration on where to go in South America or are already planning a trip, make sure you don’t miss out on this categorised list of the best places to visit in South America !

This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to yourself. This helps towards the upkeep of this website for which I am grateful.

Best Cities to Visit in South America

The South American continent is filled with diverse cities, most are bustling and filled with colourful colonial architecture, making them a must see vacation spot in South America.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The lively city of Rio de Janeiro is a must see in South America. 

With epic views from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Christ the Redeemer statue, Rio de Janeiro is like no other city.

However if you want a unique birds eye view, make sure you try hand gliding over Rio !

Other than the views, the city is home to a number of South American tourist attractions such as Ipanema and Copacabana beach as well as the mosaic covered steps of Selarón in Lapa and the Rio Carnival in February.

Salvador de Bahia, Brazil

The coastal city of Salvador , is the capital of Brazil’s northeastern state of Bahia.

It is known for its Portuguese colonial architecture, Afro-Brazilian culture and a tropical coastline.

The Pelourinho neighbourhood is its historic heart, with cobblestone alleys opening onto large squares, colourful buildings and baroque churches such as São Francisco, featuring gilt woodwork.

This city is a must if you are wondering where to visit in South America!

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena de Indias is one of the best cities to visit in South America, with its Caribbean climate, colourful walled city and nearby white sand beaches, it’s no wonder so many tourists flock to the ‘Jewel of the Indies’.

My favourite neighbourhood is Getsemani, an edgy quarter filled with street art, that wonderfully contrasts the old city.

There are plenty of things to do in Cartagena including trying their famous from food stalls, fresh juices and fresh seafood.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

The combination of South American flair and European elegance make Buenos Aires , a one of a kind destination in South America.

Famous things to do in the instagrammable city of Buenos Aires , include visiting the iconic presidential palace, Casa Rosada , and the grand opera house, Teatro Colón , as well as the colourful area of La Boca .

No trip to Buenos Aires would be complete without trying their tasty empanadas , and some Dulce de Leche ice cream .

La Paz, Bolivia

The highest capital city in the world, La Paz rests on the Andes’ Altiplano plateau at more than 3600m above sea level.

The best places to visit in La Paz are Valle de la Luna, Death road , the Witches market and the lofty viewpoints of La Paz.

Bolivia’s capital is also connected to the rest of the country, so it’s easy to get a bus to Salar de Uyuni , Lake Titicaca or to the Bolivian Amazon jungle .

Medellin, Colombia

The ‘City of Eternal Spring’, Medellin was once one of the most dangerous cities in the world, but is now a haven for tourists and digital nomads.

Known for its nightlife, Medellin is a great place to spend a few days exploring and understanding quickly why it was named the most Innovative City in the World back in 2013.

The modern buildings of Medellin are surrounded by the green hills, which are perfect for paragliding off.

This was one of my favourite activities in South America, and a tandem paraglide in Medellin is a fraction of the cost anywhere else in the world.

Valparaiso, Chile

The colourful and bohemian UNESCO World Heritage town of Valparaiso , is only an hour and a half from Santiago in Chile , making it perfect for a weekend break or even a day trip if you are short on time.

Valparaiso is full of unique buildings, endless staircases, narrow streets and funicular elevators.

I highly recommend searching out some of the lofty lookout points to get a panoramic view of Valparaiso, and it’s rainbow coloured buildings.

Best Places to Visit in South America on a Budget

As a whole the continent of South America is budget friendly however the Galapagos Islands, Easter Island and the countries of Chile and Argentina (especially Patagonia) are a lot more expensive.

The coolest places to visit in South America on a budget, include some of my favourites spots on the continent, including Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, Quito in Ecuador and Lake Titicaca on the border of Peru and Bolivia.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Sixteen thousand years ago, this area in the south of Bolivia was a high altitude salt lake.

The water has since evaporated, leaving a unique and unforgettable landscape of flat white salt as far as the eye can see.

Dotted somewhere in the middle of the twelve thousand square metres of salt, lies Incahuasi – a rock island covered in hundreds of flowering cacti, an unmissable spot on a trip to Bolivia.

Strangely unique, there’s not many places I could visit over and over again (the world is far too big for that!) but I’d happily return to Salar de Uyuni during the rainy season to capture the mirror image reflections on these salt flats.

Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat and best visited on the popular three day tour from Uyuni or San Pedro de Atacama .

During the multi day trip you will visit several lakes including one of the best places to visit in Latin America, Laguna Colorada .

Quito, Ecuador

The capital city of Quito (a UNESCO World Heritage site), is the gateway to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands , Pacific coast, Andes and the Amazon rainforest.

Quito has everything from bustling cafes to volcano peaks, and there are plenty of things to do in Quito to keep you busy for at least three days.

The must visit places in Quito and the old town are La Ronda – the cities cultural hub, and La Mitad del Mundo – the Equator line.

Lake Titicaca, Bolivia

Lake Titicaca is a stunning and inspiring place to relax for a night or two on the border between Peru and Bolivia.

Serene, sacred and steeped in rich cultures past and present, the beautiful Lake Titicaca is easily one of South America’s most alluring destinations.

Over forty islands are sprinkled throughout, the largest of which is Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun), which has over 180 ancient Incan ruins.

Spend a day hiking across the island and spend the evening relax in a hot tub at this amazing hotel .

Iguazu falls, Argentina and Brazil

Iguazú Falls are one of the best places to travel in South America, due to the sheer size of the waterfalls.

Located on the border between Brazil and Argentina in a large expanse of national park, the falls are surrounded by unique flora and fauna.

Visiting on the Argentinean side is recommended as you can hike along the waterfalls, but remember to bring a waterproof jacket as you will get wet!

Best Places to go Hiking in South America

If you are wondering where to travel in South America to go hiking, look no further.

Here are a collection of a few of best hikes in South America ranging from one day to multi day hikes in some of the best South American countries to visit.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu has been voted one of the new seven Wonders of the World and is a must visit for all travellers in South America.

These majestic ruins were built by the Inca Empire and are located in the scenic Andes mountain range, surrounded by beautiful cloud forests and mountain scenery.

Machu Picchu is only accessible from the city of Cusco, which you can reach by bus or air travel.

It’s worth staying a few days to enjoy all the things to do in Cusco before heading off to Machu Picchu.

Whilst the ruins are impressive, I actually enjoyed the four day Inca Trail hike more than the final destination, due to the beautiful scenery and sereneness of the Inca trail .

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia

Ancient forests, towering granite peaks, glaciers, lakes, rivers, and pampas, Torres del Paine National Park is the gem of Patagonia. 

Named after the three iconic granite spires that rise out of the heart of the Paine Massif, Torres del Paine is located in the Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica region of southern Chile.

The hiking trails in Torres del Paine, like the  W Trek  draw in more than 250,000 visitors a year from Chile and abroad.

The park was founded in 1959 and became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1978 to protect the fragile landscapes, plants, and wildlife that call this place home.  

Torres del Paine National Park is popular for its hiking trails , but there are plenty of other activities to be enjoyed like wildlife viewing, kayaking, boating, and cycling, making it one of the best places to visit South America.

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Active geysers, coloured lagoons and breathtaking salt flats make up the landscape surrounding San Pedro de Atacama .

It is one of the best adventure travel destinations in South America, especially if you enjoy mountain biking or sand boarding down the dunes.

You can also relax in one of the natural hot springs and visit the Atacama desert at night to experience the endless stargazing in the driest desert in the world.

Easter Island, Chile

As one of the world’s most remote islands, Easter Island is on many people’s bucket lists.

This island has 887 mythic moai stone statues, strewn across the 63 square-mile land constructed around 1200 to 1600 A.D.

However the island is also full of volcanic craters, preserved stone villages, beaches, fantastic seafood and world-class diving.

Rapa Nui , the native name of the Easter Island is a Chile-governed territory, but is 2,200 miles away from South America’s mainland.

El Calafate, Patagonia

El Calafate is just a short bus ride away from one of the continent’s last advancing glaciers, Perito Moreno Glacier .

It is best to view the glacier from the walkways, and via boat before heading onto the ice for a memorable trekking adventure .

I highly recommend doing the Big Ice experience, which involves walking through ice caves, and seeing the striking blue colour of the lagoons up close.

Colca Canyon, Peru

Peru has plenty of places to visit other than Machu Picchu , such as Colca Canyon.

Located four hours from the city of Arequipa, it is the second deepest canyon in the world and one of the best places to visit in South America to see the Andean Condor.

With a weight up to 12 kg and a wingspan of over three metres, they are an impressive bird to see up close.

Colca Canyon is also one of the most popular destinations for trekking in South America .

I did the overnight hike into the canyon, and spent the night in one of the villages at the base before hiking 1100 metres up to the ridge.

It is a tough hike so for those looking to relax a bit more and take it slower you can do the three day version instead of the two day trip .

Either way it’s easy to see why Colca Canyon is in the top South America places to visit.

Rainbow Mountain, Peru

A day trip from Cusco, the Rainbow Mountain takes only a few hours to climb.

This site – which is also known as Vinicunca, Winikunka, Montaña de Siete Colores, and Montaña de Colores – was covered in thick snow and ice until the end of 2015, when the striped colours have now become visible.

The summit is at 5200m so make sure you are acclimated to the altitude in Cusco before setting off on this trek.

Best Places to Visit in South America for Wildlife

South America is filled with diverse wildlife from penguins and crocodiles to whales and flamingos, making it a great hotspot for nature lovers.

Before embarking on your trip make sure you research wildlife photography tips so you can make the most of it.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

One of the most spectacular places to visit in South America has to be the Galapagos Islands .

Although the islands aren’t the cheapest or the most accessible place in the world to visit, they still attract an extraordinary number of visitors.

This number is however restricted, so a trip to these famed islands needs to be planned well in advance.

Don’t let this put you off visiting one of the most diverse and unique places on the planet, as a visit to the Galapagos Islands are a chance to experience pristine beaches, incomparable wildlife, and volcanic landscapes like no other.

Laguna Colorada, Bolivia

Bolivia is home to one of the most surreal landscapes in South America.

Located 4300m above sea level lies a distinct lake covered in a sheet of pink algae and white borax islands.

Laguna Colorada is home to hundreds of rare flamingos that flock there to feed on the algae, which in turn helps the flamingos earn their unmistakable colour.

As the wind blows, the algae is affected and the lake seems to change colour in front of your eyes from pink to red to a deep orange.

A unique place to add to your South America bucket list.

Magdalena Island, Chile

Thousands of playful penguins can be found in their natural habitat on a tour of Magdalena Island from Punta Arenas.

Cruise past stunning seaside scenery as you venture to a picturesque and protected nature reserve to observe the incredible creatures.

Gain insight into the penguins physiology and behaviour with a knowledgeable guide and embark on a hike to a legendary lighthouse.

Weather permitting, you can also sail to the shores of Isla Marta to witness sea lions and elephant seals splashing in the sea.

It’s easy to see why Magdalena Island is one of the best vacation spots in South America.

Pantanal, Brazil

Brazil’s best kept secret is the Pantanal . Located in the heart of South America and as the world’s largest tropical wetland area, it should be on everyone’s bucket list.

The Pantanal stretches across the Brazilian states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul and also spills into  Bolivia  and Paraguay.

While the Amazon gets more credit, the best opportunities for wildlife spotting are in the Pantanal so be sure to carve out a few days to visit.

If you want to do some jaguar spotting, visit the Mato Grosso along the Cuiabá River from July to September.

Ballestas Islands, Peru

The Ballestas Islands are a group of rocky islands located off the Pacific coast of Peru near the town of Paracas, three hours south of Lima.

Nicknamed “The Poor Man’s Galapagos”, the islands are a must see for all wildlife lovers as they are home to thousands of birds and mammals including penguins, sea lions, pelicans and dolphins.

The islands, locally known as Las Islas Ballestas, are protected, meaning you cannot swim with the animals or walk on the islands themselves, but you can get very close to them on a boat tour .

Underrated Places to Visit in South America

Here are a list of the best hidden gems in South America, from jungles and deserts to mountains and beaches, as well as the most underrated city in South America!

Ciudad Perdida, Colombia

Located deep in the Colombian jungle lies Ciudad Perdida or “The Lost City”, it is one of the most underrated places to visit in South America.

An archaeological site that was undiscovered for centuries until 1972.

Ciudad Perdida is around 650 years older than Machu Picchu, however only around 10% of the site has been uncovered.

Despite being accessible to tourists for the past 10+ years, the ruins are still surprisingly quiet, but well worth visiting for an authentic experience.

The ruins can be reached by hiking 4 – 6 days (46 km round trip)  through the lush green humid jungles of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

River crossings, steep hills, and tropical heat make this trek a gruelling one.

Compared to the infamous Inca trail, this adventurous trek involves sleeping in hammocks, swimming in crystal clear pools, visiting local indigenous communities and if you’re lucky, spotting a rare toucan. 

Visiting this part of Colombia, during dry season is advised (December to March) when the river crossings are knee height as opposed to chest height during wet season!

Huacachina, Peru

Located four hours south of Lima, close to the city of Ica. Huacachina is South America’s ONLY natural desert oasis and is home to the largest sand dunes in the continent.

Huacachina is perfect for a two night stay, and a visit has to include exploring the sand dunes on foot at sunset or sunrise.

Another great way to experience the desert is by joining a dune buggy tour and trying your hand at sand boarding .

Mount Roraima, Venezuela

Straddling on the border of Venezuela , Guyana and Brazil , the table top mountain of Mount Roraima is located 2810 meters above sea level.

Mount Roraima is the highest of the Pakaraima chain of tepui plateaus in South America.

Few places on earth conjure up the feeling of a truly alien landscape, but Mount Roraima, with its lakes, strange shaped rocks and extraordinary panoramic views, perfectly encapsulates the “Lost World” of Victorian literature.

The summit can be reached via a six day trek from Santa Elena , and the best time to visit Mount Roraima is between December and April when the weather is drier.

The views from the top are why it’s one of the best South American destinations.

Tatacoa Desert, Colombia

The second largest arid zone, the Tatacoa Desert, in Colombia occupies more than 330 square kilometers.

The landscape is covered in rocky canyons rather than sand.

As the desert is located close to the Equator its possible to view both the Northern and Southern skies, coupled with no light population, this makes Tatacoa Desert one of the best places to stargaze in the world.

Though small, there is an observatory with a team of knowledgeable astronomers who open the observatory doors each night to teach visitors, about constellations and use the telescopes to get a closer look.

The easiest way to reach Tatacoa Desert is by getting a bus from the closest town Neiva to Villavieja .

Ilha Grande, Brazil

Ilha Grande, remains one of my all time favourite beach destinations in South America.

Set in a National Park, Ilha Grande has gotten more popular over the years due to its proximity to Rio de Janeiro , but if you want to get away from the crowds make sure you visit the hidden gem of Lopes Mendes.

This beach is as secluded as it gets, there are no toilets, no restaurants, and likely no other tourists, as it takes two hours to hike to the beach, but I’m sure you’ll agree it’s worth it.

Guatape, Colombia

The best day trip from Medellin, is the full day tour to Guatape .

The trip includes walking 740 steps to the top of El Peñol for the panoramic views of the surrounding islands, (this sounds like a lot but it actually only takes about ten minutes at a medium pace).

After the climb you should visit the colourful facades of Pueblo de Zócalos and see El Peñol from afar.

Guatape is around two hours away from Medellin and the day tours include a boat ride through the emerald green waterways and past the home of Pablo Escobar, making it one of the great South America vacation spots.

Montevideo, Uruguay

A hidden gem and one of the most beautiful places to visit in South America is the laidback capital of Uruguay.

Considered one of the safest cities on the continent, Montevideo is great for culture vultures.

The pedestrian-only walkways of Ciudad Vieja are filled with colourful boutiques, cafes and markets, and the beaches of Montevideo are great for kite surfers.

If you want to learn to dance the tango, the city is a great place to take lessons, and if you want to relax with a good glass of wine, make sure you don’t miss out on a tour to one of the cities wineries .

Has this list of the best tourist destinations in South America by category inspired you to visit the continent? Let me know in the comments and if you love hiking, check out the 15 best hikes in South America .

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19+ Best Cities in South America to Visit [2024]

From sprawling capitals to tiny towns untouched by time, South America boasts the ultimate array of travel destinations. Bucket list destinations like Machu Picchu sit side by side with some of the world’s most historic city centers, while remote towns nestled along unmatched natural wonders allow for unrivaled access to some of the world’s most beautiful gems.

After living for years in a number of countries across Latin America, we’ve visited nearly all of the major cities in South America and some of the most charming towns and villages the region has to offer. These are the best cities in South America to add to your itinerary.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Best Cities in South America

1. la paz, bolivia.

If you haven’t heard much about Bolivia travel or about La Paz in general, you’re not alone. La Paz, Bolivia, is still a mostly off-the-beaten-path travel destination, but not for lack of things to do, incredible landscapes, and super cheap travel.

Highlights of La Paz include the fascinating Witches Market, where you’ll learn so much about indigenous traditions and culture, cable cars that stretch across the city for incredible views, and a historic center with beautiful architecture. Day trip options are endless, too, and include canyons, snow-capped mountains, and much more.

La Paz is also a great jumping-off point for further exploring Bolivia, including the otherworldly Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats , Lake Titicaca , and the stunning Madidi National Park on the edge of the Amazon Rainforest. Don’t wait until Bolivia gets popular to plan your trip – it’s well worth exploring now!

Plan a Trip to Bolivia

• 24+ Best Things To Do in La Paz, Bolivia
• How to Tour the Bolivia Salt Flats
• Ultimate Travel Guide to Laguna Colorada, Bolivia

2. Baños, Ecuador

If the sprawling metropolis of La Paz isn’t the travel experience you’re looking for, one of the nicest small cities in South America is Baños, Ecuador . This small town wedged between the Andes Mountain and the Amazon Rainforest in the center of Ecuador is the country’s adventure sports capital. However, it has plenty to do if you’re looking for rest and relaxation.

Baños is a fantastic adventure travel destination and the best place for bungee jumping, paragliding, and even canyoning, an exhilarating adventure sport that involves repelling down a series of waterfalls. It also has countless waterfalls nearby, and the “Ruta de las Cascadas” is an excellent bike route that takes you past several of them!

Baños is also home to countless hostels, small hotels, and eco-lodges, plus some excellent cafes, bars, and restaurants to keep you busy. Enjoy some relaxation by visiting the natural thermal baths heated by volcanic activity from Volcán Tungurahua, or visiting the Instagram-famous swing over the edge of the world for a beautiful view over the city.

Read More: Ultimate Travel Guide to Baños, Ecuador

3. Medellin, Colombia

World, take note: Medellin’s transformation from a dangerous metropolis to a thriving, bustling city, digital nomad destination, and South American travel hub is complete. The change you’ll see in Medellin is remarkable, and this favorite Colombian city is well worth a visit.

Don’t get sucked into the tourist trap-style things to do in Medellin that only highlight the city’s dark past (ahem, Pablo Escobar tours). Visit the parks, explore local markets like the Placita de Flores, cheer at a crazy fútbol (soccer) game, and take in the views by riding the cable cars and ending the day with a sunset drink at a rooftop bar.

While you could easily stay put in Medellin for weeks or months without getting bored, there’s plenty to do outside the city as well. Here you’re at the heart of coffee country – some of the world’s best! – so take advantage by visiting a coffee farm.

You’ll also love Guatapé – this colorful small town and the massive Peñón de Guatapé are together one of the most famous landmarks in South America .

Plan a Trip to Medellin

• Is Medellin Safe?
• Where to Stay in Medellin + Best Medellin Neighborhoods
• 28 Best Things To Do in Medellin

4. Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay

With just around 26,000 inhabitants, the tiny city of Colonia del Sacramento is a far cry from some of the massive and sprawling cities in South America you’ll find on the rest of this list. However, this charming city on the Rio de la Plata is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a colonial gem, making it a highlight of a trip to Uruguay.

Just wandering the historic center is more than enough to keep you busy on a day trip: with its quaint cobblestone streets, historic lighthouse, museums, and old city walls, there are plenty of areas to explore. Colonia is also close to several beaches, but they won’t be as pristine as those closer to the posh resort town of Punta del Este.

Colonia del Sacramento is an easy one-hour ferry ride from Buenos Aires on the Buquebus, which connects the Argentine capital with both Colonia and Montevideo and offers several daily ferries. It’s a favorite day trip from Buenos Aires, though an overnight will allow you more time to explore the city with fewer tourists.

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is unlike any other of the countless capital cities in South America. A unique mix of European architecture and culture with New York City hustle and bustle, Buenos Aires has a fascinating mix of influences that you won’t find anywhere else in Latin America.

There are so many things to do in Buenos Aires that you’ll never get bored: from free tango lessons at La Catedral to bike rides through the Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve and tours of the historic (and haunted?) Recoleta cemetery , you’ll find something to do no matter your interest.

Plus, Buenos Aires has excellent food: the world’s greatest steaks and Malbec wine, choripan (sausage sandwiches with chimichurri), fugazetta pizza, and spectacular medialunas (croissants) and other facturas (pastries), heavily featuring dulce de leche.

Buenos Aires is also an extremely affordable destination for travelers, and you’ll be surprised to see how far your travel dollars take you, even in some of the best Buenos Aires neighborhoods like Palermo and Recoleta .

Plan a Trip to Buenos Aires

• 32 Best Things To Do in Buenos Aires
• Where to Stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina
• 2 Day Buenos Aires Itinerary

6. Quito, Ecuador

After traveling all around South America, I’ve come to the conclusion that Quito, Ecuador is one of the very BEST cities in South America to visit. I might be biased – I did spend two years living here, after all – but this stunning city in Ecuador has so much to offer travelers, whether you’re planning on spending just a few hours or a few weeks here.

One of the highlights of Quito is the gorgeous Old Town Quito , considered one of the most extensive and well-preserved colonial centers in Latin America. Spend a few hours touring this easily walkable neighborhood, and climb the bell towers and spire of the Basilica del Voto Nacional for a stunning view.

Beyond just the historic city, the layout of this metropolis in the Andes is gorgeous, with mountains and volcanoes surrounding all of Quito. You’ll get a stunning 360-degree view from the top of the TelefériQo cable car, which heads halfway up the side of the Pichincha Volcano, one of the most impressive volcanoes in Ecuador .

Quito is also a perfect spot to base yourself for a short trip to Ecuador, as there are countless excellent day trips from Quito and overnights that will bring you to some of the most beautiful spots in Ecuador – with any itinerary less than ten days in Ecuador , I recommend basing yourself in Quito.

Plan a Trip to Ecuador

• 37 Best Things To Do in Quito
• Ultimate Ecuador Travel Guide
• Otavalo Market: How to Visit Ecuador’s Best Market

7. Cusco, Peru

At the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley , Cusco is one of South America’s most enchanting and beloved cities . With its fascinating mix of Incan and colonial historic architecture, easy access to nearby Incan ruins and natural wonders, and proximity to Machu Picchu , this city has plenty to offer.

The historic center of Cusco is a gem, filled with historic churches, plazas, and remnants of Incan walls across unique neighborhoods like San Blas and San Cristobal, known for their lookout points that give gorgeous views over the city. There are countless things to do in Cusco , though wandering and exploring is an easy favorite.

Get out of central Cusco for a day by taking one of the countless Cusco day trips to stunning spots like Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, or towns famous for their Incan ruins like Pisac and Ollantaytambo .

Don’t make the same mistake that many travelers make, and breeze through Cusco on your way to Machu Picchu! This complex and beautiful city has so much to offer that just a day spent acclimatizing before moving on won’t do it justice.

Plan a Trip to Peru

• Where to Stay in Cusco, Peru
• Ultimate Travel Guide to Ollantaytambo, Peru
• Best Machu Picchu Tours (For Every Budget)

8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro has everything you might want from a city in South America. With a variety of spectacular beaches, incredible coastal and mountain views, plenty of cultural events and activities , and cool day trips from Rio de Janeiro , you’ll have a hard time narrowing down your itinerary in Rio de Janeiro.

Of course, a must-visit destination in Rio de Janeiro is the Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the most famous landmarks in South America . Purchase a skip-the-line ticket online to save time when visiting this iconic monument on Corcovado, then head to Sugarloaf Mountain for another one of Rio’s iconic views, which you’ll access by cable car.

Spend the rest of your time in Rio enjoying great food, lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and unique cultural experiences. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime to one of the greatest cities in South America.

9. Cartagena, Colombia

Located on Colombia’s dreamy Caribbean coast, Cartagena is one of the most popular cities to visit in Colombia, and it’s easy to see why. With a perfect combination of old architecture with a fascinating history (and UNESCO World Heritage status !) and modern luxury, there is something for every kind of traveler in Cartagena.

There are plenty of things to do in Cartagena . You’ll enjoy exploring the historic streets with museums, ornate churches, beautiful shops, and hip restaurants within the old Walled City, then retreating to modern Bocagrande with its glimmering skyscrapers that sit oceanfront just a few minutes away.

Cartagena is also an excellent choice for an affordable Caribbean vacation, especially if you head to nearby Isla Barú with its famous white-sand beach, Playa Blanca, or to the nearby Rosario Islands .

While visiting Cartagena can get expensive, especially compared to other cities in Colombia, it’s a must on every Colombian coastal backpacking route .

Plan a Trip to Cartagena

• Is Cartagena Safe?
• Cartagena’s Rosario Islands: Ultimate Travel Guide
• Where to Stay in Cartagena + Best Cartagena Neighborhoods

10. Valparaiso, Chile

Get your hiking shoes on because the hilly coastal city of Valparaiso, Chile will have you climbing some huge hills to explore the town. Don’t let this deter you – it also means you’re in for some killer views of the ocean and the colorful, historic houses that cling perilously to the hillsides.

This unique, quirky city is a joy to experience and a must for any traveler visiting Chile. To avoid walking the hills, take the funiculars – called ascensores – from the port up the hillside for a stunning view. From there, you can explore the hilly neighborhoods, which are filled with beautiful murals , lookouts with stunning views, and historic architecture.

Valparaiso is located within minutes of Viña del Mar, with its lovely beaches and upscale shopping and dining , and is an easy, affordable bus ride of under two hours to Santiago. It’s a great, small, bohemian city you’ll wish you had more time to enjoy.

11. Bogotá, Colombia

Colombia’s capital city of Bogotá is lofted high in the Andes Mountains, and it is one of the biggest capital cities in South America. Don’t let the hustle and bustle of the city dissuade you from a visit: a beautiful historic center, incredible mountain and city views, and enough cultural events and activities to make your head spin means you’d be hard-pressed not to fall in love with Bogotá.

If you’re looking for this big city’s charm, head straight to La Candelaria, the city’s beautiful, walkable historic center complete with lovely street art, nice cafes and restaurants, and plenty of hostels and boutique hotels. Another highlight of any trip to Bogotá is a visit to Montserrate, a mountain rising high over downtown Bogotá and accessible by cable car or funicular.

Bogotá is also one of the best cities in South America to start your trip around the region: its international airport is one of South America’s busiest , making it a transportation hub for the rest of this northern section of the continent. You’ll find regular flights in and out across the rest of the continent and affordable buses ready to take you across the rest of Colombia and beyond.

While you should take basic travel safety precautions no matter where you travel – at home and abroad! – you’ll feel safe in Bogotá, even if you solo travel in Bogotá .

12. Montevideo, Uruguay

You won’t generally hear much about Montevideo as a travel destination, but don’t let this deter you: there are so many reasons to travel to Montevideo . While many travelers compare Montevideo to a smaller and more relaxed Buenos Aires, this hidden gem of a city has plenty that makes it uniquely its own.

Start your visit to Montevideo by exploring its charming old town, filled with tree-lined streets, flea markets, historic architecture, and the famous Mercado del Puerto . It is easily walkable, and many streets are pedestrian-only, making exploring a must on any traveler’s itinerary. You can even take a free walking tour of colonial Montevideo to get your bearings.

Montevideo is also home to museums, galleries, cultural events, shops, cafes, and bars, plus even a few beaches , all easily accessible by affordable public transport, though this compact city is quite walkable.

From Montevideo, you’ll find plenty of transportation options across the country to Uruguay’s many beaches , from lively Punta del Este to the windswept hippie magnet of Punta del Diablo. There are also multiple daily ferries to Buenos Aires, and a busy international airport.

Travel Essential

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13. Salvador, Brazil

Located in the northeast corner of Brazil, Salvador is a beautiful and culturally rich city that is considered one of the best places to visit in Brazil. With a thriving Carnival celebration, great beaches, and a beautiful historic center, there is plenty to see and do on a trip to Salvador.

When you’re not hitting the beaches, you’ll love exploring Salvador’s old capital, including beautiful plazas lined with colorful buildings, old churches (including the famous Igreja e Convento de São Francisco), and wandering cobblestone streets.

There are also plenty of great day trips from Salvador to consider, including island destinations like Morro de São Paulo on Tinharé Island, and beach spots like Itacaré.

Salvador is also a place to learn about the dark history of Brazil’s colonial period. As the first capital of Brazil and an important port city for the sugar trade, Salvador was home to the first market selling enslaved peoples from Africa in the Americas.

An obligatory part of a visit to Salvador is learning about this history and experiencing the unique mix of African, Portuguese, and indigenous cultures that blend in Salvador today.

14. Ushuaia, Argentina

If you’re interested in exploring the stunningly beautiful southern tip of South America, Patagonia, consider starting your trip in Ushuaia, Argentina.

This relatively small city, known as the world’s most southern city, is also a gateway city for cruises to Antarctica. However, most travelers use the city as the starting point for an adventure in Patagonia.

One of the best things to do in Ushuaia proper is to visit Tierra del Fuego National Park. Here you’ll find plenty of gorgeous hiking trails where you can hike independently or with a guide. One of the best trails is the Laguna Esmeralda trail, which takes you to a remote lake surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains on all sides.

While the city doesn’t have much to offer travelers, its unique and enviable location makes it an incredible base for exploring one of the most beautiful areas of the continent.

Plan a Trip to Argentina

• 8 Best Beaches in Argentina
• Where to Stay in Buenos Aires
• 16 Best Things To Do in Argentina

15. Arequipa, Peru

Skip right over Lima (my LEAST favorite city in South America, by far) and head straight for the charming Peruvian city of Arequipa. Known as the “White City” for its abundance of architecture made from white volcanic stone, Arequipa is surrounded by several beautiful snow-capped volcanoes, adding to the city’s beauty.

You’ll have more than enough to do in Arequipa’s historic center. Make sure to visit the city’s cathedral and the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery, whose red walls and winding interior streets will make you feel like you’ve left the White City and headed somewhere entirely different.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, consider hiking El Misti Volcano – it’s a two-day trek , though doable. From Arequipa, you’ll also be within driving distance of some of Peru’s most important sites. Lake Titicaca on the Bolivian border is just 4.5 hours from Arequipa, while the stunning Colca Canyon is about a 2.5-hour drive.

While Arequipa might not be one of the most well-known South American cities, it deserves a spot on any list of the most charming destinations in South America. Whether you’re traveling solo, backpacking, or are on an unforgettable Peru family vacation , Arequipa is an excellent addition to your itinerary.

Read More: 15 Most Impressive Volcanoes in South America

16. Santiago, Chile

Santiago, Chile is a unique combination of bustling, modern capital city and history, quite unique among countless other cities in Latin America .

It’s home to South America’s largest skyscraper, Gran Torre Santiago, plus ultra-modern museums and big firms as one of Latin America’s most important financial centers. On the other hand, you’ll also find historic churches and plazas, the art deco Mercado Central, and plenty of quaint, tree-lined streets in the travelers-favorite neighborhood of Bellavista.

Nowhere is this more on display than in the Plaza de Armas, where Santiago’s historic cathedral sits just across the street from a giant glass shopping mall, towering many stories above it.

Whether you find the unique contrast of Santiago fascinating or off-putting, the is plenty to keep you busy and things to enjoy here. Make sure to eat at the Mercado Central, wander Bellavista and appreciate the street art, and climb Santa Lucia hill for an impressive view.

Don’t head out on your adventure without comprehensive travel insurance! Good travel insurance may cover lost or stolen gear, medical emergencies, delayed or canceled flights, and more.  Check out the policies available from  SafetyWing or compare plans using  Visitors Coverage .

17. Cuenca, Ecuador

As one of the most charming and beautiful South America cities, it’s no wonder why Cuenca, Ecuador has long been a favorite destination with North American expats who have relocated here in droves. A gorgeous historic center, spring-like weather year-round, and stunning mountain views make this laid-back city a favorite both for short-term and long-term travelers in Ecuador.

There’s plenty to see and do around Cuenca beyond just the city’s historic center, including the stunning Las Cajas National Park. Dramatic lunar-like landscapes in this high-altitude park make it one of the preferred destinations in Ecuador for hiking. Nearby, cities like Vilcabamba and Lojas are among some of the best destinations in Ecuador for those looking to extend their Ecuador itinerary .

• Cuenca, Ecuador: Ultimate Travel Guide
• 10 Best Beaches in Ecuador
• Ecuador Backpacking + Budget Travel Guide

18. Mendoza, Argentina

At the heart of the most renowned wine region in South America sits the small, relatively sleepy city of Mendoza, Argentina. Nestled along the slopes of the Andes mountains and just a short journey from the border of Chile, Mendoza is a laid-back spot surrounded by some of the world’s finest wineries , making it one of the best cities in South America to add to your itinerary.

Not a wine drinker? Don’t worry – there are plenty of things to do in Mendoza even if you can’t stand Malbec. Nearby hikes, cool parks, and awesome excursions make this city a favorite destination in Argentina for every type of traveler. If you are a wine drinker but can barely tell the difference between a red and a white, fear not: there are plenty of beginner-friendly wine experiences for you here as well.

One of the best places from which to experience both the natural beauty of Mendoza and its award-winning wines is Entre Cielos . This luxury boutique hotel and spa is nestled among the wineries and has beautiful suites with private patios suspended over the vines.

Read More: 20 Best Things To Do in Mendoza, Argentina

19. Lima, Peru

If you’ve read any of our other Peru content, you’ll probably know that, for the most part, I think Lima, Peru leaves much to be desired. Compared to more charming cities like Quito, Ecuador, and historically rich Cusco , Lima just feels like a lot of urban sprawl. 

So why is it on our list of the best cities in South America for travelers? A fairly attractive historic center, hip neighborhoods like Barranco, and an absolutely legendary, world-famous food scene give it just enough shine to make it worth more than just a layover on your way to some of the other great destinations in Peru and other cities in Latin America . 

Spend time sipping Pisco sours overlooking the Pacific Ocean, strolling and shopping through Barranco and Miraflores, and eating at world-famous restaurants like award-winning  Central  and  Maido . You’ll love what you find.

Read More: 25+ Best Things To Do in Peru

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

21 Best Places to Visit in South America

By Carl Austin · Last updated on May 6, 2024

South America is a continent of superlatives: the highest, the driest, the largest, the deepest, the rarest … Well, you get the picture. Superlatives galore can be found from Caracas to Tierra del Fuego, helping ensure every traveler finds something to interest them.

Environmentalists will enjoy the well-conserved Pantanal in Brazil, while shoppers can choose between upscale boutiques in big cities like Rio de Janeiro or the colorful markets of Andean villages. You can explore lost cities of ancient civilizations, feast your eyes on stunning scenery almost everywhere you go or you can feast your taste buds on the cuisine.

Map of South America

It’s your choice, and South America gives you lots of them. An overview of the best places to visit in South America :

21. Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a major city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. It was founded by the Spanish in 1533, who named it after Cartagena, Spain. During Spain’s domination in South America, the city was the center of politics and the economy.

Cartagena is a quite modern city today, but you’ll find walled historic center and the fortress, deemed the largest fortifications in South America, that defended it. Cartagena has a rich cultural scene, with festivals throughout the year; museums and art galleries.

See also: Where to Stay in Cartagena

20. Salvador, Brazil

Salvador da Bahia, also known as just Salvador, has several things going for it. The Portuguese founded it in 1548, so it’s one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas. You’ll see its rich past in Pelourinho, the historic center named for the whipping post where slaves were beaten.

Brazil’s third largest city was also the first slave port in the Americas; traces of this African heritage can be found in the local culture today, especially the cuisine. Salvador also is a party town, hosting the world’s largest party: its annual Carnival celebration.

19. Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

They don’t do things in a small way in Los Glaciares National Park. Not only is the park the largest national park in Argentina, it is home to the largest ice cap outside of Greenland and Antarctica – an ice cap that feeds 47 large glaciers. The most famous of these is the Perito Moreno glacier; unique among glaciers because it is advancing while others are receding.

The park also is home to Lake Argentino, the largest in the country. The park also is known for its ecology and biodiversity with the well-conserved Magellan Subpolar forest and Patagonian Steppe.

18. Pantanal, Brazil

The Pantanal can be difficult to get to – access is mostly by plane or boat – but once you get there…Oh! The Pantanal, located mostly in Brazil (some is in Bolivia and Paraguay), is the world’s largest tropical wetland, encompassing an area the size of Washington State.

While not as famous as its sister wetlands in the Amazon, the Pantanal is the best place in South America to see wildlife, ranging from jaguars to capybaras.

17. Ushuaia, Argentina

If you like to visit remote places, then put Ushuaia on your bucket list. The capital of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia is considered the southernmost city in the world. Indeed, the train to the End of the World ends here.

Nestled among the mountains along a bay, Ushuaia is very picturesque when it’s not cloudy or windy, which is much of the time. The former penal colony has a museum and it’s a good place to see penguins, orca whales and seals.

16. Tayrona National Park, Colombia

When protecting the environment and its inhabitants while enjoying stunning views is on your top list, you’re sure to enjoy Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast of Colombia.

The country’s second most visited national park, Tayrona is a protected marine reserve that takes in both land and sea. You’ll find great biodiversity in the flora and fauna here. Wildlife includes 300 species of birds, more than 100 different mammals and 70 kinds of bats.

Tayrona is probably best known for its spectacular beaches, which are set in deep bays, backed by mountains and shaded by coconut palms. Because of strong current however most beaches are not suitable for swimming.

15. Quito, Ecuador

Ecuador’s capital, Quito, is unique among world capitals. It is the highest capital in the world (La Paz is higher but isn’t Bolivia’s legal capital) and also closest to the equator. Founded by the Spanish in 1534, Quito’s colorful old town is one of the best-preserved, least changed and largest in all the Americas.

Located in Ecuador’s northern highlands, the city is surrounded by volcanoes that can be seen on a clear day. Quito is the only world capital that is threatened by active volcanoes.

14. Colca Canyon, Peru

There’s a reason Colca Canyon is the third most visited tourist destination in Peru: stunning views. The canyon is one of the deepest in the world, but not the deepest in Peru, though it is more than twice as deep as the U.S. Grand Canyon.

If you get tired of scenic views, you can feast your eyes on the sky where you may see Andean condors and the biggest hummingbirds you’ve ever seen. Villages are a good place to buy local handcrafts.

13. Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert is unique: It’s the driest non-polar desert in the world, maybe only raining once every four years. It stretches about 1,600 km (1,000 miles) along the coast of Chile, situated between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean.

The soil is comparable to that found on Mars; portions stood in for Mars in the movie, Space Odyssey: Voyage to the Planets. Vast salt flats, active geysers and intense blue lagoons are just a few of the extraordinary features of this region.

12. Angel Falls, Venezuela

Angel Falls is most definitely a scene stealer in Venezuela’s Guayana Highlands. It is the highest uninterrupted waterfall in the world – 15 times higher than Niagara Falls, which is shared by Canada and the United States. Water cascades more than 950 meters (3,200 feet) down Auyantepu Mountain into the Rio Kerepacupai Meru.

The waterfall is named for American Jimmy Angel who, in 1937, became the first pilot to fly over the falls. Getting there is an adventure involving plane and river boat rides.

11. Cusco, Peru

Cusco has a colorful historic past Located at 3,400 meters (11,000 feet) in elevation in the Andes Mountains, Cusco was once the capital of the mighty Inca Empire. Then, in the 16th century, it was conquered by the Spanish, who pretty much decimated the Incas.

Though not the national capital, Peru’s constitution names it the historical capital of the country. Remains of many Inca sites can be found in the surrounding area while the Spanish colonial heritage can be found in the Old Town.

10. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Situated in the Andes nearly 3,700 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat. Located in southwest Peru, the salt flat is covered by a thick crust, which provides salt and covers a brine.

The salt flat is as flat as you can get and with the harsh terrain looks otherwordly, especially after rain when the Salar turns into a giant mirror. One of the most unusual places to visit in South America, it’s also a major breeding ground for flamingos.

9. Lake Titicaca, Peru & Bolivia

Lake Titicaca, South America’s largest lake, straddles the border of Bolivia and Peru. At an elevation of just over 3,800 meters (12,500 feet), it is considered the highest navigable lake in the world, though there are smaller lakes higher than this one.

Many of its 41 islands are inhabited, including the floating islands the natives make with heavy reeds. About 500 species of aquatic life live in the lake, which has a large population of water birds. Local belief says the sun was born at Lake Titicaca.

8. Easter Island, Chile

Getting to Easter Island can be time-consuming, since it is the most remote inhabited island in the world. The nearest inhabitants are almost 1,300 miles away. But it’s not its remoteness this Chilean territory is noted for. It’s what you’ll see when you get there: almost 900 primitive statues carved by early Polynesian inhabitants.

These awesome statues, called moai, may have been carved about 1,000 years ago. Most statues were carved from solidified volcanic ash, with obsidian being used for the black eyes.

7. Amazon Rainforest

If you lived long enough to count that high, you could count 390 billion trees in the Amazon rainforest. This statistic is mind-boggling, to be sure, but then the Amazon rainforest is one awesome piece of real estate, covering about ¾ of the Amazon River basin.

It is the world’s largest tropical rainforest. Sixty percent of the rainforest is located in Brazil with sizeable chunks in Peru and Columbia; bordering countries have small shares. For sure, the rainforest is loaded with unique flora and fauna.

6. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

It may be located in remote Chilean Patagonia, but Torres del Paine National Park is one of Chile’s largest and most visited parks. Why? Well, the scenery is pretty spectacular.

The Torres del Paine (Paine means blue in the local indigenous language) is just one awesome sight you’ll see. The three peaks dominate the landscape in the Paine Mountains. Besides mountains, the park is dotted with glaciers, rivers, forests and steppe, making it a hit with outdoors enthusiasts. The park also is home to an endangered species of deer.

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

With 17 million people, Buenos Aires has the fourth largest population in the Americas. Located on the Rio de la Plata on the Argentinian coast, the city is noted for its cosmopolitan flair.

Because of its architecture and rich cultural life, Buenos Aires is the most visited city in South America. A must-see here is the Recoleta, a residential neighborhood known for its history. The Recoleta Cemetery is the district’s most famous attraction; it’s where Eva Peron is buried.

See also: Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

4. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

If you want to get a glimpse of what prehistoric animals may have looked like, head to the Galapagos Islands. The animals are like no other place on earth, and include giant tortoises and scary-looking iguanas.

They were the impetus for Charles Darwin’s controversial 19th century book, On the Origin of Species. This archipelago of 18 major islands, about 900 km (550 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, was formed – and are still being formed – by volcanic action.

3. Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina

One of the best places to visit in South America, Iguazu Falls have to be seen to be appreciated as mere words cannot do them justice. They truly live up to their name, which translates as “big water:” They’re the world’s largest waterfalls system, with 275 waterfalls of various sizes – Devil’s Throat is the biggest.

For much of its journey to the ocean, the Iguazu River flows through Brazil, but, seemingly in a spirit of international cooperation, most of the falls are in Argentina.

2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

When you visit Rio de Janeiro you simply must take a samba lesson; even The Girl from Ipanema does the samba, Rio’s most popular dance. Besides the samba, this cosmopolitan city is known for its Carnival, the bossa nova, and Copacabana Beach.

Its most famous landmark may be the Christ the Redeemer statue that sits atop Corcovado Mountain. Rio hosted the 2016 Summer Olympics, though its residents overwhelmingly prefer soccer: Maracana Stadium is one of the largest soccer stadiums in the world.

See also: Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu is a magnificent representation of the Inca civilization before the Spanish came. Nestled in the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu served as a palace for the emperor, a fortress and as a site for religious ceremonies where human sacrifices were made to appease the gods.

Untouched by the Spanish, the site was abandoned after the conquest, only to be “discovered” by an American professor in the early 1900s. Built from polished stones, Machu Picchu is a fascinating example of classical Inca architecture. With its spectacular views, Machu Picchu is Peru’s most visited tourist attraction.

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May 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm

kaiteur falls Guyana? i dont see how that was left out…

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23 Best Places to Visit in South America

South America, a continent pulsating with energy, is a treasure trove of destinations waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a culinary enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. It’s often overlooked by travelers for more popular destinations. I’m here to tell you that it shouldn’t be! There are so many places to visit in South America that you’ll find a place that is perfect for you. Discover the rainforest in Brazil or be enchanted by the colors of Colombia!

Be sure to check out the other dream destinations series: Africa , Asia , Europe, Oceania, and USA

If you like this post, be sure to sign up for my e-mail list for travel inspiration (and get your FREE budget printable), or connect with me on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , or Pinterest .

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you purchase something from a link, I may make a small commission at no cost to you! This helps me keep the site running and free.

Lençóis Marenhenses, Brazil

Recommended by sophie and adam of we dream of travel.

Tucked away on the north coast of Brazil is Lençóis Marenhenses National Park, home to one of the country’s most spectacular natural marvels.  Spread out over 383,000 acres you will discover one of the top dream destinations with endless stretches of undulating, windswept sand dunes and deep blue freshwater lagoons. 

In Portuguese, Lençóis Marenhenses literally means “bedsheets of Maranhão”, and after one glimpse of the blindingly white dunes, it’s easy to see how the area got its name. 

Due to its remote location, this extraordinary national park receives less than 5% of the number of visitors of the more popular natural attraction Iguaçu Falls.  As such, the best way to explore the area is through a guided tour on a buggy or jeep.  As the lakes are seasonal, the tours will take you to the fullest lakes depending on when you visit, where you can swim in the rainwater-filled lagoons.

You can also choose to visit by horseback, quad bike or even on foot at certain times of the year.   The dunes are best visited between June and September when the weather is cooler and the lakes are full.

It is also worth taking the time to explore the nearby Rio Preguicas by boat, kayak, or paddleboard. Barreirinhas is the main gateway to Lençóis Marenhenses and has a variety of accommodation options from basic pousadas to more upscale hotels.  There are also many restaurants here, although they are mostly Brazilian so expect similar menus at each. 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Recommended by victoria of guide your travel.

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most scenic cities in South America and should be at the top of your list of places to see. The iconic Copacabana is of course one of the best beaches in the area and is a great place for sunbathing, swimming, or playing volleyball. You can also find fantastic beach parties here especially during February when the annual carnival celebrations take place. No trip to Rio de Janeiro is complete without visiting the incredible Christ the Redeemer statue. The views of the surrounding area and city are absolutely stunning and can’t be missed. You can hike all the way to the top if you don’t mind working out in the high humidity climate of Brazil.

Of course, you can also take a bus which is far more relaxing. The nearby Botanical Gardens of Rio are also well worth a visit and a fantastic place for an afternoon walk or picnic. If you’re looking for a more formal place to eat head to Giuseppe Grill which serves authentic meat and delicious seafood. The best place to stay in Rio de Janeiro is close to the beach of Ipanema which is almost as beautiful as the Copacabana.

Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina

Recommended by margarita of the wildlife diaries.

Stretching for over 2.7 kilometers and comprising up to 300 separate waterfalls, Iguazu Falls is one of the most spectacular places to visit in South America. This epic waterfall system straddles the border between Brazil and Argentina and can be visited from both countries. About 80 percent of Iguazu Falls flow on the Argentine side, meaning that you get a bigger picture view of the falls from the Brazilian size, looking towards Argentina. And there are lots of ways to  experience Iguazu Falls  in Brazil. Start your day at Devil’s Throat. About half of the Iguazu River flows through this narrow chasm so the power of the falls here is extraordinary. You will need your raincoat for visiting this section of the falls if you are not keen on getting wet. For a more adventurous way to experience the falls, take the Macuco Safari speed boat ride that takes you underneath a thundering 80-meter tall waterfall. When you are ready for lunch, head to Restaurante Porto Canoas that sits on the bank of the Iguazu River, just before the river reaches the Devil’s Throat. The buffet lunch is a mouth-watering spread of traditional Brazilian cuisine and the view from the open-air terrace is quite spectacular. If you feel like a splurge, spend a night at Hotel das Cataratas, the only hotel within the National Park and you’ll have the falls to yourself outside of the park’s visiting hours. For a more economic option, consider Pousada Cris Garden Bed & Breakfast in the nearby town of Foz do Iguaçu.

Bogota, Colombia

Recommended by venaugh of venaugh.

The capital of Colombia, Bogotá, is an amazing vacation in South America. The weather is chilly since it is on the Andes mountains so be sure to carry a jacket. Also, rain is very unpredictable so you should always carry an umbrella with you. There are so many things to do, my top recommendation would be to go to  Monserrate, Bogotá  to get an amazing view of the city. From here you can also browse the city centre for a lovely day out. Some other great spots would be Parque Simon Bolivar, the Botanical Gardens, and exploring the Chico area around Parque 93.

This area is where I would recommend accommodation as well, at the Click Clack Hotel .  You can eat at the hotel or take a walk out to Parque 93. There are restaurants all around so you can just walk around till you see which you like most. Most have menus outside that you can check including Osaki and Wok. This area is one of the most expensive in Bogotá and it is generally very safe in comparison to other areas. Of course, as with any big city, be aware of your surroundings.

The Lost City, Columbia

Recommended by claire of this travel lover.

The Lost City, or  La Ciudad Perdida  in Spanish, is a unique place in South America, and one of my favourite places I visited during my  solo travels in Colombia .  You can only visit the ruins of the city by joining a tour, which involves a 2-day trek through the jungle to reach the city – and the same back.

The Teyuna people built their City deep in the forest around 800 AD.  It was abandoned during the Spanish conquest, and while local indigenous people still knew of its existence, the city was ‘lost’ to all outsiders for hundreds of years.  It was rediscovered by treasure hunters in 1972 when they stumbled across stone steps in the jungle leading to the city ruins.

There are various companies that are allowed to run tours to the city, and if you choose a company such as Wiwa Tours who have indigenous guides descended from the Teyuna people, they can teach you about their culture and traditions.  Tours start from the nearby city of Santa Marta, where you can arrange tours directly or via your accommodation.  For budget travellers, the Dreamer Hostel in Santa Marta is a great choice.

The trek itself is challenging due to humidity and mosquitoes and while accommodation along the way is basic it is certainly an adventure.  When you reach the Lost City, you can explore the ruins, walk around the terraces, and even meet the local shaman if you are lucky! 

Medellin, Colombia

Recommended by deborah of passport the world.

Medellín is one of the best cities to visit in Colombia.    It is often called “The city of eternal spring” because of the pleasant climate all year round. Medellín was known as one of the most dangerous cities in the world, because of the Medellín cartel.  But after the death of  drug lord Pablo Escobar, the city has gone through a huge transformation.  Nowadays Medellín is a bustling and cosmopolitan metropolis, where you easily can spend days.

One of the best things to do is to visit Comuna 13, a former slum, that has been transformed into a popular area, famous for its amazing street art and interesting social projects. Looking for great city views? Take the metro and change to the cable car, which will take you all the way up the mountain, while offering incredible views of Medellín and its surroundings.

Of course, you want to explore the city center, visit landmarks and stroll around Botero square. Here you’ll find the famous sculptures of Fernando Botero, Colombia’s most famous artist. But also other areas are worth exploring. El Poblado is Medellin’s most trendy neighborhood, with restaurants and design stores. La Hacienda is the place to be if you are looking for a traditional meal, such as bandeja paisa. Alambique is a trendy rooftop restaurant with great food and drinks. You’ll find a lovely hotel in El Poblado. It’s a great starting point for discovering the different sides of Medellín. Find more  things to do in Medellin Colombia.

Cartagena, Columbia

Recommended by adam of cartegena explorer.

Cartagena has to be considered one of the best places to visit in South America in 2023!  An important colonial port town, it was one of the jewels of the Spanish empire and it shows today with beautiful colonial architecture and neat historic walls and fortifications.  There are also  terrific beaches in Cartagena .

The best of those beaches are located out in the Rosario Islands nearby and they should be at or near the top of the list of things to do in Cartagena.  You will also want to spend some time taking in the charm of the historic Walled City and neighboring Getsemaní district, where you’ll find a mix of trendy cafés, bars, and restaurants mixed in with the historic houses.  The Castillo San Felipe fortress is also a must-see, as is taking a stroll along the city wall itself while looking out over the Caribbean.

It’s best to stay in the Walled City or in Getsemaní.  Casa San Agustín is the finest hotel in town, while the Casona del Colegio , Casa Claver Boutique, and Hotel Capellán are also all lovely options.  For where to eat, consider trying the wonderful fresh seafood served atop a colonial era fort at Club de Pesca, the fresh local fare served up at reasonable prices at La Mulata in the Walled City, and the neat dishes and drinks at Buena Vida Marisquería.

Sucre, Bolivia

Recommended by jen of dabbling in jet lag.

Sucre is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in Bolivia. Here you’ll find narrow cobblestoned streets lined with whitewashed colonial buildings, magnificent churches, and picturesque parks. In fact, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is often referred to as “The White City.” This combined with its laidback atmosphere attracts travelers of every kind. And, of course, there’s no shortage of  things to do in Sucre . For the best panoramic views head up to Recoleta. It’s a grueling climb to the top, but the views are spectacular! Afterward stop by Sucre’s largest market, Mercado Campesino, for a hearty meal. A delicious bowl of traditional soup is sure to satisfy your appetite and warm your soul.

No trip to Sucre is complete without seeing a dinosaur footprint. Visit Parque Cretacico for one of the largest collections or, if you’re up for an adventure, hike to Maragua Crater. You’ll walk through small villages on the outskirts of Sucre to a remote excavation site. It’s an unforgettable experience, to say the least! Then at the end of the day, there’s no better place to stay than Villa Oropeza Guest House. Relax in the spacious garden or in one of their gorgeous rooms.

Amazon Rainforest, Bolivia

Recommended by michelle of moyer memoirs.

The Amazon Rainforest covers over 2 million square miles in many different countries of South America.  One of the best places to experience the Amazon Rainforest is in Bolivia.  While the area is smaller, it is also less populated with tourists, less explored, and an overall cheaper travel destination.

To get to the Amazon is a long-haul trip by way of a tiny plane to the small town of Rurrenabaque, Bolivia, whose airport is no larger than a tractor shed.  This is followed by a 2-hour canoe ride to deep within the rainforest or a 3-hour 4×4 trip to the pampas, the wetland savanna on the edge of the jungle.

There are many tour companies that offer tours within the Amazon Rainforest of Bolivia.  They have eco-lodges, cabins, or simple huts for camping overnight.  They cook elaborate buffet meals for their guests in the meal halls.

Common activities for an  Amazon Rainforest trekking adventure  include piranha fishing, viewing the macaws in their natural habitat, swimming with pink dolphins, night walks through the jungle looking for anaconda, canoe rides past sun-basking caiman alligators, observing all the unique flora and fauna resident to the jungle and following the calls of the monkeys to catch a glimpse of them before they scatter in the tall trees.

The Salar de Uyuni Salt Falts, Bolivia

Recommended by claire of tales of a backpacker.

The Salar de Uyuni salt flats in southern Bolivia is one of the best things to do in Bolivia – and should definitely be on any South America itinerary.  While it is possible to visit the salt flats independently if you have your own vehicle, joining a tour is the easiest way to see the highlights of this incredible place.

If you’re short on time then you can arrange a day tour of the Salar from the town of Uyuni, but the 3- or 4-day  Bolivian salt flats tour from Tupiza , Uyuni, or San Pedro de Atacama in Chile is definitely worth the extra time if you can spare it, especially if you are travelling to Bolivia from Chile or Argentina or vice versa. 

With the longer tours, you will see more of the incredible Bolivian scenery, including striking coloured lagoons where flamingos feed.  On the salt flats themselves, watching the sunrise from Isla Incahuasi, an “island” in the middle of the salt desert is a must, as is exploring the train graveyard near the town of Uyuni.

Another highlight of the tours is spending the night in one of the salt hotels that are completely made of salt from the Salar.  Backpacker tours choose basic hotels, but the incredible Hotel Palacio de Sal is a four-star luxury salt hotel, and even has a swimming pool and spa!

Atacama Desert, Chile

Recommended by lori of travlinmad.

If you’re looking for adventure, one of the best places to visit in South America in 2023 is the  Atacama Desert in northern Chile . Situated between the Andes and the Chilean Coastal Range, the Atacama sits at an elevation of 8,200 feet above sea level and is the driest desert in the world. The landscape is parched and some areas of the Atacama have no recorded rainfall on record, ever. Pick up a rental car at the Calama Airport and venture out on your own rather than taking a guided tour. Base yourself in the town of San Pedro de Atacama and from there visit the Atacama salt flats and the Valle de la Luna for incredible sunsets.

Long before sunrise one day, head for the El Tatio Geysers at over 14,000 feet to see the geysers erupt and steam fumaroles in action. The place to stay in San Pedro is the Hotel Altiplanico, just a short walk into town. For dinner, Baltinache is a lovely restaurant serving unique Chilean dishes. There’s a lot to see in this otherworldly landscape, and you can combine a trip here with nearby Bolivia or the Central Valley around Santiago Chile.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Recommended by claudia of my adventures across the world.

If there is a place that screams South America more than any other, that is Machu Picchu, in Peru. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 15th-century citadel represents the peak moment of the Inca civilization. The site is located at more than 2,400 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains of Peru, above the Urubamba Valley. Upon visiting, you will notice that the royal areas of the city are all built with dry-stone walls – without use of mortar; whereas the more modest dwellings see the use of mortar instead. Buildings at Machu Picchu have specific astronomical alignments. Machu Picchu is best explored on guided tours. The site is spread out, and there is a lot to see – including a hike to Wayna Picchu mountain, for impressive views of Machu Picchu from above, and a walk to the Puente del Inca. So, only a guide can swiftly take you to all the most significant places.

The nearest point of access to Machu Picchu is Aguas Calientes, a small town about 100 km from Cuzco, in the Sacred Valley. There are regular buses covering the distance between the town and the site. If you are feeling adventurous, you should walk the  Inca Trail , a 4-days hike that follows the sacred route the Incas would walk to get to Machu Picchu. The highlight of the hike is seeing the sunrise over Machu Picchu.

Aguas Calientes Offers a wide range of accommodation and eating options. One of the best places to stay in town is Tierra Viva Machu Picchu Hotel. Julian is definitely the top choice in terms of restaurants.

Cusco, Peru

Recommended by mal of raw mal roams.

Cusco is an excellent small town to visit in Peru, not just as a base for the local hike such as Machu Picchu but also for the local vibe, rich history, and excellent food scene. 

Visit Plaza de las Armas the most prominent square in Cusco, surrounded by beautiful churches and impressive colonial architecture. Stroll along many side streets coming off the main square teaming with life, street food, and colorful souvenirs. If you’re planning to buy something in Cusco, try one of the alpaca sweaters or huts. Make sure you walk slowly, as Cusco is situated at an altitude of 3,399 meters above sea level, and you may feel out of breath sooner than you think. For an impressive panoramic view over the entire town and surrounding areas, climb to the top of the bell tower at Saint Cristobal Church, located a few minutes’ walk from the town centre. 

There are also many exciting day trips you can take from Cusco. Apart from the most famous Machu Picchu hike, there is also a hike situated at a whopping 5,200 m Rainbow Mountain known for its beautiful colours.  Stay in the midrange boutique hotel El Balcon with traditional rooms, a spectacular view over the town, and an excellent daily breakfast. 

Colca Canyon, Peru

Recommended by linn of brainy backpackers.

One of the most impressive places to visit in South America is Colca Canyon in Peru, the world’s second deepest canyon. There is no arguing, this makes for one of the  best hikes in Peru  and can be done in two days. You can hike with a guide and the first day you will walk all the way down to the bottom of the canyon to spend the night in an oasis. Early, before sunrise the next day, you will have to hike straight up again. The views are spectacular and though it is a tough hike, it is worth it.

But for those that don’t want to sweat it for days to end, there are day trips from Arequipa that take you along the top of the canyon. The highlight is to see the Condor. One of the largest birds in the world with a wingspan of up to 3 meters. Usually, they are seen hunting in the early morning, so tours typically leave Arequipa at 4 am in the morning to make sure to reach the Cruz del Condor viewpoint at the time when it is most likely to see them. While they are wild animals and there is no guarantee to see them, the chances are big. And it is an experience of a lifetime!

Easter Island, Chile

Recommended by jackie of life of doing.

Traveling to the remote island, Easter Island (also referred to as Rapa Nui in the Rapa Nui Polynesian language), off of Chile is such a fascinating place to visit. 

Easter Island is famous for the moai , large statues with huge heads and bodies made from stone. They can reach a height of 13 feet (4 meters). Many are erected on the ahu platform or are lying on the ground waiting to be restored and erected. It remains a mystery why they were built. You can find these moai around the island and the main tourist sites at Rano Raraku and Ahu Tongariki.

Other fun things to do on Easter Island include snorkeling and diving (depending on the current weather conditions) and exploring underground caves. You can also go on an all-day hike around half of the island and see the coastlines. 

The best place to eat is at Club Sandwich. It’s a simple place but serves the most monstrous size burgers and sandwiches for a good value. Try the tuna sandwich which comes with a thick layer of avocado. As with accommodations, stay on a campsite, guesthouses, Airbnbs, or luxury resorts. We stayed at an Airbnb with a private room and bathroom, and it was about 5-minutes away from the main town by walking. 

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Recommended by me, the directionally challenged traveler.

Nicknamed the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires has so many things to experience! You can enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and experiences of this beautiful city. 

One of the most unique things to do in Buenos Aires is to pay your respects at the Recoleta Cemetery. It’s the resting place of many powerful and famous of Argentina – including Evita Peron. The architecture is stunning, but be respectful to others visiting. 

The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is home to incredible artwork from South America and around the world. Peruse through San Telmo Market on a Sunday. There are tons of antiques, handmade items, and street food! Learn to tango at a class – Buenos Aires is the home of the tango! At the heart of the city, you’ll see the floralis generica – a 105-foot wide giant metallic flower. It blooms every day at 8 am and closes each night as a symbol of rebirth.

For a break from the city, head to the Tigre to explore the delta. You can take the train for only 6 pesos ($.38 USD) and takes about an hour. You can get on the water in a sculling boat or kayak for some exercise. It’s a great way to see the area. 

Mendoza Wine Region, Argentina

Recommended by cecily of groovy mashed potatoes.

If you are a wine lover and are looking for a place to unwind, you won’t want to miss adding Mendoza to your  Argentina itinerary . The scenic wine region is located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains and has over 1,500 wineries, making it Argentina’s largest wine region. The New World wine region is most notable for its Malbec grapes, which create a wonderful full-bodied red that pairs perfectly with a juicy steak. Malbec grapes are also one of the six grape varieties allowed in a French Bordeaux wine.

Spend your days touring unique wineries, eating delicious Argentine cuisine and relaxing at your charming vineyard hotel. Winery visits need to be made by appointment. It’s best to hire a private driver so you can try all the wine you please. Organize two winery tours and a winery lunch per day. Any more than this and your head will be spinning from all the wine tastings!

Must-visit wineries are Chandon Winery, the first Moet and Chandon winery established outside of France, and O’Fournier, a spectacular winery with a James Bond-esque architecture. For a delectable winery lunch, don’t miss dining at Bodega Azul on their outside patio.

Stay at Casa de Huespedes Finca La Azul, a quaint boutique hotel sitting on the vineyard with fantastic views of the Andean Mountains. The service here is exceptional. It’s the perfect place to unwind by the pool after a day of winery hopping.

Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia is a small city located at the base of Argentina. It’s typically not thought about unless you’re visiting Antarctica. Most cruises to Antarctica leave from the port of Ushuaia. However, there are more things to do in Ushuaia than just the hotel!

The nickname “City at the End of the World” or “Fin del Mundo” was given to Ushuaia because it is considered the southernmost city in the world. There are towns and villages that are more south, but not cities. It was built as a prison town. Prisoners from Buenos Aires and other places around Argentina sent their prisoners to Ushuaia. The catch? The prisoners had to build their own prison! They hiked with oxen into the nearby National Park for supplies, but eventually built the Souther Fuegian Railway to bring lumber and supplies down. (The train is now nicknamed “ Train at the End of the World” or “tren del fin del Mundo “) The prison closed in 1947 and is now a naval base in town. You’ll find remnants of the history of Ushuaia all around town – from the railway itself to historic train cars.

After your train ride, be sure to explore Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego (the National Park). There are some wonderful hikes with breathtaking views! You can see the mountains of Chile across the channel. Get your souvenirs at Feria de Artesonos – an artfully decorated building that’s home to incredible art. Don’t forget to get a freshly made churro at Dooley’s Churros! If you’re in Argentina, be sure not to miss Ushuaia!

Cuenca, Ecuador

Recommended by megan of packing up the pieces.

The  colonial city of Cuenca Ecuador  is one of the best places to visit in South America in 2023. The charming historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts picturesque Plazas, authentic markets, and a new streetcar that connects the best Cuenca attractions. Cuenca has a lovely walking path along the River Tomebamba. Stop by the colorful Flower Market, or appreciate the free Pumapungo ruins in the heart of the city. For the best views of Cuenca, catch the sunset at Mirador Turi.

Cuenca offers incredible day trips, like hiking in Cajas National Park. After a high altitude hike in the Andes, soak in the thermal hot springs of Baños de Cuenca, found on the rim of an extinct volcano. The largest Inca ruins in Ecuador are just over an hour away at Ingapirca. There area a handful of nearby artisanal villages that produce specialty items and should not be missed

The best places to eat in Cuenca are found at the local markets. Try the authentic pork dish of hornados at Mercado 10 de Agosto. Doña Elsita maybe has the most delicious plates of hornados in town. Sleep in the heart of Cuenca by staying at C asa Montalvo Bed & Breakfast .

Mindo, Ecuador

Recommended by jade of the migrant yogi.

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path for your next South American adventure, look no further than the cloud forest of Mindo, Ecuador . Located a mere three hours by bus from the Ecuadorian capital, Quito, Mindo is a nature lovers’ dream. In this charming town, you can find everything from zip lining and canyoning to checking out chocolate factories and a butterfly farm.

Surrounded by lush vegetation and the Andes Mountains, you can imagine the ample opportunities for seeing the local wildlife as well. Mindo is famed for being one of the earth’s best biodiversity hotspots – bird watching here is among the top things to do. If you’re a night owl, you can always take a night walk through the cloud forest (with a local guide, of course), to admire some of the area’s nocturnal species, such as the elusive kinkajou.

There are a number of restaurants in town to choose from. One of the best places to eat is El Chameleon, located in the center of town. You can find a number of vegan and vegetarian options at this expat-owned popular restaurant.

The entire town is pedestrian-friendly, but taxis are available in case you’re tired from all of the adventure activities.

Galapagos, Ecuador

Recommended by isabella of boundless roads.

A Unesco Heritage site and a protected area just 600 miles off the Ecuadorian coast, the Galapagos Island are a dream destination for every nature lover.   It’s in fact considered one of the world’s foremost destinations for wildlife viewing and you can find thousands of spectacular animal species including many endemic ones, and the beauty of it is that you can get close to them in their natural environment as they don’t feel threatened by humans.

You will be surrounded by the funny blue-footed boobies marine iguanas and most of all the cute sea lions (make sure you don’t touch them) There are different ways to visit the Galapagos Islands. If you are on a budget you may want to fly either from Guayaquil or Quito to San Cristobal or to Santa Cruz, the two most developed islands and explore with tours and island hopping. 

I would recommend a Galapagos cruise , even if it may seem a little more expensive, but it is also the only possible way to visit the most untouched and remote islands. In this case though, in order to find the best deals but also the itinerary that you want you will need to book somewhat in advance. Some operators also include domestic flights from Guayaquil or Quito.   There are cruises for every budget and style, but most of all you can choose the best itinerary according to what you want to see.  Regardless of how you decide to travel, the Galapagos Islands will amaze you. 

Quito, Ecuador

Recommended by sydney of a world in reach.

If you’re looking for a cheap destination with plenty of culture and beauty, make sure to add Quito, Ecuador to your radar for 2023 travel.

The star of the city is Quito’s Old Town, which is one of the best-preserved colonial centers in South America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can explore beautiful churches and monasteries dating back to the 16th century. For incredible views of Quito, take the TeleferiQo up the side of Pichincha Volcano, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the sprawling city. From here, you’ll be able to appreciate its unique layout: Quito is about 25 miles long but just over 3 miles wide.

Another must-do in Quito is taking a day trip to visit Ecuador’s namesake: the Equator. You can visit the equator at two different sites: the Intiñan Museum and the Middle of the World Monument. You can’t visit a new destination without sampling its cuisine, and Mercado Central is a must for your Quito itinerary . The market is home to numerous stalls selling favorite local dishes for super low prices – you can easily get a multi-course meal for less than $5 USD.

Accommodation is cheap in Quito – you can find boutique hotels and luxurious Airbnbs for prices similar to cheap hotels in major US and European cities. Masaya Hotel Quito is a great choice near the Old Town.

Recommended by Claudia of My Adventures Across The World

If you are looking for a truly unique, lesser-known destination for your 2023 travels in South America, head to Guyana. Set between Venezuela, Brazil, and Suriname, Guyana is home to many sites of unique natural beauty and interesting indigenous cultures and is a perfect place to visit for extreme adventure kind of travelers and anyone who has a knack for wildlife and birdwatching. Among the best things to do in Guyana, there is piranha fishing in the Amazon basin. The best place to do that is Rewa River, where the local community will show you the secrets to how it is done. While comforts in this part of the country are little, this is a great place to completely disconnect from the stress of daily life. 

Visiting the capital Georgetown is another must. The city has a fabulous Caribbean feel! Make sure to visit the local markets and then head to a rum distillery for a tasting experience.  The cherry on the cake of a trip to Guyana, however, is  Kaieteur Falls . Beautifully remote, this one-drop waterfall only receives a handful of visitors daily. It can be reached via flights from Georgetown (the view from the plane is absolutely breathtaking) or after a challenging 5 day guided hike through the jungle. Once there, you will be guided to various viewpoints to admire the waterfall in all its might. 

For a comfortable stay in Georgetown, opt for Cara Lodge, a nice heritage hotel with comfortable rooms and a lush garden. The best restaurant in town is The Backyard Café. chef Delven Adams prepares interesting, tasty dishes using local ingredients he gets daily from the local market. If you care to try Guyanese Food, make sure to eat cook-up rice – a dish of rice and beans that can be found in any eatery in the country.

Pin “Dream Destinations in South America” for Later!

Which one of these are you most excited to visit? Let me know in the comments!

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I can’t wait to travel to South America for the first time! There are some beautiful locations in your blog post that I’ve now added to my list.

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Best places to visit in central and south america in 2023-2024.

From misty rainforests to mountainous national parks to cities brimming with culture, both Central America and South America boast a variety of destinations that appeal to all types of travelers. Because of this, choosing just one vacation spot from all of the excellent options available can seem daunting. To help, U.S. News ranked the top places to visit in both regions based on factors like scenery, culture, dining and attractions, as well as traveler votes and expert opinions. Do you have a favorite destination in these regions? Vote below to help us determine the best places to visit in Central and South America. (Note: Some of the below destinations may have travel advisories in place due to civil unrest or crime. Check with the U.S. Department of State before traveling.)

Argentine Patagonia

Chilean patagonia, galapagos islands, torres del paine national park, easter island, rio de janeiro, buenos aires.

Argentine Patagonia is a treat for all travelers, not just those with a penchant for adventure. From its diverse wildlife (such as Magellanic penguins, Andean cats and southern elephant seals) to its majestic Andes Mountains and jaw-dropping glaciers, this region showcases Mother Nature at its best. Even the most amateur of photographers will appreciate the palette of incredible colors on display here. Can't-miss places for first-timers include the Argentine Lake District, Mount Fitz Roy and the Perito Moreno Glacier, which sits 50 miles west of the gateway town of El Calafate.

Chilean Patagonia offers some of South America's most incredible landscapes . The Tierra del Fuego archipelago is a must-visit destination here. These islands are home to storied sites like Cape Horn – the southernmost tip of South America that requires years of experience to expertly sail around – as well as the capital of Porvenir, a small settlement known for its charming Victorian houses and picturesque surroundings. Travelers can also visit the penguin-filled Isla Magdalena, catch a glimpse of humpback whales feeding at Francisco Coloane Marine Park or trek through Torres del Paine National Park, a place so prominent it earned its own spot on this ranking.  

The Galápagos Islands are best known for their colorful creatures, ranging from giant tortoises to blue-footed boobies to penguins. The islands are also famous for helping Charles Darwin develop his theory of natural selection. Today, animals still reign supreme (of the more than 120 islands, islets and rocks that comprise the Galápagos archipelago, only four are inhabited by humans). Getting here will cost you, as the remote islands sit about 600 miles off of the coast of Ecuador. Save up for a luxurious small ship cruise to make the journey almost as memorable as the destination.

Reaching this remote national park in Chilean Patagonia isn't easy, but beholding the ice fields of Grey Glacier and the soaring peaks of the Cuernos del Paine are more than worth the trip. And with 448,000-plus acres of diverse land to explore, visitors will find boredom near impossible in this once-in-a-lifetime destination. Some of Torres del Paine's most popular trails include the challenging W Trek (a multiday feat past stunning lakes, mountains and glaciers) and the easier Mirador Las Torres hike. Before venturing into the wild, be sure to stock up on essentials in a nearby city like Puerto Natales.

Costa Rica is a natural wonderland. The tropical country features volcanoes to hike and lush rainforests to traverse on foot or by zip line. Plus, it boasts a refreshingly laid-back culture. Relaxation seekers can immerse themselves in the "pura vida" lifestyle and bask at the beaches in Guanacaste or along the Nicoya Peninsula's roughly 80 miles of coast. No visit would be complete without walking around historic San José and trying traditional delicacies like picadillo de chicasquil, a hash-like dish made with tree spinach. And to indulge on your vacation, consider staying at one of Costa Rica's all-inclusive resorts .

A bucket list destination for travelers all over the world, this remote island (a Chilean territory) sits more than 2,000 miles off of the coast of Chile and enchants adventurers with its distinctive moai statues. These curious, well-preserved stone statues can be found throughout the island, but to ensure you don't miss the island's must-sees and unique history, hire a local guide to show you Rapa Nui National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site that also happens to have one of the world's most beautiful beaches ). Of particular note is Rano Raraku, a volcanic crater that boasts 400 statues.

Colorful colonial architecture and stunning beaches come together in this vibrant Colombian city on the Caribbean coast. The popular old town area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features structures that date back to the 16th century, including a roughly 7-mile stretch of walls that helped fend off naval attacks for centuries. Today, the walls provide excellent vantage points for gazing at the city and sea. The nearby Rosario Islands, with their highly regarded beaches and coral reefs, offer equally breathtaking vistas.

With its scenic beaches, leafy mountains and lively nightlife, Rio de Janeiro makes for a fun getaway any time of year. Whether you're looking to attend the city's larger-than-life Carnival celebration (which takes place in February or March) or explore Brazil's gorgeous natural landscape, Rio has it all. While here, don't miss a visit to the renowned landmark Christ the Redeemer, a 98-foot-tall statue of Jesus Christ that sits at the top of Mount Corcovado. After taking in the attraction's sweeping city views, head down to the coast for a stroll on world-famous Ipanema Beach.

Known as "The City of Eternal Spring" for its year-round temperate weather, Medellín is Colombia's second-largest city. Visit the neighborhood of Comuna 13 (once considered one of the most dangerous areas in Medellín) to take in the colorful buildings and artistic graffiti reflecting the city's history. Ride on one of the outdoor escalators in the neighborhood for spectacular views. For a more Technicolor experience, travel to Medellín in August when the city hosts its annual flower festival where visitors can see extravagant flower arrangements on display. Other popular attractions include El Castillo Museum and Gardens, Plaza Botero and the city's many parks.

Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Belize offers scenic shorelines, unique wildlife and some of Central America's best dive sites. Snorkeling and diving in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Great Blue Hole are major draws, but so are the country's ancient ruins, animal sanctuaries and relaxing beaches. To see Xunantunich and Caracol, two of Belize's best-known Mayan ruins, venture about 75 miles southwest of Belize City to the Cayo District. Meanwhile, nature lovers can visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary or Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, and sun-seekers can head to South Water Caye or the 16-mile Placencia Peninsula for sandy beaches.

Not only does Quito, Ecuador, boast one of the highest elevations in the world among capital cities (9,350 feet above sea level), but the entire city is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take time to get yourself acclimated to the high altitude by admiring the historic city center's buildings, which are some of Latin America's best-preserved and least altered. To learn more about Ecuador and to view an impressive collection of pre-Columbian archaeology and Inca artifacts, peruse the Museo Nacional del Banco Central. When you're ready to climb higher, head to the TelefériQo gondola for unparalleled views of Quito.

The Chilean capital has undergone quite the renaissance since it was founded in the 1500s. You'll discover neoclassical architecture rubbing elbows with modern skyscrapers, plus Spanish and European influences intermingling everywhere. The best way to take in the city's unique style is to walk its streets and barrios (neighborhoods), stopping at attractions like the historical Plaza de Armas – where you'll find the Metropolitan Cathedral and Central Post Office – along the way. Additionally, the area surrounding Santiago features numerous wineries and ski slopes.

It's hard not to fall in love with the wide boulevards, alluring architecture and Parisian-style cafes of Buenos Aires. In addition to its good looks, Argentina's capital city is teeming with culture. Plan to visit its world-class National Museum of Fine Arts, colorful Palermo neighborhood and bustling Corrientes Avenue, where you'll find an array of theaters, bars and tango clubs. Then, head to the upscale Recoleta neighborhood to take in some of Buenos Aires' grandest sites, including El Ateneo Grand Splendid (a converted theater that is now one of South America's most beautiful bookstores) and Recoleta Cemetery.

High in the Andes, the Colombian capital has seen a revival in tourism in recent years. Bogotá has been the cultural center of the country for centuries, offering architecturally interesting buildings that line charming cobblestone streets. To get an overview of the city's rich heritage, travelers should check out the Botero Museum's incredible art and the Gold Museum's priceless treasures. Additional must-dos include exploring the beautiful flora at José Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden and climbing Monserrate, an imposing hill with a church and shrine at its peak.

Guatemala features the cultural and natural wonders synonymous with Central America while remaining relatively unspoiled. Adventurers seeking off-the-beaten-path excitement can spend their time traversing misty rainforests, climbing active volcanoes, exploring the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey and zip lining over Lake Atitlán. Meanwhile, the charming city of Antigua boasts colonial architecture and cobblestone streets with the looming Volcán de Agua volcano in the background. Like its neighbors, Mexico and Belize, Guatemala is home to several important Mayan ruins, including Tikal and Iximché, and serene beaches, such as the black sand Monterrico .

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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15 Best Places To Visit in South America According to Travelers

Posted: March 19, 2024 | Last updated: March 19, 2024

South America is a treasure trove of coffee plantations, tropical beaches, delicious food, and natural beauty. It’s no wonder travelers are constantly booking trips back to this continent to explore its many wonders.

1. Patagonia, Chile and Argentina

Patagonia is located between Chile and Argentina and is famous for its treks, reserves, forests, landscapes, native wildlife, and glaciers. It also offers some of the best whale-watching, is home to the largest Magellanic Penguin colony, and has one of the world’s last glaciers still growing.

2. The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands inspired Darwin’s evolution theory. They are one of the world’s most volcanically active regions and Ecuador’s first national park, with 97% of the landmass designated as a national park in 1959. These beautiful islands offer history, intrigue, wildlife, and panoramic views, which is why travelers love them.

3. Cuzco, Peru

Cuzco was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, as it used to be the capital of the Inca Empire and retains its ancient stone architecture. If this kind of ancient history appeals to you, you’ll be in your element visiting Cuzco.

4. Santiago, Chile

Step into a world of culture when you step into Santiago. The capital city of Chile houses gorgeous art galleries and museums, like the Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Fine Arts. If it’s not the culture you’re after, Santiago’s cuisine scene will undoubtedly tickle your taste buds. Tuck into empanadas and asado at one of the many bars and restaurants in the city.

5. Lake Titicaca, Peru and Bolivia

This World Heritage Site is South America’s largest freshwater lake and one of the world’s twenty ancient lakes. While you can swim in the lake, it’s not recommended as it’s so cold. The main attractions are the floating islands of totora reeds that grow in the lake. You can take a boat to the floating islands.

6. Ollantaytambo, Peru

Ollantaytambo was the Incan Emperor Patchacuti’s royal estate. Outside of Machi Picchu, this area has some of the most incredible Incan Ruins and is well worth a visit. If you plan to stay in Ollantaytambo, there are many day trips that you can take to nearby sites that history enthusiasts will love.

7. Bogotá, Colombia

The country of Colombia is a firm favorite amongst travelers who’ve visited South America. It’s most well known for producing delicious Arabica coffee, throwing the most lively parties, and the passionate and friendly people who live there.

8. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni was another suggestion many travelers recommended visiting in South America. As the most extensive salt flat in the world at over 6,574 miles, it’s worth adding to the travel bucket list.

9. Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador

The Quilotoa Loop is Ecuador’s most famous trek for good reason. Hike across dusty paths, deep valleys, small settlements, and green hills. The trail begins or ends (depending on where you start) at the impressive Quilotoa Lake, a crater lake formed after an enormous eruption over 600 years ago.

10. Cuenca, Ecuador

One traveler said that Cuenca was her biggest surprise when visiting Ecuador, as it was a beautiful yet underrated city. Cuenca has incredible scenery, distinct and delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals, all contributing to a fantastic travel experience.

11. San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina

Bariloche is a mountain town located in northern Patagonia. Travelers love this spot because of the expansive amount of activities available, such as skiing at Catedral Alta Patagonia, taking the chairlift to see Lake Nahuel Huapi, and hiking the Cerro Llao Llao or Refugio Frey,

12. Banos, Ecuador

Nature lovers will feel like they’ve arrived in paradise when they visit Banos. The town sits at the base of the active Tungurahua Volcano and has been termed the “Gateway to the Amazon.” From Banos, you can explore impressive volcanoes, abundant wildlife, and national parks.

13. Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Ecuador

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is another item on the bucket list for nature enthusiasts. It abounds in incredible wildlife and has some of the most beautiful jungle scenery and views of the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

14. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is known as the Paris of South America, and it has a Latin atmosphere, French architecture, museums, and art galleries. The city has a plethora of things to do, from eating your way through their steakhouses and watching a live Tango performance to walking the tree-lined streets of Palermo and enjoying Carlos Thays Botanic Garden.

15. Ciapata Diamantina National Park, Brazil

Travelers love a trip to this national park in Brazi. The ecosystem varies from the dry Cerrado to the tropical Mata Atlantica, and everywhere, you’ll find beautiful orchids and bromelia, and you may even be lucky enough to spot a jaguatirica or puma. Trek through the park for the scenery and shower beneath Brazil’s highest waterfall while spending time in Ciapata Diamantina National Park.

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13 of the best places in Colombia to soak up salsa, sunshine and more

Feb 11, 2024 • 9 min read

Colombia is famed for its magnificent landscapes and its energetic cities, filled with street murals and Latin culture © Kris Davidson / Lonely Planet

If you have any preconceptions about Colombia , leave them at home. This remarkable country will take you by surprise.

The second-most biodiverse nation in the world harbors vast swaths of wildlife-rich Amazon jungle in its interior, while coral-white beaches, dizzying mountains and leafy highland coffee plantations crown Colombia as a place of extraordinary natural contrasts. 

But this thrilling corner of South America is much more than the sum of its natural parts. Its kinetic cities buzz with an upbeat energy that sets Colombia apart from most of the continent, proving that this once-troubled country has well and truly shed its history of conflict. 

With adventure and infectious beats around practically every corner, picking the best places to visit in the country can be a challenge. However, thanks to plentiful domestic flights and long-distance buses , Colombia is a place where it's easy to cover plenty of ground, even on a short trip.

To help you with the planning, here are the best places to visit in Colombia.

1. Cartagena

Best for architecture and atmosphere

At the top of most travelers' bucket lists for Colombia is the sultry city of Cartagena , and it's easy to see why. The stately old town is a magical walled complex of bougainvillea-slung cobblestone streets and shady squares where local performers shake, stamp and twirl, the living embodiment of the city's famous energy.

Absorbing the atmosphere of Cartagena can be as spirited – or as languid – as you choose. Laze the day away on Playa de Bocagrande or sit down to long, leisurely lunches of sharp coconut ceviche at a family-run restaurant. At night, indulge in a sundowner on a rooftop bar and sample the energetic vibe of the city's bars and clubs.

Planning tip: The heart of Cartagena – comprising the historical districts of El Centro and San Diego within the city walls – is best explored on foot so you can soak up the atmosphere.

2. The Amazon jungle

Best for wildlife encounters

Colombia lays claim to an extraordinary glut of flora and fauna that should place it on any wildlife lover's must-see list. While it covers a third of Colombia's territory, the Amazon jungle can be tricky to access, yet it remains the prime location for encountering tropical wildlife in vast swaths of untouched rainforest.

Book a tour into the rainforest from the remote outpost of Leticia and spend a couple of nights exploring one of the globe's wildest places. Boat trips putter along the Río Amazonas, and remote trails across the forest floor promise encounters with inquisitive pink river dolphins, sluggish sloths and a cacophony of howler monkeys.

3. Zona Cafetera

Best for coffee lovers

If there's one thing that keeps Colombia running, it's coffee. Find out what all the fuss is about by exploring the Zona Cafetera , Colombia's coffee heartland. Filling the lush hillsides of the departments of Risaralda, Caldas and Quindío are green plantations growing Colombia's magic arabica beans. Many family-run fincas (farms) have opened their doors to curious tourists, with day tours and overnight stays offering a deep dive into coffee culture.

Planning tip: Organize your transport to coffee country from the regional hubs of Manizales and Pereira .

4. Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Best for combining nature and beaches

Home to palm-lined tropical beaches and secluded coves, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona is one of Colombia's natural jewels. Set on the Caribbean coastline east of Santa Marta , this national park is a paradise of relaxation against the dramatic backdrop of the looming Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains.

Chilling on sun-soaked beaches or ambling along the jungle trails that edge the coastline are the flavor of the day here, as water currents at most beaches are too dangerous for swimming. To avoid the crowds, head by speedboat to Playa Cristal , an isolated island with pristine waters and gleaming beaches.

Planning tip: Time your visit to Tayrona outside of January or February, when the park typically closes for maintenance. And consider tacking on a visit to  Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados  in the Zona Cafetera, as part of  an ambitious four-day itinerary . 

5. Medellín

Best for street art

Once the stronghold of Colombia's most infamous drug lord, Pablo Escobar, modern Medellín is a city reborn. Backpackers will find fun in the city's plethora of hip music venues, while travelers seeking a more sophisticated stay can enjoy well-heeled neighborhoods that court visitors with shady restaurant terraces and slick bars. Known for its perennially spring-like climate, Medellín holds a boundless appeal, making it one of the best cities to visit if you're short on time, and it's also a gateway to the Zona Cafetera. 

For art lovers, the imprint of Colombian heavyweight, Fernando Botero, is visible throughout the city, with his emblematic, engorged statues adding humor to rowdy market squares. To get deeper under the city's skin, visit the urban regeneration projects at Comuna 13 and Moravia to see how street art and innovative forms of transport are injecting life into formerly down-at-heel neighborhoods.

Planning tip: For a change of pace, a ride on a modern cable car will spirit you up and out of the valley into Parque Arví , a nature reserve with pre-Hispanic trails through forests adorned with orchids.

6. Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

Best for archaeological adventures

For a tantalizing glimpse into the past, head to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta , a mountain range that slices across the northeast of Colombia. After a tough three-day hike through thick jungle, you'll reach Colombia's finest archaeological site, La Ciudad Perdida .

The stone terraces of this once-crowded city were built around 850 CE along a steep-sided ridge, and the site was only reclaimed from the jungle in the 1970s. Accessible only on a tour, La Ciudad Perdida remains remote, untouched and blissfully free of tourists.

Planning tip: Book tours to La Ciudad Perdida through agencies such as Expotur in Santa Marta.

7. La Guajira Peninsula

Best for learning about Indigenous culture

Wild expanses of desert sit alongside the splendid blue of the Caribbean Sea in one of Colombia's most remote and unique corners. The Indigenous Wayuu people who call the Guajira Peninsula  home have defied invaders throughout history, and still live here in secluded villages, following their own unique rhythms.

Planning tip: To appreciate the dazzling wildness of Colombia's northernmost point, you'll need to organize a tour from Riohacha. Aim to spend at least one night on the peninsula and head out to Playa Taroa – often touted as Colombia's most beautiful beach – where sand dunes empty of visitors slide straight into the glistening sea.

Best for party people

Few places in South America love to party as much as Cali , Colombia's buzzing capital of salsa. The city's addiction to rhythm is infectious, and a visit to Cali will see you glued to the dance floor until dawn. Polish your moves at one of the many dance schools before hitting the dance floor with the locals in Zaperoco , a standout salsa club.

Planning tip: For the most iconic – and explosive – introduction to Cali's obsession with salsa, get your hands on a ticket to Delirio , a salsa and cabaret showcase of epic proportions. It takes place on the final Friday of every month.

Best for museums and culture

Rainy and cold thanks to its lofty perch in the Andes Mountains, Bogotá might feel like a mere jumping-off point for Colombia's more temperate destinations. Yet those who give it a chance will find the capital city a place with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a rich array of museums.

Gourmet dining rubs shoulders with rowdy nightlife in the city's increasingly trendy neighborhoods of Zona Rosa and Chapinero. But for a more sedate and educational visit, spend a day marveling at the tremendous riches on display in the Museo de Oro , one of the continent's finest collections of pre-Hispanic metallurgy. Another highlight is the Museo Botero , which comprises a significant collection of modern and Impressionist art, including 123 pieces by Botero himself.

10. Providencia

Best for an island escape

Situated some 1240km (770 miles) north of Colombia in the balmy waters of the Caribbean Sea, the idyllic island of Providencia is one of the country's most beautiful places to visit. Picture-perfect, golden-sand beaches – often practically devoid of visitors – and a laid-back atmosphere are all part of the appeal of this remote and sun-kissed patch of paradise.

Divers can splash into crystal clear waters alongside huge stingrays, turtles and reef sharks along a 32km (20-mile) stretch of the world's third-largest barrier reef. If you prefer to keep your head above water, blond sands, beachside restaurants and 25ºC (77ºF) water temperatures will more than cater to your needs.

11. Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena

Best for natural spectacles

Due south of Bogotá, Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena is one of the most incredible places to visit in Colombia. Just a short drive from the town of La Macarena, Caño Cristales is a river that runs vivid pink. Dubbed the "liquid rainbow," this remarkable stretch of water gains its rhubarb hue from the riverweed that grows here between July and October. Pack a bathing suit – you can swim in designated areas of the river. 

Planning tip: Caño Cristales only became accessible to visitors in 2010 as it lay in formerly FARC-occupied territory, but it has become a victim of its own loveliness. Visitor numbers are now capped at 200 per day, and you'll need to book your ticket with a local tour operator in advance.

12. San Gil

Best for thrill-seekers

Adrenaline junkies should look no further than Colombia's capital of adventure, San Gil . Water sports are one of the main draws here, with white-water rafting or hydrospeed tours buffeting you through scenic canyons along Class I to Class V rapids.

If you're keen to get off the ground, abseiling excursions down gushing waterfalls, paragliding over rugged mountain peaks and bungee jumping will get adrenaline levels soaring. Caving, mountain biking and canyoning are more popular activities. 

13. Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín

Best for lost kingdom vibes

In the far southwestern department of Huila lies Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín . This remarkable place comprises a network of ceremonial sites and burial grounds dotted with fantastical stone statues whose semi-human faces grin through fanged mouths with dizzyingly wide eyes. While their purpose remains largely a mystery to archaeologists, many believe the area to have been a place of pilgrimage and ancestor worship built more than 2000 years ago.

Planning tip: The archaeological park sits 2.5km (1.6 miles) from the town of San Agustín; colectivos (shared vans) run out to the park gates. Pick up a local guide at the entrance to learn more as you explore the site.

This article was first published Feb 25, 2022 and updated Feb 11, 2024.

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25 Best Places to Visit in South America 2023

TravelRaval » Blog » 25 Best Places to Visit in South America 2023

A ndy peaks, Amazon rainforest, Pampas glaciers, Aztec ruins, white-sand beaches, and wild nightlife—the marvels of South America set the backdrop for unforgettable adventures. You may spend the day experiencing a wildlife safari on one of the numerous igarapés in the Amazon, stroll past ancient Inca temples, and ponder the power of Iguazu Falls, these are the best places to visit in South America. 

And when you think you’ve seen it all, head to Tierra del Fuego for stunning scenery, the Galápagos for up-close encounters with remarkable wildlife, and the Gran Sabana for a view that looks like it belongs in the Mesozoic age.

The diversity of South America goes beyond its natural surroundings. Former colonial villages can be found where cobblestone streets wind through churches and plazas that haven’t changed much since the 18th century. 

At native marketplaces, you may bargain over vibrant tapestries, eat with tribals, and dance to the thumping beats of the Afro-Brazilian drum line. 

It’s simple to get a firsthand experience of South America’s incredible range of both contemporary and historical cultures by simply traveling there.

South America is home to a stunning variety of natural beauties, from the snow-capped Andes to the Amazon’s rippling rivers. 

This continent is home to lush rainforests, massive volcanoes, red-rock canyons, and glaciers that are ice-blue in color. You can travel to the coast for an exquisite escape among palm-fringed white sand beaches and picturesque tropical islands. There aren’t many other areas on earth that have as many different types of landscapes.

To aid in future travel, we have compiled a list of the best places to visit in South America. 

1. Marvel at the Natural Wonder of Iguazu Falls

2. experience culture in santiago, chile , 3. visit one of the best cities in south america – buenos aires, 4. the great blue hole in belize is the most visited atoll on the planet, 5. the salar de uyuni in bolivia is the largest salt flat in the world, 6. gaze at the milkyway over lake titicaca, peru, 7. machu picchu is one of the seven wonders of the world , 8. the inca trail in peru is something not to miss, 9. cartagena lets you teleport to the 16th century, 10. christ the redeemer in brazil is something not to miss, 11. take a boat ride into the planet’s unique ecosystem – the amazon rainforests, 12. solve the mystic behind chile’s hidden gem – the moai statue, 13. the galapagos in ecuador is an archipelago of active volcanoes, 14. swing at the edge of the world in banos, ecuador, 15. marvel at the tallest waterfall in the world – the angel falls, venezuela, 16. enjoy trekking at torres del paine, chile, 17. it is the atacama desert, chile that teleports you to the moon’s surface, 18. peru’s cusco is famous for its century-old architectural treasures, 19. lost in the elegant charm of the largest city on this continent – são paulo, brazil, 20. soak up the vibes of eternal springs at medellin, columbia, 21. the perito moreno glacier, argentina, 22. vacay at the southern tip of baja peninsula – the cabo san lucas, mexico, 23. explore the vibrant and rich cultural escape in montevideo, uruguay, 24. the resort destination of punta cana is strictly meant for laid-back travelers, 25. it is the wildlife galore at manuel antonio national park, costa rica.

Along Argentina’s border with Brazil, the breathtaking Iguazu Falls are located.  These enormous waterfalls, which are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are unquestionably one of the best places to travel in South America .

Thanks to a network of easily accessible walkways and viewing platforms created to provide the greatest views, including some near the bottom of the falls. At the Devil’s Throat, visitors can get pretty close to these thundering falls.

The falls is nestled inside Iguazu national park, which is partially located on the Argentinian and Brazilian side.  The entrance of the park collides with a train station with departures every 30 minutes to the Garganta del Diablo and the Cataratas train station.It is where the waterfall treks start.

Santiago serves as Chile’s cultural and entertainment hub despite being the nation’s commercial and financial hub. As a result, there are countless enjoyable things to do there, such as visiting the best museums and galleries, as well as top-notch places to shop, dine, and vacation. It is also one of the cheap places to visit in South America.

Most tourists start their Chilean vacations in Santiago, which is also the nation’s primary transit center, before moving on to the Andes or other regions that are known for their exceptional natural beauty.  But the savviest tourists will make the most of Chile’s itinerary by discovering Santiago first.

Taking the aerial tramway to San Cristóbal Hill for its breathtaking vistas is a primary highlight of any trip to Santiago. A 22-meter-tall monument of the Blessed Virgin Mary, an observatory, and an amphitheater are a few of the remarkable sights that are worth exploring.

Don’t forget to spend some time in the gigantic urban park known as Santiago Metropolitan Park.   

Buenos Aires , one of the most beautiful and largest cities in South America, is frequently the first impression that most visitors will receive of Argentina before continuing on to well-known tourist locations like Patagonia.

The wise ones, however, will stay longer and explore the numerous lovely art museums situated in the magnificent old colonial structures dispersed across the city’s districts.

Visit La Boca, the most vibrant district in Buenos Aires, which is also home to the eccentric Caminito Street Museum. La Boca is known for its brilliantly colorful homes, quirky statues, cafés, nightlife, and street ballet dancers. As per Planetware, this is one of the top places to visit in South America.

Lighthouse Reef Atoll, the most remote of Belize’s three atolls, is a diver and nature enthusiast’s paradise. With sparkling white sand beaches, coconut trees, and intriguing reef patterns, six cays encircle a blue lagoon.

The well-known Great Blue Hole , a Natural Monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best vacation spots in South America. When you dive into the turquoise crater, you will experience strange lime mossy rocks sticking out of the cliff sides and, if you’re lucky, you can spot reef sharks.

While divers enjoy the superb wall dives and a wealth of marine life nearby, you can also tour Half Moon Caye’s lighthouse and unwind on its lovely beaches.

With a height of 3653 meters, it is the largest salt flat in the world that covers an incredible 12,000 square kilometers. It was once a portion of Lago Minchin, a prehistoric salt lake that once spanned the majority of southwest Bolivia. 

When it dried up, Salar de Uyuni and a few periodic ponds were among the salt pans it left behind. This huge salt desert’s wild beauty makes it one of South America’s most mesmerizing sights.

This is an unforgettable Bolivia scenery, from weird islands in a sea of glaringly brilliant salt to beautifully colored mineral lakes in the lap of Andean mountains. And, it is one of the top South America attractions. 

In the Andes Mountains, on the boundary between Bolivia and Peru, is Lake Titicaca. One of South America’s most spectacular locations to view the Milky Way is Lake Titicaca, which is thought to be the birthplace of the Aztecs. You will be under the lap of one of the darkest sky reserves in this isolated region of Peru. 

So make sure to leave the city and capture the Milky Way in total darkness. A once-in-a-lifetime chance exists here and is a must-see places in South America!

The main objective of many visitors to Peru is to see the lost Mayan city of Machu Picchu.

The spectacular Inca City of Machu Picchu is perched high on a ridge, 300 meters above the Urubamba River, and is one of the most spectacular backdrops for a deserted city anywhere in the world. The breathtaking backdrop of steep, luxuriant, and frequently covered mountains is almost as magnificent as the ruins themselves.

Trains depart for Aguas Calientes from Cusco, Ollantaytambo, or Urubamba.

It is a 20-minute ride through a treacherous twisty road. It is possible to walk up this road to the site, although it is not advised because of the distance and steep climb. Machu Picchu is one of the top tourist attractions in South America. 

Wondering where to go in South America for hiking? Many people consider the famous Inca Trail, a four-day hike that leads to Machu Picchu, as the high point of their trip to Peru. The difficulty of this picturesque trail is frequently higher than what most people anticipate, but the rewards are far greater.

The Inca Trail has several potential hiking paths but the standard four-day journey starts at mile 82 of the Cusco-Aguas Calientes rail line. From here, the walk continues through breathtaking scenery and more than 30 Inca structures. 

The second day of the trip, which includes two high passes and an elevation rise of 1,200 meters, is the most challenging part of the trail.

There are campgrounds scattered throughout the trek, including one at Machu Picchu’s base.

Cartagena , a former colonial capital, is one of South America’s most picturesque tourist destinations. Due to the city’s protection as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you may learn a lot about South American colonization. The old town was established in the 16th century and is situated on the Caribbean shore. You may still roam around the colonial structures, colorful houses, and cobblestone streets. This is the place to go if you want to experience time travel.

Getsemani, a more relaxed neighborhood is located beyond the historic downtown. You can take refuge at Bocagrande, a more recent area of the city where premium hotels and condos compete for prime coastal real estate.  

Islands and beaches, which make for great day outings and retreats, are also only a half-hour by boat away and are one of the must-see places in South America.

Christ the Redeemer , a massive Art Deco statue of Christ that stands 28 meters tall and has arms outstretched as if to embrace all of humanity. The marvelous side of this attraction is it looks over Rio de Janeiro and the bay from the peak of Corcovado.

The statue is surrounded by a large plaza at the summit of the 709-meter peak, which is a part of the Tijuca National Park. A rack train ascends to the peak over 3.5 kilometers.

Within the eight-meter base is a chapel that is frequently used for weddings. Despite being one of the top places to visit in South America, the statue is frequently confused with the older statue that marks the border between Chile and Argentina.

The dark waters of the Rio Negro and the light, muddy waters of the Rio Solimes intersect the southeast of Manaus. Both rivers flow side by side for about 6 kilometers before combining to form the Amazon. 

This location, known as Encontro das Águas, or the meeting of the waters, is reachable by boat from Manaus.

Join the boat excursions that take you deep into the jungles. Experience the vast network of rivers, channels, and lakes that the three rivers have created. 

The Anavilhanas Islands, an archipelago in the Rio Negro alongside lakes, streams, and flooded woods, provide such a complete representation of the Amazonian biodiversity.

The lake is completely covered in enormous water lilies that are unique to the Amazon region. Amazon is one of the best places to go in South America.

A Chilean island in the southern Pacific Ocean is well-known for its numerous enormous statues, or Moais. There are 1000s of monolithic statues located all across the island famously known as Easter Island . They were built by the Rapa Nui people, who are supposed to have lived there starting in the 12th century.

Some are on stone platforms, some are upright, some are partially overturned, and several are still in the cave where they were made. Each carving, which ranges in size from a meter to 20 meters, is distinct and is considered to represent an ancestor.

Along with this aspect of Polynesian culture, the island’s beaches provide visitors with fantastic chances for snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. 

Chile is also one of the cool places in South America when it comes to beaches and nightlife. 

The Galápagos Islands have drawn tourists from all over the world since their “discovery” in the 16th century. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is named for the giant turtles that inhabit the islands. It is home to a rare ecology that primarily developed without outside interference. 

Therefore, a trip to this undeveloped area presents a rare chance to see wildlife. Here, you can see a variety of rare wildlife on land and in the nearby waters.

The development of the islands is still taking place, and the Galápagos Islands continue to be one of the world’s most active volcanic zones. 

The majority of the 42 islets, 6 smaller islands, and 13 larger islands constitute the Galápagos. It was designated as a National Park and was designated as a component of the national park in 1952.

Unsurprisingly, only guided tours are allowed to view this delicate ecology. However, there are a few places where tourists can travel on their own, including several prominent scuba diving spots.

In central Ecuador, the small town of Banos de Agua Santa is a well-liked tourist destination because of its lovely surroundings and numerous hot springs. 

Banos, which is tucked away in dense, jungle-like forests at the western edge of the Amazon basin, provides a variety of outdoor activities, such as trekking and mountain climbing.

However, its numerous waterfalls and mineral-rich hot springs are the main attractions. You can also have access to some of the beautiful waterfalls that offer incredible views and deep pools.

Whitewater rafting and kayaking are among popular adventure activities in this region. Visit historic sites like the Virgen de Agua Santa chapel with its renowned Mary statue for more peaceful activities.

Ecuador is also one of the best countries to visit in South America due to being the hub of some of the best vacation spots on the planet. 

Angel Falls is located in the middle of the nation, where massive monolithic tabletop mountains rise from the surrounding countryside. It is the tallest waterfall in the world, falling 979 meters, and one of the best tourist places in South America.

The rainy season, which lasts from May to November, is the finest time to visit the falls since water is abundant. It is that time of the year when the falls don’t fade into a mist before they reach the bottom like they do in the dry season. 

You can access the falls via an observatory aircraft or a three-day boat excursion that starts in the town of Canaima. The boat ride is, by all means, an adventurous excursion; it also involves a hike through the jungle to the base of the falls and only moderate lodging along the way.

Put on your bulky pack and travel through roaring plains and twisty woodlands to see these holiest of holies granite mountain peaks.  

This breathtakingly gorgeous region is located in southern Patagonia, more than 100 kilometers north of the city of Puerto Natales. It includes mountains, glaciers, and numerous lakes and rivers.

The Cordillera del Paine, which symbolizes the change from the plains of Patagonia to the subpolar forests in the north, is the most significant portion of the park. 

The three 2,850-metre-tall granite peaks of the Paine Massif, are perhaps the most prominent of its many wonderful features.

Although Las Torres may be the main draw of the park bearing its name, there is much more to discover in this immense wilderness. 

Explore the serene backside of the ice trek which is the carved surface of the Glacier Grey. You can also kayak along the serene Rio Serrano, or climb Paso John Gardner for breathtaking views of the southern ice field. It is definitely one of the best vacation spots in South America .

This arid, unaccommodating terrain in the Atacama Desert draws many tourists because of its uncanny similarity to the moon’s surface. It is the result of sand and stone erosion that features over multiple centuries. 

Despite its isolation, this unexpectedly gorgeous landscape has supported human life as well as that of various animal and plant species for many years.

Being one of the driest places on earth, one of its most distinctive features is its dry lake beds. They are brilliantly white from salt deposits and frequently produce amazing natural saline boulders. And, is recognized as one of the top tourist attractions in South America .

The Atacama Desert is also known for its numerous catacombs, some of which show evidence of cave paintings made by early humans. It is also where some of the oldest mummies in the world are preserved due to the area’s drought conditions. The Chinchorro mummies, the most well-known of these, are currently on display in the San Miguel de Azapa archaeological museum.

Since Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is like roaming through a museum because history is layered on top of history. Many of the wonderful old colonial architecture bordering the narrow streets were built atop Inca ruins, highlighting the city’s rich heritage.

The Cathedral and La Compania, two equally spectacular buildings, are located on the city’s central square, Plaza de Armas. In the daytime, the square is an excellent area to grab lunch and take a heritage walk. 

Even though Cusco is home to a huge number of interesting structures and museums. One of the city’s top sights is the Cathedral of Santo Domingo which is built atop the remains of the Inca city of Coricancha. It must be on your bucket list as this is one of the best place in South America to visit for its heritage and ancient architecture. 

São Paulo , the biggest city in South America, is bordered by rivers that branch out into the interior and is positioned on the Piratininga plateau. Sao Paulo became the entry point to Brazil’s wilderness. It was the principal route of the bandit explorers who took trips into this area from the city. 

So Paulo has always been home to immigrants from all over the world, and you can still witness the legacy of Portuguese, Spanish, German, African, Jewish, Arab, and Japanese citizens in the city’s life and culture today. For instance, there are entire museums devoted to the contributions of Africans in Brazil and Japanese immigration.

The city’s vastness is arguably the hardest aspect to fathom. From the 46-story observation deck on Avenida Ipiranga, you may get a sense of how far it extends. Since many of So Paulo’s tourist attractions are dispersed, using the Metro will be a convenient way to get from one to the other. Undoubtedly, Sao Paulo is worth your time and the best place to visit in South America. 

Despite the fact that Bogotá is the country’s capital, tourists prefer the smaller, more accessible city of Medellin. Early in the 1990s, Medellin was named the most dangerous city in the world. A decade later, it is now known for something quite different: entrepreneurship and innovation. Planetware recognized this as one of the safest places to visit in South America . 

A fantastic day of exploring Medellin might begin at Botero Plaza in the Old Quarter, where you’ll find a collection of 23 stunning sculptures offered by the well-known Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The impressive Rafael Uribe Palace of Culture and the Antioquia Museum are both close to the square. Then, take Comuna 13’s modern escalator system into the hills above the city to discover this area’s vibrant residences and spectacular street murals.

The little hamlet of El Calafate serves as the primary entry point for travelers traveling to the Los Glaciares National Park , which is located in Patagonia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The majority of visitors embark on excursions from this location to view the park’s well-known glaciers, most notably the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier. A vast 30-kilometer-long ice formation and the third-largest freshwater reserve in the world, and is one of the #1 tourist attractions in South America. 

Another significant aspect of the is a significant aspect of Los Glaciares National Park is the 3,359-metre-tall Monte Fitz Roy. A breathtakingly gorgeous mountain that spans the border with Chile is reputedly more difficult to climb than Everest.

One of Mexico’s most popular beach destinations is Los Cabos a 30-kilometer stretch of pristine beaches, also known as the Los Cabos Corridor . It stretches from the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo and is famous for its clear waters, diving, snorkeling, and fishing. It is also one of the best places to vacation in South America . 

There are now many resorts from opulent spas to golf-focused resorts with some of the top courses in North America. However, Los Cabos tends to draw tourists with large vacation budgets.

El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, a huge archway carved out of the coastline where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific, is one of the most well-preferred destinations for its coral reefs and pristine beaches. 

Read more here about the top things to do in Cabo San Lucas .

The Neoclassical and Colonial styles of architecture, as well as African and Modern European influences, are all mixed together in Uruguay’s capital city. 

A wonderful example of the style and ambiance you’ll encounter when exploring the city streets is the Legislative Palace, Palacio Salvo, and the Tango Museum.

The Citadel Gate and the lush Plaza Independencia square are two of Ciudad Vieja’s many notable attractions. Ciudad Vieja is the city’s oldest district and is now a lovely neighborhood.

The greatest place to sample world-class cuisine in Montevideo is at the Port Market which is one of the top South America attractions for its culinary scene.

The sizable National Museum of Visual Arts and the Museo Torres Garcia, honors the famed Uruguayan avant-garde sculptor, painter, and writer, are excellent examples of the city’s rich cultural past.

Punta Cana is located where an unending length of gorgeous white sand beach meets the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. This is the finest area to visit in the Dominican Republic if you’re searching for lavish all-inclusive resorts, a romantic getaway, or family-friendly lodging with an endless variety of beach adventures.

The most impressive beach in Punta Cana is Bavaro Beach, where you may wade into the water or spend all day strolling along the sand. The beach is lined with resorts that provide quick access to all the activities. 

Boats, parasailers, and tour boats are everyday life in this part of the world.  Swimming is safe in areas that have been fenced off. A few restaurants and shops are located inland from the beach, most of which are chic and eclectic—especially by Dominican Republic standards. And, is one of the great vacation spots in South America. 

One of Costa Rica’s best places to see wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park , which has the added benefit of having lovely beaches with smooth white sand.

Howler monkeys, orangutans, lemurs, white-nosed coatimundis, and squirrel monkeys are a few of the frequently seen animals in the park. In addition, look out for sparkling butterflies and a variety of colorful birds flying around. Although you can explore the trails on your own, you can opt for a guided tour for a richer experience. 

Stroll at the picturesque beachfront beach, where canopies and recliners line the sand. It is where the surfers from the globe take advantage of the often calm waves. It is one of the best places in South America for surfers and divers. 

The continent of South America is full of lavish sights to behold. It’s not exactly like Europe or Southeast Asia, where you have the option of traveling from one western-style city to another. It’s a region made up of mostly undeveloped wilderness, which can be unpredictable and hard to navigate. But it’s precisely that which makes this continent so appealing to so many visitors—especially those on a budget. Plus, no visa is required. If you’re looking for an exotic but affordable vacation experience, South America is the place for you!

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13 Best Cities In South America To Visit

There are so many incredible places in South America to explore! From the ancient sites of Peru , the gorgeous landscapes of Bolivia to the incredible hikes , too. Though these are all incredible, you certainly shouldn’t forget the best cities in South America to visit. Especially as they’re all so diverse and full of history. 

From the rich cultures, ancient history, epic festivals, there’s a shed load of cities that should be on your travel-radar whilst visiting South America. Though there are too many to visit in one trip (or one year for that matter), I hope I can introduce some of the best cities in South America that you will love.

Truth be told, before planning our first visit to South America, I had grand plans of seeing the whole continent in 21-days. Yep, it’s as stupid and impossible as it sounds. Thankfully, we decided on sticking to one country, Peru , and experienced as much as we could in that time. 

Obviously, don’t make the same mistake in planning as I did, especially when travelling across countries. This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the best cities in South America that you can tag onto any trip.

Take a look at the best cities in South America to visit. Have the best time. 

1.) Rio De Janerio, Brazil  

Rio De Janerio is easily one of the best cities in South America to visit (and probably one of the most famous). 

It’s the kind of city that’s great during festival time, but, there’s so much more to the city than just vibrant festivals. 

Once here, make sure to visit Sugar Loaf Mountain for the views and see the sunset from Christ The Redeemer. We visited via the cog train (which is the safest way). Some people can hike, but these aren’t always the safest in Rio as you sometimes get armed gangs that roam the area. 

Also, make sure to chill out at Copacabana Beach and visit some of the cool bars and restaurants at the Jockey Club, too.

Finally, make sure to see the stunning Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading. It’s totally stunning and so incredible to see.

Oh yeah, and if you’re looking for a place to stay, we checked into the Emiliano Rio and totally loved it. 

Read more: Best things to do in Rio De Janeiro

2.) Cusco, Peru 

Perched within the Andes Mountains, Cusco is easily one of the best cities in South America to visit. 

Now, for most people, it will their first stop before heading further to Machu Picchu (and climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain ). Or, sometimes it’s used as a ‘base’ to start a journey towards Lake Titicaca and the Uros Floating islands , via the luxury trains . 

That being said, Cusco is a place to see in its own right, especially with the local markets (like, San Pedro) and the Inca sites that are dotted all around the outskirts of the city. 

Read more: Best things to do in Peru

3.) Santiago, Chile

Santiago is one of the best cities in South America where skyscrapers and mountains almost intertwine.

For art stretching from the pre-Colombian era through contemporary, head to Forest Park and to see the most beautiful architecture in the city. Oh, and don’t forget to wander around Plaza de Armas.

There are two major Neoclassical buildings are located here: the Royal Court Palace, which houses Chile’s National History Museum, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

Read more: Best things to do in Santiago

4.) Ushuaia, Argentina 

Famous as being the most southernly city in all the world, Ushuaia is one of the best cities in South America to visit if you love nature. 

You see, lots of tours of Antarctica actually depart from  Ushuaia as it’s about 600-miles away. This makes it a perfect city to explore if you’re planning a trip to Antarctica and fancy a little city break, too.

Once here, make sure to spend some time exploring the nearby Tierra del Fuego. It’s a totally stunning national park and really easy to visit when in the region. Afterwards, take some time to explore the Maritime Museum and head over to Isla Martillo, too.

You might even spot some penguins! 

5.) Buenos Aires, Argentina

Probably known as the shopping capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires is one of the best cities in South America to visit if you love a more cosmopolitan city. 

Once here, you’ll get to experience the totally vibrant nightlife and the history of the region that’s so perfect to explore. 

Be sure to stop at the oldest cafe in town, a Parisian place called Cafe Tortoni. Teatro Colon, a piece of the city since 1908.

Oh, and don’t forget the colourful neighbourhoods of La Boca (and Caminito, too), where you’re sure to find plenty of Italian influences due to the many early settlers from Genoa.

Read more: Best things to do in Buenos Aires

6.) Montevideo, Uruguay

Relatively near to Buenos Aires is the capital city of Uruguay. Located along the Atlantic Coast, this city is known for its down-to-earth downtown area, as well as its upscale beach area, Pocitos that is great on a sunny day. 

Once here, head towards Plaza Independencia, where the historic old town and the downtown areas divide; it’s totally amazing. Plus, amidst the art deco and neoclassical buildings you’ll find in the city, look for the Palacio Salvo and the Castillo Pittamiglio.

Honestly, these alone make it one of the best cities in South America to visit.

7.) San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

For me, I always recommend San Pedro de Atacama if you like your city life a tad more rustic!

Located in northeast Chile, in the arid Andes Mountains, it’s is nestled within the most dramatic landscapes filled with deserts, salt flats, geysers, hot springs, and volcanoes. It’s like another world.

Once here, make sure to explore Valle de la Luna, located in Los Flamencos National Reserve, too. It’s home to some epic geological formations, massive sand dunes, and pink-streaked mountains.

Honestly, it can feel like you’ve visited Mars at times!

8.) Sao Paulo, Brazil

Sao Paulo, the largest and one of the best cities in South America, is best enjoyed like a local. Well, for me at least. 

The sheer diversity of the art (and foodie haunts) can be overwhelming, so find some cool spots to visit before your trip. This stops you getting too overwhelmed when you visit a big city like Sao Paulo and makes sure you use your time wisely. 

For food, the Jardins district is a haven for little restaurants and art-house cinemas (another local favourite). 

Oh, also, the nightlife here is massive, with over 15,000 bars to get a tipple

Plus, the diversity of culture found here is totally astonishing, with over one million people of German descent residing here, as well as the largest Japanese and Italian populations outside of their native countries, Sao Paulo has become so eclectic. 

9.) Paramaribo, Suriname

Quite a few people seem to have never even heard of Suriname (let alone start to figure out where it is). That being said, it’s one of the best cities in South America that’s quite different from the likes of Rio or Santiago.

For starters, Paramaribo is the country’s capital city, and oddly enough, is really nothing like the rest of South America. The national language of Suriname is Dutch, for starters (due to Dutch colonisation of the area in the 16th century). Plus, there’s also a mix of Creole, international and indigenous cultures here, making it a true melting pot.

The entire downtown area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, too. The buildings here, like; the Presidential Palace, Fort Zeelandia, and St. Peter and Paul Basilica all date back from the 1600s-1800s. This makes it one of the best cities in South America to visit if you love history. 

Plus, Paramaribo is also a great starting point for specialist tours of the rainforests of Suriname, too. Just make sure to organise your tours with a certified and expert guide. 

10.) Lima, Peru

Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, Peru’s capital city is one of the best cities in South America to visit. That being said, it seems like most people either love it or hate it. Whatever you think, it’s well worth giving it a visit (even for a few days) to make up your mind. 

Located between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Coast, you’ll find a huge amount of colonial Spanish buildings as well as ancient Incan archaeological sites that aren’t too far away.

Also, for some experimental Peruvian cuisine, head to the Nanke (which serves organic Peruvian fusion dishes).

Architecture buffs should definitely head over to the historic centre, which has the most picturesque architecture. Here, you’ll get to see the Palace and the Basilica de San Francisco which are stunning. 

Read more: Best hikes in Peru  

11.) El Calafate, Argentina

Known as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, El Calafate has understandably grown in popularity in recent years. This means it’s one of the best cities in South America to visit if you want to partner in a visit to the nature spots of Patagonia, too.

Located on the edge of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the city is home to the Perito Moreno Glacier and a major reason to head this way in South America.

Hiking and sightseeing are (also understandably) popular activities here and the growing downtown area of El Calafate is definitely worth a visit when you’re in town. Oh, and don’t forget the Glaciarium Patagonian Ice Museum, too. It’s perfect if you’re looking to learn more about the landscapes, here.

12.) Bogota, Colombia

Now, over the years, Bogota has certainly had a reputation for narcotics and drug lords, but the city is so much more than this and one of the best cities in South America to visit.

Food lovers (like myself) will appreciate the fantastic wine and many food festivals that Bogota is known for. Considered the “Heart of the Andes”, visitors will also appreciate the mountains that act as a background to the stunning buildings located around Bogota.

La Candelaria is the best place to visit in the city for these architectural wonders, with its cobblestone streets and colonial-era structures. For upscale shopping and nightlife, the city’s Zona Rosa neighbourhood is where you want to be at.

Just make sure to always follow local advice on where to go (and not) whilst you’re here. The city can move from being safe to quite unsafe at the cross of a street. 

Read more: Best things to do in Colombia

13.) La Paz, Bolivia

Now, you might not know this but La Paz is the very highest administrative capital in the whole world! This makes it a total highlight (see what I did there?) to see.

Located high in the Andes Mountains, you can take in gorgeous views of the city that literally clings to and sprawls down the canyon that’s incredible to explore.

If it’s the views you’re after, head on the aerial cable car system, Mi Teleferico. Though, dress warmly, and be prepared to spend some time acclimating to the high elevations. It can be tough when you breathe, especially if you’re not used to higher-altitude cities.

That being said, it’s still one of the best cities in South America you should definitely visit when in Bolivia .

Read more: Best places to see in Bolivia

11 Best Things To Do In Bolivia

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The 5 Best Resorts in South America in 2022

The best resorts in South America, according to Travel + Leisure readers, put the continent’s stunning archaeological sites and world-class wine regions at guests’ fingertips.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite resorts in Southeast Asia.

When it comes to the best resorts in South America, it's tough to beat those found in Peru's Sacred Valley, according to Travel + Leisure readers. The region's spectacular landscapes, plus its proximity to Machu Picchu, helped earn it four out of 10 spots last year and two out of five this year. Argentina's wine country also enticed travelers, as did Brazil's Foz do Iguaçu, the gateway to the eponymous falls.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city hotel, resort, or safari lodge based on their locations and amenities.

At No. 4 is Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, the only hotel situated at the entrance to Machu Picchu. Its prime location gives guests the best chance of beating the crowds in the Lost City. One voter extolled its "incomparable location," as well as its "excellent service," while another mentioned that the experience was "beyond expectations."

The other Sacred Valley resort to make the list, in the No. 5 spot, is Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, which is its own little village hidden away in a cloud forest. Guests love its jungle surroundings (one reader mentioned the "beautiful trees, shrubs, flowers, and birds"), and the food is also a highlight. "The meals were very good, and the servers were wonderful," wrote one fan. Another shared: "The staff is perfect as is the food."

But it was properties in Mendoza — the heart of Argentinean wine country — that took the top two spots among the best resorts in South America. Keep reading to find out more.

1. Cavas Wine Lodge, Mendoza, Argentina

At the base of the Andes, this Relais & Châteaux property connects guests with the majestic natural surroundings and celebrates the incredible vintages coming out of the Mendoza region, home to more than 900 wineries. Between tastings, guests enjoy horseback riding, biking, hiking, whitewater rafting, and meals at the on-site restaurant, which has a daily-changing dinner menu that highlights the bounty of Mendoza. At the end of the day, visitors retire to elegant rooms with private plunge pools, soaking tubs, and fireplaces that make the most of indoor-outdoor living.

Score: 96.80

Book on Tripadvisor

2. The Vines Resort & Spa, Mendoza, Argentina

Score: 95.50

3. Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguaçu Falls, Brazil

Score: 95.41

4. Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu, Peru

Score: 91.58

5. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Machu Picchu, Peru

Score: 89.50

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The 19 Best Beaches in South America

 Stephanie De Melo / TripSavvy

South America has a long and interesting coastline that includes stretches on the Caribbean, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans, and when it comes to beaches there are some excellent options to be found across the continent.

Some countries are better known than others for their beaches, with Brazil and Colombia particularly noted for their fabulous beach destinations, while the landlocked countries of Bolivia and Paraguay have no ocean beaches at all.

Brazil 's extensive Atlantic coastline offers a great variety in terms of the beaches. There are also oceanfront stretches in cities like Rio and Florianopolis that have thriving social scenes as well as relaxing sun-tanning spots. The northern coast of  Peru  is another under-the-radar destination, as most travelers tend to stay around  Lima , visiting the narrow beach at the bottom of the Miraflores cliffs. Meanwhile,  Venezuela  has many beautiful beaches facing the Caribbean Ocean, especially on the islands off the north coast.

Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha (Brazil)

João Vianna / Getty Images

Located on an archipelago off the northeast coast of Brazil, this beach is a stunning but short stretch of sand with placid waters. It can only be reached by boat or by climbing down the steep rocky slopes on each end, so it isn't particularly good for younger children or people with limited mobility. The clear waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling and because this gorgeous beach is so difficult to get to, you won't have to fight other visitors for space on the sand.

Copacabana, Rio de Janiero (Brazil)

Lepretre Pierre / Getty Images

Copacabana is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in South America. With a long strip of bars and nightclubs just off the beach, Copacabana is a beautiful stretch of golden sand that is often crammed with people making the most of their free time. You will mainly find adults and older teenagers on the beach. The cold water means this isn't an ideal swimming location, but the beach football and the constant activity during the day make it a great beach for people watching.

Jericoacoara, Ceara (Brazil)

Brasil2 / Getty Images

This remote beach in the northeast of Brazil is one that requires a fairly long journey including four hours of off-roading through dunes and beaches. But the reward for all that effort is stunning surroundings and sunsets. The sea isn't ideal for swimming, but several lagoons provide better conditions. There is also a range of good spots for surfing and windsurfing. The many dunes make for entertaining beach walks while dramatic rock formations add even more beauty.

Vichayito (Peru)

Víctor Augusto Mendívil/Getty Images

Just a short distance from the waterfront towns of Los Organos and Mancora, this lovely beach is often quiet and peaceful and offers some nice shallow water to paddle in for younger children. A little further out, the waves pick up making for fine surfing and windsurfing surroundings, while the charming village offers some nice rustic accommodation.

Punta Sal ​(Peru)

gustavo ramirez/Getty Images 

Backing onto hillsides thick with green jungle, this lovely village on the northern coast is ideal for a Peruvian beach getaway. One half of the curved beach is protected from larger waves, making it a calm environment for swimming. The northern half of the 4-mile beach is a little more exposed, but will often be a little quieter.

Cabo Blanco ​(Peru)

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This beach is split into two by a fishing pier that stretches out into the water, which indicates one of the biggest attractions of visiting Cabo Blanco — the excellent fishing which once drew celebrities such as Ernest Hemingway and Marilyn Monroe. Today, it is a beautiful stretch of sand where you can relax, and although the waves are too big for weak swimmers, they are great if you are looking to hang ten.

La Caleta, Capurgana (Colombia)

Near the border with Panama and just a short boat ride from Cartagena, the beach in Capurgana may be small but it is also one of the most beautiful on the continent. A narrow strip of golden sand with just a small number of hotels, this beach is charming with gentle waters that make it good for swimming, while there is also excellent scuba diving nearby.

Playa El Almejal (Colombia)

Located on the edge of a nature preserve, this famous beach is great if you are looking for a quiet place to relax, and the waves here are best for surfing rather than for swimming. Aside from the 1.2 miles of beautiful beach, wildlife spotting draws many visitors. Particularly the turtle conservation project. A variety of eateries and a nearby eco-lodge make it easy to spend a few days enjoying El Almejal.

Playa Blanca (Colombia)

SL_Photography/Getty Images

This beach is on Isla Baru, just a short boat trip from Cartagena. It's a popular day-trip destination so while there can be crowds, there are also plenty of choices in terms of sunbeds and beach bars when you are looking for a drink or a snack. For a quieter, more secluded experience the south end of the beach is the best bet as it's a distance away from where boats drop off visitors.

La Bellaca, Bahia de Caraquez (Ecuador)

Located around 2 miles south of the city center, this beach is very popular among surfers thanks to its great waves. It isn't too rough for swimming either, although a slightly rocky seafloor means you'll need to be careful where you step. You will find a few vendors and stalls near the car parking area just off the beach, but on the whole, this is a quiet beach with plenty of places to spread out.

Montañita (Ecuador)

ampueroleonardo/Getty Images

This small town is one of the most popular beach destinations in Ecuador, boasting great surfing conditions and waves that are tame enough for stronger swimmers. While this is a lovely place to have a beach holiday, it's not a great place for families with young children. Montañita has a reputation as a party town and the party often spills onto the beach.

Canoa (Ecuador)

elisalocci/Getty Images

At 10.6 miles in length, you won't struggle to find a tranquil spot on the beach, though you may have to walk for a while! The swimming conditions here are quite good and the moderate waves means you'll usually only find beginner and novice surfers here, with board rentals available. If you do fancy breaking up the day, a walk up to the cliffs at the northern end of the beach provides a beautiful panoramic view over the coast.

Cayo de Agua, Los Roques (Venezuela)

 PCostaBaldi/Getty Images

Located within the Los Roques National Park, this stunning beach has beautiful white sand and azure waters that are great for swimming, although the tide can be quite strong, while it is also clear enough to make snorkeling a joy too. Reached by boat, this beach is a true Caribbean gem and is well worth the trip if you are visiting the park.

Playa El Agua, Margarita Island ​(Venezuela)

jmsilva/Getty Images

This beach is as close to the stereotype of a Caribbean paradise as you can get, with around 2.5 miles of golden sand lined with palm trees on one side and the sparkling blue water on the other. Despite its beauty, this isn't a beach suitable for swimming, as there are some strong currents, and the lifeguards regularly call people back who are getting in too deep.

Choroní ​(Venezuela)

Cristóbal Alvarado Minic/Getty Images 

This rustic beach is particularly popular with locals as well as the visitors, and has a few umbrellas and deck chairs, as well as having reasonably calm waters that are great for swimming. The beach lies in a bay which backs on to steep mountain slopes covered in greenery, with the palm trees swaying gently in the breeze making for a lovely spot.

Zapallar (Chile)

A curve of golden sand flanked by rocks that stretch out into the ocean, the waters here are quite calm and good for swimming, with plenty of local families often doing the same. The rustic surroundings of the village could easily have been transplanted from Europe, in what is a charming town as well as being a great beach location.

Cifuncho (Chile)

abriendomundo/Getty Images

Just a short drive from the town of Antofagasta, this beach has some dunes that are dwarfed by the high mountains close to the coast. The beach has soft white sands and is quite a low-key place, while the water is pleasant for swimming with small waves, while it also has a charming little town nearby too.

Mar del Plata (Argentina)

Karen Clarke/EyeEm/Getty Images

Argentina's rival to the  beaches of Rio de Janeiro , Mar del Plata has beaches just yards away from the city center, and the waves here are good for those looking for good surfing and body boarding. There are plenty of facilities such as sun loungers and beach sports on those beaches nearest the city center, although at the weekend you may struggle even to find a spot to lay your towel.

Pinamar (Argentina)

Daniel Yanello/EyeEm/Getty Images

Unlike most cities, Pinamar was developed as a planned city, which means that while there are some excellent facilities and accommodation here, the prices can be a little steep as development is limited. The beach itself is golden with some good waves for surfing, although again this isn't a location for those looking for good family-friendly swimming due to the waves and currents.

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United States Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 14, 2024

The United States isn’t a popular destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Most overseas tourists come here for a short vacation, visit one or two cities, and then head home. They usually stick to the big coastal cities or places like Disney.

And it wasn’t until COVID that Americans en-masse bothered to hop in their cars and explore their backyard.

The U.S. is massive country that lacks a lot of tourist infrastructure or good cross-country transportation. Hostels haven’t quite caught on, trains don’t go to many places, and we don’t offer working holiday visas to attract young working backpackers. In short, it’s hard to get around.

However, the United States has a lot to offer: stunning national parks, gorgeous landscapes, incredible and diverse culture, world-class music, and a variety of delicious cuisine that varies from region to region.

I think the U.S. is one of the best destinations in the world to road trip . I’ve done several multi-month road trips across the United States . While the coastal cities are fun, the U.S. really reveals itself in the middle and countryside (it’s much more affordable there too). It’s in the nooks and crannies of America that you get a sense of its quirks.

But even if you aren’t spending months visiting the country in a car, there’s still a lot you can do via train, bus, or plane.

This travel guide to the United States can help you navigate the country, save money, and get off the beaten path.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the United States

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in the united states.

1. Explore New York City

The city that never sleeps is one of the greatest cities in the world. There’s nothing you can’t do or see and you’ll find every language and food from around the world here. From world-class museums and art galleries to innovative theater performances to unique restaurants to the expansive Central Park, you can fill a lifetime of activities here. You can take the ferry to Ellis Island, see the Statue of Liberty, hang with the hipsters in Brooklyn, see a Yankees game, and so, so much more. Check out my detailed guide for everything you need to do .

2. Visit the Grand Canyon

Words can’t describe how epicly beautiful the Grand Canyon is. It’s simply breathtaking. Most people just look out at the canyon from the overlook at the top, but its vast size and beauty are best appreciated with a hike down to the Colorado River so try to do that if you have time (make the time). The canyon itself is 6,000 feet deep, and you can find plenty of hikes to take you further into the canyon that will give you a chance to experience it in more detail. For a shorter hike, Grandview Trail to the first overlook at Coconino Saddle and back is only a couple of miles. If you have a whole day to spend and want to challenge yourself, try the 12.5 miles from Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point. Just be sure to bring plenty of water!

3. Discover Austin

The warm weather, lively honky-tonks, funky house bars on Rainey Street, amazing walking and biking trails, tons of outdoor activities — Austin is great (I lived there for many years). You can always find great live music on 6th Street. On a hot day, Barton Springs pool is the perfect place to cool off, there’s always something to do, the food scene gets better and better, and everyone is very welcoming. It’s one of the best cities in the U.S., boasting a combination of nature, city, and delicious food. Be sure to binge on BBQ while you’re here!

4. Visit Glacier National Park

This is my favorite national park in the country. It’s home to gorgeous snow-topped mountains, a beautiful lake from which to admire said mountains, large glaciers, and hiking trails galore. It is one of the most mind-blowing places I’ve seen on my adventures. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails in the park that provide everyone an opportunity to explore the landscape. Park rangers offer various programs and guided tours are also available. There are spots for fishing and additional trails for biking and horseback riding. (If you plan to visit multiple national parks while traveling throughout the United States, it’s worth it to get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and provides entry to all the national parks for a year.)

5. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast is considered one of the most scenic landscapes in the world, offering sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of beaches, and giant redwoods. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) runs 1,650 miles from San Diego, California to Seattle, Washington taking you from the warm, sunny beaches to the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Highway 1 thorough California is one of the longest historic state highways in the country. The California portion alone route takes 10 hours without stopping but I recommend dedicating at least several days to enjoy all the great stops along the way.

Other Things to See and Do in the United States

NOTE: There’s a lot to do in the United States and you can spend months traveling around the country . I could write an entire book on the places to visit! This is just a list to give you some ideas. Be sure to check out some of my other articles and city specific guides (scroll to the bottom of this guide for links) for more suggestions.

1. Have fun in Memphis

Gritty and industrial, Memphis appears like its best days are behind it. But don’t let the rough exterior fool you — the city is home to some killer food and a vibrant blues music scene. It is a cool city with boisterous and friendly locals. I love the vibe here. There’s Graceland (Elvis’s home) for fans of the King, a big waterfront for walking, and the phenomenal Museum of Civil Rights (it’s huge, so don’t rush it!). The city is going through a big revival right now. To use a cliché, it’s a hidden gem as most people, to their detriment, skip over it.

2. Discover Asheville

Asheville is full of tasty craft beer, great restaurants, and plenty of outdoor loving residents. The beautiful Smoky Mountains are a short drive away, Asheville Botanical Gardens are right near the university, and the gigantic Biltmore estate (the largest privately-owned home in the U.S. and once home to George Vanderbilt) is on the outskirts of the city. (If you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the house is like!) The town has a lot of parks and there are a lot of beautiful biking and hiking trails that you can get to from the center of town.

3. Explore Redwood National Park

Along the Pacific Coast is Redwood National Park, a huge expanse of towering redwood trees filled with picnic areas, places to camp, and miles upon miles of hiking trails. Trails range from easy to strenuous, and there are many loops that head out to nearby beaches. The trees range from 200-240 feet tall. It’s utterly beautiful, awe-inspiring, and humbling in every way. Admission is free, though the three adjoining state parks (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park) each charge $10 USD.

4. Explore Denver

Known as the Mile High City (the city is one mile above sea level), Denver offers a mix of outdoor ruggedness and big-city living. It has a huge craft beer scene, excellent restaurants (including, Sushi Sasa, one of my favorite sushi restaurants), a large international airport with lots of connections, and is close to the mountains. There are a lot of interesting museums, including the Denver Art Museum, Meow Wolf Denver, and the Clifford Still Museum. There’s plenty of art outside of the museums as well and there are walking tours available to show you around, if you prefer that to exploring on your own. It’s clean, lively, and the locals are incredibly friendly.

5. Get off-the-beaten-path in Natchez

I was surprised by Natchez . I didn’t know anything about it when it was recommended as a place to see historic 19th-century homes. These mansions were built by white plantation owners wanting to escape the summer heat and socialize with each other. As cotton became king, the houses became ever larger and more elaborate. Today, the homes are historic monuments you can tour while enjoying a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the beaten path and you’ll need a car to visit but it’s worth the trek.

6. Visit Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil War, allegedly because General Sherman thought it was too pretty to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss-covered oaks, large and inviting parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a wonderful place to experience the slow pace of the South. There are a number of interesting historical sites like the Bonaventure Cemetery and Factors Row. The city is full of small squares and sprawling parks where you can enjoy a stroll or a picnic. And nearby Tybee Island is a draw for many visitors due to its sandy beaches and slow pace of life.

7. Dive into Nashville’s music scene

Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. It’s got a wonderful music scene (duh), a growing cocktail bar culture, and some world-class down-home Southern restaurants. There’s not a lot of “touristy stuff” to do here, but what makes this city one of my favorites are the music, the food, the wildly friendly people, and the positive energy the city seems to exude. When you’re here, plan to spend a few hours at the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into detail about the state’s history (and it’s more exciting than you might think!).

8. Catch some rays in sunny San Diego

I love San Diego. San Diego’s weather is almost always perfect, leading to a permanently happy population that’s friendly and outgoing and that loves the outdoors. From hiking, days at the beach, or running, people here love to get out and enjoy the sun. The downtown Gaslamp area — as well as the famous Pacific Beach — is full of trendy restaurants, bustling bars, and some seriously life-changing taco stalls.

9. Get tipsy in California’s Wine Country

California is home to some of the best wine in the world, and a visit to the Sonoma or Napa Valley shouldn’t be missed. While Sonoma is cheaper than Napa, both these destinations are meant for splashing out. Take a tour, book a cozy vineyard Airbnb, and enjoy a relaxing few days learning about the region’s wines. Tastings usually cost between $15-20 USD. If you go to Sonoma, check out Three Fat Guys winery. They have phenomenal reds.

10. Hike around Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is impressive and beautiful. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, this is a terrific place for hiking and boating in the summer and skiing in the winter. For fun in the sun, be sure to spend some time lounging at Kings Beach. For hikes, check out the Rubicon Trail (16 miles/25.7 kilometers) or the Cascade Falls Trail (1.4 miles/2.2 kilometers). You can’t really go wrong here.

11. Anywhere in Montana

A lot has been written about how stunning Montana is, but words cannot do this state justice. To me, it’s the most beautiful state in the Union, filled with wondrous mountains and hills as far as the eye can see. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and there is a huge craft beer scene here too, with tons of local breweries all around the state. If you want nature, good food, friendly locals, and just quiet, Montana is it!

12. Relax in Cape Cod

I spent a lot of summers on the Cape since I grew up in Boston. You’ll find plenty of small beach towns along the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being the most famous but I also love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). There’s not a lot to “do” but if you’re looking for seafood, beaches, boardwalks, and that perfect family vacation, visit the Cape! Just avoid the weekends when it gets a little too crowded.

13. Explore Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this town was famous during the Old West days (noteworthy enough to be the focus of the eponymous HBO series). Wyatt Earp, Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok, and many other infamous gunslingers all spent time here. Sort of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a very cool place where you can experience a taste of the old frontier days. It’s also conveniently located near the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore so you can use it as a base for exploring the region.

14. Be surprised by Kansas City

I really loved this city, which features some of the world’s best BBQ and a lively downtown core. There’s a detailed and enlightening jazz museum here, as well as the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (that’s the actual name). This is yet another super underrated and under-visited destination.

15. Stay weird in Portland

Portland , Oregon is incredible. Here you’ll find an impressive food truck scene, cool bespoke bars and cocktail lounges, a craft beer scene that’s religion to residents, relaxing parks (including a peaceful Japanese garden), a vibrant art scene, and hiking in the nearby mountains. Portland is just an awesome city, especially in the summer when the weather is perfect and there are festivals and events galore.

16. Hike our national parks

America has 63 national parks as well as countless state and local parks. These parks highlight the best of the American wilderness. Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier, Zion, Byrce, the Smokey Mountains, Rocky Mountain Park, the Badlands — the list goes on. Make sure you visit as many national parks as you can to get a sense of the grand and diverse landscape that is the United States. You can use this government map to find a park near you! If you plan to visit multiple parks, get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and gets you free entry to all the national parks for a year.

17. Admire the architecture in Chicago

One of my favorite cities in the world, Chicago is full of amazing architecture, great parks, delicious and hearty food, and a fun nightlife. One of the best ways to see the city’s unique architecture is on a river cruise. There are multiple operators and prices start around $45. Don’t miss trying deep-dish pizza (it was invented here, along with stuffed-crust pizza) and seeing the iconic “Bean” sculpture in Millennium Park. Additionally, check out the city’s famous pier, aquarium, and waterfront park. The city also hosts one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country.

18. Enjoy Lively New Orleans

This French-influenced city has incredible seafood and Cajun cuisine and even better live music. A visit to New Orleans is a must for any jazz or blues fan. Live music is available seven nights a week. Frenchman Street is one of the best places to go (my favorite venue is the Spotted Cat). There are also tons of amazing walking tours that highlight the city’s unique culture and history (including ghost and voodoo tours). Nature lovers will enjoy wandering through the massive oak trees in City Park where you can also visit the city’s Botanical Gardens, which are open year-round. Admission is $12. Plus, there’s incredible independent bookstores, creole food, art museums, and the simply incredible and informative World War 2 museum. Don’t skip roaming the redone and revitalized Bywater district too. It’s a bit hipster. If you plan on celebrating Mardi Gras in NOLA , book early. Accommodations fill up fast.

19. Get some sun in Hawaii

Closer to Asia than the United States, Hawaii is America’s slice of South Pacific paradise. White sands beaches, clear blue water, tropical jungle, and great surf — Hawaii has it all! Don’t miss the otherworldly landscapes of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, the somber memorial at Pearl Harbor, and the hikes at Diamond Head and the Lanikai Pillbox Trail near Honolulu. There are a ton of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving where you get a chance to see manta rays, sea turtles, and plenty of colorful fish. Waimea Canyon and the Napali coast on the island of Kauai are places you can get up close and personal with the natural landscape. There are helicopter and boat tours or, if you’re up for a challenge, you can hike the iconic Kalalau Trail. Every island has its own vibe so, if you can, visit more than one.

20. Check out Boston

The birthplace of the revolution (and my hometown), no one leaves Boston disappointed. It’s a big city, but its lack of high-rises, as well as its cobblestone streets and brick buildings, give the city a small-town feel. The Freedom Trail, which covers all the main historic stops, is a must because it gives you a look at the city’s historic past. Be sure to lounge in the Boston Common and catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park too (the city is big on sports).

21. Visit the nation’s capital

The country’s capital is home to many of the best museums in the country. And, given the large number of international embassy workers here, it’s unsurprising one of the most international cities in the country. You can find food from anywhere in the world thanks to all the embassies in the city. Plus, there’s a vibrant music and cocktail scene. Don’t miss the National Mall and all its monuments, the Holocaust Museum, and the various Smithsonian Museums (some of the best are the Air and Space Museum, the Museum of the American Indian, the African American Museum, the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Castle, and the American Art Museum). If you visit in the spring, you’ll get to see the cherry blossoms bloom along the Mall.

22. Learn about Mt. Rushmore

Completed in 1941, this historic monument in the Black Hills of South Dakota is a lot smaller than you expect, but it makes a good stop while driving. Originally, the indigenous Lakota Sioux inhabited this area, however, when gold was found in the hills, white settlers forcibly removed them from their homeland. At the Wounded Knee massacre, U.S. forces killed over 250 indigenous women and children. Decades later, Rushmore was built, much to the dismay of the local indigenous population, who consider the land to be sacred. Take a guided tour to learn more about this iconic monument’s complex and tragic history.

23. Be a kid at Disney World

Sure, it’s cheesy . Yes, it’s built for kids. True, it’s not authentic. But despite all that, Disney World is still a fun time and they have a lot of rides for adults too. I recently went back as an adult and there’s a lot to do there: they have some good restaurants, and Disney Springs has a fun nightlife. If you are in Florida, take a stop for a few days. Indulge your inner child. Tickets cost around $110 USD per day and go up from there.

24. Hike the Appalachian Mountains

Stretching the east coast of America, these mountains are almost 500 million years old and offer great hiking, camping, and trekking. For a multi-month adventure, hike the 2,190-mile (3,524-kilometer) Appalachian Trail which covers the entire mountain range and takes 5-7 months to complete. You can also do day hikes or weekend hikes of its various sections if you want a more manageable outdoor getaway.

25. Unwind in Put-In-Bay

One of the coolest, not-so-hidden places in the U.S. is this group of islands in Lake Erie. Widely known to Midwesterners (but unknown to most everyone else), South Bass Island is home to Put-in-Bay, where Midwest hospitality meets Caribbean vibes (you ride around in golf carts and bars have sand as floors). My favorite spot is Mojito Bay, an outdoor tiki bar with sand floors and swings for bar seats that offers up more than 25 different mojitos. These places get very wild on the weekends too.

26. Explore Maine

Tucked away up in the northeast, Maine evokes images of endless shorelines, wild forests, iconic lighthouses, and lots and lots of lobster dinners. It’s often overlooked yet it’s incredibly beautiful and perfect for a short road trip. Don’t miss trying lobster rolls (a regional favorite) and hiking in Acadia National Park. Portland has some great eateries (such as Duckfat and Eventide Oyster Co.) and picturesque historic lighthouses, including Maine’s oldest operating lighthouse, the Portland Head Light, which opened in 1791 when George Washington was president. Additionally, tiny Bangor is home to tons of breweries and Moosehead State Park is an incredible place to go hiking for a few days. And you can’t go wrong stopping in any of the quintessential New England fishing villages up and down the coast. Maine is one of the best states in the union!

27. Take a road trip

The only good way to see this vast and diverse landscape and the small towns that populate it is with a road trip . I highly suggest renting a car and driving across the U.S. It’s an amazing experience. I’ve done several coast-to-coast trips as well as regional trips around New England , California , and the South . It’s the best way to see the country and you can do it for under $50 USD a day.

For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

28. Take a tour

You can find all sorts of amazing walking tours, bike tours, and food tours all around the country. They’re a great way to get an in-depth look at the city you’re in with the help of an expert local guide. Take Walks is my go-to walking tour company when I’m looking for something thorough and insightful (and fun). They can get you behind the scenes and are much more comprehensive than your average free walking tour.

For information on specific cities in the United States, check out these city guides:

• Austin Travel Guide
• Boston Travel Guide
• Chicago Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Las Vegas Travel Guide
• Los Angeles Travel Guide
• Miami Travel Guide
• New York Travel Guide
• Philadelphia Travel Guide
• San Francisco Travel Guide
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Washington D.C. Travel Guide

United States Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels can be found in most major cities, though options are generally slim in the country. A bed in a dorm room with 4-6 beds usually costs between $35-55 USD per night. Rooms with more beds are marginally cheaper (they start around $25-30 USD per night). Private rooms are usually $75-125 USD. Expect prices on the higher end in bigger cities and during peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Hostels with free breakfast are rare.

If you plan on camping, expect to pay at least $20-30 USD per night for a basic tent plot for two without electricity.

Cheap motels usually start around $60-75 USD per night and can be found along any highway. Expect basic amenities like TV, Wi-Fi, and AC. Some have pools.

Budget two-star hotels start at $90 USD per night. But, in major cities like NYC, LA, or Chicago, they start closer to $125 USD. The U.S. is very vast and prices fluctuate a lot depending on what region you’re in so check out the specific city guides listed above for more detailed information on accommodation. The United States is too diverse to pin down a specific number!

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at $40 USD per night, though for good rooms, you’ll likely pay closer to $60 USD. For an entire home/apartment, expect to pay at least $100 USD per night. Prices in large cities are usually double. Again, there’s a lot of variation depending on where you’re going so check out the city guides for more specific prices!

Food – From seafood in New England to BBQ in the South to Tex-Mex and organic whole foods in the West to German influenced food in the Midwest, there is no singular food culture in the US. Every region has its own staples, which means you’ll never get bored of eating your way around the country.

Since the country is so big, prices for food vary a lot. What is $5 USD in Kansas is probably $15 USD in New York City. Below are some country averages but, if visiting a big metropolis/coastal city, add about 25% to the price.

Grab-and-go sandwiches usually cost around $10 USD while fast food costs $10-12 USD for a combo meal. Meals from food trucks will cost between $10-15 USD. Mid-range casual restaurants cost between $25-30 USD for a meal and drink. At some place a little nicer (think white table cloth), expect to spend at least $60 USD per person on dinner. Prices go up from there and the sky is the limit. Again, consult the city and destination guides for specific prices.

You can generally find takeout pizzas for around $10-15 USD while Chinese and Thai cuisine start around $10-12 USD for a main dish.

Beer is around $6-8 USD, a glass of wine is $8-10 USD, and cocktails start at $14 USD in most cities (about $20 USD in NYC though!). A latte/cappuccino is $4-5 USD and bottled water is $2 USD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay about $60-80 USD per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking the United States Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit the United States? Well, how much you spend largely depends on where in the United States you’re going to visit. For example, New York City is much more expensive than Memphis and San Francisco is going to hit your budget harder than Boise. The South is cheaper than the North and the interior states are cheaper than the coasts. The comparisons are endless! However, this overview can give you a basic look at what to expect based on your travel style and assuming you’re going to mix cheap and expensive destinations.

On a backpacking budget of $75 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do free activities like walking tours, hiking, and hanging out at beaches. If you plan on drinking, add another $10-20 USD per day. If you can camp or Couchsurf, you can likely get this down to $50-60 USD per day.

On a mid-range budget of $210 USD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or motel, eat out for most meals, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On an upscale budget of $350 USD or more per day, you can stay in a midrange hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

United States Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There are plenty of ways to save money when you travel the U.S. but it varies a lot by region (as I’ve been repeating). The general tips below can help you get started but, for more specific tips, visit my city guides.

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to a new place, and most major cities in the U.S. have free walking tours. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Take the bus – The cheapest way to get around the U.S. is by bus. Bus fares cost as little as $1 USD, though 2-3-hour journeys start around $30 USD. Between cities, the best companies are Megabus, Greyhound, and FlixBus.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in big cities. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car.
• Get a U.S. Park Pass – This national park pass lets you into all the national parks for free so you don’t have to keep paying admission. The annual fee is $80 USD and it pays for itself after four parks.
• Cook – The United States has some of the cheapest groceries in the developed world, while eating out here can add up quickly once you factor in a tip and tax (which varies by state). Grocery shopping can about $60 USD per week and is way cheaper and healthier than eating out every day. Cook and save!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with a local who can share their tips and advice while sharing your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Camp – Most campsites start around $20-30 USD per night for a tent — much cheaper than a hostel. You can use nps.gov to find campsites run by the National Park Service. You can also camp for free in National Forests or Bureau Land Management (BLM) lands (search for “dispersed camping” options). Just be sure to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles when camping.
• Use city tourism cards – City tourism cards allow you to see a large number of attractions (and often include free public transportation) for one low price, usually $75–100 USD. If you plan on seeing a lot, these can save you a ton.
• Share your ride – If you have a car, taking on riders can be a way to lower your costs. On my first trip across the U.S., I offered rides to people I met in hostels. On another trip, I had friends and readers join me along the way. You can post ads on Craigslist and at hostels to find riders. This not only makes the trip more enjoyable but lowers your gas costs too. If you don’t have a car, you can use look for rides in the same places.
• Stay at roadside hotels – There are a plethora of cheap roadside hotels such as Motel 6 and Super 8 to the rescue. Rooms start around $60-75 USD a night (plus tax). They’re great when you’re traveling with someone and can split the cost.
• Find free museums and events – Inquire at tourism offices, use Google, or ask hotel or hostel staff for information about free events and museums. Many museums offer free or discounted admission times throughout the week.
• Get free water or free refills – If you order a drink, most restaurants allow free refills while you eat your meal or refills at a low cost. If you ask, tap water is usually provided for free.
• Save on gas – If you’re on a road trip, use the app GasBuddy to find cheap gas near you. Also, sign up for gas station loyalty programs as they can save you money on fill ups.

Where to Stay in the United States

Hostels are not all that plentiful across the United States yet. Generally, those that do exist are clean, social, and fun. You’ll find a lot of budget hotels wherever you go. here are some of my recommended places to stay around the USA (the cities guides will have even more suggestions):

• HI Hostel (Boston)
• The Revolution Hotel (Boston)
• HI Hostel (Chicago)
• The Arlo (Chicago)
• Banana Bungalow (Los Angeles)
• Hollywood Historic Hotel Los Angeles
• Hostel Memphis (Memphis)
• Hu Hotel (Memphis)
• Freehand (Miami)
• Hotel Ocean (Miami)
• HI New Orleans (New Orleans)
• Villa Convento (New Orleans)
• The Local (New York City)
• Heritage Hotel (New York City)
• ITH Adventure Hostel (San Diego)
• Old Town Inn (San Diego)
• The Green Tortoise (San Francisco)
• SW Hotel (San Francisco)
• The Green Tortoise (Seattle)
• MarQueen Hotel (Seattle)

How to Get Around the United States

City transportation – Most U.S. cities have public transportation, including metro systems and buses. Fares cost around $2-3 USD for a single journey, but there are usually packaged options for visitors. For example, you can get a 7-day unlimited MetroCard in New York City for $34 USD, which covers both buses and the subway system, while San Francisco offers a 7-day transit pass for $41 USD.

Outside of major cities, subways are rare. Some of the smaller cities have trams. Everywhere has a bus though and that’s usually the best way to get around.

Taxis – Taxis are metered with charges starting around $3 USD plus $2-3 USD per mile. This is one of the most expensive ways to get around, however, so I’d skip it unless you have no other choice.

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are generally cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.

Intercity Bus – Taking the bus is one of the cheapest options for getting around the country, with fares as low as $1 USD if you book far enough in advance. Popular bus companies include:

A 4-5-hour bus ride from New York to Washington D.C. starts at $30 USD, while the 7-hour journey from Chicago to Detroit starts at $27 USD. Austin to New Orleans is around $54 USD. Booking early can save you upwards of 50% so try to plan ahead if you’re going to be taking the bus.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Flying – Flying is your quickest option for long distance. You can occasionally find sales for as little as $100 USD so it’s worth it to check several websites ahead of time to see what deals are on. Post-COVID, fares are a lot higher than they were in the past. But if you find a deal, book in advance, or go off season, you can usually get a cheap fare. Sample one-way fares include San Francisco to Maui for $100-150 USD, Seattle to Austin for $85-115 USD, or New York to L.A. for $250 USD (round trip). However, prices can easily double if booked last minute.

For more information on how to find a cheap flight, check out this article .

Train – Amtrak is the rail provider for the United States, but it’s not the quickest or most affordable way to travel. They have routes all around the country ( here’s their route map ) and offer a cross-country pass for $499 USD. The USA Rail Pass gives you 30 days of travel over 10 segments, which averages out to around $50 USD per leg.

If you have a valid student ID you can save 15% on your tickets.

As for prices, A 20-hour train ride from Chicago to New Orleans costs around $110 USD, while a multi-day trip from New York to Los Angeles is around $280 USD. Book in advance to find the best deals. Shorter trips lasting 2-4 hours are usually under $40 USD.

Car rental – Roadtripping is a great way to explore the country, and car rentals can be found for as little as $35 USD for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in the United States is common and safe. Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and a light meal or two, like sandwiches and fruit. Hitchwiki is a great resource for additional hitchhiking tips.

When to Go to the United States

Since the United States is such a large country, the climate and temperature change drastically from coast to coast and from north to south.

The northern states have clearly defined seasons. In cities like Chicago, Boston, and New York, winter can bring heavy snowfall and more severe temperatures. Coastal areas like Seattle and Portland, Oregon, tend to be milder. Spring can start as late as May in the northernmost parts of the country, but this is a good time to visit because the weather begins to warm up and the busy tourist season hasn’t started yet. Summers are gorgeous and temperatures climb into the 80s°F (30s°C). It’s also the busiest time of year for tourism. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the northern states because many parts of this region have a lot of trees. Temperatures have cooled, crowds have dwindled, and the changing leaves offer an something extra to enjoy.

The southern states have less defined seasons. In the southwest, winters tend to be dry and mild. In the southeast, temperatures are mild but places like and Memphis can be rainy. Spring is a wonderful time to visit this part of the country because temperatures are warm but not stifling. Summers get incredibly hot and humid in the southeast. In the desert areas of the southwest, like Las Vegas, temperatures can soar well above 104°F (40°C) on some days. Autumn cools things off across the southern states, but can also bring severe weather in the southeast. .

Ultimately, the best time to travel to the United States depends on where you’re headed and what kind of activities you’d like to do. Visit our city guides for more specific information on when to go.

How to Stay Safe in the United States

The United States is a massive country and “safety” changes a lot depending on where you go and what you do. Generally, the US safe place to travel around — even if you’re traveling solo.

Violent attacks tend to be confined to certain areas (especially where drug and gang violence are a problem). You may encounter petty crime, like theft, especially around popular tourist landmarks and in larger cities, especially on the west coast where theft is a much more common problem. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially while taking crowded public transportation.

Gun violence and mass shootings tend to dominate headlines when they happen. However, the chances of it happening to you are slim. Do not let this discourage you from exploring the United States. The U.S. is very big and very, very diverse. And, due to this size, there is a lot of cultural (and political) variation. Despite what you hear, crime in America is low. (There was far more crime in the US in the 1990s!). For more information, read this post, “ Is it Safe to Visit the United States?”

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Take common sense safety measures and you’ll be fine.

Moreover, be sure to read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe but all the standard safety cautions apply. For specific tips, I would read one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

United States Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

United States Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in San Francisco: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 12 Best Things to Do in Chicago

The 5 Best Hotels in San Francisco

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

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National Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings

Schools in the National Liberal Arts Colleges category, such as Spelman College and Haverford College, emphasize undergraduate education and award at least half of their degrees in the liberal arts fields of study. Read the methodology »

To unlock full rankings, SAT/ACT scores and more, sign up for the U.S. News College Compass !

Here are the best liberal arts colleges in the U.S.

Williams college, amherst college, united states naval academy, pomona college, swarthmore college, wellesley college, united states air force academy, united states military academy at west point, bowdoin college.

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Williamstown, MA

• #1 in National Liberal Arts Colleges

Williams College, a private institution in Williamstown, Massachusetts, has three undergraduate academic branches: humanities and the arts, social sciences, and science and mathematics. Classes at Williams are small and some use an Oxford-style teaching method that relies heavily on student participation.

(fall 2022)

SAT, GPA and More

Amherst, MA

• #2 in National Liberal Arts Colleges

Amherst College, a private school in Amherst, Massachusetts, is known for its rigorous academic climate. Because Amherst is a member of the Five Colleges consortium, students can also take courses at Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College and the University of Massachusetts—Amherst.

Annapolis, MD

• #3 in National Liberal Arts Colleges

The United States Naval Academy is a public school located in the waterfront town of Annapolis, Maryland. Students, known as midshipmen, are officers in training, and tuition is fully funded by the U.S. Navy in return for active-duty service after graduation.

(out-of-state)

Claremont, CA

• #4 in National Liberal Arts Colleges  (tie)

Pomona College is located in Claremont, California, about 35 miles away from downtown Los Angeles. Students can take advantage of this private institution's unique location during the annual Ski Beach Day, a morning of skiing at a local resort before an afternoon on a beach in Orange County.

Swarthmore, PA

About 10 miles outside of Philadelphia is Swarthmore College, a private liberal arts institution that also offers a unique engineering degree program. Because Swarthmore is part of the Tri-College Consortium, students can also take courses at nearby Bryn Mawr College and Haverford College.

Wellesley, MA

Wellesley is a private liberal arts college for women about 10 miles from Boston in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Students at Wellesley have more than 1,000 courses and more than 50 majors to choose from and can also cross-register for classes at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

USAF Academy, CO

• #7 in National Liberal Arts Colleges

The United States Air Force Academy, commonly called Air Force, is a military service academy located just outside of Colorado Springs, Colo., about 60 miles from Denver. Students at Air Force, called cadets, adhere to a strict daily schedule that does not allow for much free time, though there are a number of extracurricular clubs and activities. Incoming cadets attend a five-week training program intended to prepare them for military life. Cadets are required to participate in athletics — either intercollegiate or intramural — and must pass a fitness test every semester. The Fighting Falcons, Air Force’s athletic teams, compete in NCAA’s Division I and are known for their traditional rivalries with fellow service academies Army and Navy.

West Point, NY

• #8 in National Liberal Arts Colleges

The United States Military Academy at West Point is the oldest of the country’s five federal service academies. The public school is located in West Point, N.Y., where graduates earn a bachelor of science degree and are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army.

Brunswick, ME

• #9 in National Liberal Arts Colleges  (tie)

Submitting SAT and ACT scores is optional for admission to Bowdoin College, a private institution located in the coastal New England town of Brunswick, Maine. The college is home to many organizations including the Peucinian Society, one of the oldest literary and intellectual societies in the country.

Carleton College

Northfield, MN

Carleton College is a private school in the historic river town of Northfield, Minnesota. Carls, as its students are known, have about 35 majors to choose from and more than 170 organizations to check out.