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Would you like to visit South America sometime soon? Or are you daydreaming about fun places to visit? Whichever it may be, this list of the best places to visit in South America is sure to inspire and strike up some wanderlust.
Some of the best countries to visit in South America are just a flight or two away. Home to beaches, waterfalls, the Amazon Rainforest, massive cities, ancient ruins, the Andes Mountains, glaciers, and more, South America has it all. Whatever you are looking for, you are likely to find it here! Keep reading to discover the top 25 South America travel destinations. Then, get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Table of Contents
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
- Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil
- Cusco, Peru
- Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
- Easter Island, Chile
- El Calafate, Argentina
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- The Sacred Valley, Peru
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Torres del Paine, Chile
- Peruvian Amazon
- Mendoza, Argentina
- Lima, Peru
- Atacama Desert, Chile
- Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
- Quito, Ecuador
- Ushuaia, Argentina
- Arequipa, Peru
- La Paz, Bolivia
- Brazilian Amazon
- Bariloche, Argentina
- Cuenca, Ecuador
- Lake Titicaca, Bolivia and Peru
- Santiago, Chile
1. Machu Picchu, Peru
This masterpiece of the Inca civilization claims the title of the best place to visit in South America. There’s no question that Machu Picchu is visually stunning. But the more you start to learn about its backstory — how it was built and how it stayed intact for 500 years — the more amazed you’ll become.
Part of the reason why Machu Picchu still exists today is due to its hard to reach location in the rainy cloud forest about 50 miles (80 km) northwest of Cusco. Researchers believe that Machu Picchu was the royal estate of the Emperor Pachacuti. He was the 15th-century king responsible for transforming the Inca civilization into the largest empire South America had ever seen. No one knows exactly why the Incas abandoned the site, but the conquering Spaniards never heard of it — or if they did, they never found it.
Machu Picchu, an Inca ruin in the cloud forest of Peru. Photo by Maribell Mormontoy of Peru for Less.
In contrast to the Incas’ palaces and temples of Cusco and the Sacred Valley which were plundered and dismantled, Machu Picchu remained intact. As such, it gives us tantalizing evidence of the Incas masterful building genius.
A tour of Machu Picchu brings the ruins to life. Walking through the narrow paths, you can start to imagine what daily life was like for inhabitants of the citadel. And you can see for yourself the incredible feats required to transform a mountain ridge into a walkable citadel.
Learn more about this incredible site in our complete Machu Picchu travel guide.
Machu Picchu, the best place to visit in South America. Photo by Michael Wieck of Peru for Less.
2. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands top the list of the best places to visit in Ecuador. This archipelago of 21 islands has one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Along with the incredible scenery, Galapagos tours also include snorkeling, kayaking, and nature walks to enhance your experience.
The islands are best known for aiding Charles Darwin’s research on evolution. To this day, the Galapagos boasts an impressive array of wildlife, and human disturbances are minimal. Sea lions, giant tortoises, sharks, and iguanas are some of the most frequently spotted creatures. In addition, the Galapagos offers some of the best birdwatching in South America. Red and blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, Darwin finches, mockingbirds, and Galapagos penguins are just some of the many bird species living on the islands.
Giant tortoises live on Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal Islands in the Galapagos.
The Galapagos are home to several incredible cruise options in addition to hotels on the main islands. Not sure whether to pick a cruise or a hotel? Read through these questions to help you decide what option is best for you.
Learn more about the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands in our complete Galapagos travel guide.
Ocean view from Santa Fe Island in the Galapagos. Photo by Melissa Dreffs of Peru for Less.
3. Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil
One of the most beautiful places in Brazil and Argentina, the Iguazu Falls are a chain of 275 roaring cascades in the middle of a tropical forest. Shared between the two countries, the Iguazu Falls are one of the best places to travel in South America.
Spanning 1.6 miles (2.7 km) in length, Iguazu Falls is a top contender for the title of South America’s greatest natural wonder. The Devil’s Throat is the largest cascade. Shaped like a semicircle, it is 492 feet (150 m) in diameter, 2297 feet (700 m) from end to end, and boasts an 269 feet (82 m) drop. The roar of crashing water is so deafening it sends chills up your spine.
The Iguazu Falls of Brazil and Argentina. Photo by Melissa Dreffs of Peru for Less.
It’s worth seeing both sides of the falls. Argentina’s Iguazu National Park is a truly immersive experience. More than 70% of the falls are in Argentina and the trails here provide a close encounter with the natural landscape of the falls. The Brazilian Iguazu National Park provides beautiful panoramic views of the falls. As you follow the path, you can get up close to several falls, so be sure to pack a poncho and something to protect your camera.
For a real adrenaline rush, hop aboard a speed boat and ride over whirlpools, waves, and currents to the base of the crashing waters. No matter how you see the falls, be prepared to get fully drenched by the waterfall’s mists!
Looking to see Brazil, Argentina, and Peru all in one trip? Consider this 11-day World Wonders package! Yes, it’s a whirlwind. But you’ll be talking about the journey for years to come.
Lush jungle surrounds the Iguazu Falls. Photo by Melissa Dreffs of Peru for Less.
4. Cusco, Peru
One of the oldest cities in South America, Cusco was once the capital of the thriving Inca Empire. Today, Cusco is a melting pot of traditional Andean culture and international influences. Besides being the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco is also one of the top places to visit in Peru. The picturesque city of Cusco is absolutely one of the most beautiful places in South America.
Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, or main square from above.
With impressive ruins like Sacsayhuaman, the Temple of the Sun known as Coricancha, and many other historic sites, Cusco has plenty to see and do. There’s something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, architecture, culture, or hiking some of the best treks in Peru. From the bustling San Pedro Market to the bohemian San Blas neighborhood, Cusco is full of lovely colors, friendly people, and unique traditions.
No trip to South America is complete without a visit to Cusco. Learn all about this thriving city in our complete Cusco travel guide.
Coricancha and surrounding architecture. Photo by jdbenthien on Pixabay.
5. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Of all the tourist attractions in Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni is by far the most spectacular. Part of the year, massive, white salt flats stretch as far as the eye can see. However, during the wet season from November to March, a thin layer of water covers the salt flats. As a result, the salt flats turn into a perfect natural mirror, reflecting the sky and everything above.
Uyuni salt flats. Photo by mailanmaik on pixabay.
Colorful lagoons, unique wildlife, and the nearby Salvador Dali Desert only add to the experience. The largest salt desert in the world, Uyuni has a remote location in the Potosi department in the southwest corner of the country. Daily flights connect Uyuni with La Paz, the capital of Bolivia.
For a unique experience in both Peru and Bolivia, check out this 11-day highlights tour, ending with a 3-day tour of the Uyuni salt flats!
Cacti growing in the Uyuni salt flats. Photo by oscarwcastillo on pixabay.
6. Easter Island, Chile
Although Easter Island is about 2,500 miles (4,000 km) from Chile’s coast, it is one of the most famous places in Chile. While legally a Chilean territory, Easter Island is a part of the Polynesian Islands. Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is a true archaeological gem of the Pacific. The island is home to 887 moai stone statues known for their distinct humanoid features.
The moai statues are the main attractions on the island and the most well known feature globally. Each statue represents an ancestor of the native Rapa Nui people. Made from volcanic ash found near the extinct Rano Raraku volcano, many statues never made it to their final destination. About half of the statues are still in the quarry, making it another unique site to visit on the island.
Moai, or statues, of Easter Island in Chile.
Did you know that you can also see volcanic craters, go scuba diving, and go horseback riding on Easter Island? With so much to see and do, why not add this destination to your South America trip?
Learn more about Easter Island or check out a sample itinerary to Santiago and Easter Island here.
Easter Island statues.
7. El Calafate, Argentina
One of the best places to visit in Argentina, El Calafate is the hub to visit Los Glaciares National Park. 47 glaciers call this park home, and one of the most spectacular and well known is Perito Moreno. This glacier is a whopping 97 square miles (250 sq km) of ice. Snow-capped mountains and Lake Argentino, an icy blue lake, make a visit to Perito Moreno all the more stunning.
While many glaciers around the world are melting, the Perito Moreno glacier is in a state of equilibrium. It continues accumulating mass at about the same rate that it is losing mass. Scientists are still debating the reason, but this fact makes Perito Moreno stand out from other glaciers in the world.
Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate, Argentina.
While visiting, put on some crampons and hike on top of the glacier for a truly unique experience. Mini trekking allows you to hike for about two hours, passing waterfalls and icy lagoons. For those looking for an even more remote, adventurous experience, head out on a Big Ice tour for four hours of trekking. This is certainly more intense, but the views along the way are worth it. Read more about the hiking options on Perito Moreno here.
If you plan to travel to Patagonia, El Calafate is worth adding to your trip. Take a look at our travel packages to El Calafate here.
Glacier views in El Calafate, Argentina.
8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
With some of the best beaches in South America, Rio de Janeiro is certainly one of our top travel destinations. While Brazil itself is huge – the largest country in South America – and full of awesome places to visit, Rio de Janeiro is very high on the list. In addition to its gorgeous beaches, Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant, cultural hub best known for its extravagant Carnival festival each February.
One of the most famous places in Brazil, the gargantuan statue of Christ the Redeemer towers over one of the most recognizable landscapes in the world. Brazil is a deeply Catholic country. In fact, the statue’s construction was funded entirely by donations from Catholic parishioners across Brazil. For residents of Rio de Janeiro, it is as symbolic of the city’s identity as Carnival, samba, and soccer (or football, as the locals call it).
Christ the Redeemer overlooking Rio de Janeiro. Photo by guertzen on pixabay.
From the top, you can soak in breathtaking views of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay. This combination of city and mountains by the sea has bred an exceptional outdoor lifestyle unique to Rio — so unique it was recognized as a UNESCO Cultural Landscape in 2012.
What better place to visit on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to South America? Take a look at our suggested Rio de Janeiro tour packages here.
Cable cars in Rio de Janeiro. Photo by Poswiecie on pixabay.
9. The Sacred Valley, Peru
Most travelers heading to Peru know of Cusco and Machu Picchu, but the area in between is a hidden gem. One of the must sees in Peru, the Sacred Valley is a quaint, picturesque region in the Peruvian Andes, characterized by small towns nestled in between the tall peaks.
Sheep grazing in Peru’s Sacred Valley. Photo by Loretta Lynn on pixabay.
The Sacred Valley is an adventure lover’s paradise. Activities like zip lining, trekking, mountain biking, and more draw travelers to the remote region. Inca ruins, artisan markets, and small Quechua villages across the valley only enhance the experience. Travelers can stay in one of many luxury hotels tucked between the mountains. Incredible spas, vast mountain landscapes, and clear skies full of stars await!
Learn more in our complete Sacred Valley travel guide.
The Sacred Valley in Peru. Photo by Paul Daly on Unsplash.
10. Buenos Aires, Argentina
The capital and one of the most famous places in Argentina, Buenos Aires truly lives up to its nickname, “the Paris of South America.” A cosmopolitan, culturally rich city, Buenos Aires offers endless grand boulevards, eclectic architecture, a quaint cafe culture, and great shopping all reminiscent of Paris.
The Plaza Fuerza Aérea Argentina in the Retiro district of Buenos Aires.
In addition, Buenos Aires is a hub for tango, art museums, and live theater, with the most active theaters of any city worldwide! Known for high quality meat, Argentinean restaurants pair delicious dishes with some of the best wine the world has to offer. From Buenos Aires, you can even check out Uruguay for a day or two.
Learn more about the best neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. Then take a look at some suggested travel packages to Buenos Aires. Bon voyage!
Colorful signs are a staple in Buenos Aires. Photo by ArtTower on pixabay.
11. Torres del Paine, Chile
Our top destination in Chilean Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is full of astounding peaks, icy blue lagoons, and endless hiking trails to explore. Trips to Torres del Paine can range anywhere from one day tours to 9-11 day trekking circuits. Best known for the 5-day W-trek, all the treks in the national park pass by impressive sights like volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls.
Trekking deep into the park adds even more to the once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, all visitors to the park can see beautiful mountain landscapes, massive icebergs, flower-filled valleys, and the dramatic, towering spires above.
Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.
A rather remote destination, most travelers take a combination of flight, bus, and car to reach the park. Puerto Natales, a small town just outside the park, is the typical launching point for Torres del Paine exploration with several quaint lodges. However, several lodges sit inside the national park itself.
For more information on our Torres del Paine packages, contact our team of expert Travel Advisors.
Guanacos, a llama relative, roam in the Torres del Paine National Park.
12. Peruvian Amazon
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the top places you should visit. Crossing the borders into nine countries in South America, this jungle is the largest and most biodiverse in the world. As a tourist destination, two cities in the Peruvian Amazon, Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos, offer travelers a unique, in depth visit to the rainforest.
Get up close and personal with the Amazon River, pink river dolphins, and plenty of unique animals in Iquitos. The main city in the northern part of the rainforest, Iquitos is rather far from other destinations. However, daily flights with Lima connect travelers to this remote location. Choose from luxury river cruises or all-inclusive jungle lodges for the best experience.
Lake Sandoval in Puerto Maldonado, Peru. Photo by Lizzie Thomas of Peru for Less.
Puerto Maldonado, on the other hand, is closer to Cusco (with direct flights available daily) and has superior jungle lodges. The proximity to the Tambopata National Reserve enhances the chances of spotting unique jungle wildlife, including monkeys, giant river otters, and many colorful birds.
Check out our complete Peruvian Amazon travel guide here.
Rainbow above the Peruvian Amazon canopy. Photo by Liz Sperling of Peru for Less.
13. Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is one of the top places to see in Argentina. Home to many of the best vineyards in the country, Mendoza is the place to go to discover South American wines. While Mendoza is best known for high quality Malbec, some vineyards also offer other wine varieties, like Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and Chardonnay.
Vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina.
Besides the phenomenal wines, the landscape surrounding Mendoza is stunning. The city rests in the foothills of the Andes, near the highest peak in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres, the Aconcagua (22,837 ft / 6,960.8 m). While most travelers come for the wine, adventure activities like hiking, river rafting, and biking are also available.
Check out some insider tips about Mendoza here!
