The continent of South America is as huge as it’s diversified. From cities in South America like Rio de Janeiro to the great thing about Argentinian Patagonia, South America has a vacation spot to go well with each style. Nevertheless, with so many locations, it may be completely bamboozling to seek out the proper place to begin your journey, particularly as among the greatest locations in South America to go to are at different ends of the continent.
Through the years, we’ve visited South America many instances. It’s unimaginable, and it’s the rationale we preserve going again. Nevertheless, one phrase of recommendation: if it’s your first time visiting South America, attempt to not get overwhelmed with all the alternatives—which could be powerful, I do know. Plan any journey to South America in bite-size and achievable chunks of time, specializing in the areas you like most.
So, that can assist you discover the areas in South America to go to, I’m sharing the highest locations we completely love. Have essentially the most superb time visiting South America.
1.) Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is an unimaginable metropolis and simply the most effective locations in South America to discover should you’re exploring wider Argentina. As you’d count on, it’s bought the hustle and bustle of any world metropolis, but it surely additionally has pockets of actually cool and enjoyable locations to go to.
As soon as right here, it’s essential to try San Telmo Marketplace for the meals. We’ve been right here many instances, and the stalls and merchants are unimaginable. I beloved Beba Cocina, and their empanadas are unimaginable.
Oh, and don’t overlook to go to the colorful district of La Boca, which you’ll be able to stroll round for a day journey. Plus, locations just like the Colon Theatre are excellent for seeing a present (or tour) in one in every of South America’s most grand settings.
Lastly, don’t overlook in regards to the Buenos Aires milongas or tango halls, that are genuine and thrilling locations for an evening out. Should you assume you’re not up for this, you’ll be able to simply go for a tango present, which is so thrilling for an evening out.
Learn extra: Greatest issues to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina
2.) Cusco, Peru
In all probability one in every of Peru’s hottest cities to go to, Cusco is charming and so historic to spend a day exploring. Now, in a number of methods, Cusco acts as a gateway to the Inca Path or for taking the practice to Machu Picchu; but it surely’s additionally a vacation spot in its personal proper.
Should you’re already visiting Macchu Picchu, I’d suggest staying in Cusco for no less than 4 days. Not simply to acclimatise to the excessive altitude, however you’ve additionally bought heaps of Inca websites, simply exterior town limits.
You’ll be able to see Cusco’s historic centre and even use town as a jumping-off level to discover locations like Rainbow Mountain and even take the Andean Explorer to Lake Titicaca. We had the very best time visiting Peru, and it’s simply one of many high international locations to go to in South America if you wish to discover the continent’s historic historical past. It’s superb.
Learn extra: What’s it like to go to Cusco
3.) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Some of the spectacular and the most well-liked cities in Brazil (and in the entire world) is Rio de Janeiro. It’s a hive of actions, proper by the seashore, and there are such a lot of issues to see and do whilst you’re right here.
As soon as right here, it’s essential to go to Christ the Redeemer’s 30-metre statue, with the very best views round sundown. That being mentioned, it can be tremendous busy, so be ready for that and safe these tickets upfront.
Additionally, don’t overlook about Escadaria Selaron’s vibrant crimson steps and Sugarloaf Mountain’s unbeatable view of the coast.
Along with the spectacular views and spots talked about above, Rio de Janeiro additionally has many various seashores. Clearly, essentially the most well-known is Copacabana Seashore.
Nevertheless, there are hundreds extra, like Ipanema Seashore and Prainha Seashore, to call a couple of.
As with every world metropolis, it’s value remembering security. By no means put on flashy jewelry or watches or head down darkish alleys. It’s the standard stuff, I do know, however you do should be additional vigilant in Rio de Janeiro, as muggings could be potential.
Learn extra: Greatest issues to do in Rio de Janeiro
4.) Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia
Nestled within the southwest of Bolivia, the Uyuni Salt Flat is definitely the most effective locations in South America that’s completely distinctive. You see, Uyuni Salt Flat is likely one of the largest salt flats in all the world, and it’s gorgeous to see.
The entire panorama round Uyuni Salt Flat looks like a very completely different planet, although it did look very completely different way back. You see, the Uyuni Salt Flat was fashioned when a very outdated lake evaporated and eventually disappeared. It left this gorgeous panorama.
It’s the right addition to any South American journey itinerary and very easy to go to should you’re already visiting La Paz in Bolivia and even in Peru (as they’re neighbouring international locations).
Learn extra: Greatest locations to go to in Bolivia
5.) Medellin, Colombia
Medellin has had one thing of a resurgence lately, and with good purpose, it’s stunning. Now, at one level, not too far within the distant previous, Medellin was extraordinarily harmful and was recognized the world over for its cartels and drug lords working within the space.
Though it’s nonetheless a bit of tough across the edges (and it is best to at all times journey safely), Medellin is an unimaginable place in South America to go to should you’re already in Colombia. In reality, the entire nation of Colombia has so many locations you’ll be able to’t miss.
As soon as right here, stroll round Plaza Botero, go to the Botanic Gardens of Medellin and discover the El Castillo Museum. You’ll be able to simply spend 4 days in Medellin, which will provide you with a fantastic really feel for town.
Learn extra: Greatest locations in Colombia to go to
6.) Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is arms down the most effective locations in South America to go to. The ruined Inca citadel is 1000’s of years outdated and is likely one of the world’s seven wonders.
We spent a couple of week across the Inca Path, taking the practice to Machu Picchu city and staying within the native space, the place we even picked our tea.
Now, to get to Machu Picchu, is a trek in itself. It could possibly take upwards of 5 days, and the views you’ll get to see throughout your hike will certainly be as unimaginable as the highest of Machu Picchu.
That being mentioned, you may also take the practice from Cusco for a a lot simpler route after which purchase your entry to Machu Picchu. Although, do that properly earlier than you arrive; tickets to Machu Picchu promote out quick.
Learn extra: Easy methods to go to Machu Picchu in Peru
7.) Montevideo, Uruguay
Not too removed from Buenos Aires in Argentina, Montevideo could be thought-about a hidden gem in South America. Properly, clearly, it’s not hidden per se; it’s extra forgotten in lieu of larger cities in South America to go to.
Now, I positively really feel like Montevideo is likely one of the greatest locations in South America to go to should you’re on the lookout for a barely cheaper choice in comparison with locations like Rio. After arriving in Montevideo, be certain that to go to the attractive Solis Theatre and stroll by way of Palacio Salvo.
Not solely that, town is such a foodie vacation spot, and the Port Market and Agrícola de Montevideo Market are each so scrumptious.
Learn extra: Greatest cities in South America to go to
8.) Patagonia, Argentina
Argentinian Patagonia is greatest described because the huge space to the nation’s south, and it’s unimaginable to go to. It’s the most effective locations in South America to discover should you love the nice outside and journey journey.
Identified for its geological exercise and huge ice reserves, Patagonia is a spot value visiting should you love mountain climbing. You’ll get to discover locations just like the unimaginable Perito Moreno Glacier.
Within the months between November and March, large ice blocks soften and break off. Although this occurs all year long, however we at all times suggest visiting throughout these summer season months to have the very best probability of excellent climate.
Additionally, don’t overlook about different unimaginable locations across the area, like Fitzroy Mountain, exploring the area round El Calafate and El Chaltén, and heading additional south to locations like Ushuaia (the gateway metropolis to Antarctica).
Learn extra: Issues to know earlier than reserving an Antarctic expedition
9.) Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
Iguazu Falls is the biggest waterfall system on the globe and the most effective locations in South America to go to should you’re travelling by way of Argentina or Brazil. It’s proper on the Argentine and Brazilian border, and the entire space round it is simply gorgeous.
Now, one factor to find out about Iguazu Falls is that it will get extremely popular and humid within the peak of summer season. The entire space is lush, inexperienced and fairly moist (as you’ll be able to think about) – so ensure you’re ready for that.
Additionally, don’t overlook about mosquitos. They love the world and are sometimes within the shallow, nonetheless swimming pools in and round Iguazu Falls. You’ll go away with heaps of bites should you’re something like me.
10.) Santiago, Chile
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is properly value visiting for a couple of days. Like many South American cities, it will probably act as a gateway to discover the broader Chile.
When you’ve arrived in Santiago, be certain that to see the gorgeous views from Sky Costanera. You get essentially the most attractive vistas of town, and it’s gorgeous. Oh, and make sure to head to the Museum of Chile, Precolombian Artwork. We beloved our go to, and you’ll discover 1000’s of years of historical past in a single place.
Learn extra: Greatest issues to do in Santiago, Chile
11.) Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Fernando de Noronha in Brazil is gorgeous. It’s a cluster of 21 mind-blowing islands, with the principle island being completely gorgeous to go to.
Simply bear in mind it’s over 300 km from the coast of Brazil itself, however Fernando de Noronha is likely one of the greatest locations in South America to go to if you wish to see an unspoilt area.
Keep in mind, Fernando de Noronha is well-protected, and conservation insurance policies imply that solely a sure variety of folks can go to it at any time.
So, in case you are planning a go to to Fernando de Noronha, plan it properly upfront. It’s not the place in South America the place you’ll be able to simply rock up and ‘wing it’.
12.) Valparaiso, Chile
Each are a bit of chaotic however completely great. Valparaiso is likely one of the greatest locations in South America to go to as you journey by way of Chile. It’s completely historic and full of unimaginable streets, particularly across the clifftop.
As soon as right here, be certain that to go to La Sebastiana Museo de Pablo Neruda and discover Baburizza Palace and the hill space of Cerro Alegre. Nevertheless, Valparaiso is full of hills at each flip. Additionally, did I point out that this metropolis is most well-known for its artwork? No. Properly, lots of the winding historic streets are adorned – it’s excellent should you love avenue artwork.
Oh, and a heads up on security: as with most South American cities, you’ll want to have your wits about you right here. If not sure of the world, go round with a professional information and don’t take or put on any valuables which may make you a goal for muggings.
13.) La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz is gorgeous, with many locations to discover, so you’ll by no means run out of issues to do right here. A few of the greatest locations to go to in La Paz embody Valle de la Luna, the Witches Market (El Mercado de las Brujas), Loss of life Highway and La Paz’s loft viewpoints.
La Paz can also be the world’s highest administrative capital, and you’ll take within the magnificent view of town as you go to. The aerial cable automotive system can also be value trying out.
La Paz can also be the most effective cities within the area, so ensure you probe for a couple of days when seeing the highest spots in Bolivia.
Learn extra: Greatest locations to go to in Bolivia
14.) Mendoza, Argentina
Argentian wine nation—my gosh, I beloved Mendoza. A fast two-hour flight from Buenos Aires will get you to the foothills of the Andes and the non secular house of Malbec. Mendoza is definitely the most effective locations in South America to go to should you love wines. The crimson wine selection, Malbec, is thought the world over and is scrumptious right here.
We spent 5-6 days travelling by way of Mendoza and beloved each second of it. Simply be certain that to present your self sufficient time to go to a couple of wineries and vineyards whilst you’re right here. It’s rather more of a slower-paced area to journey round, excellent should you’ve had a chaotic and busy few days in Buenos Aires.
15.) Quito, Ecuador
Thought-about the best capital metropolis on the planet, Quito will give your lungs a exercise! I imply that by way of oxygen because it’s so excessive, and the quantity of strolling you’ll do!
Spring-like climate could be skilled all 12 months lengthy in Quito, and you may also discover locations like Plaza San Francisco and the La Ronda neighbourhood whilst you’re within the space with ease. Although, it’s at all times higher to discover Quito with a professional information, particularly if its your first time within the metropolis.
Getting peckish? Make sure that to attempt some completely scrumptious humitas or cheese empanadas. My gosh, they’re good.
Learn extra: Greatest cities in South America to go to
13 Greatest Cities In South America To Go to
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