The continent of South America is as huge as it’s diverse. From cities in South America like Rio de Janeiro to the fantastic thing about Argentinian Patagonia, South America has a vacation spot to go well with each style. Nonetheless, with so many locations, it may be completely bamboozling to seek out the best place to begin your journey, particularly as a few of 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 explanation we maintain going again. Nonetheless, one phrase of recommendation: if it’s your first time visiting South America, attempt to not get overwhelmed with all the alternatives—which may 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 probably the most superb time visiting South America.
1.) Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is an unimaginable metropolis and simply among the finest locations in South America to discover in case you’re exploring wider Argentina. As you’d anticipate, it’s obtained the hustle and bustle of any international metropolis, nevertheless it additionally has pockets of actually cool and enjoyable locations to go to.
As soon as right here, you should take a look at San Telmo Marketplace for the meals. We’ve been right here many instances, and the stalls and merchants are unimaginable. I cherished 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 considered one of South America’s most grand settings.
Lastly, don’t overlook concerning the Buenos Aires milongas or tango halls, that are genuine and thrilling locations for an evening out. In case you assume you’re not up for this, you possibly can simply go for a tango present, which is so thrilling for an evening out.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina
2.) Cusco, Peru
Most likely considered one of Peru’s hottest cities to go to, Cusco is charming and so historic to spend a day exploring. Now, in plenty of methods, Cusco acts as a gateway to the Inca Path or for taking the practice to Machu Picchu; nevertheless it’s additionally a vacation spot in its personal proper.
In case you’re already visiting Macchu Picchu, I’d suggest staying in Cusco for at the least 4 days. Not simply to acclimatise to the excessive altitude, however you’ve additionally obtained heaps of Inca websites, simply exterior the town limits.
You’ll be able to see Cusco’s historic centre and even use the town as a jumping-off level to discover locations like Rainbow Mountain and even take the Andean Explorer to Lake Titicaca. We had one of the 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 historical historical past. It’s superb.
Learn extra: What’s it like to go to Cusco
3.) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Probably the most spectacular and the preferred 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 when you’re right here.
As soon as right here, you should go to Christ the Redeemer’s 30-metre statue, with one of the best views round sundown. That being stated, it will also 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, probably the most well-known is Copacabana Seashore.
Nonetheless, there are hundreds extra, like Ipanema Seashore and Prainha Seashore, to call just a few.
As with every international metropolis, it’s value remembering security. By no means put on flashy jewelry or watches or head down darkish alleys. It’s the same old stuff, I do know, however you do must be further vigilant in Rio de Janeiro, as muggings may be doable.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do in Rio de Janeiro
4.) Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia
Nestled within the southwest of Bolivia, the Uyuni Salt Flat is well among the finest locations in South America that’s completely distinctive. You see, Uyuni Salt Flat is without doubt one of the largest salt flats in your entire world, and it’s gorgeous to see.
The entire panorama round Uyuni Salt Flat appears like a completely totally different planet, although it did look very totally different way back. You see, the Uyuni Salt Flat was fashioned when a extremely previous lake evaporated and at last disappeared. It left this gorgeous panorama.
It’s the proper addition to any South American journey itinerary and very easy to go to in case you’re already visiting La Paz in Bolivia and even in Peru (as they’re neighbouring international locations).
Learn extra: Finest locations to go to in Bolivia
5.) Medellin, Colombia
Medellin has had one thing of a resurgence in recent times, and with good motive, it’s stunning. Now, at one level, not too far within the distant previous, Medellin was extraordinarily harmful and was identified the world over for its cartels and drug lords working within the space.
Though it’s nonetheless a bit tough across the edges (and you must all the time journey safely), Medellin is an unimaginable place in South America to go to in case you’re already in Colombia. In reality, the entire nation of Colombia has so many locations you possibly can’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 an excellent really feel for the town.
Learn extra: Finest locations in Colombia to go to
6.) Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is fingers down among the finest locations in South America to go to. The ruined Inca citadel is 1000’s of years previous and is without doubt one of the world’s seven wonders.
We spent a few 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 may well 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 stated, 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 effectively earlier than you arrive; tickets to Machu Picchu promote out quick.
Learn extra: How you can go to Machu Picchu in Peru
7.) Montevideo, Uruguay
Not too removed from Buenos Aires in Argentina, Montevideo may be thought of a hidden gem in South America. Nicely, clearly, it’s not hidden per se; it’s extra forgotten in lieu of larger cities in South America to go to.
Now, I undoubtedly really feel like Montevideo is without doubt one of the greatest locations in South America to go to in case you’re searching for a barely cheaper possibility in comparison with locations like Rio. After arriving in Montevideo, ensure to go to the gorgeous Solis Theatre and stroll by means of Palacio Salvo.
Not solely that, the town is such a foodie vacation spot, and the Port Market and Agrícola de Montevideo Market are each so scrumptious.
Learn extra: Finest 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 among the finest locations in South America to discover in case you love the good outdoor and journey journey.
Recognized for its geological exercise and huge ice reserves, Patagonia is a spot value visiting in case you love mountain climbing. You’ll get to discover locations just like the unimaginable Perito Moreno Glacier.
Within the months between November and March, enormous ice blocks soften and break off. Although this occurs all year long, however we all the time suggest visiting throughout these summer time months to have one of the 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 among the finest locations in South America to go to in case you’re travelling by means 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 very popular and humid within the top of summer time. The entire space is lush, inexperienced and fairly moist (as you possibly can think about) – so ensure you’re ready for that.
Additionally, don’t overlook about mosquitos. They love the realm and are sometimes within the shallow, nonetheless swimming pools in and round Iguazu Falls. You’ll go away with heaps of bites in case you’re something like me.
10.) Santiago, Chile
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is effectively value visiting for just a few days. Like many South American cities, it may well act as a gateway to discover the broader Chile.
When you’ve arrived in Santiago, ensure to see the gorgeous views from Sky Costanera. You get probably the most beautiful vistas of the town, and it’s gorgeous. Oh, and make sure to head to the Museum of Chile, Precolombian Artwork. We cherished our go to, and you’ll discover 1000’s of years of historical past in a single place.
Learn extra: Finest 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 remember it’s over 300 km from the coast of Brazil itself, however Fernando de Noronha is without doubt 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 effectively upfront. It’s not the place in South America the place you possibly can simply rock up and ‘wing it’.
12.) Valparaiso, Chile
Each are a bit chaotic however completely great. Valparaiso is without doubt one of the greatest locations in South America to go to as you journey by means of Chile. It’s completely historic and stuffed with unimaginable streets, particularly across the clifftop.
As soon as right here, ensure to go to La Sebastiana Museo de Pablo Neruda and discover Baburizza Palace and the hill space of Cerro Alegre. Nonetheless, Valparaiso is stuffed with hills at each flip. Additionally, did I point out that this metropolis is most well-known for its artwork? No. Nicely, lots of the winding historic streets are adorned – it’s excellent in case you love road artwork.
Oh, and a heads up on security: as with most South American cities, it’s essential to have your wits about you right here. If uncertain of the realm, go round with a certified 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 the town as you go to. The aerial cable automotive system can also be value trying out.
La Paz can also be among the finest cities within the area, so ensure you probe for just a few days when seeing the highest spots in Bolivia.
Learn extra: Finest locations to go to in Bolivia
14.) Mendoza, Argentina
Argentian wine nation—my gosh, I cherished Mendoza. A fast two-hour flight from Buenos Aires will get you to the foothills of the Andes and the religious residence of Malbec. Mendoza is well among the finest locations in South America to go to in case you love wines. The crimson wine selection, Malbec, is understood the world over and is scrumptious right here.
We spent 5-6 days travelling by means of Mendoza and cherished each second of it. Simply ensure to present your self sufficient time to go to just a few wineries and vineyards when you’re right here. It’s far more of a slower-paced area to journey round, excellent in case you’ve had a chaotic and busy few days in Buenos Aires.
15.) Quito, Ecuador
Thought-about the best capital metropolis on this 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 may be skilled all 12 months lengthy in Quito, and you may also discover locations like Plaza San Francisco and the La Ronda neighbourhood when you’re within the space with ease. Although, it’s all the time higher to discover Quito with a certified information, particularly if its your first time within the metropolis.
Getting peckish? Make certain to attempt some completely scrumptious humitas or cheese empanadas. My gosh, they’re good.
Learn extra: Finest cities in South America to go to
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