11 Best Places to Visit in South America
If you’re contemplating a visit to South America you might be asking yourself: where do I start? Luckily, you’ve come to the right place! To help you decide on the ultimate vacation spot, at Civitatis we’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in South America.
From Incan ruins to the towering Andes Mountains, and Patagonian glaciers to the Atacama Desert, South America is a continent filled to the brim with must-see sites. Keep on reading to find your next destination and start planning!
Best Places in South America to Visit
- Cuzco and Machu Picchu, Peru
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Patagonia, Argentina and Chile
- Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
- San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
- Uyuni, Bolivia
- Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
- Santiago, Chile
- San Andres, Colombia
- Mendoza, Argentina
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
1. Explore Cuzco and Machu Picchu in Peru
Peru is home to one of the original Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu. Practically synonymous with South America, its main access point is through the city of Cuzco making it an ideal destination for any trip.
Cuzco, the former capital of the Incan Empire is drenched in South American history that extends far past country borders and conquistadores. Cuzco is even considered the oldest inhabited city of all the Americas!
Visiting Cuzco is an experience rich in history, culture, adventure, gastronomy, and, above all, breathtaking natural landscapes. With so much to offer, of course, we had to put Cuzco on our list of best places in South America to visit.
Arriving in the Sacred City, why not opt for a free tour of the city to get familiar with the historic downtown area? You’ll be amazed as you stroll past places like Plaza de Armas and the Mercado de San Pedro.
Or if you want to jump straight into the archeological richness of Cuzco, check out a guided tour of the city and its ruins. This Andean town isn’t only a history lover’s dream, but also the launch point for many adventure and nature tours. We’ve listed out a few of our favorites here:
- Historical travelers: Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour
- Adventure travelers: Humantay Lake Hike
- Mountain climbers: Rainbow Mountain Hike
- Cultural travelers: Moray Ruins & Maras Salt Mines Tour
- For backpackers: Ausangate 7 Lagoons Hiking Excursion
And of course, a visit to Cuzco would not be complete without a visit to the magical Machu Picchu. This world-renowned archeological site offers stunning views steeped in culture. Get to know the Lost City of the Incas alongside a knowledgeable guide on this day trip to Machu Picchu, admissions included!
2. Immerse Yourself in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a cultural metropolis that combines vibrant culture with European architecture, unbeatable cuisine, and of course, the passionate tango. The city boasts a wide variety of things to do that captivate each visitor passing through.
In the city center, you’ll see the iconic Pink House, the seat of the Argentine Presidency, the towering Obelisk, the famous Cafe Tortoni, and the luxurious Galerias Pacifico. To see them and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s past, opt for this free walking tour of Buenos Aires.
La Recoleta and Palermo are two neighborhoods that attract many visitors as well, thanks to their must-see sites. Here, you’ll find Eva Peron’s tomb, the Floralis Genérica, and the Rosedal.
Let’s not forget La Boca neighborhood, an absolute must-visit on any trip to Buenos Aires. Here, sits the famous Caminito with its vibrant, colorful houses, cobble-stoned streets, and La Bombonera stadium, home to the Boca Juniors soccer team. On this private tour of Buenos Aires, you’ll be able to visit all these places with an exclusive guide just for you!
3. Dig into Patagonia, between Argentina and Chile
Patagonia is a destination that has attracted visitors from all over the world thanks to its impressive landscapes, diverse outdoor activities, and a feeling of being in one of the last great wild spaces on the planet.
Without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in South America for nature and adventure seekers. Patagonia spreads out over Chile and Argentina, making it a place full of endless discoveries. Some of our favorites are:
Los Glacieres National Park
Los Glacieres National Park, located in the Santa Cruz province of Argentina, is the country’s largest national park. Founded in 1937 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, the park is well known for its glacial activity.
Have you ever heard ice break off a glacier? The Perito Moreno glacier is one of the park’s main attractions, spanning over 3 miles wide. Towering about 200 feet over Argentino Lake, the glacier attracts visitors hoping to witness the jaw-dropping ice breaks. The sound alone is breathtaking!
The park also plays a crucial role in environmental conservation, providing essential information about climate change and endemic species. It’s easy to see why this area came under the protection of UNESCO!
Get up close and personal with the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Los Glacieres National Park with a boat trip excursion. Or for adventure-seeking travelers, hike the glacier instead!
Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche is a famous city in Argentinian Patagonia, located in the Lagos Andinos region. The town’s iconic alpine landscapes, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage make it stand out as one of the prettiest places to visit in South America.
If you love being in the mountains, check out a day trip to Cerro Catedral. See the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, and spend a day on the snowy peaks. During you’re trip, don’t miss out on a visit to Nahuel Huapi Lake for more untamed beauty.
But that’s not all! While Bariloche is known for its natural beauty, it also shines for its architecture. Throughout the city, you’ll find buildings with charming decorative elements. Often, they reflect a European influence, particularly the Alpine Swiss style.
To enjoy these sites and learn more about the history behind the city’s architecture, check out this tour of Bariloche’s viewpoints.
Ushuaia
Welcome to the End of the World! The world’s southernmost city is an absolute must on any list of South America’s best places to visit. Ushuaia combines stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich culture, against the perfect backdrop of Tierra del Fuego. The snow-covered mountains and towering glaciers attract travelers each year. Why not see it for yourself with a day trip to Tierra del Fuego National Park?
In the winter months, June through August, (southern hemisphere folks don’t forget), there are still plenty of fun outdoor activities! Things like skiing, snowboarding, and snow-shoeing are perfect for a breath of fresh air. But if you’re looking for a slightly calmer route, but still with the best natural adventure, check out a yacht cruise around Beagle Canal.
Then again, if you’ve come all the way to the End of the World, why not go all in and spend a day having fun in the snow in Estancia La Carmen? Enjoy three different snow activities and meet some local four-legged friends!
4. Uncover the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Ecuador is another paradise just waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for your next destination full of natural wildlife, this is it. The Galapagos Islands, about 600 miles off the Ecuadorian coast, is famous for its incredibly unique biodiversity.
Fun fact: renowned scientist, Charles Darwin, developed his natural selection theory in the Galapagos!
Made up of 13 main islands and various smaller ones, the Galapagos offers an unforgettable experience for any visitor. Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and biology enthusiasts alike can enjoy a trip to this unique destination.
If you find yourself in the islands, check out a boat tour around Santa Cruz Island. If you’re on a time crunch, opt for this 8-day cruise through the islands, making sure you don’t miss a thing! Check out all the activities available in the Galapagos, and fill your trip with new experiences.
5. Marvel at San Pedro de Atacama in Chile
If you like sprawling natural landscapes, the city of San Pedro de Atacama is sure to be the best place for you to visit in South America. From San Pedro you can access the Atacama Desert, one of the largest in the world. Spanning over 40,000 square miles, stretching along the Pacific Coast, this panoramic views here are unlike any you’ve seen before.
Our top recommendation for visiting this region is a day trip to Moon Valley. You’ll feel like you’re in outer space as you soak up untouched landscapes filled with lunar-esque rock formations.
If you’re looking for a more interactive landscape experience, check out a day trip to the Tatio Geysers. Walk across the geyser field for a once-in-a-liftetime experience in Chile’s most important geothermal activity site!
Still can’t get enough of these impressive landscapes? Consider a day trip to Piedra Rojas in Chile’s altiplano, where you can admire the stunning volcanic landscape.
Aside from panoramic landscapes, did you know the Atacama Desert is also one of the best places in the world for stargazing? Thanks to the arid landscape, elevated geographical location, and minimal amounts of light pollution the Atacama Desert has one of the clearest night skies out there.
We can’t recommend stargazing in the Atacama Desert enough, so be sure to enjoy some stellar sightseeing on your visit to Chile.
6. Uyuni, Bolivia
Uyuni is best known for having the largest salt flats in the world, the Uyuni Salt Flats. You can find them along the Andes mountain range, having formed from evaporated lakes dating back to Prehistoric times. The landscapes here are truly one of a kind and attract visitors from all corners of the Earth.
During the rainy season, December to March, a thin layer of water pools on top of the salt flats creating a natural reflecting pool. Like magic, this site turns into a gigantic mirror, where you can take some mind-bending photos!
The Uyuni Salt Flats have more to offer than just incredible panoramic views. When you book a trip to visit the flats, you can also enjoy more unique experiences. In Uyuni, there are hotels built entirely of salt blocks, and museums exhibiting art pieces made of salt.
An added layer of fun: as you make your way to the salt flats, you’ll pass by the Train Cemetery. This former train depot, now abandoned, stands as a reminder of Bolivia’s history and industrial growth. It’s a fascinating contrast with the salt flats themselves which are empty of life.
Experience these unique landscapes on a day trip to the Uyuni Salt Flats, or enjoy a private excursion.
7. Visit Vibrant Cartagena de Indias in Colombia
Also on our list of the best places to visit in South America is Cartagena de Indias, a vibrant Colombian city. Famous for its Old Town, known as the Walled City, this little pocket of the city is lined with colorful houses and cobble-stoned streets.
Experience the vibrant colonial-style streets for yourself with a guided tour of Cartagena.
While the city is super appealing for history buffs, Cartagena also offers relaxing beachscapes and natural beauty.
Lay out and soak up the Colombian sun on a day trip Playa Blanca or Islas del Rosario for a tranquil beach day. But if the hustle and bustle of the city is more your vibe, be sure to check out Bocagrande, which combines the busy city energy with palm tree-lined beachscapes.
8. Experience Santiago, the Chilean Capital
The Chilean capital of Santiago is located right at the foot of the Andes mountain range, making it another one of the best places to visit in South America. Another cultural hub, the capital offers visitors plenty of things to do that combine history, cuisine, and nature, all with the perfect backdrop of the jaw-dropping Andes mountain range.
Check out a free tour of Santiago once you arrive, to get your feet wet after arriving at the capital and see its top attractions. Learn about the city’s history alongside a friendly local guide.
Once you’ve gotten a lay of the land, be sure to head over to San Cristobal Hill as well. This famous hill has plenty of things to see and do like visiting the Immaculate Conception sanctuary, the Japanese Garden, and the Zoo. Make the most of your time and opt for this San Cristobal day trip that includes a day pass to the funicular, buses, and cable car!
The Chilean capital is also renowned for its excellent wine culture. Thanks to the vineyard locations, along the nutrient-rich base of the Andes Mountains, the region is known for producing high-quality wines. Be sure to enjoy a glass during your visit.
And if you’re looking for a little adventure in Santiago, the city’s also got you covered. Santiago is also considered a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding.
9. Swim in Paradies in San Andres, Colombia
Did you know South America also has Caribbean destinations? Colombia’s northern coast is a tropical paradise, but the dreamy island of San Andres makes for one of the best places to visit.
Some 400 miles off the coast of Colombia lies an island known for incredibly vibrant turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and rich marine biodiversity. The best part? It’s a paradise all year round! San Andres’ tropical climate welcomes visitors, with its refreshing waters and balmy temperatures. Experience it for yourself on a boat ride to San Andres!
San Andres is more than just a tropical paradise, too. While you should definitely take the time to relax on the white sand beaches, don’t miss out on the wonders just beneath the water’s surface! Naturally, San Andres is an ideal diving destination, so be sure to put on your goggles and explore with a diving activity.
10. Sip on Wine in Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is easily one of the most romantic destinations in South America. With picturesque vineyards dotted along the base of the Andes Mountains, the region produces top-quality wines.
One variety you’re surely familiar with is Malbec. Why not indulge in a glass and taste several other varieties on a wine-tasting tour in Mendoza?
Another thing that makes Mendoza one of the best places to visit in South America is its excellent cuisine! Combining traditional Argentinian dishes with local influences makes Mendoza a top destination for foodies.
Some of our favorites are a traditional Argentinian barbecue with roasted meats and plenty of locally produced wine. Are you hungry yet? Experience a barbecue firsthand on your trip to Mendoza and feel like a local!
11. Relax in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Ah, Rio de Janeiro. This internationally renowned city stands out for so many different reasons, from jaw-dropping landscapes to pristine beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema. The city has no shortage of things to discover, including its rich history and cultural legacy, which attract visitors year after year.
Any visit to Rio de Janeiro wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the cultural icon, Christ the Redeemer, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Combine this with a climb up Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of the city on a tour of Rio, complete with entry tickets!
What else is there to do in Rio you might ask? Plenty! Marvel at the colonial-style neighborhood of Santa Teresa on a walking tour and wind through its cobble-stoned streets.
If you’re looking to take an even deeper dive into the city’s history, why not check out a free tour of Rio’s historic downtown district? The neighborhood is famous for its iconic arches and vibrant nightlife. Be sure to stick around and catch some choro or samba music, often playing at the bars and clubs in the area.
Are you thinking about visiting Rio during its Carnaval celebrations? If so, we don’t blame you, it’s one of the best parties in the world! Remember to check the festival dates before booking anything, as the holiday takes place in February or March depending on the year.
South America is just full of exciting destinations that can satisfy any traveler. We hope this list has helped narrow down some of the options out there. Explore unforgettable activities with Civitatis, guaranteed to fill your trip with memories that will last a lifetime!
