What to explore in South America? 10 BEST places to visit

South America, which includes 12 countries along with French Guiana and the Falkland Islands, has become a top destination for ecotourism and adventure travel over the years. With nearly 7 million miles of breathtaking Amazon rainforests, Andean peaks, vast wetlands, white-sand beaches, and intriguing ancient ruins, this continent offers a mixture of natural majesty and captivating heritage. Explore the top destinations to visit in South America for an unforgettable trip!

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan city perched high in the Andes, is one of the world’s most iconic archaeological marvels. Built around 1450 AD, it symbolizes the Incan Empire. Machu Picchu was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

Machu Picchu stands as a testimony to the creativity and ingenuity of the Incas

Few places on Earth combine natural beauty and historical allure so powerfully as to captivate visitors instantly, but Machu Picchu is among them. Whether you visit this site in the morning or afternoon, rain or shine, the sight of its stone temples and endless terraces surrounded by lush granite mountains is always awe-inspiring.

Amazon Rainforest – one of the best places to see wildlife in South America

Covering about 40% of South America and spanning eight countries across 6.7 million square kilometers, the Amazon is an extraordinary ecosystem. As the world’s largest rainforest, it is thought to be home to 10% of known species on Earth. The mighty Amazon River, stretching from the Peruvian Andes to Brazil’s Atlantic coast, sustains everything.

The Amazon Rainforest is thought to be home to 10% of known species on Earth

A visit to the Amazon rainforest is a top bucket-list experience when traveling to South Africa. Due to its vast size, choosing the best country to explore can be challenging. However, Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador are among the best options. These gateway cities offer a range of options for booking excursions, cruises, and lodges.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is one of South America’s most diverse cities. Often called the “Paris of South America,” it beautifully blends European sophistication with South American warmth. Its rich architectural and cultural history, vibrant arts scene, modern creativity, lively nightlife, unique traditions, expansive parks, and friendly locals make it one of the world’s most dynamic capitals.

Start your tour by walking from the historic main square to the iconic obelisk, stopping at a classic café along the way. Wander through Caminito to admire the colorful buildings and murals of La Boca. Feel the excitement of a match at South America’s largest soccer stadium. Explore the vintage stalls at San Telmo Market and sample delicious food from the vendors. See dancers performing tango in the streets, and so much more!

Buenos Aires – “Paris of South America”

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Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands, located about 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast, remained a well-kept natural secret for millions of years. Today, its rich biodiversity attracts over 100,000 visitors annually to these remote islands that were totally unknown to the world until 1535. 

With little to no human influence, the islands’ plants, animals, and surrounding marine life thrived, evolving into unique species that cannot be found anywhere else. Additionally, many visitors are also beckoned by the islands’ stunning beaches, making the Galápagos a popular honeymoon destination.

Sea lions on Galápagos Islands

Cartagena de Indias, Colombia

Cartagena de Indias, commonly known as Cartagena, is a historic city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. The city was founded in 1533 and is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and beautifully well-preserved colonial architecture.

Visitors can dive into Cartagena’s Afro-Colombian culture, explore vibrant street art, enjoy salsa dancing, and indulge in delicious cuisine. Its coastal location near the Caribbean Sea offers easy access to the Rosario Islands, a great place to relax and unwind. With its unique mix of historic charm, cultural vibrancy, and seaside beauty, Cartagena is a must-visit for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.

The Palenqueras sell fruits on the streets of Cartagena

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia – an incredible photographic spot in South America

Salar de Uyuni is one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders in Bolivia. Spanning over 10,000 square kilometers, it is the largest salt flat on Earth, offering mesmerizing landscapes that cannot be found anywhere else. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Salar de Uyuni promises unforgettable moments and awe-inspiring beauty.

Explore the scenic islands dotted with giant cacti, and deserts with unique geological formations, and watch vibrant flamingos dancing in colorful lagoons. Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking scenery of the endless white salt plains meeting the sky during the dry season and immerse yourself in the mirror-like reflections that fade away the limits between the land and the sky.

Salar de Uyuni during rainy season

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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Golden beaches, lush rainforests, and towering granite mountains blend in Rio de Janeiro, creating one of the world’s most stunning urban landscapes. Every day is a party in Rio, with visitors flocking year-round for its white-sand beaches, energetic nightlife, and the legendary five-day Carnival extravaganza held each February or March.

Rio de Janeiro offers a wide range of activities for visitors to explore. You can admire the views from the Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountains or take a cruise on Guanabara Bay. For a thrilling perspective, they can take a flightseeing tour to view Rio’s iconic landmarks from above, including the famous beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana and the Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado Mountain. Additionally, beach volleyball games, samba dancing, and the striking scenery of tropical mountains are among the highlights you should not miss.

The panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro

Iguazu Falls, Argentina – one of South America’s most awe-inspiring natural sights

Another remarkable South American attraction is Iguazu Falls, nestled on the border between Argentina and Brazil. Here, about ten miles before joining the Paraná River, the Iguazu River winds through the forest, then plunges over rugged terrain into a semicircle of 247 cascading waterfalls that roar into the gorge below.

Just above the falls, the river narrows to a quarter of its usual width, intensifying the water’s force. Some of these cascades are over 330 feet high, stretching nearly 1.85 miles—making it impossible to view them all at once. The sheer power, sound, and presence of Iguazu Falls can be experienced from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides. It is highly recommended to visit both as each side offers unique perspectives and views.

Iguazu Falls – one of South America’s most awe-inspiring natural sights

Lake Titicaca, between Bolivia & Peru

Lake Titicaca is a breathtaking natural wonder located on the border between Peru and Bolivia. Known as the world’s largest navigable lake, it captivates visitors with its deep blue waters, unique culture, and rich history. Here you can immerse yourself in the community’s heritage and learn about ancient traditions passed down through generations.

For nature enthusiasts, Lake Titicaca’s scenic beauty is unmissable. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a picturesque landscape. You will find a range of outdoor activities, from boat tours and kayaking to hiking and even spending a night by the lake under the stars, making it a magical place to visit. 

Boat trip on Lake Titicaca – the second largest lake of South America

Patagonia, between Argentina & Chile

Patagonia is a sprawling region across southern Chile and Argentina, filled with towering mountains, blue-hued glaciers, emerald lakes, rushing rivers, sub-polar forests, and ice-sculpted fjords. 

In Chile, Patagonia lies within the Chilean Magellanic and Antarctic Region. On this Pacific side, striking mountains, lakes, and glaciers dominate the landscape. On the Argentine side, Patagonia is also called the Patagonian region, where the terrain shifts to arid steppes, prairies, and deserts, creating a stark contrast with its Chilean counterpart. 

Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia

The Patagonian Steppe in Argentina

An exception is the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, the largest in Patagonia, located near El Calafate, Argentina. Combining both regions in a trip offers a complete Patagonia adventure, you can opt to start in Santiago and finish in Buenos Aires, or vice versa.

Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina

South America attracts visitors with its incredible diversity, vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history. At AVG Travels, we offer tours designed to help you explore this continent with ease. Our curated packages include round-trip flights, premium hotels, English-speaking local guides, and up to 5 payment instalments for trips over $5,000. 

>>>> Check out our South America tours here