visit in South America is home to many breathtaking landscapes: Any activity on this continent becomes more exciting—and photogenic—thanks to all-encompassing global wonders like the Amazon and the Andes. When you can walk across a glacier in Los Glaciares National Park, there’s no need to go on a generic walk. Soak up rays in Ipanema or Copacabana instead of some boring old beach. Instead of going on a boring vacation at a lake, why not go to the world’s highest navigable body of water?
As one might expect, the twelve nations that makeup South America cover a wide range of terrain. South America has many breathtaking destinations, from vibrant Colombian villages to some of Peru’s most famous ruins.
Best places to visit in South America:
The Amazon rainforest
Visit in South America: The Amazon is practically a byword for the region, covering about 40% of South America and extending into eight of the continent’s twelve nations. The eponymous river and its environs are vital to the region’s ecology, which supports over 1,300 bird species and forty thousand plant species. To make the most of your time here, consider booking a river cruise or a stay at a secluded eco-lodge.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Visit in South America: You’ve probably seen images of Salar de Uyuni taken during the rainy season. The enormous salt flat transforms into a photographer’s dreamscape as rain falls on it. Even when it’s dry, the flat is worth a visit since it looks like a flat sheet of salt tiles—heptagonal in shape.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Visit in South America: The breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned beaches of Rio de Janeiro are why the city is considered one of the most picturesque in South America and, by extension, the world. While the sounds of the city hum in the background, there’s nothing quite like relaxing on the sands of Ipanema or Copacabana under the shade of the famous Sugarloaf Mountain.
Guatapé, Colombia
Visit in South America: El Peñol, an adjacent inselberg, offers breathtaking vistas and the colourful streets of this small Andean town just two hours west of Medellín. The 659-step ascent to the summit of the iconic rock is challenging, but the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and reservoir make the effort worthwhile.
Baños, Ecuador
Visit in South America: Baños is a little community nestled in the shadow of an active volcano, encircled by lush woods, waterfalls, and the Amazon Basin. It’s hard to imagine a town with a more picturesque setting. Perhaps Baños’s most recognizable feature is “the swing at the end of the world,” a rope swing that has become popular on Instagram and lives up to its moniker.
Laguna Colorada, Bolivia
Visit in South America: The salt lake in the Andes’ shadow is famous for its reddish-purple waters, which are caused by algae that grow in sweltering conditions. Between December and April, when the flamingos are in full breeding plumage and the lake is at its fullest, the birds and the lake make for stunning photo opportunities. The lake will be at its most vibrant red after sunset, so plan accordingly.
Rapa Nui, Chile
Visit in South America: Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is a mysterious volcanic island located around 2,300 miles off the coast of Chile. The island is home to white sand beaches, 900 moai (statues that defy logic), and crater lakes. Located on Rapa Nui’s western shore, the newly renamed Nayara Hangaroa is an ideal shop spot. The eco-resort allows guests to rent an ATV and freely explore famous sites, such as the Ranu Kau crater and the Orongo ceremonial hamlet, at their own pace.
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Visit in South America: Not surprisingly, this group of islands off Brazil’s northeast coast is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. Maybe it’s 220 miles from the mainland, but the islands’ volcanic rock formations and pristine waters are unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
Valle de Cocora, Colombia
Visit in South America: If you seek the location of the tallest palm trees (Palma de cera) on Earth, your search can end at the Cocora Valley of Colombia. Against the background of misty green hills and rocky mountains, these slender trees appear even more astonishing, seven hours west of Bogotá.
Cotopaxi, Ecuador
Visit in South America: In the Andes, not far from Quito, stands Cotopaxi, one of the world’s tallest active volcanoes. The glacier-covered peak can be climbed by daring tourists on organized hikes, but viewing the mountain from the Altiplano is just as rewarding.
Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil
Visit in South America: Iguazú Falls, located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, is a visually and aurally breathtaking spectacle that ranks among the world’s most impressive. You may see the network of over 200 cascades (at heights of about 270 feet) from the catwalks and walkways around the area, but our favourite way to see it is from a more daring vantage point—sailing right beneath the thrilling, high-pressure falls on an inflatable raft from the Iguazú Jungle.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
Visit in South America: This national park, packed with dunes and around the size of Rhode Island, appears like a planet from a faraway imagination. During the beginning of June, the landscape takes on a breathtaking quality as the spaces between the 100-foot dunes are filled with crystal-clear water, giving the impression of a natural optical illusion. How about a sandy lake instead of a desert? In any case, it’s stunning.
Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
Visit in South America: Located in Los Glaciares National Park, this enormous ice wall stretches over 100 square miles and stands at about 200 feet, making it a natural wonder. The glacier exemplifies the pristine nature, thrilling outdoor activities (ice hiking is the best!), and expansive views that give the impression of being at the planet’s very edge, making the Patagonia region so remarkable.
Province of Mendoza, Argentina
Visit in South America: The picturesque Mendoza area in Argentina is well-known among severe Malbec drinkers for producing over half of the nation’s wine. The province has several vineyards, fine dining establishments, and luxurious hotels. Enjoy a glass of wine while taking in breathtaking views of the Andes at Mendoza’s Uco Valley, around one hour south of the capital city.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Visit in South America: Torres del Paine is among the most breathtaking natural attractions in the Southern Hemisphere, with its granite columns, blue lakes, and steppes dotted with grazing guanacos. From any vantage point, the park’s snow-capped mountains and large glaciers are stunning, but our favourite is to swim in Tierra Patagonia’s indoor pool.
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