South America, a continent brimming with vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled biodiversity, has become a premier destination for travelers seeking both ecotourism and thrilling adventures. Spanning twelve diverse countries, along with French Guiana and the Falkland Islands, this region offers nearly 7 million square miles of natural wonders. From the depths of the Amazon rainforest to the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains, and the cascading waters of Iguazu Falls to the expansive Pantanal wetlands, South America is a continent that promises endless exploration and unforgettable experiences.
It’s a challenge to encapsulate the sheer diversity and magnificence of South America’s attractions in a single article. Consider this guide your curated selection of the top 20 South America Travel Spots, handpicked to inspire your next adventure.
ARGENTINA
1. Iguazu Falls
Nestled in northern Argentina, sharing a border with Brazil, Iguazu Falls stands as a monumental testament to nature’s power. These awe-inspiring waterfalls are not just among the largest in the world, but a truly immersive spectacle. Imagine a curtain of water stretching 1.7 miles wide, plunging from heights of 197 to 269 feet, distributed across 275 individual falls. With an average flow rate of 62,010 cubic feet per second, the sheer force and volume of water are mesmerizing. Iguazu National Park, a lush subtropical rainforest surrounding the falls, enhances the experience. This UNESCO World Heritage site teems with biodiversity, hosting over 2,000 species of vascular plants and a rich array of wildlife, including tapirs, howler monkeys, and elusive jaguars. A visit to Iguazu Falls is undeniably a bucket-list experience for any South America travel enthusiast.
2. Peninsula Valdes
Peninsula Valdes, located along Argentina’s Atlantic coast, is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its exceptional marine wildlife. It’s undoubtedly one of the best South America travel spots for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those interested in marine mammals. From June to November, Southern right whales arrive to calve in the protected waters, offering phenomenal whale watching opportunities. Orcas are also frequently sighted patrolling the shores, hunting seals and sea lions. Beyond whales and orcas, the peninsula is home to elephant seals, Magellanic penguins, and terrestrial wildlife such as guanacos (Patagonian llamas) and rheas (South American relatives of emus). Peninsula Valdes is a true sanctuary for nature lovers and a highlight of Argentina’s coastal treasures.
3. Perito Moreno Glacier
Perito Moreno Glacier, arguably Patagonia’s most iconic attraction, is a colossal river of ice spanning 121 square miles. What sets this glacier apart is not just its immense size, rising an average of 240 feet above the water, but also its remarkable state of equilibrium – it’s still growing! Located within Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina’s Santa Cruz Province, this natural wonder is named after a 19th-century explorer. Visitors can experience the glacier’s majesty from various perspectives. Observation boardwalks provide safe and close-up views, while boat trips on Lake Argentino offer a breathtaking panorama of the ice walls. The glacier is famous for its dramatic ice calving events, where massive chunks of ice break off with thunderous cracks and plunge into the lake. For the adventurous, ice hiking tours on the glacier itself provide an unforgettable and intimate experience.
4. Tierra del Fuego
Tierra del Fuego, meaning “Land of Fire,” sits at the southernmost tip of South America, offering some of the continent’s most dramatic and pristine landscapes. Ushuaia, its capital city, proudly claims the title “el fin del mundo” – the end of the world – as only Antarctica lies further south. This region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities range from kayaking in Lapataia Bay and hiking or skiing on Mount Castor to venturing out to Cape Horn, the legendary maritime landmark. A popular excursion is a half-day cruise through the Beagle Channel, offering incredible opportunities to spot penguins and a diverse array of marine wildlife. Tierra del Fuego’s rugged beauty and unique location make it an exceptional South America travel spot for those seeking adventure and unparalleled scenery.
BOLIVIA
5. Lake Titicaca
Straddling the border of Bolivia and Peru, Lake Titicaca holds the distinction of being the world’s highest navigable lake, perched at an elevation of 12,338 feet. This vast and serene lake is not only a geographical marvel but also a cradle of ancient cultures. The region has been inhabited by indigenous communities for centuries, making it a prime South America travel spot for cultural immersion. To explore Lake Titicaca, start in the Bolivian town of Copacabana. From there, you can arrange guided tours or hop on a boat to Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) or Isla de la Luna (Island of the Moon), islands steeped in Inca mythology. For an authentic experience, consider a homestay with local families on either island, offering a unique glimpse into their traditions and way of life.
6. Salar de Uyuni
Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, presents an otherworldly landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet. Encompassing approximately 4,000 square miles, this vast expanse is covered in a thick layer of salt, several meters deep. Beyond its surreal beauty, Salar de Uyuni is economically significant, holding over 50% of the world’s lithium reserves. The stark environment supports minimal flora, primarily giant cacti, and sparse fauna, notably flamingos that gather in the lagoons. Key highlights within Salar de Uyuni include Laguna Blanca, named for its white, mineral-rich waters; Laguna Verde, a striking green lagoon colored by magnesium and arsenic (making it poisonous); and Laguna Colorada, a vibrant red lagoon due to algae. Visiting Salar de Uyuni is an unforgettable adventure into one of South America’s most unique and visually stunning destinations.
BRAZIL
7. Brazilian Amazon
The Brazilian Amazon, despite facing deforestation challenges, remains an unparalleled natural wonder and a must-visit South America travel spot for nature enthusiasts. Even with 20% of the rainforest lost in the last 40 years, what remains is still comparable in size to the lower 48 US states and constitutes half of the planet’s tropical forest. Brazil contains about two-thirds of the 3 million square mile Amazon Basin. This region is a biodiversity hotspot, boasting an estimated 16,000 tree species, 2,000 fish species, 1,300 bird species, over 400 mammal species, nearly 400 reptile species, and an astounding 2.5 million insect species. Exploring the Brazilian Amazon is an immersive experience into the planet’s most biodiverse ecosystem. Essential gear includes effective bug repellent to navigate this incredible, insect-rich environment.
8. Pantanal
The Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland, sprawls across 75,000 square miles of southwestern Brazil and eastern Bolivia. This vast and dynamic ecosystem is a premier South America travel spot for wildlife viewing, especially for birdwatchers. During the wet season, approximately 80% of the Pantanal becomes submerged, transforming it into a water wonderland. However, the dry season reveals its true wildlife riches. The region supports around 3,500 plant species, 300 mammal species, and over 1,000 bird species. Keep an eye out for iconic species like the hyacinth macaw, harpy eagles, white-banded tanagers, and the elusive jaguars, which are surprisingly abundant in this habitat. The Pantanal offers an unparalleled wildlife safari experience in South America.
CHILE
9. Chilean Wine Country (Note: Original article had #10, corrected to #9 for sequence)
Chilean Wine Country has emerged as a prominent South America travel spot for wine connoisseurs and scenic landscape lovers. While Chile has a long history of exporting wines to Europe since the 1880s, its rise as a wine tourism destination is more recent. The region benefits from a favorable Mediterranean climate and stunning Andean backdrop, creating ideal conditions for viticulture. Chile’s most renowned wine regions include the Colchagua Valley, celebrated for its Malbec, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, and the Maipo Valley, known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, and Merlot. Visiting Chilean wine country offers a delightful blend of wine tasting experiences amidst picturesque vineyards and rolling hills.
10. Torres del Paine National Park
Torres del Paine National Park, situated in the heart of Chilean Patagonia, offers a remote and breathtaking wilderness experience that is second to none. This South America travel spot is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Hardy hikers will find their challenge in the legendary “W Trek,” a multi-day trail that winds through towering granite formations, including the iconic Paine Massif, alongside stunning blue glacier-fed lakes, and across expansive grasslands dotted with wildflowers. Beyond the landscapes, the park is rich in wildlife, home to foxes, guanacos, majestic Andean condors, and even pumas. Torres del Paine provides an unforgettable Patagonian adventure, combining challenging hikes with spectacular natural beauty.
COLOMBIA
11. Cartagena (Note: Original article had #12, corrected to #11 for sequence)
Cartagena, a UNESCO-protected port city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a captivating South America travel spot, often cited as a favorite city by many travelers. Its allure lies in the walled Old Town, a 16th-century Spanish colonial masterpiece. Within the ancient walls, discover fortresses, brightly colored colonial buildings, charming public squares, and a wealth of historical monuments. Beyond its history, Cartagena offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. For a tranquil escape, the Islas de Rosario (Rosario Islands), a tropical archipelago, are just a short 40-minute boat trip away, offering pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Cartagena seamlessly blends history, culture, and beach relaxation.
12. Tayrona National Park
Tayrona National Park, nestled along Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, east of Barranquilla, is a remote paradise of stunning beaches and lush rainforests, making it a remarkable South America travel spot for nature immersion. Its relative inaccessibility, requiring an hour’s hike to reach accommodations, contributes to its unspoiled charm. Tayrona offers a true escape from the everyday, with no cars within the park’s boundaries. The reward is pristine beaches fringed by rainforest and abundant wildlife, from diverse birdlife and monkeys to even crocodiles. Tayrona National Park is an adventurous retreat into nature’s embrace.
ECUADOR
13. Galapagos Islands (Note: Original article had #14, corrected to #13 for sequence)
The Galapagos Islands, located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, are a legendary South America travel spot and a true nature lover’s dream. This volcanic archipelago is renowned for its unique endemic flora and fauna, which famously inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Designated as the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galapagos remain remarkably preserved, much like they were in Darwin’s era. Exploring the islands reveals a world with minimal human impact and an abundance of incredible wildlife at every turn, including Galapagos tortoises, penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and diverse finch species. The Galapagos Islands offer an unparalleled wildlife encounter and a journey back in evolutionary history.
14. Quito
Quito, Ecuador’s capital city, is perched at an elevation of nearly 9,842 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views in both senses of the word. This historic city, conquered by the Inca and later the Spanish, boasts stunning colonial architecture. A cable car ride takes you even higher, to 13,779 feet, providing panoramic views of Quito and, on clear days, the majestic Cotopaxi volcano. Nearby, the Mitad del Mundo (“Center of the Earth”) monument and museum mark the equator. Quito is a captivating South America travel spot, blending history, culture, and stunning Andean scenery.
PERU
15. Ballestas Islands (Note: Original article had #16, corrected to #15 for sequence)
Ballestas Islands, often nicknamed “the poor man’s Galapagos,” are a wildlife-rich archipelago off the coast of Pisco, Peru. This South America travel spot is teeming with hundreds of thousands of seabirds, including boobies, along with large colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and sometimes dolphins. Daily boat tours depart from the mainland, taking visitors past the “Candelabra,” a mysterious hillside geoglyph of ancient origin. Between June and August, Chilean flamingos can often be spotted in the southern part of the bay, adding to the islands’ avian diversity. Ballestas Islands offer an accessible and impressive wildlife viewing experience, rivaling the Galapagos in terms of bird and marine life abundance.
16. Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is universally recognized as one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders and a quintessential South America travel spot. Built by the Inca Empire in the mid-15th century at the height of their power, this ancient city is perched atop a mountain at 8,000 feet in the Andes. Peru’s most popular tourist attraction draws over 500,000 visitors annually. The remarkable Inca architecture remains largely intact, featuring massive stone walls, ancient temples, and verdant agricultural terraces overlooking a canyon carved by the Urubamba River and the surrounding Andes mountains. Machu Picchu is a testament to Inca ingenuity and a breathtaking journey into history and natural beauty.
17. Peruvian Amazon
The Peruvian Amazon, the world’s fourth-largest rainforest, encompasses approximately 60% of Peru’s landmass. This vast and pristine region is a significant South America travel spot for experiencing unparalleled biodiversity. It’s home to approximately 180 reptile species, 262 amphibian species, 293 mammal species, 806 bird species, and a staggering 2,500 butterfly species. Plant enthusiasts will find over 700 fern species and more than 7,300 flowering plant species. Exploring the Peruvian Amazon is best done by boat, offering an immersive journey into the heart of the rainforest. Small-ship cruises provide an exceptional way to navigate the waterways and discover the region’s incredible wildlife and natural wonders.
18. Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, often overshadowed by Machu Picchu, is a treasure trove of Inca history and ruins, making it a compelling South America travel spot for cultural and historical exploration. While Machu Picchu is famous, the Sacred Valley holds even larger, older, and arguably more significant Inca sites. Start your exploration in Pisac, an ancient agricultural center where an entire mountainside was transformed into terraces. Ollantaytambo boasts impressive stonework and serves as the starting point for the classic Inca Trail hike. Discover the unique circular Moray ruins and Winay Wayna, which resembles a miniature Machu Picchu. The Sacred Valley offers a deeper dive into Inca civilization and its architectural achievements.
URUGUAY
19. Pampas (Note: Original article had #20, corrected to #19 for sequence)
The Uruguayan Pampas, while less known than other ecotourism hotspots, deserve recognition as a unique South America travel spot. These fertile lowlands cover nearly 290,000 square miles, encompassing all of Uruguay and parts of Argentina and Brazil. The temperate climate supports regenerative agriculture and diverse wildlife, including pampas deer, plains viscacha, puma, maned wolf, pampas fox, and a remarkable variety of bird species. The Pampas offer a different South American landscape, characterized by rolling grasslands and open skies, ideal for wildlife viewing and experiencing rural South American life.
Conclusion:
South America’s diverse landscapes and rich cultures offer an unparalleled array of travel experiences. From the towering Andes to the Amazon rainforest, from ancient ruins to vibrant cities, these top 20 South America travel spots represent just a glimpse of the continent’s vast treasures. Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or natural beauty, South America promises an unforgettable journey. Explore these destinations and discover the magic of this incredible continent for yourself.
