South America
About South America
South America is a region of breathtaking contrasts, offering everything from the Amazon rainforest’s lush biodiversity to the snow-capped peaks of the Andes. Visitors are drawn to its natural wonders—whether trekking to Machu Picchu in Peru, standing before the thundering Iguazu Falls on the Brazil-Argentina border, or sailing through the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. The continent’s landscapes are unmatched, making it a dream for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and photographers alike.
Culturally, South America is alive with rhythm, color, and passion. Each country showcases its own traditions—from the tango in Argentina and samba in Brazil to indigenous festivals in Bolivia and Peru. Food lovers will discover a paradise of flavors, with fresh ceviche on the Peruvian coast, juicy Argentine steaks, and Colombian coffee considered some of the best in the world. The warmth of the people adds another layer of richness to every travel experience, making visitors feel truly welcome.
Affordability also makes South America an attractive destination for travelers. Compared to many parts of Europe or North America, costs are often lower, giving visitors more opportunities to extend their trip and experience the variety of countries within the region. Whether you’re backpacking on a budget or looking for luxury escapes, South America offers unforgettable journeys at great value.
Countries to explore in South America
Argentina
Argentina is a land of breathtaking contrasts, stretching from the glaciers of Patagonia to the subtropical jungles of Iguazú. Few countries can match its diversity of landscapes and experiences—majes...
Brazil
Brazil is a country that bursts with life, energy, and color. As the largest country in South America, it offers an astonishing variety of landscapes—from the Amazon rainforest to golden beaches, vibr...
Chile
Chile is a land of breathtaking contrasts, stretching from the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the glacier-carved fjords of Patagonia in the south. This long and narrow country offers travelers a...
Colombia
Colombia is one of South America’s most vibrant and diverse countries, where tropical beaches, lush coffee plantations, colonial cities, and dramatic mountains all come together. Once considered a hid...
Peru
Peru is a country where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. From the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu high in the Andes to the colonial charm of cities like Cusco and Ar...
Destinations to explore in South America
Iguazú Falls, Brazil
Shared with Argentina, Iguazú Falls is one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfall systems. On the Brazilian side, visitors enjoy sweeping panoramic views of over 250 cascades crashing i...
Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Located on the Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Park is where jungle meets pristine beaches. Palm-fringed coves and turquoise waters make it one of Colombia’s most beautiful natural areas. Visitor...
Valparaíso, Chile
Valparaíso is a coastal gem and UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its colorful hillside houses, bohemian culture, and winding funiculars. Artists and poets, including Pablo Neruda, found inspirat...
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
One of the most iconic destinations in South America, Torres del Paine National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Towering granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and glaciers make for jaw-drop...
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is the driest place on Earth, yet full of life and breathtaking landscapes. Travelers flock to San Pedro de Atacama, the gateway to surreal salt flats, geysers, and flamingo-filled...
Machu Picchu, Peru
Visiting Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers, and it lives up to every expectation. Perched high in the Andes, this Incan citadel offers panoramic views of jagged peaks and lush valleys. The st...
Santiago, Chile
Santiago, Chile’s bustling capital, sits at the foot of the Andes and offers a perfect mix of cosmopolitan life and natural beauty. The city’s skyline, dominated by the Costanera Tower, blends with sn...
Huacachina, Peru
Tucked away in the Ica Desert, Huacachina is a tiny oasis that feels like something out of a dream. Surrounded by towering golden sand dunes, this palm-fringed lagoon is a stark and stunning contrast...
Arequipa, Peru
Arequipa, often called the “White City” for its volcanic stone architecture, is a gem of southern Peru. Its historic center, anchored by the grand Plaza de Armas, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The...
Sacred Valley, Peru
The Sacred Valley is a lush and fertile region that was once central to the Inca civilization. Today, it captivates travelers with its stunning scenery of terraced hillsides, rushing rivers, and ancie...
Florianópolis, Brazil
Known as the “Magic Island,” Florianópolis (or Floripa) is famous for its stunning beaches, surf spots, and laid-back lifestyle. Located in southern Brazil, the island offers over 40 beaches, ranging...
Iquique, Chile
Iquique, located on Chile’s northern coast along the Pacific Ocean, is a city that seamlessly blends adventure, history, and relaxation. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches, it’s a hotspot for water...
Eje Cafetero, Colombia
Colombia’s coffee region is a lush, green landscape of rolling hills, coffee plantations, and picturesque towns. It’s where the country’s world-famous Arabica beans are grown, offering visitors the ch...
Easter Island, Chile
Remote and mysterious, Easter Island is home to the iconic moai statues, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. The island blends Polynesian culture with Chilean heritage, creating a fascinating cultural c...
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is Brazil’s most famous city, known for its stunning natural setting and vibrant culture. Nestled between lush mountains and golden beaches, Rio is home to the iconic Christ the Redeeme...
Iguazú Falls, Argentina
Straddling the border with Brazil, Iguazú Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders on the planet. With over 250 individual cascades stretching across 2.7 kilometers, it’s wider than Victor...
Patagonia, Argentina
Patagonia is one of the most stunning wilderness regions in the world, divided between Argentina and Chile. On the Argentine side, travelers can experience glaciers, mountains, lakes, and wildlife in...
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is often called the "Paris of South America," thanks to its European-style boulevards, architecture, and café culture. The city is alive with tango, from performances in San Telmo to inti...
São Paulo, Brazil
São Paulo is Brazil’s largest city and a global hub of business, culture, and food. While less flashy than Rio, it offers world-class museums, theaters, and a thriving nightlife scene. Foodies will...
Lima, Peru
As Peru’s bustling capital, Lima is a city of contrasts where colonial history meets modern sophistication. Known as the “Gastronomy Capital of South America,” it offers world-class restaurants alongs...
Medellín, Colombia
Once known for its troubled past, Medellín has reinvented itself into one of the most innovative cities in the world. Surrounded by mountains, it boasts year-round spring weather and a modern transpor...
Pantanal, Brazil
The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland and one of the best places in South America for wildlife viewing. Unlike the dense Amazon, the open landscapes of the Pantanal make spotting animal...
Salvador, Brazil
Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is Brazil’s cultural heart. Its colorful colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and Afro-Brazilian traditions make it one of the most unique cities in the country....
Bogotá, Colombia
Colombia’s capital is a bustling city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers rise beside colonial plazas. At its heart lies La Candelaria, a historic district with cobbled streets, vibrant murals, and...