If you’re looking for the best places to visit in South America, odds are that you’ve been to the continent’s popular capitals or not at all. While tango dancing in Buenos Aires or tasting the exotic wine from the valleys surrounding Santiago might seem mesmerizing, this country has so much more to explore.
South America offers tons of culture, local food, adventure, natural beauty, and even creativity that most mainstream tourists do not know about. It has under-the-radar cities and towns that should be on your bucket list. These destinations will serve you with a never-ending scroll, from eating street food to outdoor activities that will put any adrenaline junkie to shame.
Scroll ahead for our editor’s list of adventures and the perfect itinerary that’s sure to make your trip a memorable one.
Beautiful South America Tourist Places to Visit
It’s no secret, that South America tourist places offer historical wonders with their stunning landscapes and colorful culture that draw millions of travelers each year.
While the must-visit destinations in this country include the pristine beaches of the Galapagos Islands or the ruins of Machu Picchu, there are so many offbeat places that promise adventure, wellness, and discovery.
Here are some of the most beautiful places In South America that should be on your bucket list.
1. Climb to Machu Picchu, Peru
One of the seven wonders of the world, the Incan citadel located in the Andes should be on your bucket list. Many travelers will tell you that Peru feels like Mexico and Mexico feels like Peru. That definitely makes Mexico and Peru, Twins…! However, don’t be mistaken – each location has its own charm. Peru is best known for Machu Picchu. Adventure and nature travelers love it, especially if they can trek along the Inca trail.
2. Take a boat ride under the Iguazu Falls
South America’s Iguazu Falls is a system of more than 200 cascades at a height of around 270 feet. You can either observe the falls from the top or even hop on a boat and go directly under the high-pressure falls.
3. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
During the rainy season, this massive salt flat becomes a sky-reflecting mirror. Its beauty attracts numerous photographers.
Perfect South America Itinerary for 2025
Traveling to South America can be quite complex, with so much to do and see. While there are many destinations to choose from, the editors have picked the best ones from exclusive accommodations to unique experiences that go beyond the typical tourist path.
Looking for the best places to visit in South America? Here are some destinations that should be a part of your South America travel itinerary. This is especially true if you are visiting the continent between March and April.
1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
One of the most famous places in South America, guests arrive at Rio de Janeiro to visit Christ the Redeemer, enjoy a city tour, and proceed for a cable car ride up to Corcovado, to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city.
2. Iguazu Falls, Brazil
You can board the flight to Foz de Iguazu, one of the grandest waterfalls in the world, and get up close to it during a thrilling safari boat ride.
3. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Did you know you can check out the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls, where you can see the Devil’s Throat?
4. La Boca, Argentina
You can enjoy a city tour around the La Boca neighborhood and watch an authentic Tango dance performance.
5. Bariloche, Argentina
Guests can board the flight to San Carlos de Bariloche to enjoy a tour of Mt. Campanario, and Nahuel Huapi Lake, the 2nd largest lake in Argentina.
6. Cerro Tronador, Argentina, and Chile
This extinct stratovolcano is between Argentina and Chile, in the southern Andes. Here, you can enter the Tronador National Park and stop at multiple viewpoints, including Lake Mascordi and the tallest mountain in the Lake District of the Andes, Mount Tronador.
7. Puerto Varas, Chile
Take time to cross three lakes – Nahuel Huapi, Lake Fria, and Lake Todos Los Santos to Puerto Varas, where you will find a volcano and the Llanquhue Lake.
8. Puerto Montt, Chile
Spend the day exploring the capital Puerto Montt, the viewpoint to see the Pacific Islands, explore the city and the local market.
9. Puerto Maldonado, Peru
Guests can explore the interiors of the Amazon Jungle Reserve and enjoy sailing on the Madre de Dios. You can go for a walk to observe the nocturnal insects, go boating, and try and spot an alligator family. You can explore various local excursions based on your requirements and what you like to do. Most travelers prefer to explore the beauty of the Amazon rainforest.
10. Cusco, Peru
Cusco day and night guided tour includes the city, Qorikancha, the most significant temple in the Inca Empire, and a walk to Plazoleta de San Blas. You drive down to Sacred Valley in Cusco to check out a town on the banks of the Urubamba River.
11. Machu Picchu, Peru
Considered one of the best places to travel in South America, guests can explore the town of Ollantaytambo, board the Vista Dome train to Aguas Calientes, and take the bus to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Here you can enjoy a guided tour and a delicious local lunch.
12. Maras Salt Mines, Peru
Make sure you don’t miss this location. Not only can you visit the salt mines, but you can also enjoy the frenzy of the Pisac Market.
13. Puno, Peru
As a part of their South America tour package, guests can drive to Puno, explore Titicaca Lake and the Uros Islands in Lake Titicaca, and learn about the Aymara culture.
14. Lima, Peru
Is Lima underrated? Well, most visitors to Lima think that after visiting the city, which has so much to offer. Here, you can enjoy a city tour of Lima, Plaza de Armas, the museum in Lima, and explore Barranco, the Bohemian Art district of Lima.
15. Paracas, Peru
Relish the local distillery tasting session of Pisco and have a classic seafood-friendly lunch in Paracas. After a hearty meal, spend time enjoying the beautiful beaches.
16. Ballestas Islands, Peru
Are you a marine animal lover? Then this is the place for you. Visit the Ballestas Islands (southern neighbors of the Galapagos in Ecuador) to see penguins, sea lions, and marine birds.
17. Sao Paulo, Brazil
Head to Sao Paulo to see the beauty of this city. It is the financial hub of Brazil and has so much to offer discerning travelers. Be sure to explore the 12,000 meters of the city’s municipal market called Mercado. Not only can you find local food and spices to take home but also check out the stalls of the artisans and admire the stained-glass windows from Germany. Catedra da Se is noted for its Neo-Gothic architecture and the Tropic of Capricorn passes through it. Parque do Ibirapuera will please urban park lovers. The park also houses numerous art museums that are worth checking out.
Activities to Do in South America – Your Leisure Time
Keeping to an itinerary all day can be rough. However, there are days when you can just relax, explore some offbeat places, and visit the local markets and spots to unwind. Below are some of them.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Go for: Cool cafes, locally driven restaurants, and exclusive cocktail spots
Close to the Andean Lakes, the Lake Crossing Over the Andes of Argentina and Chile, is a stunning local food scene. Guests can explore the Chacarita neighborhood, visit bars, cafes, and restaurants, and check out the wine bars. You will find a wide collection of local food spots, wine, cheese, and even charcuterie lists.
Colca Canyon, Peru
Go for: A long drive, epic hiking, and stunning landscapes
If you have a lot of free time on your hands, then a long drive from Paracas in Peru is Colca Canyon. This canyon features hillsides lined with agricultural terraces, and showdowns of Andean condors and is an offbeat hiking destination for adventure enthusiasts.
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Go for: Stargazing, handcrafted adobe dwellings, and a rugged vibe
Quite a way from Puerto Varas in Chile, over bronzed, dusty roadways is the soulful oasis of San Pedro de Atacama. Visitors can see Chile’s northern star, snowcapped volcanic mountains, lagoons, and even dazzling salt flats here. You can even come up close with the world’s rarest flamingos and native vicuñas. Just keep in mind that this location is quite remote and will take some time to get to.
Sacred Valley of Peru
Go for: The local vendors and artisans
An hour’s drive away from San Blas in Cusco is the Sacred Valley of Peru. This location is the hub of art and architecture. It is home to many local artisans, little stores, cafes, and all sorts of goods.
Looking for an Exciting Trip to South America?
Planning a trip to South America can be overwhelming with so many destinations to choose from. The professionals at Anubhav Vacations understand the stress of trying to fit everything into one perfect trip! They can advise you on the places to visit in South America and ensure you enjoy the benefits of group travel but at a slow pace.
With so many South America tourist places to cover, trust Anubhav to find the best routes, local restaurants, cultural heritage, natural wonders, and the right accommodations. We take the guesswork out of planning and have an itinerary that is perfect for you.
