Ready for an epic adventure? The best places to travel in South America are calling! This unique continent boasts breathtaking landscapes, vibrant destinations, and fascinating people. Plus, you can go surfing, train in mountaineering, or even join an amateur football match. From budget travel to luxury travel experiences, there’s something for everyone. But before you pack your bags, don’t forget to grab cheap travel insurance to America — because adventure is more fun when you’re covered!
Top Recommended Countries & Destinations to Travel in South America
South America is full of cool places that will leave you speechless. Let’s check out some of the best places to travel in South America that should be on your bucket list!
1. Argentina – Where City Life Meets Wild Nature
If you love variety, Argentina is really the best country in South America to travel! One moment you’re dancing tango in Buenos Aires, and the next, you’re hiking glaciers in Patagonia.
Buenos Aires — Tango, steak, and lively, bustling streets at night. Noisy, vibrant, crowded, and insanely exciting. It is one of the best cities in South America for culture lovers.
Patagonia — Imagine towering glaciers, dramatic mountains, and epic hiking trails. Perfect for adventure travel lovers.
Mendoza — Sip on world-class wine while admiring the Andes mountains. Need we say more?
2. Brazil – The Land of Fun & Festivals
Brazil is among the best places to travel in South America if you love lively culture, stunning beaches, and unforgettable parties.
Rio de Janeiro — Home to Christ the Redeemer, legendary beaches, and the world-famous Carnival. You won’t want to leave!
Amazon Rainforest — Want to feel like an explorer? Visit one of the most beautiful places on Earth and meet amazing wildlife.
Salvador — Colorful streets, Afro-Brazilian heritage, and some of the world's best music and dance scenes.
3. Peru – A Treasure Trove of History & Nature
Love history, food, and breathtaking landscapes? Peru is the brightest South America adventure you simply have to start with!
Machu Picchu — A must-visit for history lovers and one of the most famous travel spots in South America and the world.
Cusco – The charming gateway to the Sacred Valley, packed with markets and ancient Incan ruins.
Lima – Love food? Lima’s seafood and street food scene is legendary!
4. Colombia – The Hidden Gem of South America
Colombia is rapidly turning into one of the best places to travel in South America — for good reason! It’s vibrant, affordable, and packed with amazing spots.
Bogotá — A mix of modern city life and colonial charm, perfect for museum lovers and coffee addicts.
Cartagena — Looking for one of the safest places to travel? This Caribbean paradise is colorful, historic, and full of stunning beaches.
Medellín – Once a dangerous city, now a truly unforgettable destination in South America!
5. Chile – From Deserts to Glaciers
Chile is the place to be if you love extreme landscapes! Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those seeking solo travel experiences will feel right at home.
Atacama Desert — The driest desert on Earth, perfect for stargazing and surreal landscapes.
Santiago — A bustling capital with mountain views, amazing food, and exciting nightlife.
Torres del Paine — A nature lover’s dream, with breathtaking mountains, lakes, and wildlife.
Tip: Planning sports activities like hiking, surfing, or skiing in South America? Ensure your travel insurance includes active or extreme coverage so all expenses for potential sports injuries are covered.
Best Places to Travel in South America by Season or Travel Month
Where to travel in South America, depending on your travel month or season? Don't forget that seasons in South America are not the same as in Europe. That’s why many Europeans and Americans escape their cold homelands to enjoy the warm southern summer! Here’s a quick guide:
Season
Best Destinations
Summer (December – February)
Patagonia (Argentina & Chile), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)
If you're all about budget travel, don’t worry — South America has plenty of affordable spots! Here are some of the cheapest places to travel in South America:
Go to Bolivia! Salar de Uyuni (the famous salt flats) and low-cost food and lodging make this a budget travel dream. How about Ecuador? The Galápagos Islands might be pricey, but Quito and Cuenca are affordable. Finally, try Paraguay. A hidden gem with amazing landscapes and super low travel costs!
Luxury Travel Experiences in South America
If you prefer luxury travel experiences, South America has plenty of options too:
Luxury Amazon Cruises — Explore the jungle in style on a private boat.
Five-Star Resorts in Patagonia — Stunning mountain lodges with breathtaking views.
Wine Tours in Chile and Argentina — Taste world-class wines in the most scenic vineyards.
How to Travel Between Countries in South America
Getting around South America is easier than you think! If you're covering long distances, flying is the quickest option, with major airports in every capital city. Trains aren’t super common, but a few scenic routes — like Argentina’s Tren a las Nubes — are worth the ride. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to explore, buses are a solid choice, offering comfortable rides between cities and even across borders!
Solo Travel in South America
Thinking about traveling alone? No problem! You should prepare for this South America trip especially carefully — inform your family about your destination, learn the local language, and take care of your insurance. South America has many safe places for solo travel:
Uruguay — Peaceful, friendly, and full of charming towns.
Chile — Super safe and easy to navigate with great public transport.
Ecuador — Quito and Cuenca are perfect for solo travel adventures!
Final Thoughts
So, are you ready to pack your bags? What’s the best country to travel in South America? Honestly, there’s no wrong answer! Argentina is a dream if you’re into big cities and epic South America landscapes. Love beaches and parties? Brazil’s got you covered. History buff? Peru will blow your mind. Colombia is full of surprises, and Chile has a little bit of everything — deserts, mountains, glaciers, you name it! The only thing left to figure out is which country in South America you’ll choose first!
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