If you’re planning to add Colombia to your South American adventure, Summer recommends starting in Santiago, Chile. Here’s a captivating 16-day itinerary for Chile, Peru, and Colombia:
Day 1: Touch down in Santiago, Chile
Day 2: Embark on a day trip from Santiago to the vibrant coastal cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar
Day 3: Journey from Santiago to Puerto Natales
Day 4: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park on a full-day bus tour
Day 5: Marvel at the majestic Grey Glacier on a boat tour
Day 6: Return from Puerto Natales to Santiago
Day 7: Fly from Santiago via Lima to the historic city of Cusco, Peru
Day 8: Discover the enchanting Sacred Valley and make your way to Aguas Calientes
Day 9: Explore the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco
Day 10: Fly from Cusco via Lima to Bogotá, Colombia
Day 11: Take a day trip from Bogotá to the awe-inspiring Salt Cathedral
Day 12: Spend the morning at the Gold Museum, then catch an afternoon flight to Cartagena
Day 13: Wander through the charming old town of Cartagena
Day 14: Fly from Cartagena to Medellín and visit the colorful Comuna 13
Day 15: Venture on a day trip from Medellín to the picturesque El Peñol de Guatapé
Day 16: Depart from Medellín or continue to your next destination
Summer also notes that Bolivia is a fantastic spontaneous addition to your travel plans, as Bolivian visas are readily available in many South American cities, including:
– Buenos Aires, Argentina
– Santiago, Chile
– Calama (Atacama), Chile
– Lima, Peru
– Cusco, Peru
– Puno, Peru, and numerous other South American cities.
Here’s how the itinerary looks with Bolivia included:
Day 1: Arrive in Santiago, Chile
Day 2: Enjoy a day trip from Santiago to the artistic havens of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar
Day 3: Travel from Santiago to Puerto Natales
Day 4: Experience the stunning beauty of Torres del Paine National Park on a full-day bus tour
Day 5: Cruise around the magnificent Grey Glacier
Day 6: Return from Puerto Natales to Santiago
Day 7: Fly from Santiago to Calama and transfer to the Atacama Desert (visas can be obtained here if needed)
Day 8: Begin your exploration of the Atacama Desert
Day 9: Continue your adventures in the Atacama
Day 10: Start a 3-day tour from Atacama to Uyuni, Bolivia
Day 11: Second day of the 3-day tour
Day 12: Conclude the 3-day tour, arriving in Uyuni and visiting the surreal Salar de Uyuni
Day 13: Watch the sunset over Uyuni, then take an overnight bus to La Paz
Day 14: Explore the unique Witch Market and enjoy a cable car ride in La Paz
Day 15: Cross from La Paz to Puno, Peru
Day 16: Take a day trip to the serene Lake Titicaca
Day 17: Travel from Puno along the scenic Ruta del Sol to Cusco
Day 18: Delve into the Sacred Valley and head to Aguas Calientes
Day 19: Visit the iconic Machu Picchu and return to Cusco
Day 20: Fly from Cusco to Lima
Day 21: Depart from Lima or move on to your next adventure
For more details on combining routes in South American countries, feel free to reach out to Summer.
I’m Summer, a passionate backpacker who thrives on outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for travel companions and the latest travel tips for Central America, South America, and Antarctica, join our group and let’s explore together!
