If you only get the chance to visit South America once in your lifetime, these 6 countries are absolutely essential! From the ancient Inca civilization to lush tropical rainforests, from the icy tips of glaciers to awe-inspiring world heritage sites, here’s an itinerary you won’t want to miss👇
1️⃣ Peru 🇵🇪 | A Thousand-Year-Old City in the Sky
Must-visit:
🔸 Machu Picchu: Discover the Inca ruins nestled in the clouds. For a serene experience, arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.
🔸 Cusco: Wander through the historic capital and shop for cozy alpaca wool blankets at the vibrant night market in Plaza de Armas.
🔸 Lake Titicaca: Spend a night on the unique floating reed islands and learn the art of weaving from the Uros people.
Off-the-beaten-path: Embark on a thrilling hike to Rainbow Mountain or take a scenic flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines.
⚠️ Note: Secure your Machu Picchu tickets two months in advance and be mindful of altitude sickness in Cusco!
2️⃣ Chile 🇨🇱 | The End of the World and a Cool Paradise
Must-visit:
🔸 Easter Island: Unravel the mystery of the Moai statues and catch a breathtaking Pacific sunset.
🔸 Torres del Paine National Park: A hiker’s paradise with stunning glaciers, where you can stay in charming wooden cabins.
🔸 Atacama Desert: A stargazer’s dream, featuring a moon-like valley that resembles Mars.
Off-the-beaten-path: Explore the colorful streets of Valparaíso or book an unforgettable Antarctic cruise from Punta Arenas.
⚠️ Note: Snag those low-price tickets to Easter Island three months ahead of time!
3️⃣ Brazil 🇧🇷 | Carnival and the Song of the Rainforest
Must-visit:
🔸 Rio de Janeiro: Enjoy a panoramic view of Christ the Redeemer and soak up the vibrant nightlife at Copacabana Beach.
🔸 Iguazu Falls: Take a thrilling boat ride to Devil’s Throat and get drenched in a spectacular rainbow shower.
🔸 Amazon Rainforest: Experience nighttime caiman spotting and stay in unique riverside treehouses.
Off-the-beaten-path: Immerse yourself in the colonial charm of Salvador or go off-roading in the mesmerizing Lencois Maranhenses (Thousand Lakes Desert).
⚠️ Note: Allow one month for your Brazilian visa and pack plenty of mosquito repellent for the rainforest!
4️⃣ Argentina 🇦🇷 | Romantic Impact of Glaciers and Tango
Must-visit:
🔸 Perito Moreno Glacier: Listen to the thunderous roar of cracking ice and explore the mesmerizing blue ice caves.
🔸 Ushuaia: Visit the lighthouse at the end of the world and send a postcard from Antarctica.
🔸 Buenos Aires: Savor coffee in century-old cafes and watch captivating tango shows in La Boca.
Off-the-beaten-path: Enjoy bike tours through Mendoza’s picturesque vineyards or take the Train to the End of the World in Tierra del Fuego.
⚠️ Note: Book professional tours for glacier hiking and secure your Antarctic cruise tickets half a year in advance during peak season!
5️⃣ Bolivia 🇧🇴 | Walking on the Mirror of the Sky
Must-visit:
🔸 **Salar de Uyuni**: Experience the surreal beauty of mirror-like reflections during the rainy season, and marvel at the geometric patterns of the salt flats in the dry season.
🔸 **La Paz**: Take a thrilling ride on the “Death Road” cable car, and explore the mystical Witches’ Market for unique souvenirs and local remedies.
🔸 **Sucre**: Wander through the charming white colonial city, and take advantage of its excellent language schools to learn Spanish at a great value.
Off-the-beaten-path: Spot vibrant flamingos at the Red Lagoon, and enjoy an unforgettable overnight stay at volcanic hot springs.
⚠️ Note: Be sure to prepare $100 in cash for your visa on arrival, and don’t forget to bring your yellow fever vaccination certificate.
6️⃣ Ecuador 🇪🇨 | Kingdom of Biodiversity on the Equator
Must-visit:
🔸 **Galapagos Islands**: Swim alongside giant tortoises and playful sea lions, and visit the very place that inspired Darwin’s groundbreaking theory of evolution.
🔸 **Quito**: Stand on the equatorial monument, straddling both hemispheres, and delve into the rich history of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town.
🔸 **Baños**: Swing at the edge of the world, and rejuvenate in the healing waters of the volcanic hot springs.
Off-the-beaten-path: Venture into the lush Yasuni Rainforest in the Amazon, and discover the stunning colonial architecture of Cuenca.
⚠️ Note: The islands have strict ecological protection rules—please respect the wildlife and refrain from touching any animals!
📌 Tips:
Remember, South America has opposite seasons. For the best travel experience, plan your trip during the dry season from May to October!
