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!
This itinerary looks amazing! I’ve always wanted to explore Machu Picchu and the Amazon Rainforest. Do you have any tips for traveling between countries on a budget?