South America

Travel destinations, attractions and places across South America including main attractions, tips, things to do, and quirky encounters with locals.

South America is a vast and diverse continent with many exciting places to visit and things to do. Here are some categories to consider:

  1. Natural Wonders:
  • Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru
  • Iguazu Falls, a stunning waterfall system located on the border of Brazil and Argentina
  • Galapagos Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Ecuador known for its unique wildlife and natural beauty
  • Atacama Desert, a desert in northern Chile known for its otherworldly landscapes and stargazing opportunities
  • Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest rainforest spanning multiple South American countries with unique wildlife and ecosystems
  1. Urban Destinations:
  • Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, known for its beaches, Carnaval celebrations, and iconic Christ the Redeemer statue
  • Buenos Aires, Argentina, a city known for its tango culture, architecture, and delicious food
  • Cartagena, Colombia, a vibrant and colorful colonial city on the Caribbean coast
  • Lima, Peru, a city known for its rich history, museums, and food scene
  • Santiago, Chile, a modern and cosmopolitan city nestled in the Andes mountains
  1. Cultural and Historical Sites:
  • Easter Island, a remote island in Chile known for its mysterious moai statues and ancient Polynesian culture
  • The Sacred Valley, Peru, a region in the Andes Mountains with important Incan ruins and history
  • Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia, a vast expanse of salt flats that creates stunning optical illusions
  • Ciudad Perdida, Colombia, an ancient and remote city in the Sierra Nevada mountains
  • Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay, a charming colonial town on the banks of the Rio de la Plata
  1. Outdoor Activities:
  • Trekking to Machu Picchu, Peru, one of the world’s most famous hikes
  • Hiking in Patagonia, Argentina and Chile, with stunning mountain landscapes and glaciers
  • Scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, with unique underwater wildlife and ecosystems
  • Surfing in Florianopolis, Brazil, with world-class waves and beaches
  • Paragliding in Medellin, Colombia, with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
  1. Festivals and Celebrations:
  • Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, one of the world’s largest and most famous festivals with music, parades, and dancing
  • Inti Raymi in Cusco, Peru, a celebration of the winter solstice and Incan culture
  • Day of the Dead in Mexico and other South American countries, a celebration of deceased loved ones with colorful decorations, food, and music
  • La Feria de las Flores in Medellin, Colombia, a festival celebrating the region’s flower industry with parades, concerts, and exhibitions
  • Fiesta de la Vendimia in Mendoza, Argentina, a wine festival celebrating the grape harvest with tastings, music, and events

These are just a few examples of the many things to see and do in South America. With its diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences, the continent offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.