20 Beautiful Places to Visit in South America
South America is a continent of incredible beauty and diversity, with landscapes ranging from lush rainforests and vast deserts to towering mountains and ancient ruins. Whether you’re an adventurer, history lover, or someone looking for relaxation, South America has something to offer. Here are 20 beautiful places you must visit when traveling through South America.
1. Machu Picchu, Peru
One of the most famous and iconic landmarks in the world, Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains. The sunrise views and the mystery surrounding the site make it a must-see destination.
2. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is one of the largest and most powerful waterfall systems in the world. With more than 275 individual falls, this UNESCO World Heritage site is truly breathtaking.
3. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The largest salt flat in the world, Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is a surreal and vast landscape. When covered in water, it forms a giant mirror that reflects the sky, creating an otherworldly visual experience.
4. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Famous for its unique wildlife, including giant tortoises and marine iguanas, the Galápagos Islands are a nature lover’s paradise. You can explore volcanic landscapes, snorkel in clear waters, and witness some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.
5. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Known for its lively culture, stunning beaches, and iconic landmarks like the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro is a city of vibrant energy and breathtaking views.
6. Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth, featuring unique landscapes like salt flats, volcanoes, and lagoons. The desert’s surreal beauty makes it a fantastic destination for stargazing and hiking.
7. Lake Titicaca, Peru/Bolivia
The highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca is shared by Peru and Bolivia. It’s known for its serene beauty, traditional Uros Floating Islands, and the picturesque town of Copacabana.
8. Patagonia, Argentina/Chile
Patagonia is a vast region of stunning glaciers, mountains, and wildlife in southern Argentina and Chile. Key highlights include Torres del Paine National Park and the Perito Moreno Glacier.
9. Cartagena, Colombia
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cartagena is a charming colonial city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. The walled old town with its vibrant streets, colorful buildings, and historical forts make it a must-see.
10. Amazon Rainforest, Brazil/Peru/Ecuador
The Amazon Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest in the world and is home to a staggering variety of wildlife and plant species. A guided boat tour or jungle trek offers an incredible experience for nature lovers.
11. Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina
Mount Fitz Roy, also known as Cerro Chaltén, is one of the most beautiful peaks in the Patagonian Andes. Its dramatic jagged silhouette draws hikers and mountaineers from all over the world.
12. Valle de la Luna, Chile
Located in Chile’s Atacama Desert, the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) is known for its striking, otherworldly landscape of sand dunes, rock formations, and salt cliffs. It’s particularly stunning at sunset.
13. Bariloche, Argentina
Nestled in the Andes by Lake Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche is a picturesque town with beautiful lakes, snow-capped mountains, and charming Swiss-style architecture. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and boating.
14. Lima, Peru
Lima, the capital of Peru, is a bustling city with a rich history and stunning coastal views. Don’t miss the Plaza Mayor, Miraflores, and the Nazca Lines if you’re up for an adventurous flight over the desert.
15. Uyuni, Bolivia
The small town of Uyuni is the gateway to Salar de Uyuni and offers an array of salt flat tours, vintage train stations, and desert landscapes. It’s an otherworldly experience for those looking for remote adventure.
16. Easter Island, Chile
Famous for its mysterious moai statues, Easter Island (or Rapa Nui) is an isolated island in the Pacific Ocean. The ancient culture and stunning scenery make it a fascinating destination.
17. Mount Roraima, Venezuela
Mount Roraima is a tabletop mountain in the Venezuelan Amazon. The Roraima Expedition takes you on a thrilling journey through remote jungle and up to the “lost world” of the mountaintop.
18. Isla del Sol, Bolivia
Located on Lake Titicaca, Isla del Sol is a tranquil island with ancient Inca ruins, stunning mountain views, and a rich cultural heritage. It’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
19. Sao Paulo, Brazil
São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and a cultural hotspot. Known for its art, theater, and gastronomy, it also offers amazing modern architecture, a thriving nightlife scene, and plenty of green spaces like Ibirapuera Park.
20. The Pantanal, Brazil/Paraguay/Bolivia
The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland and one of the best places in South America for wildlife watching. It’s home to a variety of species, including jaguars, capybaras, and caimans, and offers boat tours and safaris.
