15 Most Stunning Places to Visit in South America: A Travel Expert's Guide
South America captivates adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. In this expert guest post, Luis from Vagabundo magazine shares his top 15 must-see destinations, highlighting the continent's unparalleled beauty and adventure opportunities.
Cartagena, Colombia – The Jewel of the Caribbean Coast
Known as the crown jewel of Colombia's Caribbean coast, this historic port city enchants backpackers and travelers with its 16th-century charm. Wander cobblestone streets in the old town, admire vibrant colonial architecture, and soak in lively plazas where locals celebrate life through dance.
- Read our guest blogger’s guide: Spending a Week in Cartagena, Colombia
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in Cartagena, Colombia
Canaima National Park, Venezuela – Home to the World's Highest Waterfall
Accessible by flight from Caracas via Puerto Ordaz, this vast national park boasts Angel Falls, the planet's tallest waterfall. Ancient tepuis—flat-topped mountains formed when South America and Africa were joined—offer world-class hiking and climbing for adventurers.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in Canaima National Park, Venezuela
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador – A Wildlife Paradise
Despite the premium cost, these remote islands are a bucket-list essential. Walk among unique species like giant tortoises and marine iguanas, swim with wild dolphins, and snorkel in pristine waters—experiences that justify every penny.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile – Dramatic Desert Landscapes from The Motorcycle Diaries
Nestled 60 miles east of Antofagasta and immortalized in The Motorcycle Diaries, this high-desert oasis is perfect for hikers and sandboarders. Explore pre-Columbian ruins, lunar-like Valle de la Luna and Death Valley, and the continent's premier stargazing sites.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
The Meeting of the Waters, Brazil – A Mesmerizing Natural Phenomenon
In Manaus, the dark Rio Negro from Colombia meets the sediment-rich Rio Solimões from Peru. These rivers flow side-by-side for 8 km without mixing due to differing temperatures and densities, forming the mighty Amazon—a stunning spectacle.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in The Meeting of the Waters, Brazil
Tayrona National Park, Colombia – Pristine Beaches and Rainforest Trails
This coastal gem features powdery white sands, swaying palms, turquoise coves, lagoons, and lush rainforest. Hike to the Pueblito archaeological ruins via forest trails for an immersive blend of nature and ancient history.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Nazca Lines, Peru – Ancient Mysteries in the Desert
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these massive geoglyphs—visible only from the air or nearby hills—spark endless theories about their origins and purposes. Scenic flights offer the best views of their precision.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in The Nazca Lines, Peru
Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil – South America's Grandest Waterfall
Straddling the Argentina-Brazil border, this UNESCO-listed wonder—formed by volcanic activity—spans 2.7 km and features over 275 cascades, making it one of the world's most powerful waterfalls.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia – The World's Largest Salt Flats
Covering 4,100 square miles, this otherworldly salt flat creates surreal mirror effects during rainy season. Stay in salt-block hotels, visit the eerie train cemetery, and capture Instagram-worthy photos.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Cusco, Peru – Inca Heartland and Colonial Charm
Peru's Andean gem, former Inca capital, blends preserved Incan walls with Spanish colonial arcades and balconies. A perfect base after Machu Picchu, it feels timeless.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in Cusco, Peru
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil – Iconic New Seven Wonder Overlooking Rio
Perched on Corcovado Mountain, this Art Deco concrete-and-sandstone statue symbolizes Brazil's deep faith. Gaze over Rio de Janeiro from this must-visit landmark.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals near Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
Lake Titicaca, Peru and Bolivia – Highest Navigable Lake on Earth
The continent's largest lake by volume hosts floating Uros islands and cultural havens like Amantani and Taquile. Homestays offer authentic immersion in indigenous traditions.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in Lake Titicaca, Peru and Bolivia
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile – Patagonian Hiking Paradise
This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Chilean Patagonia dazzles with granite towers, glaciers, and lakes. Ideal for multi-day treks; visit in austral summer from Punta Arenas.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina – Advancing Ice Spectacle
In Los Glaciares National Park near El Calafate, 40-meter ice walls advance daily, calving into the lake. Ice treks and boat tours provide thrilling perspectives.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals near Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
Falkland Islands – Remote Wildlife Haven
This British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic offers pristine nature amid historical tensions. From Stanley, join wildlife tours, fishing, boating, and hikes organized by the Falkland Tourism Board.
Hotels and Self-Catered Vacation Rentals in the Falkland Islands
