15 Best Places to Visit in South America

Not sure where to start your South American adventure?

With 12 incredible countries, countless landscapes, and so many cultures to explore, planning your trip can feel overwhelming. But here is the good news, we have curated some must visit places for you guys.

In this guide, we reveal the 15 best places to visit in South America—destinations that offer the perfect mix of beauty, adventure, and cultural depth. Whether you're a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this list highlights the best travel spots South America has to offer, making it easier for you to choose your next unforgettable experience. From ancient wonders to vibrant cities and remote escapes, each location is handpicked to ensure you discover the best destination South America proudly boasts.

So grab your travel journal, your next great adventure begins right here.

15 Best Places to Visit in South America

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

Hidden high in the Andes, Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. This ancient Inca citadel is a marvel of stonework and mystery, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

Whether you hike the Inca Trail or take the train from Cusco, the journey is unforgettable. As one of the best places to visit in South America, it offers both history and beauty in equal measure. Explore the ruins at sunrise, walk among llamas, and soak in the mystical atmosphere that makes this one of the best travel spots South America has to offer.

2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Few cities pulse with energy quite like Rio de Janeiro. With its mix of dramatic coastlines, iconic peaks, and nonstop music, this city is where nature and culture collide in the most vibrant way.

Stroll along the famous Copacabana beach, explore the historic hills of Santa Teresa, or gaze up at the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue. When evening falls, the samba rhythms in Lapa ignite the streets, and the city’s festive spirit comes alive.

Whether you're chasing adventure on Sugarloaf Mountain or diving into Carnival’s color and chaos, Rio easily ranks among the best places to visit in South America. It’s truly a best destination South America travelers return to for unforgettable fun and scenery—one of the best travel spots South America proudly offers.

3. Patagonia, Chile & Argentina

Patagonia, stretching across the southern tip of Chile and Argentina, feels like the edge of the world. This vast and remote region offers some of the most striking natural scenery on the planet, towering granite peaks, icy blue glaciers, and endless windswept plains. It’s a paradise for hikers and outdoor lovers, with famous routes like the W Trek in Torres del Paine and glacier walks in Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park.

Wildlife roams freely here, from curious guanacos to majestic Andean condors. If you’re searching for the best destination South America delivers for off-the-grid adventure, this is it. Among the best travel spots South America offers, Patagonia stands out for its wild beauty and unforgettable landscapes, truly one of the best places to visit in South America.

4. Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a Caribbean jewel on Colombia’s northern coast. Its colonial walled city, filled with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets, is a delight to explore. With its sunny beaches, historic forts, and vibrant street life, Cartagena is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in South America.

You can stroll past bougainvillea-covered balconies, sip cocktails in open-air cafés, and enjoy local Afro-Caribbean culture. The city’s charm lies in its blend of history, romance, and tropical vibe, making it one of the best travel spots South America offers for both relaxation and cultural immersion.

5. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

The Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat, a vast white expanse that turns into a giant mirror after rainfall. This surreal destination feels like another planet and is easily among the best places to visit in South America for unique natural wonders.

Stretching across over 10,000 square kilometers, it’s dotted with cactus-covered islands and flocks of flamingos. Whether you're capturing endless horizon shots or visiting during the wet season for the mirror effect, this is one of the best travel spots South America hides away in the Bolivian highlands.

6. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina’s capital is a city of elegance and passion. Known as the "Paris of South America," Buenos Aires blends European architecture with Latin flair. From tango shows in San Telmo to the bustling energy of Palermo's cafés, it’s a city that never fails to inspire. It's among the best travel spots South America has for culture, food, and nightlife.

The atmosphere is magnetic—whether you're enjoying steak at a parrilla, exploring the Recoleta Cemetery, or dancing until dawn. Buenos Aires is truly one of the best places to visit in South America for those who love cities with soul.

7. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands offer a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience. This archipelago is one of the best travel spots South America has for nature lovers, where giant tortoises roam freely and blue-footed boobies nest undisturbed.

Each island offers something unique, from lava landscapes to coral reefs teeming with sea life. As one of the best destinations South America provides for eco-tourism, strict preservation rules keep the ecosystem pristine. Whether you're snorkeling with sea lions or hiking volcanic trails, the Galápagos promise unforgettable moments in one of the world’s most precious habitats.

8. Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert is the driest place on Earth, yet it bursts with life, color, and wonder. Its alien landscapes, geysers, salt flats, and flamingo-filled lagoons make it one of the best places to visit in South America for surreal scenery.

Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) looks like something out of a science fiction film, while night skies here are some of the clearest for stargazing. For those drawn to dramatic and peaceful landscapes, this is the best destination South America offers in the realm of natural extremes.

9. Medellín, Colombia

Once known for its troubled past, Medellín has reinvented itself into one of the best travel spots South America now celebrates. Nestled in a green valley, this "City of Eternal Spring" enjoys mild weather all year.

Ride the Metrocable up the mountains for stunning city views, visit the interactive science parks, or explore the art-covered streets of Comuna 13. With its culture of innovation and community pride, Medellín is quickly becoming one of the best destinations South America offers for urban transformation and creative spirit.

10. Lake Titicaca, Peru & Bolivia

Resting high in the Andes between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca captivates travelers with its deep blue waters, ancient legends, and vibrant indigenous culture. As the world’s highest navigable lake, it offers a truly unique travel experience, one where nature, history, and community come together.

Visitors can explore the handwoven reed islands built by the Uros people, hike the terraced hillsides of Taquile Island, or spend a night with local families to gain insight into traditional Andean life. If you're searching for the best travel spots South America offers for cultural immersion, this lake is hard to beat.

Rich in myth and beauty, Lake Titicaca remains one of the best places to visit in South America and a best destination South America travelers remember for its heart and heritage.

11. Quito, Ecuador

Quito is a city that balances its colonial past with modern energy, perched high in the Andes. As one of the highest capitals in the world, it offers striking mountain views alongside a beautifully preserved historic center. From baroque churches to bustling plazas, every corner has a story.

It’s not only a cultural hub but also the gateway to the Galápagos Islands. If you're looking for the best destination South America offers for history and scenery in one, Quito is a standout. It's undeniably one of the best places to visit in South America with easy access to nature and heritage.

12. Iguaçu Falls, Brazil & Argentina

Iguaçu Falls is one of the most powerful and awe-inspiring sights in South America. Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, these massive waterfalls span nearly two miles and are surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest.

Walkways and boat tours bring you up close to the thundering water, offering an unforgettable experience. As one of the best travel spots South America offers for nature lovers, it’s a feast for the senses. The combination of power, beauty, and biodiversity makes Iguaçu Falls one of the best places to visit in South America.

13. Lima, Peru

Often overlooked for Machu Picchu, Lima is a coastal capital bursting with energy, cuisine, and colonial charm. It’s fast becoming one of the best travel spots South America offers for food lovers, with world-renowned restaurants and unbeatable ceviche.

The clifftop district of Miraflores offers ocean views, while Barranco entices with its bohemian art scene. Historic downtown Lima boasts grand churches and lively plazas. For those wanting to explore a dynamic city with both old-world grace and contemporary flair, Lima stands out as one of the best places to visit in South America.

14. Montevideo, Uruguay

Uruguay’s capital is often underrated but deserves a top spot among the best destinations South America offers for a slower, more relaxed vibe. Montevideo blends colonial architecture with beachy bliss.

Locals sip mate along the Rambla waterfront, musicians fill the air with tango, and markets buzz with fresh seafood and antiques. Its laid-back atmosphere makes it one of the best travel spots South America provides for those wanting to escape the tourist crowds. From historic Ciudad Vieja to modern seaside suburbs, Montevideo is a hidden treasure worth exploring.

15. São Paulo, Brazil

Sao Paulo is the heart of culture, art and business. Often overlooked for Rio, this mega-city surprises visitors with its world-class museums, trendy restaurants, and vibrant street life. From the São Paulo Museum of Art to the sprawling Ibirapuera Park, there’s a creative energy here that never slows down.

As one of the best places to visit in South America for urban exploration, São Paulo is bold, diverse, and full of character. It’s one of the best travel spots South America offers for those who thrive on big-city vibes with a rich cultural soul.