Why I Fell in Love with South America
There’s something magical about South America.
From the first moment I stood beneath the towering Andes in Peru to the time I wandered through the colorful streets of Cartagena, I knew this continent would leave a mark on me forever. South America isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place you feel. It’s alive with rhythm, color, nature, and stories that stretch across centuries.
This South America travel guide is a collection of the insights I’ve gathered while exploring this wild, beautiful, and often misunderstood continent. Whether you dream of hiking to Machu Picchu, dancing in a Brazilian street festival, or sipping coffee in the Colombian mountains — I’ve got you covered.
Traveling through South America changed how I see the world. And this guide is here to help you plan a trip that’s not just scenic, but soulful.
Best Places to Visit in South America (Ranked by Beauty, Safety & Cost)
Best places to visit in South America — it’s a phrase I’ve typed into Google more times than I can count when I first started planning my trip. But after actually spending months exploring this wildly diverse continent, I’ve realized the “best” places aren’t always the most obvious.
From glacier hikes in Argentina to salt flats in Bolivia and quiet beach towns in Brazil, South America offers something for every type of traveler — whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or simply unforgettable views.
In this section, I’ve ranked the top South America destinations I’ve personally experienced — not just based on beauty, but also on travel safety and affordability. Some are famous. Others are hidden gems in South America I stumbled upon when I least expected it.
1. Machu Picchu, Peru – The Crown Jewel
You can’t make a South America travel guide without Peru. And Machu Picchu? It’s just… magic. I trekked the Inca Trail for four days, and the reward at the top was more than a view — it was a connection to something ancient.
- Perfect for: Hikers, history lovers, first-time visitors
- Also see: Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, and the streets of Cusco
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2. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia – Mirror of the Sky
This salt flat is like walking on another planet. I went during rainy season — the reflection of the sky was so surreal, I lost track of what was up and down. If you’re chasing unreal beauty, this is your spot.
- Perfect for: Backpackers, photographers, solo travelers
- Also explore: Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, flamingo-filled lagoons
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3. Iguazu Falls, Argentina & Brazil – Power of Nature
Straddling two countries, Iguazu is thunder, mist, and rainforest rolled into one. I visited the Argentine side first (more trails), but the Brazilian side? Better panoramic views.
- Don’t miss: The Devil’s Throat walkway — bring a poncho!
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4. Torres del Paine, Chile – Patagonia’s Crown
This national park in Chilean Patagonia took my breath away — literally. Hiking here is intense but wildly rewarding. I still remember waking up to flaming sunrise skies behind jagged peaks.
- Perfect for: Multi-day hikers, nature lovers
- Extra idea: Link to your Patagonia cluster guide
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5. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina – Ice That Roars
This isn’t just a glacier. It’s alive. I stood on a platform and watched massive chunks of ice calve into the lake with deafening cracks.
- Best part: You can actually hike ON the glacier
- Combine with: El Calafate + El Chaltén in your itinerary
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6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Energy & Soul
I expected Rio to be loud and touristy — and it is. But it’s also raw, real, and unforgettable. Watching sunset from Sugarloaf Mountain while samba echoes in the distance? That moment changed me.
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Explore: Ipanema, Santa Teresa, and Christ the Redeemer
Hidden gem: Paraty — colonial charm + quiet beaches
Bonus Picks – Hidden Gems in South America
Here are a few under-the-radar spots I found on the road — and I’m still dreaming about going back.
| Destination | Country | Why Go |
| Sucre | Bolivia | Whitewashed colonial buildings + charm |
| Pucón | Chile | Volcano treks, thermal springs, lakes |
| Jericoacoara | Brazil | Sand dunes, kitesurfing, no cars |
| Quilotoa Loop | Ecuador | Crater lake, highland villages |
| Galápagos Islands | Ecuador | Wildlife heaven, once-in-a-lifetime trip |
If you’re building a South America itinerary, these hidden gems deserve a spot alongside the big-name destinations.
Want more detailed breakdowns of these countries?
👉 Explore: [Top 25 South America Destinations Ranked by Cost & Safety]
Is It Safe to Travel in South America in 2025? What I Learned on the Road
This was one of my biggest questions before I started my journey:
Is South America safe to travel? Short answer? Yes — but it depends where you go and how you travel.
I backpacked across multiple countries solo, and while I had a few close calls, I also had some of the most welcoming, human experiences of my life. The continent is filled with kind people, amazing culture, and breathtaking landscapes — you just need to travel smart.
Here’s what I learned firsthand about safety in South America, plus the safest countries to visit, red flags to watch for, and the real deal when traveling solo — especially if you’re doing it for the first time.
Reality Check: Is South America Safe for Tourists?
Let’s be honest — South America does have regions with high crime rates, political unrest, and petty theft. But that’s not the full story.
Most major travel destinations are safe for tourists, especially if you stick to well-known areas, avoid sketchy neighborhoods after dark, and travel with awareness.
What felt safe to me:
- Walking through Cusco, Peru at night in busy tourist zones
- Using Ubers and taxis in Buenos Aires and Medellín
- Riding public buses in Chile, Argentina, and Ecuador
What I avoided:
- Bus stations late at night in Bolivia and Colombia
- Flashy clothes, watches, or expensive camera gear
- Wandering off-the-beaten path alone in big cities like Rio
Safest Countries in South America to Visit in 2025
If you’re visiting South America for the first time, these are the best countries for safety, comfort, and low-stress travel:
Uruguay – Small, Friendly, and Peaceful
I felt 100% at ease in Montevideo and Punta del Este. The people are kind, the streets are clean, and it’s known as one of the safest countries in South America.
Chile – Organized and Efficient
From Santiago to Patagonia, Chile felt calm, modern, and easy to navigate. Public transport was reliable and safe, even at night.
Ecuador – Great for Solo Travel
Quito has its rough edges, but the Andes towns, coastal villages, and even the Galápagos are low-risk and very welcoming.
Argentina – Safe but Stay Alert in Cities
Buenos Aires has petty theft issues (keep your phone tucked away), but Patagonia and Mendoza were perfectly safe.
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Places to Be More Cautious
While many areas are fine, these spots had more warnings during my research and while talking to locals:
Venezuela – Avoid for Now
Due to political instability, crime, and infrastructure issues, most travelers (including me) avoid Venezuela for now.
Colombia (certain regions)
Cities like Medellín and Bogotá felt relatively safe in tourist zones. But border areas, rural zones, and some parts of Cali should be approached with caution.
Bolivia (border towns & late nights)
I personally felt safe in Sucre and Uyuni. But La Paz at night or border crossings (e.g. with Peru or Chile) can be intense if you’re not alert.
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My Top Safety Tips (What Worked for Me)
- Use Uber or trusted apps – Safer than street taxis
- Don’t flash valuables – Keep your phone and camera tucked away
- Use a money belt or hidden pouch – Especially on buses or night trains
- Stay in hostels or hotels with strong reviews – I used Hostelworld and Booking
- Check local news – Especially during elections or protests
- Avoid wandering solo after dark – Especially in non-tourist areas
- Register with your embassy – Especially for long-term travel
- Make copies of your passport – I kept one in my backpack and one online
Solo Travel in South America (Especially for Women)
I met dozens of solo female travelers across Peru, Argentina, and Ecuador — and many said it was easier than they expected.
- Stay in female-only dorms
- Use WhatsApp groups or Facebook groups to meet other travelers
- Dress modestly in conservative areas
- Avoid going out alone at night in big cities
This could become its own cluster post later: “Solo Travel in South America: My Honest Experience”
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My Honest Opinion: Would I Travel Again?
Absolutely. But I traveled aware, not afraid.
If you go in with street smarts, research, and a flexible attitude, you’ll likely feel as safe in South America as in many parts of Europe or Southeast Asia. And what you get in return? Adventure. Culture. Nature. Friendships.
I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
👉 Check out: [Safest Countries to Visit in South America in 2025]
Safety Quick Table
| Country | Safety Rating | Notes |
| Uruguay | 🟢 Excellent | Safe, easy, peaceful |
| Chile | 🟢 Excellent | Efficient, modern, reliable |
| Argentina | 🟡 Good | Be alert in cities |
| Ecuador | 🟢 Great | Easy for backpackers, safe outside Quito |
| Bolivia | 🟡 Mixed | Safe in tourist towns, rough at borders |
| Colombia | 🟡 Mixed | Stick to tourist zones |
| Venezuela | 🔴 Unsafe | Not recommended |
The Ultimate South America Itinerary — 2 to 4 Week Routes for Every Kind of Traveler
Planning a trip through South America is exciting — but also overwhelming. I remember staring at the map and wondering: Where do I even start?
From Amazon jungles to snow-capped Andes, colonial cities to coastal villages, there’s so much to see.
Over the months I spent backpacking South America, I figured out what works (and what doesn’t). These itinerary suggestions are based on that experience — and designed to help you make the most of your time, budget, and bucket list.
2-Week South America Highlights Itinerary (For First-Time Travelers)
Perfect for: Vacationers, short-term travelers, couples
Focus: Iconic attractions + minimal flights
Route Suggestion:
Peru
- Explore Lima (1 day)
- Fly to Cusco, tour Sacred Valley (2 days)
- Hike or train to Machu Picchu (2–3 days)
- Optional: Day trip to Rainbow Mountain
Bolivia
- Cross border to La Paz (1 day)
- Take a 3-day tour of Salar de Uyuni — surreal salt flats, flamingo lagoons, hot springs
Chile
- End in San Pedro de Atacama — stargazing, geysers, desert adventures
Fly out from Calama or Santiago
3-Week Backpacking Itinerary (For Budget + Culture Travelers)
Perfect for: Solo travelers, backpackers, digital nomads
Route Suggestion:
Colombia
- Bogotá → Medellín → Salento (coffee region)
- Visit national parks in Colombia South America like Tayrona or Cocora Valley
- Stop in Cartagena or the hidden beach town of Palomino
Ecuador
- Cross into Quito → Baños → Amazon lodges
- Hike Cotopaxi or explore Quilotoa Loop
- Optional: Fly to Galápagos (budget permitting)
Peru
- Wrap with Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu
Tip: Stick to buses, travel slow, and connect with other backpackers through hostel WhatsApp groups.
1-Month Southern Loop – Patagonia, Glaciers & Big Landscapes
Perfect for: Adventure travelers, couples, photographers
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Route Suggestion:
🇦🇷 Argentina
- Buenos Aires → Mendoza (wine region)
- Fly to El Calafate → Perito Moreno Glacier
- Hike El Chaltén and Fitz Roy
🇨🇱 Chile
- Cross to Torres del Paine National Park
- End in Santiago or Valparaíso for a city break
Ideal travel window: December to March
Best time to book: 3 months in advance for Patagonia campsites and buses
Bonus Route: Coastal & Nature Lovers Itinerary (Hidden Gems)
Perfect for: Beach chasers, slow travelers, eco-tourists
Suggested Route:
Guyana
- Explore coastal beaches in Guyana South America
- Visit Kaieteur Falls (one of the highest waterfalls in the world)
Colombia
- Relax in Palomino, Tayrona Park, or the Rosario Islands
- Spot sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds
Peru
- Fly to Lima → Paracas (see penguins + sea lions)
- End with seafood in Miraflores and explore the nightlife
Pro Tip: Consider Travel Seasons
Timing matters. Here’s when to go:
| Region | Best Time to Visit |
| Patagonia | Dec–March (summer) |
| Peru (Cusco/Machu Picchu) | May–Sept (dry season) |
| Colombia + Caribbean | Dec–Feb (dry, festive) |
| Amazon Rainforest | June–Nov (less rain) |
| Beaches (Guyana, Brazil) | Sept–Feb (sunniest) |
How to Get Around South America
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- Buses are the backbone of South American travel: use companies like Cruz del Sur (Peru), Andesmar (Argentina), and Cootranshuila (Colombia)
- Flights can be cheaper than you think on Sky Airline, LATAM, and Viva Air
- Overland travel works well in border regions like Bolivia–Chile or Colombia–Ecuador
- Don’t expect trains — they’re rare outside of short tourist routes
Apps I relied on: Rome2Rio, Bookaway, Maps.me
Colombian Food Guide: What to Eat in South America’s Tastiest Country
I’ll be honest: when I arrived in Bogotá, I had no idea what Colombian food was. I assumed it would be like Mexican food — I was wrong (but in the best way).
Colombian food is warm, comforting, full of variety, and deeply regional. Every city, mountain town, or coastal village has its own dish to show off.
Let me walk you through what I personally tried — and what you have to taste if you’re visiting.
What Is Colombia Known for Food-Wise?
Colombia is known for hearty stews, fried snacks, sweet tropical fruits, and some of the best coffee in the world. From the Andes to the Caribbean coast, the food changes with the landscape — but the soul stays the same: simple, filling, and made with love.
Whether it’s breakfast in a Bogotá café or dinner on the beach in Cartagena, every meal feels homemade.
Top 10 Traditional Colombian Dishes You Must Try
Here’s what stood out most to me while traveling through Colombia:
1. Arepas
Cornmeal patties — sometimes cheesy, sometimes stuffed. You’ll find these everywhere.
Try it in: Medellín with melted cheese and butter.
2. Ajiaco
A hearty chicken-and-potato soup that’s perfect for Bogotá’s chilly altitude.
Secret: Locals add cream and capers at the end. Game changer.
3. Bandeja Paisa
Colombia’s most famous dish. It’s a massive plate: beans, rice, fried plantains, chorizo, avocado, and chicharrón (crispy pork belly).
Tip: Go hungry. Really hungry.
4. Empanadas
Corn-flour turnovers filled with beef, chicken, or potatoes — fried golden.
Where: Grab one from any street vendor. They’re cheap and addictive.
5. Tamales Tolimenses
Banana-leaf-wrapped bundles of corn dough, meat, carrots, and spices.
Had it in: A small village outside Ibagué — unforgettable.
6. Patacones
Crispy fried plantain discs served with garlic sauce or hogao (onion-tomato sauce).
Pairs well with: Any meal, honestly.
7. Lechona
Slow-roasted stuffed pork — crispy outside, soft inside.
Popular around: Tolima and festive events.
8. Changua
Breakfast soup made with milk, eggs, and cilantro.
Weird at first, but comforting on a rainy morning in the Andes.
9. Cazuela de Mariscos
Seafood stew popular on the coast. Creamy, spicy, and full of shrimp, clams, and squid.
Try it in: Cartagena or Santa Marta.
10. Fresh Tropical Fruit
Papaya, guanábana, passion fruit, lulo, and more.
I had the freshest fruit juices daily for under $1.
What’s a Typical Colombian Meal Like?
A typical Colombian day of eating looks like this:
| Meal | What to Expect |
| Breakfast | Arepa, eggs, hot chocolate or coffee |
| Lunch | Soup + rice + meat + salad (biggest meal) |
| Dinner | Something light — maybe an empanada or soup |
I found lunch menus (menú del día) for $2–$3 across the country. They often include soup, a main dish, drink, and dessert.
Food Is Culture in Colombia
Colombians eat with pride. I was invited into homes, farms, and roadside cafés — and the hospitality was unmatched.
- Family meals are huge, especially on Sundays.
- Food is tied to celebrations, like Christmas tamales and Easter sweets.
- Every region has its own twist — Caribbean coast vs. mountain cities.
Whether you’re in Bogotá or Bucaramanga, food is the way locals share who they are.
Bonus: What I Learned About Colombian Food on the Road
- Don’t expect spicy — Colombian food is flavorful but rarely hot
- Juice is everywhere — fresh fruit juices with lunch are standard
- Snacks are sacred — try
buñuelos(cheese balls) andpandebonos - Coffee is king — but ironically, the best beans are often exported (so go to specialty cafés)
Festivals & Cultural Traditions That Bring South America to Life
South America doesn’t just celebrate — it erupts with rhythm, color, and meaning. From the streets of Rio to the mountains of Peru, every country expresses its identity through festivals that reflect deep-rooted traditions and bold joy.
Must-See Cultural Festivals in South America
- Carnival in Brazil – Samba, parades, and costumes flood the streets. I danced until my feet gave up in Salvador — and I’d do it again.
- Inti Raymi in Peru – The Festival of the Sun, held in Cusco, honors Incan heritage with theatrical processions.
- Barranquilla Carnival – Colombia’s largest celebration outside of Rio. Think masks, music, and non-stop cumbia beats.
- La Tirana in Chile – A spiritual blend of Andean and Catholic traditions in the desert north.
- Fiesta de la Vendimia (Argentina) – A wine harvest festival full of music, folklore, and (yes) amazing Malbec.
Local Traditions That Stay With You
- I shared tamales during Christmas in Bogotá with a host family — their warmth felt like a second home.
- In Bolivia, I stumbled into a candlelit Day of the Dead procession, quiet and powerful.
- In Ecuador, farmers celebrated the solstice with offerings to Pachamama, the Earth goddess.
South American traditions mix indigenous beliefs, Catholic rituals, music, and food — always community-first and full of soul.
A Continent That Dances
From Argentina’s tango to Colombia’s cumbia, rhythm flows everywhere.
Top regional sounds to catch:
- Cumbia & Vallenato (Colombia)
- Samba & Forró (Brazil)
- Andean flute music (Peru, Bolivia)
Geography & Natural Wonders of South America You Have to See to Believe
South America isn’t just beautiful — it’s wild, raw, and absolutely humbling. From sky-piercing peaks to endless rivers and alien deserts, this continent is a playground for nature lovers and geography nerds alike.
I didn’t expect to be so blown away — but every turn revealed something I’d never seen before.
Climb the Highest Peaks
- Aconcagua in Argentina is the highest mountain in South America (6,961 m / 22,838 ft). I didn’t summit it — but even seeing it from a distance left me breathless.
- The Andes stretch along the entire western edge, offering surreal hikes from Colombia to Patagonia.
Bonus: In Bolivia, I hiked near Illimani, a sacred mountain locals believe watches over La Paz.
Explore Otherworldly Deserts & Highlands
- The Atacama Desert in Chile is the driest place on Earth — think salt flats, flamingos, and stargazing so clear you’ll feel small.
- The Pampas in Argentina are flatlands filled with gauchos (cowboys) and golden grass.
- The Guiana Highlands, stretching through Venezuela, Guyana, and Brazil, are home to epic waterfalls like Angel Falls — the highest in the world.
Discover Powerful Rivers & Lakes
- The Amazon River, wide as a sea, is the continent’s artery — and the surrounding rainforest feels like stepping into another world.
- I kayaked in the Orinoco Delta, where silence was broken only by howler monkeys.
- Lake Titicaca, between Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world — its stillness is unforgettable.
Why This Matters to Travelers
South America’s natural wonders aren’t just scenery — they shape how people live, eat, travel, and celebrate.
From ancient trails in the Andes to jungle lodges along the Amazon, nature is everywhere here. And it’s waiting for you.
Language, Fast Facts & Local Insights Travelers Always Ask
Before I started traveling across South America, I had a ton of questions. What languages do people actually speak? Will anyone understand English? What should I expect from daily life?
Here’s what I found out — plus some tips I wish someone had told me earlier.
Languages Spoken in South America
Spanish is spoken in nearly every country in South America — but it’s not the only language.
- Portuguese dominates in Brazil.
- Quechua & Aymara are still widely spoken in parts of Peru and Bolivia.
- English is the official language of Guyana.
- You’ll also hear Dutch (Suriname) and French (French Guiana).
Pro tip: Even just learning “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” in Spanish made locals open up and smile. It really does go a long way.
Local Travel Tips I Wish I Knew Sooner
- Not everywhere is warm. Bogotá, Quito, and La Paz are all at high altitudes — pack layers!
- You can’t drive straight from Panama to Colombia. The Darién Gap interrupts the Pan-American Highway.
- Not all countries are cheap. Budget travel is great in Bolivia and Ecuador. Brazil and Chile? Less so.
- Internet is surprisingly reliable in most cities, especially in Colombia and Argentina. Even Patagonia had decent Wi-Fi in cafés.
If you want to travel confidently and respectfully in South America, understanding these basics makes all the difference. Locals notice when you try — and when you don’t. It’s not just about being a tourist. It’s about being a curious, kind traveler who connects with culture beyond Instagram
Why South America Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
If you’ve ever dreamed of wild landscapes, ancient ruins, hidden beaches, and unforgettable meals — South America delivers. And if you ask me? It delivers big.
I traveled across this continent with a backpack, a notebook, and a head full of curiosity. What I found were not just destinations — but moments: dancing at a midnight carnival in Colombia, hiking through the silence of Patagonia, and sipping mango juice with strangers who became friends.
From Machu Picchu to the Amazon, from food stalls to festivals — this guide is just the beginning.
Because the best places aren’t always the most famous — they’re just the ones you find when you go looking.
Happy travels,
