Places to Visit in South America

A vacation in Peru would not be complete without a hike up the rocky mountainside of Machu Picchu by way of the Inca Trail. Well known for its breathtaking hilltop views and its archeological significance, this ancient citadel lies more than 8,000 feet above sea level. Its location was kept hidden for many years until its “discovery” in 1911. Though its exact purposes are unknown to this day, the ruins are a tribute to the relationship the Incans had with their environment. Its mystery and majesty attract nearly one million people annually, making it the most-visited site in Peru. Visitors should keep in mind that Machu Picchu is a sacred site and should be explored accordingly. Map

The Galapagos Islands are an isolated collection of volcanic islands located 620 miles off the South American country of Ecuador. The island itself and its surrounding waters, the point in which three ocean currents meet, are the foundation for the diverse and fascinating variety of animal species that can be found nowhere else on Earth. These include giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and flightless cormorants as well as varied species of finches. What’s even more intriguing about these islands is that although they all have comparable volcanic compositions, climate, and environments, each isle has its own unique creatures. A living laboratory, the Galapagos Islands offer visitors a comprehensive and interactive look into its unique biodiversity. Map

Buenos Aires is a city of Latin passion and European grandeur. Its vibrant energy draws visitors in and keeps them enthralled with art, architecture, gastronomy, nightlife, and music. Known for its increasingly dynamic food scene, the city features an array of delectable parrillas (steakhouses) that have managed to master the art of deliciously flavorful steaks cooked to perfection.

This is a city that never sleeps, with a thriving nightlife of diverse clubs, bars, and live-music venues, and is party central well into the morning hours. During the day the city shifts into a cultural and architectural haven with several opulent Italian and French-style palaces along streets boasting colorful murals, exquisite art galleries, and extraordinary museums.

Aruba is an island located 15 miles north of Venezuela, surrounded by the warm and tranquil waters of the southern Caribbean. This nearly 20-mile-long and 6-mile-wide island spans roughly 70 square miles and features some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, many of which are located in Oranjestad, the country’s capital. The island’s location below the hurricane belt and dry climate are huge draws for tourists. It’s a sunny and breezy island destination with very few rainy days. Aruba is home to many natural and man-made attractions both inland and along its coast, including Arikok National Park, the Bubali Bird Sanctuary, Divi Village Golf Course, Alhambra Casino, and iconic beaches Divi, Drulf, Bushiri, and Eagle. Map

Banos, Ecuador, is a mystical town nestled at the base of the Tungurahua volcano amidst majestic waterfalls, hot springs, and rivers. Frequently referred to as the “gateway to the Amazon,” it’s often the starting point for visitors who wish to explore the surrounding national parks. It’s known for its volcanos, including the active Tungurahua, which steadily flows lava and ash, as well as its numerous adventure activities. Visitors can mountain bike along the road from Baños to Punyo, soak in local hot springs, hike or horseback ride along Andean hills, and whitewater raft on the Patate and Pastaza rivers. Devil’s Cauldron (Pailon del Diablo) is a must-see, and the Swing at the End of the World, located at Casa de Arbol, is a must-do. Map

Quintessentially Patagonian, Bariloche is a beautiful Argentinian city located in the country’s Rio Negro province and surrounded by a diverse natural landscape. Nestled within Nahuel Huapi National Park, neighboring the Andes, it’s encircled by thousand-year-old forests, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-covered mountains. The area’s stunning and varied landscape provides visitors with a multitude of outdoor activities and adventures, including hiking, trekking, skiing, snowmobiling, sailing, diving, and snorkeling. The city’s energetic and vibrant nightlife of clubs and pubs, extraordinary gastronomy, and cultural attractions such as Our Lady of Nahuel Huapi Cathedral, Railroad Station, Virgin of the Snows, and St. Edward’s Chapel, add to its appeal. Map

The capital city of Columbia, Bogota is a multicultural metropolis with a colonial tradition. As the largest city in the country, it has a vibrant and engaging atmosphere in a sophisticated yet cool urban environment surrounded by snowy Andean peaks. There are several neighborhoods throughout the city, each offering their own unique style, ambiance, and activities, but one in particular is by far more popular than the others: La Candelaria. It’s the epicenter of most of Bogota’s traditional activities and attractions. The area is a potpourri of beautifully preserved and restored colonial era house museums, restaurants, hotels, and bars interspersed with 300-year-old churches, homes, and convents. Map

Watch this incredible video journey through South America.

Founded in 1533 by Pedro de Herida, Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dynamic natural landscapes, magnificent beaches, and colonial architecture. A vibrant culinary scene, energetic nightlife, and numerous cultural festivals offer lots to see and do. Wrapping around the Bay of Cartagena, it is one of the most enchanting and best preserved cities in the world. Walking through the city’s narrow cobblestone streets, visitors will find a diverse collection of churches, parks, museums, squares, and castles. Must-see sights include the Castle of San Felipe, the Clock Tower, and the Palace of the Inquisition. Its many scenic beaches provide visitors with opportunities to enjoy various water activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing. Map

Commonly known as the “archaeological capital of the Americas,” Cusco is a high-altitude Andean city where influences from the modern Western world collide with Andean indigenous traditions. It’s this world of contrasts that makes the small city so unique. Visitors can catch a city tour bus at the Plaza de Armas, which is the best way to get an overview of the city. Must-see attractions include gorgeous La Catedral, Incan Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), and Museo de Arte Precolombino. Considered the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco itself is often overlooked as simply a way station for those trekking the Inca Trail, but deserves its own exploration. The charming mountain villages of Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes between Cusco and Machu Picchu are other must-visit sites. Map

One of the world’s most remote islands, Easter Island resides off the coast of Chile in the Pacific Ocean, nearly halfway to Tahiti. It is best known for its centuries-old moai, giant stone statues that reflect the dramatic history of one of the world’s most secluded Polynesian cultures. While this mysterious and magical island seems more like an open-air museum than anything else, it is also a prominent watersports activity center with exceptional surfing, diving, and snorkeling opportunities. Equally exciting, it’s a natural oasis with boundless beauty where exploring via horseback, bicycle, or on foot is sure to please any traveler. Map