From diverse cultures and ancient ruins to epic landscapes and world-class wine regions, South America is one of the most beautiful continents in the world. It’s home to 12 independent countries and 3 overseas territories, each with their own unique heritage and natural treasures.
Take a trip to South America and you’ll be amazed by what you see. Foodies and wine lovers will enjoy trips to places like Bogotá, Buenos Aires, and the Mendoza wine region. Avid hikers and backpackers will fall in love with the Tierra del Fuego (land of fire) in Patagonia. And don’t forget the abounding wildlife found in the Galápagos Islands. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or the winter (which are flipped in the Southern Hemisphere), there’s no shortage of unique things to do in South America.
Top Experiences in South America
Here are my top picks for bucket list experiences and things to do across this vast continent:
- Explore the Inca citadel ruins at Machu Picchu
- Spot rare wildlife in the Galápagos Islands
- Experience Carnival in Brazil
- Taste high quality wines in Mendoza and Maipo Valley wine regions
- Check out the largest waterfall in the world at Iguazú Falls
- Tour Colombia’s coffee region
- Explore the Amazon rainforest in South America
- Go stargazing in the Atacama Desert
- Look out over Rio de Janeiro from the Christ the Redeemer Statue
- Hike to Rainbow Mountain in Peru
- Visit the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia
- Learn the Salsa dance in Colombia
- Go sailing on Lake Titicaca
Looking for more unique places and experiences across this continent? You’ve come to the right place. Here are my travel guides, itineraries, and other articles of South America:
