Blending rich cultures with diverse natural landscapes and historic pasts makes up the South American continent. Comprising twelve sovereign countries, the continent is the world’s fourth largest and is home to a variety of globally renowned landforms and monuments to entice international travellers. No matter whether it’s a special occasion or just an excuse to bond amid new climates with your loved ones, the gems making up South America are well worth longer travel days and extra planning. Retreat away from everyday chaos on a cross-continent or single-country trip and see just how much is on offer on this side of the globe.
Here are five top pick destinations for travel in South America.
Brazil
Visit one of the most vibrant countries on the continent, if not the world. Brazil is bustling with kaleidoscopic colour across both the world-renowned metropolises and the renowned rainforest ecosystems. Visit Rio de Janeiro early on in the year for a chance to get involved in the globally renowned Carnival festival, which hosts a wealth of lively street parties, samba parades, and vibrant costumes.
Rio itself is like a whole new country, with each neighbourhood displaying its own distinct charm and local traditions. If you’re after energetic nightlife scenes, Lapa is nothing short of spectacular. Meanwhile, Santa Teresa is more relaxed, hosting a laid-back bohemian vibe.
The capital city, Brasilia, is a futuristic world of architecture and contemporary urban planning. As well as being the political hub and bustling modern infrastructure, the city is still home to old-town appeal in classic architecture like the intricate façades of the Cathedral of Brasilia.
Manaus is the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest, where you can experience everything from guided jungle tours to river cruises and wildlife spotting. See the phenomenal sight of the dark Rio Negro and sandy-toned Solimões River meeting, as the colours surprisingly don’t immediately mix. For days at the beach, the sands of Porto de Galinhas near the vibrant city of Recife are lined with natural rock pools and crystal-clear waters.
Chile
Uniquely long and narrow, Chile is a much lesser-known tourist hotspot within the South American makeup. That’s not to say it’s any less worthy of your travel time and money. From arid deserts to lush rainforests, coastlines and everything in between, get ready to embrace the trip of a lifetime.
Santiago, the vibrant capital, provides a seamless blend of rich heritage and culture, as well as contemporary modern attractions. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, the city is at valley level, so always be sure to look up at the beauty of the towering greenery above!
Feel like you’ve been transported to Europe at the Plaza de Armas historic square in the centre. Lined with significant locales like the Metropolitan Cathedral and Palacio de La Rel Audiencia, gives it the traditional appeal of luxury with intricately designed, long-standing façades.
The most curious can take a tour of the presidential residence and government headquarters of La Moneda Palace, where travellers can learn about the history of the building’s role in Chilean politics of the past and today.
From the capital, head to the colourful port town of Valparaiso. The hillside land masses descend to the stunning coastline and port zone. Meander up the iconic hillsides of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepicón, where colourful houses home to locals and streets are equally lined with historic buildings, charming cafes, boutiques and galleries worth exploring.
There are various neighbourhoods to see, including the UNESCO-protected Barrio Histórico centre. This hugely unique urban layout is littered with vibrant street art and murals to awe at.
Uruguay
If you’re wanting to return home feeling rejuvenated and relaxed, soak up the serenity of Uruguay! Connecting rich cultural heritage with beautiful coastlines makes for the most relaxed atmosphere guaranteed to please. Punta del Este is known for the most sublime sand stretches, like Playa Brava which is also famous for its sculpture known as ‘The Hand’.
After mornings lazing on paradise-feel sands, meander inland to the trendy distinct of La Barra, popular with both locals and international tourists thanks to its array of vibrant shops, restaurants and bars.
Embrace such luxury vacations in South America here, and also consider the unspoilt land of Rocha which is just south of the Brazilian border. Hire a classic 4×4 and uncover an unplugged retreat in a wooden rancho nestled deep within a sandy peninsula.
Peru
Culture vultures, get ready to be amazed. Head to the radiance of Lima, the capital city, to gain the perfect trip of both historical learning and natural wonder to marvel at. Plaza Mayor, the central square, is a great starting point for city exploration, lined with important buildings in history like the Cathedral and Archbishop’s Palace.
In the Barranco neighbourhood, the ‘Bridge of Sighs’ connects local legends and equally provides stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty.
Take a boat tour to the nearby Palomino Islands, where you can marvel at Sea Lions and rare Bird species in their natural habitats. On a tour trip here, you even get the opportunity to swim with the Sea Lions. Let new companionship form with these charismatic creatures.
Bolivia
Home to great expanses of the Amazon Rainforest, Bolivia is the host with the most when it comes to natural exploration. See the natural wonder of the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni and the classic Flamingo-attractor of Laguna Colorada, which is a striking red lake. Get close to the dreamy bird here and gaze out at the arid desert surrounding.
Protect the delicacy of the greenery in the country and research the wealth of eco-tourism on offer in the Amazon Rainforest segment. The Madidi National Park is one of the globe’s best-protected wildlife districts, home to Indigenous communities where you can neighbour in luxury eco-lodges. See wild cats like Jaguars and Otters that also call this distinct landscape home.
Summary
South America’s intricate natural landscapes and cultural appeal, make anywhere in the continent glorious to visit. Travel here for the most unforgettable memories to be made and return home feeling rejuvenated after spending such time in the astonishing natural world.
