South America is a vibrant, contrasting continent rich with wildlife, pristine landscapes, mind-blowing beaches and colourful cultures. It’s hard to put into words the absolute splendour of South America, and it’s even harder to narrow down must-visit countries in the continent of wonder. Planning a trip can be daunting because each area deserves lengthy periods of exploration time ! Do you just do the beaches of Brazil? Do you only visit the wildlife dense areas such as the Pantanal? Do you just enjoy the food and cultures of Argentina? Do you plan a hiking holiday to explore picturesque Patagonia? Do you
So many places, so many questions and so little time ! When planning a holiday to South America, ask yourself one question : What is the aim of my holiday? Because – quite frankly – unless you have 6 months, you won’t be able to clock it all.
We’ve compiled a list of the most popular, easy-to-travel to countries in South America and listed their highlights. The list is ideal for first-time travellers to South America, and showcases the best of Brazil, Peru and Argentina. With so much to do, you might have to select just one country instead of discovering the best of South America !
Brazil
Viva Brazil ! An eclectic country rich in colour, wildlife and culture, there’s simply no stopping Brazil. Enjoy the party vibes of Rio carnival, soak up the exquisite atmosphere on the world-famous Ipanema beach flanked by protruding mountains, find jaguars and colourful birds in the Pantanal – the world’s largest tropical wetland area; stay in jungle huts in the Amazon, explore sultry Salvador and the romantic Bahia Coast; and trot around Sao Paulo, Brazil’s largest city and fashion capital.
Don’t Miss :
- A few nights in Rio visiting Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer Statue and exploring Ipanema Beach. A stay at the iconic Copacabana Hotel is highly recommended.
- The island of Ilha Grande should not be missed – it’s remote beach paradise not far from from Rio.
- A trip to the romantic Salvador da Bahia coastline for beachside splendour. The 900 km coastline is fondly referred to as the “state of happiness”. Coconut palms fringe the white sandy beaches and inland the national parks house waterfalls, caves, natural swimming pools and hiking trails.
- Stay in jungle huts in the Amazon rainforest and explore the region via boat or river tour.
- Do a trip to Igauzu Falls, the world’s largest waterfall system in the world, bordering 3 countries.
- Find the elusive and mighty jaguars, adorable capybara and giant otters in the inland water system that is the Pantanal.
Peru
Ah picturesque Peru! Peru is famous for the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and Lake Titcaca. Peru is the birthplace of colourful fabrics, hand-woven textiles and all things Alpaca. Uncover the mysteries of Lake Titicaca’s floating islands, the cobblestone streets and historical architecture of Cusco; and indulge in an array of adventure sports like surfing and trekking. Peru is still very much a traditional country with a strong Andean community.
Don’t Miss :
- The famous Inca city of Machu Picchu and all of the related Inca Trails.
- Sample the mouth watering food and flavours of Peru, a country famous for its cebiche !
- Stay in jungle huts in the Amazon rainforest and explore the region via boat or river tour.
- Enjoy the incredible city of Lima and head to Lunahuana, am area offering white water rafting and access to carpets of vineyards.
- Look at the completely strange yet enigmatic Nazca Lines etched into the desert landscapes of the coastal desert. These are unique drawings of animal and human figures.
Argentina
Argentina is famous for its endless landscapes, the vast icy area of Patagonia and one of the most beautiful cities in the world – Buenos Aires! Buenos Aires is classic, classy and the home of Tango. A city oozing charm and class, we’re not surprised visitors flock to this exquisite town. Argentina truly offers its visitors an array of things to do. It’s the country of wine, fishing, hiking, mountaineering, tango, and shopping. Explore Iguazú Falls, hike the Andes, photograph ice-fields in Patagonia, visit marine wildlife reserves and party up a storm while enjoying a Tango in Buenos Aires!
Don’t Miss :
- A Tango show in Buenos Aires, and visit to the colourful area of La Bocca.
- Explore Los Glaciares National Park in the Patagonia region, the place where you’ll spot ice-fields flanked by forests. Glaciers, parks and wildlife are on your doorstep. Cobalt lakes surround bright white ice-caps and there’s plenty of hiking trails in the area. This is where you’ll spot the famous Glaciar Perito Moreno.
- Península Valdés is one of South America’s top wildlife reserves and is also a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is here where you can spot whales, sea lions, elephant seals and more.
- Do a trip to Igauzu Falls, the world’s largest waterfall system in the world, bordering 3 countries.
- Explore wine country of Argentina and sample the famous Malbecs and Syrahs.
