South America is an incredibly diverse continent, offering visitors a wide array of attractions and experiences. From the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains, the continent is home to some of the world’s most beautiful places.
Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of the continent or experience its vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in South America. Here are the 10 best countries and attractions to see in South America.
1. Brazil
Brazil is the largest country in South America and home to some of the continent’s most iconic attractions. From the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro to the lush Amazon rainforest, Brazil is a country of stunning contrasts.
The country also offers some of the continent’s best beaches, such as Copacabana and Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro. For a unique experience, check out the world-famous Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, which is held every year in February or March.
2. Peru
Peru is home to some of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, including Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The country also offers some of the most stunning scenery in South America, with the Andes mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and the Pacific coast all within easy reach.
The country is also home to some of the continent’s best cuisine, with dishes like ceviche, aji de gallina, and lomo saltado.
3. Argentina
Argentina is one of the most popular countries in South America, and for good reason. The country is home to some of the continent’s most iconic cities, such as Buenos Aires and Mendoza.
The country is also home to the Iguazu Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. For a unique experience, take a tango lesson in Buenos Aires or explore the country’s stunning wine regions.
4. Chile
Chile is a long and narrow country that stretches along the Pacific coast of South America. The country is home to some of the continent’s most stunning scenery, such as the Atacama Desert, the Patagonian fjords, and the Andes mountains.
Chile is also home to some of the continent’s best cities, such as Santiago and Valparaiso. For a unique experience, take a cruise to the remote Easter Island, which is home to some of the world’s most mysterious statues.
5. Colombia
Colombia is a vibrant and diverse country that is home to some of the continent’s most stunning scenery. From the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean coast, the country offers a wide array of attractions.
The country is also home to some of the continent’s best cities, such as Bogota and Cartagena. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Magdalena River, which runs through the heart of the country.
6. Ecuador
Ecuador is a small country that is home to some of the continent’s most stunning scenery. From the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains, the country offers a wide array of attractions.
The country is also home to some of the continent’s best cities, such as Quito and Cuenca. For a unique experience, take a trip to the Galapagos Islands, which are home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife.
7. Bolivia
Bolivia is a landlocked country that is home to some of the continent’s most stunning scenery. From the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest, the country offers a wide array of attractions.
The country is also home to some of the continent’s best cities, such as La Paz and Sucre. For a unique experience, take a trip to the Salar de Uyuni, which is the world’s largest salt flat.
8. Uruguay
Uruguay is a small country that is home to some of the continent’s most stunning scenery. From the beaches of Punta del Este to the rolling hills of the interior, the country offers a wide array of attractions.
The country is also home to some of the continent’s best cities, such as Montevideo and Colonia del Sacramento. For a unique experience, take a trip to the town of Punta del Diablo, which is known for its laid-back atmosphere.
9. Venezuela
Venezuela is a large country that is home to some of the continent’s most stunning scenery. From the Caribbean coast to the Andes mountains, the country offers a wide array of attractions.
The country is also home to some of the continent’s best cities, such as Caracas and Maracaibo. For a unique experience, take a trip to Angel Falls, which is the world’s highest waterfall.
10. Paraguay
Paraguay is a small landlocked country that is home to some of the continent’s most stunning scenery. From the Chaco region to the Iguazu Falls, the country offers a wide array of attractions.
The country is also home to some of the continent’s best cities, such as Asuncion and Ciudad del Este. For a unique experience, take a trip to the Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Paraná, which are some of the best-preserved colonial ruins in South America.