Most of us dream and plan trips to Europe, America, and Asia, but not everyone considers South America to be on their bucket list. South America is renowned for its unique wildlife, natural beauty, and remarkable landscapes. You may be familiar with popular attractions like Machu Picchu but there are many amazing experiences and places to visit in South America.
Here are the top destinations you should visit to experience South America if you do decide to pack your bags and go there. We have created the best South America bucket list to get you started on planning your trip.

Places to visit in South America
- Bolivia
- Ecuador
- Colombia
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Venezuela
- Peru
- Chile
Also Read: Discovering America: The Best Group Tour Destinations in the USA
1. Bolivia
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With its unmatched natural beauty, rugged terrain, and intricate yet exciting landscape – Bolivia is a diverse and fascinating country that is unique in South America. Bolivia is a land of contrasts that will astound you, from the towering Andes to the lush Amazon jungle. The largest salt lake in the world, the Salar de Uyuni, is one of Bolivia’s most beautiful sights.
This surreal location is home to a variety of species, including vibrant pink flamingos, and features an endless stretch of white salt. With so much to offer, it’s clear that it is one of the most famous places to visit in South America!
Things to do in Bolivia
- Visit Salar de Uyuni
- Get lost in the Amazon rainforest.
- Visit Lake Titicaca and the sun’s cradle.
- Tour La Paz
- See the sunset at the Valley of the Moon
Also Read: Statue of Liberty USA: A Journey Through American History!
2. Ecuador
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Ecuador is one of the most famous places to visit in South America. One of nature’s best treasures can be found here. Despite its small size compared to its nearby countries, the country offers an incredible array of cultural attractions, with numerous sites and cities designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The country offers everything from an exciting safari on the eastern side of the Amazon and admiring the diverse wildlife on Galapagos Island, to mountain biking on a volcano, and strolling along the white sand beaches of the Pacific Coast. Ecuador is an ideal vacation destination due to its abundance of biodiversity.
Things to do in Ecuador
- Explore the Galapagos Islands for Wildlife Encounters.
- Climb an Ecuadorian Volcano
- Discover Ecuador’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Quito and Cuenca.
- Travel over the Andes via scenic rail.
- Bird watching at Mindo Cloud Forest
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3. Colombia
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Colombia, popularly known as the entry point to South America, is one of the world’s most traditional and geographically varied countries. Thanks to its stunning Andean peaks, extensive coffee plantations, and the sunny Caribbean coast, Columbia offers tourists a range of experiences.
The best way to experience all that Columbia has to offer is with South America trip packages. Enjoy the colonial elegance of Cartagena or unwind on Caribbean and Pacific beaches. Visit the colonial Bogota, indulge in the spring of Medellin, savor the exuberance of Cali, or simply go on an Andean and Amazonian adventure.
Things to do in Colombia
- Discover the old town of Cartagena
- Hike Tayrona National Park
- Visit the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá
- Mud-bathing at Totumo Volcano
- Admire street art in Bogota
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4. Brazil
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It is impossible to describe Brazil in a few lines. The largest nation in South America, it is also home to glamorous towns like Rio de Janeiro, where the Wonder of the World Christ the Redeemer monument is located, the Amazon River and rainforest, and a wealth of lush and untamed greenery.
Tourists who love the outdoors will find Brazil to be a haven since it has the greatest diversity of plant and animal species in the world. Iguaz Falls, which is enormous and breathtaking, is also located here. In other words, your trip to Brazil will require more than a week to fully explore this vast and diverse country.
Most Brazil tour packages include trips to the country’s most well-known attractions and tourist hotspots, giving you a chance to experience the country’s distinctive culture, rich history, and beautiful nature.
Things to do in Brazil
- Watch the Samba dance in Rio de Janeiro.
- Witness the spectacular beauty of the Iguazu Falls.
- Discover the thriving art scene of Sao Paulo
- Take in the views from Sugarloaf Mountain
- Unwind on the Copacabana beach
Also Read: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Everything You Need to Know for an Unforgettable Trip
5. Argentina
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Argentina is the second-largest nation in Latin America. The country is blessed with a wide variety of scenery, from the glaciers in Patagonia to the grasslands of the Pampas, making it a picturesque getaway for tourists of all types. With Argentina tour packages, tourists can experience a wide range of activities, from exploring cities like Buenos Aires to dancing to the tunes of Tango.
The Annual Grand Carnival, a vibrant and exciting event held in various cities throughout the country, is one of the highlights of visiting Argentina. Argentina is a stunningly gorgeous nation with a rich history, tradition, and cuisine, making it a must-visit place for history fans, wine lovers, foodies, and adventure seekers.
Things to do in Argentina
- Explore the Andes Mountains
- Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier
- Take a tango lesson in Buenos Aires
- Enjoy a traditional mate
- Visit the wine regions of Mendoza
6. Venezuela
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Venezuela is an amazing South American country known for its diverse landscapes and friendly locals. A beach vacation in this country offers you to soak up the sun on the beautiful Caribbean Coast featuring miles of sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Experiences in Venezuela are widely diverse, ranging from exploring the Amazon rainforest to swimming in the calm Caribbean Sea.
Venezuela offers more Caribbean coastline than any other country. It features virgin tropical rainforests home to indigenous tribes, the Guayana region with ancient rock formations, and the highest waterfalls in the world.
Things to do in Venezuela
- Discover the Amazon Rainforest
- Visit the Andes Mountains
- Explore Caracas
- Visit Angel Falls
- Have fun on Margarita Island
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7. Peru
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Peru is South America’s third-largest country, and while Machu Picchu and everything Inca make it a must-see on bucket lists, many other Peruvian experiences are worth exploring. The colonial city of Cusco, which once served as the Incan Empire’s capital, is home to several Incan ruins.
The vibrant marketplaces of Lima – the capital city, provide a look into the vivid customs and traditions of Peru for people who are interested in that culture. Stunning beaches on its northern coast, imposing Andean peaks, and the lush Amazon rainforest, are just a few of the varied landscapes found in Peru.
Peru tour packages are ideal for those who wish to have a genuinely unique and memorable journey because there is so much to see and do there.
Things to do in Peru
- Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Explore Cusco
- Visit Machu Picchu
- Explore Lake Titicaca
- Trek to the Andes
Also Read: Machu Picchu, Peru: Your Ultimate Guide to the Lost City!
8. Chile
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This long South American country is home to glaciers and deserts, idyllic beaches and remote islands, and captivating culture. Chile’s lengthy coastline, which is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches and picturesque routes in the world, is one of its outstanding attractions.
Santiago – the capital city is home to several museums, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural events for those interested in Chilean history. What truly distinguish Chile is its remote islands, particularly Easter Island, one of the world’s most isolated islands known for its mysterious Moai statues.
Things to do in Chile
- Drive the Atacama Desert
- Visit Easter Island
- Hike in Torres del Paine National Park
- Visit the Marble Caves
- Visit the Rapa Nui National Park
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Conclusion
After reading the above, decide which of these appeals to you and then find your perfect South America tour packages. Are you dreaming of exploring the Amazon Rain forest, Machu Picchu, or Rio?
With Flamingo Travels, you may unearth the heart of a stunning continent and find the best beyond the most well-known sights.