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Published: 29-05-2023
South America has it all! South America is a large continent despite only having 12 countries. Air travel is the best way to get around the continent due to its size. While Spanish is the primary language in most countries, Brazil is a notable exception, with Portuguese as the national language. South America is home to the most biodiverse country in the world, Brazil. From party towns, to festivals, to iconic tourist destinations, and mind-blowing archaeological sites, here are just some of South America’s best places to visit in 2023.
Saqsaywaman, Cusco
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is one of the most-visited cities in South America. From world-class hotels to quiet little cafés, Rio has something for everyone. Emblematic attractions include Christ the Redeemer and the famous Sugarloaf Mountain, both of which offer stunning views over the city and ocean. The iconic beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana are always packed with people enjoying the ocean, swimming, and doing various water sports activities. Boat tours are available as well. With food options aplenty, as well as smaller towns near Rio de Janeiro if you need a break from city life. Rio offers a unique combination of hilly areas and the ocean, which is why it has such spectacular views.
Rio de Janeiro
Patagonia (Argentina)
Patagonia is blessed with Cobalt lakes, gigantic glaciers, emerald trees, and turquoise skies that stretch as far as the eye can see. In fact, Argentine Patagonia's vistas are so sweeping that Charles Darwin once described the region as "boundless." Visit Argentina's Lake District and you'll discover villages brushing against snowy mountain peaks. Travel east and you'll find whales gliding through Peninsula Valdés' marine wildlife sanctuary. Venture to Southern Patagonia, and you'll stumble upon deserts extending into rugged estancias (cattle ranges) and melting glaciers. If you continue south to the Chilean border at Cape Horn, you'll come across an expansive horizon reaching out to Antarctica's frosty edge. Patagonia's beauty knows no bounds. Rustic roads lead to dramatic natural wonders like Perito Moreno Glacier and Mount Fitz Roy. Look around this beautiful landscape and discover a region buzzing with life. Magellanic penguins and albatross mingle in the Punta Tombo wildlife reserve, while history survives on the walls of the Cave of the Hands.
Perito Moreno Glacier
Machu Picchu
As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is one of the top tourist destinations in South America. This ancient Inca archaeological site is fascinating and provides a deeper look into indigenous South American living culture and heritage. Found at an elevation of over 2000m Machu Picchu offers out-of-this-world views to anyone who visits. Since the number of permitted tourists per day is limited, it’s worth booking in advance. Machu Picchu is around 80 km from the city of Cusco and regular flights to Cusco are available from Lima, the capital of Peru.
Machu Picchu
The Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos archipelago sits approximately 900km west of mainland Ecuador and features more than 120 remote islands, islets, and rocks, begging to be explored. With so much to see and do across this remote string of islands, you'll have to be selective about which islands you choose to discover. To get acquainted with the Galapagos' famous giant tortoises, head to El Chato Tortoise Reserve or Rancho Primicias on Santa Cruz Island. Trek to the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn more about Darwin's work. If you would prefer a rendezvous with sea lions, continue east to San Cristóbal Island, where the cheery mammals engage in barking conversations along chalky white sands. With its untamed terrain and notoriously fearless creatures – from sea lions to seagoing lizards – the isolated isles of the Galapagos lure those looking for exhilarating wildlife encounters.
Blue Footed Boobies, Galapagos
Patagonia-Chile
With its aura of remote romance, wind-whipped Chilean Patagonia attracts those travelers with an eye for beauty and a zest for adventure. Icy glaciers plunge into emerald lakes; wild fjords snake through hardwood forests; and the Andes' dramatic peaks ascend into swirling clouds and mist. It's hardly surprising that Chilean Patagonia's fabled lands have lured Magellan, Darwin, and even Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Spend a day getting acquainted with the quirky Magellanic penguins congregating on Isla Magdalena. Then, continue south for jaw-dropping views of Tierra del Fuego's sky-high mountains, pristine glaciers, and verdant forests. When you're ready for some R&R, retreat to your cozy lodge to get energized with some fresh Patagonian air and a hearty supply of seafood and wine.
Chilean Patagonia
Lençóis Marenhenses National Park
Tucked away on the north coast of Brazil is Lençóis Marenhenses National Park, home to one of the country’s most spectacular natural marvels. Spread out over 383,000 acres you will discover one of the top dream destinations with endless stretches of undulating, windswept sand dunes and deep blue freshwater lagoons. In Portuguese, Lençóis Marenhenses literally means “bedsheets of Maranhão”, and after one glimpse of the blindingly white dunes, it’s easy to see how the area got its name. Due to its remote location, this extraordinary national park receives less than 5% of the number of visitors of the more popular natural attraction Iguaçu Falls. As such, the best way to explore the area is through a guided tour on a buggy or jeep. As the lakes are seasonal, the tours will take you to the fullest lakes depending on when you visit, where you can swim in the rainwater-filled lagoons.
Lençóis Marenhenses
Cusco, Peru
Cusco is not just a base for the local hike to Machu Picchu but also for the local vibe, rich history, and excellent food scene. Visit the Plaza de las Armas the most prominent square in Cusco, surrounded by beautiful churches and impressive colonial architecture. Stroll along many side streets coming off the main square teaming with life, street food, and colorful souvenirs. If you’re planning to buy something in Cusco, try one of the alpaca sweaters or huts. Make sure you walk slowly, as Cusco is situated at an altitude of 3,399 meters above sea level, and you may feel out of breath sooner than you think. For an impressive panoramic view over the entire town and surrounding areas, climb to the top of the bell tower at Saint Cristobal Church, located a few minutes walk from the town center.
Cusco, Peru
Torres del Paine
Reaching this remote national park in Chilean Patagonia isn't easy, but beholding the ice fields of Grey Glacier and the soaring peaks of the Cuernos del Paine is more than worth the trip. And with 448,000-plus acres of diverse land to explore, visitors will find boredom near impossible in this once-in-a-lifetime destination. Some of Torres del Paine's most popular trails include the challenging W Trek a multiday hike past stunning lakes, mountains, and glaciers, and the easier Mirador Las Torres hike. Before venturing into the wild, be sure to stock up on essentials in a nearby city like Puerto Natales. This hiker's haven is one of the best trekking destinations on the planet!
Torres del Paine
Cartagena
During the Spanish colonial period, Cartagena functioned as a key foothold for the Spanish empire in Colombia and South America. The coastal city's colonial walls (which began construction in 1586) defended against pirates, who were drawn by Cartagena's status as an economic hub. These walls were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, and they are now one of Cartagena's most well-known attractions, drawing history enthusiasts from around the world. The city boasts an astounding number of historical attractions in addition to its famous walls. Travelers can wander the streets taking in the architecture, or opt to spend an air-conditioned day in one of the many museums populating Cartagena. Plus, with the Caribbean Sea to the west and Cartagena Bay to the south, this South American city provides a number of pristine playas for even the most selective sun-seekers.
Cartagena Street
Easter Island
A bucket list destination for adventurous travelers, this remote island that belongs to Chilean territory, sits off of the coast of Chile and charms adventurers with its distinctive moai statues. These curious, well-preserved stone statues can be found throughout the island, but to ensure you don't miss the island's must-sees and unique history, hire a local guide to show you Rapa Nui National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also happens to have one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Of particular note is Rano Raraku, a volcanic crater that boasts 400 gigantic statues.
Easter Island
These are just some of the best places to visit in South America in 2023, however, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fabulous South American destinations. Contact us here for more information about the incredible places to go in South America in 2023!
