South America’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness make it a paradise for travelers. From ancient ruins to natural wonders, every corner of this continent offers something unique and awe-inspiring. Here are ten unforgettable experiences to add to your bucket list, each promising adventure, beauty, and memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Explore Machu Picchu by Hike or Train in Peru
Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire, is one of the most iconic destinations in the world. Perched at 2,430 meters above sea level, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the ingenuity and architectural brilliance of the Incas.
For adventure seekers, the Inca Trail is a must. This four-day trek takes you through lush cloud forests, ancient ruins, and breathtaking mountain scenery, culminating in a sunrise view of Machu Picchu. If hiking isn’t your style, the train ride from Cusco is a luxurious and scenic alternative. Either way, the journey to this mystical site is as unforgettable as the destination itself.
Find your hotel in Cusco with Around Travel to set up base for your Machu Picchu adventure.
2. Stand in Awe of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Overlooking Rio de Janeiro from the summit of Mount Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer is a symbol of faith, peace, and unity. The statue, made of soapstone and concrete, stands at nearly 100 feet tall and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
To reach the summit, visitors can take a scenic train ride through the Tijuca National Park, a lush rainforest teeming with wildlife. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Rio’s iconic landmarks, including Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach, and Guanabara Bay. Visit during sunrise or sunset to witness the statue bathed in golden light, a truly divine experience.
Whether you want to stay in the Copacabana neighborhood and be close to all the iconic landmarks, or in the upscale part of town at Barra Da Tijuca, Around Travel can help you find the perfect stay for your Rio adventure.
3. Snorkel with Unique Marine Life in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands are a living laboratory of evolution, home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife. Snorkeling here is like stepping into an underwater paradise. Imagine swimming alongside playful sea lions, gliding past graceful sea turtles, and marveling at vibrant schools of fish.
Notable snorkeling spots include Devil’s Crown, a submerged volcanic crater teeming with marine life, and Kicker Rock, where you might spot hammerhead sharks and rays. On land, explore the islands’ volcanic landscapes and meet giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas.
Start planning your trip with Around Travel for the best deals on flights, hotels, and cars.
4. Marvel at the Vastness of the Bolivian Salt Flats
Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, is a surreal landscape that defies imagination. Spanning over 10,000 square kilometers, this otherworldly expanse transforms with the seasons. During the dry season, the cracked salt crust creates a dazzling white horizon. In the wet season, a thin layer of water turns the flats into a massive mirror, reflecting the sky in stunning detail.
Beyond the flats, explore nearby attractions like the Train Cemetery, colorful lagoons filled with flamingos, and the eerie volcanic rock formations of the Siloli Desert. Don’t forget to take creative perspective photos that play with the flat, featureless landscape!
Book your stay with Around Travel for a seamless experience.
5. Witness the Power of Iguazú Falls on the Brazil-Argentina Border
Iguazú Falls, one of the most magnificent waterfall systems on the planet, is a spectacle of nature’s raw power. With over 275 cascades spanning nearly two miles, these falls straddle the border between Brazil and Argentina, offering unique perspectives from both sides.
On the Brazilian side, walk along elevated platforms for panoramic views of the falls, including the iconic Devil’s Throat. The Argentine side offers trails that bring you up close to the thunderous waters, where you can feel the spray on your face. For the ultimate adventure, take a boat tour that gets you right under the falls!
Find the best hotels near the waterfall on Around Travel for the most breathtaking views.
6. Go Whale Watching in Ushuaia, Argentina
Known as the “End of the World,” Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego is a gateway to Antarctica and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Whale-watching tours in the Beagle Channel offer a chance to see humpback whales, orcas, and southern right whales in their natural habitat.
The experience is especially magical during the migration season, from May to November, when these gentle giants travel through the region. Beyond whales, you’ll also encounter sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds. With snow-capped mountains and glaciers as a backdrop, this is one of the most picturesque wildlife experiences in South America.
Browse hotels in Ushuaia with Around Travel and find a stay with views of the South Atlantic Ocean.
7. Discover the Floating Laguna Cejar in Chile
Hidden in the heart of the Atacama Desert, Laguna Cejar is a tranquil saltwater lagoon that offers a unique floating experience. Its high salt concentration allows you to effortlessly float on the surface, much like the Dead Sea.
Surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes, including salt flats and distant volcanic peaks, Laguna Cejar is an oasis of serenity. Visit at sunset to see the surrounding landscape bathed in hues of pink and orange. The experience is both relaxing and surreal, making it a must-visit spot in Chile’s Atacama Desert.
Find a place to stay in the nearby town of San Pedro de Atacama with Around Travel and soak in the Laguna Cejar to your heart’s content.
8. Stargaze on an Astronomy Tour in the Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert is a stargazer’s paradise. Thanks to its high altitude, clear skies, and lack of light pollution, it offers some of the best conditions in the world for observing the cosmos.
Join an astronomy tour to peer through powerful telescopes and learn about constellations, planets, and the mysteries of the universe. Many tours are led by expert astronomers who share fascinating insights about the stars and galaxies. Seeing the Milky Way stretch across the sky in such vivid detail is a humbling and unforgettable experience.
9. Explore the Amazon Rainforest on a Cuyabeno Tour, Ecuador
The Amazon Rainforest, often called the “lungs of the Earth,” is a treasure trove of biodiversity. The Cuyabeno Reserve in Ecuador offers an immersive way to experience this natural wonder.
Explore the Amazon by canoe, winding through narrow waterways surrounded by dense jungle. Keep an eye out for wildlife like pink river dolphins, sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds. Many tours also include visits to indigenous communities, where you can learn about their traditions, food, and way of life.
10. Walk on the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina
The Perito Moreno Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park, is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing. This massive ice field stretches for 250 square kilometers and offers visitors a chance to walk on its surface.
Guided trekking tours allow you to explore the glacier, complete with crevasses, ice caves, and deep blue pools. You’ll also hear the thunderous sound of ice calving into Lago Argentino, a reminder of the glacier’s dynamic nature. The experience is both thrilling and humbling, offering a close encounter with one of nature’s most powerful forces.
The nearby town of Calafate is perfect to set up base in to explore this icy terrain - find a hotel with Around Travel today.
From ancient ruins to natural wonders, South America offers a wealth of bucket list experiences. Whether you’re trekking through the Andes, exploring lush jungles, or marveling at surreal landscapes, each adventure will leave you in awe. Start planning your South American journey with Around Travel, and prepare for the trip of a lifetime!
Jonas DuPont
An avid traveler and seasoned writer who has journeyed across more than 40 countries, sharing his unique experiences and insights with a growing audience of adventure seekers and travel enthusiasts. With a passion for discovering hidden gems and immersing himself in diverse cultures, Jonas's travel blog combines practical tips, stunning photography, and captivating storytelling. Whether he's navigating bustling city streets or exploring remote landscapes, Jonas offers readers an authentic glimpse into the world's most fascinating destinations, inspiring them to embark on their own unforgettable journeys.
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