Top 10 Things to do in South America

3 min readNov 15, 2020

The biggest rain forest, the highest capital city, the largest river, the tallest waterfall… South America has it all. Breathtaking natural attractions aside, the continent also boasts vibrant cities, unique cultures and adventure sports like no other. With so much to see and do it’s hard to know where to start but we’ve picked our top 10 things you shouldn’t miss.

Set sail to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Close-up view of a little Galapagos penguin swimming underwater. Galapagos Island. Ecuador

One of the only places left on earth where humans respect the boundaries of nature and animals are utterly oblivious to man, the Galapagos Islands are an unspoiled rarity. From swimming with sea lions to spotting giant turtles and pre-historic looking iguanas, following in Darwin’s footsteps doesn’t unfortunately come cheap but there’s nothing quite like it.

Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, needs no introduction. Arguably the best-known archaeological site in South America, some 2,500 tourists visit each day but it manages to remain its charm. Take the train or join a four-day trek through the Peruvian Andes to the historical marvel.

Get Snap Happy on Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

The world’s largest salt flat is one of the continent’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. The vast white desert, flanked by a dazzlingly-blue sky provides the perfect opportunity to play around with perspective shots making even the amateur photographer appear a pro. The salt flats are usually part of a 3–4 day tour from Chile to Bolivia, encompassing coloured lagoons, flamingos and hotels made entirely of salt.

Visit Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina

Higher than Niagara, wider than Victoria and arguably more striking than either, Iguazu Falls will not fail to impress. Straddling the Brazil-Argentina border and flanked by beautiful rain forest, you can visit from either side, take a helicopter or boat tour or simply marvel at the sheer force of the rushing water.

See a Tango Show in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Tango is at the heart and soul of Buenos Aires so going to the city without watching a show is like visiting Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. The distinctive form of music and dance is seductive, captivating and, simply put, a great night out.

Wander Through the Cobbled Streets of Cartagena, Colombia