Things to Do in South America
South America captivates with extraordinary diversity—from the Amazon rainforest's unparalleled biodiversity to Patagonia's windswept glaciers, from Machu Picchu's mysterious Incan stonework to Rio de Janeiro's infectious energy. The continent's spine, the mighty Andes mountains, creates dramatic geography influencing culture, climate, and adventure opportunities. Indigenous civilizations including the Inca, Nazca, and countless others left architectural and cultural legacies still shaping modern life across countries where Spanish and Portuguese colonial heritage blends with indigenous traditions.
Whether you're drawn to trekking the Inca Trail through cloud forests to ancient citadels, dancing tango in Buenos Aires' passionate embrace, exploring Amazon lodges surrounded by wildlife, witnessing thunderous Iguazu Falls straddling multiple countries, savoring Peruvian gastronomic revolution, or discovering Chile's otherworldly Atacama Desert, South America rewards adventurous travelers with experiences combining natural grandeur, rich history, and warm hospitality impossible to replicate elsewhere.
South America's Diverse Destinations
Each South American country maintains distinct character shaped by indigenous heritage, colonial history, geography, and contemporary culture. Together they create a continent offering remarkable variety across landscapes, languages, and experiences.
Ecuador & Galápagos
Galápagos Islands' unique wildlife, Quito's colonial center, Amazon access, Andean markets including Otavalo, cloud forests, Cotopaxi volcano, and compact country enabling diverse experiences.
Colombia
Cartagena's Caribbean colonial charm, Bogotá's cultural vibrancy, coffee region plantations, Tayrona beaches, Ciudad Perdida jungle trek, salsa culture, and post-conflict tourism growth.
Bolivia
Uyuni Salt Flats' surreal expanse, La Paz highest capital city, Lake Titicaca shared with Peru, Potosí silver mining history, Death Road adventure, and indigenous culture preservation.
Uruguay
Montevideo's laid-back capital, Colonia del Sacramento colonial cobblestones, Punta del Este beaches, wine regions, gaucho culture, and sophisticated smaller-scale experiences.
Ancient Civilizations & Archaeological Wonders
Machu Picchu, Peru
The lost city of the Incas perches impossibly on a mountain ridge surrounded by cloud forests and dramatic peaks. Built in the 15th century then mysteriously abandoned, rediscovered in 1911, Machu Picchu represents Incan architectural and engineering mastery. Reach it via the classic 4-day Inca Trail trek through changing ecosystems, alternative treks like Salkantay, or train from Cusco through the Sacred Valley. Sunrise reveals the citadel emerging from mist, terraces cascading down slopes, and Temple of the Sun's precise stonework. Limited daily permits require advance booking months ahead.
Sacred Valley, Peru
Between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley showcases Incan agricultural terraces, fortresses, and living communities maintaining traditional ways. Pisac combines ruins with vibrant Sunday market. Ollantaytambo's massive fortress demonstrates military architecture and remains a functioning town laid out in Incan grid. Moray's circular agricultural terraces created microclimates for crop experimentation. Chinchero preserves weaving traditions using natural dyes and ancient techniques. Lower altitude than Cusco aids acclimatization before visiting higher sites.
Nazca Lines, Peru
Massive geoglyphs etched into desert floor 2,000+ years ago create animal, plant, and geometric designs visible only from the air. Spider, hummingbird, monkey, and other figures spanning hundreds of meters perplex archaeologists about their purpose and creation methods. Scenic flights from Nazca reveal these UNESCO World Heritage mysteries. Theories range from astronomical calendar to water cult rituals, but their exact meaning remains debated.
Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile
Remote Pacific island (technically part of Chile) famous for nearly 900 massive stone moai statues created by Polynesian settlers. These enigmatic figures with elongated heads watch over the landscape, some weighing 80+ tons. Rano Raraku quarry reveals carving processes. Ahu Tongariki's 15 restored moai create powerful sunrise silhouettes. Island's isolation, mysterious statue construction, and ecological collapse story fascinate visitors willing to travel 3,700km from Chilean mainland.
- Tiwanaku, Bolivia: Pre-Incan ruins near Lake Titicaca featuring monumental Gateway of the Sun and megalithic architecture
- Ciudad Perdida, Colombia: "Lost City" reached via challenging 4-6 day trek through jungle, predating Machu Picchu
- Chan Chan, Peru: Largest pre-Columbian adobe city, Chimú culture capital near Trujillo
- Ingapirca, Ecuador: Best-preserved Incan ruins in Ecuador combining Incan and Cañari architecture
Natural Spectacles & Wilderness
Amazon Rainforest
Earth's largest tropical rainforest spans multiple countries with Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia offering diverse access points. Lodge stays and river cruises reveal incredible biodiversity—pink river dolphins, howler monkeys, macaws, caimans, piranhas, and countless species found nowhere else. Indigenous communities share traditional knowledge about medicinal plants and forest living. Night walks expose nocturnal wildlife and bioluminescent fungi. Canopy walks provide treetop perspectives. Amazon represents over half of Earth's remaining rainforest, supporting unparalleled ecological complexity.
Iguazu Falls
275 cascades straddling Argentina-Brazil border create Earth's most powerful waterfall system. Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo) plunges water into misty abyss with deafening roar. Argentine side offers extensive walkways placing visitors within spray-drenched proximity to individual falls. Brazilian side provides panoramic perspectives revealing the full spectacle. Surrounding subtropical forest harbors toucans, coatis, and butterflies. Both countries deserve visits for complementary viewpoints of this UNESCO World Heritage wonder.
Patagonia
Shared by Argentina and Chile, Patagonia represents Southern Hemisphere's wildest landscapes. Perito Moreno Glacier calves icebergs into Lago Argentino with thunderous crashes. Torres del Paine's granite towers attract trekkers to W Circuit and O Circuit routes. Fitzroy region offers mountain scenery and climbing challenges. Tierra del Fuego marks land's end before Antarctica. Punta Arenas and Ushuaia serve as gateways. November-March provides best weather with longest daylight for exploration. Wind remains constant companion across the steppe.
Atacama Desert, Chile
World's driest desert creates Mars-like landscapes of salt flats, geysers, flamingo lagoons, and volcanic peaks. San Pedro de Atacama serves as adventure base for Valley of the Moon's lunar terrain, El Tatio Geysers' morning steam, Laguna Cejar's flotation, and otherworldly rock formations. Clear, dry air enables world-class stargazing—numerous observatories dot the region. Altitude (2,400m) requires acclimatization. Dramatic temperature swings from scorching days to freezing nights demand preparation.
- Pantanal, Brazil: World's largest wetland offers superior wildlife viewing compared to Amazon—jaguars, giant otters, capybaras, caimans
- Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina: Beyond Perito Moreno, includes Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers plus trekking opportunities
- Colca Canyon, Peru: One of world's deepest canyons features Andean condor viewing and terraced agriculture
- Angel Falls, Venezuela: World's tallest waterfall drops 979 meters in remote Canaima National Park
Cultural Experiences & South American Soul
Music, Dance & Passion
Tango in Buenos Aires: Argentina's passionate dance originated in working-class neighborhoods, now performed in elaborate shows and authentic milongas (dance halls). Take lessons, attend performances, or watch locals dance in San Telmo plazas. Tango expresses melancholy, nostalgia, and romance through intricate footwork and close embrace.
Samba in Rio: Brazil's infectious rhythm defines Carnival but pulses year-round through the city. Visit samba schools preparing for Carnival, attend lapa neighborhood street parties, or dance at clubs. African-Brazilian heritage combines with Portuguese influences creating uniquely Brazilian musical traditions including bossa nova, forró, and funk carioca.
Andean Music: Panpipes, charango (small guitar), and drums create haunting melodies echoing mountain landscapes. Hear traditional music in Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador markets, festivals, and performances preserving indigenous musical heritage.
Culinary Excellence
Peruvian Gastronomy: Lima ranks among world's top culinary destinations with innovative chefs elevating traditional ingredients. Ceviche (raw fish cured in citrus), anticuchos (grilled hearts), lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), and countless regional specialties showcase biodiversity from coast to mountains to jungle. Pisco sour cocktails accompany meals.
Argentine Beef & Wine: Asado (barbecue) ritual centers on world-class grass-fed beef grilled over wood coals. Mendoza, Salta, and other wine regions produce exceptional Malbec and other varietals. Wine-and-steak pairings represent culinary highlight.
Brazilian Flavors: Feijoada (black bean stew), moqueca (seafood stew), açaí bowls, pão de queijo (cheese bread), and regional specialties from Northeast to South showcase Portuguese, African, and indigenous fusion. Churrascarias serve endless grilled meats rodízio-style.
Indigenous & Local Cultures
- Quechua & Aymara Communities: Andean highlands preserve indigenous languages, textiles, agricultural traditions, and spiritual practices
- Gaucho Culture: Argentine and Uruguayan cowboys maintain horseback traditions, folk music, and estancia (ranch) lifestyle
- Afro-Brazilian Heritage: Salvador's Candomblé religion, capoeira martial art, and cuisine reflect African diaspora influence
- Mapuche People: Chilean and Argentine indigenous communities preserve language and traditions despite historical marginalization
- Amazon Tribes: Numerous indigenous groups maintain traditional lifestyles in rainforest, some welcoming respectful tourism
Altitude Acclimatization & Health Planning
High Altitude Destinations: Cusco (3,400m), La Paz (3,640m), Lake Titicaca (3,800m), and other Andean locations require acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness (soroche). Symptoms include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Serious cases can be dangerous.
Acclimatization Strategy: Spend 2-3 days at moderate altitude before ascending higher. Fly into Lima or other coastal cities, then gradually gain elevation. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol initially, eat light meals, and move slowly. Coca tea (mate de coca) helps many travelers. Prescription medication like Diamox can prevent symptoms—consult doctors before departure.
Itinerary Planning: Visit Sacred Valley (2,800m) before Cusco (3,400m) before Machu Picchu (2,400m). Descending to lower altitude after acclimatization enables comfortable Machu Picchu exploration. Never underestimate altitude effects—fitness level doesn't prevent susceptibility. Descend immediately if severe symptoms develop.
Planning Your South American Journey
Best Times to Visit
Peru & Andean Countries: Dry season April-October offers best trekking weather with clear skies. May-September sees peak tourism. Wet season November-March brings afternoon rains but greener landscapes and fewer crowds. Inca Trail closes February for maintenance.
Patagonia (Argentina/Chile): November-March provides warmest weather and longest days for trekking and exploring. Shoulder months (October, April) offer fewer tourists with acceptable weather. Winter (June-August) brings harsh conditions closing many trails.
Brazil & Tropical Regions: June-November generally offers drier weather in Amazon and Northeast. Rio Carnival (February/March) requires advance planning. Salvador's beaches suit December-March summer.
Southern Cone: Seasons reverse from Northern Hemisphere—summer runs December-March, winter June-August. Plan according to hemisphere location and specific activities.
Entry Requirements
Visas: Requirements vary significantly by country and nationality. Australians typically receive visa-free or visa-on-arrival for tourism in most South American countries. Brazil previously required advance visas but now offers visa waivers for many nationalities. Venezuela and some others may require visas—verify current requirements.
Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination required for Amazon regions and some countries. Proof of vaccination may be checked at borders. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccinations recommended. Malaria prophylaxis advised for certain lowland areas. Consult travel health clinics 6-8 weeks before departure.
Reciprocity Fees: Some countries previously charged reciprocity fees for certain nationalities (matching visa costs those countries charge South Americans). Most have been eliminated but verify current requirements.
Language Considerations
Spanish dominates South America except Brazil (Portuguese), Guyana (English), Suriname (Dutch), and French Guiana (French). Indigenous languages including Quechua, Aymara, and Guaraní spoken alongside Spanish in Andean countries.
English fluency varies—major tourist areas offer more English support, but learning basic Spanish phrases significantly enhances experiences. Translation apps help, though connectivity may be limited in remote areas. Guided tours often provide English-speaking guides.
Budget Considerations
South America generally offers excellent value compared to North America, Europe, or Australia. Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia provide especially economical options. Argentina and Chile cost more, approaching developed-world pricing in cities.
Accommodation ranges from budget hostels to luxury lodges. Domestic flights have improved affordability, though buses remain economical for shorter distances. Activities like Galápagos cruises and Patagonia lodges represent significant expenses. Eating local restaurants versus tourist-oriented spots dramatically affects costs.
Consider package tours for complex logistics (Machu Picchu permits, Amazon access, Patagonia remoteness) where expertise adds value beyond DIY planning.
Multi-Country South American Itineraries
South America's size means most visitors focus on specific regions rather than attempting comprehensive coverage:
- Classic Peru & Bolivia: Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, La Paz, Uyuni Salt Flats combines Incan heritage with Andean highlights
- Patagonia Explorer: Buenos Aires, El Calafate glaciers, Torres del Paine, Ushuaia creates southern wilderness journey spanning Argentina and Chile
- Brazil Highlights: Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls, Pantanal or Amazon creates diverse Brazilian experience from cities to nature
- Andes to Amazon: Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, then descend to Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos for Amazon rainforest contrast
- Southern Cone: Buenos Aires, Mendoza wine region, Santiago, Atacama Desert, Patagonia combines multiple countries
- Ecuador & Galápagos: Quito, Otavalo market, Galápagos cruise creates compact yet diverse nature-focused itinerary
- Colombia Circuit: Bogotá, coffee region, Cartagena showcases emerging destination's cultural and natural diversity
Related Travel Resources
Experience South America Thoughtfully
At Cooee Tours, we design private South American journeys that blend iconic destinations with authentic local experiences, managing complex logistics including altitude acclimatization, permit requirements, and regional expertise to ensure smooth, meaningful exploration across this extraordinary continent.
From securing limited Machu Picchu permits months in advance, planning optimal altitude progression to prevent sickness, selecting authentic Amazon lodges over tourist traps, timing Patagonia weather windows, to understanding cultural protocols when visiting indigenous communities, expert planning transforms South American complexity into confident travel enabling focus on extraordinary experiences rather than logistical challenges.
South America rewards travelers who approach it with cultural sensitivity, realistic pacing expectations, and willingness to embrace both the spectacular and the challenging. Whether planning a first Peruvian adventure to Machu Picchu, seeking Patagonian wilderness, combining multiple countries for comprehensive understanding, or designing specialized experiences around gastronomy, wildlife, or ancient civilizations, thoughtful itinerary design ensures transformative journeys across one of Earth's most captivating continents.