South America is a continent brimming with diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, making it an incredible continent to traverse on your own. From the Andes to the Amazon rainforest, this guide will explore five destinations that offer unforgettable experiences on your next adventure.
Colombia
Having shed its troubled past, Colombia has become a hotspot for solo travellers. This lively country is known for its welcoming people and colourful cities like Cartagena and Medellín.
Cartagena, with its well-preserved colonial architecture, offers a blend of history and modernity. Its walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site that will transport you back in time with its cobblestone streets and vibrant buildings. The lively atmosphere of Plaza de la Trinidad lights up evenings in the city, with street performances and delicious street food attracting both locals and tourists.
Once infamous for its crime rates, Medellín has transformed into a hub for digital nomads thanks to its pleasant climate and thriving music and urban art scene. Ride the innovative MetroCable for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Aburrá Valley. Explore the neighbourhood of Comuna 13 where striking street art fills each corner.
Additionally, the natural beauty of Tayrona National Park provides an escape into lush rainforests and pristine beaches by the Caribbean Sea. Take a hike through the dense jungles to uncover secluded bays that are perfect for snorkelling in the coast's crystal-clear waters.
Peru
No visit to Peru is complete without a trip to Machu Picchu, where you can watch the sunrise over the ruins of the nearly 600-year-old city. Join a four-day trek along the Inca Trail that leads to the ancient citadel; a challenge suitable for those seeking an adventure with unparalleled views.
Foodies should head to Lima – it's often touted as the gastronomic capital of South America. Lima's culinary scene is an eclectic fusion of traditional Peruvian ingredients and modern techniques, with world-renowned dining experiences available in restaurants like Central and Maido. While you're in the city, make sure you try out the ceviche and pisco sours.
Beyond the cities, you can immerse yourself in the Amazon rainforest to witness unique wildlife and interact with indigenous people. There is so much to learn from local guides in the world's largest tropical rainforest, such as the uses of traditional medicinal plants.
Brazil
As South America's largest country, Brazil offers an incredible array of experiences. Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are bustling cities filled with energy – perfect for making connections with like-minded people.
Visiting during Carnival will give you a chance to see Rio at its best. Samba music brings the streets to life, and the vibrant costumes resemble a kaleidoscope of colours. And when you're not partying, you can relax on Copacabana or Ipanema and drink fresh coconut water or a caipirinha. These iconic beaches are the perfect places for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching.
Nature lovers will be spellbound at Iguazu Falls – by the border with Argentina and Paraguay. Follow one of the numerous trails that lead to unmissable viewpoints for close-up encounters with the thundering cascades of water.
The Pantanal, meanwhile, is the biggest tropical wetland in the world and is home to wildlife including jaguars, maned wolves and capybaras. Joining a guided safari is the best way to spot these elusive creatures in their natural habitat.
Argentina
With its mix of European-influenced cities and rugged wilderness, Argentina is a sensational destination.
Head to Buenos Aires and take up one of the numerous opportunities to watch or participate in the tango. This passionate dance is a culmination of the city's history and culture and is an integral part of the Buenos Aires of today. You can join a milonga or take a tango class in one of the many schools to immerse yourself in the Latin rhythm.
If football is more you're thing, there's a huge number of clubs located in this sprawling metropolis, with Boca Juniors and River Plate being chief among them. Watching a match at La Bombonera or El Monumental is an exhilarating experience sure to excite anyone, football fan or not.
The wine regions of Mendoza are ideal for a more laidback time. With plenty of vineyards and world-class Malbecs to sample, a tour of the region is ideal for wine-lovers, not to mention the stunning backdrop of the Andes mountains.
But if it's something truly unique you're after, the breathtaking glaciers and mountains of Patagonia provide endless opportunities for exploration. The shadow of Mount Fitz Roy surrounds you as you kayak among icebergs and marvel at the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier.
Chile
In the north, the Atacama Desert boasts otherworldly landscapes and some of the best stargazing in the world. During the day, explore the salt flats, geysers and lunar-like valleys, and when night falls, you can spot the Milky Way in one of the clearest skies on the planet.
Santiago, meanwhile, offers numerous museums, parks and a booming arts culture. The Bellavista neighbourhood is a must-visit, filled with independent jewellery stores and unique art galleries as well as a superb nightlife scene. Head to the famous La Chascona, the former home of Nobel Prize winner Pablo Neruda.
For fresh seafood and traditional Chilean dishes, the city's central market (Mercado Central) is a bustling culinary hub.
Chile's emerging adventure tourism industry includes activities like skiing in the Andes, hiking through national parks, and exploring the remote wilderness. The Chilean Lake District caters to all outdoor enthusiasts, with its picturesque lakes and snow-capped volcanoes providing a variety of settings for thrilling adventures. Farther south lies the Torres del Paine National Park, where you will find some of the world's most spectacular trekking routes.
South America promises an unforgettable journey in each of these destinations. Whatever your preference, these wonderful countries provide both adventure and relaxation from the dramatic mountain ranges to the turquoise coastal waters.
