Updated: April 2020
Vibrant, diverse, and completely captivating, South America is unlike anywhere else you have ever been. From the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean coastline to the rugged Andes Mountains, there is so much to see and do in South America.
Here are ten incredible adventures to have in South America!
Cycle the World’s Deadliest Road
Attention, thrill-seekers! I’ve got the trip for you. Known as The Death Road, there is an insane cycling adventure waiting for you in Bolivia. I faced my fear of heights head-on there and it was an incredible experience.
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See the Iguazu Falls
Where the edges of Paraguay and Argentina meet Brazil, you will find the gorgeous Iguazu Falls. Dwarfing Niagara Falls, this massive system of waterfalls is the largest on the planet. It’s well worth the trip to stand in awe in front of this remarkable natural wonder.
Rainbow Mountain
The Ausangate Trek
Not to be overlooked by Peru‘s Vinicunca, a.k.a. The Rainbow Mountain—literally worshipped for its beauty—the holy mountain Ausangate in the Andres is a popular and absolutely stunning trek.
Since before Inca time, this important Peruvian mountain has been a place of worship and locals still venture to the remote mountain to make offerings!
Dive in the Galapagos
Universally recognized as one of the best dive sites on earth, the Galapagos Islands are a must-see. Whether you are a diving pro or just getting your feet wet, the waters here will blow your mind.
Explore the dynamic world of life underwater, say hello to a sea lion, and then come up to admire the countless other animals that call the Galapagos home.
Torres Del Paine National Park
The 9,462-foot granite pillars of Torres del Paine are the highlight of South America’s most beautiful national park. Surrounded by sapphire lakes and emerald forests, the Torres Del Paine National Park in Patagonia, is a nature lover’s dream come true.
If you are bored with city breaks, look no further than this Chilean national treasure.
Read More: The Ultimate Hiking Guide to Torres del Paine, Chile
Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Reaching the iconic Machu Picchu after an intense trek down the Inca Trail is indescribable. No matter how many pictures you have seen of this world-renowned site, you can’t imagine the sheer beauty of it until you hit the Inca Trail.
Visit Angel Falls
Nestled in Canaima National Park, Angel Falls is the world’s tallest waterfall at an impressive 3,212 feet tall. Visiting the falls is the perfect excuse for a Venezuelan adventure.
Hike the breathtaking Tepuys Mountains alongside the rivers, lakes, forests, and savannahs until you reach the unmissable Angel Falls.
Easter Island
Home to the iconic Moai statues, Easter Island is completely captivating. Technically part of Chile, this Polynesian island is the ideal spot for eco-travel.
Rent a bike or go horseback riding, and take in the archaeological sites on one of the planet’s most remote islands.
The Falkland Islands
With king penguins, gentoo penguins, rockhopper penguins, Magellanic penguins, and macaroni penguins, the Falkland Islands is the place to get up close and personal with these adorable animals. In fact, more than half a million penguin families live on The Falkland Islands.
Come ready to take an endless stream of selfies!
Uyuni Salt Flats
Did you know that Bolivia has the world’s largest salt flats? Home to an incredibly rare ecosystem and countless pink flamingos, this 6,800-square-mile salt flat in Uyuni, Bolivia is otherworldly.
From La Ruta de Las Laguna, you can follow the sandy, high-altitude road into a dreamy landscape that you have to see to believe.
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What adventures in South America would you recommend to travelers? Let me know in the comments below!
Great blog! I loved your site, congratulations job!
I love the variety of outdoor things to do in South America. Great article! I love what you put “If you are bored of city breaks…” – exactly. It’s so refreshing to see national parks that are unique and exciting. Often its those types of things we remember most positively later on after the trip is over, more than the indoor or city things.
Agreed! Venturing out into nature never gets boring and in fact, reminds you of just how much beauty there is to be found + to explore. I always find myself inspired and invigorated after wandering through a national park 🙂