South America is home to many diverse cultures and spectacular landscapes. The destination offers you unmatched beauty, with the dramatic blend of rich history that the natives boast about. Whether you are looking for a calm and peaceful trip through the goldmine that is the Amazon rainforest, or want to trek the Andes, or experience the famous culinary and musical scenes, South America has a little bit for everyone. The place has so much to offer that you will get the abundance of forests and the dunes of deserts, all in the same place. To unlock the best side of South America's beautiful landscape and have an adventurous trip with your gang, why not visit a continent that has the beauty of all hidden within itself? In this post, you will get a list of the best adventurous destinations to travel in South America to taste speed, danger, and fire up your adventurous spirit.
Ciudad Perdida
Ciudad Perdida, meaning "the lost city," is an archaeological site in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia. The city was discovered in 1972 by a group of local treasure looters, Los Sepulveda. As interesting as the history of the city, Ciudad Perdida offers so much more than you could see on the surface. The city is built on a series of 168 terraces carved into the mountainside, making it ideal for adventure-seekers.
Duration: To experience the place at its best, it typically takes around 3 days or 4 nights.
Things to do: Tackling the suspended bridges and Zip-line trolleys, navigating river crossings and swimming, scaling a vertical moss-covered stone staircase of 1200 steps, meeting the indigenous communities of Kogi, Wiwa, Arhuaco, and Kankuamo, getting a first-hand experience, and spending a night in the open-air jungle camps.
Best time of year: Since the trek is challenging and located deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the ideal time to visit Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) is between December and March. These are the dry months of the year, so you will get clear trails and easy river crossings.
Tips to Consider:
- Be respectful to the locals. Do not take photos without permission, and do not overstep on their land.
- Must carry some dry bags to keep your belongings in them. This will help you to keep your backpack organized and travel with convenience.
- You should pack some swimsuits, as there are some amazing swimming spots along the routes.
- Carry some mosquito repellent with you on the hike, as you will find infectious insects along the way.
Lima, Peru
Lima is the largest city in Peru. The city is located on the Pacific coast, in the foothills of the Andes, on a flat coastal desert plain. The natives in the agricultural areas called it Limaq. Later, it became a significant city in the Viceroyalty of Peru. The city is a perfect blend of cultures, history, and iconic dishes. If you are looking to satiate the adventure seeker within you, then Lima is the ideal place for you.
Duration: If you want to spend most of the trip in Peru, an ideal trip will take 5-6 days, but you can easily extend it to more than 10 days.
Things to do: You can walk or bike the El Malecon Clifftop Path, go swimming with the sea lions at Callao and Palomino Islands, or explore The Fortaleza del Real Felipe, take a bike tour through the Miraflores or Barranco neighborhood, go paragliding flights in Costa Verde, take a free walking tour of the Centro Historico, and explore the Plaza de Armas.
Best time of year to visit Lima: December to April. The weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the boardwalks and beaches. You can also consider going in April-May or October-November, as these are the shoulder months that offer an ideal balance of pleasant temperatures.
Tips to Consider:
- You can either rely on ride-sharing apps or public transit for easy commuting.
- Plan your itinerary by considering traffic times, as it is Peru's largest and most populous city.
- Make sure you always carry some cash, as Peru is still very much a cash country.
- Learn some basic terminology to get through the day and travel easily.
- Follow the safety precautions to avoid any theft in Lima. Keep your belongings safe at all times.
- Do not haggle unnecessarily with the street vendors.
Bolivia
Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America that borders Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile, and Peru. Humans have inhabited the country for thousands of years. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the ancient Inca civilization ruled the area. The country has a rich history and staggering geographical diversity, with a strong emphasis on indigenous culture and dramatic landscapes. All the other factors add up to making Bolivia the best place for adventurous travelers.
Duration: For a first-time trip to Bolivia, it takes 8-10 days to experience its biodiversity, historical heritage, adventurous wonders, and rich culture.
Things to do: Bike to the Salt Flats of Uyuni, witness a Cholita wrestling match, mountain bike down the Death Road, rappel down an office building, wander around the valley of the moon, travel through the Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna, climb the Huayna Potosi, trek in the Santa Cruz de la Sierra, trek the other Inca trail, go caving in Uma Jalanta, and explore the jungles in Rurrenabaque.
Best time to visit: Bolivia is a country of climatic extremes, but the ideal time to visit the highland areas is April to October. You will see plenty of blue skies and sunrises. Also, there are several festivals that you can take part in and see the diversity.
Tips to Consider:
- Bolivia is a high-altitude region, and you will need some time to adjust, so avoid speeding through the itinerary.
- You should consult your doctor before traveling to Bolivia and take the necessary medications. Manage your water intake and avoid alcohol.
- Carry your high SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and hat with you all the time.
- Make sure that you have some cash with you, as cards are not always accepted.
- Be aware of the scams and fake police who will ask you for money and your passport. You can politely decline and visit the nearest police station.
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is the capital and the largest city of Argentina. The city has preserved its eclectic European architecture and rich cultural life. Buenos Aires is a multicultural city home to many ethnic groups, which has contributed to the city's culture and to the dialects prevalent in the city and other parts of the country. It is a hub where the sophisticated European elegance meets the thrilling South American adventure. To find the rush of adrenaline, all you need is to visit Buenos Aires.
Duration: To experience Buenos Aires without feeling rushed, plan a 4- to 5-day trip, and extend it as needed.
Things to do: Take a walking tour of El Centro, explore the north and south of Buenos Aires by biking through the lanes, attend or take part in a tango class/show, watch polo at the Campo Argentino de Polo, indulge in the plays and dramas at the Teatro Ciego, hike in Puerto Madero, paragliding in Greater Buenos Aires, biking the Southern Circuit and go horse riding at the Estancia Los Dos Hermanos.
Best time to visit: You can plan your trip to Buenos Aires between April and June or between September and November. With thin crowds, you will get mild temperatures and a beautiful atmosphere. The country witnesses the colorful fall and the blooming of spring in these months, only adding to the place's ethereal, mesmerizing allure.
Tips to Consider:
- Instead of taking random taxis on the road, you should prefer ride-sharing apps for better safety.
- It is better to book your stays and visits in advance to manage timings more effectively.
- You should take care of your belongings, even though Buenos Aires is generally safe, but pickpocketing is still reported in some areas.
- Be aware of scams, such as the mustard trick, where your wallet could be stolen under the pretense of concern and kindness.
- Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but it is wise to keep some cash on hand for tipping and other purchases.
San Andres, Colombia
San Andres is a Colombian island in the Caribbean Sea, famous for the mesmerizing "Sea of Seven Colors" and vibrant coral reefs. It is a remote island with a mix of cultures from various indigenous communities. The island still retains its local charm and reggae music. Over the years, the island has become a national and international hotspot for tourists who want to experience island life. Even for the adventure seekers, the island is nothing less than a heaven.
Duration: Since the island is relatively small, the ideal time to travel around San Andres is around 3-4 days.
Things to do: Go scuba diving at the best spots, such as San Andres and Providencia, rent a scooter or a golf cart to travel around San Andres, swim in the natural pool of La Piscinita, catch a sunrise and the sunset, walk to witness the West View of San Andres, scuba dive at the Aquanautas, swim with Poseidon, search for treasure at Morgan's cave explore the Sunken Ship at Rocky Cay and go parasailing over Johnny Cay.
Best time to visit: January to May is considered the best time to visit San Andres. The season is comparatively dry and balances out the sunny skies with the ideal temperatures. The sweet spot months will also offer you many other benefits.
Tips to Consider:
- Do not bring any valuables to your visit. If you have packed them, then make sure to keep them safe.
- You must have a return flight ticket when you arrive in San Andres, as immigration services strictly enforce return flights.
- San Andres is a highly cash-based island that still relies largely on cash rather than card payments.
- The best way to get around the island is by renting a souped-up golf cart or a scooter, which will let you take in the scenic views just like you wanted.
- You can rely on public transit as the buses are much cheaper and a great way to travel.
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert has a dramatic history as rich as its landscapes. The desert nestles in northern Chile, South America. It stretches across 1000 km of the Pacific coast, with the Andes Mountains to the east and the Chilean Pacific Ocean to the west. The Atacama Desert is the driest in the world and offers a unique, extreme landscape. Despite being a desert, there is a wide range of flora and fauna that survive in extreme weather conditions. Even then, the Atacama Desert is the best place for the adrenaline junkie.
Duration: You can plan a trip to the Atacama Desert for 3-4 days, as this timeframe will allow you to experience the region's diverse climates and landscapes without leaving you exhausted.
Things to do: Visit the Valle de la Luna, watch the spectacular sunset at La Piedra del Coyote, go sandboarding in the Valle de la Muerte, try stargazing in the desert, and explore the town of San Pedro de Atacama. Visit the stunning Lagunas Altiplanicas, witness El Tatio Geysers at dawn, and stop off at the Lagunas Flamingos.
Best time to visit: Since Atacama is a desert, temperatures can be extremely high if you travel in the off-season. The ideal time to visit the desert is during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November. You will enjoy a normal-to-pleasant temperature with clear skies.
Tips to Consider:
- Drink extra water to stay hydrated before you travel on high-elevation tours like the Tatio Geysers and the Altiplanic Lagoons.
- While it's hot during the day, it can get pretty cold at night, so pack some layers to handle the temperature drops.
- When planning to travel solo in the desert, choose high-clearance 4x4 crossovers or trucks.
- It is better if you limit the alcohol and the meat consumption on your first day of the excursion, as it could lead to sickness.
- Pack some altitude sickness medications prescribed by the doctor.
- Carry some incredibly strong, high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, wide-brimmed hats, and polarized sunglasses.
Costa Verde, Brazil
Costa Verde in Brazil is a breathtaking, jungle-fringed coastline that stretches between Santos and Rio de Janeiro. Characterized by the steep mountains that plunge straight into the Atlantic Ocean, you will see pristine forests, islands, and ports. The cities are beautifully preserved, century-old Portuguese colonial towns famous for their sunken, tide-washed cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and vibrant local arts scenes. If you are an adventurer, then you can surely add Costa Verde to your bucket list.
Duration: You can travel to Costa Verde in Brazil for 7-10 days, allowing you to take in all it has to offer.
Things to do: Hike to Lopes Mendes (Ilha Grande), conquer the Juatinga Crossing, take a 4WD jeep tour to Paraty's waterfalls, scuba dive in Angra dos Reis, explore the Gold Trail, kayak to the Saco do Mamangua, surf the breaks at Trindade, summit Pico do Papagaio, go off-road to Praia de Castelhanos, and explore the blue and green lagoons.
Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Costa Verde in Brazil is from June to August, when the Brazilian winter welcomes you with open arms, comfortable temperatures, and clear skies. The second window opens from April to May, but there is a chance of heavy rain during these months.
Tips to Consider:
- Costa Verde is a wonderful swimming spot, so you should carry your swimsuits. Take care of the swimming flags and look for more sheltered beaches.
- You should pack for all the seasons, as the weather can be a little shaky and fluctuate, making you feel the extremes all at once.
- Boat tours are the right way to get around the island, as it is car-free.
- While your hotel and restaurants will accept card payments, you should still carry sufficient cash for water taxis, vendors, and tips.
- Stick to drinking from the water bottle.
- Use high-quality sunscreen and mosquito repellent, as the sun is strong year-round.
W Trek, Chile
The W Trek is a premier 4-5-day backpacking route in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park that stretches about 45 miles. It is moderately difficult, as the trail runs along a craggy mountain peak on one side and the placid Lake Grey on the other. The W Trek spans across three distinct valleys- Ascencio, Frances, and Grey. You will get spectacular views of the ice field in the distance. If you want thrills and an adventurous trip, then W Trek is the way to go.
Duration: A 5-day, 4-night trip is ideal for exploring the W Trek in Chile and getting the full experience.
Things to do: Summit at the base of the Towers, hike into the French Valley, ice hike at the Grey Glacier, kayak among the icebergs on Lake Grey, cross the Grey Glacier Suspension bridge, camp in the wild, cross Lake Pehoe by Catamaran, stargaze in the pure darkness, spot the Patagonian wildlife, and unwind in the Refugios.
Best time to visit: You can participate in the W Trek in Torres del Paine, Chile, from December to February. This is the peak season, with the warmest temperatures and long daylight hours.
Tips to Consider:
- Refugios sell out months in advance for the prime summer season, so book early.
- Make sure to buy your official Torres del Paine National Park ticket online ahead of the trip.
- Patagonia is known for having 4 seasons in a day, so you should pack a variety of clothes.
- It is best to rent sleeping bags, trekking poles, and puffy jackets.
- Bring a well-broken-in pair of waterproof hiking boots to protect your ankles, and a blister kit with Compeed and medical tape.
- You should carry a portable power bank and keep your phones inside the sleeping bag to preserve the charge.
Baños, Ecuador
Baños, Ecuador, also known as the Gateway to the Amazon, is a breathtaking Ecuadorian mountain town resting at the foothills of the active Tungurahua volcano. The place is known all over the world for its therapeutic thermal springs and 60 spectacular waterfalls. Baños has a deeply rooted history that is both tied to the indigenous group and the religion. Apart from all this, the place never fails to amaze with its scenic trails for thrill-seekers.
Duration: A 3-4-day time frame will allow you to experience Baños's thrills and adventure with breathtaking views all around, while also leaving time for hot springs.
Things to do: Fly out on the Casa de Arbol Baños Swing, swim up to a view over Baños in Luna Volcano's infinity pool, cycle to the Baños Ruta de las Cascadas, hike up to see the beautiful valley from above, visit the waterfalls up close that are as tall as 45m, start your Amazonian adventure, and raft some boisterous white water.
Best time to visit: June to September are the best months to travel to Baños. These months are the dry season, with blue, clear skies for volcano viewing. Also, the optimal time for outdoor adventures.
Tips to Consider:
- Carry small denominations for buses, snacks, and tips, as places rarely accept larger denominations.
- Since Baños is located at a higher altitude, you should drink plenty of water and give yourself time to adjust.
- You should start your trip early to beat the crowd.
- It is best if you rent a bike to ride to Ruta de las Cascadas.
- Carry your swim cap to soak in the volcanic hot springs at Termas de la Virgen.
- If you want a quieter trip, you should visit between Monday and Friday; weekends work as well.
Máncora, Peru
Máncora is a coastal town in northwestern Peru, famed for its year-round sunshine, warm waters, and cultural richness. It is a beach resort that is located in the Piura region, in the Talara Province. The town is famous for its turquoise beaches and waves, making it an ideal location for surfing. All the best things add up to making Máncora a place worth visiting for adventurous people.
Duration: You can plan a Máncora trip of 3-5 days, perfectly unwinding on the beaches, catching waves, and enjoying the seafood without running out to do things.
Things to do: Ride the waves at the beach, kitesurf in the bay, swim with the green sea turtles, go whale watching, sandboard in the Sechura desert, go for a scuba excursion with the Spondylus Dive Center, Rent ATVs, or join the guided 4x4 off-road safaris to explore the rugged desert terrains, visit the Hervideros Mud Bath, explore the Cerros de Amotape National Park and go for a fishing excursion.
Best time to visit: The absolute best time to visit Máncora, Peru, is from May to November, as these months provide you with the best conditions for both surfing and other outdoor activities. The temperature is moderate, but the place might get pretty crowded.
Tips to Consider:
- The sun can be incredibly strong, so you should pack high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen and other essentials.
- Petty thefts may take place sometimes, so you should not leave your belongings unattended on the beach while you go for a swim.
- Keep up with government-issued travel advisories for safety before your trip, and stick to the route you have selected and frequently use.
- If you are a beginner, then you should surf at the mid or high tide when the dangerous reef rocks are covered.
- The center beach can get pretty crowded and littered during the peak season, so plan accordingly.
Conclusion: South America offers unmatched beauty, from its Amazon Rainforest to its Andean peaks. With a surprising range of outdoor activities, you can indulge in endless possibilities. You can cover a wide range of places if you are looking to feel rejuvenated after getting that adrenaline rush that makes your heart race. With the help of the information above, you will get to know about the many places that you can travel to in South America for adventure, fun, and thrills.
