South America
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Welcome to South America!
Must-See Destinations
South America Facts
South America stretches from snow-capped Andean peaks, over driest deserts to the lush Amazon. It’s a land of breathtaking landscapes, filled with staggering biodiversity.
431 Million
That’s 5.4% of all people on Earth.
17.8 Million km²
That’s almost 2-times Europe.
12
That’s 38 less than Asia.
Mt. Aconcagua
It’s the second highest in the world.
Amazon River
Some say only the Nile is longer.
Lake Titicaca
8.375 km², but it’s only #20.
Adventure Awaits
Slide down the huge sand dunes with a sand board in Peru or bike the world’s most dangerous “Death Road” in Bolivia. South America is a continent that tests your limits.
Urban South America
São Paulo’s concrete jungle bursts with neon dreams, while Medellín’s graffiti murals tell stories of modern hope – South American cities are a vibrant chaos with a warm heart.
Why to travel to South America?
South America beckons as an exceptional continent to explore, not solely for iconic New World Wonders like Machu Picchu or Christ the Redeemer. Traveling to South America is remarkably accessible, with many popular countries requiring no visa for a broad range of visitors. Moreover, the region has an excellent infrastructure, seamlessly connecting travelers with extensive bus and flight networks, along with a diverse array of accommodations and excellent dining options.
Is South America safe to visit?
South America is a generally safe continent for tourists, if you take common-sense precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables safe, and avoiding sketchy regions and neighborhoods.
The media often overemphasizes crime and danger in South America, giving travelers a false impression of the continent’s safety. While there have been instances of crime and violence in some parts of South America, these are often isolated incidents and do not reflect the overall safety situation.
What are the most popular countries in South America?
The top five most popular countries to visit in South America are Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Peru. These countries offer a diverse range of attractions, from the amazing Amazon rainforest and the breathtaking Andes Mountains to vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires. And of course we cannot forget Machu Picchu, attracting thousands of visitors per day from all over the world.
Is South America cheap to visit?
South America stands out as one of the most budget-friendly continents for travel. For this reason it is also a beloved destination among backpackers.
Have a look into our guides. There we list the expected costs for accommodations, transport, food and activities for each destination.
When is the best time to travel to South America?
There is no single best time to visit South America, as weather varies widely from country to country. Traveling during the dry season is generally a good idea, while traveling during the shoulder and off-season months can save you a lot of money.
Have a look on our country pages or posts to find out the best travel time for a specific destination.
Know Before You Go
Curious about South America before your trip? Let us answer the most common questions and have you packing with confidence.
