South America has it all. I still remember my first time seeing the Andes mountains and tasting fresh ceviche by the ocean. This continent changed how I think about travel.
But with so many countries to choose from, where should you actually go? I get this question all the time.
So I put together this guide based on what I’ve learned from my trips and tons of research. I looked at culture, natural beauty, safety, food, and how far your budget will go.
From Brazil’s beaches to Peru’s peaks, these 11 countries each offer something special. Let me help you pick your next destination.
How We Ranked the Best Countries in South America
I used real factors that matter for your trip, not just random picks or personal favorites.
Key Ranking Factors
I looked at cultural experiences like history, art, and local traditions. Natural attractions matter too, from wildlife to unique landscapes.
Safety and tourism infrastructure keep you secure with reliable transportation. Affordability shows where your money goes further.
Food, hospitality, and festivals shape your daily experience. Adventure opportunities cover hiking, surfing, and outdoor activities.
Who This Guide Helps
First-timers get clear direction on where to start. Backpackers find budget-friendly spots with great experiences.
Couples discover romantic destinations. Culture seekers locate museums, historical sites, and traditions. Adventure travelers find hiking, water sports, and outdoor challenges.
Best South American Countries to Visit (Top 11 Ranked)
Each country brings something different to the table. Here’s my ranking based on what they do best.
1. Peru – Best Overall for Culture & Ancient History
Peru tops my list for good reason. Machu Picchu alone is worth the trip, but you also get the Sacred Valley and Cusco’s colonial charm.
The country spans the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest, with rich indigenous culture everywhere you go. It’s incredibly tourist-friendly, making it perfect for your first South American adventure. You’ll find excellent infrastructure and English-speaking guides in most tourist areas.
2. Argentina – Best for Nature + Food + Diversity
Argentina gives you everything in one country. Head south to Patagonia for glaciers and mountains, or north to Iguazu Falls for tropical waterfalls. The Mendoza wine region produces world-class Malbec.
Buenos Aires offers European-style architecture, incredible steaks, and tango shows until sunrise. This country has deserts, beaches, mountains, and cities. You could spend months here and still find new places to visit.
3. Brazil – Best for Beaches, Festivals & Big Cities
Brazil is massive and full of energy. Rio de Janeiro has iconic beaches and Christ the Redeemer. The Amazon Rainforest covers a huge chunk of the north. Salvador brings Afro-Brazilian culture and colonial history.
If you time it right, Carnival is an unforgettable experience. The country offers surfing, hiking, wildlife watching, and vibrant nightlife. Portuguese is the main language, so brush up on basics before you go.
4. Chile – Best for Landscapes & Adventure Travel
Chile stretches along the entire western coast, giving you incredible variety. The Atacama Desert in the north is the driest place on Earth. Down south, Patagonia has glaciers and pristine lakes.
Easter Island sits far offshore with its famous stone statues. Chile is the safest country in South America with modern infrastructure. Roads are well-maintained, buses run on time, and tourism services are reliable.
5. Colombia – Best for Culture, Coffee & Caribbean Vibes
Colombia has completely transformed its reputation. Cartagena’s old town is full of colorful colonial buildings. Medellin has perfect weather year-round and innovative urban planning.
The Coffee Region lets you tour plantations and taste fresh beans. Caribbean beaches rival anywhere in the world.
Locals are genuinely warm and helpful. Safety has improved dramatically, though you should still stay aware in certain areas.
6. Ecuador – Best for Wildlife & Compact Travel
Ecuador packs incredible diversity into a small area. The Galapagos Islands have wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. You can visit Andean mountain towns, Amazon rainforest, and Pacific beaches all in one trip.
Everything is close together, so you spend less time traveling between spots. It’s one of the most affordable countries on this list. The official currency is the US dollar, making budgeting simple.
7. Bolivia – Best for Unique, Budget-Friendly Adventures
Bolivia offers experiences you can’t find elsewhere. The Salar de Uyuni salt flats create surreal mirror effects during the rainy season. Lake Titicaca sits at an incredible altitude with floating islands.
La Paz hangs on mountainsides with cable cars for public transport. This is one of the cheapest countries to visit in South America. You’ll find authentic indigenous culture and fewer tourists than neighboring Peru.
8. Uruguay – Safest & Most Relaxed Beach Destination
Uruguay flies under the radar but shouldn’t be missed. Montevideo has a laid-back vibe with art deco buildings and waterfront walks. Punta del Este attracts beach lovers and surfers.
Colonia del Sacramento is a charming colonial town across from Buenos Aires. Wine regions produce excellent Tannat. The country has high quality of life, clean streets, and feels very safe for travelers.
9. Paraguay – Best for Culture Without Crowds
Paraguay rarely makes tourist lists, which is exactly why I included it. You’ll find impressive Jesuit ruins without the crowds. Asuncion has colonial architecture and riverfront parks.
Iguazu Falls borders the country, though most visit from Argentina or Brazil. It’s extremely budget-friendly with authentic local experiences. If you want to see South America before mass tourism arrives, come here.
10. Venezuela – Best for Natural Wonders (With Caution)
Venezuela has some of South America’s most incredible natural sites. Angel Falls is the world’s tallest waterfall. Canaima National Park looks like another planet. Caribbean islands have pristine beaches and coral reefs.
However, you need to be careful about safety and political instability. I only recommend visiting with reputable tour operators who know the current situation and safe areas.
11. Guyana – Best for Eco-Tourism & Rainforest Adventures
Guyana is for serious nature lovers. Kaieteur Falls drops 741 feet in one powerful cascade. The Amazon rainforest here remains largely untouched by development. Indigenous communities welcome visitors to learn about their traditional ways.
Wildlife watching is exceptional, with jaguars, giant otters, and rare birds. It’s not a luxury destination, but if you want pure nature without commercial tourism, this is it.
Essential Tips for Planning a South America Trip
- Weather varies by region and season: The north stays warm year-round, while southern countries like Argentina and Chile are best from November to March. Plan around rainy seasons if you’re visiting the Amazon or Patagonia.
- Stay alert in major cities and avoid flashing valuables: Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps instead of hailing cabs on the street. Keep copies of important documents separate from originals and research safe neighborhoods before booking accommodation.
- Visa requirements differ by country and your nationality: Most countries offer visa-free entry for tourists from the US, Canada, and EU for 30 to 90 days. Check specific requirements for each country you plan to visit before booking flights.
- Buses are reliable and affordable for getting between cities: Long-distance buses often have comfortable seats and overnight options. Domestic flights save time for covering large distances, especially in Brazil and Argentina.
- Budget travelers can get by on $30 to $50 per day in most countries: Mid-range travelers should plan for $75 to $150 daily. Meals cost $3 to $15 depending on where you eat, and hostels start around $10 to $20 per night.
- Book internal flights early for better prices: Local buses are cheap but can take much longer than flying. In cities, use metro systems when available as they’re faster and safer than buses during rush hour.
Conclusion
South America keeps surprising me every time I visit. From Peru’s ancient ruins to Chile’s wild landscapes, from Colombia’s coffee farms to Brazil’s festivals, each of these 11 countries has left its mark on me.
The best part? There’s no wrong choice here. Pick based on what excites you most. Love history? Head to Peru. Want beaches and parties? Brazil is calling. Need adventure? Chile and Bolivia won’t disappoint. Prefer staying under the radar? Try Paraguay or Uruguay.
Stop thinking about it and start planning. Your South American trip is waiting, and trust me, it’s going to change how you see the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest country to visit in South America?
Chile ranks as the safest country in South America with low crime rates and excellent infrastructure. Uruguay comes in second with a peaceful atmosphere and high quality of life that makes travelers feel secure.
How much money do I need for a month in South America?
Budget travelers can get by on $900 to $1,500 per month in cheaper countries like Bolivia and Paraguay. Mid-range travelers should plan for $2,250 to $4,500 depending on the country and travel style.
Do I need to speak Spanish to travel in South America?
You can get by without Spanish in major tourist areas, but learning basic phrases makes everything easier. Brazil speaks Portuguese, so download a translation app if you’re heading there.
What is the best country for first-time visitors to South America?
Peru is perfect for first-timers with tourist-friendly infrastructure and iconic sites like Machu Picchu. Chile is another great option if you want excellent safety and modern amenities.
When is the best time to visit South America?
It depends on which region you’re visiting and what you want to do. December to March is summer in the southern countries, while the north stays warm year-round with rainy seasons to avoid.