Choosing the Best Country to Visit in South America

Last updated on November 24th, 2020 at 01:33 am

What is the Best Country in South America to Visit?

With so much to see and do attracting superlatives from every corner, how on earth do you choose the best country in South America to visit? The truth is, every country in South America is worth exploring. With 12 countries covering nearly 18 thousand square kilometers, you might need a helping hand to find out which is the best destination for you. Follow along as we give a rundown of the major highlights of the following South American countries. These will help you figure out which country you should visit and will help you with the planning.

1. Peru

First up on our list for the best country to visit in South America is Peru. Going to Peru without visiting Machu Picchu would be like going to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower: after all, it is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World! At 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, the remote location of the city is at once stunning as well as providing a perfect explanation for why it was never discovered by the Spanish.

Another remnant of civilizations past is in the Nazca Lines. There are plenty of theories about why these huge figures were etched into the desert sand – astrological, religious, and agricultural. Ultimately, scientists haven’t reached a definite conclusion. The theories are best mulled over from the seat of a light aircraft as you view the monkey, spaceman, and other friends from above.

Moving on from the man-made, Peru also has some incredible natural attractions. How about a spectacular valley, hidden in the Andes Mountains that are over twice as deep as the Grand Canyon? At Colca Canyon, you can admire the view, and keep an eye out for the emblematic llama, their close relatives the alpacas, shy vicuñas, and even the giant Andean Condor, riding high on the thermal air currents above the canyon. Get all the highlights on one Peru trip: check out our Essence of Peru Tour.

2. Brazil

Next, we have Brazil. Another South American country, another one of the new Seven Wonders of the World: this time, it’s the iconic Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer). Standing atop the Corcovado Mountain is the fifth largest statue of Jesus in the world. He has his arms open in a symbol of peace. Ride the cogwheel railway and see Christ the Redeemer in all its glory. Or for yet more views of Rio and its spectacular ocean setting, take the cable car up to the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, another Rio landmark. Brazil is arguably the best South American country to visit if you’re looking for dynamic, culturally rich cities.

Apart from tours of Rio de Janeiro, the other big draws for urban sightseeing are São Paulo and Salvador. São Paulo, the largest city in the Southern Hemisphere, is full of historical landmarks. Salvador, the center of Afro-Brazilian culture, is rich in colonial architecture and known – rather charmingly – as Brazil’s capital of happiness on account of the famously easy-going locals.

However, Brazil isn’t all bustling metropolises. In fact, 60% of the largest expanse of tropical rainforest in the world is located here. Visit the Amazon Rainforest and see Pink Dolphins playing in the Amazon river, go Piranha fishing, or simply sit back and watch the sunrise over the jungle canopy, accompanied by a chorus of tropical birds. Whether you cruise through the Amazon or stay in a jungle lodge, it will be a memorable experience. See all these sites in Brazil and more with the South America Deluxe Tour.

3. Argentina

Argentina’s claim to being the best country to visit in South America is due to its unique mix of European heritage and natural sights. Iguazu Falls is a must-see in Argentina. Higher than Niagara Falls, Iguazu (shared between Argentina and Brazil) are made up of 275 individual cascades where the Iguassu River plunges dramatically off the Paraná plateau. A network of walkways allows you to get up close to the falls. During one point on the walkway, surround yourself by three sides of vertical walls of water. As for the unique culture, half the nations of Europe seem to be represented in Buenos Aires.

On a Buenos Aires tour, you’ll notice the architecture which boasts Parisian grandeur. Additionally, the local cuisine has a unique Italian flavor. One thing truly Argentinean is the Tango. The Tango is a cultural phenomenon that belongs solely to the Argentine capital. No visit to Argentina would be complete without a Tango show. Or try a few steps yourself at one of the many milongas (tango dance halls) found in every district.

Need More Info on South American Countries?

Still can’t decide which is the best South American country to visit? The South America Deluxe Tour takes in the best of Argentina and Brazil and can be extended to include Peru’s Machu Picchu. Consider this tour or contact an expert for more help!