South America
Ah, South America! A land where the rhythms of samba, salsa, and tango ignite the night, where the Andes stretch towards the skies, and the Amazon weaves tales as old as time. From the sultry streets of Buenos Aires to the mystical heights of Machu Picchu, from Brazil’s endless coastline to the salt flats of Bolivia, South America is an explosion of colour, culture, and unparalleled beauty.
Here at Northern Wanderers, we’ve donned our dancing shoes and trekked through terrains both rugged and resplendent to bring you the very essence of this continent. We’ve danced, dined, and delved deep into each destination, crafting guides that are as alive as the land itself.
Embark on a journey through our vibrant travel sections:
Argentina: Waltz through wine country, get lost in the fervour of a football match, or simply marvel at Patagonia’s grandeur.
Brazil: Revel in the carnival spirit, lounge on iconic beaches, and journey through the vastness of the Amazon.
Chile: From the Atacama Desert’s stark beauty to the icy wonders of Tierra del Fuego.
Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Beyond: Traverse ancient ruins, indulge in coffee-soaked landscapes, and explore the rich tapestries of cultures that define each nation.
Whether your heart yearns for adventure atop the Andean peaks or seeks the tranquillity of a Uruguayan beach, our guides resonate with the beats, tastes, and tales of South America.
Select a country below or search for your destination:
Best Time To Visit
There’s no bad time to visit South America – it all depends on what you want to see and do! The sheer size of the continent means that you can experience a variety of climates and landscapes throughout the year.
The best time to visit South America is between September and November. Summer in South America is November-February and the winter season is June-August. There’s also a rainy season in South America between January and March.
The further south you go, the more seasonal the climate, with the latitude around Buenos Aires and Santiago experiencing hot summers and chilly winters. Further south, think more Scandinavian weather conditions – cooler summers, more storms, and deep snow in winter.
What To Expect
Language: Spanish is the dominant language in terms of the number of countries in South America that use it. It is spoken in every country apart from Brazil (Portuguese), Suriname (Dutch) Guyana and the Falkland Islands (English) and French Guiana (err, French).
Brazil’s sheer size and population means that Portuguese is actually the dominant language in terms of number of speakers.
Nightlife: Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina, is famous for its nightlife. If you’re looking to dance the night away into the wee hours of the morning, book your next vacation here!
Nature Lovers: While South America as a whole has an abundance of incredible landscapes, Bolivia is home to one of the most famous natural wonders, Salar de Uyuni. You can also head to Chile to explore the hiking trails in Torres del Paine or join an expedition into the Amazon.
| Largest Country | Brazil |
| Smallest Country | Suriname |
| Largest City | São Paulo (Brazil) |
| Smallest City | Tumaco (Colombia) |
| Number Of Countries | 12 |
| Highest Point | Cerro Aconcagua, in the Andes Mountains (Argentina) |
| Population | 422.5 million |
| Total Area | 6.888 million mi² |
| UNESCO Heritage Sites | 72 |
Top 5 Things to See and Do in South America
(Note: South America is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
1. Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru
The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu, perched amidst the Andean peaks, is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring archaeological treasures. Reaching it by traversing the Inca Trail only amplifies its mystical allure. This four-day trek meanders through verdant cloud forests, past other lesser-known Inca ruins, and over challenging mountain passes, culminating in the breathtaking sunrise view over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. Beyond the physical endeavour, the journey offers a profound connection to the rich history and spirituality of the Inca civilisation.
Rio de Janeiro, the marvellous city, is a vibrant mosaic of golden beaches, iconic landmarks, and pulsating samba beats. Copacabana and Ipanema beaches invite sun-seekers, while the statue of Christ the Redeemer, standing tall atop Corcovado mountain, offers panoramic views and spiritual solace. As the sun sets, the sounds of samba and bossa nova permeate the air, with Lapa becoming the epicentre of nightlife. And, if timed right, experiencing Rio’s Carnival, with its flamboyant parades and street parties, is an unmissable feast for the senses.
3. Exploring the Salt Flats of Uyuni, Bolivia
The Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia presents a surreal landscape that seems plucked from a dream. Spanning over 10,000 square kilometres, it’s the world’s largest salt flat, resembling a vast mirror when covered in a thin layer of water. Travelling across this stark white expanse, one can witness cacti-studded islands, flocks of pink flamingos, and a seemingly infinite horizon. Whether capturing the famed perspective photos or admiring a star-lit sky unmarred by light pollution, Uyuni offers an otherworldly experience.
The Amazon Rainforest, often dubbed the ‘lungs of our planet’, is a vast and biodiverse expanse, housing an estimated tenth of all known species. Embarking on a river cruise or staying in a jungle lodge allows visitors to delve deep into this vibrant ecosystem. Guided tours unravel the mysteries of the forest, from the tiniest insects to towering kapok trees. Night treks, canoeing excursions, and bird-watching expeditions further enhance the adventure, unveiling the incredible richness of life that thrives beneath the canopy.
5. Wine Tasting in Mendoza, Argentina
Nestled at the foothills of the Andes, Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine country, celebrated especially for its robust Malbec wines. Vineyards stretch across sun-kissed valleys, offering visitors a tantalising journey of taste. From boutique family-run estates to grand wineries, each offers its unique blend of tradition and innovation. Pairing sessions with Argentine steaks, exploring vineyards on horseback, or simply watching the sun dip behind snow-capped peaks with a glass in hand — Mendoza promises an intoxicating blend of experiences.
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