Ultimate South America Backpacking Travel Guide

1. Vinicunca, Peru

Known as Montaña de Siete Colores, the Rainbow Mountain is the national trademark of Peru. Only a two-hour drive from Cusco, the colorful mountain is a popular tourist attraction. Deep in the Ausangate Mountain range, the striking colored mountain is hard to find. The six day hike is, however, a very enjoyable experience for adventure lovers.

2.Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Famous for its large urban forest, with magnificent peaks, this city holds numerous secrets. A fascinating blend of European-African culture has amazing sceneries, magnificent beaches, and crazy parties. Explore the mesmerizing mountains through dozens of hiking trails.

3. Vharbour Island, Bahamas

This small island is packed with charming beaches, beautiful pastel cottages, amazing hotels, and restaurants. But it is mainly famous for its pink sand beaches along the eastern shore. The tropical oasis consists of miles of endless pink sand beaches. The western coast is also home to several marinas and beaches. The outlying coral reefs are home to some amazing variety of marine life. With its amazing resorts and various beautiful beaches, Harbour Island is one of the most desired destinations in South America.

4. COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK, ECUADOR

An deal winter destination, the Cotopaxi National Park is located just outside Quito and is a perfect destination for a day trip. Hike beautiful Laguna Limpiopungo Lake; watch the hummingbirds, tiny bunnies and Andean Gulls; or bike down various mountain trails. Indulge in beautiful sceneries and enjoy it to the fullest. If you are not much of a hiking fan there are also jeeps available to take you to the mountain top, with some nearby lodges to spend the night. Enjoy the stunning early morning view of a volcano like you will not find anywhere else.

5. CARTAGENA DE INDIAS, COLOMBIA

With energetic vibes and friendly people, the city is so full of Caribbean energy. The city is home to some of the best preserved colonial sites of South America, which were once the biggest slave ports of the Spanish colony. Stroll in the beautiful town and explore the amazing castles, old churches and colorful streets of the colonial architecture.

6. TORRES DEL PAINE, CHILE

Home to diverse landscapes, Torres del Paine soars above the Patagonian steppe. Three granite towers are the main attraction other than the golden grasslands, blue glacier, and high mountains. Surrounded by beautiful clear water lakes, the huge granite mountains with various amazing hiking trails are the dream of any adventurous hiker.

7. BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

The big cosmopolitan city has the most European touch and is the hub of various art galleries, museums, cultural centers, and theaters. Enjoy the tasty cuisine, the steak especially, and the red wine while exploring the historical sites, museums, plazas and dining establishments of the city. Witness and learn the seductive, bustling and captivating tango dance with its exciting energy. The thumping nightlife will keep you captivated the whole night.

8. PANTANAL, BRAZIL

Sprawled across three countries, i.e. Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia, the largest tropical wetland is spread on more than 42 million acres. The pristine wetland is visited by almost 1 million tourists every year. The iconic wildlife and plant species are the major attraction of this tropical wetland. The presence of around 4,000 animal and plant species has made it very important to be conserved.

9. GOLD MUSEUM, COLOMBIA

One of the most fascinating museums in South America is the Gold Museum in Bogota. There are more than 55,000 art pieces made of gold and other materials which are an indication of Colombia’s pro-Hispanic cultures. Descriptions are written in English and Spanish but I suggest you get audio guides to have a better understanding of the stories associated with these art pieces.

10. PARQUE NACIONAL DOS LENÇÓIS MARANHENSES, BRAZIL

The perfect white sand dunes and crystal clear freshwater lagoons make this place popular among the tourists, especially during the rainy season. The priceless beauty of the place is impossible to be captured justly in a picture. You can only witness its true beauty with your naked eyes. But be prepared with proper equipment. Don’t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. Walking boots or trainers can be a good choice to walk on the varying sand of the park.

11. THE WITCHES’ MARKET, BOLIVIA

The weird Witches’ Market is a lively tourist attraction despite its strangeness. You will find numerous vendors selling potions, magic charms and strange ingredients like dead frogs, etc. These ingredients and products that are used in various rituals are said to be done in order to call on the spirits. You will also find yatri, also known as the witch doctors, in black bowler hats, who provide spiritual services in exchange for a small amount of money.

12. CORICANCHA, CUSCO

Also written as Qoricancha, Koricancha or Qorikancha, the beautiful temple was once the most important and sacred place of the Inca empire. The Coricancha complex was used to be the heart of the sacred land of Cusco and was a major point for the religious activities of the city. When the Spanish arrived in the region they demolished most of the temple and built the Santo Domingo Church on its foundations. Only a small part of the temple with the remaining walls was preserved.