South America is continent with stunning diversity.. that offers travelers wide array of activities. From smoky peaks.. that rise from Andes to luscious Amazon rain forest & from bustling cities buzzing with life & ancient ruin sites hidden in mystery South America travel itinerary promises excitement at every turn. This complete guide will lead you on an incredible journey across continent.
It will highlight important places to visit and secret treasures.. that can ensure.. that your South American adventure truly extraordinary.
Planning Your South America Travel Itinerary
Before you get into details of our recommended South America travel itinerary you must consider following key elements which will influence your travel plans:
- Time full South America travel itinerary could take few months. Well instead focus on smaller manageable six week schedule.. that includes best of South America.
- Transport: South America is huge & although buses are popular to travel shorter distances its likely.. that you will have to use flights to travel longer distances. Include this in your budget and plan.
- Climate South Americas climate differs dramatically from region area and season to. Find out perfect time to visit each of destinations in South America travel itinerary.
- Language Language: Although Spanish is an extremely popular language in Brazil official language of country is Portuguese. Knowing few phrases in both languages can greatly improve your understanding.
- Vaccinations: Depending on your South America travel itinerary you may need specific vaccinations. Contact an experienced travel doctor before your travel.
Were ready to begin our incredible South America travel itinerary beginning in vibrant nation of Colombia.
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Week 1 2: Colombia Caribbean Coast and Andean Highlands
Well be exploring South America travel itinerary begins with Colombia country which is perfect representation of diversity of continent. From sunshine soaked Caribbean beaches to thick mist of Andean mountain ranges Colombia offers tantalizing preview of whats in store.
Days 1 4: Cartagena
Get started on beginning of your South America travel itinerary in charming coast city Cartagena. UNESCO World Heritage site boasts vibrant colonial architecture vibrant markets and long history of piracy and conquer.
Must do activities:
- Explore streets.. that are narrow in old town which is surrounded by walls.
- Go on day trip to Rosario Island. Rosario Islands for snorkeling and relax on beach
- Savour fresh seafood as well as Colombian dishes like arepas and Bandejapaisa
- Go to impressive Castillo San Felipe de Barajas.
Days 5 7: Tayrona National Park
From Cartagena travel east along Caribbean coast until Tayrona National Park. This beautiful protected area blends beautiful jungle and beautiful beaches. It is perfect mix of excitement and rest.
Highlights:
- Trek through rainforest for chance to visit private beaches
- You can spot variety of wildlife species such as howler monkeys as well as colorful birds and
- Sleep in hammocks for night or eco huts and enjoy an complete adventure.
Days 8 10: Medellin
After.. that travel in inland direction to Medellin which is City of Eternal Spring. city was once infamous for its ties with Pablo Escobar Medellin has transformed into bustling city recognized for its creativity and culture.
Dont miss:
- Get on metrocable and enjoy spectacular city panoramas
- Take look at exciting street art scene of Comuna 13.
- Go on trip for full day to Guatape and hike El Penol for breathtaking vistas
- Go to Botero Plaza to view works of famous artist.
Days 11 14: Coffee Region
End your Colombian excursion by exploring beautiful Coffee Region where rolling hills encased in coffee plantations form stunning scene.
Awe inspiring experiences to be enjoyed:
- Enjoy stay at traditional finca (farm)
- Discover steps involved in making coffee all way from beans to cups
- A hike in Cocora Valley home to tallest palm tree in world.
- Visit charming colonial towns such as Salento and Filandia
In final moments of our trip to Colombia as we say goodbye to Colombia our South America travel itinerary takes us south towards Ecuador smallest of countries filled with amazing experiences.
Week 3: Ecuador From Andes to Amazon
Ecuador isnt huge however it provides an incredible array of activities.. that range from old fashioned cities to Amazonian adventure.
Days 15 17: Quito and Middle of World
Start your Ecuadorian travels by arriving in Quito quito which is ranked as worlds second highest capital city.
Principal attractions:
- Discover preserved historic centre which is which is UNESCO World Heritage site
- Go on your time taking TeleferiQo cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of city as well as nearby volcanoes
- Go to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of Earth) statue and cross equator.
- Indulge yourself in culture of your home in Otavalo Market which is famous for its handicrafts and textiles
Days 18 21: Amazon Rain forest
From Quito travel to Amazon Basin for an unforgettable wilderness experience.
Highlights:
- Find an eco lodge within jungle
- Guided walks are great way to see species of wildlife such as sloths toucans or maybe jaguar
- Discover healing properties of medicinal plants through traditional guides
- You can paddle along winding rivers to look for piranhas
We are leaving Ecuador and head to Peru South America travel itinerary now will take us to Peru country.. that is rich in history culture and amazing natural splendors.
Week 4 5: Peru Incan Wonders and Coastal Mysteries
Peru is highlight on any South America travel itinerary with combination of ancient civilizations along with colonial past and stunning natural beauty.
Days 22 24: Lima
Begin your Peruvian journey by visiting Lima capital of Peru famous for its top quality food scene.
Must do activities:
- Visit historical center and stunning Plaza de Armas
- The Larco Museum to learn about art of pre Columbian times and its history
- Take trip on food tour of Peru to experience its diverse dishes which include ceviche as well as pisco spirits
- Enjoy sunset from Miraflores boardwalk.. that overlooks Pacific Ocean
Days 25 28: Cusco and Sacred Valley
Then take flight from there to Cusco capital city of ancient empire for Incan Empire and entry point into Machu Picchu.
Highlights:
- Acclimatize yourself to altitude walking through Cuscos beautiful streets as well as Incan ruins
- Take trip to stunning Sacsayhuaman fortress.. that overlooks city.
- Visit in Sacred Valley including vibrant Pisac Market and massive terraces of Ollantaytambo.
Days 29 30: Machu Picchu
There is no way.. that South America travel itinerary would be complete without trip to Machu Picchu most important site of Incan civilisation.
Experiments to enjoy:
- Enjoy train journey through Andes up to Aguas Calientes
- Discover citadels history by knowledgeable guide
- Go up to and through Sun Gate for panoramic panorama of entire area
- Alternative: Climb Huayna Picchu to enjoy most challenging yet rewarding adventure
Days 31 33: Lake Titicaca
From Cusco Take scenic bus trip up to Puno where you will find entry point into Lake Titicaca worlds most navigable lake.
Dont miss:
- Go to and enjoy floatable Uros Islands which are made of totora Reeds
- Homestay at Taquile Island to experience traditional Quechua tradition and
- Enjoy sunset view over vastness of lake.
Days 34 35: Nazca and Huacachina
In final days of our stay in Peru return to coast and explore two distinct locations.
The most important features:
- Fly above fascinating Nazca Lines enormous geoglyphs are carved into desert
- Dune buggy and sandboard in town of oasis Huacachina
After leaving Peru left behind and Peru behind us our South America travel itinerary now leads us to next destination on our travels: Brazil.
Week 6: Brazil Vibrant Cities and Natural Wonders
This South America travel itinerary concludes with Brazil which is biggest nation within South America and destination.. that is likely to merit an entire itinerary of its own.
Days 36 38: Rio de Janeiro
Start your Brazilian adventure with visit to famous capital city Rio de Janeiro.
Must do activities:
- Ride cable car until Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic city panoramas
- Go to Christ Redeemer statue. Redeemer statue.. that is located on Corcovado Mountain
- Take break on famous Copacabana as well as Ipanema beaches.
- Enjoy lively nightlife of Lapa neighborhood.
Days 39 41: Iguazu Falls
The ultimate destination of this South America travel itinerary travel from Iguazu Falls which is one of worlds most breathtaking natural beauty spots.
Highlights:
- Take look at falls on both Brazilian as well as Argentine sides
- Go on boat ride at top of falls to enjoy thrilling thrills
- Look for colorful toucans as well as other animals in rainforest
Day 42: Departure
While our amazing South America travel itinerary comes to close make time to think about incredible moments you’ve shared throughout this vast continent. Between to Caribbean coastline of Colombia and Andean mountains of Peru and through Amazon rain forest and bustling streets of Rio You’ve seen absolute desirable of what South America has to offer.
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Reflecting on Your South America Travel Itinerary
This complete South America travel itinerary offers only small taste of what incredible continent of South America can offer. Within six weeks youve visited four nations encountered variety of styles of life visited ancient sites as well as seen some of stunning natural beauty spots.
Keep in mind.. that even though South America travel itinerary provides strong foundation however most enjoyable part of traveling often lies in spontaneous detours or discoveries. Be prepared to alter your itinerary as you travel and immerse yourself in diverse local cultures & taking in laidback “South American time”.. that is all over continent.
When you get back home you will be carrying your memories with you of mist cloaked Andean mountains beats of salsa and samba and fresh taste of ceviche thick Brazilian coffee & also comfort of people.. that whom youve gotten to know during your travels. South America travel itinerary is not just trip and is transformative trip.. that can increase your knowledge and provide you with an appreciation of variety and beauty in South America.
It doesnt matter if youre sipping your Mate while in Argentina or hiking through Amazon and partying night away at night in Colombia South America offers numerous opportunities to experience adventure immersion in culture as well as development of your own. South America travel itinerary is only beginning. Many tourists return time and time again attracted by captivating charm of South America as well as warm and welcoming welcome which awaits them.
Take your luggage and brush up on your Spanish (and some Portuguese) then get ready for an adventure.. that will last life time. perfect South America travel itinerary awaits with unforgettable memories and memories.. that be cherished for lifetime. Buen viaje!!