EXPLORE SOUTH AMERICA
South America
From the Andes and the Amazon to Patagonia and the Atacama, South America covers extremes. Pick a country below to begin.
Why visit South America
South America rewards travelers who give it time. You can trek to Machu Picchu, watch wildlife in the Galapagos, taste wine in Mendoza, or stand at the foot of a glacier in Patagonia. The continent is vast, so most itineraries focus on one or two countries.
Each guide below breaks down the cities and regions worth your time, the best seasons, and how to move around. Start there to plan a route that matches your pace.
Explore countries in South America
Choose a country to start planning. In-depth city guides are on the way.
BrazilRio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Salvador & more →ArgentinaBuenos Aires, Mendoza, Bariloche & more →PeruLima, Cusco, Arequipa & more →ColombiaBogota, Medellin, Cartagena & more →ChileSantiago, Valparaiso, San Pedro de Atacama & more →EcuadorQuito, Guayaquil, Cuenca & more →BoliviaLa Paz, Uyuni, Sucre & more →UruguayMontevideo, Punta del Este, Colonia del Sacramento & more →ParaguayAsuncion, Ciudad del Este, Encarnacion & more →VenezuelaCaracas, Maracaibo, Merida & more →
Planning a trip to South America?
Follow along for in-depth guides, hotel roundups and honest itineraries from Zee.
Frequently asked questions
When should I visit South America?
Seasons are reversed from the northern hemisphere. The shoulder months often bring good weather with fewer crowds, but the ideal window depends on whether you want the Andes, the Amazon or Patagonia.
How much time do I need?
Two to three weeks suits one or two countries comfortably. Patagonia and the Amazon in particular involve long travel days.
Do I need vaccinations?
Some regions, such as the Amazon, recommend yellow fever vaccination and malaria precautions. Check current health advice before you travel.