South America is full of breathtaking landmarks and natural wonders that are sure to leave you in awe. From towering rock formations to vast deserts and crystal-clear glacier lakes, there are countless incredible spots to explore.
During my year-long journey across the continent, I had the chance to experience some of the most unforgettable attractions. But with South America being so vast, narrowing down the must-see destinations can be a challenge.
In this post, I’ve rounded up the most beautiful places to visit in South America, from the northern tip to the southernmost reaches. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply wanting to take in stunning scenery, this list has you covered!
1. La Piedra del Peñol – Colombia’s Iconic Rock Formation
Piedra del Peñol is a massive rock formation located just two hours outside Medellín, Colombia. A guided tour to both Guatapé and Piedra del Peñol is one of the most popular day trips from the city.
This rock formation is unlike anything I’ve seen before. During my time in South America, I made a special detour to visit both the rock and the nearby town of Guatapé, and it didn’t disappoint.
Situated beside a stunning lake, Piedra del Peñol offers breathtaking panoramic views, particularly if you climb the 600+ steps to the summit. While the stairs may look intimidating at first, they aren’t as difficult as they appear. Plus, there are plenty of spots along the way to pause and catch your breath.
If you plan to tackle the hike, remember to bring water, snacks, and sunscreen, especially on sunny days. And if you have extra time, be sure to visit Guatapé, a charming colonial town known for its colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere—definitely a highlight of my South American journey.
2. Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal – A Hidden Hot Spring Gem in Colombia
Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal is one of those rare finds we came across while exploring Colombia. Though it’s a favorite among locals, it remains relatively unknown to many international travelers, making it a perfect hidden gem.
Set in the middle of a lush tropical jungle, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and winding rivers, this hot spring resort offers a relaxing retreat. It’s a fantastic spot for those who enjoy the soothing benefits of natural mineral hot springs.
Unlike some other natural hot springs, Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal is well-developed. Visitors can relax in various hot pools, stroll over scenic bridges, hike along trails, or take in the beauty of the waterfalls. The resort also includes amenities such as showers, restaurants, and hotels, making it a complete spa experience.
As one of the top hot springs in South America, it tends to get busy. We arrived early to avoid the crowds, but within an hour, the place was bustling. Even with the larger number of visitors, the grounds were well-kept, offering a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
3. Cocora Valley – A Must-See Destination in Colombia
Valle de Cocora, or Cocora Valley, is a stunning natural area in Colombia, famous for its towering wax palms—the tallest of their kind in the world. These slender palms rise up to 150 feet high, standing proudly over the rolling green hills. It’s a must-visit location if you’re traveling to South America.
At Valle de Cocora, visitors can pay a small fee to access various viewpoints and get a closer look at these majestic trees. For those looking for more adventure, there are longer hiking trails that wind through the valley, offering incredible views and a chance to fully immerse in the landscape.
The valley’s tropical climate often leads to a misty atmosphere, with clouds partially covering the palms, creating a striking and moody backdrop. This makes the whole area feel even more magical, perfect for photography or simply taking in the natural beauty.
The trails in the valley can be steep and slippery, so it’s important to wear proper hiking shoes and bring a rain jacket, as showers are common. Valle de Cocora is just a 30-minute drive from Salento, where many visitors base themselves. The most significant expense is usually transportation, so consider booking a tour that includes transport, a guide, and entrance fees to make the experience smoother.
4. Tatacoa Desert – A Hidden Gem in South America
The Tatacoa Desert is one of South America’s most underrated destinations. With its striking red rock canyons next to vast grey desert landscapes, it offers something different for travelers looking for a more unusual experience. The desert’s extreme heat means it’s a place you’ll either love or struggle to endure.
What makes Tatacoa Desert stand out is the contrast between two distinct desert landscapes. The first, with its orange hues, is famous for its viewpoints and hiking trails that wind through deep canyons. Make sure to bring plenty of water and an offline map if you plan on exploring the trails, as getting lost is easy in this vast desert.
In the grey section of the desert, you’ll find a refreshing surprise—Piscina Mineral. These turquoise outdoor pools tucked into the grey canyons provide a perfect place to cool off from the heat. For just around 8,000 Colombian Pesos (about $2 USD), you can enjoy a swim in these serene pools.
The nearest large city is Neiva, where we stayed during our visit. If you don’t have a car, local hostels offer tours to the desert, making it easy to access this remote landscape. Whether you’re a fan of adventure or simply looking for something different, the Tatacoa Desert is a destination worth considering.
5. Quito Swing – Thrilling Views and Stunning Adventures in Ecuador
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, surprised me. Typically, I’m not drawn to large metropolitan cities, but Quito truly exceeded my expectations. It offers a mix of old-world charm and modern attractions that is hard to ignore.
Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Old Town, visitors can admire colonial architecture, browse local shops, and enjoy delicious food at various restaurants and bars. The city has a warm, inviting vibe that makes exploration a pleasure.
However, the highlight of Quito is the TelefériQo Cable Car. The ride takes you up to the top of a mountain where you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Quito is one of the highest cities in the world, and from the summit, you can spot several volcanoes in the distance.
For the more adventurous, the mountaintop also offers great hiking opportunities. And if you’re looking for a thrill, the Columpio del Teleférico swing provides an exhilarating experience as you swing high above the city, with a dramatic view below.
6. Quilotoa Lake – A Must-See Destination in Ecuador
If you’re planning to visit Ecuador, Quilotoa Lake is a must-see. While it’s a bit off the beaten path, many travelers make a special trip to this stunning destination, drawn by its breathtaking beauty.
Quilotoa Lake is a crater lake known for its vivid turquoise-blue water, surrounded by dramatic mountains. The contrast of colors and the sheer size of the lake make it a picture-perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Most visitors spend a day or two in the area. There’s a challenging hike that loops around the lake, offering stunning views, but it can be tough depending on the weather. When we attempted it, the wind and rain made it difficult, forcing us to turn back after an hour.
Another option is to hike down to the lake’s shoreline, but the climb back up can be strenuous, particularly for those not accustomed to high altitudes. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are several viewpoints where you can enjoy the view, along with restaurants and souvenir shops nearby.
7. Cascada El Pailón – One of Ecuador’s Most Impressive Waterfalls
Pailon del Diablo waterfall is undoubtedly one of the most impressive waterfalls I’ve ever visited—no small statement considering my year in Oregon, which is famous for its incredible waterfalls. But this one truly stands out.
Located near the town of Baños in Ecuador, Pailon del Diablo is a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. You can hike up to designated viewing platforms for up-close views of the waterfall crashing down the cliffs, making it a must-visit spot for nature lovers.
There are two main entrances to the waterfall, each leading to different viewpoints. My favorite was the Isla del Pailon entrance, which offers a viewpoint of narrow stairs that connect two separate platforms for a more immersive experience.
The hike to the waterfall takes about 30 minutes through a jungle trail with suspension bridges, adding to the adventure. While the trail itself isn’t too long, the mist from the waterfall makes the ground slippery, so be careful on the way down. If you don’t have a car, consider booking a tour that includes transportation and an experienced guide to help you make the most of your visit.
8. Swing At The End Of The World – A Thrilling Experience in Ecuador
La Casa del Árbol, known as The Swing at the End of the World, is one of the most scenic spots in South America. Perched atop a mountain with lush forests and towering volcanoes in the backdrop, this swing offers an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Ecuador.
Ecuador has several scenic swings, but The Swing at the End of the World stands out as the most iconic. The swing’s location is truly breathtaking, making it a must-see for adventurous travelers.
Originally built by a local for personal enjoyment, this swing has grown into a major attraction. Over time, it has become one of Ecuador’s most popular tourist spots, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe.
For just $1, you can experience this thrilling swing, making it one of the most affordable attractions in the region. Be prepared for crowds unless you visit early in the morning, as this spot can get quite busy with tourists.
9. Gocta Waterfall – A Hidden Gem in Peru’s Amazon
Gocta Waterfall, located in Peru’s Chachapoyas region, is one of the country’s most impressive but lesser-known attractions. Its remote location keeps it off the typical tourist track, making it a true hidden gem for those willing to make the journey.
With a height of around 2,500 feet, Gocta is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. Nearby, the Yumbilla waterfall towers even higher at about 3,000 feet, surpassing even Yosemite Falls in California. The immense scale of these waterfalls makes them a must-see for nature lovers.
The Chachapoyas region, surrounded by the Amazon rainforest, offers a rewarding visit for those who enjoy outdoor adventures. The trip to see Gocta and Yumbilla involves navigating rough roads and off-the-beaten-path hikes, but the effort is well worth it for the chance to witness these multi-tiered cascades in such a remote and stunning setting.
Despite the challenging access, the combination of rugged terrain and breathtaking views makes Gocta Waterfall and its surroundings one of the most spectacular spots to visit in Peru.
10. Paron Lake – A Scenic Gem in Peru’s Mountain Landscape
Peru is known for its stunning alpine hikes, and with its pristine blue glacier lakes and rugged mountain views, it’s a prime destination for hikers. One of my favorite spots in Peru was Laguna Paron, a spectacular glacier lake that offers both easy and challenging hikes.
Laguna Paron is one of the more accessible lakes, with a flat trail that loops around the shoreline. This makes it a great option for those new to hiking or still adjusting to the altitude. The peaceful walk gives you plenty of opportunities to take in the breathtaking surroundings.
For a more challenging adventure, there’s a steep hike that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the lake. The trail requires some scrambling over large boulders, but the panoramic views of the turquoise-blue water make it worth the effort.
While many visitors spend just a few hours at Laguna Paron, I enjoyed it so much that I camped by the lake for a few days. The area is also perfect for renting small canoes, allowing you to paddle across the serene waters and fully immerse in the stunning natural beauty of the region.
11. Lake 69 – A Challenging Hike with Rewarding Views
Laguna 69, located in the same mountainous region as Laguna Paron, is another stunning lake in Peru that’s perfect for adventurous hikers. If you’re seeking a challenging day hike in South America, this is one of the top spots, offering breathtaking views at the end.
Situated at nearly 15,000 feet, Laguna 69 presents a significant challenge due to its high altitude. It’s important to allow time for acclimatization before attempting the hike to avoid altitude sickness. Take it slow, especially if you’re not used to the thinner air.
The hike to Laguna 69 took me half a day, and despite a rainstorm along the way, I pushed through. There were moments when I almost gave up, but in the end, the reward was well worth the effort—stunning views of the lake against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
While I went on the hike independently, most travelers choose to join a guided tour from Huaraz. Given the remote location and lack of public transportation, a guided tour is by far the most convenient way to visit this beautiful lake.
12. Huacachina Oasis – A Desert Escape in South America
Huacachina Oasis, a charming town surrounded by towering sand dunes, offers a stunning escape in the heart of South America. Located between Cusco and Lima, it’s a popular stop for travelers seeking a unique desert adventure.
Though the town is small, most visitors spend only one or two days here before continuing on to their next destination. Huacachina is a favorite among those who enjoy desert activities, such as dune buggy rides across vast sand dunes or sandboarding for a bit of adrenaline.
For a peaceful yet stunning experience, I recommend hiking to the top of one of the dunes at sunset. From there, you can enjoy sweeping views of the oasis and its lagoon, with the golden sands stretching out all around.
As one of the most beautiful spots in South America, Huacachina Oasis is quite touristy, with plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and bars catering to travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Huacachina offers a memorable stop in the desert.
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