South America is a large continent consisting of 12 sovereign nations. Covering such a large landmass, the continent is home to several stunning scenic phenomenons, all worth seeing in their own right. Though South American cities are just as, if not more, incredible than cities in Europe and Asia, where it really shines is in its mountains, waterfalls, rainforests, lakes, and more. For those planning a visit down to this colorful continent, be sure to include at least one of these from the list of the most naturally beautiful destinations here.
10/10 Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina
Known as one of the largest waterfall systems in the world, Iguazu Falls lies on the border of Brazil and Argentina. The falls can be seen from both countries, and each offers different perks for viewing. More of the falls are in Argentina, meaning Brazil gives better views. However, for visitors who want to get closer to the falls, Argentina is a better bet. Either way, be prepared to be stunned when viewing Iguazu Falls, which was named one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
9/10 Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
For anyone into science and, even more so, natural phenomena, there are fewer places on planet earth better for getting up close and personal to wildlife than the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. Located approximately 600 miles off of mainland Ecuador, Galápagos is a quick flight from either Quito or Guayaquil, and one of the best ways to explore it is by cruise. Boasting four inhabited islands, visitors should plan enough time to see all of them and keep a lookout for finches, hammerhead sharks, and the famous blue-footed booby.
8/10 Atacama Desert, Chile
South America is home to a wide variety of stunning scenery, and the driest place on earth creates quite the picturesque backdrop in northern Chile. The Atacama Desert is closely situated to the Bolivian border, with the nearest airport being Calama. There’s plenty to do near the Atacama Desert, but with it being so large, the best way to explore it is by renting a camper van and sleeping under the stars.
7/10 Easter Island, Chile
Located 2182 miles off of the coast of Chile is the magical place of Easter Island. The only airline that flies there is LATAM, with flights leaving three times daily from Santiago during high season and two times a day during low season. Spend one day in Santiago before taking off on what is typically a quite pricey flight (often about 1000 USD roundtrip). Once arriving at Easter Island, visitors will be stunned by the island’s infamous Moai statues. Easter Island also has great scuba diving and rich history where visitors can learn about the Rapa Nui settlement.
6/10 Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
Located in Los Glaciares National Park in southwest Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, is Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia. Patagonia is a region shared by Chile and Argentina, and Petit Moreno Glacier is one of the most picturesque and stunning scenes in the area. It is one of the largest glaciers in the world and sits on the edge of Lago Argentino. The nearest town is El Calafate, and any trip to Patagonia essentially requires a visit to this infamous glacier. Argentina has many must-see destinations, but Perito Moreno Glacier tops that list.
5/10 Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The world’s largest salt flats can be found in Bolivia, and it is called Salar de Uyuni. The world’s first salt hotel is also found in Salar de Uyuni. The flats create an optical illusion that allows many visitors to take silly photos. While traveling here is highly recommended, it can be a logistical nightmare. The nearest airport is Uyuni, but flights are most commonly flown from Cochabamba, Bolivia. For those who are unable to find a flight or don’t want to fly, many tours from La Paz will help arrange accommodations. There are also many tours operating out of the Atacama Desert in Chile.
4/10 Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile
This list might start to seem biased toward Chile, but since Chile extenuates over such a wide geographical region, it’s no wonder it’s home to so many incredible natural phenomena. Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile’s Patagonia is no exception. Lined with picturesque mountains and stunning blue glacial lakes, Torres Del Paine National Park is a great place for those who want to become at one with the outdoors. In fact, it’s a stellar option for overnight camping.
3/10 Angel Falls, Venezuela
Not only is South America home to the world’s driest place, the world’s largest salt flats, and some of the world’s most unique islands, but South America’s Venezuela is the tallest waterfall in the world, standing at 3,212 feet. Found in southeastern Venezuela, located on the Churún River, Angel Falls is a stunning view for visitors who head to this trickier-to-travel-to-South American country. Currently, Venezuela is facing an unprecedented social and humanitarian collapse, but for those who are curious to travel here, it is still indeed possible with a visa. US citizens should apply at least two months in advance and note that visas on arrival are not possible.
2/10 Amazon Rainforest (Several Countries)
Similarly to Iguazu Falls, the Amazon River spans several countries and is also one of the new natural wonders of the world. The Amazon Rainforest is the world’s largest tropical rainforest. Most travelers access this new natural wonder of the world through Iquitos, Peru, or Manaus, Brazil. The Amazon Rainforest is home to 20% of the world’s flowing fresh water, Amazon river dolphins (uniquely pink!), poison dart frogs, and plenty of spiders and other creepy crawlers. Sadly, due to drilling, global temperatures rising, and recent forest fires, the Amazon is disappearing quickly, which will be crucial for the future of our environment.
1/10 Sacred Valley, Peru
Closely situated to one of the seven new wonders of the world, Machu Picchu, is Sacred Valley in Peru. Sacred Valley is filled with ruins, archeological sites, Maras and Moray sea salt pans, and even the option to go whitewater rafting and paragliding. Many head to Peru to see Machu Picchu, but it is well worth it to explore Sacred Valley as well.
