backpacking south america

Backpacking South America (Itineraries + Places To See)

Are you currently planning your backpacking South America trip?

South America in our opinion is the ultimate continent to backpack. It’s also a big part of why we decided to start this site.

With over 10 contrasting yet seamlessly intertwined countries to explore, you’ll come across almost everything on a backpacking trip in South America.

Imagine all that is waiting for you:

  • Some of the most picturesque beaches in the world.
  • The wild regions of The Amazon and Patagonia.
  • A chaotic yet enticing adventure in Venezuela.
  • The mysterious and secluded cultures of Paraguay.
  • Rural Bolivia, and much, much more!

As well as the destinations, the people in this continent are what make it special. Warm and welcoming, you’ll feel at home wherever you decide to go.

They also know how to party, and you’ll see impromptu Salsa, Tango and Samba dances in many places along your trip!

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Backpacking South America

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about backpacking South America.

This includes all the countries and top destinations, a variety of solid backpacking routes depending on your time/budget, the culture and more.

As always, everything on this site comes from our own experience, so in places where necessary we won’t hold back (we want you to know the good and bad).

Start here to get informed on South America. Here we’ll do our best to provide you with realistic expectations, how to stay safe, getting around as well as the languages and currencies used in this vast continent.

South America Itineraries

Most who backpack around South America tend to traverse the giant continent in one of two ways. The first is: starting in Colombia, and then heading anti-clockwise until Brazil.

cost of flight in colombia

The second is: the same but in reverse, starting in Brazil and moving clockwise until Colombia. It really depends on what you want to see and the amount of time you have.

You can always skip countries if you don’t want to see them, just remember that buses through countries can often take over a day, and international flights often steal your wallet.

Below we’ve created a few different itineraries to help you start planning your dream trip.

If you have any questions, reach out to us and we’ll be glad to help!

3 Month South America Itinerary

Overall: Brazil → Uruguay → Argentina.

Bucket List: Christ the Redeemer (Rio de Janeiro) → Beaches in Florianópolis → Montevideo → Iguazú Falls → Buenos Aires.

Beaches: Santa Marta → Cartagena → Bogotá → Guayaquil → Manta → Montañita → Máncora → Tumbes.

6 Month South America Itinerary

Overall: Colombia → Ecuador → Peru → Bolivia → Chile → Argentina.

Bucket List: The Lost City → Tayrona National Park → Bogotá → Cotopaxi Volcano → Galapagós Islands → Iquitos → Huacachina → Machu Picchu → Lake Titicaca → Salar de Uyuni → Santiago → Patagonia → Buenos Aires.

Beaches: Salvador → Rio de Janeiro → Ilha Grande → Florianópolis → Montevideo → Punta del Este → Iguazú Falls → Buenos Aires → Mar del Plata.

9 Month South America Itinerary

Overall: Brazil → Uruguay → Paraguay → Argentina → Chile → Bolivia → Peru → Ecuador → Colombia.

Bucket List: Carnival (Salvador or Rio) → The Amazon → Christ the Redeemer → Beaches in Florianópolis → Montevideo → Punta del Este → Iguazu Falls → Ybicíu National Park → Buenos Aires → Patagonia → Santiago → The Atacama Desert → Salar de Uyuni → Lake Titicaca → Arequipa → Machu Picchu → Huacachina → Iquitos → Galápagos Islands → Cotopaxi Volcano → Quito → Bogotá → The Lost City → Tayrona National Park.

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Backpacking South America Guide

Let’s now look closer at each country that you can visit as part of your backpacking South America adventure so that you can start to add cities, towns and landmarks to your list.

Colombia Backpacking Guide

wayuu in la guajira

Colombia Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 4-6 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Colombian Peso
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: December-April
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Moderate (5/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: Santa Marta

We’ll kick off with the sizzle and passion of Colombia.

One of the most popular countries to backpack in South America, Colombia in the last few decades has become much more visited as crime rates have lowered significantly.

With its stunning Caribbean coast, bustling cities and high-tempo rhythm, you won’t want to leave. Below we’ll now look at the best things to do and see.

Best Places to Visit in Colombia

is cartagena worth visiting

Cartagena

The gateway into South America, Cartagena is one of the most beautiful cities in South America. With impressive skyline views and colourful colonial architecture, it’s easy to spend many days getting lost in the old historic town.

Totumo, which is a mud volcano, is a popular day trip to wind down and relax. You can also head on a sailboat across the Caribbean to the San Blas Islands, which are simply breathtaking and also home to the native Guna Yala tribe.

Here you’ll also find the stunning Rosario islands, with this Catamaran Cruise the best way to see them, with snorkelling equipment and all meals included!”

Barranquilla

Located on the Caribbean coast, this city is well-known for its sweltering heat and Latin flair. The second largest carnival on earth takes place here, and is a testament to Barranquilla’s passion for dance and music.

Some of the best gems to see here include the Museo Caribe, and going for a stroll along Paseo Bolivar. If you are into watersports, there’s also plenty of beaches here, and it’s an ideal place to go and surf.

Santa Marta

santa marta cathedral

This is the area to go for idyllic beaches, a hot climate and also a more relaxed vibe. Santa Marta itself is pretty nice to stay in, with the nearby Taganga also a popular option and one of the best places to learn to dive in the continent.

However the top spot has to go to Tayrona National Park, which has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Stay in one of the hammocks here or eco-lodges, and also explore the nearby jungle with many paths and private beaches around the area.

The Guajira Desert

Up in the extreme north-east of Colombia lies the autonomous region of The Guajira. Here you can meet the Wayúu, an indigenous tribe to the area, who are renowned for their painted faces and excellent handcrafts.

Cabo de le Vela is a popular town to stay within the Guajira region for windsurfing, and you can head up to Punta Gallinas, which is officially the most northern point in all of South America.

Medellin

is medellin worth visiting

Known as the city of external spring, Medellin is one of Colombia’s most important cities. Backpackers can find exuberant nightlife options in El Poblado, as well as many cultural activities. Medellin is a place where you can discover the nude artwork and sculptures of Fernando Botero. There are various day trips from Medellin too including visits to towns such as Guatape and Santa Fe de Antioquia, which can both be reached within an hour.

We recommend you follow our epic 3 days in Medellin itinerary where you’ll get to explore the city then spend the day visiting both Guatapé as well as El Peñol.

Bogotá

The Capital of Colombia is definitely worth exploring. The popular Candelaria and Zona Rosa areas are the best to stay in and explore, where you’ll find lots of great nightlife and atmosphere.

The Monserrate Mountain has impressive skyline views of the city, which can be reached by taking the gondola. Consider taking the day trip to Zipaquirá, which is home to a Cathedral made out of salt, carved into a mountain!

Cocora Valley

This valley is a breath of fresh air (quite literally) compared to the rest of Colombia. The valley is famous for being one of the best areas in the world for the coffee grown here. This guided trek is the best way to explore Cocora Valley, where you’ll also visit some local coffee plantations.

You can easily explore this region by staying in one of the nearby towns such as Manizales, Pereira and Salento. As well as seeing the plantations and trying the good stuff, the area is also famous for the extremely tall palm trees, in the area known as the Bosque de Palmas.

Cali

The spiciest city of all, Cali is where Colombia’s sizzling rhythm peaks. The city is arguably one of the best in the world for Salsa Dancing, with tonnes of venues that locals hit pretty much every night.

It’s a good place to learn, or to sit back and watch them take centre-stage! The Cristo Rey statue, standing at an impressive 85ft is also another top gem to visit in the city.

San Andres

The stunning Caribbean island of San Andres is one of the highlights of a visit to Colombia (well off of the mainland that is).

san andres ocean

It’s home to some of the most incredible snorkelling and diving waters in the region, and is also a cheap place to learn.

If you’re not swimming in the turquoise waters, then you can opt to lounge on one of its many beautiful palm-fringed beaches. Already got your beach-fill? Then hire a golf cart to explore around this small island independently.

What Budget Do I Need For Colombia?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $20-25 per day when traveling around Colombia. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Colombia Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

Known for its sizzling Caribbean beaches and spicy city nightlife, Colombia is a firm favorite for travelers heading to South America.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Colombia, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price!

Ecuador Backpacking Guide

is ecuador expensive

Ecuador Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 3-4 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: US Dollar
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: December-April
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Moderate (4/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: Cuenca

Stretching from the coast, inland to the Andes and onto the jungle, Ecuador is perhaps the perfect example of South America within one, small country.

Know as one of the safest countries in South America, Ecuador rewards those who visit with stunning landscapes, friendly people and also a much less touristy vibe compared with other more popular countries in Latin America.

Let’s take a look at what makes Ecuador so special, and why you must visit here on a backpacking trip in South America.

Best Places to Visit in Ecuador

rope swing banos ecuador travel

Quito

The capital sits at an impressive 2,850m, on the base of the Andean mountains. For the best views, head up to Cruz Lima via the teleférico.

The best things to do in the city include a visit to the pre-Hispanic temples of Museo Templo del Sol, the eccentric Intinan Museum, as well as the picturesque old town.

You can also hike nearby Cotopaxi Volcano, and head to La Mitad del Mundo, which is a town located very close to the Equator line (the official line is commonly disputed).

Otavalo

Located roughly 30 miles from Quito, Otavalo is an indigenous city that sits in a beautiful setting surrounded by volcanoes and mountains.

The city is known for its market, which is the largest in South America and is one of the best for woven crafts and leather goods. Here you can also hike many of the volcanoes close-by, such as Cotacachi, Mojanda and Imbabura.

Baños

Known as the adventure capital of Ecuador, Baños is full of life and is also the gateway into the Ecuadorean Amazon.

El Pailón del Diablo is one of the best things to do here, which is a stunning waterfall in the nearby town of Rio Verde.

Termas de la Virgen is a hot spring which is great for winding down for the day, especially if you’ve been rafting, base jumping or taking part in any of the other extreme activities here in the mountains. Paragliding is another must for those after their adrenaline fix!

Cuenca

A beautifully colonial city in Southern Ecuador, located in the Azuay Province. Whilst here you have to visit Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, an imposing cathedral in the city centre.

Another awesome experience is this authentic Cooking Class, where you’ll learn to make some incredible Andean dishes whilst also having a private tour around Cuenca’s main market

Head to Avenida Mirador de Turi for its lookout over the city (take your camera!) and also Parque Nacional Cajas for its cloud forest and numerous hiking trails.

Montañita

A small party town on the coast, which is also one of the best places to surf in Ecuador.

backpacking montanita ecuador budget

Whilst once known for its chill vibes, it’s now become somewhat of a hedonistic paradise, so if you’re into chaos, Montañita is the place for you!

Nearby Olón is another great beach which is quieter, and great for relaxing or sweating out last night’s hangover.

The Galápagos Islands

How could we leave this one out?! 1000 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the islands are home to over 9000 species, such as Lava Lizards, Marine Iguanas, Sharks and the infamous Tortoises.

Yes, they are expensive, however these Galápagos islands vacations are one of the top bucket list destinations in South America (if not the world), and it’s well worth the cost if you love wildlife and exploring endemic species!

What Budget Do I Need For Ecuador?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $20-25 per day when traveling around Ecuador. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Ecuador Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

Although small, Ecuador is an incredibly diverse country. In just a matter of hours we can be in the wild Amazon Jungle, hiking through the Andean mountains or lounging on picturesque Pacific beaches.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Ecuador, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more!

We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Peru Backpacking Guide

llamas peru

Peru Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 4-6 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Sol
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: June-November
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Safe (7/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: The Sacred Valley

Peru is one of the best and most diverse countries to backpack in the world, let alone South America.

Whether you are an experienced pro or just starting out, this country has a huge variety of destinations that suits pretty much all tastes.

Home to the mysterious Nazca Lines, the legendary Machu Picchu, the vast Amazon, huge canyons and mountains and beyond, it’s easy to spend a few months wanting to explore every inch and corner of this alluring country.

And that’s exactly what we did! Below we’ll share the very best things to do and see in Peru, and some our personal travel recommendations.

Best Places to Visit in Peru

things to know traveling to peru

Iquitos

The main entry point into the Northern Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos can only be accessed by flight from Lima, and is the biggest city in the world to be isolated (no roads to and from!).

To be honest the city itself is not the best, however it’s good for booking a multi-day trek into the jungle, and also to stroll around the Plaza de Armas.

Iquitos is also a popular place for those crazy bunch looking to experience Ayahuasca. George went off into the Jungle to do this, so keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming articles!

Lima

is lima safe

The capital is a must-visit on any trip to Peru, and seeing how all flights come here you’ll already be sorted! Lima is a giant city, however we recommend staying in the Miraflores district, which is a lot prettier and set-up for tourists.

Here you can visit the Plaza de Armas, Museo Larco (home to the biggest collection of Pre-Incan artifacts in the world), and the pretty Barranco district.

And then there’s the food… Peru is home to some of the best-rated food on the Planet, and is often winning annual culinary competitions like its nothing. Be sure to try out Ceviche when here.

Cusco

Cusco is the most popular city to visit and backpack in Peru. The town itself is full of pretty colonial architecture and winding cobblestone streets.

Here you can visit Lake Humanatay, and Vinicunca (also known as Rainbow Mountain). And then we have the obvious Machu Picchu, with most using Cusco as the base before starting along the various Inca Trails that head up to the imposing gem. Our 7 day Cusco itinerary cover most places there.

The Sacred Valley is another must-visit area. We recommend hopping on this day tour where you’ll visit all of the best sites, which include Pisac, Chinchero as well as the Incan ruins of Ollantaytambo.

huacachina desert peru

Huacachina

This desert oasis is simply fascinating. Isolated and surrounded by the imposing dunes (which are some of the biggest in the world!), Huacachina is one of the most picturesque destinations in South America. Bucket list activities include Sand-boarding down the massive dunes, and going on a buggy ride through the desert. Watching the sunset and sunrise over the dunes is A must; just take lots of water with you!

Huacachina is located close to Ica, and you’ll need to first go to Ica as no buses come straight here. From Ica, it’s roughly 20 minutes on taxi or tuk-tuk.

Arequipa

Known as the White City, Arequipa is Peru’s second largest city. It’s surrounded by volcanoes, with El Misti a popular trek to tackle whilst here.

The Colca Canyon – which stands at a whopping 10,700+ feet deep, and is one of the deepest canyons in the world – is near here, and you 100% need to visit this if coming to Peru.

Some cool things to do in Arequipa include the beautiful Plaza de Armas, and also Museo Santuarios Andinos, a museum with a pretty gruesome history.

Lake Titicaca

lake titicaca the floating uros islands

The world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca is located at an impressive 3,812 metres above sea level.

It’s home to the floating Uros islands, which are one of the most popular destinations to visit in Southern Peru.

The best town to stay in to explore the lake is Puno, however the lake also straddles Bolivia, so if coming you may want to hop across to see the Bolivian gems of the lake including Las Islas del Sol.

This 2 Day Tour is the best way to explore Lake Titicaca, where you’ll not only see the Uros Islands, however will also explore the further away islands of Taquile and Amantani.”

Máncora

Up in the North of Peru, this beachside city will be a warm welcome for those who’ve already hustled through the chilling altitudes of the Andes.

Máncora is well known for its surf, which has warmer temperatures than that of Lima and Paracas.

Las Pocitas and Playa del Amor are some of the best beaches to relax on in the region, where you can wind down, get surf lessons or enjoy a few cold ones heading into the evening.

Chachapoyas

Perhaps the coolest name of any destination we’ve come across!

waterfall chachapoyas

This city is the capital of the Amazonas region, and is home to the only recently discovered Yumbilla Waterfalls, which standing at 895 metres, is the fifth largest in the world.

Other cool things to do in Chacha include a visit to Karajia Sarcophagi, which is a large burial site, and also the popular Gocta Waterfalls.

See our guide which look at 21 unique places to visit in Peru for more inspiration.

What Budget Do I Need For Peru?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $20 per day when traveling around Peru. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Peru Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

Home to ancient Inca culture and incredible hiking circuits, Peru is a classic and a must-visit on any South American itinerary.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Peru, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Bolivia Backpacking Guide

best time to visit bolivia salt flats

Bolivia Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 4-5 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Boliviano
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: June-November
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Moderate (6/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: Madidi National Park

Now we enter the vast and mysterious Bolivia.

One of the staples of any backpacking trip to South America, Bolivia tends to be one of the cheapest countries to visit.

This, along with many top destinations in the country, makes it one of the most popular to visit in Latin America.

From the legendary Salar de Uyuni, which makes the mirror reflection (what many call Heaven on Earth) during the wet season, to mysterious tribes in the Amazon and also the vibrant cities of La Paz and Sucre, Bolivia is well worth the visit. Let’s explore Bolivia in-depth, to start see where you must go!

Best Places to Visit in Bolivia

backpacking la paz bolivia

La Paz

The highest capital in the world (well administrative capital – Bolivia is unique as it has two different capitals for different purposes!), La Paz sits at a dizzying 3500m on the Andes Altiplano region.

The best things to do in La Paz include heading up to Killi Killi Mirador which has the best views of the city, and also browsing through The Witches Market, which contains everything from potions, to yep you guessed it; llama fetuses.

Salar de Uyuni

One of the top destinations in South America, The Salar de Uyuni is simply unmissable.

incahuasi island bolivia salt flats

With the Salt Flats expanding over 10,500 square kilometres, the region makes for some seriously impressive photos. This ultimate 3 Day Tour is the very best way to explore the Uyuni Region, where you’ll visit red lakes, deserts, the salt flats and much more.

Head there during the rainy season (from December until April), where the rainfall results in a thin layer of water resting on top of the salt flats, which creates a perfect mirror image.

Arguably one of the most spectacular phenomenons on the continent, it’s commonly referred to as where heaven meets earth, and well, how can we disagree?

backpacking bolivia sucre

Sucre

The (official) capital is often overlooked with most either heading to La Paz, or south to see the Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats.

Also known as the White City due to its abundance of snow-coloured colonial buildings, Sucre is actually one of the best (and cheapest) areas to learn Spanish!

Whilst here you must visit the Parque Cretácico, which contain over 5000 dinosaur footprints, and is one of the best prehistoric archaeological sites in South America.

Lake Titicaca

The southern portion of this majestic lake sits in the extreme north of Bolivia. At roughly 3800m+, it’s the highest navigable lake in the world.

is lake titicaca worth visiting

It’s said to be the birthplace of the Incas, and thus is home to many ruins such as lñak Uyu and Chinkana.

Here you can also visit the islands of the Sun and Moon, and Copacabana, which is the best area to stay.

It’s also a great place to check out wildlife, such as the native Titicaca Giant Frog, Vizcacha and Andean Foxes.

This 2 Day Tour is the best way to explore Lake Titicaca, where you’ll not only see the Uros Islands, however will also explore the further away islands of Taquile and Amantani

Potosí

Located in the Southern Highlands, this picturesque city is famous for its rich mining history.

Here you can visit the Cerro Rico Silver Mines, the picturesque Plaza 10 de Noviembre and also the National Mint of Bolivia, which was historically vital as one of Bolivia’s major silver production sites.

This reputable tour is the safest way to explore this otherwise dangerous mine. Just make sure to bring some inexpensive gifts for the workers (like food or cigarettes), since they are working in there for up to 24 hours at a time.

What Budget Do I Need For Bolivia?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $20 per day when traveling around Bolivia. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Bolivia Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

The beating heart of South America, Bolivia is home to some of the most raw and authentic cultures you can find in the continent, as well as to some really unique landscapes too.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Bolivia, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Chile Backpacking Guide

backpacking chile itinerary

Chile Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 3-5 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Chilean Peso
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: November-April
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Safe (7/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: San Pedro de Atacama

Next up we have the proud and diverse nation of Chile.

This long and eccentrically shaped country spans an impressive 2700 miles from top to bottom, and has everything from harsh desert and beaches in the north, to snow-capped mountains and glaciers in the extreme south.

Chile really is one of the most varied countries to visit in South America, and below we’ll explore the hype, as well as looking at some of the best things to do and see here. Our Chile itinerary also has some useful tips too!

Jokes aside, the Spanish here is extremely colorful and varied, and is often difficult to understand even for native speakers from other countries.

Try to learn some slang words before going, which should make interacting with the locals a tad bit easier.

Best Places to Visit in Chile

getting to san pedro de atacama

San Pedro de Atacama

Situated up in the extreme north of Chile, San Pedro is surrounded by the vast Atacama Desert.

It’s a very popular town for exploring the otherworldly landscapes, and here you can also visit a range of spectacular vistas such as Laguna Verde as well as the Valle de la Lunar.

You can also explore the ancient village of Tulor, as well as climb the Stratovolcano of Licancabur, which sits at 5920 metres and features a stunning crater lake.

Santiago

The capital of Chile, Santiago is also the largest city in the country.

backpacking santiago chile itinerary

It’s very unique, as here you can ski in the Andean mountain range by morning, and then sit on the beach just a couple of hours later!

Here you must visit San Cristóbal Hill, which has some of the best panoramic views over the city. Portillo and El Colorado are the best spots for skiing, and the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino is also worth the visit, which features an array of important ancient artifacts throughout many of Chile’s most important eras.

Valparaíso – Known as the trendy capital of Chile, Valparaíso is by far one of the coolest and hip cities in South America!

Here you can explore the colorful and arty streets that make it so popular, starting at Concepción Hill and following the street art route which includes Alegre Hill as well as La Sebastiana. The “Jewel of the Pacific” also has some nice beaches, with Reñaca a popular spot for surfing and chilling out.

If you’re already in Santiago, then this day trip is perfect since you’ll have all logistics sorted for you, as well as tours around Valparaíso, and the nearby gems of Viña del Mar, & Casablanca

Torres del Paine

The truth is there are tonnes of cool destinations to visit in the Chilean Patagonia. However, Torres del Paine is the most stunning, and takes the crown for the best in the region.

Meaning “blue mountains” in the native Tehuelche language, these stunning mountains have been shaped over millions years of tectonic activity, and are among the most beautiful and picturesque in the world.

Los Cuernos (known as “The Horns”) are the best known, however Paine Grande and Cerro Espada are also great hikes to do. Don’t complain if you find yourself spending weeks more here than you originally planned!

Torres del Paine is best accessed from nearby Puerto Natales, and we recommend heading on this hiking tour where you’ll explore the very best of these jagged peaks

Easter Island

The furthest South American gem from the continent, Rapa Nui (as known in its native tongue) sits at around 2200 miles west of Chile in the Polynesia.

Its mysterious moai statues have gripped the world, with many making the 5-hour flight from Santiago to explore this mesmerizing island, which is one of the most remote in the world.

Whilst flights are expensive, the backpacker who ventures here will be rewarded with the infamous Ahu Tongariki statues, which range between 5 to 9 meters tall, with the heaviest weighing in at 86 tonnes!

The island is also home to the beautiful Anakena beach, and the impressive extinct volcano of Terevaka.

What Budget Do I Need For Chile?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $30-35 per day when traveling around Chile. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Chile Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

From the wild regions of the Atacama Desert to the glacial wonderland of Patagonia, you’ll find many incredible landscapes throughout your trip along Chile.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Chile, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Argentina Backpacking Guide

cafayete itinerary argentina

Argentina Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 4-6 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Argentinian Peso
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: November-April
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Very Safe (8/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: Mendoza

Now let’s explore the unique gem that is Argentina.

One of the most popular countries to visit in South America, Argentina really packs a punch and holds it weight as a top Latin American destination for backpackers.

With super-cosmopolitan cities, towering mountains, mammoth-sized glaciers and some of the best wine in the world, Argentina really does have it all. Let’s take a look at the very best things do see and do here below.

Best Places to Visit in Argentina

buenos aires safety san telmo

Buenos Aires

The capital is one of the most picturesque cities in Latin America, and is filled with culture in almost every street corner.

The best things to do in Buenos Aires include watching a Milonga (where locals dance tango, sometimes impromptu), marvelling at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (one of the world’s best art galleries!) as well as visiting Recoleta Cemetery, which is famous for its maze of large mausoleums and for also being the resting place of Argentina’s most famous and influential.

You can also watch a professional Tango show at the Galería Güemes, where you also have an optional dinner included.

Iguazú Falls

One of the most popular sites to visit in South America, these stunning waterfalls thunder down from a drop of 195ft. With the surrounding jungle, this gem is one of the best photo spots in Argentina.

iguazu falls argentina

This attraction can be reached by bus from La Plata in around 20 hours (you’ll need to get used to these distances when backpacking in South America). This incredible, highly-rated tour is the best way to explore the Argentinian side of Iguazú Falls, which also included a boat trip around these powerful cascades

Iguazú Falls actually straddles three countries, and is located along the border with Brazil and Paraguay. This incredible, highly-rated tour is the best way to explore the Argentinian side of Iguazú Falls, which also included a boat trip around these powerful cascades

Salta

Located roughly 100 miles from both Bolivia and Chile, Salta is known for its other-worldly landscapes. Take the Tren a Las Nubes, where you’ll pass through the clouds until you reach Quebrada del Toro, some 4220 metres above sea level.

teleferico salta argentina itinerary

The Salinas Grandes Salt Flats are close by, where you can get some cool photos. Within the city, there some impressive architecture, such as Iglesia San Francisco and the Catedral Basílica de Salta which are worth the visit.

Mendoza

This city is located close to the Chilean border, and is well-known for its wine. The Uco Valley is the most popular to go for a winery tour, which is only an hour away and houses some of the best wineries in Latin America.

Mendoza is also great for adrenaline-pulsing activities, with many rock-climbing and white-water rafting hotspots located in the region.

Then we have Aconcagua, which is the tallest mountain in South America. Many come to Mendoza as a launching off point, and then spending a few weeks hiking up this 6900m+ beast.

Why not take some time to read our detailed Northern Argentina itinerary so you can learn even more about the treasures you can see in this region?

Ushuaia

The southernmost land point in South America, Ushuaia is a small fishing port city, and is also known as the final frontier before Antarctica.

Many come here to travel onwards to the floating ice continent, however there’s also lots of cool things to do in and close to the city.

For example, you can hike the stunning Laguna Esmeralda, spot King and Magellanic penguins here as well as take a tour out to El Perito Moreno, which is a massive permanent glacier that measures 3 miles wide and rises 78 metres above the surrounding lake.

We recommend this highly-rated tour where you’ll explore El Perito Moreno and Los Glaciares National Park, and also have a sight-seeing cruise included too.

What Budget Do I Need For Argentina?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $30 per day when traveling around Argentina (although at this current time, you can easily travel Argentina on just $20 a day).

This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Argentina Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

Home to amazing food, a distinct culture and various cosmopolitan cities, Argentina offers travelers a different kind of experience when backpacking through South America.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Argentina, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Uruguay Backpacking Guide

A tourist in Montevideo keeps her belongings close to here while in a public place

With an area of 181,000km², Uruguay is the smallest country on our list for South America.

Despite its tiny size, this country packs a real punch, with a mixture of passionate locals, a rich history and many interesting things to see.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do and see in Uruguay, which includes beautiful beaches, colonial architecture and even hot springs for those who love to kick back and take it easy.

Places to Visit in Uruguay

punta del este uruguay

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 1-2 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Uruguayan Peso
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: November-March
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Very Safe (10/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: Colonia de Sacramento

Montevideo

The capital of Uruguay has a population of 1.3 million, and is the biggest city in the country. The city is full of cultural highlights and colonial architecture, and simply walking around the city center is definitely a must whilst here!

The picturesque Plaza Independencia and Palacio Salvo – the latter which features a tango museum – are some of the best things to see in Montevideo.

You can also escape to De Los Pocitos, which is a beach located in the heart of the city, with lots of lively bars and restaurants lining its boardwalk.

Colonia

Short for Colonia del Sacramento, this city is located roughly 180km West of Montevideo, and lies across the Río de la Plata facing Buenos Aires. As an obvious destination that makes almost every Uruguay itinerary on the internet Colonia has a very charming vibe, with its lighthouse (Colonia del Sacramento) one of the best things to see, as well as being one of the most important historically. Colonia can easily be reached by boat from Buenos Aires in neighbouring Argentina. You can head here to pre-book your ferry tickets.

Other cool things to see here include the cute cobblestone-laden Calle de los Suspiros, as well as the now defunct yet mysteriously enticing Plaza de Toros de Real de San Carlos, which was an old bull-ring.

The hot springs of Almirón are also worth the visit, which are located roughly 3 hours away from Colonia.

Punta del Este

Once a small and quiet town, Punta del Este has now transformed into one of the most popular beach resort areas in South America. This town is well-known for its great beaches, with Playa Mansa and Playa Brava the most popular to kick back and relax on.

The iconic hand statue of Punta del Este is a must-see, with five giant fingers reaching out and up from the sand! Stroll down Avenida Gorlero, which is a picturesque tree-lined road with many shops and cafes to browse around and eat at.

Those strapped for time will love this Day Tour from Montevideo where you’ll visit all the highlights including Cerro San Antonio as well as the Monumento de la Mano

What Budget Do I Need For Uruguay?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $30-35 per day when traveling around Uruguay. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Uruguay Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

This tiny nation is known for its novel Gaucho culture and wild Atlantic beaches, and is a really refreshing experience when heading between neighboring Brazil and Argentina.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Uruguay, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Paraguay Backpacking Guide

asuncion paraguay

Paraguay Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 1-2 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Guaraní
  • ☀️ Best Best Time to Visit: May-October
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Very Safe (8/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: Encarnación

Arguably the most mysterious country of all, Paraguay is very often over-looked when backpackers are planning their trip to South America.

With stunning national parks, rich colonial heritage as well as being home to the Guaraní (one of the largest indigenous groups still alive today in South America), this country is simply awesome to travel to.

Now let’s take a look at why you should visit, and start rightfully putting Paraguay on the mainstream backpacking trail as it deserves.

Places to Visit in Paraguay

backpacking paraguay plaza italia paraguay

Ybycuí National Park

This stunning national park is located roughly 2 hours driving from Asuncíon, and is the best place to go to get away from all the noise and to immerse yourself in raw nature.

With over 5,000 hectares of protected tropical forest, here you can spot many rare animals endemic to the region such as capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, peccary, South American coati, as well as a range of exotic birds.

This adventure tour is the best way to explore all of the best highlights of the Ybycuí National Park

Head to the Arroyo Mina Recreation Area where many of the most popular hiking paths begin. From here you can then head off and explore the deeper parts of the jungle.

Asunción

The capital of Paraguay is an incredible yet understated city to visit in South America. The locals here speak a combination on Spanish and the indigenous Guaraní, and you’ll see many tribes dotted around different areas of the city.

making terere drink paraguay

Some of the best things to include the beautiful Palacio de López which serves as the presidential office, as well as the National Pantheon of Heroes, housing the remains of some of Paraguay’s most influential, as well as many unique artistic and cultural designs.

The Museo del Barrio is another cool place to explore, featuring many indigenous and important artefacts from Paraguay’s interesting past.

You can visit all of these gems with this guided tour, which is perfect for those who are short on time in the Paraguayan capital.

Encarnación

A small city located in the South of Paraguay, Encarnación lies along the Paraná River next to the border with Argentina. Rarely explored, this interesting city is well worth the visit.

Here you can visit the Plaza de Armas, which houses a stunning Japanese Garden which you can spend the morning strolling around.

Arguably the best destination to see here is the Misión Jesuítica de la Santísima, which is located in the nearby town of Trinidad, some 15km drive away.

Built in 1706, the former missionary is now a beautiful set of ruins, and at this time is the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s also the Playa San José, a beach that lies in the east of the city, along the Paraná.

What Budget Do I Need For Paraguay?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $20-25 per day when traveling around Paraguay. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Paraguay Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

Paraguay is a must-visit for those who love true off-the-beaten-path travel, where we can see crumbling Jesuit Ruins and spot rare wildlife in the Gran Chaco.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Paraguay, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Brazil Backpacking Guide

ipanema market rio brazil

Brazil Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 6-12 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Real
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: December-April
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Moderate (5/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: Rio de Janeiro

Brazil is one of the most diverse countries to backpack in Latin America.

With its various unique cultures, sense of adventure and party, as well as some truly incredible destinations, Brazil has an allure like no other!

Now let’s take a look at the best of Brazil, the top destinations to visit as well as why many end up spending weeks if not months more than originally planned in this vibrant and welcoming country.

Places to Visit in Brazil

copacabana beach rio

Rio de Janeiro

Arguably the most popular and famous destination in this entire article, Rio has everything and can accommodate pretty much all travelers! Home to the popular Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, there are also world-class beaches a stone’s throw away such as Ilha Grande.

Hike up to Corcovado (the statue of Christ the Redeemer), which has firmly cemented its place as one of the Seven Wonders of the world. Sugarloaf Mountain is also a truly incredible phenomenon, with the 1210ft monolith jutting out of seemingly nowhere, which can be ascended by using the gondola for some of the best views across Rio.

This ultimate Day Tour is the very best way to see all of Rio’s highlights, including Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain as well as the Maracanã Stadium.

Salvador

Located in the northern state of Bahía, Salvador is known for its melting hotpot of culture and with its mix of Latin and afro-Caribbean heritages.

pelourinho salvador brazil

Whilst Rio’s Carnival steals most of the headlines, it’s Salvador which hosts the best Carnival, with many deeming it the best in the world.

This spectacular festival takes place during the four days before Ash Wednesday, which is usually in March or April annually.

Another absolute must-see is Pelourinho, which is the historic capital of Salvador. A UNESCO heritage site, here you can wander around the beautiful district, which is full of colonial Portuguese architecture as well as being a lively area to explore during the evening and into the night.

São Paulo

The largest city in South America, São Paulo is home to over 42 million people and is the most important industrial city of Brazil.

liberdade sao paulo brazil

A huge multi-cultural centre, here you can explore the dynamic range of Brazilian cuisine such as Pao de Queijo, as well as popular foods from the region including Virada Paulista.

Some of the best things to do in São Paulo include the imposing neo-gothic cathedral, the stunning Municipal Theatre as well as the Mercado Municipal de São Paulo, which is the most vibrant and exotic food markets in the city.

For those who love green spaces, head to Ibirapuera Park, which has over 150 hectares of trees and nature which provides the perfect contrast to the sometimes over-bearing city.

This helicopter tour is an amazing way to see São Paulo and its top highlights, which includes a fly over Ibirapuera Park and Paulista Avenue.

Florianópolis

Arguably the king of beaches, this city is the capital of the Southern state of Santa Catarina, and is located on an island connected by a small road from the mainland.

Some of its post-card perfect beaches include Lagoinha do Leste, Praia Moçambique and Praia Mole, with the latter great for surfing.

Aside from bronzing up or sipping on Caprinhas, be sure to visit Fortaleza de Santo Antônio de Ratonesm, which is located on the northern bay of Santa Catarina. This old, crumbling fortress was once an important detention centre for those arriving by sea. Today it’s a great photo-ops area with its array of cannons and watchtowers perched on its highest vantage points.

The Amazon

It’s impossible to miss out The Amazon rainforest in Brazil, which is known as the breathing lungs of South America. Due to its massive size, there are tonnes of different destinations to visit in the Brazilian region alone.

is the brazilian amazon rainforest safe

Manaus is usually the most popular area to start expeditions from, with the urban metropolis located in the heart of The Amazon. This customizable, multi-day tour is one of our best recommendations for a trek into the Brazilian Amazon

Other popular destinations include Macapá and Santarem, where you can also spot many rare animals such as Black Caiman, Jaguars as well as the Amazon River Dolphin.

As well as seeing the wildlife, another cool thing to do is to take the boat down the Amazon, which can take a couple of weeks depending on the route, where you’ll really get into the rawest and most untouched parts of the jungle.

What Budget Do I Need For Brazil?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $30 per day when traveling around Brazil. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Brazil Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

There really is no other country like Brazil. With a fascinating history and fun culture, you’ll find it especially hard to leave after living it up in Rio de Janeiro and chilling out on beaches along the north coast.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Brazil, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Guyana Backpacking Guide

Guyana takes the cherry for the least visited country on our list. In fact, many South Americans don’t even know it exists on their continent!

Guyana Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 2-4 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Guyanese Dollar
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: September-March
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Moderate (6/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: –

This country is definitely our pick for those who want to really get off the beaten path, with many secluded beaches, the magnificent Kaieteur Falls as well as the colonial capital of Georgetown all waiting to be explored.

In this guide we’ll delve into the relatively unknown and seldom trodden country of Guyana, look at the best things to do as well as why we believe it should be explored on a trip to South America.

Places to Visit in Guyana

backpacking guyana georgetown

Kaieteur National Park

Home to Kaieteur Falls, which is the largest single-drop waterfall in the world. To help with scale, these falls are roughly five times the size of Niagara Falls!

The national park here is the best place to spot nature in Guyana, and is situated between The Amazon as well as The Guiana Shield.

Here there are many rare and exotic species, such as the Tiny Golden Frog and Giant River Otters. Another must-see are the table-top mountains, which have a near vertical drop on all sides and a flat top.

To get here, you can either fly using a small commercial plane from Georgetown, or instead head on this 8 Day Trekking Adventure which includes all meals, a visit to the Rupununi Savannah as well as chances to spot extremely rare wildlife

Georgetown

George’s favourite capital in the world (something to do with the name, probably) Georgetown will most likely be your first point of entry into Guyana.

With rich colonial heritage due to past influence from the Dutch and English (and beyond), the city now boasts many Victorian and colonial Dutch architecture, making it seems something out of a Disney film.

The best things to see here include St. George’s Cathedral, which at 132ft, is among one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world. Head to the Botanic Gardens to spot an array of exotic plants such as the Victoria Regia Lily (Guyana’s national flower), and also visit the Museum of Guyana to see many old Guyanese sculptures and paintings.

We highly recommend this guided city tour of Georgetown, where you’ll have private transportation between all of the sights with lunch included.

The Atlantic Coast

Whilst the other two destinations are somewhat known, the Atlantic Coast in Guyana is pure and wild. Here you can find many unexplored and undeveloped beaches and towns which are perfect for relaxing and also for those who love a sense of adventure.

Shell Beach is the most beautiful in Guyana, where you can also spot the very rare giant sea turtles. To get here, you’ll need to go by boat from nearby Mabaruma. Danielstown is another solid option, with its Mainstay Lake a great place for relaxing or winding down.

In terms of other options? Ask the locals! Guyana is one of the best countries in South America for true off the beaten path travel, and the locals will always know a secret or two.

Guyana Travel Tips

⬇️ Below you can find a list of our top recommendations for Guyana:

  • AccommodationArmoury Hostel (Georgetown), Lake Mainstay Resort (Danielstown).
  • Food – With its varied colonial history, you’ll find a range of foods here with everything from Indian and Portuguese to local Caribbean tastes. The Original Palm Court in Georgetown is a good option for those who want to try out more local foods.
  • Top Sights – Kaieteur Falls, Shell Beach, St. George’s Cathedral (Georgetown).
  • Best Nightlife – In Georgetown, Sheriff Street is the place to be for a good night out, with Nightcap being one of the best. You’ll also find many small bars dotted around the Bel Air Park district.
  • Our Local Tip – Guyana is quite a poor country, and therefore there can be some issues with safety. Georgetown can be quite rough in areas, so to avoid any problems it’s best to dress-down and to not wear any expensive jewellery or eye-catching watches. In other words, use common sense!

What Budget Do I Need For Guyana?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $25-30 per day when traveling around Guyana. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Guyana Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

Guyana is another lesser-visited country here in South America, and one that we have still yet to visit ourselves. However from what we’ve heard here on the ground, it offers a very different experience with its British colonial architecture as well as the giant crashing waterfalls of Kaieteur.

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for the entire South American continent, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

It’s important to mention that we don’t currently cover Guyana in this eBook since we haven’t been here (we believe in being real and only writing about true experiences). However it’s in our plans, so once we do we will add this to the eBook, where you’ll get the update for free after making a purchase at any prior time.

Venezuela Backpacking Guide

backpacking venezuela itinerary

Venezuela Quick Summary:

  • 🕰 Time Needed: 4-8 Weeks
  • 💴 Currency: Bolívar, US Dollar (Unofficially)
  • ☀️ Best Time to Visit: November-April
  • 👮‍♀️ Safety Score: Moderate (4/10)
  • ⭐️ Our Highlight: Canaima National Park

Venezuela is the bad boy of South America. Much of the news coming out of the country is negative, and let’s not kid ourselves – this country is facing sobering problems at the moment.

However, with proper planning and a daring attitude, you’ll witness an incredibly beautiful country that most will never see in their lives.

From the tallest waterfall in the world – Angel Waterfalls – to the mesmerizing beaches of Los Roques and cute colonial cities such as Mérida, Venezuela is a treat for those who dare to be brave.

Places to Visit in Venezuela

merida pico espejo venezuela

Mérida

Situated in the Andean mountains, this colonial city is one of the most beautiful urban destinations to visit in Venezuela.

It’s well-known for its university scene and student life, and therefore is one of the party destinations in the country with tonnes of nightlife options that go on well into the night and early morning.

We’ve covered more sights in our backpacking Venezuela guide! Places such as Plaza Bolívar allow you to expore the city and admire the old Spanish-influenced buildings as well as watch locals going about their everyday life.

The nearby Bosque de Pino (Pine Forest) is a definitely worth a visit, which during the morning is covered with low clouds that gives the area a really eerie feeling, and is great for photo ops.

Caracas

caracas historic center venezuela

The capital of Venezuela strikes fear into most hearts, perhaps somewhat justifiably. The truth is it can be dangerous, especially for tourists who don’t know how the country works and the where / what to avoid.

However with proper planning and care, you can experience the best of the city without any trouble. One of the best things to see here includes riding one of the longest cable cars in the world up to Cerro El Ávila, where you’ll get some incredible views of the city.

Museo Bolivar is a good visit for those looking to learn more about Venezuela’s both interesting and turbulent past.

Los Roques

This stunning archipelago is located in the Caribbean Sea, roughly 160km north of Caracas. Home to some of the most stunning beaches in South America, you can get here by taking a short flight from Caracas.

One of the best things to do here is the diving, where you’ll see many exotic marine wildlife such as sharks, angel fish and spotfin butterfly fish. As well as this, you can take a boat out to a few of the some 40 deserted islands and feel like the king of an uncharted paradise.

Santa Elena de Uairén

This small town is located in the south of Venezuela in the state of Bolívar, which is close to the Brazilian border. Santa Elena is the jumping-off point for exploring the very best nature the country has to offer.

Here you can take a tour to Angel Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in the world. Another must-do is the hike to Mount Roraima, which are a series of table-top mountains which you reach at the end of a stunning 7-day hike through the jungle.

Head a few hours to the north to see Aponwao Falls, which are a series of beautiful cascading waterfalls located in the jungle.

What Budget Do I Need For Venezuela?

We recommend backpackers to budget around $30 per day when traveling around Venezuela. This will cover your accommodation (a dorm bed), three meals in local restaurants as well as using public transport to get around your destination.

This budget doesn’t account for extras such as flights, long buses or organized tours. You’ll also want to add more to your daily budget if you get a private room, or prefer to eat at nicer restaurants throughout the day.

Traveling to Venezuela Soon? Get Our Official Travel Bible

Venezuela is an electric country in every sense of the word – the fascinating culture, proud people, amazing food and diverse landscapes. Dare to visit, and you may also not want to leave!

Be sure to get our South America Travel Bible (eBook) where we list our premium itineraries for Venezuela, how to stay safe, the best things to do here, how to find the right accommodation and much more! We are currently offering our book at a discounted price, so be sure to get your copy now before prices rise in the future!

Backpacking South America

Finally (and sadly) we’ve come to end with this monster guide to backpacking South America!

In this guide we’ve looked at everything you’ll need to know for a trip to this beautiful and vast continent. This includes all the top destinations to visit, some lesser-known yet mesmerizing gems, the varying cultures and languages, the different currencies, budgeting and everything else!

As you’ve seen, this continent really is one of the best to explore, with lots of adventure and spectacular regions and destinations to visit.

Be sure to bookmark this page and come back as you need. We’ll be updating as we travel more around this continent, and will add new places and tips when possible.

We hope you enjoyed reading this monster guide! If you have any questions or want advice, drop a comment below and we’ll get back to you when we can.

If you want more inspiration just see South America travel guide for all our best advice when it comes to visiting this mammoth continent.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, you can buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our very best content.


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