South America: Complete Guide To Destinations, Costs And Itineraries (2026)

South America is one of the most diverse continents in the world for travel. In just a few hours of flight, you can go from a vibrant metropolis to Andean landscapes covered in snow, cross surreal deserts, explore tropical forests, or relax on paradise beaches.

For Brazilians, traveling is even more advantageous: because of the proximity, the ease of documentation, and the more affordable cost make the continent one of the best options for those who want to take a first international trip — or even several.

In this complete guide, you will discover:

The best countries to visit
How much traveling costs
When to go to each destination
Ready-made itineraries
Transportation and safety tips
Real strategies to save money

👉 If you are still structuring your trip, we also recommend starting with our guide on How to Plan an International Trip.

📊 Summary Table – South America

Item	Information
Best time	Depends on the country and regional climate
Currency	Varies by country
Documentation	ID card or passport (depending on the destination)
Average daily cost	R$150 to R$600 (varies a lot)
Ideal profile	Backpackers, couples, adventurers, and cultural travelers

What is South America and why travel around the continent?

South America is made up of 12 countries, including Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Uruguay. It is a continent marked by cultural diversity, indigenous influences, European colonization, and extremely rich nature.

Traveling through South American countries means having access to completely different experiences within a single continent:

Mountains and snow in the Andes Mountains
Tropical beaches in Brazil and Colombia
Deserts like the Atacama
Historic and colonial cities
Forests like the Amazon

In addition, it is an excellent gateway for those who want to start traveling internationally without facing major cultural or financial barriers.

🌎 Main destinations in South America

🇦🇷 Argentina

Argentina is one of the most visited destinations in South America. Buenos Aires blends culture, gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife.

👉 See our complete guide to Buenos Aires.

🇨🇱 Chile

Chile is one of the most diverse countries on the continent, with destinations such as:

Atacama Desert
Santiago
Patagonia

🇵🇪 Peru

Peru is one of the most sought-after destinations in South America because of Machu Picchu and Andean culture.

🇨🇴 Colombia

With cities like Cartagena and Medellín, Colombia stands out for its tropical climate and cost-effectiveness.

🇺🇾 Uruguay

An ideal destination for short trips, with highlights including Montevideo and Punta del Este.

🇧🇷 Brazil

Before leaving the country, it is worth considering exploring incredible destinations within Brazil.

👉 See our guide to Destinations in Brazil.

🗺️ Classic Itineraries Through South America

Putting together an itinerary through South America may seem simple, but choosing the right destinations makes all the difference in the experience. Below you will find ready-made itinerary suggestions organized by traveler profile.

✈️ Classic itinerary in South America (first international trip)

If it is your first trip outside Brazil, the ideal is to choose destinations with good infrastructure, easy access, and balanced costs.

Buenos Aires (Argentina) – 4 to 5 days
A vibrant city with great gastronomy, culture, and excellent cost-effectiveness.
👉 See complete guide
Montevideo (Uruguay) – 2 days
A calm, safe destination and perfect for slowing down.
Punta del Este – 1 to 2 days
Great for beaches and day trips from Montevideo.
Santiago (Chile) – 3 to 4 days
A good base to visit wineries, snow (in winter), and Andean landscapes.

👉 This is one of the most balanced itineraries in South America for those who want to start with confidence.

🌄 Nature and adventure itinerary in South America

If you are looking for unique experiences and impressive landscapes, this itinerary is ideal.

Patagonia (Chile and Argentina) – 4 to 6 days
Mountains, glaciers, and incredible trails — one of the most impressive destinations on the continent.
Atacama Desert (Chile) – 3 to 4 days
Surreal landscapes, high-altitude lagoons, and starry skies.
Machu Picchu (Peru) – 3 to 4 days
One of the most iconic experiences in South America, combining history and nature.

👉 This itinerary requires more planning, but delivers one of the most complete experiences on the continent.

💰 Budget itinerary through South America

If the idea is to save money, choosing the destination well is essential.

Buenos Aires (Argentina) – 5 days
Excellent cost-effectiveness for Brazilians.
Colombia (Cartagena or Medellín) – 4 to 6 days
Tropical climate, affordable prices, and good tourist infrastructure.
Bolivia (La Paz + Salar de Uyuni) – 4 to 5 days
One of the cheapest destinations in South America, with unique experiences.

👉 To save even more, travel outside the high season and monitor tickets in advance.

🗺️ Complete itineraries through South America (7, 10, and 15 days)

One of the biggest questions for those planning to travel through South America is how to create a balanced itinerary. Below, you will find ready-made suggestions for different trip lengths.

✈️ 7-day itinerary in South America (ideal for a first trip)

If it is your first international experience, the ideal is to choose just one destination and explore it calmly.

Recommended destination: Buenos Aires (Argentina)
Day 1: arrival and getting to know the city
Day 2: historic center and traditional cafés
Day 3: neighborhoods such as Palermo and Recoleta
Day 4: tango and gastronomy
Day 5: day trip (Tigre or Colonia del Sacramento)
Day 6: shopping and local experiences
Day 7: return

👉 See the complete guide:
Buenos Aires

🌎 10-day itinerary in South America

With 10 days, it is already possible to combine two nearby destinations.

Suggested itinerary:
Buenos Aires (Argentina) – 5 days
Montevideo (Uruguay) – 2 days
Punta del Este – 2 days
Return – 1 day

This is one of the most classic and balanced itineraries in South America.

🌄 15-day itinerary in South America (complete experience)

If you have more time, you can put together a more intense and diverse trip.

Santiago (Chile) – 3 days
Atacama Desert – 4 days
Buenos Aires – 4 days
Montevideo – 2 days
Return – 2 days

This itinerary mixes extreme nature, urban culture, and gastronomy.

🎯 Best country in South America for each traveler profile

💰 For those who want to save money

Argentina (depending on the exchange rate)
Colombia
Bolivia

💑 For couples

Buenos Aires
Patagonia
Chile (wineries)

🌄 For adventure

Peru (Machu Picchu)
Chile (Atacama)
Patagonia

🏖️ For the beach

Brazil
Colombia
Uruguay

👉 Also explore:
Destinations in Brazil

🎯 Strategic tip for building your itinerary

Avoid mixing too many countries in just a few days
Prioritize destinations close to each other
Consider the climate of each region
Create a realistic itinerary (without rushing)

👉 To build a perfect itinerary, also see:
How to Plan an International Trip

💰 How much it costs to travel through South America

The cost of a trip through South America can vary greatly depending on the destination, travel style, and time of year. In general, the continent offers excellent cost-effectiveness, especially when compared to destinations such as Europe or the United States.

Below you will find an average of expenses by traveler profile:

Profile	Daily average	What it includes
Budget	R$150 to R$250	Hostels, public transportation, and simple meals
Mid-range	R$250 to R$450	3-star hotels, restaurants, and tours
Comfort	R$450 to R$900+	Higher-end hotels, experiences, and private transportation

👉 Compare with other destinations:
How much it costs to travel around the world

📊 Average cost by country in South America

To help you plan better, here is a practical average of expenses in the main destinations in South America:

🇦🇷 Argentina

R$150 to R$350 per day
Great cost-effectiveness for Brazilians
Highlight: Buenos Aires and gastronomy

🇨🇱 Chile

R$250 to R$600 per day
One of the most expensive countries in South America
Highlight: Santiago and Atacama

🇵🇪 Peru

R$200 to R$450 per day
Good cost-benefit ratio
Highlight: Machu Picchu

🇨🇴 Colombia

R$150 to R$350 per day
One of the cheapest destinations on the continent
Highlight: Cartagena and Medellín

🇺🇾 Uruguay

R$300 to R$700 per day
High cost, especially in summer
Highlight: Punta del Este

🇧🇴 Bolivia

R$120 to R$250 per day
One of the cheapest countries in South America
Highlight: Salar de Uyuni

🇪🇨 Ecuador

R$200 to R$400 per day
A good option for nature and culture
Highlight: Galápagos Islands (more expensive)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

R$120 to R$250 per day
A budget-friendly and little-explored destination

🇻🇪 Venezuela

R$150 to R$300 per day
Can vary greatly due to economic instability

🇬🇾 Guyana

R$200 to R$400 per day
A more isolated destination, focused on nature

🇸🇷 Suriname

R$200 to R$400 per day
Not very touristy, a different cultural experience

🇧🇷 Brazil

R$150 to R$500 per day
Great variation depending on the city
👉 See destinations in Brazil

💡 Tips to save money in South America

Travel in the low season
Use miles for tickets
Book accommodation in advance
Prefer public transportation
Avoid exchange offices at airports

👉 See also:
Miles and Airfare

📅 When to go to South America

The best time to travel through South America depends on the destination chosen, since the continent has great climate diversity. From tropical regions to high-altitude areas and extreme cold, each country has its best time to visit.

Below, see when to go to the main destinations in South America:

🇦🇷 Argentina (Patagonia) → summer (December to March) for hiking and open landscapes; winter (June to August) for snow
🇨🇱 Chile (Atacama and Santiago) → Atacama can be visited all year round; Santiago is best in spring and fall
🇵🇪 Peru (Machu Picchu and the Andes) → dry season (May to September) is best for hiking and visits
🇨🇴 Colombia → relatively stable climate all year round, with small variations in rain
🇺🇾 Uruguay → summer (December to March) for beaches; calmer and more cultural in winter
🇧🇷 Brazil → tropical destinations can be visited all year round, with regional variations
🇧🇴 Bolivia (Salar de Uyuni) → dry season (April to October) for classic landscapes; rainy season (December to March) for the mirror effect
🇪🇨 Ecuador → can be visited all year round; Galápagos has better visibility between June and November
🇵🇾 Paraguay → best in fall and winter, avoiding the intense summer heat
🇻🇪 Venezuela → dry season (December to April) is the most recommended for exploring nature
🇬🇾 Guyana → best between September and April, avoiding periods of heavy rain
🇸🇷 Suriname → the drier months between August and November are ideal for visiting

👉 As a general rule, South America can be visited all year round — you just need to choose the right destination for each season.

✈️ How to get around South America

Getting around South America is easier than it seems — but choosing the right means of transportation can directly affect cost, travel time, and experience.

Because it is a large continent, with long distances between countries, the ideal is to combine different forms of transportation depending on the itinerary.

✈️ Regional flights (faster and more practical)

To cover long distances in South America, the airplane is the best option. Airlines such as LATAM, Sky, and JetSmart operate frequent flights between the main destinations.

Ideal for trips between countries
Saves a lot of time
Great cost-effectiveness in promotions

👉 Tip: buy tickets in advance or use miles to save money.

👉 See our complete guide:
Miles and Airfare

🚌 International buses (cheaper)

Buses are very popular in South America and connect cities and countries with good frequency.

More economical than flying
A good option for short or medium routes
Some offer high comfort (reclining seats)

Common routes:

Argentina ↔ Chile
Brazil ↔ Uruguay
Peru ↔ Bolivia

👉 Ideal for those who want to save money and live the local experience.

🚗 Rental car (specific itineraries)

Renting a car can be an excellent option in some regions of South America, especially for those who want more freedom.

Perfect for trips in Patagonia
Great for exploring regions such as Atacama
Ideal for itineraries outside the big cities

⚠️ Attention:

Check border rules between countries
Consider road conditions

🚇 Urban transportation in cities

In the major cities of South America, you will have good mobility options:

Subway (Buenos Aires, Santiago, Medellín)
Uber and similar apps
Urban buses

👉 See also:
How to use transportation safely

📄 Documentation for traveling through South America

One of the biggest advantages of traveling through South America is the ease of entry for Brazilians. Unlike other continents, many countries allow entry with just an identity document (RG), without the need for a passport.

This makes South America an excellent option for those who want to take their first international trip in a simple and economical way.

🪪 Countries that accept ID card (for Brazilians)

In Mercosur and associated countries, Brazilians can enter with only a valid ID card:

🇦🇷 Argentina
🇺🇾 Uruguay
🇨🇱 Chile
🇵🇾 Paraguay
🇧🇴 Bolivia
🇵🇪 Peru
🇨🇴 Colombia

👉 This greatly facilitates quick trips and reduces bureaucracy.

⚠️ Important rules for using an ID card

Although you do not need a passport, the ID card must meet some mandatory criteria:

Original document (cannot be a copy)
Issued less than 10 years ago
Current photo that allows identification
In good condition (without tears or damage)

⚠️ CNH (driver’s license) is not accepted as a document for entry into other countries.

🛂 When is a passport necessary?

For some destinations in South America, a passport is mandatory:

🇬🇾 Guyana
🇸🇷 Suriname
🇻🇪 Venezuela (rules may vary)

👉 Even when it is not mandatory, traveling with a passport can make processes easier at airports and immigration.

📌 Do you need a visa to travel through South America?

In most countries in South America, Brazilians do not need a visa for short-term tourism (up to 90 days).

⚠️ Exceptions may exist depending on the length of stay or reason for travel.

💉 Vaccines and health requirements

Some destinations may require proof of vaccination:

Yellow fever (especially Amazon regions)
Specific recommendations depending on the country

👉 Always check updated requirements before the trip.

🧠 Important tips to avoid problems

Always carry a backup document (if possible)
Keep a digital copy on your phone
Check validity before traveling
Arrive at airports in advance

👉 For a complete guide with all the details on documents, visas, and international planning, see:
How to Plan an International Trip

💱 Exchange rate: how to really save money

The exchange rate is one of the points that most affects the cost of your trip through South America. Each country has its own currency and different economic behavior.

Practical tips to save money

Avoid exchanging money at airports
Use an international card in formal establishments
Carry some cash
Monitor the exchange rate before traveling

Smart strategy

Today, the ideal is to combine:

International card (such as Wise or Nomad)
Cash for small expenses
Credit card for emergencies

🛡️ Safety

Safety in South America varies greatly from city to city. In general, tourist destinations have good infrastructure, but it is important to take basic precautions.

Essential tips

Avoid displaying your phone and valuables
Prefer official transportation at night
Use anti-theft backpacks
Stay alert in very crowded areas

Travel insurance: is it worth it?

Yes — even when it is not mandatory. Travel insurance can cover:

Medical care
Lost baggage
Flight cancellations

🏨 Where to stay in South America

Choosing where to stay well can completely transform your experience in South America. The location of the accommodation directly affects safety, transportation, and even how much you will enjoy the destination.

In general, the best strategy is always to prioritize tourist neighborhoods that are well reviewed and have good infrastructure.

📍 Essential tips for choosing accommodation

Prefer central or tourist areas
Check recent reviews (score + comments)
Consider proximity to subway or transportation
Avoid very isolated areas at night
See real guest photos

🌎 Best neighborhoods to stay in South America (by country)

🇦🇷 Argentina (Buenos Aires)

Palermo → modern, safe, and with nightlife
Recoleta → elegant and well located
Downtown → practical, but busier

🇨🇱 Chile (Santiago)

Providencia → best cost-effectiveness
Las Condes → more modern and safer
Bellavista → more alternative

🇵🇪 Peru (Cusco and Lima)

Miraflores (Lima) → touristy and safe
Historic center (Cusco) → close to tourist attractions

🇨🇴 Colombia

El Poblado (Medellín) → best area for tourists
Getsemaní (Cartagena) → vibrant and cultural

🇺🇾 Uruguay

Pocitos (Montevideo) → modern and safe
Peninsula (Punta del Este) → close to everything

🇧🇴 Bolivia

Downtown (La Paz) → best access to tourist attractions
Uyuni → close to tour agencies

🇪🇨 Ecuador

La Mariscal (Quito) → touristy and well located
Historic center → cultural, but requires attention at night

🇵🇾 Paraguay

Downtown (Asunción) → practical and economical

🇻🇪 Venezuela

Main tourist areas → always check updated safety conditions

🇬🇾 Guyana

Georgetown → best infrastructure

🇸🇷 Suriname

Paramaribo (downtown) → best base for tourists

🇧🇷 Brazil

Tourist zones (varies by city)
👉 Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro

💡 Strategic tip to save money on accommodation

Booking in advance makes a big difference, especially in the most competitive destinations in South America.

High season → prices go up quickly
Weekends → more expensive
Events → can double the price

👉 See our complete guide:
Where to Stay

👉 To compare prices and book with a discount:
Search hotels on Booking

🍽️ What is the gastronomy like in South America?

South America is a true gastronomic paradise. Each country has its own identity, indigenous, European, and African influences, as well as local ingredients that make the cuisine extremely rich and diverse.

Traveling through South America is also a sensory experience: intense flavors, traditional dishes, and unique combinations are part of the culture of each destination.

🌎 Typical dishes by country in South America

🇦🇷 Argentina

Parrilla (grilled meats)
Empanadas
Choripán
A major highlight for wines and meats

🇨🇱 Chile

Seafood (king crab, shellfish)
Pastel de choclo
Renowned Chilean wines

🇵🇪 Peru

Ceviche (one of the most famous in the world)
Lomo saltado
Andean cuisine with a strong identity

🇨🇴 Colombia

Arepas
Bandeja paisa
Tropical fruits and natural juices

🇺🇾 Uruguay

Chivito (traditional sandwich)
Uruguayan parrilla
Strong influence from Argentine cuisine

🇧🇴 Bolivia

Salteñas (like an empanada)
Dishes with potatoes and corn
Simple and traditional cuisine

🇪🇨 Ecuador

Ecuadorian ceviche
Dishes with plantain
Seafood

🇵🇾 Paraguay

Paraguayan soup (savory cake)
Chipa (like cheese bread)
Rustic and flavorful cuisine

🇻🇪 Venezuela

Stuffed arepas
Pabellón criollo
Caribbean influence

🇬🇾 Guyana

Indian and Caribbean influence
Dishes with curry and rice

🇸🇷 Suriname

Mix of Asian, African, and Caribbean cuisine
Dishes with rice, spices, and meats

🇧🇷 Brazil

Feijoada, barbecue, and regional dishes
Extremely diverse cuisine (north to south)
👉 See restaurants in Rio

🍷 What to expect from gastronomy in South America

Fresh and local ingredients
Traditional dishes with cultural history
Wide variety of flavors
Good cost-benefit ratio

💡 Tips to make the most of gastronomy

Try local typical dishes
Avoid only tourist restaurants
Explore markets and fairs
Try regional drinks (wines, juices, cocktails)

👉 If you enjoy gastronomic experiences, it is also worth exploring our restaurant and local experience guides:
Restaurants in Rio de Janeiro

📱 Internet and connectivity in South America

Today it is essential to travel connected. In South America, you can use:

International eSIM
Local SIM card
Hotel Wi-Fi

👉 Tip: eSIM is usually the most practical option.

💡 Smart strategy for traveling through South America

If you want to save money and travel better through South America, some strategies make all the difference.

1. Choose the destination well

The cheapest is not always the best. Consider:

Current exchange rate
Ticket cost
Trip profile

2. Use miles and promotions

Flights within South America usually have good opportunities.

👉 See:
Miles and Airfare

3. Avoid high season

December and January → more expensive
Holidays → high demand

4. Book accommodation in advance

👉 Search accommodation:
Hotels with discounts

📍 Final tips for planning your trip through South America

If you made it this far, you already have a very solid foundation for organizing your trip through South America. Now it is time to turn planning into action.

Define your travel style
Choose the destination based on your profile
Create a realistic itinerary
Book accommodation in advance
Monitor airfare

👉 To deepen your planning even further, also see:

✔ Is it worth traveling through South America?

Yes — very much.

South America offers a combination that is hard to find on other continents:

Affordable cost
Great cultural diversity
Ease of access
Unique experiences

Whether for a first international trip or to explore new destinations, the continent is one of the best choices.

⚠️ Common mistakes when planning a trip through South America

Underestimating distances
Not monitoring the exchange rate
Traveling without insurance
Not planning the itinerary
Ignoring the local climate

Avoiding these mistakes already puts your trip well above average.

❓ FAQ – South America (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the best country in South America for a first trip?

For most Brazilians, Argentina is the best destination to start with. Buenos Aires offers good infrastructure, affordable cost, and ease of communication.

Do you need a passport to travel through South America?

Not necessarily. Many countries accept an ID card, as long as it is in good condition and has a recent photo. Even so, having a passport is always recommended.

Which is the cheapest country in South America?

It depends on the economic moment, but Argentina, Bolivia, and Colombia usually have excellent cost-effectiveness for Brazilians.

How many days are ideal to get to know South America?

Ideally, between 7 and 15 days per trip. To explore several countries, it is recommended to create itineraries of 10 to 20 days.

Is it safe to travel through South America?

Yes, as long as you follow basic safety precautions, such as avoiding displaying valuables and choosing well the areas where you will stay.

What is the best time to travel through South America?

It depends on the destination. Each country has a different climate, so the ideal is to plan based on the chosen itinerary.

Is it worth backpacking through South America?

Yes. South America is one of the best continents in the world for backpacking, with good infrastructure, viable distances, and relatively low cost.

Do I need travel insurance?

It is not mandatory in most countries, but it is highly recommended to avoid unforeseen problems.

🌎 Conclusion: is it worth traveling through South America?

Yes — and perhaps this is one of the best decisions you can make as a traveler.

South America delivers experiences that go far beyond traditional tourism. It is a continent where you find cultural diversity, unique landscapes, and a much closer connection with people and places.

Whether for a short trip or a more complete itinerary, exploring South America is a smart, affordable, and extremely rich way to travel.

And the best part: often without having to go very far.