10 Hidden Gems in South America

This park sits in southern Chilean Patagonia. It includes large mountains and glaciers. Visit between November and March for the best weather. These months offer the longest daylight hours for hiking. Be prepared for extremely high winds at any time. The weather changes rapidly, so pack layers.

This is an island group located 354 km off the coast of Brazil. Only the main island is inhabited. August to November is the best time to visit. The sea is calmest during these months. It is expensive to reach. You must pay an environmental preservation tax to enter the island.

Cartagena is a major port city on the northern coast of Colombia. It holds significant history from the colonial era. Travel between December and March for dry weather. This is when the city is most accessible for walking tours. It gets very hot and humid. Humidity is often high throughout the year.

This glacier is located in Los Glaciares National Park. It is part of a large ice field shared by Argentina and Chile. Visit from November to March to see the glacier when the temperatures are moderate. This is the peak season for access. It is a long journey from major cities. You will likely need to fly to El Calafate first.

The falls are located on the border of Argentina and Brazil. It is the largest waterfall system in the world. Visit during the shoulder months of March, April, May, September, October, or November. You will avoid the heaviest crowds. Be prepared for heavy mist. You will get wet while walking the paths near the water.

This salt flat is in southwestern Bolivia. It sits at an elevation of over 3,600 meters. Visit from December to March to see the mirror effect if it rains. This is the wet season. Altitude sickness is a real risk here. Stay hydrated and rest before doing any strenuous activity.

The islands are located 898 km west of the Ecuadorian mainland. They are famous for endemic species. Visit in June, July, August, December, or January. These months offer a mix of calm seas and clear visibility. It is not a budget destination. The costs for transport between islands are high.

This Roman Catholic cathedral was designed by Oscar Niemeyer. It is a landmark in the city of Brasília. Visit from May to August for cooler, drier weather. This makes walking through the city much more comfortable. It is a functional church. Be respectful if a mass is taking place during your visit.

The dam is on the Paraná River between Brazil and Paraguay. It produces massive amounts of electricity. Visit between May and August to avoid peak summer heat. The weather is milder for the outdoor tours. Security is tight. You must show a valid passport to take a tour of the facility.

The desert spans northern Chile. It is known for its extreme aridity and high altitude. Visit in March, April, May, September, October, or November. These months avoid the extreme summer heat and winter cold. Nights are freezing even in summer. Pack heavy clothing for the evenings.