Our 2018 Emerging Destinations in South America

Originally published November 9, 2017

This is part of a series on the Best Places to Travel in 2018 for each continent around the globe.

The continent of South America has long offered tourists a lot to do. But in 2018, it’s time to explore beyond just Rio and Machu Picchu, and instead, check out of some of South America’s spots that have yet to be overrun by tourists.

From lounging on a beach in Uruguay, to visiting cities miles in the sky, to exploring village marketplaces, there is a lot to do in these incredible destinations on this list.

I’ve asked some of the world’s best travel bloggers to help me pick the top destinations for 2018 and beyond. These are people who spend their entire lives traveling the globe, so they know where is poised for a big tourist boom.

2018’s Best Places to Visit in South America

Florianópolis, Brasil

Florianópolis, which sits on the Island of Santa Catarina just off the Brazilian coast, has all the ingredients to become the next “it” spot but – fortunately for you – it hasn’t gotten a ton of international attention yet. The city boasts beautiful beaches, mountains, and a giant lagoon but the real reason to come is for the surf.

It’s the perfect spot to learn – or perfect – your wave-catching skills. Follow that long day on the beach with fresh seafood and a cold beer while watching the perfect sunset and you’re living the good life. Get here by plane or bus, plan to stay in a posada, and make this low-key ocean paradise your next destination.
-Scott from The Line Trek

Read Next: 24 Tips for Visiting Iguazu Falls

La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz, Bolivia is like a modern-day city in the clouds, and quite literally one of the top destinations in the continent. At almost 12,000 feet in elevation, the city of two and a half million residents sits at a dizzying height.

What’s more, it’s surrounded by snow-capped mountains, including the mystical Illimani mountain, which towers at a staggering 21,112 feet above sea level. Visitors to La Paz will be greeted by an energetic city filled with endless parks, towering skyscrapers, and incredible culture. And, at a fraction of the cost of nearby Peru, your wallet will thank you as well.

Though daring visitors can take a day trip to try their luck cycling down the world’s most dangerous road, you don’t have to leave the city — or risk your life — to get a thrill in La Paz. The city’s excellent transportation network includes a number of commuter cable that allows you to take in the stunning vista of the city while whizzing overhead. Just be sure to get in line before rush hour, when lines for the cars can queue up!

And, as long as you are in Bolivia, you’ll definitely want to take a tour of Uyuni’s salt flats! It’s also one of the best things to do in Bolivia.

Pacasmayo, Peru

Nestled on the north-west coast of Peru is the sleepy, rural fishing village of Pacasmayo. Whilst it may not yet have rated a mention on the list of the ‘must-sees’ in Peru, it has a huge amount to offer any traveler who wants to be see something outside of the stereotypical.  

For a fraction of the price you will pay in other South American countries, you get long sandy beaches; fresh fish and seafood to die for; gorgeous weather; welcoming, friendly people; and a vibrant live marketplace.  This, coupled with the fact that accommodation is easy to come by and great cuisine is readily available, make this little slice of heaven a wonderful place to spend some of your time in the region.  Don’t miss this off-the-radar gem if you’re planning a visit to Peru.
-Kerry and Eldon from Expert Traveller 

Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá is hipster gritty, incredibly diverse, and surprisingly cosmopolitan; it’s also increasingly safe, making it almost certain to become one of South America’s most sought-after destinations in the near future. Get here before that happens!

The city is huge – 8 million people over 685 square miles – at an elevation of 8,681 feet (sorry Denver). It offers a massive urban terrain to explore with fantastic street art, beautiful museums, a great restaurant scene, and hopping nightlife. Plus, it’s nestled in the Andes with easy access to hikes that will make you feel far away from all of Bogotá’s bustle.
-Scott from The Line Trek

Uruguay

Hidden between two tourism giants — Buenos Aires and Brazil — lies tiny and relatively unexplored Uruguay. The beach resort of Punta del Este has long beckoned sunseekers, party goers, and top-notch performers (some call it the Ibiza of South America). But, as many travelers are quickly finding out, there is a lot more things to do in Uruguay than just visiting its stunning beaches.

For starters, those staying in Buenos Aires and seeking just a taste of Uruguay can visit the country as part of a day trip via ferry from Buenos Aires to the charming colonial town of Colonia del Sacramento.

But, if you’ve come all that way, you should stay and explore further. The capital city of Montevideo is peaceful and serene, while still offering the amenities you’d expect from other top-notch cities in South America. And if city life isn’t for you, head into the Uruguayan countryside to sample life on a ranch, take a dip in one of the countryside’s many hot springs, or head north to the rugged beach town of Punta del Diablo.

Read Next: 3 Day Iguazu Falls Itinerary

Read Our Other 2018 Lists by Continent

You might also like our other Emerging Destinations lists for 2018: 

• Europe’s 2018 Winners
• North America’s 2018 Winners
• Australia’s 2018 Winners
• Africa’s 2018 Winners
• Asia’s 2018 Winners

So what do you think? Let me know what you think in the comments!