South America is a
diverse and evolving region, especially when it comes to tourism. Whether
globetrotters seek inspiration from ancient civilizations and unique cultural
traditions, exciting experiences among the unspoiled wilderness or big-city
sophistication in the many urban centers, South America offers lots of
interesting opportunities for unforgettable vacations.
For 2026, the
nations of South America continue to up the ante, with a variety of new hotels
as well as important infrastructure improvements, increasing recognition for
the vast culinary scene and new ways to engage in local culture and explore
natural wonders. In addition, travelers can find a variety of festivals and
other events around South America.
Here are a few of
the best ways to experience South America in 2026.
Best
Destinations in South America
Brazil: From legendary beaches to the far reaches
of the Amazon, Brazil never fails to impress with its vast tourism offerings.
Embratur, the nation’s tourism organization, reported record-breaking tourism
arrivals for 2025, and recently launched a new “sun and beach” module as part
of its Brasil Travel Specialist program. The recent announcement
by Four Seasons to develop a new hotel in Rio de Janeiro’s Leblon
district by 2029 is further evidence of that city’s continued status as
paradise for jet setters, while other new hotel projects include the 2026
openings of the Motto by Hilton Recife Antigo and Sofitel Rio de
Janeiro Ipanema as well as the 2027 opening of Anantara Prea Ceara
Resort on Brazil’s northeastern coast.
Argentina: From the tango-filled streets of Buenos
Aires to Patagonia’s’ natural splendor, from skiing in the Andes to sipping
Malbec in Mendoza, Argentina has lots of offer. Airport expansion in Bariloche
will improve the arrival and departure experience in that popular tourist
destination, and new hotels around Argentina include Casa Lucía – The
Meliá Collection in Buenos Aires and Radisson Blu Bariloche, both of
which opened in 2025, and Casa Duhau, part of The Unbound Collection by
Hyatt, which will open in 2027. Explora’s newest Patagonian lodge, Explora
El Calafete, provides a fresh option for travelers headed to that popular
region.
Four Seasons Hotel Rio de Janeiro at Leblon in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo Credit: Four Seasons)
Peru: One of South America’s most iconic
destinations, Peru is home to the stunning Machu Picchu archeological sites and
the historic city of Cuzco, as well as a vibrant culinary scene that has gained
worldwide fame. From the mysterious Nazca lines to the big-city pleasures of
Lima, Peru fascinates on multiple levels. The new terminal at Lima’s Jorge
Chavez International Airport now provides an upgraded experience in the
nation’s primary international gateway, and new hotels include the InterContinental
Real Lima Miraflores, Hotel Indigo Lima Miraflores and The Meliá
Collection Lima, as well as Hotel Cusco La Paccha, Affiliated by Melia.
Also new is Inkaterra Cabo Blanco, the newest eco-luxury hotel on Peru’s
Pacific coast, which is billed as the world’s first carbon-neutral beach
destination.
Chile: A land of fascinating contrasts, Chile
spans regions from the dramatic Atacama Desert in the north to the glacial
fields of Patagonia in the south, with lots to explore in between. The nation’s
blend of outdoor activities, beautiful wineries, excellent accommodations and
adventure travel options — not to mention the allure of Easter Island — make
Chile an irresistible choice for many travelers. A terminal expansion at
Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benitez Airport has increased operational capacity,
and new accommodations include Tru by Hilton Chillan Ferrat, Debaines
Hotel Santiago (a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World) and The
Cormorant at 55 South, as well as the reopening of Tierra Atacama.
Ecuador: This South American nation’s relatively
compact size makes it easy to explore dramatically different geographies and
cultures in one trip — including the Amazonian rainforest the central
highlands, the warm coastal region and the world-famous Galapagos Islands. It’s
an ideal choice for nature lovers as well as those who yearn to experience
indigenous cultures and explore historic cities like UNESCO-recognized city of
Quito. New hotels include the Courtyard by Marriott Quito Airport, which
opened in 2025, and the InterContinental Guayaquil, which is slated to debut in
2027.
Colombia: In Colombia, travelers can choose
from widely different experiences that satisfy various traveler types
— whether it’s wandering the beautiful colonial streets of Cartagena,
exploring a magnificent subterranean “salt cathedral” near Bogota or enjoying
the welcoming climes of Medellin, the so-called “city of eternal spring.” The
nation offers an enticing combination of urban excitement and nature-based
adventures. New hotels in Colombia include Casa Carolina, Four
Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena, Aria Bogota and York
Medellin, Curio Collection by Hilton.
York Medellin Curio Collection by Hilton in Antioquia, Colombia. (Photo Credit: Hilton)
Best
Attractions in South America
Machu
Picchu: Situated
dramatically in the Peruvian Andes above the Urubamba River valley, Machu
Picchu is a 15th-century Incan city and one of the world’s most recognized
archeological sites; it’s also one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Visitors
arrive by train or via a hiking trail, and experienced guides ensure that
travelers get a greater understanding of the site’s many features, including
temples, plazas and stone terraces. Abercrombie & Kent and Belmond are
among the suppliers that offer upscale itineraries — and Blue Parallel is
launching new private jet tours in 2026, including a 21-day itinerary that
includes stops at Machu Picchu, the
Galapagos, Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, the Brazilian Amazon and Cartagena.
Iguazu
Falls: Overlapping
the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is home to some 275
cascades that plunge dramatically over the lush cliffs Visitors can explore via
trails, catwalks, boat rides and even helicopter. Hotel das Cataratas, a
Belmond Hotel, offers some of the most sumptuous accommodations near the falls,
with experiences including guided sunrise walks at the falls and an
astronomer-led after-dark presentation. This year, Blue Parallel has
debuted a 12-day Wild Kingdoms of Brazil private jet tour that includes stops
at Iguazu Falls, the Pantanal, the Amazon and Fernando de Noronha.
Christ the
Redeemer: It would be
hard to picture Rio de Janeiro without the 98-foot tall Christ the Redeemer as
part of its skyline. The Corcovado cog train is the most scenic way to arrive
at the summit for a close-up view of this massive structure, which was built
between 1922 and 1931. Local operators including Rio de Janeiro by
Cariocas offer guided tours that include a visit to the nearby Tijuca
Forest.
Galapagos
Islands: One of
Ecuador’s most renowned attractions, the Galapagos are are so
remarkable they inspired Charles Darwin to study and document its flora and
fauna. Visitors can get up close to species found nowhere else, including giant
tortoises, marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies. Small-ship cruises are an
ideal way to see a variety of islands and marine life. Celebrity Cruises, Nature
Galapagos & Ecuador and Ecoventura are among the cruise
operators, while Ecuador and Galapagos Insiders packages both cruises
and hotel stays.
Historic Center
of Quito: Downtown
Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with gorgeous historic buildings,
including Spanish baroque churches, ornate government buildings and residences.
Set at an elevation of nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, Quito is a
dramatically beautiful and easy-to-explore place that is one of the continent’s
true historic treasures. Casa Gangotena, a member of Relais &
Chateaux, is among the neighborhood’s most luxurious hotel options.
Torres del
Paine National Park: Located
in the southern part of Chile’s Patagonia region, Torres del Paine is home to
natural features including vast pampas, green-blue lakes, massive glaciers and
granite peaks. Wildlife — including condors and guanaco lamas — are also
commonly spotted by visitors. Jacada offers guided tours that focus
on hiking, wildlife and photography. This year, Blue Parallel has
debuted a new, 11-day Natural Wonders of Chile & Argentina
private jet tour that includes Torres del Paine, the Atacama Desert, Perito
Moreno Glacier and Iguazu Falls. In addition, Timbuktu Travel has started booking
stays at the Explora Torres del Paine Conservation Reserve, a 10-room
lodge that is scheduled to open for the 2026/27 season.
Machu Picchu, Peru. (Photo Credit: Promperu/Alex Bryce)
Must-See 2026
Events in South America
Rio de Janeiro
Carnival: As most
legendary pre-Lenten festival on the planet, Carnival in Rio dazzles
with its samba rhythms, colorful costumes, street parties and Sambadrome
parades where samba schools show their best. Visitors can also feel the festive
vibe on the beach and in neighborhoods that host free street carnivals called
blocos. Dates change every year; the next scheduled carnival is February 13-21,
2026. Intrepid Travel is
among the suppliers that offer Rio Carnival packages.
Barranquilla
Carnival: Rio’s event may
be the most famous, but Carnival in this Colombian coastal city is another
must-attend for many revelers. Slated next for February 14-17, 2026, it
includes parades, parties and lots of people dancing to cumbia and salsa music
in spectacular costumes. Impulse Travel sells packages that include
tickets and guides.
Inti
Raymi: This cultural
event, which takes place in the Peruvian city of Cusco, is a festival of the
sun that dates to the days of the Incan empire, with groups gathering in
traditional costumes for music, dance and processions that honor Inti, the sun
god and winter solstice. The next event is June 24, 2026. Belmond offers
two-night packages.
Fiesta de la
Patria Gaucha: Slated
next for March 7-15, 2026, this Uruguayan celebration pays tribute to the
gaucho, the horseman who represents rural culture in this part of South
America. Rodeos, traditional music and dance, handmade crafts and equestrian
parades are all part of the event.
Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Ekaterina Belova)
Best Places for
Family Travel in South America
Galápagos
Islands: Adults kids
of all ages can appreciate the thrill of seeing rare wildlife and marine life
up close. The region’s safe waters, inviting beaches and well-organized tours
take the hassle out of planning both land- and sea-based visits. For
2026, Butterfield & Robinson has introduced new, customizable
Multi-Gen Legacy Trips to the Galapagos (as well as Colombia and Uruguay), with
cultural experiences and other family-friendly activities included.
Buenos
Aires: Argentina’s
capital offers big-city excitement for all ages. Whether it’s learning to
tango, exploring the Museo de los Niños (Museum of Children) or learning about
history at the Casa Rosada and Recoleta Cemetery, Buenos Aires offers lots of
possibilities for educational and fun diversions. Collette is
among the major tour operators that offers multigenerational itineraries that
visit Buenos Aires and Jacada offers upscale Argentina family tours
that include time in Buenos Aires.
Iguazú
Falls: This dramatic
region along the Brazil/Argentina border offers exciting chances to view one of
the world’s most stunning group of waterfalls, and kids and adults alike can
also view wildlife such as butterflies and coatis and join educational tours
that are designed for all ages. Kensington offers
customizable tours to the region.
Cartagena: Kids can have fun exploring the historic
streets of Cartagena’s walled city as well as the tunnels of the Castillo de
San Felipe fort. Boat rides to the nearby Rosario Islands provide still more
fun in the Caribbean sun for families, with day trips easy to arrange to places
like Isla Grande, which has lovely beaches.
Patagonia: Both the Chilean and Argentinian sides of
Patagonia provide lots of activities and excitement for families, with sites
like Torres del Paine National Park offering hikes that are ideal for older
kids and interesting opportunities for wildlife spotting. Boat tours depart
from El Calafate, on the Argentinian side, to the Perito Moreno Glacier, where
families can get an up-close look at the massive glacier. Quasar offers
“family safaris” in this region.
Woman photographing a marine iguana in the Galapagos, Ecuador. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Maridav)
Best Places for
Couples and Romance Travel in South America
Buenos
Aires: Grand
boulevards, beautiful architecture and intimate restaurants, cafes and boutique
hotels are among the reasons why Argentina’s capital ranks high with couples
seeking a memorable getaway. Add some Argentinian wine and perhaps a tango
class, and it’s easy to create a romantic vacation here. The Palacio Duhau
– Park Hyatt Buenos Aires offers romantic accommodation options, with
suites that have balconies overlooking gardens.
Mendoza: Argentina’s wine country is another great
place to kindle romance. Consider a stay at a boutique property like Entre
Cielos Wine & Wellness Hotel or Casa de Uco Vineyards & Wine
Resort, both of which offer upscale accommodations and easy access to
activities including wine tasting horseback riding and even hot air balloon
rides.
Cartagena: The charming streets of the historic walled
city are especially inviting for couples to stroll and stop for romantic
dinners at gourmet restaurants. Dancing to salsa music, visiting local
artisanal markets and staying at lovely hotels like the Sofitel Legend
Santa Clara Cartagena are just a few of the possibilities. Kuoda
Tours offers honeymoon packages and itineraries designed just for couples
that include visits to Cartagena, Bogota, Santa Marta and Tayrona.
Rio de Janeiro: This legendary Brazilian city still
exudes the hip vibe that first attracted jetsetters here decades ago. Couples
can spend their days relaxing on the beaches or admiring the view from the top
of Sugar Loaf Mountain, and evenings savoring gourmet cuisine, cocktails and
stays at stylish hotels like Fasano Rio de Janeiro, which has an excellent
rooftop pool and a widely praised restaurant, and Emiliano Rio, which has
well-designed suites that are perfect for couples.
The Atacama
Desert: To the
uninformed, Chile’s otherworldly Atacama Desert may not seem to be an obvious
choice for romance travel. But those who’ve been realize that this region is
home to spectacularly trend-setting hotels that are ideal for couples. Awasi
Atacama, for example, is a member of Relais & Chateaux; its restaurant
serves a menu based on Andean ingredients. The hotel’s private excursions —
which include horseback riding, viewing flamingos at the Chaxa lagoon and
witnessing sunrise at the Licancabur volcano — ensure that couples will have
lots of unspoiled time together.
Cartagena, Colombia. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/sonjanovak)
Best Places for
Group Travel in South America
Argentina’s
Pampas: These picturesque
grasslands near Buenos Aires offer memorable activities for groups — namely,
gaucho experiences that connect visitors with local traditions like horseback
riding, asados (barbecues) and cultural shows. Accommodation options include traditional
estancias, the region’s typical hacienda. At Estancia La Sofia, guests can
even take polo and cooking lessons, while Estancia La Bamba de Areco, a
member of Relais & Chateaux, offers excursions by horseback, mountain bike
and carriage, with polo matches and other activities also taking place.
The Amazon: Groups can immerse themselves in the
fascinating nature and traditions of the Amazon region in Brazil, Peru and
Ecuador — which means there are lots of options for crafting a memorable group
itinerary. Among the newest vessels for exploring is the &Beyond
Amazon Explorer, a 15-suite river yacht designed for comfort and easy access to
the wonders of the Peruvian Amazon. Land-based accommodations in Peru
include Mashpi Lodge, which offers birdwatching and rides aboard its
canopy gondola and sky bikes — while in Ecuador, Sacha Lodge, guests learn
about preservation efforts and can view the jungle canopy from a 150-foot
exploration crane.
Patagonia: Both Argentina and Chile offer exciting,
multi-day group trip possibilities in Patagonia, with activities that can
include hiking, horseback riding, glacier boat trips and camping. Jacada offers
bespoke tours that can also include a cruise around Cape Horn and luxury
accommodations.
Florianopolis: Groups looking for a sun-filled beach
getaway should consider this destination in southern Brazil, a region graced
with multiple beaches and group-friendly beach hotels. Surfing and surf lessons
are in demand here, and boat tours to outlying islands provide still more
options for enjoying the warm weather. South America Travel offers a
tour (an extension that can be combined with other itineraries) that includes
white water kayaking and other activities.
Cusco and the
Sacred Valley: The
historic Peruvian city of Cusco is a gateway to history, culture and adventure
— and it’s a wonderful base for groups interested in exploring. Guided visits
to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley ruins are easily arranged, as are hikes
to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake. Groups can choose from accommodations
that range from historic boutique hotels to upscale name-brand properties like
the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco.
Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Peru. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/sharptoyou)
Best Places for
Solo Travel in South America
Bogota: The Colombian capital is home to a
beautiful and easily walkable historic center, as well as an impressive array
of cultural attractions, including the Gold Museum, which has one of the
world’s largest collections of gold artifacts, the Botero Museum, which
displays works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero as well as other masters,
and the National Museum of Colombia, which features an extensive art
collection. Solo travelers can easily meet others by joining outings like the
fascinating (and free) politics and graffiti walking tour offered by Capital
Graffiti Tours.
Medellin: The so-called “city of eternal spring”
offers year-round pleasant weather and a welcoming, relaxed vibe that attracts
lots of expats and globetrotters. The Museum of Antioquia and Plaza Botero are
cultural hubs that offer opportunities to view work by Botero and other
artists, and side trips to the colorful town of Guatape are one of the most
popular activities as well. It’s especially easy to socialize and meet others
in the neighborhood called Poblado and during guided street art tours of the
neighborhood called Comuna 13.
Buenos
Aires: This
multifaceted metropolis is rewarding for solo travelers seeking a combination
of fascinating culture, great food and vibrant nightlife. Neighborhoods
including Palermo and Recoleta are especially good fits for this segment,
thanks to their walkability. Solo globetrotters can meet others during city
tours and activities like cooking classes, wine tasting and tango
lessons. Flash Pack offers multi-day group tour itineraries in
Argentina that are designed for solo travelers (the company also operates in
Ecuador, Bolivia and Peru).
Cuzco and the
Inca Trail: G Adventures lists
this region of Peru as ideal for solo travelers; its seven-day itinerary, which
includes a four-day Inca Trail trek, is crafted to be solo-friendly and to
foster conversation. Even travelers who prefer not to join a group will find a
lots to love in Cuzco, with activities including walking tours and day trips
among the options, and accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hostels to
luxury hotels.
Uruguay: This South American nation’s compact size
makes it especially easy to navigate, and it’s also one of the continent’s
safest countries. The capital city, Montevideo, is graced with historic
neighborhoods, interesting architecture and museums, while the legendary
coastal town of Punta del Este offers beach-based activities and countryside
estancias are fun to visit for horseback riding. Intrepid offers a
variety of itineraries in Uruguay for 2026.
Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/FabianSchmiedlechner)
Best Places for
Foodie Travel in South America
Peru: In recent years, Peruvian cuisine has
gained fame on a global scale. UNESCO has even recognized it as an Intangible
Cultural Heritage. It’s no wonder that foodies flock to this South American
hotspot to sample a variety of dishes. Belmond offers an eight-night
“food adventure” that includes visits to a local market in Lima, followed by a
trip to Cuzco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, with both gourmet and
traditional dishes every step of the way. In October, Peru Mucho Gusto
Lima — the nation’s leading food festival — will bring a variety of
culinary activities to the nation’s capital.
Argentina: The parrillas (steakhouses) of Argentina
are legendary, but delicious beef is just one aspect of this nation’s rich
culinary traditions. A company called Parrillo Tours offers guided
outings in Buenos Aires in various neighborhoods, with opportunities to try
empanadas, steak and other local favorites. Context Travel offers a
tour that includes a stop at a market in San Telmo, while in the wine region of
Mendoza, Secret Food Tours offers outings that also include tastes of
local varietals.
Chile: In Santiago and Chile’s central valley,
travelers can experience wine, seafood and farm-to-table specialties. Collette’s 10-day
Essential South America itinerary include visits to Chilean wineries and a
market, as well as a cooking demonstration. Insight Vacations offers
similar experiences as part of its 12-day Heart of Patagonia itinerary.
Ecuador: Every region of Ecuador has its own
culinary traditions, so travelers can easily experience a mouthwatering array
of culinary offerings in one trip — from the ceviche and seafood specialties of
the coast to Andean favorites like locro de papa (potato and cheese soup) and
Amazonian fish wrapped in leaves and grilled. Rebecca Adventure Travel offers
a nine-day Ecuador Food Tour that includes meals in Quito and in the
countryside, as well as a cooking class and a visit to an Ecuadorian winery.
Colombia: The world is becoming increasingly aware of
Colombia’s culinary scene — especially in Bogota, where in 2025 El Chato was
recently named the best restaurant in Latin America by The World’s 50 Best
Restaurants. Corn, potatoes, fruit and rice are among the basics of Colombia’s
rich gastronomic traditions, and even the hot dog has taken on an iconic role
in the local food scene. La Mesa’s gastronomy tours in Medellin,
Cartagena and Bogota provide an introduction.
Lima, Peru (Photo Credit: Boris Stroujko/Adobe Stock)
Best Places for
Adventure Travel in South America
Patagonia: This naturally beautiful region of Chile
and Argentina offers adventure in the form of expeditions that can involve a
number of exciting activities. National parks including Torres del Paine and
Los Glaciares are ideal for outings like the four- to five-day W Trek through
three glacial valleys and the seven- to nine-day O Circuit, which visits even
more remote areas. Hiking, rafting and kayaking are also popular in this
region. Swoop Patagonia and Patagonia Hero are
among the local tour operators that operate these itineraries.
Machu Picchu
and the Peruvian Andes: This
breathtakingly beautiful region of Peru provides lots of unique adventures,
including multi-day hikes, cycling and rafting. Andes Peru Tour &
Adventure, for example, offers itineraries for a variety of experience levels —
from an easy, two-day Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour to the moderate,
four-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu and one-day Rainbow Mountain
hike. Visit South America offers private, small-group and bespoke
itineraries that can include multi-day treks and accommodations at Humantay
Lake.
Galapagos
Islands: Ecuador’s
most legendary archipelago is appropriate for all kinds of visitors, but more
adventurous types may want to focus on activities like snorkeling and scuba
diving, which provide interesting opportunities to view sea turtles, sea lions
and sharks in the protected waters that surround the islands. Agressor
Adventures operates dive charters with multiple dive locations, and PADI lists
multiple options for dive resorts and liveaboards.
Ecuadorean
Andes: The soaring
Andres are the setting for a variety of adventure activities in Ecuador,
especially around the “avenue of the volcanoes,” where the geography is
especially dramatic. Adventure Life offers a nine-day Ecuador
Adventure itinerary that including biking the slopes of the Pichincha volcano,
zip lining over the forest canopy, hiking through the cloud forest and
horseback riding near the Cotopaxi volcano.
Colombia: Adventure-seekers can find action on
Colombia’s coast as well as in its interior. G Adventures offers a
seven-day trek from Santa Marta to the “lost city” at Teyuna, with small groups
that take on the challenging hikes and cycling, and experts on hand to explain
the history of this fascinating abandoned community. The company also offers
itineraries with an “average” challenge rating, including hikes to waterfalls
at Tayrona National Park on the coast.
Torres del Paine National Park in Chile’s Patagonia region. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Alexandr)
Best Places for
Sports Enthusiasts in South America
Rosario/Santa
Fe, Argentina: The
2026 South American Games (Juegos Suramericanos), slated for
September 12-26, 20026, will witness the arrival of athletes from across Latin
America and the Caribbean to compete in more than 50 sports, including
basketball, rugby, swimming and field hockey. It’s a lively event for fans who
appreciate diverse sporting action.
Buenos Aires,
Argentina and Punta del Este, Uruguay: Polo is big in this part of South America, and the Triple
Crown of Polo — which includes the Hurlingham Open, Tortugas Open and
iconic Palermo Open — presents an excellent opportunity to witness the
excitement. From spring through early summer (which in this region is from
October through December), these events attract the best players. Stirling
Polo manages a number of important tournaments — and companies like Argentina
Polo Holidays offer polo lessons for those looking to learn the sport or
sharpen their skills.
Argentina,
Uruguay and Brazil: The 2026
FIFA World Cup only takes place in North America, but the passion for
soccer is always high in South America — especially in Argentina and
Brazil. Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Rio de Janeiro are especially good places
to connect with football culture. Homefans offers multi-day tour
itineraries that can include multiple cities, with stadium tours and local
guides to provide expert insight.
Santiago and
Valparaíso, Chile: Rugby
and cycling events generate a lot of excitement in these two Chilean cities,
with competitions year-round. Chile will host the World Rugby U20
Challenger Cup on June 29-July 19, 2026. For those looking to tour Chile
son two wheels, Anthem Tours offers a variety of cycling tours in
2026 and Sports Travel Chile specializes in sporting activities,
including mountain biking.
Santiago, Chile. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Fyle)
Best Places for
LGBTQ+ Travelers in South America
São
Paulo: It’s not
surprising that the city that hosts the world’s largest LGBTQ+ pride
celebration ranks high on the list of great places for queer travelers. São
Paulo Pride takes place on June 7, 2026, attracting millions of
participants from around the world for the main event as well as an array of
parties, cultural presentations and other activities. This massive city is
welcoming for LGBTQ+ travelers year-round, too. Marriott Bonvoy offers
private LGBTQ+ city tours throughout the year.
Bogota: Colombia’s progressive capital stands out
on the queer travel map: it’s home to the largest permanent LGBTQ+ nightclub in
the western hemisphere (and perhaps the world). Theatron is a
multi-level complex with more than a dozen different venues, each with its own
music and ambiance — including two rooftops and even a food court. The club
dominates the city’s queer nightlife neighborhood, Chapinero, but there are
many other bars and dance clubs, too. Even travelers who aren’t interested in
nightlife will find lots to love in Bogota. The city’s pride celebration takes
place in June, and a gay-owned tour operator called Out in Colombia offers
a variety of one-day and multi-day experiences throughout the year,
including walking tours, day trips and private, chef-led dinners with
members of the local LGBTQ+ community.
Buenos
Aires: Argentina made
history when it became South America’s first nation to legalize same-sex
marriage in 2010, and the capital city of Buenos Aires is an ideal place to
enjoy that accepting vibe. Pride takes place on November 7, 2026, and
visitors can immerse themselves in tango culture at multiple queer tango
venues, classes and events, including Tango Queer Buenos Aires, which
takes an open-minded approach to dance roles. Detours offers
a 10-day LGBTQ+ tour of Argentina and Brazil with multiple departures in 2026.
Montevideo and
Uruguay’s Coast: Uruguay
is yet another country that’s known for its progressive and welcoming attitude,
and it . The city of Montevideo is home to a thriving nightlife scene, as well
as pride celebration that takes place in September. The glamorous
beach resort city of Punta del Este, meanwhile, attracts LGBTQ+ sun-lovers
during the summer months (between October and March).
Sao Paolo, Brazil. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Sync Produções)
Unique to South
America
Machu
Picchu: This
15th-century Inca citadel is a must-see in the Andes. The planning and
engineering behind the stonework and ceremonial architecture is truly amazing,
and the dramatic, mountainous setting makes it even more so. Guided tours are
the best way to understand this complex and fascinating site. In 2026, smart
travelers can pair a visit to Machu Picchu with the Inti Raymi (Festival of the
Sun), which takes place on June 24 in nearby Cusco. The construction of a new
airport serving Cusco will likely help improve access to Machu Picchu. Tour
operators including Jacada, Kuoda and Belmond offer
itineraries.
Nazca
Lines: Peru’s Nazca
Lines are simultaneously impressive and mysterious. No one knows exactly
who created these enormous geoglyphs in the desert, or why. In 2025, Peru’s
government canceled plans to reduce the size of the protected area, which is
good news for assuring the future of this site. Flying over the lines is the
best way to appreciate their size; tour operators including Jacada and Exodus
Adventure Travels offer multi-day Peru tours that include flyovers.
Easter Island
(Rapa Nui): It takes
more than five hours to fly from mainland Chile to Easter Island, but it’s well
worth the trip. This volcanic island is world-famous for its moai statues and
ceremonial areas that provide a fascinating glimpse of ancient cultural
traditions. The island also offers present-day opportunities for cultural
connection: Tapati Rapa Nui, the destination’s most important cultural
festival, takes place in the first two weeks of February, with live dance and
music as well as storytelling and competitions. Explora Rapa Nui is
an excellent accommodation choice; the property offers a variety of small-group
guided excursions, year round.
Traditional straw boat on Lake Titicaca, Peru. (Photo Credit: Promperu/Karina Mendoza)
Tiwanaku: Bolivia’s Tiwanaku, a pre-Columbian
archeological site near Lake Titicaca, is characterized by dramatic stone
temples, gateways and fascinating iconography that pre-dates the growth of the
Inca empire. Willkakuti, also known as the Aymara New Year, is an especially
good time to visit; slated for June 21, 2026, it’s a celebration that
celebrates the winter solstice. Kensington offers
bespoke tours of Bolivia that can take in the archeological site as well as the
event.
Ciudad
Perdida/Teyuna: Colombia’s lost
city, the Ciudad Perdida (Teyuna) was built sometime around 600-800 CE and is
tucked into the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a mountainous area near the
Caribbean coast. This is a destination only for the adventurous; it requires a
multi-day trek with hiking, river crossings and stays in remote camps. But the
reward for this commitment is big: to view the stone terraces and stairways of
a civilization that most people have never seen. G Adventures offers
an itinerary with stops at multiple camps.
Serra da
Capivara: Nature and
history lovers alike will be wowed by Brazil’s Serra da Capivara National Park,
a spectacular destination for viewing rock art that dates back as much as
25,000 years. The UNESCO-recognized landscape of canyons and shelters is home
to prehistoric paintings and engravings. The nearby Museum of the American Man
and the Museum of Nature provide insight about the ancient art on
exhibit. Amazon Adventures and Eco Adventure Tours are
among the companies that offer guided visits.
Sunrise with the 15 on Easter Island (Photo Credit: lblinova/Adobe Stock)
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