South America is a continent of contrasts, offering a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. From the vibrant cities of Brazil and Argentina to the breathtaking natural wonders of Peru and Chile, this 20-day itinerary is designed for the adventurous traveler seeking to explore the best of what South America has to offer. With a focus on sightseeing, hiking, culinary delights, unique activities, photography, and boating, this journey promises to be both thrilling and memorable.

Travelers should be aware of the diverse climates and terrains across the continent, ranging from the tropical Amazon rainforest to the arid Atacama Desert. It's important to pack accordingly and stay informed about any travel advisories. Additionally, while South America is generally safe for tourists, it's always wise to exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings.

With a budget of 50 out of 100, this itinerary balances affordability with unforgettable experiences, ensuring you get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank. Let's dive into the adventure!

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks, Rio de Janeiro is a must-visit destination in South America. The city is famous for its Carnival festival, the Christ the Redeemer statue, and the lively Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. With a backdrop of lush mountains and a bustling urban scene, Rio offers a perfect blend of nature and city life.

Best areas to stay: Copacabana, Ipanema, Santa Teresa

Best places to eat: Aprazível, Churrascaria Palace, Confeitaria Colombo

Best things to do: Visit Christ the Redeemer, explore Sugarloaf Mountain, relax on Copacabana Beach, take a favela tour

For accommodations, check out VRBO or Hotels.com for the best options.

Days 1-4: Rio de Janeiro

Day 1: Arrive in Rio de Janeiro in the afternoon. Settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely stroll along Copacabana Beach. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian dinner at a local churrascaria.

Day 2: Start your day with a visit to Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Santa Teresa, known for its bohemian vibe and street art. End the day with a sunset view from Sugarloaf Mountain.

Day 3: Spend the morning relaxing on Ipanema Beach. In the afternoon, take a guided favela tour to learn about the local communities. Enjoy dinner at Aprazível, offering stunning views and delicious Brazilian cuisine.

Day 4: Visit the Botanical Garden and the Tijuca National Park for a day of hiking and nature photography. In the evening, experience Rio's nightlife in the Lapa district.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a city that exudes passion and charm. Known for its tango music and dance, European-style architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods, Buenos Aires offers a rich cultural experience. The city is also a paradise for foodies, with its world-renowned steaks and diverse culinary scene.

Best areas to stay: Palermo, Recoleta, San Telmo

Best places to eat: Don Julio, La Cabrera, El Preferido de Palermo

Best things to do: Explore La Boca, visit the Recoleta Cemetery, enjoy a tango show, stroll through Palermo Soho

For accommodations, check out VRBO or Hotels.com for the best options.

Days 5-8: Buenos Aires

Day 5: Fly to Buenos Aires in the morning. Spend the afternoon exploring the colorful streets of La Boca and visiting the Caminito Street Museum. Enjoy dinner at Don Julio, famous for its Argentine steaks.

Day 6: Visit the historic Recoleta Cemetery and the nearby Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. In the evening, attend a tango show at El Querandí for an authentic cultural experience.

Day 7: Spend the day in Palermo, exploring its parks, gardens, and trendy boutiques. Have lunch at El Preferido de Palermo, known for its traditional Argentine dishes. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Palermo Soho.

Day 8: Take a day trip to Tigre Delta for a boating adventure. Explore the waterways and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Return to Buenos Aires for a relaxing evening.

Cusco and Machu Picchu, Peru

Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a city steeped in history and culture. It serves as the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. The region offers breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and a rich cultural heritage.

Best areas to stay: San Blas, Historic Center, Sacred Valley

Best places to eat: Cicciolina, Chicha, Limbus Restobar

Best things to do: Explore the Sacred Valley, visit Sacsayhuamán, hike the Inca Trail, discover Machu Picchu

For accommodations, check out VRBO or Hotels.com for the best options.

Days 9-13: Cusco and Machu Picchu

Day 9: Fly to Cusco in the morning. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing to the altitude and exploring the historic center. Visit the Plaza de Armas and the Cusco Cathedral. Enjoy dinner at Cicciolina, offering a fusion of Andean and international cuisine.

Day 10: Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley, visiting Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Explore the ancient Inca ruins and enjoy the stunning landscapes. Return to Cusco for a relaxing evening.

Day 11: Begin your journey to Machu Picchu. You can choose to hike the Inca Trail or take the train to Aguas Calientes. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes.

Day 12: Visit Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic sites in the world. Spend the day exploring the ancient ruins and capturing stunning photographs. Return to Cusco in the evening.

Day 13: Spend the day exploring more of Cusco's attractions, such as Sacsayhuamán and the San Blas neighborhood. Enjoy dinner at Limbus Restobar, offering panoramic views of the city.

Santiago and Valparaíso, Chile

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a vibrant city surrounded by the Andes Mountains. It offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with a thriving arts scene, delicious cuisine, and beautiful parks. Nearby Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its colorful hillside homes and bohemian atmosphere.

Best areas to stay: Bellavista, Lastarria, Providencia

Best places to eat: Bocanáriz, Galindo, Peumayén Ancestral Food

Best things to do: Visit Cerro San Cristóbal, explore the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, take a day trip to Valparaíso, enjoy Chilean wine tasting

For accommodations, check out VRBO or Hotels.com for the best options.

Days 14-17: Santiago and Valparaíso

Day 14: Fly to Santiago in the morning. Spend the afternoon exploring the Bellavista neighborhood, known for its street art and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at Bocanáriz, a wine bar offering a wide selection of Chilean wines.

Day 15: Visit Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and the Lastarria neighborhood. Enjoy dinner at Galindo, known for its traditional Chilean dishes.

Day 16: Take a day trip to Valparaíso, exploring its colorful streets and artistic vibe. Visit the Pablo Neruda Museum and enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Return to Santiago in the evening.

Day 17: Spend the day visiting nearby vineyards for a wine-tasting tour. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and learn about Chilean wine production. Return to Santiago for a relaxing evening.

Quito and the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a city rich in history and culture, with a beautifully preserved colonial center. It serves as the gateway to the Galápagos Islands, a unique archipelago known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The islands offer unparalleled opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Best areas to stay: Historic Center, La Mariscal, La Floresta

Best places to eat: Zazu, Urko, Casa Gangotena

Best things to do: Explore the historic center of Quito, visit the Middle of the World Monument, discover the Galápagos Islands, enjoy snorkeling and wildlife photography

For accommodations, check out VRBO or Hotels.com for the best options.

Days 18-20: Quito and the Galápagos Islands

Day 18: Fly to Quito in the morning. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Plaza Grande and the Basilica del Voto Nacional. Enjoy dinner at Zazu, offering a modern take on Ecuadorian cuisine.

Day 19: Visit the Middle of the World Monument and the Intiñan Museum. In the afternoon, fly to the Galápagos Islands. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the next day's adventure.

Day 20: Explore the Galápagos Islands, known for their unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. Enjoy snorkeling, wildlife photography, and hiking. In the afternoon, fly back to Quito for your departure.

This 20-day adventure through South America offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and unique experiences. From the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the breathtaking landscapes of the Galápagos Islands, this journey promises to be unforgettable. Safe travels!