South America is a continent of contrasts, offering travelers a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. From the vibrant rhythms of samba in Brazil to the ancient mysteries of the Inca Empire in Peru, South America promises an adventure like no other. This 60-day itinerary will take you through some of the continent's most iconic cities and breathtaking natural wonders, providing a comprehensive exploration of this diverse region.

Travelers should be aware of the varying climates across South America, from the tropical heat of the Amazon to the cooler temperatures of the Andes. It's important to pack accordingly and stay informed about any travel advisories. With a mix of bustling metropolises, serene landscapes, and historical sites, this itinerary offers a perfect balance for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Known as the "Paris of South America," Buenos Aires is a city that captivates with its European charm and Latin flair. The city is famous for its tango music, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic neighborhoods of San Telmo and La Boca, indulge in world-class cuisine, and experience the passion of a live tango show.

• Best areas to stay: Palermo, Recoleta, San Telmo
• Best places to eat: Don Julio, La Cabrera, El Preferido de Palermo
• Best things to do: Visit the Recoleta Cemetery, explore the colorful streets of La Boca, enjoy a tango show at El Querandí

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Days 1-5: Buenos Aires

Spend your first few days exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. In the mornings, visit iconic sites like the Plaza de Mayo and the Casa Rosada. Afternoons can be spent wandering through the lush parks of Palermo or visiting the MALBA museum. In the evenings, enjoy a traditional Argentine steak dinner followed by a tango show.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Next, head to Rio de Janeiro, a city known for its stunning beaches, lively festivals, and iconic landmarks. From the towering Christ the Redeemer statue to the bustling Copacabana Beach, Rio offers a mix of natural beauty and urban excitement.

• Best areas to stay: Ipanema, Copacabana, Santa Teresa
• Best places to eat: Aprazível, Olympe, Bar Urca
• Best things to do: Visit Sugarloaf Mountain, relax on Ipanema Beach, explore the Tijuca National Park

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Days 6-10: Rio de Janeiro

Start your days with a visit to Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views of the city. Spend afternoons soaking up the sun on Copacabana or Ipanema Beach. In the evenings, enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Lapa or a samba show at Rio Scenarium.

Lima, Peru

Fly to Lima, the capital of Peru, known for its rich history and culinary scene. Lima offers a blend of colonial architecture, modern attractions, and some of the best food in the world. Explore the historic center, visit the Larco Museum, and indulge in Peruvian cuisine at renowned restaurants.

• Best areas to stay: Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro
• Best places to eat: Central, Maido, La Mar
• Best things to do: Explore the historic center, visit the Larco Museum, stroll along the Malecón

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Days 11-15: Lima

Spend your days exploring Lima's historic sites and museums. In the mornings, visit the Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral of Lima. Afternoons can be spent at the Larco Museum or wandering through the bohemian district of Barranco. In the evenings, enjoy a culinary experience at one of Lima's top restaurants.

Cusco and Machu Picchu, Peru

Travel to Cusco, the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Cusco is a city steeped in history, with its Inca and Spanish colonial influences. From Cusco, embark on a journey to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

• Best areas to stay: San Blas, Historic Center, Sacred Valley
• Best places to eat: Cicciolina, Chicha, Limo
• Best things to do: Explore the Sacred Valley, visit Sacsayhuamán, take a train to Machu Picchu

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Days 16-25: Cusco and Machu Picchu

Spend several days acclimating to the altitude in Cusco and exploring the city's historic sites. Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley and visit the Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins. Finally, embark on a journey to Machu Picchu, either by train or on a multi-day trek.

Santiago, Chile

Fly to Santiago, the capital of Chile, nestled between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean. Santiago is a vibrant city with a mix of modern and historic attractions. Explore the city's museums, parks, and markets, and take a day trip to the nearby wine regions.

• Best areas to stay: Lastarria, Bellavista, Providencia
• Best places to eat: Boragó, Bocanáriz, Liguria
• Best things to do: Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, explore Cerro San Cristóbal, take a wine tour in the Maipo Valley

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Days 26-35: Santiago

Explore Santiago's cultural and historical sites, including the Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace. Spend afternoons in the city's parks or visiting the nearby wine regions. In the evenings, enjoy Santiago's vibrant dining scene and nightlife.

Quito, Ecuador

Travel to Quito, the capital of Ecuador, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and stunning Andean backdrop. Quito's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a wealth of cultural and historical attractions.

• 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, visit the Middle of the World monument, take a day trip to the Cotopaxi National Park

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Days 36-45: Quito

Spend your days exploring Quito's historic center and its many churches and museums. Take a day trip to the Middle of the World monument and the nearby Cotopaxi National Park. In the evenings, enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant nightlife in La Mariscal.

Cartagena, Colombia

Fly to Cartagena, a coastal city known for its colorful colonial architecture and Caribbean charm. Cartagena's walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a mix of history, culture, and stunning beaches.

• Best areas to stay: Walled City, Getsemaní, Bocagrande
• Best places to eat: Carmen, La Cevichería, El Boliche Cebichería
• Best things to do: Explore the walled city, visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, relax on Playa Blanca

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Days 46-55: Cartagena

Spend your days exploring Cartagena's historic walled city and its many plazas and churches. Take a day trip to the nearby Rosario Islands for some beach time. In the evenings, enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Getsemaní.

Buenos Aires, Argentina (Return)

Conclude your South American adventure by returning to Buenos Aires for a few final days of exploration and relaxation. Revisit your favorite spots or discover new ones before heading home.

Days 56-60: Buenos Aires

Spend your final days revisiting your favorite neighborhoods and attractions in Buenos Aires. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the parks of Palermo or a final tango show. Reflect on your incredible journey through South America as you prepare to head home.

This 60-day itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of South America's most captivating cities and landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, this journey promises unforgettable experiences and memories to last a lifetime.