The land now known as South America was once inhabited by several ancient cultures, including the Inca, Maya, and Aztec. These civilizations were some of the most advanced in the world at the time, and their legacies can still be seen in many of the region’s ancient ruins.
The arrival of Europeans in the 15th century led to a period of intense colonization and warfare, ultimately resulting in the formation of many new countries on the continent. South America has since been home to many cultures and experiences, from dictatorships to democracies, from economic prosperity to poverty.
But despite its challenges, South America is a continent full of natural beauty and friendly people. And there are few better ways to experience it than by visiting some of its most amazing cities. Here are five that you shouldn’t miss.
Medellin, Colombia
Colombia is a country of many contrasts. The country is of outstanding natural beauty, friendly people, and thriving cities. It’s also one of the most accessible countries to visit on the continent.
Medellin is one of Colombia’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The city is surrounded by mountains and has a temperate climate, making it a great place to escape the heat of the lowland areas. Medellin is also home to several fascinating museums, parks, and colonial buildings.
You should also take different tours to the city’s various locales. For example, you can take a Grafitti tour in Communa 13 and see the artistic side of every individual in the city. It’s also home to various revolutionary street artists worldwide, so you can see their starting works there. You can also choose to visit Pablo Escobar’s former prison, La Catedral, which is now a luxury hotel. Even his house is open for tours if you can get it reserved at the right time.
Quito, Ecuador
The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is one of the highest cities in the world, sitting at an altitude of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet). It’s also one of the oldest cities in South America, having been founded in the 16th century.
Quito is full of colonial-era architecture and plazas. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved colonial centers in Latin America. But Quito is more than just a pretty city; it’s also a great place to experience Ecuadorian culture.
There are several traditional markets selling everything from fresh produce to hand-woven textiles. You can also find some of the best chocolate in the world here, as Ecuador is one of the top producers of cacao beans. And if you’re looking for a challenge, you can try hiking one of the nearby volcanoes, such as Cotopaxi or Chimborazo.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro needs no introduction. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The city is famous for its beaches, Carnival celebrations, and iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.
But Rio is more than just a party city; it’s also a place with a rich history and culture. The city was the capital of Brazil for more than 200 years, and its colonial-era architecture is some of the best in the country. There are also many excellent museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the National History Museum.
And, of course, no visit to Rio would be complete without spending some time on the beach. Copacabana and Ipanema are two of the most famous beaches in the world, but there are dozens of others to choose from.
Cusco, Peru
The ancient Inca capital of Cusco is now a World Heritage Site and one of Peru’s most popular tourist destinations. The city contains Inca ruins, colonial churches, and traditional markets. It’s also the gateway to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
Cusco is a great place to experience Inca culture. The city is full of traditional restaurants and shops selling local handicrafts. Several tour operators can also offer tours of the nearby ruins and archaeological sites.
And if you’re looking for an adventure, you can try your hand at mountain biking or whitewater rafting in the nearby Sacred Valley.
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable South American vacation, add one or more of these five cities to your list. Each has something unique and exciting to offer visitors, from beautiful scenery to lively nightlife. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
