In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the most underrated tourist spots in South America—places that have fewer tourists but offer unforgettable experiences. These are the kind of destinations you’ll want to visit before everyone else figures out how amazing they are!
Pucón, Chile – The Adventure Capital You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
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When I first arrived in Pucón, I was immediately struck by the town’s charm. It felt like stepping into an outdoor adventure magazine—but without the overhyped crowds. Tucked away in Chile’s Lake District, this place has it all: volcanoes, lakes, forests, and more adventure activities than I had time to try.
The most exciting thing I did? Climbing Volcán Villarrica, an active volcano! We started the trek early in the morning, and after a tough (but rewarding) hike, standing on the edge of the crater, I felt like I was on top of the world. You can actually peer down into the smoking crater—it’s surreal. After that, the town offered so much more: kayaking on Lake Villarrica, hiking through nearby national parks, and soaking in natural hot springs to recover from all the action.
Why it’s underrated: Tourists often head straight to Patagonia, missing out on Pucón’s adventure-packed charm. Plus, it’s got a laid-back vibe that bigger spots like Patagonia can’t offer.
Best time to visit: Head here between December and March for summer fun, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.
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Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay – A Peaceful Colonial Escape
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Imagine wandering down cobbled streets lined with colorful houses, hearing nothing but the faint clink of dishes from a nearby café and the breeze off the Río de la Plata. That’s what you get in Colonia del Sacramento, a charming town just an hour’s ferry ride from Buenos Aires.
The first time I visited, I was struck by how different it felt from anywhere else I’d been in South America. It’s like a beautiful, slow-motion version of history, with old colonial architecture and a dreamy riverside setting. I spent hours exploring the Barrio Histórico, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stopping at little cafés and taking in the sunset from the historic Colonia Lighthouse. It’s a place where time seems to slow down—exactly the break I needed after the hustle of Buenos Aires.
Why it’s underrated: Most people skip Uruguay altogether, or they head straight for Punta del Este’s beaches. But Colonia is a perfect little time capsule that deserves way more attention.
Best time to visit: Go during spring or autumn (March to May, or September to November), when the weather is mild, and the crowds are few.
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Cuenca, Ecuador – A Colonial Beauty in the Andes
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When I arrived in Cuenca, it immediately felt like I had stepped into another era. The cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and the three blue domes of Catedral Nueva towering over the city—it was like I had found Ecuador’s hidden gem.
I wandered through bustling markets where locals sold brightly woven textiles, ate some of the freshest ceviche I’ve ever tasted, and spent time in the nearby Cajas National Park, which offers some of the best hiking I’ve done anywhere.
But here’s the real charm: Cuenca doesn’t feel overwhelmed by tourists. There’s a palpable sense of community, with locals welcoming you into their way of life, and you can explore at your own pace. It’s the perfect blend of history and nature, all without the crowds of Quito or the Galápagos.
Why it’s underrated: Everyone rushes to Ecuador’s capital or the Galápagos, missing out on Cuenca’s authentic charm. It’s the kind of place that slowly seeps into your soul.
Best time to visit: With its year-round spring weather, there’s no bad time to visit, but June to September offers the driest days, perfect for hiking.
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The Tatacoa Desert, Colombia – A Martian Landscape on Earth
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Colombia’s Tatacoa Desert is one of the most surreal landscapes I’ve ever experienced. Unlike the dry, sandy deserts you might expect, Tatacoa is a maze of eroded red and gray rock formations, creating a landscape that looks more like Mars than Earth. Despite its beauty, it remains relatively unknown compared to Colombia’s other natural attractions.
I spent a night camping under the stars here, and it was one of the clearest night skies I’ve ever seen—perfect for stargazing. During the day, I explored the labyrinthine rock formations, hiked to Los Hoyos, a natural swimming hole surrounded by gray desert cliffs, and even visited the Tatacoa Observatory to learn about the constellations visible in the Southern Hemisphere.
Why it’s underrated: Most tourists head to Colombia’s famous cities or beaches, but the Tatacoa Desert offers a unique off-the-beaten-path destination with its striking landscape and incredible stargazing opportunities.
Best time to visit: The dry season (June to August) is ideal for clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it the best time for stargazing and hiking.
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Jericoacoara, Brazil – A Remote Beach Paradise
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If you’re looking for a beach that feels like paradise but without the crowds, Jericoacoara is the place to go. Located on Brazil’s northern coast, this tiny village is tucked between towering sand dunes and has some of the most stunning, unspoiled beaches I’ve ever seen. The vibe here is relaxed—there are no paved roads, and the best way to get around is by dune buggy or on foot.
I spent my days kite surfing on the turquoise waters and hiking up Pedra Furada, a famous rock arch that overlooks the ocean. In the evenings, the entire village would gather on top of the dunes to watch the sunset—a simple but magical ritual that happens every night.
Why it’s underrated: Jericoacoara is relatively hard to reach, with the last leg of the journey being an off-road drive through the dunes. This keeps mass tourism at bay, preserving its hidden paradise vibe.
Best time to visit: From July to November, the wind conditions are ideal for kite surfing, and the weather is warm and dry, perfect for beachgoers.
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Salta, Argentina – A Gateway to the Andean Highlands
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In the far north of Argentina I've found Salta, the perfect base for exploring the country’s breathtaking Andean highlands. Known for its colonial architecture, friendly locals, and wine region, Salta offers a quieter, more authentic Argentine experience compared to the bustling streets of Buenos Aires.
I was blown away by the diversity of landscapes in this region—from the colorful rock formations of Quebrada de Humahuaca to the vast salt flats of Salinas Grandes. Salta is also the gateway to Argentina’s famous Ruta 40, one of the longest roads in the world, which passes through some of the most stunning scenery in South America.
Why it’s underrated: While Patagonia gets most of the attention, Salta and its surrounding region offer an equally dramatic landscape, with far fewer tourists.
Best time to visit: April to October is the best time to visit, as the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for exploring the Andean highlands.
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Conclusion
South America is one of those places where, if you know where to look, you can find experiences that feel like they were made just for you. These off-the-radar spots will not only blow you away but also give you the kind of memories that stick with you long after you’ve returned home.
