Central/South America Guide - WaylessTravelers

Central & South America Travel Guide

South America is one of those continents that grabs you by the soul. From the jagged peaks of Patagonia to the desert landscapes of Atacama, the rich Andean Culture of Peru to the ancient lost civilizations in Tikal, and the awe-inspiring glaciers of Argentina, every corner offers something unforgettable. And don’t even get us started on the food!

We’ve now spent over six months exploring Chile, Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, and Guatemala, chasing epic hikes, starry skies, and immersing in the local culture, and we can’t wait to help you plan your own South American adventure.

Whether you’re after world-class trekking deep into Colca Canyon protected by the majestic condors, finding the best tacos and ceviches, or spiritual journeys bringing you closer to the Incan gods of Machu Picchu, this guide will show you the best experiences, travel tips, and itineraries to make the most of your trip to South America.

Our Top Travel Experiences in Central/South America

Peru ‣ Chile ‣ Argentina ‣ Bolivia ‣ Guatemala

The diversity of experiences in Central & South America is incredible! One minute you’re wandering ancient temples perched high in the Andes, the next you’re racing across one of the driest deserts on Earth, hunting for steaming geysers and curious herds of Vicuñas! Here are some of our favourite experiences from Central and South America.

A few more epic experiences

Hiking in Patagonia – Trek iconic trails like Torres del Paine’s Base de las Torres or embark on one of the most scenic drives that includes Patagonia’s top viewpoints! We explored both the Argentina Patagonia and Chilean Patagonia.
Atacama Desert Road Trip – Drive through otherworldly landscapes, geysers, salt flats, and lagoons in one of the driest deserts on Earth.
Perito Moreno Glacier – Get up close to one of the world’s most stunning glaciers! Wander the boardwalks, cruise alongside it by boat, or take your adventure further with an ice-climbing experience.
Stargazing in Atacama – Experience some of the clearest skies in the world and marvel at the Milky Way on this Star Gazing experience in the Atacama Desert!
Machu Picchu on the Salkantay Trail – Hike the Salkantay Trail and wander through breathtaking Andean landscapes, discover ancient Incan ruins, and finish your adventure at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, one of the world’s wonders.
Hike an Active Volcano in Antigua, Guatemala – Wander colorful streets, climb volcanoes, and discover cultural gems in Antigua and around Lake Atitlán.

Countries We’ve Explored in Central/South America

Chile

Highlights: Hiking in Torres del Paine, Horseback riding in Patagonia, Star gazing in the Atacama Desert, Road Trip through the Atacama Desert
Best Time to Visit: October-April in Patagonia, Atacama Desert Year-round
Budget: Mid-to-high for Patagonia, especially if staying inside Torres del Paine National Park. Atacama is considered Mid-to-Low.
Safety: Both the Atacama Desert and Patagonia were very safe to visit. The only area we felt unsafe was at the Capital city of Santiago.
Best For: Photographers, Adventure Travelers, Avid Hikers.

Argentina

Highlights: World-class hiking in Los Glaciares National Park, Witness Perito Moreno Glacier
Best Time to Visit: October to March for Patagonia
Budget: Mid-to-High in Patagonia. Both accommodations and food tend to be expensive, a situation compounded by Argentina’s high inflation and currency devaluation.
Safety: Argentina’s Patagonia is considered very safe. in Buenos Aires however, you need to be cautious.
Best For: Avid Hikers, Photographers, Outdoors Adventurers

Peru

Highlights: Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu, Colca Canyon Hike, Discover the culture in Cuzco, sandboarding in Huacachina, Stay in a floating home in Lake Titicaca, Exploring the colonial volcanic town of Arequipa, sampling Peruvian Cusine!
Best Time to Visit: May to September (dry season)
Budget: Low to moderate; very affordable hotels, meals, and tours
Safety: Main tourist areas are considered safe. Exert caution when in Lima
Best For: Avid Hikers, Photographers, Outdoors Adventurers, Cultural/Historical Travelers

Guatemala

Highlights: Explore the colourful colonial city of Antigua, Hike Acatenango active volcano, visit the Ancient ruins of Yaxha and Tikal, Relax at the volcano lake of Lake Atitlan
Best Time to Visit: November – April (dry season)
Budget: Low to moderate; very affordable hotels, meals, and tours
Safety: Main tourist areas like Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Flores are considered safe. Exert caution at the capital of Guatemala City.
Best For: Avid Hikers, Volcanos, Cultural/Historical Travelers

Bolivia – Coming Soon!

Featured Central/South America Itinerary Guides

Here you’ll find carefully crafted guides and itineraries based on firsthand experience and in-depth research. Each guide is created to help you experience Central & South America in the most unforgettable way, while staying budget-friendly and safe!

Central & South America: Travel Inspiration

Some experiences are difficult to put into words. These images capture a glimpse of the moments that made our travels through Central and South America truly unforgettable.