Travelling to South America is a dream come true for travellers. The continent is diverse, from the lush-green Amazon rainforests to snow-covered Andes, magnificent deserts, and pristine beaches. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and a mesmerising mix of culture, archaeology, and nature, making South America a top destination for travellers.
Read on to learn about the best cities in South America you should not miss out on.
List of cities in South America for travellers
Known as the continent of extremes, South America is home to the world's driest place—the Atacama Desert and the world's largest river—the Amazon.
Here are some of the most-visited cities in South America.
1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
This South American city perfectly combines cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and lively traditions. It is the second-most populous city in Brazil, located in the southeast part of South America. Rio de Janeiro is a prominent tourist destination with iconic landmarks such as the Corcovado Mountain and the 100-year-old Christ the Redeemer statue. The vibrant local culture takes centre stage during the Carnival in Rio, where the streets are filled with upbeat samba dancing and music.
- Currency: Brazilian real (BRL)
2. Cusco, Peru
Cusco is home to ancient Incan walls, old stone streets, and bustling markets and is often called the gateway to Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is called the "Lost City of the Incas" and boasts stunning views of the landscape. The Sacred Valley of the Incas and the famous Inca Trail are pieces of the Incan and colonial history present here.
- Currency: Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN)
3. Santiago, Chile
Santiago offers a mix of old-world charm and modern energy, set against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains. The streets of Santiago offer neoclassical architecture, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, that contrasts with modern neighbourhoods like the Bellavista, known for its lively art scene and exciting nightlife. The view of the Andes Mountains from the city's skyscrapers adds to the city's charm.
- Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
4. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is one of the most-visited cities in South America, bustling with life and colour. The 16th-century town reflects Spanish colonialism in its architecture, which makes it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides its rich heritage and architecture, Cartagena is also home to pristine beaches. The crystal-clear water and soft white sand of the Rosario Islands are a traveller's paradise.
- Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
5. Quito, Ecuador
Ecuador's capital, Quito, is another South American city on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. At an altitude of 9,350 feet, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world. The San Francisco and Santo Domingo monasteries are a few unmissable architectural gems. It is also a crucial stop for people travelling to the Galapagos Islands, a group of volcanic islands.
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Interesting facts about the top cities in South America
Here are some interesting facts about the top cities in South America:
- São Paulo, Brazil, is known as the largest city in the Southern Hemisphere, with over 23 million residents, making it one of the biggest cities in the world.
- Situated in the southern part of Argentina and Chile, Tierra del Fuego is Spanish for "Land of Fire." The main island of this archipelago is Isla Grande. Due to its southern extremity, its main city, Ushuaia, is sometimes known as "the End of the World."
- Colombia's capital, Bogota, is its largest and most diverse city. Its ethnic populations include Spanish, African, Middle Eastern, and Indigenous people.
- Brasília, Brazil's capital, is known for its innovative urban layout in the shape of an aeroplane. This iconic urban layout has earned Brasília the UNESCO World Heritage Site title.
- Buenos Aires is known as the "Paris of South America" for its growing metropolitan population, architecture, and culture.
Conclusion
While South America is a beautiful, exciting destination, it is spread out over a vast area, requiring extensive travel. In order to ensure a smooth journey, invest in a good international travel insurance plan to safeguard your trip. Travel insurance can financially aid you and cover a range of unexpected situations, such as medical emergencies, flight delays, lost luggage and last-minute cancellations. Good insurance is your constant companion and ensures a comfortable trip as you enjoy South America's exquisite scenic beauty and culture.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.