Where To Go In Central & South America
Where to go in Central & South America depends on what kind of trip you want.
From rainforests and ancient ruins to colonial cities, mountains, beaches and vibrant culture, this region offers huge variety across surprisingly short travel distances.
Below are some of the best places to visit, grouped by travel style — whether you’re chasing nature, culture, adventure, beaches or travelling long-term on a budget.
Mexico
Costa Rica
Colombia
Bolivia
Guatemala
Panama
Peru
Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Mexico
Mexico is one of the most diverse countries in Central America, offering a mix of colonial cities, ancient ruins, beaches, and vibrant culture. Highlights include Mexico City’s food and history, Oaxaca’s traditions, the Yucatán’s cenotes and Mayan ruins, and Caribbean beaches like Tulum. Travellers love Mexico for its variety, well-developed backpacker routes and affordable daily costs. It’s an easy country to navigate with great food, friendly locals and experiences ranging from jungle ruins to relaxed beach towns.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is famous for its wildlife, rainforests, and surf beaches. Highlights include Monteverde’s cloud forest, Arenal Volcano, and the Pacific coast surf towns. Backpackers love Costa Rica for its eco-tourism, safe travel routes, and nature-focused experiences. It’s ideal for those wanting jungle, wildlife and beaches in a compact country.
Colombia
Colombia is one of South America’s most exciting backpacking destinations, combining colourful cities, mountains, and Caribbean coastline. Highlights include Medellín’s transformation, Cartagena’s old town, and the jungle trek to the Lost City. Backpackers love Colombia for its energy, friendly atmosphere, and varied landscapes. With affordable costs and improving infrastructure, it’s a country that offers culture, adventure and beaches in one route.
Bolivia
Bolivia offers some of South America’s most unique and otherworldly landscapes. Highlights include the Uyuni Salt Flats, high-altitude cities like La Paz, and the colourful lagoons of the Altiplano. Backpackers are drawn to Bolivia for its raw beauty, low costs and adventurous routes. It’s a destination for those seeking dramatic scenery and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Guatemala
Guatemala is known for its dramatic landscapes, colourful towns, and rich Mayan heritage. Highlights include Lake Atitlán’s volcano views, Antigua’s cobbled streets and the ancient ruins of Tikal deep in the jungle. Backpackers are drawn to its compact travel routes, low costs, and authentic local culture. It’s a country where you can hike volcanoes, explore markets, and visit world-class ruins all within short distances.
Panama
Costa Rica is famous for its wildlife, rainforests, and surf beaches. Highlights include Monteverde’s cloud forest, Arenal Volcano, and the Pacific coast surf towns. Backpackers love Costa Rica for its eco-tourism, safe travel routes, and nature-focused experiences. It’s ideal for those wanting jungle, wildlife and beaches in a compact country.
Peru
Peru is famous for its ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and iconic trekking routes. Highlights include Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Cusco’s colonial streets, and the deserts of Huacachina. Travelers visit Peru for its bucket-list hikes, rich Inca history and diverse scenery from mountains to coastline. Despite its popularity, it remains affordable and well-suited to backpacker travel.
Brazil
Brazil is vast, vibrant, and full of contrasts, from iconic beaches to dense Amazon rainforest. Highlights include Rio de Janeiro’s landmarks, the waterfalls of Iguazu, and the rhythms of Salvador. Travelers love Brazil for its energy, music and natural wonders. While distances are larger, the experiences range from city culture to jungle adventures and world-famous coastlines.
Chile
Argentina is known for its European-style cities, rugged Patagonia landscapes, and incredible food culture. Highlights include Buenos Aires’ neighbourhoods, the glaciers of El Calafate, and the mountains around Bariloche. Backpackers enjoy Argentina for its scenery, hiking routes and vibrant city life. It’s ideal for those wanting dramatic nature combined with culture and nightlife.
Argentina
Argentina is known for its European-style cities, rugged Patagonia landscapes, and incredible food culture. Highlights include Buenos Aires’ neighbourhoods, the glaciers of El Calafate, and the mountains around Bariloche. Backpackers enjoy Argentina for its scenery, hiking routes and vibrant city life. It’s ideal for those wanting dramatic nature combined with culture and nightlife.