Top 20 Landscape Landmarks – South America
1. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Marvel at the surreal beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, where endless dunes fill with crystal-clear freshwater lagoons during the rainy season.
Accessibility:
3/5. Accessible from São Luís in Maranhão, Brazil, with the nearest airport being Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport in São Luís.
Cost:
2/5. There are no entrance fees, but guided tours and transportation to the park can vary in price.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. Attracts a moderate number of visitors, especially during the rainy season when the lagoons are full.
Special:
Known for its vast desert landscape dotted with crystal-clear freshwater lagoons, formed during the rainy season.
2. Fitz Roy
Challenge yourself with a hike to Fitz Roy, an iconic peak in Patagonia, known for its sharp spires and alpine beauty.
Accessibility:
2/5. Located in Patagonia, Argentina, near the village of El Chaltén. The nearest airport is in El Calafate, requiring a bus or car ride to El Chaltén.
Cost:
2/5. No entrance fee for Los Glaciares National Park. Costs associated with travel to and accommodations in El Chaltén can vary.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. Popular with hikers and climbers from around the world, though its remote location moderates crowd size.
Special:
Known for its challenging climbs and stunning vistas, Fitz Roy stands as a granite monolith, emblematic of Patagonia’s rugged beauty.
3. Uyuni Salt Flat
Marvel at the otherworldly beauty of salt lakes, where the sky and ground merge in a mesmerizing mirror of nature’s tranquility.
Accessibility:
3/5. Located in southwest Bolivia, accessible via tours from Uyuni town. The nearest airport is Joya Andina Airport in Uyuni.
Cost:
3/5. Tours range in price depending on length and luxury, from day trips to longer excursions with stays in salt hotels.
Visitor Volume:
4/5. A popular destination for its surreal landscapes, especially during the wet season when it becomes a giant mirror.
Special:
The world’s largest salt flat, offering unique photo opportunities and otherworldly vistas, especially after rainfalls when it transforms into a reflective surface.
4. Cocora Valley
Wander through the Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palms, Colombia’s national tree, and enjoy the lush, verdant landscapes of the Andes.
Accessibility:
3/5. Cocora Valley is located in the coffee region of Colombia, near the town of Salento. It’s accessible by jeep (locally known as “Willys”) from Salento, which in turn is reachable by bus from larger cities like Pereira and Armenia. The roads are decent, but the last stretch to the valley is more rugged.
Cost:
2/5. Access to the valley itself is free, but transportation costs from Salento, entrance fees for certain trails or ecological areas, and optional guided tours increase the overall cost slightly.
Visitor Volume:
4/5. Known for its tall wax palm trees, Cocora Valley is a popular hiking destination. It can get busy on weekends and holidays, with visitors spreading out along the various trails.
Special:
Home to the Quindío wax palm, Colombia’s national tree, the valley offers breathtaking landscapes, cloud forest ecosystems, and excellent hiking opportunities, including a loop trail that showcases the best of the valley’s natural beauty.
5. Los Arrayanes National Park
Stroll through Los Arrayanes National Park, famed for its ancient and rare Arrayán trees with cinnamon-colored bark and a fairy-tale forest atmosphere.
Accessibility:
3/5. Located in the Patagonia region of Argentina, near the town of Villa La Angostura. The park is accessible by boat from Puerto Pañuelo near Bariloche or by a lengthy walk or bike ride from Villa La Angostura through the forest. The nearest airport is in San Carlos de Bariloche.
Cost:
3/5. Entry to the park has a fee, and additional costs may include boat transportation or bike rentals. While the park is relatively accessible, these activities contribute to the overall expense.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. Popular among tourists for its beautiful scenery and the unique myrtle forest with trees over 600 years old, it can be busy during peak seasons, especially in summer.
Special:
Notable for its rare and picturesque myrtle forest, where nearly all the trees are covered in a cinnamon-colored bark. The park offers a serene environment and scenic views along the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi.
6. Cerro Castillo
Trek to Cerro Castillo, a breathtaking mountain reserve known for its rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and unique Patagonian scenery.
Accessibility:
3/5. Cerro Castillo, a striking mountain located in Chilean Patagonia, near the Carretera Austral, is accessible from the nearby village of Villa Cerro Castillo. The area can be reached by car or bus from larger towns like Coyhaique, which has the nearest airport.
Cost:
3/5. Hiking the Cerro Castillo Trail requires an entrance fee. Costs for guided treks, equipment rental, and accommodations in Villa Cerro Castillo or Coyhaique add to the trip’s expense.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. While gaining popularity among trekkers for its stunning landscapes and less crowded trails compared to Torres del Paine, it still offers a more solitary experience in Patagonia’s wilderness.
Special:
Famed for its jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and glaciers, the Cerro Castillo Trek is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering spectacular views and encounters with Patagonian flora and fauna.
7. Rano Kau Easter Island
Witness Rano Kau, an extinct volcano on Easter Island, featuring a large crater lake with unique vegetation, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific.
Accessibility:
1/5. Flying to one of the world’s most remote islands is an adventure in itself. Easter Island’s mysteries begin with a journey from Santiago de Chile, landing you in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.
Cost:
5/5. Reaching this isolated paradise isn’t for the faint of wallet. The exclusivity of its location translates into premium travel costs, making every moment on the island a priceless experience.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. Its seclusion is a natural crowd control, ensuring that those who visit truly find a getaway from the world, amidst ancient mysteries and breathtaking vistas.
Special:
Rano Kau isn’t just a visit; it’s a voyage back in time. The volcano’s crater, overlooking the vast Pacific, shares the horizon with the enigmatic moai statues, offering a glimpse into the island’s captivating past.
8. Valle de la Luna
Explore the moon-like landscapes of Valle de la Luna in the Atacama Desert, known for its unique rock formations and surreal beauty.
Accessibility:
4/5. A short journey from the oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama takes you to another world. Roads are well-maintained, making it an easy trek to the lunar landscapes that await.
Cost:
2/5. The entrance fee is minimal, but the experience is priceless. Opt for a guided tour to uncover the valley’s secrets without breaking the bank.
Visitor Volume:
4/5. A magnet for adventurers and dreamers alike, its vastness allows everyone a spot to gaze at the sunset, painting the sky with otherworldly hues.
Special:
It’s a landscape so surreal, you’ll wonder if you’ve stepped off Earth. Salt caverns, sand dunes, and stone formations sculpted by eons create a backdrop that’s truly out of this world.
9. Perito Moreno Glacier
Witness the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive glacier that’s one of the most important tourist attractions in the Argentinian Patagonia.
Accessibility:
3/5. Located in Los Glaciares National Park in Argentine Patagonia, Perito Moreno is accessible from El Calafate by road. Regular tours and buses make the journey to this icy giant a seamless experience.
Cost:
3/5. Entry to the national park and glacier viewing platforms is reasonably priced. Additional activities like glacier trekking come at a higher cost but offer a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Visitor Volume:
4/5. A bucket-list destination for many, the glacier attracts crowds, especially during the southern summer. Yet, the park’s infrastructure manages to accommodate the influx gracefully, ensuring breathtaking views for all.
Special:
One of the few advancing glaciers in the world, Perito Moreno’s towering ice walls and deep blue crevasses offer a spectacle of nature’s power. The thunderous sound of ice breaking and falling into the lake is something you’ll remember forever.
10. Torres del Paine National Park
Adventure through Torres del Paine National Park, featuring dramatic mountains, bright blue icebergs, and golden pampas that host a wide array of wildlife.
Accessibility:
3/5. Nestled in Chile’s Patagonia region, Torres del Paine is accessible from Puerto Natales, the nearest city with bus connections. The remote beauty of this park is part of its allure, making the journey a preamble to its breathtaking landscapes.
Cost:
4/5. The park entrance fee, along with costs for accommodations (camping or refugios), guided tours, and potentially pricey transportation from Puerto Natales, reflects the premium experience of exploring one of the world’s most spectacular natural areas.
Visitor Volume:
4/5. Its reputation as a hiker’s paradise means it attracts crowds, especially during the Southern Hemisphere summer. Yet, the vastness of the park allows for moments of solitude amidst nature’s grandeur.
Special:
With its iconic granite towers, azure lakes, and majestic glaciers, Torres del Paine offers some of the most dramatic trekking routes in the world, surrounded by rich flora and fauna, including guanacos and condors.
11. Cabo Polonio
Visit Cabo Polonio, a remote and serene coastal village in Uruguay, known for its rugged beauty, lighthouse, and sea lion colonies.
Accessibility:
2/5. This secluded coastal village in Uruguay is off the grid and can only be reached by authorized 4×4 vehicles across the sand dunes or by a lengthy walk. The nearest major access point is the city of Rocha, with visitors often coming from Montevideo or Punta del Este.
Cost:
3/5. The cost is moderate, considering the unique experience. Accommodations are rustic and limited, contributing to an authentic escape from the modern world. Transportation to the area is the primary expense.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. Its remote nature and unique access method keep the crowds at bay, offering an intimate experience with nature, the ocean, and a night sky unspoiled by light pollution.
Special:
A place of simple beauty and tranquility, Cabo Polonio stands out for its wild beaches, shifting sand dunes, and a resident colony of sea lions. It’s a haven for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in a rugged natural environment.
12. Salta
Discover Salta, a city in Argentina known for its colonial architecture, scenic landscapes, and the nearby Salinas Grandes salt flats.
Accessibility:
4/5. Salta, located in northwest Argentina, is well-connected by flights from Buenos Aires and other major cities in Argentina, as well as by bus and train. Its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and the stunning landscapes of the surrounding Salta Province make it an accessible and appealing destination.
Cost:
3/5. Salta offers a range of accommodations and experiences to fit various budgets. Dining, local transportation, and entry fees to attractions like museums or nearby natural sites provide good value for the cost.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. A popular destination for its rich history, cultural offerings, and natural beauty, Salta attracts tourists but retains its charm without feeling overly crowded.
Special:
Salta is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, the stunning Train to the Clouds (Tren a las Nubes) journey, and the nearby Calchaquí Valleys, offering a deep dive into Argentina’s natural and cultural richness.
13. Sol de Mañana
Explore Sol de Mañana in the Altiplano, a vast plateau in the central Andes that stretches across Bolivia, offering stunning landscapes, ancient cultures, and unique biodiversity.
Accessibility:
2/5. Located in the remote southwestern part of Bolivia, near the Uyuni Salt Flats, it’s typically accessed via tours from Uyuni or San Pedro de Atacama in Chile, involving a rugged drive.
Cost:
3/5. Visiting is often part of a broader tour package that includes the salt flats and other nearby natural wonders, with the price reflecting the extensive offerings.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. A popular stop for those exploring Bolivia’s vast, otherworldly landscapes, yet its expansive nature prevents it from feeling overcrowded.
Special:
A geothermal field at high altitude, Sol de Mañana is known for its bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and a surreal landscape that feels like another planet.
14. Ciudad Perdida
Trek to Ciudad Perdida, the ‘Lost City,’ hidden deep in the Sierra Nevada mountains of Colombia, offering an unparalleled adventure through ancient ruins.
Accessibility:
1/5. Tucked away in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, reaching Ciudad Perdida is an adventure — accessible only by a challenging multi-day trek through dense jungle. The journey typically starts from Santa Marta, with tours arranged by licensed operators.
Cost:
3/5. The trek to Ciudad Perdida includes guide services, accommodation in camps, meals, and entrance fees. While not inexpensive, the cost reflects the unique and immersive experience of tracing ancient pathways to a mystical archaeological site.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. Its inaccessibility ensures that visitor numbers are limited, allowing for a deeply personal encounter with this ancient city. The trek is becoming increasingly popular but remains a path less traveled.
Special:
Built by the Tayrona people around 800 CE, much earlier than Machu Picchu, Ciudad Perdida offers a glimpse into pre-Columbian life amidst the breathtaking beauty of Colombia’s tropical forest.
15. Guatape
Explore Guatape, famous for the Peñol Rock, colorful zocalos, and breathtaking reservoir views, embodying Colombia’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.
Accessibility:
4/5. Known for the Peñón de Guatapé and its colorful zócalos (baseboards), Guatapé is a short drive from Medellín, Colombia. Regular bus services connect the two, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway.
Cost:
2/5. The town itself is free to explore, with small fees for climbing the Peñón and renting recreational equipment on the reservoir. Its affordability makes it an attractive destination for all types of travelers.
Visitor Volume:
4/5. Its proximity to Medellín and picturesque charm make Guatapé a favorite among both locals and international tourists, especially on weekends and holidays.
Special:
With its brightly painted buildings and stunning views from atop the Peñón, Guatapé offers visitors a vibrant slice of Colombian life alongside opportunities for leisure and adventure activities on the adjacent reservoir.
16. Vinicunca Mountain
Hike to Vinicunca Mountain, also known as Rainbow Mountain, famed for its colorful mineral deposits creating a rainbow-like appearance.
Accessibility:
2/5. About a 3-hour drive from Cusco, plus a challenging hike at high altitude to see the vibrant mineral stripes up close.
Cost:
3/5. Day trips from Cusco, including transport and guide, are moderately priced, but the experience is unparalleled.
Visitor Volume:
4/5. Its popularity has surged, though early mornings can offer quieter moments.
Special:
A geological marvel, offering a kaleidoscope of colors due to its rich mineral composition.
17. Colca Canyon
Explore Colca Canyon, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, and witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors.
Accessibility:
2/5. Several hours from Arequipa by road, traversing mountainous terrain to reach one of the world’s deepest canyons.
Cost:
3/5. Various tour options exist, from day trips to multi-day treks; accommodation ranges from basic to comfortable.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. Popular, especially at viewpoints like Cruz del Condor, but vast enough to explore more secluded spots.
Special:
Famed for its dramatic vistas, traditional villages, and the majestic flight of Andean condors.
18. Mount Roraima
Explore Mount Roraima, the majestic table-top mountain bordering Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. Its unique ecosystems and surreal landscapes inspire awe and adventure.
Accessibility:
1/5. Deep in the junction of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, getting there is a trekker’s endeavor, starting mostly from Venezuela.
Cost:
4/5. The journey’s price reflects its remoteness and the guided experience required to navigate and camp in this rugged terrain.
Visitor Volume:
2/5. Few make the journey, offering an untouched and serene experience to those who do.
Special:
A prehistoric landscape with unique flora and fauna, set high above the surrounding rainforest.
19. Vale da Lua
Visit Vale da Lua in Brazil, ‘Valley of the Moon,’ famous for its unique rock formations that resemble lunar landscapes, set within the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park.
Accessibility:
3/5. Part of the Chapada dos Veadeiros in Brazil, Vale da Lua is accessible by road from Alto Paraíso or São Jorge. A short hike is required to reach the rock formations.
Cost:
2/5. There’s a small fee to enter the park. The area is generally affordable with expenses mainly for accommodation in the nearby towns.
Visitor Volume:
3/5. Its unique lunar landscapes attract visitors, but the park manages to maintain a balance, avoiding overcrowding.
Special:
Carved by the São Miguel River, Vale da Lua’s smooth rock formations resemble a lunar landscape, offering a unique and otherworldly natural environment for exploration and swimming.
20. Huacachina
Discover Huacachina, a desert oasis nestled among towering sand dunes in Peru, offering visitors the chance to sandboard and ride dune buggies in a stunning setting.
Accessibility:
4/5. This desert oasis is easily accessible, located just a few kilometers from Ica, Peru, which is well-connected by bus from Lima and other major cities.
Cost:
2/5. The cost of visiting Huacachina is generally affordable, with most expenses coming from optional activities like sandboarding or dune buggy rides.
Visitor Volume:
4/5. A popular spot for both Peruvians and international tourists, it can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, but the surrounding dunes offer escape and adventure.
Special:
Surrounded by towering sand dunes, Huacachina serves as a unique base for exploring the desert landscape, offering activities like sandboarding and dune buggy tours, along with picturesque sunset views.