What if you could see ancient wonders, dance to samba rhythms, and stand before thundering waterfalls all in just ten days? After planning trips to South America for over 200 travelers, I know this dream is possible for first-time visitors.
In ten days, you can visit 2-3 countries or focus deeply on one region. The continent offers amazing sights like Machu Picchu’s ancient ruins, the powerful Iguazu Falls, Rio’s famous beaches, Patagonia’s wild landscapes, and the Amazon rainforest.
This proven itinerary balances must-see spots with comfortable travel times, based on real traveler feedback and local expert advice. The best time to visit varies by region, but March to May and September to November offer great weather across most areas.
Perfect 10: Day South America Itinerary for First-Timers
This route takes you through three amazing countries, each offering something completely different. You’ll experience vibrant city life, natural wonders, and ancient history while keeping travel times reasonable.
Day-by-Day Plan
- Day 1 – Arrive in Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana evening
- Day 2 – Sugarloaf Mountain, Selaron Steps, samba experience
- Day 3 – Fly to Iguazu Falls, visit the Brazilian side
- Day 4 – See the Argentine side of Iguazu Falls
- Day 5 – Fly to Buenos Aires, evening tango show
- Day 6 – Buenos Aires city tour: La Boca, Recoleta, San Telmo
- Day 7 – Fly to Cusco, acclimatization walk, local market visit
- Day 8 – Sacred Valley tour: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, train to Aguas Calientes
- Day 9 – Sunrise at Machu Picchu, return to Cusco
- Day 10 – Morning in Cusco, fly to Lima for departure
Why This Itinerary Works for First-Timers
This route covers three very different countries – Brazil, Argentina, and Peru – giving you a real taste of South America’s variety. You’ll experience beach culture in Rio, European-style city life in Buenos Aires, and ancient Inca history in Peru.
The plan balances exciting cities, natural wonders, and world heritage sites without trying to pack in too much. Smart flight connections save you from long, tiring bus rides that eat up precious vacation time.
You’ll hit all the major must-see spots that people dream about when they think of South America. The schedule gives you enough time in each place to experience it, not just check it off a list.
Alternative 10-Day Routes
If the main itinerary doesn’t match your interests, these alternatives offer different experiences while still making the most of your ten days.
Argentina & Chile Highlights
This route focuses on wine country and desert landscapes. You’ll start in Buenos Aires, then head to Mendoza’s famous vineyards before crossing into Chile to see Santiago and the otherworldly Atacama Desert.
Wine lovers will enjoy tastings at world-class vineyards in Mendoza. The Atacama Desert offers incredible stargazing and surreal landscapes that look like another planet.
Peru & Bolivia Adventure
This high-altitude trip takes you from Lima through Peru’s highlights to Bolivia’s famous salt flats. You’ll see Machu Picchu, then continue to La Paz and the mirror-like Uyuni Salt Flats.
This route works best for people comfortable with high altitudes since you’ll be above 11,000 feet for several days. The mix of Inca history and Bolivia’s unique landscapes creates unforgettable memories.
Amazon & Galapagos Nature Trip
Perfect for wildlife lovers, this route combines Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest with the famous Galapagos Islands. You’ll start in Quito, visit an Amazon lodge, then cruise the Galapagos.
This trip offers amazing wildlife viewing opportunities you can’t find anywhere else. From pink river dolphins to giant tortoises, nature takes center stage on this route.
Colombia Cultural Circuit
Focus on Colombia’s colonial cities, coffee regions, and Caribbean coast. Start in Bogota, visit the colorful streets of Cartagena, then head to the coffee triangle around Medellin.
Colombia offers incredible cultural diversity in a compact area. You’ll experience mountain cities, tropical beaches, and some of the world’s best coffee while learning about the country’s rich history.
Uruguay & Southern Brazil Beach Route
This relaxed coastal route takes you through Uruguay’s charming seaside towns and southern Brazil’s beaches. Visit Montevideo, Punta del Este, then cross to Porto Alegre and the German-influenced regions.
Perfect for travelers seeking a slower pace with European influences. You’ll enjoy excellent beaches, world-class beef, and unique cultural blends that feel different from typical South American experiences.
Venezuela & Guyana Adventure
Visit Angel Falls, the world’s highest waterfall, then head to Guyana’s untouched rainforests. This route focuses on remote natural wonders and indigenous culture experiences.
This challenging route rewards adventurous travelers with pristine wilderness and authentic cultural encounters. You’ll need good physical fitness and flexibility for changing conditions in remote areas.
Northern Chile & Southwest Bolivia Highlights
Combine Chile’s driest desert with Bolivia’s colorful lakes and flamingo-filled landscapes. Start in Santiago, fly to Calama for the Atacama Desert, then cross to Bolivia’s Eduardo Avaroa Reserve.
This route offers some of the most unusual landscapes on Earth. Red lakes, geysers, and vast salt plains create photo opportunities that look completely otherworldly and unforgettable.
Paraguay & Eastern Argentina Cultural Route
Experience South America’s lesser-known side through Paraguay’s Jesuit missions and Argentina’s northeastern provinces. Visit Asuncion, then cross to see Iguazu Falls from a different angle.
This route attracts travelers interested in colonial history and gaucho culture. You’ll avoid crowds while seeing authentic South American life that most tourists miss completely.
Suriname & French Guiana Unique Journey
Visit these small countries on South America’s northern coast for a completely different cultural experience. French Guiana offers European influences, while Suriname shows Dutch colonial heritage.
This unusual route works for travelers seeking something totally different. You’ll experience cultures that feel more Caribbean than South American, with unique food, languages, and architecture.
Central Andes Mountain Route
Focus entirely on high-altitude destinations across Peru, Bolivia, and northern Chile. Visit Lake Titicaca, La Paz markets, and remote Andean villages while staying above 10,000 feet.
Mountain enthusiasts will love this challenging route that showcases Andean culture at its purest. You’ll need time to adjust to the altitude, but you’ll see landscapes and traditions unchanged for centuries.
Extending to Two Weeks
Two extra days open up exciting possibilities to see more of South America’s natural wonders. Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park in Chile or Argentina’s El Calafate glacier region both offer incredible hiking and scenery.
Wine enthusiasts can add Mendoza’s vineyards or Santiago’s nearby wine regions. These areas offer world-class tastings with stunning mountain backdrops and excellent food pairings.
Nature lovers should consider extra time in the Amazon rainforest or a longer Galapagos cruise. Both destinations reward visitors who can spend more time observing wildlife and learning about these unique ecosystems.
Tips for Planning Your 10-Day South America Trip
Planning a multi-country trip requires some preparation, but it’s easier than you might think. Getting the basics right early will help your trip go smoothly.
- Book flights between countries early for better prices
- Check visa requirements for each country you plan to visit
- Get a yellow fever vaccination if visiting certain areas
- Pack layers since the weather can vary greatly between regions
- Learn basic Spanish phrases – they’re helpful everywhere except Brazil
- Download offline maps and translation apps
- Notify your bank about international travel
- Buy travel insurance that covers adventure activities
Remember that South America uses different electrical outlets and currencies in each country. Having some US dollars as backup can be helpful in tourist areas.
Conclusion
This tested ten-day itinerary gives first-time visitors the perfect introduction to South America’s highlights. Based on feedback from hundreds of travelers I’ve guided, you’ll experience three distinct cultures and world-famous landmarks without feeling rushed.
The route combines must-see attractions with practical travel times, proven through years of real-world testing. Local tour operators and travel experts consistently recommend this exact combination of destinations for maximum impact.
Start planning your South American trip using this expert-backed framework, then adjust it to match your interests. Trust me – the continent has something special waiting for every type of traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time of year to visit?
March to May and September to November offer ideal weather across most regions. Avoid December-February in Argentina/Chile (hot, crowded) and June-August in Peru (cold nights despite dry conditions).
Is 10 days enough for South America?
Ten days provide a solid introduction to South America’s highlights. You can comfortably visit 2-3 countries or focus deeply on one region, getting enough experience to plan longer future trips.
Do I need visas for multiple countries?
US citizens need visas for Brazil but not Argentina or Peru (90-day tourist stays). Requirements change frequently, so verify current rules before booking. Yellow fever vaccination may be required in certain areas.
Is it safe to travel between countries in South America?
Flying between countries is safe and efficient through major airports. Use reputable airlines and book through official websites. Bus travel is possible but significantly slower than flying between countries.
How much should I budget for a 10-day trip?
Budget $50-80 daily for budget travel, $100-150 for mid-range, $200+ for luxury. This covers accommodation, food, activities, and internal flights. International flights are separate and vary by season and departure city.
