South America Travel Guide: Ultimate Backpacking Trip through Peru, Bolivia and Chile

South America

A South America trip is a bucket list item for many travelers. This vibrant continent offers diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, as well as unforgettable adventures off the beaten path. I spent two months backpacking through Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, collecting memories that will stay with me forever.

So, what should you expect from a trip to South America? In Bolivia, the surreal Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flats, feels like another planet. Chile surprises with its dramatic deserts, soaring mountains and lively modern cities. And Peru? It’ll leave you speechless with Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and its rich cultural heritage.

In fact, each destination gave us moments we’ll never forget. I truly believe these countries are among the best places to visit in South America. Whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or natural beauty, this region has something for everyone.

Read all my posts ON south America destinations

4 Amazing Hikes in South America: Peru and Northern Chile

4 Amazing Hikes in South America: Peru and Northern Chile

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Discover 4 incredible hikes in South America through Peru and…

Cerro Toco or Lascar: To the Summit of Chile's Volcanoes, Chile Travel Guide

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Complete Tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats and Colored Lagoons

Complete Tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats and Colored Lagoons

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Discover the Uyuni salt flats and the lagoons in Bolivia!…

From Lima Peru to the World's Highest Navigable Lake

From Lima Peru to the World’s Highest Navigable Lake

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Lima is the capital city of Peru but the cultural…

3 Days in Cusco: View from Above

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Spend 3 days in Cusco exploring its ancient history, artisan…

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Huayhuash Trek: Experience the Magic of the 8-Day Journey

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5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - The Best Alternative Route, Peru

5-Day Salkantay Trek: The Best Alternative to Machu Picchu

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The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is an alternative path…

Peru, How to Hike the Colca Canyon in 2 Days

How to Hike the Colca Canyon in 2 Days, Peru

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An itinerary for hiking Colca Canyon in 2 days, one…

My Epic 2 Month Backpacking Trip in South America

My Epic 2 Month Backpacking Trip in South America

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My 2 month backpacking trip in South America took me…

Chile, Your Complete Guide to Biking Valle de la Luna

Your Complete Guide to Biking Valle de la Luna

May 1, 2025

In this travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to…

Ultimate 10 Day Atacama Desert Itinerary in the Northern Chile

Ultimate 10 Day Atacama Desert Itinerary in the Northern Chile

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Planning an Atacama Desert itinerary? Cycle through some of the…

A Complete Guide to Sacred Valley: Peru's Hidden Gem

A Complete Guide to Sacred Valley: Peru’s Hidden Gem

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This blog post explores the Sacred Valley in Peru, highlighting…

Ultimate Guide to the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

Ultimate Guide to the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

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The rainbow mountain and the red valley lie within close…

The Best of Bolivia, Itinerary Suggestions in South America

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Apr 25, 2025

Check out the best of Bolivia on a 10-day trip!…

South America: Peru Travel Blog Guide to Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and hiking adventures

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Explore 3 weeks in Peru, starting in Arequipa, flying over…