Underrated South American Destinations

Looking for South American destinations with a difference?  These incredible destinations will jump up your list for discovering beauty, culture and wildlife!

Altiplano, Bolivia

Altiplano stretches from southern Peru, near Lake Titicaca, to the southwestern corner of Bolivia.  Also called Puna, it is home to some spectacular landscapes, including the Uyuni Salt Flats.  A great place to see llamas and alpacas, the high plains can be included in a road trip between other major sights.

Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica

Located on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, the remote and beautiful Corcovado National Park covers a multitude of terrain.  Including the last remaining old growth rain forests on the Pacific coast of Central America.  Known for its remote hikes and diverse wildlife, the Corcovado National Park can only be hiked with a guide.

Uros Islands, Peru

These incredible reed islands float on top of Lake Titicaca, and are basically a floating community for the Uro-Aymara people.  Take a trip out to this unusual village, learn how they use the Totora reeds to create not only the floating islands, but also the boats and houses.  It is a wonderful way to experience what life is like on this mountain lake.

Cabo Polonio, Uruguay

This isolated beach is located 7kms from a main road, and is only accessible by 4×4 vehicle or by a hike through the sand dunes.  This secluded piece of Uruguayan coastline is perfect for those looking for the ultimate getaway.  Nothing but white sand beaches, horse-riding trails and the natural beauty of the sand dunes. 

As far as underrated South American destinations is concerned, these four wildly different, and wildly beautiful locations will show you the richness and diversity of the South American countries.