Two optional 7 week South America itineraries: a fast paced route vs a slow one to help you decide which suits you best.
7 Week South America Highlights Tour
Here’s a summary of this 7-week South America itinerary:
| Week | Country | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Colombia | Bogotá, Medellin, Santa Marta |
| Week 2 | Ecuador | Quito, Cotopaxi, Baños |
| Week 3 | Peru | Lima, Paracas, Cusco, Machu Picchu |
| Week 4 | Bolivia | La Paz, Copacabana, Uyuni |
| Week 5 | Chile | Atacama Desert, Santiago |
| Week 6 | Argentina (Patagonia) | El Calafate, El Chaltén |
| Week 7 | Argentina / Brazil | Bariloche, Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls |
With seven weeks across multiple countries, timing becomes one of the most important decisions you’ll make, my best time to visit South America guide covers how to approach it by region.
Week 1 – Colombia
Colombia is a vibrant country known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural history. Week one will take you from bustling cities to beautiful beaches, giving you a taste of both urban life and nature.
Stop 1 – Bogotá
Colombia’s capital city is a mix of colonial architecture and modern development. Travelers love its art, museums, and lively atmosphere.
- Recommended days: 1-2
- Recommended activities: Explore the historical center on a free walking tour, visit the Gold Museum and hike up Monserrate for views of the city.
Stop 2 – Medellín
Medellín has undergone a transformation from its turbulent past into a hub of innovation and culture. Nestled in a valley, it’s known for its pleasant climate and friendly locals.
- Recommended days: 2-3
- Recommended activities: Day trip to Guatapé and climb the Piedra del Peñol for stunning views. Ride the famous cable cars for panoramic views of the city.
Stop 3 – Santa Marta
Santa Marta is the gateway to Colombia’s Caribbean coast and is loved for its access to pristine beaches and nearby natural wonders like Tayrona National Park.
- Recommended days: 1-2
- Recommended activities: Visit Tayrona National Park for hikes and stunning beaches. Spend a day in Minca exploring coffee farms, waterfalls, and sunset views.
Week 2: Ecuador
Ecuador is a small country packed with diverse experiences, from the high-altitude capital Quito to volcanoes and adventure-filled towns. This week offers a mix of culture and adrenaline.
Stop 4 – Quito
Ecuador’s capital sits high in the Andes and is famous for its well-preserved historic center and proximity to natural attractions.
- Recommended days: 1-2
- Recommended activities: Explore the historic center and take a day trip to the Equator line. Ride the Teleferico for panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.
Stop 5 – Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are known for their unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and pristine marine ecosystems.
- Recommended days: 4-5
- Recommended activities: Snorkel with sea lions, take a day tour to uninhabited islands, hike volcanic landscapes, relax on beaches like Tortuga Bay or Las Greitas
Week 3: Peru
Peru is rich in history, from the Inca civilization to Spanish colonial influences. This week will take you from coastal deserts to the heart of the Andes.
Stop 6 – Lima
Peru’s capital is a sprawling metropolis known for its coastal cliffs and culinary scene.
- Recommended days: 1-2
- Recommended activities: Stroll through Miraflores and the bohemian Barranco district.Sample ceviche and explore the city’s coastal parks and boardwalks. Visit the historic center and Plaza de Armas for colonial architecture.
Stop 7 – Cusco & Machu Picchu
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a bustling city filled with culture, history, and nearby ruins.
- Recommended days: 1-2 for Cusco and 3-4 for Machu Picchu
- Recommended activities: Walk the cobbled streets of Cusco and visit the Sacred Valley. Hike the Salkantay Trek or take a train to Machu Picchu.
Week 4: Bolivia
Bolivia offers some of South America’s most dramatic landscapes, from the heights of La Paz to the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats. This week focuses on nature and adventure.
Stop 8 – La Paz
La Paz, sitting at 3,650 meters, is one of the highest cities in the world and is famous for its unique urban landscape and vibrant culture.
- Recommended days: 2-3
- Recommended activities: Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Cycle down the infamous Death Road.
Stop 9 – Uyuni Salt Flats
The Uyuni Salt Flats are a surreal, otherworldly destination, known for their vast white expanses and reflective surfaces.
From here you embark on a 3-day tour, visiting lagoons, deserts, and volcanoes.
Don’t have the time for 7 weeks in South America, my one-month routes are perfect for those short on time who still want to see as much of continent as they can.
Week 5: Chile
Chile is a land of contrasts, from the driest desert in the world to cosmopolitan cities. This week highlights both natural beauty and urban experiences.
Stop 10 – Atacama Desert
Known for its otherworldly landscapes and stargazing opportunities, the Atacama Desert is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Recommended days: 2-3
- Recommended activities: Stargaze in one of the world’s clearest skies, known for its minimal light pollution. Visit the Valley of the Moon and watch the sunset over Mars-like terrain. Explore the geysers at El Tatio and the salt flats filled with flamingos.
Stop 11 – Santiago
Chile’s capital city is a vibrant metropolis surrounded by mountains and known for its cultural scene and history.
- Recommended days: 1-2
- Recommended activities: Explore Santiago’s markets, museums, and parks, like Parque Metropolitano.
Week 5/6: Chile and Argentinian Patagonia
Patagonia is famous for its stunning glaciers, dramatic mountains, and endless hiking opportunities. This week focuses on exploring this breathtaking region.
Stop 12 – Torres Del Paine
I recommend 5-7 days here to include the epic W-trek. This is enough time to complete the 5-day self-guided W-trek through Torres Del Paine and have a rest day either side.
Stop 13 – Ushuaia
You can take a bus across the border from Chile to Argentinian Patagonia. Best to work your way down to the bottom of Argentina first.
Commonly referred to as the ‘end of the world’, Ushuaia is a beautiful but remote region.
- Recommended days: 2-3
- Recommended activities: Take a boat tour of the Beagle Channel and go trekking in Tierra Del Fuego National Park
Stop 14 – El Calafate
El Calafate is the gateway to the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most famous sights in Patagonia.
- Recommended days: 2-3
- Recommended activities: Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier and take a boat tour to see it up close.Walk the boardwalks for panoramic views of the glacier’s blue ice walls.
Stop 15 – El Chaltén
El Chaltén is a hiker’s paradise known for its rugged beauty and proximity to Mount Fitz Roy.
- Recommended days: 3-4
- Recommended activities: Trek to Laguna de los Tres for stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy.
Week 7: Argentina/Brazil
End your trip with a mix of outdoor beauty and urban exploration in the capitals of Argentina and Brazil. From cosmopolitan Buenos Aires and the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, to the beaches of Rio, this week wraps up your seven week South American adventure in style.
Stop 16 – Buenos Aires
Argentina’s capital is a dynamic city famous for its tango, vibrant nightlife, and European-inspired architecture.
- Recommended days: 3-4
- Recommended activities: Visit La Boca, San Telmo, and the Recoleta Cemetery. Experience a tango show and dine on famous Argentine steak. Stroll through Palermo’s parks and boutique shops.
Stop 17 – Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls, one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the world, spans both Argentina and Brazil, offering stunning views from both sides.
- Recommended days: 1-2
- Recommended activities: Explore the Argentine and Brazilian sides of Iguazu Falls, taking in the incredible power and beauty of this natural wonder. Take a boat ride to get up close to the falls and feel the mist.
Stop 18 – Rio
End your trip in the capital of Brazil and one of the most unique cities in the world.
- Recommended days: 3-4
- Recommended activities: Climb sugarloaf mountain, trek to Christ the Redeemer and enjoy caipirinhas on Copacabana beach.
7 weeks too long for you? Here’s a selection of six week itineraries that include Machu Picchu, Patagonia, Rio, and more
“Joe turned our fragmented ideas into a seamless itinerary. His expert advice saved us time, money, and stress – making our time in Argentina unforgettable”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sam & Amy – 1 Month In Argentina
Planning a trip to Argentina?
Are you struggling with any of this?
✔ Unsure how to pick the best route
✔ Spent hours researching… and still feeling lost
✔ Want freedom, not a rigid tour
✔ Don’t want to spend $5,000+ on a travel agent
You don’t have to figure it out solo!
I help travellers like you plan custom Argentina trips that are efficient, affordable, and totally personalised.
Slow Paced 7-Week South America Itinerary Options
Here are a couple of alternative options for slower paced seven week South America itineraries that focus on 2-3 countries:
7 Weeks – Brazil, Argentina and Chile
| Week | Country | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Brazil | Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande, Florianópolis |
| Week 2 | Brazil | Iguazu Falls, São Paulo |
| Week 3 | Argentina | Buenos Aires, Mendoza |
| Week 4 | Argentina / Chile | Bariloche, El Chaltén |
| Week 5 | Chile (Patagonia) | Torres del Paine, Puerto Natales |
| Week 6 | Chile | Santiago, Valparaíso |
| Week 7 | Peru / Ecuador | Lima, Quito, Baños |
7 Weeks – Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia
| Week | Country | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Colombia | Bogotá, Medellín, Guatapé |
| Week 2 | Colombia | Cartagena, Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park |
| Week 3 | Ecuador | Quito, Otavalo, Baños |
| Week 4 | Ecuador | Cuenca, Guayaquil, Galápagos Islands (optional) |
| Week 5 | Peru | Lima, Huacachina, Paracas |
| Week 6 | Peru | Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu |
| Week 7 | Bolivia | La Paz, Uyuni (Salt Flats), Sucre |
“Joe saved us so many hours of research and planning. His expertise turned our stress into a clear, custom itinerary we could actually enjoy.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Maeve & Martin – 6 Weeks In South America
Planning a trip to South America?
Are you struggling with any of this?
✔ Don’t know where to start planning
✔ Unsure how to pick the best route
✔ Spending hours researching… and still feeling stuck
✔ Want freedom, not a rigid tour
✔ Don’t want to spend $5,000+ on a travel agent
You don’t have to figure it out solo!
I help travellers like you plan custom South America trips that are efficient, affordable, and totally personalised.
7 Weeks In South America Budget Breakdown:
Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a mid-range traveler, or seeking luxury, South America offers options for every travel style.
Below is a budget guide based on three categories: Budget Backpacker, Realistic Budget, and Luxury Traveler.
These estimates cover accommodation, food, transport, and activities.
| Category | Budget Backpacker | Realistic Budget | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Budget | $50 per day | $75 per day | $100 per day |
| Total for 7 Weeks (49 Days) | $2,450 | $3,675 | $4,900 |
| Accommodation | Budget hostels or dorms ($15-$20) | Mid-range hostels or private rooms ($25-$40) | Hotels or boutique stays ($40-$60) |
| Meals | Local markets, street food ($10-$15) | Mix of street food and budget restaurants ($15-$20) | Restaurants, fine dining ($20-$30) |
| Transport & Activities | Buses, free walking tours, basic excursions | Buses, some flights, guided tours, paid activities | Flights, private tours, premium expreiences |
Budget Backpacker ($50/day)
- Accommodation: Stay in budget hostels or dorms ($15–$20 per night).
- Food: Eat at local markets, street vendors, and small eateries ($10–$15 per day).
- Transport & Activities: Rely on buses for long distances, free walking tours, and low-cost or self-guided activities such as hikes and city tours.
Realistic Budget ($75/day)
- Accommodation: Choose mid-range hostels or private rooms in hostels ($25–$40 per night).
- Food: Enjoy a mix of street food and budget restaurants ($15–$20 per day).
- Transport & Activities: Use buses for shorter distances and flights for longer legs. This budget allows for guided tours, entry to national parks, and popular excursions like the Uyuni Salt Flats tour.
Luxury Traveler ($100/day)
- Accommodation: Stay in boutique hotels or private rooms in high-end hostels ($40–$60 per night).
- Food: Dine at quality restaurants and indulge in occasional fine dining ($20–$30 per day).
- Transport & Activities: Fly between major destinations and book private tours or premium experiences, such as personalized Machu Picchu tours or exclusive stargazing tours in the Atacama Desert.
Budget Tips:
Activities: Many destinations offer free or low-cost walking tours. Keep adventure activities to a budget by booking group tours in places like Uyuni or Machu Picchu.
Accommodation: Opt for hostels or budget hotels, particularly in more expensive regions like Patagonia and Santiago.
Transportation: Use overnight buses to save on accommodation. Flights are often necessary, especially between far-off destinations like Patagonia and Iguazu.
