South America is the fourth largest continent in the world and is ideal for exploration. The countries in South American offer lively culture, adventure, and amazing food. The people are passionate, friendly, and open to sharing their way of life with travelers.

Millions of travelers venture through the continent’s 12 countries each year to experience its jungles, rainforests, and waterfalls.

In fact, Angel Falls in Venezuela has the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall. South America is also home to the Amazon River (largest river), Andes Mountain (longest mountain range), the Amazon (largest rainforest), and the Atacama Desert (driest non-polar spot on earth).

Considering all that South America has to offer, it is very affordable to travel this continent.

Here are 8 affordable trips to take on the South American continent:

Bolivia And Argentina

Traveling to Bolivia and Argentina will expose you to the authentic culture of Latin America. When here, you must visit the Atacama Desert which is the driest place on earth. You’ll be able to see flamingoes bathing in mineral lakes!

Visiting the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia is also a must. If you crave architectural aesthetics while traveling, Buenos Aires, Argentina is the city for you. Not only will you devour delicious foods, but you’ll also be able to check out the impressive markets in La Paz.

Patagonia

Patagonia is located at the southernmost tip of South America and has forests, glaciers, and lakes surrounded by islands. Travel to the national parks in the northern lake districts of Argentina and Chile. For a bit of adventure, go horseback riding around the glaciers and fjords.

Guyana

Many people think Guyana is part of the West Indies but it is actually located in South America. Guyana borders Brazil and Venezuela and has a strong Caribbean influence.

Head to the Iwokrama Rainforest for a chance to spot jaguars and to experience Kaieteur Falls, the world’s highest free-falling waterfall.

Georgetown, the colonial capital city is also necessary to visit while in Guyana.

Brazil’s Iguazu Falls

The Iguazu River flows through Brazil and Argentina and is filled with fascinating wildlife. You can fly to the falls from Sao Paulo or Rio and feel the midst from the waterfall gently grace your face.

Argentina And Chile

These two countries are perfect for the traveler that loves style, culture, and cuisine. You can go on a wine tour in Santiago while taking in the views of its snow-capped mountains and lively markets.

Casablanca Valley in Chile is the fastest growing wine region. Head to Buenos Aires for a mix of European and Latin culture.

Brazil’s Amazon Rainforest

If you take an eco-friendly river cruise, traveling through the Amazon River becomes a dream. Canoe trips will allow you to get up close and personal with wildlife. You’ll be able to see monkeys, piranhas and more in the Amazon Rainforest.

Paraguay

Traveling through Paraguay is ideal for the traveler who thrives off of adventure. It’s not a country filled with tourists, but instead, you’ll find quiet colonial towns, plenty of adventure, and lakes

Paraguay is an interesting country with the subtropical Atlantic forest in the east and dry wildlife on the opposite end of the country.