12 Visa-Free South American Countries for US Passport Holders
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South American countries requiring US passport holders to obtain a visa include Bolivia, Suriname, and Venezuela, so don’t head to any of these without ensuring you can enter. The good news, though, is that the following countries in South or Central America don’t ask US passport holders to get a visa before visiting. Here’s the full lowdown on what each nation offers the adventurous traveler.
Argentina
Argentina is a favored foodie and wine destination known for rich reds and succulent meats. Other reasons to head to Argentina include the incredible Iguazu Falls, the southern plateau of Patagonia, and Latin dance. Like some other South American countries, Argentina is also a famous footballing nation.
Travel Tips
- Visit Iguazu Falls: Get a day pass ticket to see the falls in Parques Nacionales de Argentina for $130.
- Take a Tango Class: Sign up for a tango class in Buenos Aires for $37.
Read also: Visa-Free Countries for Americans
Brazil
The colorful Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro could keep visitors happily occupied for days on end, not least during carnival. But venture beyond the city limits to discover breathtaking beaches, fascinating architecture and history, and the mighty Amazon rainforest. Vibrant Sao Paolo can also give Rio a run for its money in partying.
Travel Tips
- Visit the Christ the Redeemer Statue: Buy a train ticket for $26 to visit the Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado Mountain.
- Explore Rio’s Lapa Neighborhood: Visit Lapa at night to see the Selarón Steps and enjoy the lively nightlife.
Read also: Caribbean Destinations To Visit Without Visa
Chile
Chile is a bucket-list destination, with Easter Island being one of the country’s main draws. Other Chilean highlights include Torres del Paine National Park and the Atacama Desert. It’s the ideal place for a road trip, with looming volcanoes, tranquil lakes, desert landscapes, and rolling vineyards to see en route.
Travel Tips
- Stargaze in the Atacama Desert: Book an astronomy tour to observe stars and galaxies with a specialist for $39.
- Tour the Casablanca Valley: Visit Mar Vineyard in the Casablanca Valley for a wine-tasting tour costing $58.
Read also: Tropical Destinations to Discover
Colombia
Colombia offers the fashionable city of Bogotá, the majestic Andes, and fascinating archaeological sites. Of course, visitors can also delve deeper into the country’s coffee culture by visiting a plantation. Add to all that the rugged Caribbean coastline, and you have a destination offering something for everyone.
Travel Tips
- Take a Coffee Tour: Visit the Hacienda Coloma Coffee Plantation and learn about Colombia’s coffee culture for $13.
- Visit Gold Museum: Explore Bogotá’s Gold Museum for $1 from Tuesday to Saturday, with free admission on Sundays.
Read also: Underrated Tropical Destinations
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is probably the number one South American destination for wildlife lovers. Head here, and you can see squirrel monkeys, sloths, scarlet macaws, and much more. Costa Rica is abundant in tumbling waterfalls, towering volcanoes, tropical rainforests, and breathtaking beaches.
Travel Tips
- Visit Manuel Antonio National Park: Explore the park’s beaches and wildlife for $18.
- Explore Arenal Volcano: Hike around Arenal Volcano and explore trails for $1.80.
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Read also: Amazing Natural Wonders to See in Europe
Ecuador
Ecuador is packed with appealing places to visit. There’s the Galápagos Islands, which are paradise for anyone who’s into wildlife in a big way. You can also gaze at well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture in Quito, discover the Andean highlands, or delve into the Amazon jungle.
Travel Tips
- Explore Quito’s Historic Center: Walk through Quito‘s UNESCO-listed historic center and admire colonial buildings like La Compañía de Jesús.
- Book a Tour to Cotopaxi Volcano: Join a $65 tour to explore Cotopaxi Volcano, visit Limpiopungo Lagoon, and admire the beauty of Quilotoa Lagoon.
Read also: Warm Holiday Destinations in February
French Guiana
French Guiana is situated on South America’s northeast coast and is covered in lush rainforest. The capital of Cayenne also offers Creole architecture, the remains of Fort Cépérou, a palm-lined main square, and colorful markets. For a flavor of South American beach life, head to the Atlantic coast beaches of the Rémire-Montjoly locale.
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Travel Tips
- Relax at Rémire-Montjoly Beach: Spend a day on this palm-lined beach great for swimming and sunbathing.
- Visit the Salvation Islands: Explore the historical prison sites and enjoy scenic ocean views.
Read also: Cheap Beach Destinations in Europe
Guyana
Guyana is awash with both British and Caribbean culture. Georgetown, the capital, is packed with beautiful colonial buildings, and you can also shop for fresh local produce at Stabroek Market. Guyana is also a top destination for cricket fans or anyone who wants to listen to calypso music.
Travel Tips
- Visit Georgetown Botanical Gardens: Explore local flora and wildlife in the botanical gardens.
- Visit Guyana National Museum: Learn about Guyana’s history and culture for free.
Read also: Top Tropical Destinations To Add to Your Bucket List
Nicaragua
The Republic of Nicaragua is the biggest of the Central American countries and sits between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Its landscape is dotted with volcanoes, lakes, and some of the most appealing beaches on the continent. You can also admire Spanish colonial architecture in Granada or go to the islands for birdwatching.
Travel Tips
- Explore the Ometepe Islands: Take a ferry to Ometepe Island for $7 and explore its volcanic landscapes and wildlife.
- Visit Playa Maderas: Head to Playa Maderas for surf lessons starting at $30.
Read also: Hidden Beaches in the Caribbean
Paraguay
Unlike other Central and South American destinations, don’t expect to find lovely beaches in landlocked Paraguay. Instead, local attractions include the capital, Asunción’s fine historic architecture, and a clutch of top-notch museums. Though there’s no coastline, the terrain is diverse, meaning you can explore swamps, scrubland, savanna, and subtropical forests.
Travel Tips
- Explore the National Pantheon of the Heroes: Visit this historical monument for free and learn about Paraguay’s past.
- Tour the Museo del Barro: Admire local and indigenous art at this museum for free.
Read also: Top UNESCO Heritage Sites to Visit
Peru
Peru is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. Machu Picchu in the Andes is, of course, a bucket list must for many. But do venture further afield, if you can, to encounter pre-colonial artwork and colonial buildings in Lima. You can also experience the Amazon rainforest in Peru, explore the Sacred Valley, or enjoy fabulous food in Cusco.
Travel Tips
- Tour the Nazca Lines: Fly over the mysterious ancient geoglyphs for $120.
- Join a Cooking Class in Cusco: Take a class to cook Peruvian dishes, craft cocktails, and explore San Pedro Market to taste local flavors like Picarones for $68.
Read also: Exotic Beaches for Your Bucket List
Uruguay
From lively Plaza Independencia at the social and cultural heart of Montevideo to sunkissed South Atlantic beaches, it’s hard to understand why Uruguay is relatively off the tourist radar. Many steakhouses are in the capital, reflecting the country’s thriving beef industry. Fine colonial architecture also lines the streets of Colonia and Montevideo.
Travel Tips
- Enjoy Uruguayan Cuisine: Try chorizo rib-eye, flan, and blood sausages at La Pulpería.
- Visit Mercado del Puerto: Try asado and churrasco at this lively market in Montevideo.
Read also: Hidden Beaches Around the Globe
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