The South American countries have advantages that make them attractive to tourists choosing the right destination for their trip. The continent has virtually every climatic zone, from equatorial and tropical to Antarctic glaciers. These change inversely from north to south (the further south the colder it is).
There are 12 countries in South America, and the region also includes three independent territories, two of which are island territories.
Countries in South America
Updated: 10/16/2023.
| # | Country | Capital | Area, ㎢ | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buenos Aires
|
2.8M
|
45.4M
|
|
| 2 | Sucre
|
1.1M
|
11.7M
|
|
| 3 | Brasília
|
8.5M
|
212.6M
|
|
| 4 | Santiago
|
756.1K
|
19.1M
|
|
| 5 | Bogotá
|
1.1M
|
50.9M
|
|
| 6 | Quito
|
276.8K
|
17.6M
|
|
| 7 | Georgetown
|
215K
|
786.6K
|
|
| 8 | Asunción
|
406.8K
|
7.1M
|
|
| 9 | Lima
|
1.3M
|
33M
|
|
| 10 | Paramaribo
|
163.8K
|
586.6K
|
|
| 11 | Montevideo
|
181K
|
3.5M
|
|
| 12 | Caracas
|
916.4K
|
28.4M
|
Tourism in South America
Tourism in South America is a lucrative industry for many economies. However, these countries some are geographically and socially diverse and will not suit every tourist. The most popular countries to visit on the list are:
- Ecuador: Fever inoculation is recommended. Attractions: The Galapagos Islands and many natural parks. There is not a large influx of tourists, so prices are reasonably affordable.
- Uruguay is a visa-free country, which is great for a beach holiday. However, there are virtually no historical or other natural attractions.
- Brazil and Argentina: most countries citizens do not need a visa to visit. Both countries are popular with tourists in winter, when the beach season in South America arrives. Crime rates are high in major cities and tourist centres, so precautions should be taken.
- Among the richest countries on the continent in terms of per capita income is Chile: natural attractions abound (Easter Island among them).
When planning a holiday in South America, it's a good idea to learn a few phrases in Spanish. This comes in handy everywhere except Brazil, where Portuguese is considered the official language. High crime rates make it a good idea not to bring expensive video equipment and other gadgets. Also plan for the high season (like the famous Brazilian Carnival), where prices and tourist numbers can be exorbitant.