The Most Beautiful Places in South America, According to Time Out.
South America is a continent of breathtaking landscapes, ancient wonders, and natural marvels. Recently, **Time Out** updated its list of the **world’s most beautiful places**, and three stunning South American destinations made the cut.
From the lost ruins of an Incan city to vast salt flats and a colossal glacier, these spots showcase the continent’s unparalleled beauty. Let’s dive into these must-visit locations.
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## **1. Choquequirao, Peru (8th Place)**
Often called **Machu Picchu’s sister site**, **Choquequirao** is an ancient Incan city perched high above Peru’s Apurímac River. Unlike its famous sibling, this archaeological gem sees far fewer visitors, offering a more secluded and mystical experience.
- **What to expect**:
- Terraced farming ruins
- Ceremonial halls and chambers
- Ancient llama artwork carved into stone
- Sweeping mountain views
Its name translates to **“Cradle of Gold”** in Quechua, and while the gold may be long gone, the site’s grandeur remains.
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## **2. Altiplano & Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia (14th Place)**
Bolivia’s **Altiplano** is a high-alt plateau in the Andes, home to some of the most surreal landscapes on Earth. The highlight? The **Salar de Uyuni**, the world’s largest salt flat.
- **Highlights**:
- **Laguna Verde**: A striking turquoise lake with a backdrop of volcanic peaks.
- **Laguna Colorada**: A pink-hued lagoon filled with flamingos.
- **Salar de Uyuni**: In winter, a thin layer of water turns the flats into a **giant mirror**, reflecting the sky perfectly.
As Time Out contributor **SJ Armstrong** described, the shifting colors and vast emptiness make this place feel otherworldly.
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## **3. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina (38th Place)**
Located in **Los Glaciares National Park**, the **Perito Moreno Glacier** is a colossal river of ice that stretches 30 kilometers long.
- **Why it’s special**:
- One of the few glaciers in the world that’s **still growing**.
- Massive chunks of ice **calve off** into the lake with thunderous cracks.
- You can **hike on the glacier** or view it from nearby walkways.
As **Eleanor Hughes** of Time Out Travel put it: *“It’s not just the sight of the glacier that’s astounding, but also the sound.”*
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## **Final Thoughts**
South America’s beauty is as diverse as it is dramatic. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, wandering across salt deserts, or standing in awe of a moving glacier, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences.
Want more travel inspiration? Check out **[Time Out’s full list of the world’s most beautiful places](https://www.timeout.com/travel/most-beautiful-places-in-the-world)**.
### **Stay Updated!**
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Have you visited any of these places? Share your experiences in the comments!
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*This blog post is inspired by Time Out’s original article. For more details, visit [their website](https://www.timeout.com).*
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