Top 10 Best Cities to Visit in South America

Latin America is a treasure trove of vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities. From the colonial charm of Cartagena to the modern bustle of Mexico City, there's something for every type of traveler. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a cultural explorer, or simply someone who loves to discover new places, these cities are must-visit destinations.

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Great news! GigSky has a variety of eSIM cards to meet your needs while traveling through Latin America. 

1. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Known as the "Paris of South America," Buenos Aires is famous for its European-style architecture, rich cultural heritage, and energetic nightlife. The crown jewel of the city is the 19th-century Casa Rosada, the iconic, balconied presidential palace. 

Highlights:

• Recoleta Cemetery: Famous for its elaborate tombstones and the resting place of Eva Perón.
• Teatro Colón: One of the most beautiful opera houses in the world with nearly 2,500 seats.
• La Boca: A colorful neighborhood known for its street art, tango performances, and the Boca Juniors football stadium.

2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, lively beaches, and iconic landmarks. Of course, it’s known for its yearly raucous Carnaval festival, featuring parade floats, and samba dancers in flashy, flamboyant costumes. This celebration of Carnaval is considered the world’s largest. 

Highlights:

• Christ the Redeemer: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World. 
• Copacabana Beach: A world-famous beach known for its lively atmosphere.
• Sugarloaf Mountain: Offers panoramic views of Rio via a scenic cable car ride.

3. Lima, Peru

Lima, the capital of Peru, boasts a rich history, a vibrant culinary scene, and a beautiful coastline. It’s one of South America’s largest cities and has a well-preserved colonial center in the city. 

Highlights:

• Larco Museum: Houses a vast collection of pre-Columbian artifacts.
• Plaza Mayor: The historic heart of Lima, surrounded by colonial buildings.
• Miraflores: A coastal district known for its parks and cliffs.

4. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City combines ancient history with modern living, offering an array of impressive museums and historical sites. Densely populated and at a high altitude (2,240m/7,349ft), the centerpiece of this city is the Templo Mayor, a 13th-century Aztec temple. 

Highlights:

• Zócalo: The central square flanked by the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace.
• Museo Frida Kahlo: Also known as the Blue House, it's the former home of the renowned artist.
• Chapultepec Park: One of the largest city parks in the world, featuring Chapultepec Castle.

5. Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a historic coastal city known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant street life. Its location near the water and its tropical climate make it a popular beach destination – with its white-sand beaches. 

Highlights:

• Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada): A UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets.
• Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: A formidable fortress offering panoramic views.
• Rosario Islands: Perfect for a day trip of snorkeling and relaxation.

6. Havana, Cuba

Havana is famous for its Spanish colonial architecture, vintage cars, and rich cultural scene. Known as the “Key to the New World,” the island served as a crossroads for many throughout the years: colonial powers (Spanish and British), explorers, buccaneers, entertainers, indigenous people and exiles. 

Highlights:

• Old Havana (Habana Vieja): A UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Malecón: A picturesque esplanade along the coast.
• El Capitolio: An iconic building resembling the U.S. Capitol is a 1920s landmark. 

7. Quito, Ecuador

Nestled high in the Andes (2,850m/9,350ft), Quito is known for its well-preserved colonial center and dramatic mountain setting. The city is constructed on the foundations of an ancient Incan city and is a blend of European, Moorish and indigenous architecture and design. 

Highlights:

• Historic Center (Centro Histórico): A UNESCO World Heritage site.
• El Panecillo: A hill with a large statue of the Virgin Mary.
• TelefériQo: A cable car ride offering breathtaking views.

8. Santiago, Chile

Santiago is a dynamic city surrounded by the Andes mountains and is the largest city in Chile. It’s known for modern infrastructure and cultural landmarks – like the neoclassical Palacio de la Real Audiencia (which houses the National History Museum) and the 18th-century Metropolitan Cathedral. 

Highlights:

• Plaza de Armas: The historic center of Santiago.
• Cerro San Cristóbal: A hill with a statue of the Virgin Mary.
• La Moneda Palace: The seat of the President of Chile.

9. Cusco, Peru

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. This high-elevation city (3,399m/11,151ft) was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is now known for archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture.

Highlights:

• Plaza de Armas: The central square flanked by colonial buildings.
• Sacsayhuamán: An ancient Incan fortress.
• Qorikancha: The site of the Incan Temple of the Sun.

10. Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá is a city of contrasts with a mix of modernity and history, known for its cultural institutions and vibrant street art. Sitting at 2,625m/8,612ft, features prominent art museums and a cobbled-stoned center with neoclassical architecture.

Highlights:

• La Candelaria: The historic heart of Bogotá.
• Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): Home to an extensive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
• Monserrate: A mountain with a church and stunning views.

Unique Travel Benefit for LATAM Card Holders

A trip to these beautiful cities just got easier for select Visa card holders! LATAM Visa card holders can roam without roaming charges thanks to GigSky's special offer. Get a 1GB/15-day plan and stay connected in over 125 countries. 

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How to Redeem:

1. Install the GigSky App to check your eligibility.
2. Enter your Visa card number.
3. If your Visa card is eligible, you will see this screen
   

       4. Enter your Visa account details.

        5.Redeem your complimentary world plan using your eligible Visa card.

        6.Download the eSIM and enjoy your data plan.

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For more information on redeeming this offer, check out this video tutorial!

Exploring Latin America has never been more convenient or connected. Whether you find yourself amongst the clouds or down at the beach, GigSky has an eSIM plan to help you stay connected for the entirety of your trip. 

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Ready for your next adventure? Start planning your trip now!