This 3-month South America itinerary includes the countries of Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Colombia. I found all the stops on this South America itinerary intriguing for the curious and adventuresome traveller.
1. Considerations For Planning A 3 Month Itinerary In South America
When planning a 3-month itinerary to South America, it is important to consider:
- How long do you have?
- Do you speak any Spanish? What about Portuguese?
- Do you know which vaccinations you need?
- What is your budget?
- What is the weather like?
- How long does it take to travel between destinations?
- Are you travelling by bus?
- Are you taking any flights? If so do you have exit tickets booked?
- Where is your heart set on exploring?
Whatever type of trip you are looking for, South America will deliver. Remember to leave some room in your itinerary for spontaneity and flexibility.
Read More: Read my post on Proof of Onward Travel and check out Onward Ticket to avoid hassles at any border crossings, especially if you are a nomadic traveller without set entry and exit dates.
Read More: Check out my tips on planning your travels.
Read More: Are you a solo female traveller? Read my article on travel in Solo South America Is It Safe?
2. South America Itinerary 3 Months: Peru
Why I Started in Peru: The starting point of this 3 month South America itinerary was a weather-based decision. It was November and already the start of the rainy season. If I had started in Colombia and worked my way south, I would have been in southern Peru in the height of the wet season. Thus, Peru became the starting point.
I feel like every stop I made in Peru was a highlight on this 3 Month South America Itinerary.
Ollantaytambo, Peru
The altitude is lower in Ollantaytambo, Peru than in Cusco, so it is a good idea to head there first and acclimatize to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
Don’t make this mistake: On the way to Ollantaytambo, I stopped at several sights in the Sacred Valley Chinchero, Moray and the Maras Salt mines. It was a marvellous introduction to Peru except that the altitude at these sites is even higher than Cusco. By the time I arrived in Ollantaytambo I was suffering from altitude sickness.
Ollantaytambo is the perfect place to ease into solo travel in South America. It is a small, easy-to-navigate town, where irrigation canals babble with running water and two massive Inca archaeological sites tower over the town.
I used Ollantaytambo as a base to recover from altitude sickness, gain my confidence in South American solo travel and, of course, take the train to Agua Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Read More: Ollantaytambo Peru | A Traveller’s Guide
Where to Stay in Ollantaytambo Peru
Book A Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
From Ollantaytambo: Book your Machu Picchu Vistadome Round trip Train Ticket and a tour of the Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu, Peru (A Definite Highlight on a South America Itinerary)
A South America travel route through Peru just has to include Machu Picchu and it is easy to get there from Ollantaytambo. Take PeruRail direct to Agua Calientes.
To stand in awe amidst the soaring Andes, shrouded in misty clouds and marvel at the humans who created this Inca citadel is a highlight of any South America itinerary.
Despite the crowds, even in low season, and the rules (you can’t circle back or re-enter to take photos or have another look) soaking up the ruins of Machu Picchu and hanging with the llamas is a memorable experience.
Pro Travel Tips:
- Save time and avoid long lineups by booking your Machu Picchu entry ticket in advance.
- If you are also planning to hike to Huayna Picchu, you must book in advance as there are limited spots each day. Here is a joint entry to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
- Don’t forget to book your round-trip bus transfer from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
- You can also take a full-day guided tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco
- For the adventurers and hikers, book well in advance for treks such as the 8-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Cusco, Peru
The lively city of Cusco, the Inca empire’s ancient capital, brims with steep cobbled streets, historic architecture and antique churches. Today the tourism trappings are overwhelming but somehow the delights of this centuries-old city shine through and it is a mandatory stop any backpacking to South America trip
Built in the shape of a puma, this city will have you constantly out of breath between the hilly streets and the high altitude. It’s the perfect place to be an urban explorer but be prepared to be inundated with ladies offering massages (minimum 25 times a day), to pay for a photo with llamas and to roll your eyes at the McDonald’s in the main square, Plaza de Armas. Peel back the layers and discover the essence of ancient Cusco.
The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where To Stay in Cusco Peru
Book a tour from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, if you haven’t been yet. I heard fabulous things about Humantay Lake but didn’t get there. Will you?
The Sacred Valley, Peru
The Sacred Valley with the Rio Urubamba twisting and turning and the soaring Andes rising on either side is breathtaking. Full of sights worth visiting, purchase the “boleto touristico” (the tourist ticket) which gives a reduced entry fee to multiple sights. Pisac and Ollantaytambo sit in the Sacred Valley along with other Inca sites and villages. Don’t miss Chinchero, Moray and the Maras Salt mines.
I travelled independently to Pisac from Cusco on the local buses and by collectivo. Read about the Pisac ruins and the bustling Pisac market. Or, if you are taking a tour of the Sacred Valley, make sure it includes Pisac!
Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicuna, is a relatively new tourist destination and a must on a 3 month South America itinerary. If you like a little challenge and adventure, plan a trip to Rainbow Mountain! It’s a full-day trip from Cusco and the journey through the Andes is jaw-dropping. My nose was pressed to the window as we passed through minuscule Andean towns and watched llamas grazing on the hillsides. The blizzard on the hike down from the summit was unexpected!
Read up on everything you need to know before your hike to Rainbow Mountain.
Book your tour to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco
Lake Titicaca: the Islands of Uros, Amantani & Taquile
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is definitely worth adding to any South America itinerary. Head to Puno, and from there book either a day trip or an overnight homestay on one of the islands.
If you are looking to stay with a family, read this post on what to expect in a homestay on Amantani Island.
Uros, the closest island to Puno is worth a visit if you only have a short amount of time. Taquile is quite a long boat ride away but much less visited. Read about travelling to both of these islands: Islas Uros and Taquile: Step Back in Time.
Where To Stay in Puno.
Book A Tour: From Puno book a full-day tour to Uros Islands and Taquile, or a half-day tour to the floating Uros Islands, or a 2-day trip to Uros, Amantani, and Taquile.
3. 3 Month South America Itinerary: Border Crossing Peru to Bolivia
Getting from one destination to the next requires careful consideration on a South America travel route. I really wanted to cross the border solo by taking public buses but in the end, decided on Bolivia Hop. The organized bus service called Bolivia Hop picks up passengers in Puno, facilitates the border crossing from Peru into Bolivia and drops everyone off in La Paz.
Book Your Transfer from Puno to La Paz stopping at Copacabana and Isla del Sol.
4. South America Itinerary: Bolivia
Isla del Sol, Bolivia
After visiting Lake Titicaca from the Peru side, Copacabana on the shores of Lake Titicaca was the first stop in Bolivia with Bolivia Hop. There was enough time in this little hippie town to scrounge up a bite to eat and take a boat to Isla del Sol, the birthplace of the sun. Inca ruins, tiny villages, terraced fields and witnessing rural life are all highlights as you hike from one side of the island to the other.
Pro Travel Tip: You can also take a tour to Lake Titicaca, Copacabana, and Isla del Sol from La Paz.
Sucre, Bolivia
I flew from La Paz to Sucre, Bolivia to start Spanish school.
All through my travels in Central and South America, I have enrolled in Spanish language schools and lived with families to enhance the immersion experience.
Sucre was no different. Living in a family compound was a great chance to improve my Spanish, gain a different perspective on life in Bolivia and stay in one place for ten days on this 3 month South America itinerary.
The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where To Stay in Sucre Bolivia
Uyuni, Bolivia
After researching how to book a tour across the Uyuni Salt Flats, I booked my tour in Sucre. There are plenty of tour operators in Uyuni and it is possible to book a tour with a tour operator in Uyuni once you arrive.
The local bus from Sucre to Uyuni is an 8-hour bus ride through very unfamiliar lunar type landscapes. There was absolutely nowhere to go to the bathroom, except a rock at the side of the road which was deemed a bathroom stop. I declined.
I was not overly impressed with Uyuni. I would not recommend lingering in Uyuni on your South America itinerary but simply use it as a starting point for the Salt Flats tour.
3 Month South America Itinerary: Where To Stay in Uyuni
Book your unique visit to the unforgettable Salt Flats from Uyuni. How will you go? On a 3-day Salt Flats and coloured lagoon tour, a Uyuni Salt Flats Luxury Tour or a sunset Salt Flats tour with wine tasting?
The Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
If you have time, this is a must on a South America itinerary. The largest salt flats in the world, the Uyuni Salt Flats, was a non-negotiable for me on this South America travel route. The unique landscape of infinite whiteness, the lack of perspective and standing on an ancient, ocean floor are unforgettable experiences.
It is possible to do a day tour from Uyuni. Choosing a 3 day-2 night tour to cross the Salt Flats and the uninhabited desert and mountainous landscapes that cover the southwest corner of Bolivia is quite the adventure. Geysers, flamingoes, overnight in a salt hotel. Yes, these highlights are all part of the tour. Could backpacking in South America get any better?
Read everything you need to know before you venture on this unforgettable journey.
5. South America Travel Route: Border Crossing Bolivia to Chile
On this part of the 3 month South America itinerary, one has to decide to cross into Chile or return to Uyuni, Bolivia.
On the 3-day 2-night Uyuni Salt Flat Tour, there is an option to be dropped off at the Chilean border. There is a shuttle from Chile that picks you up in Bolivia, facilitates the border crossing into Chile and drives you to San Pedro de Atacama.
Some passengers decided en route that they were not up for the long drive back to Uyuni. The landscapes are outstanding but it is a long, rough ride. At the last minute, they were able to pay and join the group crossing the border.
6. 3 Month South America Itinerary: Chile
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
San Pedro de Atacama is a hub for exploring the Atacama Desert. The town is full of foreign tourists and Chileans exploring their own country. Despite the overabundance of tour operators, San Pedro is a chill and hip little town. Make sure it is on your 3-month itinerary in South America.
From San Pedro, there are incredible landscapes to explore, including one of the clearest night skies in the world. Read about the wondrous things to discover.
Where To Stay in San Pedro de Atacama
Book Your Tours: Don’t miss an astronomical tour or a hike to the Láscar Volcano Summit and definitely don’t miss the El Tatio Geysers!
El Tatio Geysers, Chile
The El Tatio Geysers, the highest geyser field in the world, are a half-day trip from San Pedro de Atacama and well worth the early leaving time.
Santiago, Chile
The price to travel by plane or by bus from San Pedro to Santiago were not significantly different. So I and opted for a flight to Santiago instead of a long bus ride.
Most people pass through Santiago at one point or another on their trip to Chile. Make sure you stay awhile and explore Chile’s capital city.
Read 15 Impressive Things to do in Santiago, Chile. Of course, there are more than 15 things to do in this vibrant city but these 15 will get you started.
The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where to Stay in Santiago Chile
Book A Group Tour to Wine Country for the day or a private tour to Chilean wine country.
Valparaiso, Chile ( A Highlight of The 3 Month South America Itinerary)
Valparaiso is full of stunning street art, historical monuments and funiculars that ease the climb up the steep streets. Valpo, as the locals call it, is a must-see destination. I would rank it as one of the best places to go in South America!
This Ultimate Guide to Valparaiso is a detailed guide on what to see and do in this port city.
Where to Stay in Valparaiso Chile
Pro Travel Tip: If you don’t have time to stay in Valparaiso, it is worth doing a day trip from Santiago.
7. 3 Month South America Itinerary: Border Crossing: Chile to Colombia
Chilling at the airport waiting for my flight, I was completely unprepared when asked by the airline for my proof of onward travel.
Read this post, Proof of Onward Travel: Don’t Make This Mistake, to avoid hassles and use a valid travel hack.
8.South America Itinerary: Colombia
Medellin, Colombia
Medellin is known as a hub for digital nomads. It is also known as the former most dangerous city in the world. Comuna 13 was the most dangerous neighbourhood in the city.
Today the community is rebuilding and carving a new path. Find out more by reading this post: Comuna 13: Why it Should Be on Your Medellin Itinerary
The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where to Stay in Medellin Colombia
Book your Comuna 13 Tour here and a tour of a Coffee Farm here
Guatapé, Colombia
Day trips are a great way to explore a country further and on this 3 month South America itinerary, Guatapé proved that! Guatapé is the perfect day trip from Medellin. This town, full of colourfully painted houses and a lively main square, sits on the shore of a huge artificial lake.
Climb the nearby Piedra del Peñol which is just outside of Guatapé. The bus from Medellin will drop you at “La Piedra.” From Piedra del Peñol, there are plenty of tuk-tuks to take you to Guatapé.
If you are taking the 2-hour public bus to Guatapé, be sure to purchase your return bus ticket when you arrive.
Book Your Organized Tour from Medellin to Guatapé here.
Salento, Colombia
If you have time in Colombia, add Salento to your 3 month South America itinerary. Salento is the perfect place to visit a coffee farm and take a Willy’s jeep out to the Cocora Valley to hike amidst Colombia’s national tree, the wax palm.
Find out all the details right here: Salento Colombia: My Favourite Town in Colombia.
Where to Stay in Salento
The joyous trek through the Cocora Valley – book a guided trek here and a small group tour to a coffee farm here.
Jardin, Colombia (A favourite stop on the 3 Month South America Itinerary)
It is a journey to get to Jardin way up in the Andes Mountains and an unforgettable destination. If you like authentic villages, this one is for you. I say it is a “must-see” on your 3 month South America itinerary.
Here are the details: The 5 Reasons You Just Have to Visit Jardin
Where to Stay in Jardin Colombia
Book your horseback riding tour to a waterfall here.
Santa Marta & Minca, Colombia
From Santa Marta take the bus to Minca. It’s 600 m up in the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s cool (both rustically hip with cooler temperatures), has organic coffee farms, gorgeous birds and stunning views.
Most people travel through Santa Marta as it is the gateway to Tayrona National Park. It’s not really posted anywhere that Tayrona National Park is closed in February. Oops. So wish I had been able to take a day trip like this one.
The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where To Stay in Santa Marta Colombia
Cartagena, Colombia
Another must-see on your South America itinerary is Cartagena. Cartagena is Colombia’s gem sitting on the Caribbean Sea. The UNESCO city is the perfect place to get lost amidst colourful façades on twisting cobblestone streets. Wandering the streets of Getsemani, camera in hand, was one of my favourite things to do in Cartagena.
Read this full guide on Things to do in Cartagena, Colombia: The Take it Slow Guide
Where to Stay in Cartagena Colombia
How about enjoying a Catamaran trip to the Rosario Islands?
This 3 month South America itinerary checked all the boxes. I feel like all of my stops were highlights on this South America itinerary. Every stop was perfect for any curious and adventurous traveller. You’re going to fall in love with South America.
More Travel Info
If you’re travelling as a solo female traveller read my post: Solo Travel in South America | Is it Safe?
Need packing inspiration? I travelled for 3 months with changing temperatures (yes, Rainbow Mountain was cold at the top) and took a carry-on sized suitcase for all my belongings. Read how here: Wondering How to Pack Light? Tips from a Minimalist Traveller
wow. what an amazing itinerary. So many must-see places!!
South America is full of wonderful places to see. You could spend a lifetime exploring the continent!
Wow, amazing photos! I wish i could go right now…
I’ll go with you! Where shall we start? I would happily go back to all 4 countries and explore further afield.
Where would you start?!
This is a totally timely blog post to find. We leave on Wednesday to travel around South America for 2 months. I love some of the sights you visited. Some spots are on our itinerary. And others like Bolivia will need to wait for another trip. It is clear from your blog post that our 2 months will just be a small taste test. We have some of our stops planned. But this will be good for some of the places we plan to wander on our own. I have pinned this and will use it as a reference guide along the way.
I hope you have a marvellous journey. I loved South America and my three months was indeed just a taste also. Where are you starting the trip?
What an incredible journey you had! I am going to add it to my bucket list. I am working hard to get myself bilingual. Right now my Spanish is only okay.
Every bit of Spanish adds to the depth of the journey. I am a solid beginner and had many broken conversations with locals. Being bilingual would have been so great!
Wonderful post! It’s amazing how similar our travels have been through Peru and, of course, Colombia, where we’re currently based in MedellÃn. You’ve given us lots of good info for our future travels to Chile and Bolivia. Thanks for this!
I wish I had known you last year when I was in Medellin for about 6 weeks. I hope you enjoy your future travels in Chile and Bolivia. I feel as though I just scraped the surface in both countries but it was enough of a taste to plan a return journey.
the whole trip looks fantastic, but if I had to pick one country, Bolivia looks beautiful. Great post.
Yes, it really was an amazing trip! All of the countries were unique and spectacular! Bolivia’s landscapes were astonishing!
These countries in South America have been in my sights for sometime. Your journey and insightful information has fueled my desire.
Ah! That is great news! It is an amazing continent to explore!
Looks so stunning! South America looks like such a unique travel destination, Bolivia is one that is really catching my attention.
Bolivia is amazing. The trip across the Salar de Uyuni is unforgettable!
I have always wanted to expand my Spanish. I never considered going to a Spanish Language School and homestay as an anchor for long term travelling. That could be the perfect bridge between time you’re out on the road and time that you want to be resting / stationary. As a writer, I could see how you could use that to catch up on the work you generated from your travels.
I love the homestays. They are quite intense though as all communication is done in the language you are learning. Also, there is plenty of homework to do for your Spanish classes. Plus you want to be exploring the location in which you are staying. So .. as per usual, finding the time to write is a struggle!!! But – I wouldn’t have it any other way. My homestays in Granada, Spain and Antigua Guatemala were also outstanding.
Ooh, pinning this to re-read later! We’ve been talking about South America for our next big trip, and have been looking pretty seriously at Peru and Bolivia. All of this information is so helpful – thank you!
So glad the information is helpful. Peru and Bolivia are fabulous countries to explore.
What an amazing 3-month journey you had visiting all of these wonderful places and experiencing the people and their culture. You are an inspiration to this almost 50 traveler! What was your favourite? I am sure it would be so hard to choose. Bolivia and Peru would be mine.
Thank you, Renee. Each country was unique in its own way and my experiences were so varied. Hard to pick. Loved them all! Would return to each of them in a heart beat!
I am hoping to visit Colombia this year. I had it on my list for last year, but I was a bit worried about the protests going on. You mentioned some other locations in Colombia that I haven’t thought about and may have to consider them now 🙂
Colombia is full of travellers of all ages. It is a wonderful place to explore. Enjoy!
What a great post with a ton of info! Of all the countries you went to, Colombia is my favorite, but Bolivia is high on my travel wish list. Isla del Sol looks amazing, and of course I’d also like to see the salt flats while there. Your suggestion to consider the weather is a great one. I think there’s this common misconception that all of South America is more or less hot all year round, and that is simply not true. In fact, I think almost all the places I’ve been in South America have had comfortably mild temperatures!
Colombia is a wonderful country to explore. I did pull out that squashable down jacket on a few occasions!
What a great travel route! My husband and I were just talking about South American travel, particularly to Colombia. I would love to visit Chile and Peru, and also see Macchu Pichu in real life!
Seeing Machu Picchu was a highlight for sure! That’s one thing I love about travel. You can read about a place but when you are actually standing there, you can feel it and make your own impressions.
You sure packed in a lot to see in 3 months! Wonderful post!
Cheers!
Thank you- it was a wonderful journey. I would love to return and slow it all right down… spending months just living and exploring… (post Covid-19, of course).