La Boca’s Caminito? Christ the Redeemer? Machu Picchu? South America has no shortage of marquee tourist attractions.
So many so, it’s easy to forget that hidden behind all those picture-perfect postcards (and long lines of iPad-wielding visitors) are a ton of lesser known -- but equally spectacular -- spots flying (mostly) under the tourist radar.
From beautiful beaches and “bottomless” volcanos to salt flats and artist villas, here is the one most underrated attraction in each South American country.
SEE ALSO: The perfect day traveling the world's most dangerous country
Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina
Before you read another word, take a careful look at the picture above. Recognize the silhouette of those perfect peaks? No? Perhaps you’re wearing them right now, you know, maybe on your stylish black fleece. Hint, hint. Okay, fine, you win -- it’s Patagonia, as in the clothing brand. Yes, the mountains are the inspiration behind the logo.
And even though Mount Fitz Roy is apparently one of the toughest mountains in the world to climb, there are a bunch of easy-to-moderate treks in the area so you can still earn/enjoy the spectacular views.
Baia do Sancho, Brazil
The principal beach on the 21-island Brazilian archipelago of Fernando de Noronha consistently ranks as the best beach in the world. How is it underrated then, you ask? Simple -- no rating does this place justice. It’s UNESCO-protected and the Brazilian government restricts the number of tourists allowed on. So if you’re reading this while relaxing on this Brazilian beauty, consider yourself privileged.
Laguna Colorada, Bolivia
In your quest to get to the world’s largest salt flat (and this eerie railroad graveyard) and snap that one perfect perspective-bending photo of you jumping or “holding” your friends or whatever, don’t overlook this blood red lake on the Bolivian altiplano. Also: flamingos call the plateau home. So, you you should also take a picture of them too.
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