The 6 Most Underrated Cities in South America

The 6 Most Underrated Cities in South America
1. Montevideo

Montevideo may be one of the most popular destinations in Uruguay but not many travelers visit the country of Uruguay at all.

Just a short and relatively easy jaunt from Buenos Aires, it's an opportunity to visit a new culture and it only requires an overnight visit at most.

2. Canoa, Ecuador

Everyone knows about Montanita as the place to party on the Ecuadorian coast. It's home to some of the best surfing in South America and the biggest parties. However, the party scene is great for a night or two but can get out of hand pretty easily.

3. Salta, Argentina

Argentina is most well-known for the tango and nightlife in Buenos Aires as well as the exotic lure of Patagonia.

But Argentina is one of the largest countries in the world and the landscape is so diverse. The northwestern region of Argentina is often overlooked and yet Cordoba is easily accessible by air from Buenos Aires or by a long bus ride.

4. Popayan, Colombia

Colombians are known for their friendliness and a contagious spirit that encourages you to dance all night long. Aside from the clubs in Bogota you can find a much quieter experience in the south east of Colombia, in Popayan.

5. Cajamarca, Peru

While Peru is likely the most popular country in South America, most tourists never venture beyond Lima, Machu Picchu and sometimes Arequipa.

There are so many great things to do in Northern Peru and yet very few international travellers venture north of Lima. Yet speak to Peruvians and many will tell you one of their favourite holidays is in the north in Cajamarca.

6. San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Despite being one of the most spectacular places in South America. The Atacama salt flats continue to be one of the most under visited sites to visit in South America.

In the most northern parts of Chile, many backpackers leave Arequipa and head straight to Bolivia to visit Salar de Uyuni and take the ubiquitous photos every other traveler has.