The Best Backpacking Destinations in South America

Medellín, Colombia

Nancy Brown / Getty Images

 

History, salsa, and a strong digital nomad presence make Medellín one of the most sought-after destinations in Colombia, especially for backpackers wanting low-cost worthwhile activities. Learn salsa dancing at free meetups in the parks or head to the bar Son Havana and pay a small cover for a lesson. Take pictures at Plaza Botero with Botero’s famous statues of plump women and fat cats. Order fresh-squeezed juices, filling arepas, or sample fruits from street vendors.

 

The metro line (the only one in all of Colombia) is cheap and connects to cable cars that provide 360-degree views of the city’s insanely steep hills. For nightlife, dance at El Poblado’s rooftop bars or drink beer on the streets by Lleras Park with locals. El Polado has plenty of hostels and is also one of the most centrally located, safest neighborhoods to stay in. Finally, to learn more about Medellín’s complicated history  (including narco trafficking), spend a few hours at Museo Casa de la Memoria.

Cuenca, Ecuador

Thomas Janisch / Getty Images

 

The cobblestone streets of Cuenca’s historic center offer plenty of hostels alongside New and Old Cathedrals with iconic domes, all above the Tomebamba River. Framed by green spaces and walking trails, bars with locally micro-brewed beer can be found throughout the city, as well as restaurants serving some of the country’s best soups, like caldo de bolas, made with plantains and beef dumplings. If you take a 10-minute taxi ride, there are several spas that offer mud baths and hot spring pools for soaking for just $12. Other activities outside the city center include hiking the green valleys of Parque Nacional Las Cajas and swinging out over the city at Mirador Turi’s makeshift swing.