Top 5 South American Cities for a Solo Trip

When it comes to picking out a destination for a solo trip, there are many features that people will look for, and in many cases these can vary quite significantly depending on your interests and passions. The most important thing to look for is a destination that offers plenty of things to do, and there is no doubt that South American cities offer plenty of activities and different things that can be enjoyed.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is a city that is famous for its vibrant and exciting cultural scene, and as a city that is known for people coming together to enjoy a good time it is certainly a good destination for the solo traveler. Those who are looking to meet others would do well to book a room in one of the city's hostels, where the communal areas are a great place to meet new people. The city also has plenty of things to do, including hiking up to the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain and people spotting on the Copacabana beach.

For those visiting the city during Carnaval or the New Year celebrations, those are both events not to be missed.

Medellin, Colombia

Colombia's second city is one that has seen significant redevelopment over recent years, and it is now mainly a safe and interesting place to visit. The culture in Medellin is impressive with a range of theater companies and an orchestra, and those looking to learn more about how the locals unwind can join Salsa classes run by one of several Salsa schools that are located in the city. Medellin has also developed the nickname of the City of Sculptures because of the public funded range of public art exhibits that are visible throughout the city, with Plaza Botero home to several of these sculptures.

There is also a historic recreation of an Antioquia village to be found on the top of the Pueblito Paisa hill. 

Buenos Aires, Argentina

The Argentine capital of Buenos Aires is one of the largest cities in South America, and while it is a very varied city, it is also one that is generally very safe for those visiting the city. There are plenty of hostels where people can meet like minded travelers, and the opportunity to explore beautiful areas such as the Recoleta Cemetery and the promenade in Palermo are not to be missed. The city is also home to the largest Gay Pride parade in South America, and cultural events such as food tours of the city and joining a gaucho party are also worth trying.

This city is known for being particularly hilly, and for those who enjoy quirky methods of transport Valparaiso is famous for the range of funicular railways running up the steep streets to take people to the hills behind the main harbor. Stretched around a horseshoe shaped bay, the city is particularly attractive at night, and this is when the great night life really starts to kick in. It is a city that is also known for having a thriving artistic scene, and after seeing the local churches and La Sebastiana, the former home of famed poet Pablo Neruda, there are plenty of events that are regularly held throughout the year.

This charming city is one that has a balance of the old and new, and while many parts have been redeveloped, there are other areas of the city that progress in much the same way as they did a century ago. A short distance outside of Cuenca are the Inca ruins of Ingapirca which was once one of the most important cities in the region, while the hot springs at Banos are a great place to relax and unwind in the mineral pools.

The city also has a lovely riverfront area which has recently been redeveloped, and is a great place to stroll and to enjoy watching the city going by.