South America is a land of such diverse cultures and widespread landscapes. If you are someone who has visited it before, I am sure you would still be in awe of how majestic the landscapes are. If you are mesmerized by the ever-famous Machu Pichu and Rio de Janeiro, imagine visiting many more beautiful but undiscovered places in South America. Many hidden gems in South America are only inhabited by locals, and they could be more popular among tourists. The lower tourist influx is also why the places are not commercialized and retain their native essence.  So, if you plan on visiting South America and don't want to go to the famous tourist spots, we have listed the top ten hidden gems that you can enjoy on your next trip.

1. Chimborazo, Ecuador

Chimborazo is where you will see the landscape turning from rocky mountain to snow-covered and then green plains where you might spot Vicunas, all within a few hours of hike. It is an inactive volcano and the highest mountain in Ecuador. You can either hike up the hill or go in a car. The hike downhill is more accessible, but going up can be challenging if you are new to hiking. If you are going for the first time, go with a tour guide instead.

2. Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil

Imagine a desert; you have clear blue lagoons in those sandy dunes. Does it sound unreal? It also sounded unreal until I visited this hidden gem of a place in Brazil. It is an excellent retreat from the scorching Brazilian sun and the desert. The best time to see it is from July to September when the lagoons are in full glory. Lençóis Maranhenses is a fantastic retreat; you can enjoy the place further by visiting the town and cherishing the local culture.

3. Sandoval Lake, Peru

Sandoval Lake is the best place if you are looking for a peaceful retreat away from the city buzz. It is in the middle of Tambopata National Reserve in Peru. The lake has many routes, but the canoe is the best. You get to enjoy the serene landscape on the way.

4. Cano Cristales, Colombia

Cano Cristales is where rivers run in different red, blue, green, and yellow hues. The visual it creates is an out-of-this-world experience, and that's why it is also known as the river that ran from paradise. The way the river flows to form an array of colours like a rainbow is a sight worth seeing.

But the river is not the only thing here. The natural biodiversity and cascading waterfalls add to the scenery, making it the perfect place for nature lovers.

5. Marble Caves, Chile

Another hidden wonder of South America is the marble caves. Yes, you heard it right. These caves have intricate patterns of layers and swirls created over the years by water waves repeatedly crashing on them. The inner swirls of blue and white create a beautiful pattern over stones and walls. This truly is a sight to behold.

6. Guatape, Colombia

If you are looking for the perfect getaway spot in South America, Guatape in Colombia is ideal. Turquoise lakes and islands surround it, and it is just a short distance from Medellin. The town has colourful houses and narrow alleyways, which give the city an illusion of a maze. You can climb a rock mountain, El Penol, or take a boat ride with the locals. From there, you might also spot the famous Drug Lord Pablo Escobar's mansion.

7. Pantanal, Brazil

Do you want to know of a place equally good for wildlife as the Amazon? Well, Pantanal in Brazil is one such wetland. It spreads all across Brazil and even to Paraguay and Bolivia. You will find a lot of animals there, specifically capybaras, macaws, anteaters, and jaguars.

You can get there by taking a flight to Campo Grande in Brazil, from where you can rent a car and then move further either on your own or with a travel planner.

8. Galapagos National Park, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are relatively common, and around 97% of this island is covered by the Galapagos National Park. So, you must be thinking what is so hidden about this famous spot. You get a small expedition vessel that takes a limited number of passengers to this isolated part of the island. There, you will see some exotic fauna of this island, which visitors don't usually visit.

9. Cocora Valley, Colombia

Who would've thought hiking among palm trees would be possible? Cocora Valley in Columbia is home to the world's tallest wax palm trees, up to 60 meters tall!

Cocora Valley is next to Salento, with coffee plants and vibrant houses. You can have accommodation in Salento and go for a hike in Cocora. If you have enough time, we suggest you go further up the meadows because the viewpoint is worth any other sight.

10. Kaieteur Falls, Guyana

Lastly, we have Kaieteur Falls in the heart of Guyana. The water falls from a height of 226 meters and dives into the Potaro River. This waterfall is no less than a marvel of nature. The waterfall is so strong that you'd be soaked wet from a distance. So, make sure you have a waterproof jacket at hand.

Bottom Line

South America is so rich in natural beauty that every time you visit it, you are taken aback, but these places are beyond spellbinding. Part of the reason is that they are still untouched by commercialization, and each landscape is a telltale of its heritage. When you visit South America this time, go to these places, and you will feel that the joy of finding an undiscovered place is unmatched. So, step away from the clout, interact with the locals, and discover the charm of these hidden gems. You might find even better places than these. If so, do let us know!