10 Best Ecotourism Destinations in South America for Eco Travellers

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When you are an adventure lover and an empty-nester who values ecotourism, then South America has best ecotourism destinations.

That’s why we’re sharing these unique, beautiful South American ecotourism destinations with you.

They are like heaven on this earth, attracting eco travellers every year because of their beauty.

Read this article below and you’ll get some interesting insights about the best eco-friendly South American travel destinations.

In this article, you’ll get details about best ecotourism destinations in South America, including:

10 Best South American Destinations for Eco-Travellers
1. Patagonia, Chile, And Argentina
2. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
3. Iguazu Falls, Argentina, And Brazil
4. Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
5. Machu Picchu, Peru
6. Salta, Argentina
7. La Paz, Bolivia
8. Chiloé Island, Chile
9. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
10. Isla Margarita, Venezuela
Final Thoughts on Best Ecotourism Destinations
Next Steps

Victoria Gerrard La Crosse WI Shares 10 South American Destinations For Eco-Friendly Travelers

Traveling to the far ends of the earth can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life.

From exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to visiting the exotic cloud forests of Costa Rica, there are a plethora of eco-friendly destinations for travelers seeking out beautiful and unique getaways.

South America is particularly well-suited for green adventurers looking for cultural immersion and awe-inspiring views.

Here are some top destination picks from Victoria Gerrard, La Crosse, WI resident, for eco-friendly travelers to explore in South America:

1) Patagonia, Chile, And Argentina

Straddling Chile and Argentina, this remarkable region of the world is a true paradise for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the raw wilderness.

Home to vast glaciers, imposing mountains, incredible wildlife, and unspoiled nature reserves, Patagonia is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to discover the wonders of South America.

From trekking through breathtaking landscapes to sailing across tranquil pampas, Patagonia offers something for everyone.

2) Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

As one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders, the Galapagos Islands are an unforgettable destination for eco-friendly travelers.

With abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes, it’s a great place to explore the true beauty of South America.

You can rest assured that you’re also taking part in responsible tourism initiatives, too.

From snorkeling with sea turtles to marveling at giant tortoises, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in the Galapagos Islands.

3) Iguazu Falls, Argentina, And Brazil

iguazu falls argentina brazil | Enjoy Travel Life — Igazu Falls straddles Argentina and Brazil

Witnessing the mighty Iguazu Falls is an unforgettable experience.

Spanning Argentina and Brazil, this remarkable natural wonder offers visitors a unique chance to explore one of South America’s most extraordinary sights.

From taking pictures of the falls from different angles to boat rides on the river just below them, it’s a fantastic place to explore.

You’ll thoroughly enjoy while taking in the incredible natural beauty of South America.

4) Amazon Rainforest, Brazil

The Amazon Rainforest is a vast and dynamic ecosystem home to an incredible range of plants and animals.

From spotting rare species of birds to navigating river channels in search of native villages, it’s the perfect destination for eco-friendly travelers.

You’ll be able to get up close and personal with one of the world’s most spectacular natural settings.

From hiking through the jungle to participating in conservation projects, there are plenty of activities for travelers to get involved in while exploring this remarkable region.

5) Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of South America’s most important historical sites.

Perched high in the Andes mountains overlooking the Urubamba Valley, it’s a stunning destination for eco-friendly travelers.

That’s especially true if you’re looking to explore ancient ruins while appreciating spectacular views.

From learning about the region’s fascinating Incan culture to trekking through lush cloud forests, Machu Picchu is an unforgettable destination that shouldn’t be missed.

But you also want to keep your eyes out for some of the most beautiful Peruvian plants and flowers!

6) Salta, Argentina

salta argentina | Enjoy Travel Life — Salta’s stunning landscape in Argentina

Salta is a unique destination in Argentina for eco-friendly travelers.

Its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes make it the perfect place to explore South America in an authentic way.

From visiting local artisan markets to trekking through the Puna desert, Salta offers travelers a truly unique experience.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or to soak up some Argentinean culture, Salta is an excellent destination for eco-friendly travelers.

7) La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz is the perfect destination for eco-friendly travelers looking to explore one of South America’s most vibrant cities.

La Paz has something for everyone, from exploring bustling markets and colonial architecture to discovering traditional Bolivian culture.

Its majestic mountain scenery and colorful streets make it a great place to explore and discover South America’s culture, history, and beauty.

8) Chiloé Island, Chile

Chiloé Island is a stunning destination for eco-friendly travelers looking to experience the best Chilean culture in an untouched setting.

Its picturesque villages, rugged coasts, and traditional horse-drawn carriage rides make it the perfect destination to explore while appreciating Chilean culture.

From visiting traditional churches and exploring local cuisine, there’s always something new and exciting to discover on Chiloé Island.

9) Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder!

And, it offers eco-friendly travelers a chance to explore the best of Chilean nature.

With its snow-capped mountains, pristine glaciers, and crystalline lakes, it’s a fantastic destination for adventure seekers.

There, you will experience some of South America’s most beautiful scenery.

Whether hiking on foot or taking in the views from above by helicopter, Torres del Paine National Park is an unforgettable destination to experience.

10) Isla Margarita, Venezuela

isla margarita venezuela | Enjoy Travel Life — Isla Margarita in Venezuela

Isla Margarita is a tropical paradise for eco-friendly travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs make it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

At the same time, you’ll be taking in some of South America’s most beautiful scenery.

Whether you’re snorkeling, sailing, or just lying around on the beach, Isla Margarita is an idyllic destination for eco-friendly travelers.

In fact, you will experience it as a true taste of paradise!

Final Thoughts on Best Ecotourism Destinations

South America is a vast continent with amazing travel opportunities for eco-friendly travelers.

From exploring ancient ruins to discovering vibrant cultures, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, these ten destinations suggested by Victoria Gerrard, La Crosse, WI resident, offer the perfect opportunity to explore South America in an environmentally conscious way.

About Jackie Gately, editor-IN-CHIEF

I'm Jackie Gately, your travel confidante and the creative force behind Enjoy Travel Life, awarded the "Best Casual-Luxury Lifestyle Blog (USA)" in Travel and Tourism by LUXlife Magazine for four consecutive years.

With 25 years of published expertise, I'm a seasoned writer, editor, and photographer curating inspiring travel guides and lifestyle tips for empty nesters. I hope to kindle your spirit of exploration, encouraging you to overcome obstacles and turn your dreams into reality.

Learn to minimize your pre-travel angst and maximize the joy of exploration with insights from my experiences. Let's make every adventure a celebration of this exciting phase of life! 

Follow my social channels for more inspiration.

Next Steps

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