South America is home to some of the most interesting cultural traditions, rich aboriginal history and unending natural beauty. Across the continent, the rugged, rural terrain is home to small villages and wide-open spaces ready for adventure and exploration, but plays well against the modern metropolises of growing cities.
For families looking to visit, we have a few suggestions that may help narrow your travel options down, or add to a growing list of must-visit cities.
Maybe not a city, per say, but any list detailing family-friendly locales in South America wouldn’t be complete without the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. Explore the unique, isolated terrain by cruise ship with the family and witness incredible animal and plant life that can’t be found anywhere else. Make it a little more exclusive with a luxury ship option and the family trip can be as sophisticated and comfortable as you need. Get up-close photos of penguins, sea lions, sea turtles and maybe even a Galápagos shark.
Head to a big city already rich in family-friendly activities, dining options and accommodations for the easiest transition into a new country. For those traveling to Argentina, there’s no better entrance than capital city Buenos Aires. With a slew of established hotel brands neatly woven into the fabric of the vibrant city, this locale is great for all ages, even the littlest travelers.

Santiago, Chile. Photo: Luca Roggero | Dreamstime.com
Another great gateway destination for families traveling into a new country, Santiago, Chile, is a must for all travelers, families included. The diverse locale is primed and ready for visitors with a myriad of interests, including shopping, dining, history, architecture, wine tasting and scenery galore.
The sprawling city of Bogotá offers far than meets the eye. The Colombian city offers easy access for travelers coming from near and far, but also offers a surprising mix of cobblestone streets in Old Town, Candelaria; natural beauty and rugged hikes of Quebrada La Vieja; street art tours; seemingly endless option for foodies, from fine dining to local eateries; and a slew of family-friendly attractions. Between the city’s varied history and growing modern attractions and comfort, there’s legitimately something for everyone and a new aspect to explore around every corner. Rent a car or hire a driver and make your way through the city, visiting all the hidden gems and authentic cultural corners.
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Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 22, 2025Where to Hike on New England’s Tallest Mountains
Have your kids ever spent a day hiking along a rocky ridge, looking down on clouds? Or climbed through the forest beside a mountain stream that drops in a series of splashing waterfalls? Or watched the trees grow smaller and smaller as they climb higher, until the forest disappears entirely in a landscape of rocks and tiny alpine flowers? If not, and you love the out-of-doors, your family should travel to New Hampshire’s White Mountains for a hiking vacation.
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Apr 22, 2025Get Up to 100,000 Bonus Hyatt Points When You Glamp This Summer
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Apr 21, 2025Exodus Adventure Travels Announces New Wildlife Trips
Tour operator Exodus Adventure Travels invites family travelers to experience its immersive wildlife journeys around the world, including new itineraries.
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Apr 21, 20255 Things You Can Only Do in Delaware County, New York
More and more family travelers seek immersive experiences hyper-specific to a particular destination, and spots like Delaware County in upstate New York promises activities the whole family can both enjoy and experience nowhere else.
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