One of the best experiences one can enjoy while alive is, of course, travelling around the world. It does a whole lot of things to you: it opens your eyes to new cultures and traditions, you get to taste new foods, and also learn new ways of life that are different from what you know already.
Among all the regions of the world, South America is one continent that has so many breathtaking landscapes. The people are diverse and rich in traditions.
You think of the Amazon rainforest, the mountains, the beaches, there’s just so much going on in South America.
However, one of the biggest issues so many people trying to travel to South America have encountered is the visa process. For a lot of people, when they remember that getting a visa practically involves filling long forms, paying this fee or that, waiting for approval, and getting rejected in some situations, they get really distracted from exploring some really amazing places.
Thankfully, there are a lot of countries you can actually visit in South America without having any need for a visa, although it strongly depends on the country you are coming from.
Through visa-free access, travelling is automatically made cheaper and simpler. You get way more time to explore instead of worrying about visas.
This article is going to show us some of the best South American countries you can visit visa-free.
We will try and explain to you what visa-free travel actually means. We are also going to have a look at some of the most beautiful destinations like Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and so many others.
So, if your dream has always been about travelling to South America, you do not need to get worried about the stress that comes with applying for a visa.
What is Visa-Free Travel?
Before we go into the list of countries, we need to be sure you have a better understanding of what visa-free travel actually means.
When a country allows a traveller from a particular nation to come into their own country, it is called visa-free. What this simply means is that you do not need to apply for a visa before coming to their country.
Instead, you will be allowed to stay for a particular period, usually around 30 to 180 days, with only your passport.
Visa-free travel allows you to easily save both time and money. For instance, instead of you spending weeks filling out some forms and paying fees here and there, all you have to do is simply pack your bag, book your ticket, and fly to the country with just your passport.
However, it does not mean that there are no requirements for you to meet. Most visa-free countries still expect you to have:
- A valid passport that has at least about six months before it will expire.
- Proof of return or onward travel.
- Enough evidence that you have sufficient funds that will cover your stay in the country.
- In some situations, proof of hotel bookings or a host invitation.
Another point you should know is that having visa-free travel is actually not the same for everyone.
The probability of you enjoying visa-free travels will largely hinge on your nationality. For context, so many citizens of many Latin American and European countries usually enjoy visa-free access into most countries in South America.
Asia and Africa are likely to face stricter requirements, although some South American countries are very much open for tourists from different parts of the world, and they usually provide visa-free access or, in some situations, visa on arrival.
Now that you’ve understood this point, we believe that it is going to help you avoid surprises at the airport.
You should always check the latest requirements for your country’s citizenship before you start travelling, although knowing the list of visa-friendly South American destinations would be the perfect headstart and we’ll discuss it in the next chapter.
1. Brazil
Brazil is the largest country in South America. It is also one of the most exciting destinations in South America that does not stress you much with visas. Brazil is never boring.
There’s so much going on in the country: Carnival festival, samba music, the football culture in the country is one of the best in the world no wonder they are 5-time FIFA World Cup winners.
The Christ Redeemer Statue in Rio de Janeiro is also in Brazil. Every year, this country attracts millions of tourists. The country is very large and never boring to be in.
If you are an adventure lover, visiting the Amazon rainforest could spark a whole new experience in you. You could easily explore the wildlife and rivers.
There are some plants in Brazil that you cannot find in any other part of the world. For beach lovers, Copacabana or Ipanema in Rio is absolutely the right place to be.
For those in love with history and culture, you should visit cities like Salvador. It still holds very strong African influences, especially in its music, food, and traditions.
For those looking for visa-free access, Brazil is a very welcoming place. The locals are lovely. Many travellers from European countries, North America, and some parts of Asia and Africa can easily enter Brazil without having to apply for a visa beforehand. In most cases, it usually lasts from 30 to 90 days, although it’s very likely to depend on your country.
Brazil has recently simplified entry into the country by introducing e-visas, which happen to be for citizens of some countries that still need authorization. This helps make travelling much easier.
So, if you have plans of visiting South America, Brazil is a no-brainer.
2. Argentina
Argentina is another country that has been very attractive for visa-free travel. Argentina is known as the land of Tango. The country has so many breathtaking landscapes.
The capital city of Argentina is Buenos Aires. It is usually compared to major European cities because of how stylish the architecture is, as well as the culture and nightlife.
One thing many tourists love about this country is their food, most especially the famous Argentine steak and Malbec wine.
For those who love nature, you are definitely going to find Argentina really fascinating. The country is home to Patagonia, which happens to be a region filled with mountains and glaciers.
The area also has hiking trails that have attracted millions of adventurers from different parts of the world. The Iguazu Falls, which is shared between Brazil and Argentina, is probably one of the most beautiful and aesthetically pleasing waterfalls the world has ever seen.
A visit to Argentina without seeing the Iguazu Falls is probably incomplete.
With regard to visa policy, Argentina usually allows citizens from different countries to come without a visa, especially if it’s for short stays or tourism.
Passport holders from most countries in Europe, the UK, and some Asian and Latin American countries are allowed to stay up to 90 days in the country without a visa. Just like Brazil, they have also introduced a very simplified online system for certain types of visitors.
Argentina has a very unique blend of both modern city life and natural beauty. Their openness to visa-free access has made them one of the best South American countries to visit and explore. You should take advantage of the opportunity.
3. Chile
Chile is one of the most unique countries that is located in South America. It has boundaries on the western edge with the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountains on the other side. Its wine region is very popular.
It has very beautiful landscapes and so many outdoor adventures to explore. The capital of Chile is Santiago. It is a modern city that comes with really great museums, shopping centers, and other cultural spots.
Many tourists who visit the country usually tour the Atacama Desert. This is the driest desert in the world. Chile is also one of the safest and probably the most stable countries in South Americaanother reason why many international visitors are attracted to the country.
4. Colombia
Over the years, Colombia has grown so rapidly that it has become one of the most exciting destinations in South America. If you are a traveller who is excited about visiting a place with a mix of urban life, culture, and adventure, Colombia is the place for you to be.
So many visitors from places including the U.S., U.K., EU, and most of Africa and Asia are allowed to enter Colombia visa-free and stay up to 90 days. The country’s diversity is another reason why so many people are attracted to this South American giant.
The capital city is Bogotá, a city with so much history and museums. For those who love going to the beach, Cartagena, located along the Caribbean coast, has so many stunning islands nearby, like Isla Barú and the Rosario Islands.
Nature lovers will also fall in love with Colombia. The country has the lush Amazon rainforest, many coffee plantations, and mountain treks like Cocora Valley, which happens to be home to the tallest palm trees in the world. Through visa-free entry, it becomes easy for you to plan your long stay here. We assure you’ll love it.
5. Ecuador
Ecuador is another South American country you should consider if you are looking for a visa-free trip. So many nationalities can easily enter Ecuador without a visa and stay up to 90 days in the country.
Quito, which is the capital city of Ecuador, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a very popular place with colonial architecture. If you are the type that loves adventures, you can climb the Cotopaxi volcano. You could also take a trip to the Amazon or explore the cloud forest located in Mindo.
However, the main jewel of Ecuador is probably the Galápagos Islands. This place is very popular for its unique wildlife and pristine nature.
Since the country is relatively small, you can easily experience their beaches, mountains, and rainforest all in just one trip. With the availability of visa-friendly access, it simply means you spend less time worrying about paperwork while you enjoy your stay in the country.
6. Paraguay
Paraguay may not be the first country on your list, but come on, there’s just so much to explore and enjoy here. If you actually want a peaceful country that is both budget-friendly and also visa-free to enter, then you definitely have to consider Paraguay.
Those from the EU, UK, and a whole lot of other countries can easily visit Paraguay and stay up to 90 days without a visa.
Asunción, which happens to be the capital, has the blend of both history and modern life. There are so many colonial-era buildings still standing very tall in the country.
Beyond the city, you could also visit interesting places like the Paraguay River, Iguazu Falls (which they share with Brazil and Argentina), and the Jesuit ruins like Trinidad del Paraná.
When you compare Paraguay with its neighbors, you discover that the country is less crowded with tourists, so you’ll have a perfect opportunity to get an authentic experience. The visa-free access means you will be more relaxed while spending quality time here.
7. Uruguay
Uruguay is usually overshadowed by Brazil and Argentina, but this country is another visa-free travel location in South America that deserves a spot on our list. Citizens from the U.S., U.K., EU, and many Asian countries including South Korea and China can enter Uruguay and enjoy up to 90 days stay visa-free.
The capital city of Uruguay is Montevideo. It has a mixture of both history and modernity. It is a city with coastal vibes. If you happen to love beaches, Punta del Este is Uruguay’s luxury resort town. Most people usually compare it with Ibiza or even Miami.
Uruguay also has one of the highest qualities of life in the whole of South America. It is a very safe and enjoyable place to be for tourists. Through their visa-free policies, you can take your time and explore this beautiful South American country called Uruguay.
8. Suriname
Suriname, the smallest country in the whole of South America, is also another interesting destination for those planning visa-free travel. For those whose countries are not eligible for visa-free entry into Suriname, not to worry the country still allows easy entry through their e-visas or online travel authorizations.
Paramaribo is the capital of this nation. There are so many Dutch colonial buildings and colorful wooden houses scattered around.
The country has a very multicultural vibe that is highly influenced by Indian, African, Indonesian, and European traditions. The popular Suriname River and the surrounding rainforest in the area give visitors an opportunity to experience some breathtaking adventures.
Practical Tips for Visa-Free Travel in South America
The fact that you are traveling visa-free does not imply that you should ignore the standard entry requirements in these countries. You should always remember that each of these countries has its own rules on how long you are expected to stay, what documents you need, and the activities that are allowed within the country.
Here are some general tips we want you to have at the back of your mind:
Check Passport Validity In most South American countries, your passport is expected to be valid for at least 6 months. Make sure you check before you embark on your travel.
Proof of Funds & Return Ticket The immigration officers in these countries may be interested in knowing if you can financially support yourself while in the country, or if you have a return ticket after your stay.
Health Requirements In some countries, you will be asked to prove that you already have a yellow fever vaccination.
Respect Local Laws Even with visa-free entry, you shouldn’t overstay in any country. It could attract a fine, or you may be banned from entering the country in some cases. Visa-free entry is a privilege you shouldn’t abuse, so always make sure your documents are in order, and respect the local laws of the country you are visiting.
Final Thoughts
South America is an incredible destination to visit, especially if you are the type that enjoys adventures and culture. The sweetest part is that a lot of countries in this region are ready to welcome visitors visa-free.
Through visa-free entry, your travelling to these countries becomes way smoother and even less expensive. So, instead of spending more money and time on applying for a visa, you can just shift your entire focus to enjoying your time in the country you are visiting.
South America is a region that is very much open to explore. So, in case you are planning your next big adventure, you should take out time to consider one of these visa-free countries in South America that we’ve analyzed in this blog article. As you begin your journey to South America visa free, we hope you enjoy your visit there.
