Beyond Machu Picchu: 8 Ancient Wonders in South America You Need to Visit

South America holds some of the world’s most awe-inspiring ancient wonders. As you explore these incredible sites, you’ll be transported back in time. Each place tells a fascinating story of long-lost civilizations, from the mist-shrouded ruins ofMachu Picchuto the mysterious Nazca Lines etched into the desert.

You can visit over 10 must-see ancient wonders across South America that will take your breath away. Picture yourself standing atop Machu Picchu, gazing out at the Andes Mountains. Or imagine walking among the massive stone heads on Easter Island, pondering how they were made. These experiences will stay with you forever.

Get ready for an adventure through history! You’ll trek through dense jungles, climb dizzying mountain paths, and cross vast deserts to reach these fantastic sites. Along the way, you’ll learn about the incredible achievements of ancient South American cultures. Their engineering skills, artistic talents, and spiritual beliefs will amaze you. Pack your bags and prepare for the trip of a lifetime!

1. Kuelap, Peru

Get ready for an adventure back in time! Kuelap is perched high in the Andes of northern Peru, where the mountains meet the rainforest. This ancient fortress sits at a dizzying 10,000 feet above sea level.

Built by the Chachapoyas people, Kuelap is older than Machu Picchu. The main parts were constructed between 900 and 1100 CE, but some spots date back to the 6th century!

You’ll be amazed by the massive stone walls. They tower up to 65 feet high in some places. You’ll see the ruins of hundreds of round buildings inside as you explore. The Chachapoyas called this place home until the 1500s.

Getting to Kuelap used to be tough. Thanks to a cable car system, it’s much more manageable. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September. You’ll have clearer views and a more leisurely trek.

Don’t miss the chance to see Gocta Falls while you’re in the area. It’s one of the world’s tallest waterfalls and makes a great side trip from Kuelap.

Bring your sense of wonder and comfortable shoes. You’re in for an unforgettable journey to this “Machu Picchu of the North” through the clouds!

2. Tiwanaku, Bolivia

Get ready for an adventure back in time! Tiwanaku is one of South America’s most fascinating ancient sites. You’ll find it near Lake Titicaca in western Bolivia, about 70 km from La Paz.

This pre-Columbian wonder covers a vast areaabout 4 square kilometers. As you explore, you’ll see fantastic stone structures and decorated pottery. The site is so unique that it was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2000.

Tiwanaku’s history goes back a long way. Experts think people lived here as early as 200 BC! The culture thrived for centuries before mysteriously disappearing.

Here are some must-see spots:

• The Sun Gate: A massive stone arch
• The Kalasasaya: An open temple courtyard
• The Semi-underground Temple is filled with stone heads

You can visit Tiwanaku on a day trip from La Paz. It’s an easy journey of about 90-120 minutes. Here are your options:

1. Take a bus from La Paz (cheapest)
2. Join a guided tour (most convenient)
3. Hire a taxi (most flexible)

The best time to visit is during Bolivia’s dry season (May to October). The weather is more relaxed, but there will be clear skies for great photos.

Don’t miss this chance to walk in the footsteps of an ancient civilization. Tiwanaku will leave you in awe of South America’s rich history!

See Related: Best Places to Visit in South America

3. Ciudad Perdida, Colombia

You’re in for an adventure at Ciudad Perdida, Colombia’s “Lost City.” Hidden in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, this ancient wonder predates Machu Picchu by 650 years. The Tairona people built it around 800 AD, showing off their skills.

Getting there isn’t easy. You’ll trek through thick jungle for 4-6 days. But don’t worry – the journey is part of the fun! You’ll cross rivers, climb stone steps, and soak in amazing views.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Best time to visit: December to March (dry season)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 4-6 days round trip
• Guide: Required

Pack light but smart:

• Hiking boots
• Quick-dry clothes
• Insect repellent
• Water bottle

At the top, you’ll find terraces, plazas, and stone paths. It’s like stepping back in time! The city was home to thousands before the Spanish conquest.

You might spot colorful birds or even monkeys along the way. The clean forest air will energize you for the climb.

Remember, this isn’t a luxury trip. You’ll sleep in basic camps and might get muddy. But the thrill of discovering this lost city makes it all worth it.

4. Chan Chan, Peru

You’ll be awestruck by Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas. This ancient wonder sits near Trujillo on Peru’s northern coast. Built around 1300 AD, it was the grand capital of the Chim civilization.

Chan Chan is massive. The city covers nearly 20 square kilometers! Its adobe walls and intricate carvings will transport you back in time. As you wander the ruins, you’ll see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October. You’ll avoid rain and have clearer skies for exploring. To get there, fly into Trujillo’s airport and take a taxi to the site.

Don’t miss the Tschudi Complex, one of Chan Chan’s best-preserved areas. You’ll marvel at its 30-foot-high walls adorned with sea otters and fish. These carvings hint at the Chim people’s connection to the ocean.

Chan Chan faced threats from El Nio floods and the Spanish conquest. Today, it battles erosion from wind and rain. But conservation efforts are underway to protect this incredible piece of history for future explorers like you.

See Related: South America: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Rich Culture and Geography

5. Quilmes Ruins, Argentina

Tucked away in Argentina’s rugged Calchaqu Valleys, the Quilmes Ruins offer a glimpse into an ancient world. You’ll find these remnants of a once-thriving civilization about 182 km from San Miguel de Tucumn.

As you approach, stone terraces carved into the hillside come into view. These agricultural marvels stretch across 50 hectares, a testament to the ingenuity of the Quilmes people.

The site dates back to around 850 AD. At its peak, it housed 5,000 inhabitants. Can you imagine the bustling activity that once filled these now-quiet stones?

Your exploration takes you through the remains of a fortified citadel. Climb to higher ground for sweeping views of the semi-desert landscape. The stark beauty of the surroundings will take your breath away.

The best time to visit is spring (September to November), with mild temperatures and clear skies. Avoid summer months, when scorching heat can make sightseeing uncomfortable.

Getting there is an adventure in itself. Rent a car in Tucumn or join a guided tour. The winding mountain roads offer stunning vistas, so take your time and enjoy the journey.

Don’t miss the on-site museum. It houses artifacts that bring the ancient Quilmes culture to life, and you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the resourcefulness of these early inhabitants.

6. Ingapirca, Ecuador

Ever dreamed of exploring ancient ruins without the crowds? Ingapirca is your ticket to a hidden archaeological gem. Tucked away in Ecuador’s Caar Province, these Inca ruins are the largest in the country.

As you approach, the Temple of the Sun steals the show. This elliptical building, unique in South America, wraps around a massive rock. It’s a testament to Inca engineering and astronomical knowledge.

Wander the site, and you’ll spot evidence of clever irrigation systems. The Inca weren’t the only ones here, though. Earlier, Caari people left their mark, too. It’s a fascinating blend of cultures etched in stone.

Getting there is half the adventure. From Cuenca, it’s about a 90-minute drive. Rent a car or join a tour for the most accessible access. Public buses run too, but they’re less convenient.

The best time to visit is June to August, which offers the driest weather. But pack layersit can be chilly at this altitude. Early morning visits let you beat the heat and any potential crowds.

Don’t forget your camera! The ruins against the backdrop of rolling hills make for stunning shots. Watch for llamas grazing nearbythey add that perfect Andean touch to your photos.

Ingapirca might not be as famous as Machu Picchu, but that’s part of its charm. You’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret slice of history. It’s the perfect addition to your Ecuador adventure.

7. Pucara de Tilcara, Argentina

Get ready for an adventure through time at Pucara de Tilcara! This ancient fortress sits on a hill near the small town of Tilcara in northwest Argentina. You’ll feel like an explorer as you climb to see the ruins.

The Pucara dates back over 900 years. It was built by the Omaguaca people long before the Inca showed up. They chose this spot for its amazing Quebrada de Humahuaca valley views. Innovative thinking – they could see enemies coming from miles away!

As you wander the site, you’ll see:

• Stone walls of old houses
• Ancient plazas where people gathered
• Workshops where artisans made tools
• Corrals for keeping animals

The best time to visit is April to November. The weather is dry and mild then. Avoid January and February, as they can get pouring.

To get there, take a bus from Jujuy City. It’s about a 2-hour ride. Once in Tilcara, you can walk to the Pucara in about 15 minutes. Wear comfy shoes – the path is steep!

Don’t miss the small museum at the site. It has incredible artifacts found during digs, including ancient pottery, tools, and even mummies!

See Related: Closeup-shot-of-south-America-on-an-old-map

8. San Agustn, Colombia

Get ready for an adventure through time in San Agustn! This hidden gem in southern Colombia is home to some of South America’s most mysterious ancient wonders.

You’ll find over 600 eerie statues scattered across lush green hills. These massive stone figures will make your jaw drop with their strange animal-human faces. No one knows exactly who made them or why. That’s part of the fun!

The best way to explore is on horseback. Trot along winding paths between burial mounds and megalithic tombs. You might feel like Indiana Jones as you discover ancient carvings tucked away in the forest.

Don’t miss the Archaeological Park, which is the main attraction. It’s packed with the biggest and best-preserved statues. Snap photos of the fierce jaguar men and bird-headed warriors. Your friends back home won’t believe their eyes!

Plan your visit between December and March for the driest weather. The park can get muddy after rain. Bring good hiking shoes and a sense of wonder. You’re about to step into one of Colombia’s most fascinating mysteries!