Back to grid

Best fall foliage destinations in South America

Back to grid
San Carlos de Bariloche
Argentina’s Alpine Wonderland
7.4
Lenga forest along the Circuito Chico drive turns bright red each April around Bariloche. The route loops past Nahuel Huapi Lake beneath the changing hillsides. Visitors can stop at viewpoints framed by turning trees and Andean peaks. Chocolate shops in town make a popular stop after the drive.
Highlights:
  • 🏘️ Explore the Bavarian-style Centro Cívico and museums
  • 🥾 Hike the scenic trails of Nahuel Huapi National Park
  • 🚡 Take a cable car to Cerro Otto for panoramic views
Patagonia
Untamed Beauty at the End of the World
8.3
Lenga forest around El Chalten turns fiery red each April beneath the jagged Fitz Roy peaks. Cooler autumn air often clears the skies for sharper mountain views. Visitors can hike trails through changing forest towards glacial lakes at the base of the range. Strong Patagonian winds can pick up suddenly even on clear days.
Highlights:
  • 🐧 Explore the diverse wildlife on Peninsula Valdés
  • ❄️ Witness the massive Perito Moreno Glacier up close
  • 🥾 Hike the legendary trails of Torres del Paine National Park
Chile
Land of dramatic climate contrasts
8.3
Lenga forest across Torres del Paine turns deep red and orange each April in Chilean Patagonia. The colour contrasts sharply against the granite towers rising behind the trees. Visitors can hike trails around glacial lakes framed by the changing forest. Guanacos often graze on the golden grassland nearby.
Highlights:
  • 🗿 Visit the iconic Easter Island moai statues
  • 🌋 Hike to the summit of the active Villarrica Volcano
  • 🏜️ Explore the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert
Mendoza
Wine, Andes and Adventure Bliss
7.2
Vineyards across Mendoza turn gold each April as the grape harvest wraps up for the season. Snow capped Andes peaks rise behind the changing rows of vines. Visitors can cycle between wineries built along tree lined irrigation canals. Many bodegas host harvest festivals timed to the same colour change.
Highlights:
  • 🍇 Join a tasting at a traditional Mendoza bodega
  • 🏔️ Drive along the scenic Route of the Andes to Aconcagua
  • 🍷 Tour vineyards and sample Malbec in the heart of wine country
Feedback