Underrated Capitals of South America You Need to Visit Before Everyone Else
- Natalija Ugrina
- 11 hours ago
- 7 min read
Let’s be honest: when most people plan a trip to South America, they go for the classics—Rio, Lima, Medellín. And while those cities definitely have their sparkle, there’s something extra special about places that haven’t been polished for the spotlight yet. Places that still feel real.
During my recent travels through the continent, I found myself drawn to the capitals that aren’t talked about as much—places where I didn’t have to fight for a photo angle or follow the crowds. They were quieter, more affordable, and full of character. If you're craving something a little different (and a lot more authentic), here are five underrated capitals of South America you absolutely need to put on your radar—plus a few more that I haven’t visited yet, but are high on my list.
✈️ Explore the Most Underrated Capitals of South America:
🇵🇾 Asunción, Paraguay – The Secret Star of South America
If you’re looking for somewhere that still feels untouched by mass tourism, Asunción is your dream. Paraguay’s capital is slow-paced, colorful, and beautifully raw. It doesn’t try to impress—it just is. And that’s what makes it so captivating.
What to do: I spent hours wandering Loma San Jerónimo, a little neighborhood bursting with murals, colorful staircases, and street art that honestly deserves way more attention. You can’t miss the Casa de la Independencia, one of the most important historic buildings in Paraguay. And of course, the Palacio de los López—Asunción’s presidential palace—is stunning, especially at night when it lights up against the skyline.
One of my favorite stops was the Train Museum (Museo de la Estación Central del Ferrocarril). It’s housed in Paraguay’s original train station, and while it’s modest in size, it’s rich in nostalgia. There’s something romantic about seeing those old locomotives and imagining what life here looked like decades ago.
Local tip:You have to try mbeyú—a traditional flatbread made with cassava starch and cheese. It’s warm, crispy, and the ultimate comfort food. I found it at a small roadside café and ended up going back the next morning for more.
Where I stayed:I stayed at the stunning Hotel Palmaroga, a beautifully restored 19th-century gem in the heart of the historic district. It had the elegance of a bygone era and the comfort of a boutique hotel—plus balconies perfect for people-watching.
Best time to visit: April to September — the dry season is cooler and perfect for sightseeing. If you’re there in late June, don’t miss the Fiesta de San Juan, a lively celebration with traditional food, games, and even firewalking.
🇧🇴 Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia – Warm Days, Cool Cafés, and a Slower Pace
Santa Cruz might not be Bolivia’s capital, but it’s the country’s economic powerhouse—and one of its most exciting, fast-growing cities. Located in the eastern lowlands, it offers a totally different vibe from the highland cities like La Paz or Sucre. Think sunny skies, modern neighborhoods, and a rhythm that invites you to slow down and explore.
What to do: I started each day in Plaza 24 de Septiembre, the city’s main square, where locals gather under palm trees, musicians play guitar in the shade, and the colonial-era Iglesia San Lorenzo towers over everything. You can climb to the top for views over the city—and it’s worth every step. Nearby, La Recova is a cozy little market filled with handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and souvenirs that aren’t mass-produced.
If you want to dive into the city’s cultural side, stop by the Museo de la Ciudad Altillo Beni. Set in a beautifully preserved colonial house, the museum offers exhibits on Santa Cruz’s history, art, and traditions. I loved the blend of architecture, artifacts, and stories that gave real context to the city I was walking through.
Local tip: Try majadito—a traditional rice dish with shredded meat, fried plantain, and a fried egg on top. It sounds simple, but when you find a good one, it’s unforgettable.
Where to stay: Here are two great picks:
Marriott Santa Cruz de la Sierra – Sleek, modern, and perfect if you’re craving rooftop views and a great spa
Los Tajibos Hotel – A Santa Cruz classic with lush gardens, resort-style amenities, and exceptional service
These are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for helping support the blog!
Best time to visit: May to September — warm, sunny, and dry. For a burst of color and energy, try to catch Carnaval Cruceño in February, Santa Cruz’s vibrant take on Carnival filled with music, dancing, and tropical flair.
🇺🇾 Montevideo, Uruguay – South America's Best-Kept Coastal Secret
Montevideo is low-key magic. Romantic, walkable, and full of soul. It’s the kind of city where locals sit by the water sipping mate, and you feel like you’re being let in on a secret.
What to do: Start in Ciudad Vieja, the old town where time seems to slow down. I spent an entire afternoon wandering through bookshops, peeking into art galleries, and drinking coffee under balconies with chipped paint and ivy-covered walls. The Rambla—Montevideo’s scenic coastal path—is a must for sunset walks, and Mercado del Puerto is where I had one of the best grilled meals of my life.
Don’t miss Palacio Salvo. It’s spooky, romantic, and absolutely iconic. And if you’re lucky enough to be there during Carnival, check out my post about Montevideo’s 40-day celebration—it’s the longest Carnival in the world, and somehow still feels intimate.
Local tip: Drink Tannat—Uruguay’s bold red wine. It’s rich, earthy, and pairs perfectly with grilled meats or quiet rooftop sunsets.
Where I stayed: I stayed at Hotel Montevideo, a stunning property that transformed one of the city’s most iconic corners into a hub of elegance and energy. The hotel is a perfect blend of design and atmosphere, with thoughtful details in every space and a vibe that feels both refined and lively. With Pocitos, Montevideo’s quaintest neighborhood, right at your fingertips, it was the perfect place to return to after a day of exploring. The on-site dining and rooftop views made it hard to leave.
Best time to visit: November to March — this is Uruguay’s summer, and the city truly comes alive. If you want something unforgettable, plan your trip around Montevideo’s Carnival (January to early March)—the longest-running in the world with nightly street performances and drumming.
🇧🇷 Brasília, Brazil – Brazil’s Most Bizarre and Beautiful Capital
Brasília is unlike any other city I’ve visited. It’s bold, experimental, and designed with such precision it almost feels like you're walking through a museum of the future.
What to do: Start at the Cathedral of Brasília, which looks like something out of a sci-fi film with its soaring white spires and stained-glass ceiling. Tour the Palácio do Planalto, the Palácio da Alvorada, and the Itamaraty Palace to see Oscar Niemeyer’s architectural legacy in full swing. The JK Memorial was also a standout—somber, striking, and beautifully designed.
Local tip: This isn’t a city for wandering on foot. Everything is spaced out, and you’ll want to use Uber or a car to explore. Plan your route in advance—it’s efficient, but it’s not intuitive.
Where to stay:
Melia Brasil 21 – Stylish and centrally located, with panoramic city views
B Hotel Brasília – Architecturally striking, sleek, and perfect for design lovers
Best time to visit: May to September — dry season, cooler days, and fewer afternoon storms. For a cultural bonus, visit in April during the city’s birthday celebration on April 21, when the capital fills with concerts, parades, and public art displays.
🇨🇴 Bogotá, Colombia – High-Altitude Art and Street Soul
Bogotá buzzes with energy. It’s chaotic and creative, gritty and soulful—and totally my kind of city.
What to do: La Candelaria is the heart of it all. Every wall is covered in mural art, every alley has a story. I spent a morning in the Museo del Oro, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s one of the most fascinating museums I’ve ever visited. The gold artifacts tell a whole story about the continent we rarely hear. Later, I took the funicular up to Monserrate, where the city stretches endlessly below you.
Don’t miss Plaza Bolívar or Museo Botero if you love bold, quirky art. And if you're there on a Sunday, you have to try ciclovía—when the city shuts down the main roads for bikers, skaters, and street performers. I ended up salsa dancing in the street with total strangers. It was one of those moments I’ll never forget.
Where I stayed:I stayed at the Sofitel Bogotá Victoria Regia in Zona Rosa, and I couldn’t have picked a better place. Elegant, serene, and close to everything I wanted to explore. The breakfast alone was worth booking.
Best time to visit: December to March — Bogotá is mild year-round, but this is the driest stretch. If you’re in town in August, don’t miss the Festival de Verano—a week of open-air concerts, sports, and street performances across Bogotá’s parks.
🗺️ A Few More Underrated Capitals to Keep on Your Radar
While I haven’t made it to these just yet, they’re definitely on my list (and maybe should be on yours too):
Quito, Ecuador – Colonial streets, mountain views, and a cable car that takes you almost to the sky
Paramaribo, Suriname – Wooden Dutch buildings meet Caribbean color and South American spirit
Georgetown, Guyana – Stilted houses, jungle access, and a completely different take on what a South American capital can look like
Let me know if you’ve been—I’d love to hear your experience.
✈️ Why These Cities?
Because they still feel undiscovered.They’re not curated for Instagram. They’re not trying too hard. They just are.
These cities gave me:
🧳 Rich culture and connection
💬 Unscripted, meaningful moments
📸 Fresh content without the crowd
💸 Great experiences for a fraction of the cost
If you're ready to slow down, explore deeper, and experience South America in a more personal way, these underrated capitals are calling.