9) Uruguay
Dubbed the Switzerland of South America, Uruguay is considered extremely safe, democratically stable, and incredibly cultured. Uruguay is dwarfed in size when compared to major tourist hubs like Brazil and Argentina, but this is all part of the country’s motif. Take a free, self-guided tour around UNESCO World Heritage Site of Colónia’s Old Town. Uruguay claims to be the “birthplace of tango”, so head to Montevideo to learn how to get down like the locals do. Nature lovers should head out to Punta el Diablo to soak up the sun on the country’s best beach. Surf boards and horses are available to rent and you won’t likely have to battle any crowds. Uruguay may not be the cheapest South American country, but beer is still a couple bucks, guest-house rooms start at $20/night, and inter-city bus tickets range between $12-$20 anywhere in the country.
