Top Culinary Destinations in South America for Travellers

Over the last 18 years, the World Travel Awards have been identifying the finest travel destinations, hotels, and more. These awards recognize the best places for travelers to visit all over the world. South America is a region with plenty of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, and it is also home to some of the world’s greatest cuisine. The 19th World Travel Awards feature the top selections for South America’s Leading Culinary Destination. From Ecuador to Argentina and beyond, the culinary offerings in this region are top-notch and sure to impress. By perusing the nominees and learning about the local specialties, travelers can discover new and exciting culinary experiences during their South American travels.

The World Travel Awards have been honoring outstanding travel destinations and accommodations for almost two decades. These awards highlight the premier locations around the world that travelers should not miss. South America is a fascinating area that boasts rich historical, cultural, and natural landmarks. Additionally, it is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, which is among the finest in the world. To find the best culinary offerings in South America, check out the nominees for the 19th World Travel Awards’ Leading Culinary Destination category. You’ll discover some fantastic dining experiences throughout the region, from Ecuador to Argentina and many places in between. Be sure to read about the different regional specialties so you can savor the full range of South American cuisine during your travels.

Argentina

Argentina is famous for its beef and is ranked as the third-largest beef exporter globally, and the world’s foremost beef consumer. Thus, it is crucial to try some of its asados or beef barbeques when on vacation in Argentina. While the country boasts several excellent dishes across its numerous regions, Buenos Aires offers the most diverse array of flavors and dishes, making it the ideal place to experience the best of Argentina’s cuisine.

Brazil

Brazil is renowned for its stunning beaches and tropical climate, but it is also home to delicious cuisine. Feijoada, the national dish of Brazil, is a hearty stew prepared with black beans and pork that is a must-try while on a Brazilian vacation. Brazil is also famous for its Churrasco, or barbecue, where visitors can enjoy plates full of savory meats from one of the many local churrasquerias.

Chile

Chile’s lengthy 2,647 miles of coastline result in seafood featuring in many of its dishes. However, incorporating beef alongside seafood is also a common practice. Curanto en Hoyo, a traditional Chilean dish, is a combination of seafood, meats, and bread wrapped in leaves and cooked in a hole filled with hot rocks, making it not only interesting but also incredibly delicious!

Peru

Peru, the gastronomic capital of South America, is an unsurprising nominee for the top culinary destination. Chef Gaston Acurio has put Peru on the map of the global food scene, and the country is renowned for having some of the tastiest cuisine in South America. Don’t miss out on regional favorites like Lomo Saltado, Rocotto Rellena, or Aji de Gallina during your Peru vacation.

Uruguay, Venezuela, Bolivia, and Paraguay are also among the nominees and showcase some fantastic cuisine. With so many excellent places to eat and travel in South America, it’s challenging to choose which country has the best dishes. The only way to determine this is to sample all the fabulous cuisine in these top countries during your South America travels.