Best Maps for South America

by Christopher O'Keeffe July 14, 2026

South America is not a continent where one map should be expected to do everything. A successful journey may require a continental overview, individual country maps, waterproof regional mapping, city plans for Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Santiago, Lima or Quito, specialist maps for Patagonia, the Amazon, the Galápagos or Machu Picchu and, for planning at home, a large wall map.

South America rewards travellers who plan at more than one scale.

The continent stretches from the Caribbean coast to Cape Horn and contains some of the most varied geography on Earth. A single journey might connect Andean capitals, Amazon rivers, desert highways, colonial cities, tropical coastlines, archaeological sites, vineyards, salt flats, glaciers and remote Patagonian roads.

A classic South American itinerary may include:

• Colombia and Cartagena;

• Quito and the Galápagos Islands;

• Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu;

• Lake Titicaca and La Paz;

• the Uyuni salt flats;

• Santiago and the Atacama Desert;

• Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego;

• Buenos Aires and Montevideo;

• Iguazú Falls;

• Rio de Janeiro and Brazil’s Atlantic coast;

• the Amazon Basin.

A complete mapping kit may therefore combine:

1. a continental map showing the journey as a whole;

2. country maps for the principal destinations;

3. regional maps for the Andes, Amazon or Patagonia;

4. detailed city maps for important arrivals and longer stays;

5. waterproof maps for trekking and remote travel;

6. a wall map for planning, education or display;

7. offline digital navigation and current local information.

Explore the complete Mapworld South America maps and guides collection and the broader Wall Maps of Countries and Regions collection.

Mapworld’s South America collection brings together continental, national, regional, city, trekking and wall maps from publishers including ITMB, Michelin, National Geographic and Borch. The range is designed for travellers, schools, businesses, researchers and collectors rather than offering only one general map of the continent.

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The Best Maps for South America: Quick Recommendations

Purpose	Best Mapworld option
Best overall continental travel map	South America ITMB Travel Map
Best large political wall map	South America Political Wall Map 990 × 1140 mm
Best standard National Geographic wall map	South America Classic National Geographic 599 × 770 mm
Best large National Geographic wall map	South America Classic National Geographic 908 × 1177 mm
Best antique-style modern wall map	South America Executive National Geographic Map
Best physical wall map	South America Physical — National Geographic Atlas Map
Best compact Argentina map	Argentina ITMB Map
Best waterproof Argentina map	Argentina National Geographic Adventure Map
Best Patagonia road map	Patagonia Rail & Road ITMB Map
Best Tierra del Fuego map	Argentina South & Tierra del Fuego ITMB Map
Best Torres del Paine trekking map	Torres del Paine Folded Trekking Map 2026
Best Chile map	Chile ITMB Map
Best waterproof Chile map	Chile National Geographic Adventure Map
Best combined Chile–Argentina map	Chile & Argentina Michelin Map 788
Best Brazil road map	Brazil Michelin Map 764
Best general Brazil map	Brazil ITMB Map
Best compact laminated Brazil map	Brazil Borch Folded Laminated Map
Best Amazon map	Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map
Best Rio and east-coast map	Rio de Janeiro & Brazil East Coast ITMB Map
Best Peru map	Peru ITMB Map
Best waterproof Peru map	Peru National Geographic Adventure Map
Best Cusco and southern Peru map	Cuzco & Peru South ITMB Map
Best Ecuador and Galápagos map	Ecuador & Galápagos National Geographic Map
Best Galápagos and gateway-city map	Galápagos Islands, Quito & Guayaquil ITMB Map
Best Bolivia map	Bolivia ITMB Map
Best Colombia map	Colombia ITMB Map
Best Uruguay and Montevideo map	Uruguay & Montevideo ITMB Map
Best Venezuela map	Venezuela ITMB Map
Best historical continental map	South America National Geographic Map — 1921
Best educational physical map	Children’s Physical Map of South America
Best educational political map	Children’s Political Map of South America

For a multi-country journey, the strongest starting combination is:

• South America ITMB Travel Map;

• one detailed map for each major country;

• specialist mapping for Patagonia, the Amazon, Cusco or the Galápagos;

• offline digital navigation;

• current road, rail, weather and local travel information.

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Why South America Requires More Than a Phone

Digital navigation is extremely useful in South America.

It can provide:

• immediate GPS positioning;

• city directions;

• public-transport information;

• accommodation locations;

• downloaded offline maps;

• driving estimates;

• airline and bus terminals;

• walking routes;

• restaurant and attraction searches.

But a phone remains dependent on:

• battery power;

• functioning hardware;

• mobile or satellite reception;

• correctly downloaded data;

• accurate place names;

• current road information;

• a screen large enough to understand the complete journey.

A phone may guide a traveller from a hotel in Cusco to a railway station without showing how Cusco relates to the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, the Peruvian coast or the Bolivian Altiplano.

It may display a route between El Calafate and Torres del Paine without clearly communicating:

• the international border;

• mountain barriers;

• the scale of Patagonia;

• alternative roads;

• the relationship between Argentine and Chilean Patagonia;

• the distance to the next major town.

A paper map provides:

• a permanent continental or national overview;

• visible borders and alternative routes;

• the relationship between roads, rivers and mountain ranges;

• regional context extending beyond the immediate route;

• an independent reference requiring no power;

• a shared planning surface for couples, families and groups.

The strongest approach is not paper instead of digital.

It is paper and digital together.

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1. South America ITMB Travel Map

The Best Overall Continental Map

The South America ITMB Travel Map is the strongest single folded map for understanding the continent as a whole.

It is produced at approximately 1:4,000,000 and unfolds to about 690 × 1000 mm. Mapworld offers paper and laminated formats.

A continental map is essential for journeys involving several countries because it shows how the major regions fit together:

• the northern Andes;

• the Amazon Basin;

• the Pacific coast;

• the Altiplano;

• the Atacama Desert;

• southern Brazil;

• the Río de la Plata;

• Patagonia;

• Tierra del Fuego.

Best For

Choose the South America ITMB map when:

• the journey covers more than one country;

• you are backpacking or travelling overland;

• you want to compare flights, roads and border crossings;

• the trip includes a long Andean corridor;

• you need one continental planning map;

• a laminated write-on map would be useful.

Why It Should Be the First Map

A country map can explain Argentina or Peru in detail.

It cannot show the complete relationship between:

• Colombia, Ecuador and Peru;

• Peru, Bolivia and northern Chile;

• Argentina, Uruguay and southern Brazil;

• Chilean and Argentine Patagonia;

• the Amazon and the countries sharing its basin.

The continental map becomes the spine of the itinerary. Country and regional maps are then added where greater detail is required.

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2. The Best Maps for Argentina

Argentina extends from subtropical northern regions to Tierra del Fuego. Buenos Aires, Iguazú Falls, Mendoza, the Andes, the Lake District, Patagonia and the far south cannot be represented properly at one practical travel scale.

Argentina ITMB Map

The Argentina ITMB Map is the best general map for national touring.

It is produced at approximately 1:2,200,000, measures about 690 × 1000 mm and includes a detailed Buenos Aires inset. Its coverage also extends into much of Uruguay and Paraguay, making it useful for regional journeys around the Río de la Plata and northern Argentina.

Choose it for:

• Buenos Aires;

• Mendoza;

• Córdoba;

• Salta;

• Iguazú Falls;

• Bariloche;

• long national road journeys;

• regional travel into Uruguay or Paraguay.

Argentina National Geographic Adventure Map

The Argentina National Geographic Folded Map is the best durable alternative.

It is double sided, waterproof and tear resistant, measuring approximately 965 × 660 mm unfolded.

Choose it when:

• outdoor durability matters;

• Patagonia is included;

• the map will be handled repeatedly;

• national parks and physical geography are important;

• the journey combines driving, hiking and general touring.

Argentina Borch Laminated Map

The Argentina Borch Folded Laminated Map is the best compact wipe-clean option.

Its soft-laminated construction is useful for travellers who want a small map that can be carried in a day bag and opened repeatedly.

Buenos Aires Maps

For detailed city travel, choose either:

• Buenos Aires & Argentina North East ITMB Map;

• Buenos Aires Borch Folded Laminated Map.

The ITMB product combines city detail with northeastern Argentina, while the Borch map is the stronger compact laminated choice for daily walking and sightseeing.

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3. The Best Maps for Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego

Patagonia crosses an international border and cannot be understood properly through an Argentina-only or Chile-only map.

Its geography includes:

• Argentine steppe;

• Chilean fjords;

• the southern Andes;

• glaciers;

• remote roads;

• border crossings;

• national parks;

• Tierra del Fuego;

• the Strait of Magellan;

• expedition gateways towards Antarctica.

Patagonia Rail & Road ITMB Map

The Patagonia Rail & Road ITMB Map is the best broad specialist map of Patagonia.

It is printed on waterproof, tear-resistant material and is designed around road, rail and regional travel rather than one national boundary.

Choose it for journeys involving:

• Bariloche;

• the Argentine Lake District;

• the Carretera Austral;

• El Chaltén;

• El Calafate;

• Torres del Paine;

• Punta Arenas;

• Ushuaia;

• cross-border Patagonian touring.

Argentina South & Tierra del Fuego ITMB Map

The Argentina South & Tierra del Fuego ITMB Map provides southern Argentina at approximately 1:2,200,000 and Tierra del Fuego at approximately 1:750,000.

It is particularly useful for the final southern stages towards Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel. The Mapworld product page currently identifies this title as sold out, so availability should be checked before ordering.

Torres del Paine Trekking Map 2026

The Torres del Paine Folded Trekking Map 2026 is the strongest detailed map for walking inside the national park.

It is produced at 1:40,000 and includes:

• the O Circuit;

• the W Trek;

• the Q Circuit;

• elevation profiles;

• route and trekking information;

• GPX compatibility;

• a durable field-ready sheet.

Torres del Paine Wall Map

The Torres del Paine National Park Wall Map is better suited to pre-trip planning, lodges, travel agencies and post-journey display.

Magallanes Region Wall Map

The Magallanes Region Wall Map — Chile shows the larger southern Chilean context, including Patagonia, the Strait of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego.

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4. The Best Maps for Chile

Chile’s extraordinary length makes it difficult to represent on one conventional sheet. A complete journey may pass from the Atacama Desert through Santiago and the Central Valley to the Lake District, Patagonia and Cape Horn.

Chile ITMB Map

The Chile ITMB Map is the strongest general national map.

It is produced at approximately 1:1,750,000, measures about 690 × 1000 mm and is designed as a durable travel map.

Choose it for:

• Santiago;

• Valparaíso;

• the Central Valley;

• the Atacama Desert;

• the Chilean Lake District;

• long-distance road planning;

• routes towards Patagonia.

Chile National Geographic Adventure Map

The Chile National Geographic Folded Map is the best waterproof national alternative.

Its double-sided adventure format is particularly useful for national parks, outdoor travel and repeated field handling.

Chile & Argentina Michelin Map 788

The Chile & Argentina Michelin Map 788 is the strongest conventional map for travellers crossing repeatedly between the two countries.

It is useful for:

• trans-Andean routes;

• Santiago and Mendoza;

• northern Chile and Argentina;

• the Lake District;

• Patagonia;

• wider road-tour planning.

Santiago, Northern & Central Chile ITMB Map

The Santiago, Northern & Central Chile ITMB Map combines city mapping of Santiago with wider coverage of central and northern Chile.

It is the better choice when the itinerary concentrates on:

• Santiago;

• Valparaíso;

• wine regions;

• the Atacama;

• northern Chile;

• regional roads around the capital.

Easter Island & Santiago ITMB Map

The Easter Island & Santiago ITMB Map combines two places separated by thousands of kilometres but often linked within one Chile itinerary.

It is useful for understanding:

• Santiago;

• Easter Island;

• Rapa Nui’s road network;

• archaeological and cultural sites;

• the island’s position within the wider Pacific.

Chile Borch Laminated Map

The Chile Borch Folded Laminated Map is the best compact, wipe-clean national option.

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5. The Best Maps for Brazil

Brazil occupies an enormous part of South America. The Amazon, Brasília, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, the Pantanal, Iguaçu Falls and the Atlantic northeast cannot be covered equally well on one map.

Brazil ITMB Map

The Brazil ITMB Map divides the country between a more detailed southern side at approximately 1:2,200,000 and broader northern coverage at approximately 1:4,500,000.

It measures about 690 × 1000 mm, shows road networks, cities, rivers, terrain and transport routes, and is available in paper or laminated formats.

Choose it for:

• national overland planning;

• São Paulo;

• Brasília;

• southern Brazil;

• Iguaçu Falls;

• Pantanal access;

• Amazon connections;

• long-distance road travel.

Brazil Michelin Map 764

The Brazil Michelin Map 764 is the best conventional road map.

Michelin’s road hierarchy makes it particularly useful for motorists who want a clear view of:

• principal highways;

• secondary routes;

• cities and towns;

• regional distances;

• border connections.

Brazil Borch Folded Laminated Map

The Brazil Borch Folded Laminated Map is the most compact laminated national option.

Its waterproof, wipeable surface and city plans make it useful for urban and general travel.

Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map

The Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map is the best broad specialist map for the Amazon and northern Brazil.

It is produced at approximately 1:3,300,000, measures about 690 × 1000 mm and is printed on stone paper, with optional lamination.

It is useful for:

• Manaus;

• Belém;

• Amazon river travel;

• northern Brazilian states;

• rainforest geography;

• overland and river connections involving neighbouring countries.

Rio de Janeiro & Brazil East Coast ITMB Map

The Rio de Janeiro & Brazil East Coast ITMB Map is the best combination of city and coastal-region mapping.

It provides:

• Rio de Janeiro at approximately 1:12,500;

• Brazil’s east coast at approximately 1:3,000,000;

• coverage from São Paulo towards Natal;

• central Rio, Copacabana, Ipanema and major attractions;

• coastal roads and northeastern Brazilian cities.

The map is printed on waterproof synthetic paper.

Rio de Janeiro Borch Map

The Rio de Janeiro Borch Folded Laminated Map is the better compact option for daily city use.

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6. The Best Maps for the Amazon Basin

The Amazon is not confined to Brazil. Its river system and rainforest extend across several countries, including Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela and the Guianas.

Best Travel Map

The Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map is the best folded regional reference.

Best Wall Map

The Amazon National Geographic 559 × 711 mm Wall Map is the strongest display and educational map of the region.

It is available in:

• paper;

• laminated;

• laminated with hang rails;

• canvas;

• canvas with hang rails.

Best For

An Amazon-focused map kit is useful for:

• river cruising;

• environmental education;

• rainforest research;

• conservation organisations;

• school geography;

• travel through Manaus, Iquitos or Amazonian Ecuador;

• understanding the basin across national borders.

Travellers entering the Amazon through Peru or Ecuador should also carry the appropriate country map.

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7. The Best Maps for Peru

Peru combines the Pacific coast, Andes, high-altitude plateaus, archaeological regions and Amazonian lowlands.

Peru ITMB Map

The Peru ITMB Map is the strongest general national travel map.

It is produced at approximately 1:1,500,000, measures about 690 × 1000 mm and is printed on durable waterproof plastic paper.

Choose it for:

• Lima;

• Cusco;

• the Sacred Valley;

• Machu Picchu;

• Lake Titicaca;

• Arequipa;

• the Nazca region;

• the Cordillera Blanca;

• Amazon travel.

Peru National Geographic Adventure Map

The Peru National Geographic Folded Map is the best waterproof alternative for travellers who want roads, terrain and outdoor destinations in National Geographic’s adventure-map format.

Peru Borch Laminated Map

The Peru Borch Folded Laminated Map is the strongest compact wipe-clean option.

Cuzco & Peru South ITMB Map

The Cuzco & Peru South ITMB Map is the best specialist choice for the country’s most visited southern region.

It combines:

• detailed Cusco mapping at approximately 1:110,000;

• broader southern Peru coverage at approximately 1:1,500,000;

• a large 690 × 1000 mm sheet;

• regional travel context for Cusco, the Sacred Valley and the southern Andes.

Best Peru Combination

For Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, carry:

• Peru ITMB Map;

• Cuzco & Peru South ITMB Map;

• Peru National Geographic Map;

• current official information for trains, trekking permits and site access.

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8. The Best Maps for Ecuador and the Galápagos

Ecuador is geographically compact but exceptionally varied. A journey may move from Quito and the Andes to the Amazon, Pacific coast and Galápagos Islands.

Ecuador ITMB Map

The Ecuador ITMB Map is the strongest general national map.

Ecuador Borch Laminated Map

The Ecuador Borch Folded Laminated Map is the best compact wipe-clean option.

Ecuador & Galápagos National Geographic Map

The Ecuador & Galápagos National Geographic Folded Map is the strongest durable map combining mainland Ecuador with the islands.

Its waterproof adventure-map format is well suited to a trip involving:

• Quito;

• the Avenue of Volcanoes;

• the Ecuadorian Amazon;

• Pacific coastal travel;

• the Galápagos.

Galápagos National Geographic Map

The National Geographic Folded Map is the better dedicated island reference.

Galápagos Islands, Quito & Guayaquil ITMB Map

The Galápagos Islands, Quito & Guayaquil ITMB Map is particularly useful because it connects the islands with the two mainland gateway cities used by many visitors.

Quito & Central Ecuador ITMB Map

The Quito & Central Ecuador ITMB Map is the strongest city-and-region map for travellers spending more time in Quito and the central highlands.

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9. The Best Map for Bolivia

Bolivia’s geography is shaped by extreme altitude, the Altiplano, the Uyuni salt flats, Andean cities, valleys and Amazonian lowlands.

The Bolivia ITMB Map is the strongest general travel map.

It is double sided and designed for Andean road trips, archaeological destinations and travel around the Salar de Uyuni.

It is useful for:

• La Paz;

• Sucre;

• Potosí;

• Uyuni;

• Lake Titicaca;

• Santa Cruz;

• Andean routes into Peru and Chile;

• southern connections into Argentina and Paraguay.

For southern Bolivia and Paraguay together, add the Paraguay & Bolivia South ITMB Map.

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10. The Best Map for Colombia

The Colombia ITMB Map is the strongest general map for Colombia.

It is double sided, produced at approximately 1:1,300,000, measures about 690 × 1000 mm and is available with optional lamination.

It is useful for:

• Bogotá;

• Medellín;

• Cartagena;

• Cali;

• the coffee region;

• Caribbean and Pacific coasts;

• Andean roads;

• Amazonian connections;

• border travel towards Ecuador or Venezuela.

A continental South America map is useful alongside it for understanding Colombia’s position at the northern entrance to the continent.

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11. The Best Maps for Uruguay and the Río de la Plata

The Uruguay & Montevideo ITMB Map is the strongest dedicated map for Uruguay.

It combines:

• Montevideo at approximately 1:10,000;

• Uruguay at approximately 1:800,000;

• a double-sided 690 × 990 mm format;

• city and national travel detail.

Choose it for:

• Montevideo;

• Colonia del Sacramento;

• Punta del Este;

• Atlantic coastal travel;

• journeys connecting Uruguay and Buenos Aires.

For a two-country Río de la Plata journey, combine it with:

• Buenos Aires & Argentina North East ITMB Map;

• Argentina ITMB Map.

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12. The Best Maps for Paraguay and Venezuela

Paraguay

The Paraguay & Bolivia South ITMB Map is the most relevant Mapworld product for Paraguay.

It is suitable for:

• Asunción;

• the Paraguayan Chaco;

• overland routes towards Bolivia;

• journeys connecting Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil.

Venezuela

The Venezuela ITMB Map is produced at approximately 1:1,750,000 and includes regional insets.

It is designed for travellers and researchers requiring coverage from the northern coast to the country’s remote southern regions.

Current travel advice, border conditions and regional access information should always be checked separately.

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13. Mapping the Guianas

Mapworld’s current South America collection does not prominently list separate country maps for Guyana, Suriname or French Guiana.

For broader planning, the most useful options are:

• South America ITMB Travel Map;

• Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map;

• Northwestern South America — National Geographic Atlas Wall Map;

• Eastern South America — National Geographic Atlas Wall Map.

These provide continental or regional context, but travellers should obtain current local information and more detailed specialist mapping where required.

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Modern Wall Maps of South America

Folded maps are designed to travel.

Wall maps are designed to remain visible.

They are valuable for:

• route planning;

• schools and universities;

• travel agencies;

• businesses;

• mining and resources;

• international relations;

• environmental organisations;

• home display;

• marking completed journeys.

Browse the complete Wall Maps of Countries and Regions collection.

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14. South America Political Wall Map 990 × 1140 mm

The Best Large Political Map

The South America Political Wall Map is the strongest large political reference in the collection.

It is produced at approximately 1:7,000,000, measures 990 × 1140 mm, was designed by Mary Spence MBE and is made in Australia.

Choose it when:

• country boundaries are the priority;

• the map is for a classroom or boardroom;

• cities and political geography matter;

• several people need to view the map together;

• a large planning surface is required.

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15. South America Classic National Geographic Wall Maps

Standard Size: 599 × 770 mm

The South America Classic National Geographic 599 × 770 mm Wall Map is the best standard-sized modern wall map.

It is available in paper, laminated, canvas and timber hang-railed finishes.

Large Size: 908 × 1177 mm

The South America Classic National Geographic 908 × 1177 mm Wall Map provides the same broad cartographic style at a much larger scale.

It is better suited to:

• large classrooms;

• universities;

• offices;

• travel-planning rooms;

• libraries;

• prominent home display.

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16. South America Executive National Geographic Wall Map

The South America Executive Antique Style National Geographic Wall Map presents modern geography in a warmer, more restrained palette.

It is available at approximately 599 × 770 mm in paper, laminated, canvas and hang-railed finishes.

Choose the Classic style for:

• classrooms;

• strong colour contrast;

• contemporary interiors;

• visibility from a distance.

Choose the Executive style for:

• studies;

• libraries;

• boardrooms;

• traditional interiors;

• decorative wall display.

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17. National Geographic Atlas Wall Maps

Mapworld offers several atlas-derived maps that divide South America into physical, political and regional views.

Complete Continental Maps

• South America Physical — National Geographic Atlas Map

• South America Political — National Geographic Atlas Map

Regional Maps

• Northwestern South America — National Geographic Atlas Map

• Eastern South America — National Geographic Atlas Map

• Southern South America — National Geographic Atlas Map

The regional atlas maps are particularly useful where the complete continent would provide insufficient detail. Mapworld’s South America collection currently lists all five titles.

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18. Children’s Maps of South America

Children’s Physical Map

The Children’s Physical Map of South America 668 × 905 mm shows the continent’s major landforms, ocean-floor relief and geographic facts.

It was designed with clear, colour-blind-friendly styling and is made in Australia.

Children’s Political Map

The Children’s Political Map of South America 668 × 905 mm is the complementary choice for countries, capitals and political geography.

These maps are particularly suitable for:

• primary classrooms;

• children’s bedrooms;

• libraries;

• home schooling;

• introductory geography.

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Historical Maps of South America

Historical maps show more than old boundaries.

They reveal how the continent was understood, named and represented during different periods.

South America — 1921

The South America Wall Map published in 1921 by National Geographic is one of the strongest historical maps in the collection.

It was originally published by National Geographic in October 1921, is reproduced at approximately 1:8,500,000 and measures about 655 × 934 mm. It combines political, climatic, economic and physical information and is available in paper, laminated, canvas and timber hang-railed finishes.

Further Historical Editions

Mapworld also offers:

• South America — National Geographic 1937

• South America — National Geographic 1942

• South America — National Geographic 1950

• Eastern South America — National Geographic 1955

• Southern South America — National Geographic 1958

• Eastern South America — National Geographic 1962

Together, these provide a valuable sequence for collectors, historians and schools studying political, economic and transport change across the twentieth century.

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Building the Ideal South America Map Kit

Colombia, Ecuador and Peru

Carry:

• South America ITMB Travel Map

• Colombia ITMB Map

• Ecuador & Galápagos National Geographic Map

• Peru ITMB Map

• Cuzco & Peru South ITMB Map

Peru, Bolivia and Northern Chile

Carry:

• Peru National Geographic Map

• Bolivia ITMB Map

• Chile ITMB Map

• Santiago, Northern & Central Chile ITMB Map

Argentina, Uruguay and Southern Brazil

Carry:

• Argentina ITMB Map

• Buenos Aires & Argentina North East ITMB Map

• Uruguay & Montevideo ITMB Map

• Brazil Michelin Map 764

Patagonia

Carry:

• Patagonia Rail & Road ITMB Map

• Argentina National Geographic Map

• Chile National Geographic Map

• Torres del Paine Trekking Map 2026

Brazil and the Amazon

Carry:

• Brazil ITMB Map

• Brazil Michelin Map 764

• Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map

• Rio de Janeiro & Brazil East Coast ITMB Map

Ecuador and the Galápagos

Carry:

• Ecuador ITMB Map

• Ecuador & Galápagos National Geographic Map

• Galápagos National Geographic Map

• Galápagos Islands, Quito & Guayaquil ITMB Map

Classroom or Office

Choose:

• South America Political Wall Map

• South America Classic National Geographic Wall Map

• South America Physical Atlas Wall Map

• Amazon National Geographic Wall Map

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Paper, Laminated or Waterproof?

Folded Paper Maps

Paper maps are best for:

• lightweight travel;

• economical map kits;

• permanent notes;

• conventional road touring;

• carrying several country maps.

Laminated Maps

Mapworld offers laminated versions of many ITMB products.

Lamination provides:

• a wipe-clean surface;

• compatibility with suitable whiteboard markers;

• compatibility with removable map dots;

• protection from moisture and handling;

• a useful flat planning map.

Folded paper maps are flattened before lamination, so faint original fold lines may remain visible.

Borch Soft-Laminated Maps

Borch maps are best for:

• compact daily use;

• city travel;

• frequent unfolding;

• wipe-clean notes;

• carrying in a day bag.

Waterproof Adventure Maps

National Geographic Adventure Maps are particularly suitable for:

• trekking;

• national parks;

• remote travel;

• cycling;

• humid climates;

• outdoor use;

• repeated folding.

Wall Maps

Wall maps are best for:

• planning before departure;

• schools;

• universities;

• travel agencies;

• businesses;

• family-history projects;

• marking completed journeys;

• decorative display.

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Wall-Map Finishes

Many Mapworld South America wall maps are available in several finishes.

Paper

Printed on premium matte paper and suitable for:

• framing;

• pinboards;

• collectors;

• economical display.

Laminated

Encapsulated in protective laminate and suitable for:

• classrooms;

• whiteboard markers;

• map dots;

• frequent handling;

• planning rooms.

Laminated with Timber Hang Rails

Professionally mounted with natural timber top and bottom rails and hanging cord.

Canvas

Printed on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas using pigment-based inks for a premium, low-glare finish.

Canvas with Timber Hang Rails

Combines canvas presentation with natural timber rails.

Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed maps, as each is professionally mounted.

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Current Information Matters More Than Printed Distance

A printed map provides geography and route context.

It cannot report:

• a road closed today;

• a border crossing operating reduced hours;

• landslides in the Andes;

• flooding in the Amazon Basin;

• snow on a mountain pass;

• ferry or railway changes;

• wildfire conditions;

• permit restrictions;

• a national-park trail closure.

Before and during travel, check:

• official government travel advice;

• local transport operators;

• road authorities;

• national parks;

• accommodation providers;

• tour and trekking operators;

• current weather forecasts;

• local guides.

Use the map to understand the region.

Use current information to decide whether a route should be travelled today.

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Why Paper Maps Still Matter in South America

South America is a continent where scale matters.

A digital map may show a route as a continuous line without communicating:

• the altitude;

• the road surface;

• the mountain range;

• the desert;

• the river basin;

• the distance between settlements;

• the international border;

• the absence of realistic alternatives.

A paper map allows travellers to:

• see the complete journey;

• compare routes;

• understand the Andes as a continental system;

• recognise the scale of the Amazon;

• place cities within countries and regions;

• identify border relationships;

• question unrealistic digital routing;

• maintain an independent backup;

• plan together.

Digital navigation answers:

Where is my next turn?

A paper map answers:

Where does this journey belong within South America?

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Why Buy South America Maps from Mapworld?

The Mapworld South America collection extends far beyond one continental sheet.

It includes:

• continental travel maps;

• country road maps;

• waterproof adventure maps;

• laminated Borch maps;

• city maps;

• Amazon maps;

• Galápagos maps;

• Patagonia maps;

• Torres del Paine trekking maps;

• political and physical wall maps;

• National Geographic atlas maps;

• children’s maps;

• historical maps.

The broader Wall Maps of Countries and Regions collection adds further options for education, business, institutional use and display.

A general retailer may offer one map of South America.

Mapworld provides the continental overview, national detail, specialist regional mapping and wall maps needed to understand the continent properly.

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Complete Mapworld South America Directory

Continental Maps

• South America ITMB Travel Map

• South America Political Wall Map 990 × 1140 mm

• South America Classic National Geographic 599 × 770 mm

• South America Classic National Geographic 908 × 1177 mm

• South America Executive National Geographic Map

Argentina and Uruguay

• Argentina ITMB Map

• Argentina National Geographic Folded Map

• Argentina Borch Laminated Map

• Argentina South & Tierra del Fuego ITMB Map

• Buenos Aires & Argentina North East ITMB Map

• Buenos Aires Borch Laminated Map

• Uruguay & Montevideo ITMB Map

Chile and Patagonia

• Chile ITMB Map

• Chile National Geographic Folded Map

• Chile Borch Laminated Map

• Chile & Argentina Michelin Map 788

• Santiago, Northern & Central Chile ITMB Map

• Easter Island & Santiago ITMB Map

• Patagonia Rail & Road ITMB Map

• Torres del Paine Trekking Map 2026

• Torres del Paine National Park Wall Map

• Magallanes Region Wall Map — Chile

Brazil and the Amazon

• Brazil ITMB Map

• Brazil Michelin Map 764

• Brazil Borch Laminated Map

• Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map

• Rio de Janeiro & Brazil East Coast ITMB Map

• Rio de Janeiro Borch Laminated Map

• Amazon National Geographic Wall Map

Peru and Bolivia

• Peru ITMB Map

• Peru National Geographic Folded Map

• Peru Borch Laminated Map

• Cuzco & Peru South ITMB Map

• Bolivia ITMB Map

• Paraguay & Bolivia South ITMB Map

Ecuador and the Galápagos

• Ecuador ITMB Map

• Ecuador Borch Laminated Map

• Ecuador & Galápagos National Geographic Map

• Galápagos National Geographic Folded Map

• Galápagos Islands, Quito & Guayaquil ITMB Map

• Quito & Central Ecuador ITMB Map

Northern South America

• Colombia ITMB Map

• Venezuela ITMB Map

National Geographic Atlas Wall Maps

• South America Physical Atlas Map

• South America Political Atlas Map

• Northwestern South America Atlas Map

• Eastern South America Atlas Map

• Southern South America Atlas Map

Children’s Maps

• Children’s Physical Map of South America

• Children’s Political Map of South America

Historical National Geographic Maps

• South America — 1921

• South America — 1937

• South America — 1942

• South America — 1950

• Eastern South America — 1955

• Southern South America — 1958

• Eastern South America — 1962

Relevant Collections

• South America Maps and Guides

• Wall Maps of Countries and Regions

• Vintage National Geographic Maps

• Historical Maps

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Final Verdict

The best map for South America is not one map.

It is a layered mapping system.

Best Overall Continental Map

The South America ITMB Travel Map is the strongest single folded overview for multi-country travel.

Best Argentina Map

The Argentina ITMB Map provides the best general travel coverage, while the National Geographic Argentina Map offers greater durability.

Best Patagonia Map

The Patagonia Rail & Road ITMB Map is the best broad cross-border reference.

Best Chile Map

The Chile ITMB Map is the strongest general national map, supported by the Chile National Geographic Map for waterproof outdoor use.

Best Brazil Map

The Brazil Michelin Map 764 is the strongest conventional road map. The Brazil ITMB Map provides broader national and overland context.

Best Amazon Map

The Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map is the best folded regional map, while the Amazon National Geographic Wall Map is the strongest display and educational map.

Best Peru Map

The Peru ITMB Map is the strongest general national map. Add the Cuzco & Peru South ITMB Map for Machu Picchu, Cusco and the southern Andes.

Best Ecuador and Galápagos Map

The Ecuador & Galápagos National Geographic Map is the strongest durable combined map.

Best Large Wall Map

The South America Political Wall Map 990 × 1140 mm is the strongest large political reference.

Best National Geographic Wall Map

The South America Classic 599 × 770 mm Map is ideal for standard wall spaces, while the 908 × 1177 mm edition is better for classrooms and large offices.

Best Historical Map

The South America National Geographic Map from 1921 provides the strongest combination of historical importance, detail and decorative character.

Best Complete Map Kit

For a substantial journey, carry:

• one continental map;

• one map for each principal country;

• specialist maps for Patagonia, the Amazon, Cusco or the Galápagos;

• waterproof mapping for outdoor travel;

• offline digital navigation;

• current local information.

South America rewards travellers who step back far enough to see the complete journey.

The right maps will not shorten the Andes, open a snow-covered pass or guarantee that a remote road remains passable.

They will, however, help travellers understand:

• how the continent fits together;

• where countries and great landscapes meet;

• why the Andes, Amazon and Patagonia require separate mapping;

• how cities connect by road, rail, river and air;

• when a national, regional, city, trekking or wall map is required.

Across a continent of such scale and drama, that wider understanding is invaluable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best overall map of South America?

The South America ITMB Travel Map is the best general continental map for multi-country travel.

What is the scale of the South America ITMB Map?

It is produced at approximately 1:4,000,000 and measures around 690 × 1000 mm.

Do I need separate country maps?

Yes. A continental map explains the complete journey, but country maps provide the greater detail needed for daily travel.

What is the best map of Argentina?

The Argentina ITMB Map is the best general option. The Argentina National Geographic Map is the best waterproof alternative.

What is the best map of Patagonia?

The Patagonia Rail & Road ITMB Map is the strongest broad cross-border map.

What is the best map for Torres del Paine?

The Torres del Paine Folded Trekking Map 2026 provides detailed 1:40,000 mapping of the O, W and Q circuits.

What is the best map of Chile?

The Chile ITMB Map is the best general travel map. The National Geographic map is better for waterproof field use.

What is the best map of Brazil?

The Brazil Michelin Map 764 is the strongest conventional road map. The Brazil ITMB Map provides broad national coverage.

What is the best map of the Amazon?

The Amazon & Brazil North ITMB Map is the best folded regional option.

What is the best map of Peru?

The Peru ITMB Map is the best general map. Add the Cuzco & Peru South map for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

What is the best map of the Galápagos?

The Galápagos National Geographic Folded Map is the strongest dedicated island map. The ITMB map also includes Quito and Guayaquil.

What is the best wall map of South America?

The South America Political Wall Map is the best large political reference. The National Geographic Classic maps are stronger for combined political and physical presentation.

Are South America wall maps available laminated?

Yes. Many Mapworld wall maps are available in paper, laminated, laminated with timber hang rails, canvas and canvas with timber hang rails.

Can laminated maps be written on?

Yes. Laminated maps can be marked with suitable whiteboard markers and wiped clean.

Can removable map dots be used?

Yes. Map dots are useful for marking destinations, routes, schools, offices, customers and completed journeys.

Are South America maps available on canvas?

Selected wall maps are available on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas using pigment-based inks.

How long do hang-railed maps take?

Please allow up to 10 working days because each hang-railed map is professionally mounted.

Does Mapworld sell historical maps of South America?

Yes. The range includes National Geographic maps from 1921, 1937, 1942, 1950, 1955, 1958 and 1962.

Where can I buy South America maps in Australia?

Mapworld stocks continental, national, regional, city, trekking, wall and historical maps of South America with Australia-wide delivery.

Written by Christopher O’Keeffe
Managing Director of Mapworld and specialist in maps, navigation and cartographic products.

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