We ended 2011 off with a trip around the best party cities of the world, and so far this year we have delved deep, exploring the best party cities in the USA, Europe, Canada, and Asia.

Today we’ll head south to that amazing continent nestled right between the Caribbean, South Pacific, and the South Atlantic Oceans, South America.

You can also click on the Country/City names to see listings and reviews of actual bars and clubs which you can go to! stop by and review some venues yourself if you have the chance, or leave us your thoughts below

So without further adieu, here are the top 11 party cities in South America:

#1 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Brazil’s little piece of paradise sits nestled among a deep blue sea etched with white-sand beaches, lush rainforests and breathtaking mountain ranges. Throw in some of the most beautiful people in the world, and there is no wonder Rio de Janeiro is not only consided paradise, but it has also made our list of the best party cities in South America.

#2 Buenos Aires, Argentina

Birthplace of the Tango, Buenos Aires knows how to throw a dance party. Although the bars don’t start hopping until midnight, and many dance clubs don’t open their doors until 2am, there are many places to pre-party in this hot Latin city before heading out to an all night dance party.

#3 La Paz, Bolivia

This “de facto” Bolivian capital city sits at a staggering 3,560 metres (11,875 feet) above sea level. Its elevation is probably one of the major factors that make it a great South American party city – the booze works a lot quicker here – but the many hot and sweaty nightclubs help as well. With a history of many travellers passing through the city, the locals are friendly and the offerings are plenty, from world-class bars, to happening nightclubs, La Paz is the place to party when in Bolivia.

#4 Santiago, Chile

The party in Santiago, Chile’s cosmopolitan capital city, starts as soon as the sun goes down. The mix of international tourists, university students and young professionals makes the Santiago club scene one of the best around. From dance clubs, discos, reggae bars, and everything in between, there are plenty of places to drink a cheap beer and dance until the wee hours of the morning.

#5 Bogota, Colombia

Once considered too dangerous to visit, Colombia is finally back on the list of travel destinations. Its alpine capital city, Bogota, is now one of Latin America’s urban highlights. Home to more than seven million people, Bogota has a thriving nightlife to match the bustle of its busy inhabitants, but when the party goes all night long, one wonders how much work actually gets done the next morning.

#6 Quito, Ecuador

Quito is broken into two distinct areas, ‘old town’ and ‘new town’. Old town is easily distinguishable by its renovated colonial buildings. New town, also know as gringolandia, is the exact opposite of old town, with its high-rises, hotels, bars and nightclubs. Old town is a great place to walk around during the day, but if you are looking for the real party you need to head over to Gringo Land, er, New Town.

#7 Asunción, Paraguay

Paraguay’s capital city, Asunción, can be both a beautiful travel destination, with its historical colonial buildings, and an amazing place to party, with it’s endless supply of nightclubs, cheap booze and beautiful women. Not being a ‘real’ travel destination, you won’t have to worry about inflated prices or tourist traps.

#8 Lima, Peru

Huge nightclubs with gorgeous terraces face the ocean, making the nightlife scene in this Peruvian capital one of the most unexpected party cities in South America. When looking for the party in Lima two of the best districts are Miraflores and Barranco. The clubs here open around 9pm and stay open until the early hours of the morning. Dress to impress, because with all the beautiful party people about you will want to make sure you are bringing your ‘A’ game.

#9 Georgetown, Guyana

Although Georgetown can feel like it has a tough exterior, with its decaying colonial architecture and unkempt parks, once the sun goes down the thriving night-life is very apparent. Come to think of it, for a people who love to party all night long it is no wonder the city looks like it has been on a bender.

#10 Montevideo, Uruguay

Montevideo is the capital city of Uruguay, and with a vibrant music and club scene that continues to thrive, with everything from cozy tango bars to modern beachfront discos, it is no wonder that Montevideo made the list of one of the top 11 party cities in South America.

#11 Caracas, Venezuela

Caracas, Venezuela’s capital city, offers a host of nightlife options for its clubbers, bar-hoppers and salsa aficionados. Known as some of the most die-hard partiers in Latin America, caraqueños are a friendly welcoming bunch who not only know how to party, but will also steer you away from the not so safe areas of the capital.

Author: Corey Rozon