10 Reasons Why South America Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

South America is a continent that offers a plethora of experiences to travellers. From the stunning natural landscapes to the vibrant cultures, there are many reasons why South America should be on your travel bucket list. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 reasons why you should visit South America.

Natural Wonders

South America boasts some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, such as the Amazon Rainforest, Iguazu Falls, and the Galapagos Islands. These breathtaking destinations offer opportunities for adventure, wildlife viewing, and unique experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Rich Culture

South America is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro, the continent is steeped in history and traditions that are waiting to be explored.

Delicious Cuisine

South American cuisine is a unique fusion of indigenous, European, and African flavours. From ceviche in Peru to churrasco in Brazil, the food in South America is a highlight of any trip to the continent.

Beaches

South America is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including Copacabana in Brazil and the beaches of Cartagena in Colombia. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an adventure in the waves, South America has a beach for you.

Wine

South America is home to some of the world’s best wine regions, such as Mendoza in Argentina and the Colchagua Valley in Chile. These regions offer wine lovers the chance to sample some of the finest wines in the world while enjoying stunning scenery.

Adventure

South America is a playground for adventure seekers. From hiking in the Andes Mountains to surfing in Brazil, the continent offers endless opportunities for adrenaline junkies.

Wildlife

South America is home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife, such as llamas, alpacas, penguins, and jaguars. Visitors can experience these animals up close in their natural habitats, creating unforgettable memories.

Festivals

South America is known for its vibrant and colourful festivals, such as Carnival in Brazil and Inti Raymi in Peru. These celebrations offer visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy music, dance, and food.

Hospitality

South Americans are known for their warmth and hospitality. Visitors to the continent can expect to be welcomed with open arms and treated like family by locals.

Value for Money

South America offers excellent value for money compared to other travel destinations. Accommodation, food, and activities are generally affordable, allowing travellers to experience more of the continent without breaking the bank.

South American History

South American history is rich and diverse, with indigenous cultures dating back thousands of years. The continent was first colonised by the Spanish in the 16th century, and over the centuries, South America has undergone significant political and social changes.

Before the arrival of the Spanish, the region was home to numerous indigenous cultures, including the Incas, Mayans, and Aztecs. These civilizations developed advanced agricultural and architectural practices, and their legacy can still be seen in the ruins of their cities and temples.

In 1492, Christopher Columbus arrived in the Caribbean, setting off a wave of European exploration and colonisation of the Americas. The Spanish soon began to expand their empire, conquering much of South America in the 16th century. They established cities and forts, built churches and cathedrals, and introduced Christianity and European customs and traditions.

During the colonial period, South America was characterised by the exploitation of indigenous labour and resources, with the Spanish extracting gold, silver, and other precious metals from mines and plantations. Indigenous peoples were forced into slavery or forced labour, and many died from disease and overwork.

In the early 19th century, South America began to break free from Spanish colonial rule, with revolutions and uprisings leading to the establishment of independent nations. Simon Bolivar, known as the “Liberator,” played a key role in the independence movements, leading forces against Spanish troops in several countries.

In the decades that followed, South America was marked by political instability, with frequent coups and changes in government. The 20th century saw the rise of populist leaders such as Juan Peron in Argentina and Getulio Vargas in Brazil, as well as military dictatorships in countries like Chile, Argentina, and Brazil.

In recent years, South America has seen significant economic growth and political stability, with democratically elected governments and increased foreign investment. However, the region still faces challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.

Today, South America is home to a rich cultural heritage and a diverse population of over 400 million people. Its history is a testament to the resilience and creativity of its peoples, who have faced challenges and overcome them to build vibrant societies and cultures.

The Diverse Geography of South America

South America is a continent of stunning natural beauty, with a diverse geography that includes mountains, rainforests, deserts, and coastal plains. Here are some of the key geographic features of South America:

Andes Mountains

The Andes stretch over 7,000 kilometres along the western coast of South America, from Venezuela to Chile. They are the world’s longest continental mountain range, and include some of the highest peaks in the Americas, such as Aconcagua in Argentina and Huascarán in Peru.

Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon is the largest rainforest in the world, covering over 6.7 million square kilometres across nine South American countries. It is home to a staggering array of plant and animal species, including jaguars, anacondas, and the pink river dolphin.

Patagonia

Located in southern Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is a region of stunning natural beauty, characterised by vast open spaces, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. It is a popular destination for hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor adventure.

Atacama Desert

The Atacama is one of the driest deserts in the world, covering an area of over 100,000 square kilometres in northern Chile. It is home to unique landscapes, such as the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) and the El Tatio Geysers.

Galapagos Islands

Located off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a unique ecosystem known for their diverse wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. The islands are a popular destination for ecotourism and scientific research.

Angel Falls

Located in Venezuela, Angel Falls is the world’s highest waterfall, with a drop of over 979 metres. It is a popular destination for adventure tourism, with opportunities for hiking, river rafting, and wildlife viewing.

Iguazu Falls

Located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is a spectacular natural wonder, comprising over 275 waterfalls that span 2.7 kilometres. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for tourists.

Coastal Plains

South America has a long coastline, with a variety of coastal plains that support diverse ecosystems and human settlements. The Amazon River basin, the La Plata River basin, and the Orinoco River basin are among the largest river basins in South America and support important agricultural and fishing industries.

South America’s Varied Cultures

South America is home to a rich and diverse array of cultures, shaped by indigenous traditions, European colonisation, and immigration from other parts of the world. Here are some of the key cultural features of South America:

Indigenous cultures

South America has a long history of indigenous cultures, with many different ethnic groups living in the continent for thousands of years. These groups have unique languages, customs, and traditions, and their legacy can be seen in the art, music, and architecture of South America.

Spanish and Portuguese influences

The Spanish and Portuguese colonised much of South America in the 16th century, bringing with them their language, religion, and cultural traditions. This legacy can be seen in the architecture of colonial cities such as Lima, Cusco, and Cartagena, as well as in the Catholic churches and cathedrals that are common throughout the continent.

Afro-Latin culture

African slaves were brought to South America to work in plantations and mines during the colonial period, and their cultural influence can be seen in the music, dance, and religion of many South American countries. In countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela, Afro-Latin culture has a strong presence, with traditional music styles such as samba, cumbia, and salsa.

Immigrant cultures

South America has received significant waves of immigration from other parts of the world, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries. Italian, German, and Japanese immigrants, among others, have left their mark on South American culture, particularly in the arts, cuisine, and music.

Indigenous art

South America has a rich tradition of indigenous art, with unique styles of pottery, weaving, and painting that reflect the cultural heritage of different ethnic groups. The Nazca Lines in Peru, for example, are a series of ancient geoglyphs that are thought to have been created by the Nazca culture over 2,000 years ago.

Literature and cinema

South America has produced many renowned writers and filmmakers, whose works reflect the continent’s cultural diversity and political struggles. Authors such as Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Mario Vargas Llosa, and Paulo Coelho have achieved international acclaim, while films such as City of God, Y Tu Mamá También, and The Secret in Their Eyes have won awards at international film festivals.

South America Cuisines

South America is a continent with a rich and diverse culinary heritage, influenced by indigenous traditions, European colonisation, and immigrant cultures. Here are some of the key cuisines and dishes of South America:

Peruvian cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is considered one of the most diverse and flavorful in South America, with influences from indigenous, Spanish, and Asian cultures. Popular dishes include ceviche, a seafood dish marinated in citrus juice; lomo saltado, a stir-fry of beef, vegetables, and French fries; and ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew.

Brazilian cuisine

Brazilian cuisine is known for its bold flavours, with a focus on meat, seafood, and tropical fruits. Popular dishes include feijoada, a hearty stew of black beans and pork; churrasco, a grilled meat platter; and moqueca, a seafood stew cooked with coconut milk.

Argentine cuisine

Argentine cuisine is influenced by European traditions, particularly Italian and Spanish, and is known for its high-quality meats and wines. Popular dishes include asado, a barbecue of beef ribs and sausages; empanadas, stuffed pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables; and milanesa, a breaded and fried cutlet of beef, chicken, or veal.

Colombian cuisine

Colombian cuisine is characterized by its use of regional ingredients, including plantains, corn, and yuca. Popular dishes include bandeja paisa, a hearty platter of beans, rice, meat, and fried plantains; arepas, cornmeal cakes filled with cheese or meat; and sancocho, a chicken and vegetable stew.

Chilean cuisine

Chilean cuisine is influenced by Spanish, indigenous, and European traditions, and is known for its seafood, meat, and wine. Popular dishes include pastel de choclo, a corn and beef casserole; empanadas, stuffed pastries filled with meat, cheese, or seafood; and curanto, a seafood and meat stew cooked in a pit oven.

Ecuadorian cuisine

Ecuadorian cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients and diverse regional dishes. Popular dishes include ceviche, a seafood dish marinated in citrus juice; locro, a potato and cheese soup; and hornado, a roasted pork dish.

When is the best time to visit South America

The best time to visit South America depends on several factors, such as the specific countries and regions you plan to visit, your budget, and your preferred activities. Here are some general guidelines for when to visit South America:

High season

The high season in South America typically runs from December to February, which is summer in the Southern Hemisphere. During this time, many of the popular tourist destinations, such as Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Machu Picchu, can be crowded and expensive. However, this is also a great time to enjoy beaches, outdoor activities, and festivals, such as Carnival in Brazil.

Shoulder season

The shoulder season in South America runs from March to May and September to November. During this time, the weather is generally mild, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower. This is a great time to visit places like Patagonia, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Galapagos Islands.

Low season

The low season in South America runs from June to August, which is winter in the Southern Hemisphere. During this time, many tourist destinations are less crowded and offer lower prices, but the weather can be cold and wet. This is a great time to visit places like Chilean Patagonia, where you can experience winter sports, or the Andes Mountains, where you can go skiing.

Other factors

Keep in mind that South America is a large continent with diverse climates and regions, so the best time to visit can vary depending on where you’re going. For example, the Amazon Rainforest is best visited during the dry season, which runs from June to November, while the best time to visit the Atacama Desert in northern Chile is during the cooler months of March to November.

20 Must see sights in South America

South America is a continent filled with natural wonders, historic sites, and vibrant cities. Here are 20 must-see sights to add to your South America travel itinerary:

1. Machu Picchu, Peru: This 15th-century Incan citadel is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
2. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil: These spectacular waterfalls straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil.
3. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: This archipelago is home to unique wildlife species, such as giant tortoises and marine iguanas.
4. Atacama Desert, Chile: This otherworldly landscape is one of the driest deserts in the world, and is known for its stargazing opportunities.
5. Amazon Rainforest, Brazil/Peru: The largest rainforest in the world is home to diverse plant and animal species.
6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: This vibrant city is known for its beaches, carnival, and iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer.
7. Buenos Aires, Argentina: This cosmopolitan city is known for its European-style architecture, tango music, and steak.
8. Lake Titicaca, Peru/Bolivia: This high-altitude lake is the largest in South America and is home to unique cultures, such as the Uros people.
9. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile: This national park is known for its jagged peaks, glaciers, and hiking trails.
10. Colca Canyon, Peru: This canyon is one of the deepest in the world and is known for its stunning views and condor sightings.
11. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia: This salt flat is the largest in the world and offers surreal photo opportunities.
12. Angel Falls, Venezuela: This waterfall is the highest in the world and is located in a remote jungle setting.
13. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil: This iconic statue overlooks the city of Rio de Janeiro and offers stunning views.
14. Easter Island, Chile: This remote island is known for its mysterious moai statues and unique Polynesian culture.
15. Cartagena, Colombia: This historic city is known for its colorful colonial architecture and lively street life.
16. Huayna Picchu, Peru: This peak offers a challenging hike and stunning views of Machu Picchu.
17. La Paz, Bolivia: This high-altitude city is known for its vibrant markets and unique street food.
18. Montevideo, Uruguay: This laid-back capital city is known for its beaches, architecture, and mate culture.
19. The Inca Trail, Peru: This hiking trail takes visitors through stunning Andean landscapes and past Incan ruins.
20. Salvador, Brazil: This historic city is known for its Afro-Brazilian culture, music, and cuisine.