An often under visited continent, South America has so much to offer any type of traveler, from novice to someone who’s been around the world. South America has everything to offer from culture and art to adventure and history, there is literally something for everyone. So if you are planning a vacation soon and want to spice up your itinerary, check out the suggestions below and start booking!
Herding Llamas in Peru: If you are going to visit the continent, then you have to take some time to stop in Peru. Often known for Machu Picchu, there are some great local activities that are sure to make memories of a lifetime. Spend some time in the mountains of Cusco and shadow a local farmer to get a feel for what life is really like. Llamas are some of Peru’s most loved farm animals and you can easily set-up some time to practicing herding on a working farm.
Machu Picchu: Since we mentioned it earlier, this is something that should be on everyone’s bucket list. This fifteenth-century Peruvian Incan site has become one of the hottest destination for American travelers. Nestled high up on a mountain ridge about the Sacred Valley, the iconic site and historic sanctuary was built in classical Inca style and have been carefully restored, giving visitors a glimpse into life during the mid-1400s. Thousands of tourists walk the Inca Trail to visit Machu Picchu each year, and it can be accessed via hike that can be scheduled to last anywhere between one and five days.
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro: Brazil is an amazing country and worth visiting any time of year, but during Carnival something special happens. Carnival is a world-famous festival held annually right before Lent and is basically Mardi Gras on steroids. The massive event draws over 2 million people each year for daily parades, costumes, music, local food and parties everywhere you look.
Cruise on Lake Titicaca: Taking time to see this un-official natural wonder will leave you in awe. Take a classic reed boat dating back to pre-Columbian times to truly explore the Lake which boarders Peru and Bolivia. The area’s indigenous Uros people, who live today on man-made floating islands across the lake have become one of Peru’s largest attractions.
The Galapagos Islands: The islands first made famous by the great evolutionist Charles Darvin, is truly a wildlife lover’s dream. Visit for an introduction some animals that don’t live anywhere else in the world—blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, marine iguanas, tiny penguins, and more.
Wine Tasting in Argentina: The Argentinean province of Mendoza is famous for its world-class wine and is a must see for any wine enthusiast. Located at the foothills of the Andes, the vineyards—which offer breathtaking views—are planted at some of the world’s highest elevations. The region is best known for its Malbec, cabernet sauvignon, tempranillo and chardonnay varieties.
Antarctica: We bet you didn’t realize it was that close. Sailing to Antarctica is not an experience for the faint of heart. If you are serious out nature and outdoor adventure then this is for you, sail from South America and encounter seals, whales, penguins, and icebergs. Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Take a Trip Down the Amazon: The largest rainforest in the world, belongs to South America and is famed for its biodiversity. The rainforest is crisscrossed with thousands of rivers just waiting to be explored. You can rent a guide and take a canoe trip straight through the heart of the rainforest—seeing beaches and local villages along the way.
Iguazu Falls: We know its not one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, but it certainly is one of the most breathtaking. Iguazu’s famed “Devil’s Throat” has water pouring into it from three sides, and a person viewing it can be surrounding by almost 260 degrees of beauty.
Bolivian Salt Flats: Didn’t think you could walk on water? Well in Bolivia you can. Covering over 4,086 square miles is the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, which formed as a results of the transformations between prehistoric lakes. Unsettlingly flat, with seasonal flooding, the landscape creates an illusion that you are walking on water and offers the best Instagram photo ops you’ve ever seen.
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