Summer Vacation South America

Where should You travel to in South America?

 

The Top 5 South American Countries you should definitely consider visiting this year and why. 

With a grand total of 12 countries packed into the 4^th largest continent in the world, South America easily presents a lot of terrain and culture to cover. Overwhelmed though? Fear not, for here are the Top 5 Countries that our guests and visitors from around the world have agreed (time and time again) are a safe destination to travel to! First things first though.

Why should I visit South America?

South America is, simply put, a continent teeming with superlatives. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the most of what our fantastic planet has to offer, then South America may very well be the place to visit. This enormous continent comes complete with the longest mountain range in the world, the world’s largest river basin, the driest place on earth, the second largest river (after the Nile), and one of the greatest concentrations of biodiversity on our planet. Not to mention, the continent is home to a vast array of rich cultures, history, traditions, food, and once-in-a-lifetime places to visit.

1. Ecuador & the Galapagos

When it comes to exploring South America, there’s no better place to start than right from the middle of the world! Straddling the equator, the aptly named country of Ecuador is one of the smaller Andean nations, but don’t let its size fool you – this humble place is one of 17 megadiverse countries, packing one of the highest levels of biodiversity per square kilometer in the whole world. That being said: you don’t need to go far within the country to discover new and fascinating things. Ecuador is also home to the world’s first and second UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

 

The Galapagos

 

2. Colombia

Colombia holds a colourful place in South America’s long list of countries that are a must-visit. It has gained tremendous appeal thanks in large part to its eclectic culture, numerous visitor sites, festivals, food, and, of course – its globally renowned coffee. With the rise of a stable government and more austerity with respect to crime and violence, Colombia has blossomed into an incredibly fun and safe destination to travel to.

City of Bogota

 

3. Peru

Hailed for its place as one of the cradles of Inca civilization, Peru shines with its numerous visitor sites that contain ancient ruins, massive hieroglyphs, and incredible valleys teeming with history and rich soil. The people of Peru are also immensely proud of their heritage, and happily welcome all visitors that wish to admire the impressive features of their safe country.

Machu Picchu

 

4. Chile

There are simply so many things to do in Chile, that it’s hard to know where to even begin. The country is, indeed, vast, but this is exactly what makes it an excellent place, as it caters to a wide gamut of tastes and interests. Nature lovers, artists, wine and food connoisseurs, hikers, climbers, and explorers alike will all easily fall in love with what Chile has to offer.

The Atacama Desert

Chile happens to be the home of the world’s driest desert, with parts of its terrain regularly going without rain for up to several years at a time. Nevertheless, the vistas here are astounding: vast swathes of colorful terrain and a wide-open sky seem to go on forever under a scorching sun, all of which then cool down under one of the starriest skies you’ll ever rest your eyes on.

The Torres del Paine National Park (Patagonia)

Grey Glacier is one of the most fascinating places you can see while visiting this National Park!

The Torres del Paine National Park is a constant draw due to its postcard-worthy landscapes and looming, tower-like slabs of the earth that rise up off in the distance. The National Park is also home to one of the largest glaciated areas in the world, which consequently means chilly weather conditions (even in summer) and yet, in spite of this, a notable presence of wildlife. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wild pumas! You can also either chose to hop aboard an Expedition Cruise or explore the deeper regions of Patagonia on your own.

5. Bolivia

Home to the highest capital city in the world, Bolivia shines with its authentic culture, spectacular scenery, and adventure activities. Native indigenous communities have managed to hold onto the greater part of their traditions, too, thanks in large part to the ill-fated Spanish Conquest, which didn’t manage to pierce through Bolivia’s harsh mountain landscapes and thick jungle.

Salar de Uyuni

Even though this looks photoshopped, it isn’t! This is how Salar de Uyuni looks like from January to February!

These mesmerizing salt plains are a big draw due to just how beautiful they look, particularly when they’re wet. Between February and March, with just a few centimeters of rain that falls during that period, the plains turn into the world’s largest mirror. They are also home to a wide array of birdlife, including flamingos which can occasionally be spotted feeding on the lakes.

La Paz

The world’s highest capital, with a wide array of indigenous markets and bustling streets.

Lake Titicaca

Hop aboard a boat and spend some time exploring the different, small islands that dot one of the world’s highest navigable lakes! Let the navy blue hues of Lake Titicaca swoon you into a relaxed state of wonder and tranquility as you admire the peaks of the Andean cordillera that line the distant horizon.