South America Map Unlabeled
Introduction
South America is a continent known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and friendly people. From the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains, there are countless places to explore and experiences to be had. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, South America has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, located in Peru’s Sacred Valley, is one of the most iconic landmarks in South America. Built by the Incas in the 15th century, this ancient citadel is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors each year.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
Iguazu Falls is a series of waterfalls located on the border of Argentina and Brazil. It is one of the largest waterfalls in the world and is a breathtaking sight to behold. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close to the falls or explore the surrounding national parks.
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
Christ the Redeemer is a statue of Jesus Christ located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It stands at 98 feet tall and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the mountain to see the statue up close.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions in South America are certainly worth visiting, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover. Some of our favorites include:
Valparaiso, Chile
Valparaiso is a colorful coastal city in Chile known for its bohemian vibe and street art scene. Visitors can wander through the city’s winding streets and take in the vibrant murals that cover many of the buildings.
Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
Colonia del Sacramento is a charming colonial town located on the banks of the Rio de la Plata in Uruguay. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and scenic waterfront.
The Coffee Region, Colombia
The Coffee Region in Colombia is a lush, mountainous area that produces some of the best coffee in the world. Visitors can take tours of coffee plantations, explore charming towns like Salento, and hike through the stunning Cocora Valley.
Food Scene
The food scene in South America is incredibly diverse and flavorful. Some must-try dishes include:
Ceviche, Peru
Ceviche is a popular seafood dish that originated in Peru. It typically consists of raw fish marinated in citrus juices and served with onions, chili peppers, and other seasonings.
Churrasco, Argentina
Churrasco is a type of grilled steak that is popular throughout South America, but especially in Argentina. It is typically served with chimichurri sauce, which is made from parsley, garlic, and olive oil.
Feijoada, Brazil
Feijoada is a hearty stew made with black beans, pork, and sausage. It is a staple of Brazilian cuisine and is often served with rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and orange slices.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling in South America can be affordable if you know where to look. Some tips for saving money include:
Eat like a local
Street food and local markets are often much cheaper than restaurants, and they offer a chance to try authentic cuisine.
Stay in hostels
Hostels are a great budget-friendly option for accommodations. They often offer communal spaces and activities, making them a great way to meet other travelers.
Take public transportation
Taking public transportation, such as buses or trains, is usually much cheaper than taking taxis or renting a car.
Outdoor Adventures
South America is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Some top activities include:
Hiking the Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail is a four-day trek that takes hikers through stunning mountain landscapes and ancient Incan ruins. The trail ends at Machu Picchu.
Surfing in Punta del Este, Uruguay
Punta del Este is a popular beach town in Uruguay that is known for its excellent waves. Surfing lessons are available for beginners.
Paragliding in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Paragliding is a thrilling way to see Rio de Janeiro from a new perspective. Flights typically last around 20 minutes and offer stunning views of the city and coastline.
Historical Landmarks
South America is home to many historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the continent’s past. Some notable sites include:
The Plaza de Mayo, Argentina
The Plaza de Mayo is a historic square in Buenos Aires that has been the site of many important political events throughout Argentina’s history.
The Moai statues, Easter Island
Easter Island is known for its mysterious Moai statues, which were carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 13th and 16th centuries. Visitors can explore the island and learn about its history and culture.
The Cathedral of Cusco, Peru
The Cathedral of Cusco is a colonial-era cathedral located in the city’s main square. It was built in the 16th century and is known for its ornate baroque architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities
South America is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that are fun for all ages. Some ideas include:
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands are a unique destination that offer the chance to see wildlife up close, including giant tortoises, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies.
The Pantanal Wetlands, Brazil
The Pantanal Wetlands are a vast area of wetlands in Brazil that are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, capybaras, and anacondas.
The La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Costa Rica
The La Paz Waterfall Gardens are a series of waterfalls and gardens located outside of San Jose, Costa Rica. Visitors can see wildlife, hike through the rainforest, and learn about the local ecosystems.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, South America has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Some ideas include:
The Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat, located in Bolivia. Visitors can take tours of the salt flat and see stunning landscapes, including colorful lagoons and geysers.
The Huacachina Oasis, Peru
The Huacachina Oasis is a small desert town located in southern Peru. Visitors can take dune buggy rides and go sandboarding in the surrounding sand dunes.
The Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth and offers a unique landscape of sand dunes, geysers, and salt flats. Visitors can take tours of the desert and see stunning sunsets and starry skies.
Natural Wonders
South America is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Some must-see sites include:
The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil/Peru
The Amazon Rainforest is the largest rainforest in the world and is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can take tours of the rainforest and see everything from monkeys to pink dolphins.
The Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
The Torres del Paine National Park is a stunning park located in southern Chile. It is known for its crystal-clear lakes, towering mountains, and unique wildlife, including guanacos and Andean condors.
The Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia
The Uyuni Salt Flat is not only a unique destination but also a great natural wonder. The vast, white expanse of salt flats stretching out to the horizon is breathtaking. Visitors can witness the ‘mirror effect’ of the salt flats during the rainy season.
Vibrant Nightlife
South America is famous for its vibrant nightlife, and there are plenty of cities where you can dance the night away. Some of our favorites include:
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is known for its lively nightlife, with everything from samba clubs to rooftop bars. The Lapa neighborhood is particularly popular for its bars and music venues.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a city that never sleeps, with