Introducing South America
You haven’t really travelled until you’ve taken on South America. Thirteen countries strong, the continent is home to astounding natural and cultural wonders, including the snowcapped peaks of the Andes, thousands of kilometres of magnificent white-sand beaches, captivating colonial towns and indigenous villages, and the Amazon rainforest – home to more plant and animal species than anywhere else on earth.
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The challenge is deciding where to begin. With so much choice, it’s as though the continent was built for travel; a place that excites, thrills, challenges and infuriates.
Sweat yourself dizzy on an Amazon canoe ride before ending the day caiman-watching on a black-water lagoon. Brave a white-knuckle bus ride down Peruvian slopes and be astounded by endless Andean vistas. Endure Patagonia’s wind-driven rain while chasing life-affirming sunsets or simply lose yourself (and possibly your belongings) in the break-neck chaos of Buenos Aires or Salvador.
South America, however is not just about breathtaking sights - its stunning soundtrack is sure to leave your feet a-tapping long after you're back in the day job. Samba spices up the sandy streets of Brazilian beach towns, Argentine folklórica (folk music) trickles out of truck radios in the pampas and the jolting rhythm of cumbia making those Andean bus rides even more absurd.
However, when it comes to experiencing this incredible land the real reward is undoubtably the South American spirit. The entire continent approaches life with the enthusiasm of an old-fashioned road trip: windows down and stereo blaring. South America is a continent that engulfs you and changes you – your state of mind, your outlook on life. As soon as you step foot on South American soil, the transformation begins.
Ready to go?
These tours & activities make it easy:
- Trek the legendary Inca trail to Machu Picchu
- Explore the soaring Inca heartland
- Experience the best of the Patagonian Andes
- Cruise the Southern Galapagos Islands
Last updated: Jan 22, 2013
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South America
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South America Overview
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Our Top Picks For South America
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1 Machu Picchu, Peru
Rugged treks to awe-inspiring ancient Inca ruins hidden in cloud forests
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2 Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Stunning volcanic islands teem with fearless animals, offering the wildlife experience of a lifetime
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3 Amazon, Brazil
Steamy jungles packed with wildlife and lingering rivers set the stage for unforgettable adventure
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4 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The breathtaking city of samba and beach culture, with one of the world's wildest parties
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5 Cartagena, Colombia
Architectural gem of the continent, a city graced with winding alleys and bougainvillea-strewn balconies