TOP REASONS TO VISIT SOUTH AMERICA
Something for Everyone in South America
South America is an astoundingly diverse continent, rich in culture, landscapes, and experiences just waiting to be discovered. Here’s a roundup of some of our top reasons to visit, tailored to suit a variety of interests.
Whether you're a beach bunny eager to soak up the sun on stunning coastlines, an adrenaline junkie seeking thrilling adventures in the Andes, a history buff fascinated by ancient civilizations and their remnants, a nature lover captivated by breathtaking biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest, or a culture vulture eager to immerse yourself in vibrant local traditions and cuisines, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy and explore.
Read our personal travel blog by Rachel, when she travelled with her husband throughout
South America on her South America Adventures
Best Beaches and Coastal Escapes
Stunning Coastlines for Beach Bunnies
South America’s beaches are world-famous. While Brazil’s Copacabana and Ipanema steal the spotlight, there are plenty of lesser-known gems:
- Jericoacoara, Brazil – Nicknamed 'Jeri', this beach town is famed for its laid-back vibe and the rare 'Emerald Sunset'.
- Florianopolis, Brazil – A paradise for surfers and beach party lovers, offering a buzzing yet budget-friendly atmosphere.
- Los Roques, Venezuela – A snorkeller’s dream, home to 280 fish species in its crystal-clear waters.
Read Amy's first-hand account - Amy's Inca Journey: The Trail to Machu Picchu
World-Class Wine Regions
South America’s Wine Tourism Boom
Wine lovers are spoilt for choice in South America. Not only are the wines world-class, but the scenery is unforgettable too:
- Mendoza, Argentina – Famed for its Malbecs and stunning Andean backdrops.
- Colchagua Valley, Chile – Ride the wine train through scenic vineyards.
- Canelones, Uruguay – Known for Tannat wines.
- Ain Karim, Colombia – A surprising vineyard gem.
- Southern Brazil – Produces award-winning whites and sparkling wines.
Top Tip: Visit during the Southern Hemisphere's harvest season, typically March to April.
Discover the food of Peru in Amy's travel article - Amy's Inca Journey: Peruvian Culinary Secrets
Discover South America’s Rich History
Ancient Civilisations & Colonial Influences
South America’s history is as vibrant as its culture. From Incan citadels to colonial towns:
- Machu Picchu, Peru – The iconic ‘Lost City of the Incas’, reachable via the Inca Trail from Cusco.
- Tiwanaku, Bolivia – Explore Sun Gates and stone monoliths that date back over 3,000 years.
- Rapa Nui, Chile – Discover the mysterious Moai statues of Easter Island.
- San Pedro, Chile – Visit adobe villages and ancient Atacama ruins.
Colonial Architecture and Baroque Beauty
- Cartagena, Colombia – A UNESCO-listed city with Spanish colonial charm.
- Pelourinho, Brazil – Colourful colonial houses and grand baroque churches.
- Quito,
Ecuador – Home to La Compañia de Jesús, one of South America's most ornate churches.
Explore the Peru Jungle with Amy's travel blog - Amy's Inca Journey: Jungle Fever in Deepest Darkest Peru
Explore Incredible Wildlife and Natural Wonders
Amazon Rainforest and Andes Mountains
- Amazon Rainforest – The world's most biodiverse ecosystem, stretching across nine countries.
- Andes Mountains – The longest continental mountain range, home to llamas, alpacas, condors, and spectacled bears.
Other Natural Highlights
- Atacama Desert – The driest non-polar desert, ideal for stargazing and archaeological exploration.
- Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – A unique archipelago with blue-footed boobies, sea iguanas, and giant tortoises. Read our Silversea Galapagos Review
- Patagonia – A region of vast wilderness, glaciers, and wildlife. Don’t miss Perito Moreno Glacier or Torres del Paine.
- Iguazu Falls – 275 spectacular waterfalls straddling Argentina and Brazil.
- Angel Falls, Venezuela – The world’s tallest waterfall, located in Canaima National Park.
View Galapagos Cruises
South America for Adrenaline Junkies
Thrilling Adventures Await
- Jungle zip-lining
- White-water rafting
- Desert hiking
- Andes skiing
- Mountain trekking
South America’s extreme geography makes it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Colourful Carnivals and Cultural Festivals
Where Culture Meets Celebration
- Rio Carnival, Brazil – The world’s biggest street party.
- Inti Raymi, Peru – Celebrating the Incan sun god.
- Qoyllur Rit’i, Peru – A unique blend of indigenous and Catholic traditions.
- Diablos Danzantes, Venezuela – A vibrant fusion of faith and folklore.
Plan Your South American Adventure
With breathtaking diversity, rich history, world-class wine, and some of the most dramatic natural wonders on Earth, South America promises an unforgettable holiday.
Ready to discover South America? Contact one of our dedicated travel specialists today to start planning your tailor-made adventure!
To book your next South America holiday
call the travel experts at Select Travel Holidays on 01234 326 778, contact them, or send an email.
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