12 Exciting Reasons Why You Should Visit South America
South America is gradually emerging as the next big thing in world tourism, with its outstanding natural endowments and rich history. You will hear more people talk about places like Machu Picchu, Atacama, Mendoza, and Rio de Janeiro now more than ever before.
The unparalleled exotic charm of the South American landscapes attract a large number of tourists every year. However, it marvels not only in its natural beauty, but also in its gorgeous historical cities, where the old and the new exist in undisrupted harmony.
12 Reasons to Visit South America
You may have visited many places around the world already. If South America hasn’t found a place on your list yet, here are some of the most compelling reasons why it’s time you should reconsider that list.
#1. Its Unforgettable Wines
This aspect of South America is for the wine lovers who take pleasure in tasting wines produced in different parts of the world. South America offers a robust climate for viticulture, which is why you can find a great variety of wines here. Argentina and Chile are the most notable wine producing countries of South America.
The wines of Argentina and Chile have also received international recognition, and are exported to different parts of the world. Mendoza is the most popular wine producing region in Argentina, and produces world famous Malbecs.
Chile, which lies on the other side of the Andes, has several wine producing regions. Maipo Valley, Aconcagua Valley, and Casablanca Valley are some of Chile’s most celebrated wine producing regions. Carménère, which was originally a French grape variety, is grown widely in Chile, and is also its signature wine.
#2. Amazing Archaeology
You will find some of the world’s finest archaeological sites in South America. The region has a long history behind it, which captivates visitors in large numbers.
In Peru, Machu Picchu, the remains of the Inca civilization, is one such example. The treasure of the Easter Island Statues in Chile are also a part of the archaeological wonders of South America.
#3. The Colonial Cities
The colonial era had a prominent influence on South America’s architecture, as you will find in cities like Santiago in Chile, Antigua in Guatemala, and Quito in Ecuador. In the more modern cities, like Salvador in Brazil or Santiago, the new and the old exit in perfect harmony.
There are also amazing monuments and structures to see in South America. One of the most famous is the Christ Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Santuario de Las Lajas, in Colombia is a Northern European style neo-gothic church that was built over a river gorge on a mountain slope with a narrow stream flowing underneath.
#4. The Atacama Desert
There is no shortage of natural beauty in South America. It is a treasure trove of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders, and Atacama in Chile, is one of the most remarkable. Known as the driest desert in the world, Atacama is where beauty and danger go hand in hand. The vast stretch of the desert is as beautiful as it is menacing.
#5. Lake Titicaca on the Andes
From the driest region of the world, we move on to the world’s highest and South America’s largest lake, Lake Titicaca. There is a belief that the lake, which is nestled in the Andes between Peru and Bolivia, was the birthplace of the Sun. Titicaca has stood there for centuries, and has been a part of the civilizations that preceded the Inca, like Tiwanaku, Pukara, and Collas.
#6. The Climate
The climate is not uniform throughout the vast continent due to a number of factors like wind, ocean currents, and geographical locations. However, most of the region has tropical temperatures.
The climate is generally good for tourists throughout the year. But the rainy seasons, especially in Peru, should be avoided, since nature is not at its best during this time. The summer in South America happens from November to February, while the winter is from June to August.
#7. It Has Something For Every Traveler
South America is a friendly country, and its tourist sector has been growing rapidly recently. Every country has its own charm, and there is no shortage of tourist attractions in South America. Hence, whether you are visiting alone or with family, expect an amazing Latin American experience during your stay.
#8. South America Is Economical For Tourists
You may have a hard time deciding which places you want to visit in South America. But when it comes to money, you have nothing much to worry about.
Although the flight fares to any of the countries in South America can be expensive, once you get there, it’s a highly affordable place. However, when it comes to accommodations, it is advisable to do your research beforehand to get the best rates. Cusco, Santiago, and the Argentine Patagonia are among the most affordable places in South America.
#9. Its Beautiful Beaches
Beaches are almost synonymous with vacations, and South America has plenty of them, whether it’s Ecuador’s Montañita, or Brazil’s Jericoacoara. The atmosphere of these South American beaches varies from one country to another. But you will find lots of options depending on your preferred beach activity. You will find hip and happening party beaches, and quiet and less crowded beaches where you can just laze around and relax with your family.
#10. The South American Food
South America has a distinct culinary style, and it is increasingly coming to the forefront with the boom in its tourism industry. The South American cuisine mainly refers to the delicacies from Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Bolivia. The speciality of these cuisines is that they are prepared using a myriad of spices and condiments like chili, guacamole, mole, pico de gallo, pebre, and chimichurri.
#11. The Undiscovered Parts Of South America
There are more than 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites in South America. While Machu Picchu is one of the most popular archaeological sites, places like Brazil’s Iguacu National Park, or Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park will also leave a lasting impression on any tourist.
#12. The Diversity of Culture
South America is a vast continent, and the culture there is also diverse. You will find both indigenous, and Latin influences on their way of life, including their food, architecture, and music.
There’s no doubt about it, South America is stepping up its tourism industry. Now, even more tourists can enjoy its natural masterpieces, and the wondrous works of ancient art and architecture. There are plenty of luxury hotels and lodges that offer safe and comfortable accommodations for tourists. The transportation is also good, and you will find plenty of world caliber restaurants in the cities of South America.
