South American Travel

Visitors to South America quickly find themselves immersed in natural splendor. Being the fourth largest continent on the planet, South America occupies the entire southwestern hemisphere and contains about 12% of the world's land area. On this huge area are some of the world's largest rain forests, natural wonders, and outdoor activities. Definitely bring good shoes and a hat, as much of the continent is tropical and you're sure to do a lot of hiking to see all that you can see here.

Angel Falls, reputed to be the highest waterfall in the world, is located in southeastern Venezuela. The water drops from the mesa of Auyantepui, at 3212 feet, in the Guiana Highlands. The falls are named after their European discoverer, James C. Angel, and are magical to behold.

The Iguacu Falls, also called the Iguazu Falls, are between Argentina and Brazil and is 200 feet high. The water merging together as it falls is fascinating and can take a person all day to comprehend.

Lake Titaca in Peru and Bolivia is another travel site that can't be missed. Being the largest lake in South America, at 56 kilometers wide and 174 foot depth, it is also the world's highest altitude, navigable lake. It's a major transportation point between the two countries. Other South American lakes to see are Lake Poopo in Bolivia and Argentino and Nahuel Huapi in Argentina.

The Orinoco River Delta in Venezuela is another body of water that is a great destination to see. It's the region's longest river, at 2560 kilometers.

The Andes Mountain Ranges require sturdy shoes and good hiking skills, as they are one of the longest mountain ranges in the world and much of them cannot be seen unless you hike to it. Inside Argentina is another great hiker's destination, Aconcagua peak. This is the highest mountain in the western hemisphere, rising to a sheer height of 22,834 feet.

In addition to natural wonders, South America holds some of the world's most unique culture and peoples. In Bolivia and Peru, the people raise and utilize Llamas as pack animals and food sources, including the famous llama wool that the area produces.

The nocturnal tapir, found in the forests and grassy places of South America, have short legs and a flexible snout. Sort of a rabbit with an elephant's nose, these animals are sure to delight.