Home to the largest river in the world, the Amazon, the tallest waterfall, the Angel Falls in Venezuela, the highest capital, La Paz in Bolivia, and some of the most remote islands such as the Galapagos Islands and Easter Island, the superlative region of South America never ceases to amaze. Add to these the mystique of the gorgeous Inca ruins and Nazca Geoglyphs in Peru, the wildlife of the Amazon and the Pantanal, the breathtaking Iguazu Falls in Brazil, the stunning landscape of Torres del Paine in Chile, the idyllic beaches of Rio de Janeiro and Colombia, and the architectural wonders of Brasilia and Buenos Aires, and you’ve got yourself one of the best travel destinations on the planet.
Apart from these wondrous attractions, another factor which makes South America exceptional is its people with their age-old customs and traditions. The jungles of the Amazon are home to some of the most backward indigenous tribes in the world who have remained uncontacted despite the changing political scenario through the years. Tribes which have embraced the new world order still hold firm to age-old customs and rituals, showcased in their many festivals like the Inti Raymi in Cusco and Festival de la Candelaria in Bolivia. One of the biggest outdoor parties in the world is also celebrated in South America, the Rio Carnival which draws millions of visitors to this side of the planet each year.
Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is a tiny volcanic island halfway between Oceania and South America, at the southeasternmost point of the Polynesian triangle. Easter Island is mostly famous for the Moai, massive human figures carved from stone by the Rapa Nui people between 1250 and 1500 AD. The 887 giant Moai statues…
The city of Valparaiso in Chile is one of the South Pacific’s most important seaports. In the second half of the 19th century, it was a major port of call for ships that crossed the Straits of Magellan, traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific. The opening of the Panama Canal brought an end to its…
Affectionately called a “mini-Berlin by the seaside,” coastal Valparaiso overlooking the waters of the South Pacific Ocean is one of the most vibrant of Chile’s cities. What’s more, Valparaiso and its neighboring Viña del Mar are amongst the gayest places on the continent! Santiago might be home to a larger gay scene, but it’s Valpo,…
Santiago is the sprawling capital city of Chile, often praised for its idyllic location, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It has a population of over 6 million people and is divided into ‘comunas’ which are similar to large suburbs, each with their own city council. Here, ancient traditions coexist with 21st-century life on every street and…
Cosmopolitan, lively, and sophisticated are the words we’d use to describe Santiago, Chile’s capital. It’s a wonderful place for strolling, and each neighborhood has its own unique flavor. Head out for the day to take in the museums, art galleries, and pedestrian malls before an afternoon picnic in one of the lush parks. Then, enjoy…
When it comes to visiting Chile, most of you will probably think of Santiago or Patagonia. However, there are so many reasons why you should visit Valparaiso as well. It’s safe to say that this is one of the most underrated cities in South America. Not many people talk about this city. While in fact,…
Chile covers almost the whole length of South America, from north to south. This results in such diversity in cuisine, weather, natural beauty, and even culture. Whichever part of Chile you’re visiting, chances are you’ll be spending some time in Santiago even just for quick transit. Why stay only for a few hours if you…