South America – Travel Leaders

Any trip to this beautiful part of the world is bound to be an adventure. The 30,000 miles of scenic coastline, the towering mountains and dense rainforests, the awe-inspiring Amazon River, and the sheer number of remarkable species of plants and animals inhabiting the region are reasons enough to venture to this location that was civilized long before it was discovered by European explorers.

And what marvelous civilizations they were! The Maya, Inca and Aztec people all developed advanced civilizations with complicated social structures and religious practices. They built amazing cities and structures, many of which remain today as reminders of the greatness of their cultures. Tours of Peru’s Machu Picchu and Cusco, Guatemala’s Tikal and Belize’s Caracol are glimpses into the past that provoke many questions about these people and their way of life, many of which remain unanswered.

The adventure traveler will have a heyday here. Hiking, cycling, ziplining, diving, windsurfing, horseback riding are all activities that will challenge even the most adventurous tourist. The eco-tourist will be amazed by the complicated ecosystem on an Amazon River cruise. A visit to the Galapagos Islands, just off the coast of Ecuador, will astound nature lovers with its variety of animal and plant life – tortoises, sea lions, sharks, penguins, and birds of all kinds can be observed in this protected habitat.

But you don’t have to be a sports nut or a biologist to love a trip to Latin America. Iconic landmarks like the massive statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio, the powerful Iguazu Falls in Argentina, the enigmatic Moai statues on Chile’s Easter Island, and the Oliveira Bridge in Brazil are all worthy of a visit (and a photo!)

The countries of Latin America have a rich history for sure, but they also have modern cities with great shopping, dining, and nightlife. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is known as the “biggest party in the world.” If you happen to be in Chile on New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the celebration in Valparaiso. Mancora, Peru is a small beach town (growing fast as it’s popular with surfers), and surfers are always up for a party! Buenos Aires, Argentina is an interesting city with more of a laid-back European atmosphere. Craft ale bars are popular here. It’s also considered one of the most modern cities in the region and gets high marks for its art museums and public gardens and parks.

Other Latin American cities that deserve a mention:

Havana, Cuba, is a city where vintage cars and a charming, laid-back atmosphere will take you back in time.
Medellin, Colombia offers free walking tours of the city, and amazing cable car rides to Parque Arvi, a nature preserve and archeological park. You can take a day trip from here to El Penol, a huge monolithic rock offering one of the best views in all of South America.
Salvador, Brazil, has a unique African influence, from dancers and artwork to traditional food stands selling African delicacies.
Valparaiso, Chile, is the dominant port for international trade in the country. As a result local residents hail from all over the world, giving it a very cosmopolitan vibe. Oh, and it’s also known for the vibrant graffiti murals lining the streets.
La Paz, Bolivia, is the highest major city in the world. It is a bustling urban jungle, constantly under construction, and providing a sharp contrast to the peaceful countryside surrounding it.

No traveler to Central/South America will ever be bored!

Let’s start with scenic destinations that are just too amazing to miss. Photographers – pay attention!

Iguazu Falls, which is so massive it is encompassed by three different countries – Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It is the largest waterfall system in the world, and is quite simply breathtaking.
Take a tour of the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia. This gigantic salt flat in the Andes used to be a prehistoric lake. It is one of the most photographed landscapes in the world.
Visit Patagonia, the farthest point south in the continent. This region is shared by Argentina and Chile with very different landscapes in each. Argentina’s side is mostly mountainous and desert-like, while Chile’s side is home to glacial fjords and humid rainforests. It’s a great place for viewing marine life as well as many species of birds and land animals.
Sail high up in the Andes on Lake Titicaca, bordered by Peru and Bolivia. The remarkably calm waters reflect the bright sun and contrast with the bright yellow grasses and reeds that grow on its banks.

How about you adventure travelers? What should be on your “to-do” lists? We’ll start with some of the best places to hike.

Hike the Sendero el Perezoso trail in Costa Rica, part of the Manuel Antonio National Park. Here you can view sloths in (in)action and arrive at a beautiful beach as you leave the jungle.
Hike to the summit of Volcan Concepcion in Nicaragua. This challenging hike begins in the jungle and ends at the cloud shrouded summit overlooking lakes and coffee plantations.
Hike the Lost Waterfalls trail in Panama. This easy trek ends with an opportunity to swim in a deep forest pool beneath a shimmering waterfall.

Zipline through the rainforest for a thrill ride you won’t soon forget.

Jaguar Paw in Belize is perfect for everyone in your party – kids too. This adventure includes a guided tour through the jungle.
Arenal Park in Costa Rica begins with a gondola ride and culminates in rides on 7 long, high zip lines. This adventure is for experienced zip-liners.
Amasonia’s Zip Way Canopy adventure in Peru was designed for minimum impact on the amazing biodiversity you will witness on this ride.
Mindo Cloud Forest Zip Line in Ecuador has 13 lines that stretch 2 miles into the rainforest. The many exotic birds you’ll see are the highlight of this trip.
Other activities for the adventurous include water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, diving and snorkeling and sport fishing.

And for the less adventurous traveler?

- Learn to salsa dance in Cali, Colombia. Think of all the fun moves you can teach your friends when you get back home!
- Take Spanish lessons, available in almost every country you’ll be visiting. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you learn from these native speakers – and you’ll make some local friends in the bargain.
- Eat and drink the local specialties, and really broaden your gastronomical horizon. Try ceviche (marinated seafood) in Peru, arepas (flatbread sandwiches) in Venezuela, and empanadas (crispy turnovers) in Argentina. Don’t skip dessert – dulce de leche and chocolate brigadeiros are the perfect end to any meal. And it’s almost a law – you HAVE TO try the national drink of Chile and Peru – the Pisco Sour. Chorizo and fried plantains are staples in almost every country in the region.

FACTS

There are 12 countries in South America. Brazil is the largest by far as its borders touch all but 2 of the other countries in the region.
Nicaragua is the largest of the 7 countries in Central America.
Over 300 languages are spoken throughout the region. English, Spanish, and Portuguese are the most prevalent, but each country has its own indigenous population with its own language.
Technically, Central America belongs to the North American continent, and the term “South America” refers to the continent of South America. The two continents are joined by the skinny strip of land (the Isthmus of Panama) that we call Central America. At its narrowest point the isthmus is only 50 miles across.
Geological distinctions of the region are numerous:

1. The Amazon River is the longest in the world, although some in Africa might beg to differ! Because of recent advances in scientific measurement, the Nile has been reduced to second place in the “longest river” category.
2. The Andes Mountains are the second longest range in the world, covering a length of over 5500 miles and towering to a height of approximately 20,000 feet.
3. La Paz in Bolivia is the highest capital city in the world.
4. Angel Falls in Venezuela is the highest waterfall in the world at a breathtaking 3,210 feet.

FUN FACTS

Special occasions in Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru call for the local delicacy — roasted guinea pig, which is served in an alarmingly realistic manner. Picky eaters, be warned!
Speaking of rodents, the world’s largest is native to South America. Capybaras live in wetland rainforests, and are often observed with birds, monkeys and other small animals who sit on them to feast on the insects and other parasites that live in their fur. The capybaras don’t appear to mind.
Ecuador is serious about conservation and the protection of its natural resources, so much so that it has granted Mother Earth a constitutional right to “retain and regenerate its evolutionary processes.”
The capital of Uruguay, Montevideo, has banned the use of salt, ketchup, and mayonnaise on the tabletops in any of its restaurants in an attempt to protect the population from an overload of sodium.
It’s almost possible to drive from Alaska to the southern tip of Argentina using the Pan American Highway. There’s a small stretch (about 100 miles) between Panama and Colombia that has no road and is too dangerous to navigate.
No doorbells in Paraguay. Clap your hands loudly outside the door to gain entrance.
Argentinians eat gnocchi on the 29th of each month to celebrate their Italian heritage and to invite good luck.

Check with our travel professionals before traveling to Latin America. Some countries require vaccinations for various diseases that are common there. Of course you’ll want to check for Covid restrictions that change from country to country.
Use common sense when traveling without a guide. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry that may attract unwanted attention. Crime in most countries of the region has been reduced significantly, but you need to be aware of your surroundings.
Don’t assume that everyone speaks English. Learn a few phrases in Spanish and Portuguese to make life simpler when you need a bathroom, a hotel, or directions to the next town. The locals will appreciate your effort – most will be helpful.
Take altitude sickness seriously! Any hiking or even walking above 7,500 feet can result in nausea, severe headaches, and extreme fatigue. If you’re planning to travel at high altitudes, take a couple of days to gradually allow your body to adjust. The locals deal with it by chewing coca leaves or boiling them for tea. Drinking a lot of water will help too.
Stick to bottled water or bring water purification tablets to avoid plastic waste.
Don’t expect buses and trains to run according to schedule. You’ll get where you’re going eventually, so enjoy the opportunity to relax and rest your feet!
When traveling away from major population centers, bring your own toilet paper, and remember to deposit used paper in the designated bin, not the bowl.
Ask permission before photographing local people. Most will be delighted to honor your request – for a small fee!
Have your main meal at lunchtime. This is an inexpensive way to try some Latin American delicacies at a much reduced price. Choose the “menu del dia” (same idea as the “Blue Plate Special) which includes soup, a protein, rice or beans, dessert and a drink.