South America has always been a popular destination for travelers. The multitude of beaches facing the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans are just one reason to visit. The Andes, which are the longest mountain range on earth, are another. The natural beauty of South America includes the largest rainforest, the Amazon. Where to begin on your trip? We have some suggestions for your South American vacation. Get ready for the paradise, the colorful surroundings and people, the music, the ancient cultures, and the vibrant cities.
Machu Picchu
South America is home to two of the newest wonders of the world: Machu Picchu in Peru and the statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Machu Picchu is often one of the first things people think of when Peru comes into conversation. Constructed in the 15th Century and later abandoned, Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel in the Andes Mountains. The buildings are intriguing not only for their layout which plays on astronomical alignments and sweeping panoramic views but also for the dry-stone walls that contain no mortar. This is on most hikers’ must see lists and its majesty alone is why it has become one of the wonders of the world.
Easter Island
Rapa Nui, the native name of Easter Island, is a remote Polynesian island off the coast of Chile famed for its archaeological sites. Images of the island will look familiar to you as it is famous for its almost 900 monumental statues or moai. These were created by the island’s inhabitants during the 13th-16th centuries. These carved human figures with oversized heads rest on stone pedestals. There’s more to Easter Island than the moai as it is also home to gorgeous beaches and great hiking. When visiting Easter Island, we’d recommend a stay at one of the island’s nicer hotels, Altiplanico Isla de Pascua in Hanga Roa.
Cataratas do Iguaçu
Cataratas do Iguaçu, or Iguaçu Falls, or Iguassu Falls are the waterfalls of the Iguazu River on the border of the Argentine province of Misiones and the Brazilian state of Paraná. This series of falls is the largest system in the world and they are a sight to behold. More than just some waterfalls, the area is a National Park worthy of taking your time to explore. With a multitude of photo opportunities and great places to dine with views of the falls, this is a destination equally as fabulous to the nature lover as well as the luxury traveler not as at home with nature. Plan ahead with a visit to the Cataratas do Iguaçu SA travel site.
Montevideo
Montevideo isn’t just a small town in Minnesota, it’s an interesting city in Uruguay to visit and explore. As the capital city, its beaches may not be the best in South America, but the Uruguayan style is impressive. Considered a bit of a melting pot because of the former hostilities in the area between the South American forces and the European colonists, Montevideo’s Old Town is filled with Beaux Arts beauty. It is a city full of museums and art galleries with an exciting nightlife of tango clubs, bars, and restaurants. We recommend a stay at the Alma Histórica Boutique Hotel – a 1920s townhouse turned bed and breakfast. With eclectic style and top-level service, the Alma will soon become one of your favorite places to stay.
So, tell us, will you be exploring South America? We feel that these four must-visit destinations will make your trip most memorable. One more stop to make is to see that giant statue that overlooks Rio de Janeiro, and while you’re there, we also have recommendations for stunning beaches to visit in Rio de Janeiro.
