The minute you step off a flight to South America you’ll realize that it’s unlike any other continent in the world. Each country within it possesses its own traditions and cultures; from the melancholic Argentinean tango to the ancient Inca ruins of Bolivia.
Brazil and Argentina are the two largest and most diverse countries in South America. And most travellers booking flights to South America choose to combine a trip to both countries. Brazil’s influences come from Portugal, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia and its people all live harmoniously in this wild and exciting land. Argentina, on the other hand, is the most European of all the South America countries. But what both countries do have in common is the Iguazú Falls, the spectacular 275 cascading waterfalls which are taller than Niagara Falls and possibly one of the most unforgettable sights in the world.
Bolivia, nestled between the Andes and the Amazon rainforests, lies North of Argentina. This isolated country has retained the ancient traditions of its ancestors, making it a fascinating and mysterious place to visit. Its neighbour, Peru, is just as captivating with a history that dates back to the Inca Empire. Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela might not be as renowned for their ancient wonders as the other countries but what they do have is spectacular nature: lush landscapes, tropical rainforests, and pristine beaches.
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South America’s climate can be split into tropical, dry, cold and temperate. Because of the vastness of the continent rain and wind contribute to the climate variations, making it unpredictable and erratic in some areas.
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The countries in the Southern Hemisphere – Brazil and Argentina, can be visited all year round but most people prefer to book flights to South America during peak season when the weather is hot and humid in mid December to early March. In winter flights and accommodation are lower, especially between the months of June and October. The north can be visited at any time of the year while central and southern Chile should be avoided from June to September when snowfall can get heavy.
Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia and Peru have two distinct seasons: wet and dry, and depending on the altitude and proximity to the equator, each country’s peak season will differ slightly.
Thanks to its topography and altitude, Bolivia has the most unpredictable weather in South America making the months between May and October the best times to visit. Peru is also has complicated weather due to its high elevation and close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The best time to visit is summer, from January to March when days are hot and humid.
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Internal South America flights are the most convenient, but not always the cheapest way to get from one country to the next. Internal Brazil flights are notoriously expensive so it’s a good idea to get a Brazil Pass which allows you to take a few internal flights and is cheaper than purchasing tickets separately. Or a Mercosur Air Pass allows for two stops in each country if you’re planning on travelling between Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Brazil.
Buses provide a cheaper alternative to flying and a great way to see the country. However it’s not always advisable to take overnight buses especially in Ecuador and Peru where armed robberies on night buses are not uncommon.
Getting around by car can be dangerous and inconvenient but taxis in most major cities are available and can be hired for long journeys.
Cycling isn’t encouraged in the majority of South American countries – particularly in Colombia and Guyana – where the quality of the roads can be poor.
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- For an unforgettable trip, head to the mountainous region of Patagonia in Southern Argentina. Hike in the Andean national parks or visit Carmen de Patagones, a charming colonial city.
- See Brazil’s magnificent wildlife in the Pantanal, the largest flood plain in the world. Visit the home of the endangered Hyancinth Macaw and watch jaguars, giant armadillos, capybara and the Brazilian Tapir pass you by.
- Visit Lake Titicaca, the birthplace of the Inca civilization and the highest navigable lake in the world. The lake sits on the border of Peru and Bolivia and on the Bolivian side of the lake is the Isla Del Sol where you’ll find Pilko Kaina and the Chincana complex, both Inca ruins. On the Peruvian side are the Las Islas Flotantes or floating islands, handmade from totora reeds and home to the Uros tribe.
- The small colonial village of San Pedro de Atacama is one of the most popular destinations in Chile. Stop by the archaeological museum that houses well-preserved artefacts or explore the boiling geysers, sand dunes and canyons.
- Wander through the cobbled streets of Cartagena on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Explore its colonial mansions, monasteries, 17th century forts and cathedrals.
- Head to the remote Isla Bartolomé in Ecuador’s legendary Galápagos Islands. Here you can snorkel with the penguins; swim around the rocks with the sea lions or just watch the mockingbirds from atop Pinnacle Rock.
- The Iwokrama Forest in Central Guyana is well worth a visit. The 916,760 acre virgin rain forest is home to some of the world’s largest freshwater fish, otters, freshwater turtle, the Anaconda, caimans, and South America’s largest cat (the jaguar) and bat.
- Take a trip to the Jesuit reducción (settlements), Trinidad & Jesús, in Southern Paraguay which have well-preserved Baroque ruins including monuments and churches built in the 18th century.
- Visiting Angel Falls while in Venezuela is a must. The world’s tallest waterfall is situated within the Canaima National Park. Stop by the Makunaima Arte Indígena in Canaima and pick up some local indigenous crafts.
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