South America; this continent is exquisite in ways more than one. Home to largest waterfall the Angel Falls, the largest river the Amazon River and the longest mountain range of the world the Andes. If this is not reason enough to visit South America then let your imagination loose as you make way to some destinations that will sweep you of your feet. The photographic stills come to life when you visit the Copacabana beach, time stands still as you visit the Historic National Mint in Potosi and all the wild life lovers have to make a trip to the Tijuco in Rio De Janerio. A visit to these places in South America is like a cultural extravaganza with a scenic backdrop.
Places to visit
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio is possibly the most beautiful city in South America. From the towering Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado mountain to its famous white beaches at Copacabana and Ipanema, Rio is a must for any visitor to South America. Braver souls can enjoy the wild hustle and bustle of the pre-Lent Rio Carnival or take a cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain to enjoy a stunning 360-degree vista of the city.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tourists looking for a dash of European flair, should look no further than Buenos Aires. Aficionados of dance should attend a milonga, a uniquely authentic Argentinian tango party that takes place nightly at various venues. Sightseers who enjoy quieter sights can explore the city’s many museums such as the National Historical Museum and the Che Guevara Museum, childhood home of the famous revolutionary. The thespian tradition of Buenos Aires is celebrated at the city’s many theatres like the Cervantes Theatre. The Teatro Colón is considered by aficionados to be one of the top opera venues in the world and has featured performances by opera singers like Enrico Caruso and Luciano Pavarotti.
Quito, Ecuador
Lovers of history will enjoy Quito’s charming colonial historic center. Including Carondelet Palace and Independence Square, the historic center is also home to the San Francisco Monastery. Completed in 1604, it is the earliest surviving building in the city.
Santiago, Chile
Santiago boasts many picturesque locations such as the scenic Cerro San Cristóbal. Wine connoisseurs will enjoy touring the verdant vineyards located on the outer reaches of the city. The Museum of Memory and Human Rights documents the country’s darker moments by commemorating the victims of General Pinochet’s regime.
Cusco, Peru
Cusco’s large Incan complex of Saksaywaman is a must for any sightseer. The site’s beautifully fashioned stone walls and huge plazas provide an unforgettable viewing experience. Hatun Rumiyuq street is the location of several important sites such as the Archbhisop’s Palace, built over the former palace of Incan ruler Inca Roca. The blending of two cultures can also be seen at Qurikancha and Santo Domingo where the sacred Incan sun temple of Qurikancha is topped by the Spanish church of Santo Domingo.
Manaus, Brazil
Located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Manaus provided almost unlimited opportunities to tour the lush jungle and explore the tangled banks of the world’s second longest river. Exhausted ecotourists relax at the city’s Ponta Negra beach, enjoying the area’s bustling nightlife.
Puno, Peru
Puno is the best place to see the famous floating islands of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Several indigenous festivals like Candlemas and Puno Week are held annually in the city.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena’s main attraction is the fort, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. Built in 1536 to keep pirates at bay, its distinctive stone walls guard the entrance to the city’s port area. Nearby the colonial-era Walled City is home to many churches and museums.
La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz is home to a variety of museums; many like the Ethnography and Folkolore Museum focus on local indigenous cultures. Sightseers made of sterner stuff can tour the infamous San Pedro prison, a semi-autonomous facility where prisoners govern themselves.