South America!

Every thing before South America was just a warm up!

You haven't really travelled until you've taken on South America. Thirteen countries strong, the continent is home to astounding natural and cultural wonders, including the snowcapped peaks of the Andes, thousands of kilometres of magnificent white-sand beaches, captivating colonial towns and indigenous villages, and the Amazon rainforest home to more plant and animal species than anywhere else on the world. 

But what can I do?

Sweat yourself dizzy on an Amazon canoe ride before ending the day caiman-watching on a black water lagoon. Brave a white-knuckle bus ride down Peruvian slopes and be astounded by endless Andean vistas. Endure Patagonia's wind driven rain while chasing life-affirming sunsets or simple lose yourself (and possibly your belongings) in the break-neck chaos of Buenos Aires or Salvador. 

Tantalise your senses with a multi-country South America tour! Taste mouth-watering steak in Argentina, or juicy seafood in Peru. Smell the fresness of Patagonia and unpolluted air of the Amazon. See the spectacular colours of Cusco and Machu Picchu, the ancient world of the Incas in Peru and stunning geological formations in Bolivia. Feel the warm waters of the Varibbean Sea in Venezuela and cool breezes of the Atlantic in Brazil. Hear the sultry sounds of the tango in Argentina and the ever present rhythmic beats of the Samba in Rio!

The challenge is deciding where to begin!

With so much choice, its as thought the continent was built for travel; a place that excites, thrills, challenges and infuriates! South America however is not just about breathtaking sights - its stunning soundtrack is sure to leave your feet tapping long after you're back in the day job. Samba spices up the sandy streets of Brazilian beach towns, Argentine "folorica" trickles out of truck radios in the pampas and the jolting rhythm of Cumbia making those Andean bus rides even more absurd!

& when it comes to experiencing this incredible land the real reward is undoubtably the South American spirit! The entire continent approaches life with the enthusiasm of an old-fashioned road trip: windows down and stereo blaring. South America is a continent that engulfs you and changes you - your state of mind, your outlook on life. As soon as you step foot on South American soil, the transformation begins!

Ready to go? 

To visit many other popular trips and tours, take a look at South American Tours!

Here is one of their tours they have to offer from Australia! 

• Day 1: AUSTRALIA - SANTIAGO Transfer to hotel.
• Day 2: SANTIAGO (B) Half day city tour of Santiago, dramatically set at the foot of the Andes mountains to discover the city's many layers of cultural influence, visit "La Moneda" government house and try some pisco sour.
• Day 3: SANTIAGO - LIMA (B) Transfer out to airport for flight to Lima, transfer in and half day city tour.
• Day 4: LIMA - CUZCO (B) Transfer to airport for your flight to Cuzco. Transfer to hotel.
• Day 5: CUZCO - SACRED VALLEY (B, L) Full day tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Overnight.
• Day 6: SACRED VALLEY - MACHU PICCHU (B, L) Train to Machu Picchu, ruins tour and overnight.
• Day 7: MACHU PICCHU - CUZCO (B) Morning free to visit ruins. Return train and land transfer to Cuzco.
• Day 8: CUZCO (B) Half day city tour of some of the sites in and around Cuzco including the cathedral, Q'oricancha (the temple of the sun) and the fortress of Sacsahuaman.
• Day 9: CUZCO - PUNO (B, L) Spectacular Andean Explorer train journey across the Altiplano Puno to the shores of Lake Titicaca.
• Day 10: PUNO (B) Half day tour of Uros, to visit the communities that live on these reed islands.
• Day 11: PUNO - LA PAZ (B, L) Cross from Peru into Bolivia, via the lovely lakeside village of Copacabana, boarding a comfortable catamaran to begin the scenic crossing of the magical Lake Titicaca. Stop at the complex on Sun Island for an introduction to the mysterious Tiwanaku civilisation on the way to La Paz.
• Day 12: LA PAZ - LIMA(B) Half day city tour including the rock formations of Moon valley and learn about the local "Pacenos" customs and traditions including a trip local witchery market. transfer to airport for fligt to Lima. Overnight
• Day 13: LIMA - RIO DE JANEIRO (B) Transfer to airport for flight to Rio de Janeiro, one of the scenic and lively cities in the world. Transfer to hotel.
• Day 14: RIO DE JANEIRO (B) Tour and cable car trip to one of the city's favourite landmarks Sugar Loaf mountain, the famous granite and quartz peaks overlooking Guanabara bay for a fantastic view.
• Day 15: RIO DE JANEIRO (B) Half day trip to the top of Corcovado mountain, catching a small train through the Tijuca forest before reaching the top to see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.
• Day 16: RIO DE JANEIRO - IGUAZU FALLS (B) Transfer to airport for flight to Iguazu. Transfer and tour to the Brazilian side of the falls for a panoramic view of the 275 falls spanning nearly 3 kilometres and running along the border of Brazil and Argentina.
• Day 17: IGUAZU FALLS (B) Guided walk along the many trails on the Argentine side of the falls, including a small train journey to the impressive Devil's Throat, the impressive point during which most water passes.
• Day 18: IGUAZU FALLS - BUENOS AIRES (B) Transfer to airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. Transfer to hotel.
• Day 19: BUENOS AIRES (B) Half day tour of South America's stylish capital, Buenos Aires, whose architecture and boulevards are steeply influenced by a European heritage. Visit the bohemian street market of La Boca, the tango barrio of San Telmo and the famous Recoleta cemetery, home to the resting place of Eva Peron.
• Day 20: BUENOS AIRES (B, D) Free day to discover this exciting city or go shopping. In the evening, experience the tango in all its glory and sample the succulent local beef with a dinner and show.
• Day 21: BUENOS AIRES - AUSTRALIA (B) Transfer to the airport for flight home.
• Day 22: ARRIVE AUSTRALIA

Travel: 

How can I get there?

By Plane: Getting to South America has gotten much easier in recent years due to massive increases in flights to the continent by major global airlines. Although some particular places are still quite hard to reach (i.e. Paraguay, Suriname, northern Brazil), the places that you most likely want to go, such as Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, are more accessible than ever before. 

From Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific: A somewhat surprising number of options exist. Both Aerolineas Argentinas and LAN Airlines serve Auckland and Sydney from their respective hubs at Buenos Aires and Santiago, while Quanta's introduced a non-stop service between Sydney and Santiago on March 2012. LAN also operates one of the world's most obscure flights of all- a service linking Santiago-Easter Island-Tahiti. From Perth Emirates provides affordable flights to Buenos Aires with a stopover in Dubai, around 30 hours total flying time. 

South American Culture:

The cultures of South America draw on diverse cultural traditions. These include the native cultures of the peoples that inhabited the continents prior to the arrival of the Europeans; European cultures, brought mainly by the Spanish, the Portuguese and the French; African cultures, whose presence derives from a long history of New World slavery; and the United States, particularly via mass culture such as cinema and TV. South Americans are culturally influenced by its indigenous peoples, the historic connections with Iberian Peninsula and Africa, and the impact of mass culture from the United States, alongside waves of immigrants from around the globe. 

South American nation have a rich variety of music. Some of the most famous genres include vallenato and Cumbia from Colomvia, samba and bossa nova from Brazil, and Tango from Argentina and Uruguay. 

In many places indigenous people still practice a traditional lifestyle based on subsistence agriculture or as hunter-gatherers. There are still some uncontacted tribes residing in the Amazon Rainforest!

In many places indigenous people still practice a traditional cultural lifestyle based on subsistence agriculture or as hunter gatheres. Believe it or not, there are still some uncontacted tribes residing in the Amazon Rainforest! How cool is that? Talk about culture!

Another thing you need to keep your eye out for in South America is the Language! Portugese and Spanish are the primary languages of the continent. The majority of South American's speak Portugese, however most South American countiries are Spanish speaking, and nearly all of the continents lusophones reside in Brazil. 

Latin American MUSICO!

Latin American music, sometimes simply called Latin music, includes the music of all countries in Latin America and comes in many varieties, from the simple, rural conjunto music of northern Mexico to the sophisticated habanera of Cuba, from the symphonies of Heitor Villa-Lobos to the simple and moving Andean flute. Music has played an important part in Latin America's turbulent recent history, for example the nueva canción movement. Latin music is very diverse, with the only truly unifying thread being the use of Latin languages, predominately the Spanish language, the Portuguese language in Brazil, and to a lesser extent, Latin-derived creole languages such as that found in Haiti.

Latin American Arto!

Beyond the rich tradition of indigenous art, the development of Latin American visual art owed much to the influence of Spanish, Portuguese and French Baroque painting, which in turn often followed the trends of the Italian Masters. Mexican painter Frida Kahlo is perhaps the best known Latin American artist. She painted about her own life and the Mexican culture in a style combining Realism, Symbolism and Surrealism. Kahlo's work commands the highest selling price of all Latin American paintings.

Latin American Cuisne:

This refers to the typical foods, beverages and cooking styles common to many of the countries and cultures in South America! Some items typical of Latin American cuisine include maize-based dishes of tortillas, tamales, pupusas and various salsas and other condiments including guacamole, pico de gallo, and mole! 

Beverages includes mate, horchata, atole and aguas frescas. Desserts include dulce de leche, arroz con leche and flan.The richest products of South America come from the middle of the continent, the Amazonia. In countries like Peru there is a strong influence of the Inca. Potatoes are frequently grown as a result of this, and also plants such as quinoa. On the Southern tip of South America lies the Pacific Ocean, which provides a large array of seafood. Many plains also are on this continent, which are rich for growing food in abundance. In the Patagonia south of Chile and Argentina, many people produce lamb and venison. King crab is typically caught at the southern end of the continent. Tuna and tropical fish are caught all around the continent, but Easter Island is one place where they are found in abundance. It's safe to say a wide range of foods are grown, caught and deliciously served up for all in South America!

So much to see, so little time! Best Tourist Attractions for South America?

South America is a patchwork of stunning landscapes with its snow capped mountains, treacherous jungles, surreal desserts and spectacular mountain ranges. It delights travelers, sweating their way through outdoor challenges or simply sitting back to admire its awe inspiting Andean views. What the adventure, South America does not disappoint. It's spirit is infectious and no matter where you go the fierce Latin Passion will sweep you away! 

Here are ten tourist attractions that must be on your must-see list:

1. Machu Piccu - Peru!

Peru has become the hot spot in South America and the darling of the traveling community. But it  would be nowhere without its shining jewel, the Incan kingdom of Machu Piccu! Hidden within the best lush peruvian mountains, this mystical city remained a secret for ages and now is the continent's best known archaeological site. While some travellers chose a plush train ride to enjoy the view in comfort, others choose to trek the original Inca Trail and after several days are delighted by the ruins that dot the terraces. But for all, a tremendous sense of wonder for an ancient society can be felt!

2. Amazonia - Ecuador!

One of the most unique ecosystems on our planet, the Amazon is an enormous region covering about 40% of the South American continent and it touches many countries. One of the more popular entryways is within Ecuadorian borders through its capital city, Quito. The Amazon is not for the lighthearted. It is one of the world's most diverse biological areas in the world with simple trips providing opportunities to see diverse creatures such as monkeys, birds, caimans and tarantulas. That's right. Massive spiders, and massive snakes! Are you up for the challenge of the Amazon?

3. Angel Falls - Venezuela!

Nestled within Venezuela’s Canaima National Park, Angel Falls are the highest waterfalls in the world. Although impressive, the hike into Angel Falls are not the only reward. This jungle trek is its own adventure as a guide navigates the grasslands, rivers and mountains to reveal spectacular waterfalls and lagoons. Travellers who brave the trip deep into the jungle are treated to tropical wildlife in the area including monkeys, poison arrow frogs and orchids. 

4. Torres del Paine - Chile!

Torres del Paine National Park is located in the Southern most region of Chile and for those willing to venture to Patagonia it offers astonishing hiking opportunities amongst glaciers, lakes and blue mountains. Treks are available for varying experience levels on clearly marked paths with options for accommodation and basic services. Those wanting just a taste of its breathtaking views can choose a day trip, while many others hike for the popular five day "W" route. For the most adventurous, the full circuit can be completed in 9 days! 

5. Salar de Uyuni - Bolivia!

The world's largest salt flat in the world, salt and other abundant minerals are sought in this area. But travelers know this area as the "worlds best photo op".  Photographers flock here to capture the unique landscape. Although dry season is recommended for its limitless horizon perspective; the rainy season also provides Dali-inspired reflective photos that make amateur photographers look like pros.The salt flats are often part of a 3-4 day tourin Bolivia that promises to defy expectations and include such unusual stops as the Salt Hotel. This location feels out of this world.

6. San Pedro de Atacama - Chile! 

San Pedro de Atacama once was a destination when transporting cattle and today has flourished into a major tourist destination.The star of the area is the Valle De Luna (Moon Valley) tour at sunset. Travelers marvel as the desert morphs and provides an idyllic setting for star gazing. But the area has much more to offer with its beautifully hot, dry landscapes that crack the earth and mountainous sand dunes. Guests are taken by the town's quaint charm and often stay longer than expected for its many tour offerings of craters, canyons, caves, valleys and salt mines.

7. The Galapagos Islands - Ecuador! 

The ultimate animal lover's paradise! The Galapagos are perhaps the last unspoiled place on earth where man continues to respect the boundaries of mother nature and wild creatures prosper without the fear of man. No where else can you find animals frolicking, unafraid of their onlookers. Like a child's fairytale, here you can play amongst sea lions, laugh with the penguins and swim alongside turtles. This is nirvana and it won't last forever. Walking amongst this wildlife creates a memory you most certainly wont forget. A must do for every South American trip!

8. Lake Titicaca - Bolivia! 

South America's largest lake and the home to several indigenous communities make the area both agriculturally strong and full of cultural significance. Copacabana is the heart and largest town on the shore. Due to it's rich history, Copacabana's religious festivities, often celebrating Pachamama (Mother Earth), are frequent and well known. No worries- the music and colour will get you celebrating mother earth as much as the locals! But wait, there's more, the experience doesn't end at the shore. Many boats leave for Isla del Sol, the sacred Inca island. Here travellers bask in the beauty of deep blue sky towering its fresh water. It's a cozy feeling as it's all tucked in the snow topped mountains of the Cordillera Reel!

9. Easter Island - Chile! 

Easter Island, also known as Isla de Pascua or Rapa Nui by the Spanish and Polyesian, is one of the most alluring sacred sites on Earth. Famous for its enigmatic giant stone figures, the Moai were built centuries ago, but continue to remain a mystery and our only link to the demise of this isolated Polynesian culture. Easter Island also hosts two white sand beaches making it the idyllic location to take in a bit of ancient culture while basking in the tropical sun. After a morning admiring the Moai, visitors can enjoy body surfing, surfing, scuba diving and snorkelling. 

10. The Pantanal - Brazil! 

Perhaps the wildest region in the world, the Pantanal has the greatest density of animal life in South America. Created by seasonal flooding of the river Paraguai, these wetlands are considered one of the worlds largest and most diverse freshwater wetland ecosystems. Not to mention the home of the purest water source in the world. Thats right, this place is a gold ticket of pure natural goodness. While many flock to the Pantanal on a photographic safair to see the majestic jaguar, a number of colourful birds including hummingbirds, macaws and parrots that inhabit this area. Its a beautiful collage of animals and wetlands that make this place so special to this earth. 

Stay Safe!

Ladies and Gentlemen, leave your crystal necklaces, earrings, watches and wads of cash at home. Wearing or carrying items which may identify you as an affluent tourist can be a mistake. You shouldn't pack anything that you would be upset to lose. Only carry what you need. That goes for credit cards and other documents as well; if you have no need for them leave them behind in the hotel safe, only take what money you are likely to spend with you. 

& i'm not only talking about human dangers of robbery, the monkey's are known to take a jewel when they see one, so beware!

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, HAVE FUN IN SOUTH AMERICA! I'll be extremely jealous. 

~ ♡ Marika ♡ ~