Amazing Things To Do in South America | Top 10 Best Things To Do in South America -Travel Guide

South America is a continent that offers a vast array of experiences for travelers. From the stunning natural landscapes to the vibrant culture and history, this region has something for everyone. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a history buff, there are plenty of amazing things to do in South America. In this travel guide, we will explore the top 10 best things to do in South America, including the most beautiful places and attractions to see during your trip.
Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu is nestled high in the Andes Mountains, sitting at an elevation of 7,972 feet above sea level. The site was built during the 15th century, and it is believed that it was once a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti. The site remained unknown to the outside world until it was discovered by the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Since then, Machu Picchu has become one of the world's most visited tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors every year.
The site is divided into two areas: the urban sector and the agricultural sector. The urban sector contains the main plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the Royal Tomb. The agricultural sector contains terraces that were used for farming, as well as a system of water channels that were used for irrigation.
One of the most iconic features of Machu Picchu is the Intihuatana stone, which is a carved stone pillar that is believed to have been used for astronomical observations. The stone was used to mark the winter solstice, which was an important event in the Inca calendar. Visitors can see the Intihuatana stone up close and learn about its significance from a guide.
The site is open daily from 6 am to 5:30 pm, and admission costs around $60 USD per person.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

Iguazu Falls, also known as Iguassu Falls or Iguaçu Falls, is a true natural wonder that is located along the border between Argentina and Brazil. The falls are formed by the Iguazu River, which cascades over a series of 275 individual waterfalls, with some of them reaching a height of up to 82 meters (269 feet). The falls are one of the largest waterfalls in the world, and they are surrounded by lush rainforest, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Visitors to Iguazu Falls can explore the falls from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides, each offering a different perspective. The Argentine side is known for its extensive trail system, which allows visitors to get up close to the falls and experience their power and beauty. The trails lead through the rainforest and offer stunning views of the falls from different angles, including the famous Devil's Throat, which is the largest and most impressive of the falls.
On the Brazilian side, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the falls from a distance. The Brazilian side offers a wider view of the falls, allowing visitors to see their full extent and appreciate their grandeur. The Brazilian side also offers a boat ride, which takes visitors right up to the base of the falls, providing an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

The falls are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission costs around $25 USD per person. A curious fact is that the falls were formed by a volcanic eruption that occurred over 100 million years ago.
The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil

The Amazon Rainforest is a vast and biodiverse region that covers over 2.1 million square miles (5.5 million square kilometers) of South America, including Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. The rainforest is home to an incredible array of plant and animal species, with estimates suggesting that the Amazon is home to over 10% of the world's known species.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Amazon Rainforest is the opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Visitors can see a multitude of animals, including monkeys, sloths, jaguars, giant otters, and a wide range of bird species.
Tours can vary in length and type, ranging from short day trips to longer expeditions that can last several days or even weeks. The cost of a guided tour varies depending on the length and type of tour.
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

Christ the Redeemer, or Cristo Redentor in Portuguese, is a famous statue that stands atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The statue is a symbol of Christianity and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in South America. It stands at a height of 98 feet (30 meters) and its arms stretch out to a width of 92 feet (28 meters).
The statue was originally designed by French sculptor Paul Landowski and was constructed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa. It took nine years to build and was completed in 1931. The statue is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone and is an impressive feat of engineering.
Visitors to Rio de Janeiro can take a cable car to the top of Corcovado Mountain to see the statue up close and enjoy stunning views of the city. The cable car ride takes approximately 20 minutes and offers panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro and its surroundings.
The statue is open daily from 8 am to 7 pm, and admission costs around $20 USD per person. A fascinating fact about the statue is that it was built in the 1920s and took nine years to complete.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni is a breathtaking natural wonder that is located in southwestern Bolivia. Known as the largest salt flat in the world, it covers an area of over 4,000 square miles (10,000 square kilometers) and is a popular tourist destination for its otherworldly landscape and unique natural features.
The salt flat is so large and flat that it creates an optical illusion, making it appear as if the sky and ground have merged into one. This creates the perfect backdrop for photography, with many visitors taking creative photos that play with perspective and scale.
In addition to the salt flats, visitors can also explore the surrounding landscape, which includes colorful lagoons, geysers, hot springs, and volcanoes. The area is home to a diverse range of fauna and flora, including flamingos, llamas, and cacti.
The best time to visit Salar de Uyuni is during the dry season, which runs from May to November.
A curious fact is that the salt flats are so flat that they are used by NASA to calibrate satellites.
Rio Carnival, Brazil

Rio Carnival is one of the biggest and most famous carnivals in the world, held annually in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The festival is a celebration of music, dance, and culture, and attracts millions of people from around the world. Visitors can enjoy the colorful parades, live music, and street parties. The festival usually takes place in February or March, and the cost of admission varies depending on the event.
Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that is known for its rich culture, history, and architecture. Visitors to Buenos Aires can explore the city's many attractions, including its museums, historic buildings, and parks, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
One of the most popular attractions in Buenos Aires is the Recoleta Cemetery, which is a historic cemetery that is home to many of Argentina's most famous figures, including Eva Perón. The cemetery is known for its elaborate mausoleums and sculptures, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about its history and architecture.
In addition to the cemetery, Buenos Aires is home to many other historic buildings and museums, including the Teatro Colón, which is one of the world's most famous opera houses, and the Casa Rosada, which is the presidential palace and a symbol of Argentine politics.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are a group of islands located off the coast of Ecuador. The islands are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including giant tortoises, sea lions, and marine iguanas. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the islands and learn about the unique ecosystem. The best time to visit is between December and May.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park is located in southern Chile and is known for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can hike through the park to see the famous Torres del Paine peaks, or take a boat tour to see glaciers and wildlife.
Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a historic city located on the northern coast of Colombia. Visitors can explorethe colorful colonial architecture, visit museums and historic sites, or enjoy the local cuisine. The city is also home to several beautiful beaches and offers a lively nightlife scene.
Conclusion
South America is a diverse and exciting region that offers a wide range of experiences for travelers. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the natural wonder of Iguazu Falls, there are plenty of amazing things to do and see. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, South America has something for everyone. With this travel guide, you can plan your trip to explore the top 10 best things to do in South America and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful regions in the world.