South America is one of the most traveled destinations in the world. You can find one of the most unique ecosystems in the Amazon Rainforest and find unique people and things to see along the way. One my travels through South America in the last year I have been able to visit every country excluding Ecuador and Peru which I plan on visiting at the end of this year. Not only was I able to travel through most of South America I was also able to visit Antarctica which was an amazing experience.
IGUAZU FALLS
Argentine Side of the Iguazu Falls
One of the unique natural wonders in the modern world the Iguazu Falls is blessed with natural beauty. It lies on the border between Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina and is readily accessed from both Brazil and Argentina. There are 275 falls in the national park shared by Argentina & Brazil is amazing. Most people just travel to the Argentina side of the falls since you need a visa for the Brazil side. I would highly recommend that you go to the Brazil side of the Iguazu Falls since you are able to see the falls via a helicopter ride.
THE GLACIERS OF LAGO ARGENTINO
An Iceburg in Lago Argentino
The glaciers of Lago Argentino are amazing. There is a river cruise that you can take to see all of the major glaciers in the area including the amazing Perito Moreno Glacier. For part of the trip you will like you are floating through Antarctic waters. Due to global warming one of the glaciers in the region is experiencing significant melting and there are ice burgs all over this section of the lake. There are also unique glaciers to see that are tied to the side of the mountain. There is nothing like seeing the Perito Moreno Glacier from ground level as it towers over your boat. If you are lucky enough you will see chunks of the glacier break off and land in the lake.
THE PEOPLE OF COLOMBIA
A small band in centro, Medellin
There isn’t one culture that I have met yet in South America that will leave such a lasting impression like the people of Colombia. Medellin, where I am currently living, truly feels like home. They are so welcoming throughout the country that its hard to believe that the drug war stigma is still around. The country has done a great job of cleaning itself up and the tourist industry is just now growing!
CARNIVAL IN BRAZIL
Poster for Carnaval in Salvador, Brazil
One of the most amazing festivals on the planet, Carnival in Brazil will not only take your breathe away but will also leave your heart in Brazil. Brazilian love to dance and have a great time and during Carnival, especially in Salvador de Bahia, everyone gets together to have a great time. There are also other larger carnivals in cities like Rio De Janeiro and Recife but Salvador is truly my favorite (I am biased as I have only been to carnival in Salvador).
ATACAMA DESERT
The many unique rock formations in Atacama Desert, Chile
There aren’t many places in the world like the Atacama Desert. The highest and driest desert on the planet has some of the most unique land and rock formations that I have ever seen. Taking tours in the area will give you amazing opportunities to take pictures and also give you access to the unique Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats. Make sure to take plenty of sun screen as it gets quite hot in the driest desert in the world.