If you are seeking a world away from the crowded cities or bustling beaches, you will appreciate the natural beauty that South America has to offer. The region is home to some of the most fascinating wildlife in the world, as well as some truly breathtaking areas of wilderness. Here are some of the best destinations you should visit in South America:

Words: Colton Davis

1. The Amazon Rainforest: is a nature lover’s dream. It accounts for more than half
of the world’s remaining forests, and the wildlife in the area is unlike any other.
Around a tenth of the world’s known species can be found here. Besides the
wildlife, this forest will expose you to many cultures that have been hidden from the
modern world.

2. Patagonia: Have you ever wondered where the most beautiful place in the world is? Patagonia is surely a contender for this title. This wilderness is packed, full of stunning vistas, sapphire-blue lakes, and active volcanoes. A monstrous glacier can be found in the southern fields of Patagonia, covering a length of 6 kilometres. You can also enjoy the sight of penguins in their natural habitat, particularly if you visit in the summer.

3. The Atacama Desert: When people talk about the Atacama Desert in Chile, they will not fail to mention that it is among the driest places on the planet. At the same time, they will note that it is one of the most thrilling places they have ever been to – visiting this desert is akin to being on a different planet. You can drive through the desert without seeing or hearing another soul, and admire some of its 80 lively geysers and fumaroles along the way.

4. Elqui Valley: Many visitors make a trip to La Serena’s golden sandy beaches every year, but those who venture further to Elqui Valley will experience the true hidden gem of the area. If you are a stargazer, this place will especially appeal to you. It’s home to some of the most powerful telescopes in the world, and is also the best place to observe the phenomenal total eclipse of the Sun that will take place on the 2nd of July 2019.

5. The Galapagos Islands: The Galapagos Islands are known for their inspirational influence on Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. You can trace his footsteps here and personally marvel at some of the most unique species in existence. The best part is that these species have evolved to become completely harmless – you can literally pet a sea lion on the beach and still return home unharmed!
All avid travellers must visit South America at least once in their lifetimes. If you’re a nature freak, the Amazon Rainforest, Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, Elqui Valley, and the Galapagos Islands should be right at the top of your list.
I love natural places and therefore all these places would be my favorite when I visit South America. It is difficult to decide which one to visit first but the Amazon Rainforest would be my first choice as I have heard and read about it so much. The Galapagos Islands is another interesting place as it was an inspiration to Charle’s Darwin theory.
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One of the reasons I love South America so much is because of all the natural beauty and fun things you can do outside. I can’t wait to go to Patagonia! I was supposed to go last but due to an injury I had to cancel my trip and leave Argentina early 😦
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I would like to walk over that Suspension bridge as I like the swing feeling. The Galapagos Islands would be my choice as well. Amazon rain forest is sure another big spot. I would like to take the cruise which goes through the river.
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I love your list and enjoyed reading the places that I have already visited – the Galapagos, Patagonia and the Amazon. I have heard so much about the Atacama Desert but just never made it in our trips. This is the first time I have read about the Elqui Valley – sounds interesting – it would have been interesting to see the eclipse.
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The Amazon Rainforest and Galapagos Islands have been on my wishlist for the longest time! But there are also other places in your list that look pretty awesome such as the Atacama Desert and Elqui Valley, I will add them to my list. I have not been to South America as yet but I know that when I go, it is going to have to be for at least a month because there’s so much I want to see there!
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I have.not been there too. But the rainforest is high on my list as too
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I used to live in Patagonia and didn’t realize not everyone had penguins in their backyard. The Atacama desert is high on my list of future destinations – I was to sand board! And one of these days I’ll enjoy seeing the Galapagos myself. Perhaps a cruise is in order.
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All these are high on my list too
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I have not visited South America yet and have it high on my list of places to visit and this post only wants me to plan it faster. There is a lot of natural beauty starting from the rain forests to the cascading waterfalls. There is a lot of history attached to like The Galapagos Islands and the Charles Darwin connection. I am not sure about travelling with kids though as it can be challenging and will wait for my kids to get a little older. Your visuals add so much depth to the post so thanks for sharing some great information
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