Places to see in South America

By Catalogs Editorial Staff

Explore the best places to see in South America.

While many travelers choose to visit Europe or Asia on a world tour, other adventurous Americans have begun to realize the beauty and wonder that awaits visitors in South America. Perhaps you have heard the stories of the many geological, historical, and geographical sites that can take your breath away and that will keep you coming back for more. To make the most of your trip, do some research and nail down a few important places to see in South America.

Salar de Uyuni

Although few Americans have heard of the Salar de Uyuni, it is actually one of the most beautiful places in the world. Located in Bolivia, this salt flat is the world’s largest, measuring over 4,000 square miles. Within the Salar lie several islands that break up the smooth uniformity ? including the beautiful Fish Island. If you make a visit to the Salar de Uyuni, you can stay at a salt hotel, witness geysers and hot baths, and observe the salt miners who work almost ceaselessly as they chew on coca leaves for energy. Not only will you get to see the beauty of this region, but you will also get a chance to witness the unique culture of the Colchanis.

Lake Titcaca

After leaving your time at Salar de Uyuni, you will be relatively close to a breathtaking freshwater lake named Lake Titicaca. It is the largest freshwater lake in South America, and lies along the borders of Peru and Bolivia in the shadows of the Andes. In addition to being the highest commercially navigated lake in the world, Lake Titcaca is also known for its population of residents living on the floating reed islands known as the Uros. Interestingly enough, these islands were originally meant for protection, and they could even be moved if the need arose. This lake is truly one of the most interesting places to see in South America.
~
The Lost City of the Incas (Machu Piccu)

If you want to experience a mystical, spiritual site, then a trip to Machu Piccu has to be part of your agenda of places to see in South America. These ruins are filled with wonder and shrouded in the mystery that surrounds the Incan culture. Most archaeologists believe that this ancient city was the site of the preparation of priestesses and other Incan nobility. The sacred aura of Machu Piccu is only compounded by its location in the breathtakingly beautiful Peruvian Andes.

Galapagos Islands

As any first-year anthropology student can tell you, there is no place more perfect for observing unique and interesting animals than the Galapagos Islands off of the mainland of Ecuador. Charles Darwin based his observations on evolution largely on his time spent on the Galapagos Islands, as separated evolution has resulted in such creatures as the sea iguana and the giant tortoise. Why not witness this incredible testament to the power of nature for yourself?

There are many, many other places to see in South America; so many, in fact, that you will be planning your next trip to the continent even before you have finished your first one! But don’t get so focused on seeing all of the geographical and historical sites that you miss the beauty of the people who inhabit this lovely part of the world. Besides, who better to let you in on the secrets of this region than the people who live there?