South America is home to some of the most breathtaking natural sights on Earth, from majestic waterfalls to romantic islands – South America is an incredible continent that brings Mother Nature close and allows her magic to work its wonder.
As South America offers so much to see and do, you should spend as much time exploring its diverse natural sites. We’ve put together a list of 15 of the most breathtaking natural wonders to visit that will leave you speechless!
The Pantanal
The Pantanal is one of the world’s largest tropical wetland ecosystems, covering an area larger than 29 US states and 9 European nations. This eco-system provides essential services such as water purification and groundwater discharge/recharge; climate stabilization/stabilization; water supply/flood control among others.
wetlands provide home for numerous endangered and threatened species, such as maned wolves, hyacinth macaws and capybaras (the world’s largest rodent).
Not only do wetlands provide essential habitat, they also support around 1.5 million people across Brazil, Bolivia and Paraguay – providing fisheries products, fruit crops and other forms of livelihood to these communities.
Pantanal ecosystem is under attack from various factors, from new development to expanding agriculture and pollution, which contribute to rapid changes in its environment and endanger its sustainability and rich biodiversity. Therefore, The Conservancy is working together with local communities and partners to safeguard this unique nature exploration area for future generations.
The Amazon
The Amazon rainforest is one of the largest and most diverse tropical regions on Earth, covering nine South American countries and harboring one third of all known plant and animal species.
As one of the ‘lungs of the planet,’ forests produce 6-9 percent of global oxygen production and act as an essential carbon sink, absorbing massive quantities of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide and thus slowing global warming by preventing its release into the atmosphere.
There’s plenty to see and experience in the Amazon, including boat rides along its riverbanks or trekking through dense forest trails.
This area provides a sanctuary for wildlife, such as jaguars and capybaras. Keep an eye out for other animals like crocodiles, giant snakes, hyacinth macaws, and poison dart frogs in this habitat.
Chile
Chile, an attractive ribbon-shaped nation running along South America’s western coast, boasts stunning landscapes and cultures that span from Atacama’s lunar-like desert to Patagonia’s blue glaciers – offering plenty of variety to please nature enthusiasts.
Santiago, the capital, is nestled against the Andes and boasts several historic landmarks that make for great visits – palm-lined Plaza de Armas, Neoclassical Cathedral and National History Museum are just some of them.
Atacama is the world’s driest non-polar desert and makes an irresistibly captivating exploration destination. Explore it on e-bikes or buggies while watching sunrise over bubbling geysers or stargaze at night – Atacama offers something amazing!
This nature exploration area is also an ideal location for white water rafting. Boasting some of the world’s premier rivers to raft on, its deep green waters offer thrill-seekers an adrenaline rush experience like none other.
Patagonia
Patagonia is an extreme land, encompassing temperate rainforests, towering mountain ranges, grasslands and fjords – home to numerous wildlife species such as condors, penguins, guanacos, pumas and whales. Birdwatchers, wildlife photographers and animal enthusiasts come here in search of condors, penguins, guanacos, pumas and whales – and birdwatching, wildlife photography or animal enthusiasts come here in search of these rare animals!
Patagonia can best be explored from an adventurous angle, like hiking, kayaking or sailing. Yet its vast, majestic landscape can also provide opportunities for more leisurely travels that include stunning lodges and viewpoints to discover as well as wildlife encounters no matter where or what activities you choose to participate in.
For an unforgettable journey, it’s essential to carefully consider your preferences, budget, and travel style when constructing the itinerary. By doing this, you can craft an incredibly diverse itinerary which truly meets all of your wishes and needs.