South America’s combination of breathtaking landscapes, richly diverse cultures and phenomenal food are sure to satisfy every visitor. From hardcore endurance treks to ancient jungle cities to cosmopolitan cities on the cutting edge, there are countless reasons why you have to visit South America at least once in your lifetime
One of the most iconic South American travel experiences is a trek along the Inca Trail to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu, perched high on a mountain ridge in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Another unmissable experience in South America is the four-day trek to the Lost City, found in the coastal jungles of northern Colombia. And if you prefer something even more off the path, there are many more remote ruined cities to visit throughout Latin America.
Latin America is also where you’ll find both the tallest waterfall and the largest waterfall system on earth. Angel Falls in Venezuela falls from a jungle plateau nearly 1,000 meters (over 3,000 feet), while Iguazu Falls makes over 275 separate drops.
If roughing it isn’t your cup of café, head to one of the many bustling metropolises, each offering its own unique flavor. You’ll find the ultimate party at Rio Carnival in Brazil, but you’ll also find some of the greatest festivals in the world I Columbia. And the the nightlife in cities such as Buenos Aires, La Paz, and Medellín is among the best in the world.