South America is a fascinating and beautiful continent that is full of incredible sights. I decided to try and pick a top 10 of things to see and do, and in the end I struggled choosing just 10 to put on the list. There really are loads you can choose from. However here is my list – it’s certainly not comprehensive but I’ll leave it to you to make more suggestions in the comments.

Christ the Redeemer

This amazing status sits atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, and is one of the absolute icons of not just the city but Brazil as a whole. It stands as a shining monolith that dominates the city’s skyline.

Copacabana Beach

Sticking with Rio, Copacabana Beach is possibly the most famous beach in the whole world. It’s extremely lively, with a number of activities available including water sports, amble loungers for sunbathing and more.

Sugarloaf Mountain

The views offered from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro are incredible. It’s easy enough to reach the summit too, with just two cable cars needed to let you experience stunning beauty across the harbour and city.

Tango

The Tango is the dance of Argentina, so where better to take in a lively performance than the capital city of Buenos Aires? There are a number of places where you can witness an authentic demonstration, and lessons are also available.

Evita Museum

The Museo Evita in Buenos Aires tells the story of Eva Peron, the iconic First Lady of Argentina who was immensely popular with the working-class public following her fame as an actress. The museum details her life, including artistic renderings of her and her life, along with some of her belongings.

Penguins of Otway Sound

Travel to Otway Sound in the south of Chile and you can see the native Magellanic Penguins up close in their natural habitat. Contrasting greatly with the rainforests and beaches of the northern part of the continent, this area perfectly exemplifies the diverse attractions of South America.

Machu Picchu

Situated in Peru, Machu Picchu is a majestic Inca structure that has been voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It’s sometimes referred to as the Lost City, and it shows off the architecture of the Incan era.

Nazca Lines

Remaining in Peru, the Nazca Lines are a series of geoglyphs – huge designs dug into the land, sometimes as motifs or sometimes representing various wildlife species. It’s fascinating seeing how these have been created, and from nearby hills you can see the glyphs in their full wonder.

Amazon Rainforest and River

The Amazon Rainforest and River are home to around 10% of all known species in the entire world, meaning they are teeming with beautiful, intriguing wildlife, flora and fauna. Primarily located in Brazil, you can explore the rainforest and river to learn more about this animal and plantlife.

Iguazu Falls

The breath-taking waterfalls of Iguazu are visible both from Brazil and Argentina. Another member of the New Seven Wonders, these are truly awe-inspiring and worthy of any holiday.

By Ian Lewis
Google