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Top 5 Adventures in South America

Are you a thrill-seeker? South America has got you covered. Be it engaging with different cultures or exploring remote destinations, the continent has something for everyone.

Are you a thrill-seeker? South America has got you covered. Be it engaging with different cultures or exploring remote destinations, the continent has something for everyone.

Travelling in South America will bring you closer to nature, test your boundaries and open your mind to new horizons.

Are you up for the challenge?

 

1. Fish Piranhas at the Amazon, Peru

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Piranhas have a bad rap for feasting on all types of flesh (including humans).

Well, it’s time to turn the scales.

Iquitos leads to the northern Amazon basin, a place with some of the best jungle lodges in Peru.

Kayak your way through the Amazon and fish for menacing piranhas.

This is a great opportunity for wildlife spotting as well, since the area is home to toucans, macaws, pink dolphins and caimans.

 

2. Trekk in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

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Explore hundreds of kilometres of trails through ever-changing landscapes of rugged peaks, turquoise lakes and stunning glaciers.

Marvel at the views of the southernmost tip of the continent while spending the night at five star hotels, luxury lodges or glamping.

 

3. Hike to Ciudad Perdida, Colombia

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Ciudad Perdida is located in the middle of Sierra Nevada Mountains, near the city of Santa Marta.

The pre-Colombian settlement was discovered in the 1970’s, when intricate staircases and a complex system of terraces and pathways marvelled explorers.

The only way to reach this city is to hike there, making it a very remote and special place.

The trek lasts 6 days and covers 44 kilometres.

You might want to hit the gym a few times before going in this trip though, for the way out will take you in an ascent of 1200 steps through the dense Colombian jungle (talk about fitness motivation!).

 

4. Snorkel or scuba dive with sea turtles in the Galapagos, Ecuador

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If wildlife is your thing, then you need to go to Galapagos.

The islands that inspired Darwin’s evolution theory are rich in marine fauna.

You can expect to swim amongst white-tipped reef sharks, rays, colourful fish and sea turtles as part of your adventure in a rich coral reef ecosystem.

 

5. Raft in the white waters of Mendoza, Argentina

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Leafy Malbec vineyards cover the shadow of the Andes Mountains in Mendoza, but this region nestles more than just wine.

The Mendoza and Atuel Rivers descend from the glaciers of Argentina’s Mountains through steep canyons and towering peaks before becoming class II, III and V rapids.

Embark into the ride of your life before cuddling up to a glass of wine at the end of the day.

This is just a taste of what South America has to offer. Tell us, what other adventure-travel activities do you enjoy?

Contours Travel is the longest running Latin American operator in Australia. It has 40 years of experience designing tailor-made, small group itineraries and special interest tours throughout the region. See more at: http://www.contourstravel.com.au

 Have you been to South America? What’s your favourite part?