Interesting Facts About South America You Must Know

Interesting Facts About South America: South America is located in the Western Hemisphere, mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, with a small part in the Northern Hemisphere. It covers an area of about 17.84 million square kilometers, making it the fourth-largest continent by area.

South America is a continent with rainforests teeming with animals, ancient lost cities hidden in mountains, and vast deserts. The Amazon rainforest is home to 10% of the world’s animals, like jaguars and monkeys, swinging through giant trees. Also, South America grows most of the world’s coffee beans.

In this article, we have provided some of the most interesting facts about South America you may not know.

Interesting Facts about South America You May Not Know

1. Highest Navigable Lake: Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, stands as the highest navigable lake globally. Esteemed by the Incas as the birthplace of the sun, it remains a spiritual and cultural hub, attracting those seeking tranquility and natural beauty​.

2. Largest Carnival Celebrations: Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro hosts the world’s largest carnival, drawing around a million tourists annually. This vibrant event showcases Brazil’s rich cultural traditions and contributes significantly to the local economy through various festivities​.

3. World’s Largest Rodent: Capybaras

Native to South America, capybaras are the largest rodents on the planet. These semi-aquatic creatures are known for their gentle nature and are often found in the region’s wetlands​.

4. Darwin’s Evolution Inspiration: Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands, off Ecuador’s coast, played a crucial role in Charles Darwin’s development of the Theory of Evolution. The unique biodiversity of these islands provided key insights into natural selection​.

5. World’s Largest Salt Flats: Salar de Uyuni

Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni, covering over 10,500 square kilometers, is the largest salt flat in the world. It transforms into a vast mirror during the wet season, creating a mesmerizing natural phenomenon​.

6. Coffee Production Powerhouses: Brazil and Colombia

Brazil and Colombia are renowned for their high-quality arabica coffee beans, thanks to the ideal climate and terrain. Coffee culture is deeply ingrained in both countries, influencing global coffee trends​.

7. Amazon Rainforest: Biodiversity Haven

The Amazon Rainforest, often referred to as the Earth’s lungs, is the most biodiverse ecosystem on the planet. It’s home to an unparalleled variety of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else​.

8. World’s Longest Mountain Range: The Andes

The Andes Mountains, extending over seven South American countries, are the world’s longest continental mountain range. They are a testament to the continent’s dramatic geological history and natural diversity​.

9. Unique Cultural Heritage: Indigenous Tribes

South America is home to numerous indigenous tribes, some of which have had little to no contact with modern civilization. These tribes offer a glimpse into the continent’s rich cultural tapestry and historical depth​.

10. Architectural Marvel: Brasília’s Airplane Design

Brasília, the capital of Brazil, was designed to resemble an airplane from above. This planned city symbolizes progress and innovation, reflecting the mid-20th-century fascination with air travel!

South America Map

Some Other Interesting Facts about South America

Some other important facts about South America are provided below:

• The Amazon is the world’s largest tropical rainforest, covering nine countries.
• The Andes are the longest continental mountain range in the world.
• Venezuela’s Angel Falls is the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall.
• Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.
• Chile’s Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth.
• The Amazon River is the second-longest river in the world.
• Lake Titicaca, between Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake globally.
• The Rio Carnival in Brazil is the world’s largest carnival celebration.
• Peru’s Machu Picchu is an iconic Incan city and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Patagonia, spanning Argentina and Chile, is known for its stunning landscapes and glaciers.
• Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni is the largest salt flat in the world.
• South America is home to capybaras, the world’s largest rodents.
• Argentina’s Mount Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Americas.
• The Pantanal, mostly in Brazil, is the world’s largest tropical wetland area.
• The Amazon River is home to unique pink river dolphins.
• The dance of Tango originated in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
• Brazil and Colombia are top coffee-producing countries globally.
• The Inca Empire was one of the most advanced civilizations in ancient South America.
• Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival attracts millions of visitors each year.
• The mythical city of El Dorado has fascinated explorers for centuries.
• The Falkland Islands are a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic.
• French Guiana is home to the European Space Agency’s primary launch site.
• Ecuador’s capital, Quito, is the highest official capital city in the world.
• The Iguazu Falls, on the border of Argentina and Brazil, are among the largest waterfall systems in the world.
• The Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

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South American Countries – Highlights

The below table provides the highlights, the must see locations and fun facts about the country:

Country	Highlights	Must-See	Fun Fact
Argentiaa	Tango, glaciers, gauchos, steak	Iguazu Falls, Patagonia National Park, Buenos Aires	World’s highest navigable lake (Lake Titicaca) is shared with Bolivia
Bolivia	Salt flats, ancient ruins, colorful culture	Salar de Uyuni, Tiwanaku ruins, La Paz (highest capital city in the world)	World’s longest cable car system is in La Paz
Brazil	Rainforests, beaches, vibrant cities	Amazon rainforest, Christ the Redeemer statue, Rio de Janeiro Carnival	Home to 70% of the world’s coffee production
Chile	Atacama Desert, mountains, Patagonia	Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine National Park, Easter Island	World’s driest non-polar place is in the Atacama Desert
Colombia	Coffee, biodiversity, vibrant culture	Coffee triangle, Lost City of the Incas (Ciudad Perdida), Cartagena	Shakira and Maluma are both from Colombia
Ecuador	Galapagos Islands, Andes mountains, diverse landscapes	Galapagos Islands, Quito (second highest capital city in the world), Cotopaxi volcano	The equator line runs through Ecuador
Guyana	Rainforests, waterfalls, indigenous cultures	Kaieteur Falls, Iwokrama Rainforest, Georgetown	Only English-speaking country in South America
Paraguay	Waterfalls, Jesuit missions, unique culture	Iguazu Falls (shared with Argentina and Brazil), Jesuit Missions of the Guarani, Asunción	National drink is tereré, a cold brewed yerba mate tea
Peru	Machu Picchu, ancient ruins, diverse landscapes	Machu Picchu, Nazca Lines, Cusco	Home to the world’s highest waterfall (Salto Ángel)
Suriname	Rainforests, indigenous cultures, colonial architecture	Brownsberg Nature Park, Maroon villages, Paramaribo	Only Dutch-speaking country in South America
Uruguay	Beaches, gaucho culture, relaxed atmosphere	Punta del Este beach resort, Colonia del Sacramento historic town, Montevideo	National drink is mate, a hot brewed herbal tea
Venezuela	Angel Falls, Caribbean coast, unique landscapes	Angel Falls (Salto Ángel), Canaima National Park, Isla Margarita beaches	World’s largest salt flat (Salar de Uyuni) is actually in Bolivia

Conclusion – Interesting Facts About South America

In conclusion, South America is a continent of remarkable diversity, both in its natural landscapes and cultural heritage. From the towering Andes to the expansive Amazon rainforest, and from the vibrant carnivals of Rio de Janeiro to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, South America offers a wealth of experiences for travelers and enthusiasts alike. Its unique geography, rich history, and vibrant cultures make it a truly fascinating destination to explore. Whether you’re drawn to its breathtaking natural wonders or its colorful traditions, South America never fails to leave a lasting impression on those who visit.

FAQs on Interesting Facts About South America

Is South America Safe for Travel?

Traveling in South America is considered safe, especially when on guided tours. Like any travel destination, it’s important to stay informed and take precautions. Utilizing travel agencies can provide additional safety through local knowledge and support. Being mindful of your surroundings and following local advice can significantly enhance your safety while exploring South America​

What’s the Best Way to Deal with Altitude in South America?

Dealing with altitude is a common concern for travelers to South America, especially in high-altitude destinations like Quito or Cusco. To mitigate altitude sickness, it’s recommended to acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, rest adequately, and consider medication if necessary. Starting your trip at lower altitudes and gradually moving higher can help your body adjust more comfortably​

What Size Backpack Should I Take to South America?

The ideal backpack size varies depending on the length of your trip and the activities planned. For most travelers, a backpack ranging from 60-70L for the main pack and 30-40L for a day pack is recommended. This allows enough space for both warm and cold weather gear, as well as any special equipment for activities like hiking​

What’s the Best Time to Visit South America?

The best time to visit South America varies by country due to its vast size and diverse climates. For example, Brazil is best visited during its summer months from December to March, while the dry season from May to October is ideal for Bolivia. Researching your specific destinations within South America will help you choose the optimal time for your visit​

Are Flights Included in Tour Packages?

Most tour prices quoted for South America are ‘land only,’ excluding flights. However, many travel agencies, including Ideal South America, can book flights for you, offering competitive rates for both international and domestic flights. When booking through an agency, you can also provide your air miles information to earn miles on your flights.