South America Travel Information

A vast continent covered by steamy rainforests, arid deserts, savannahs and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Mountains, South America celebrates a rich diversity of experience. Mainly colonised by the Spanish, the cultural diversity of South America reflects both its colonial heritage and its indigenous populations.

South America's largest constituent country, Brazil, hosts the immense Amazon rainforest, a favourite for ecotourism and a hotspot for ecological conservation work. The world's largest river, the Amazon, flows through Brazil and neighbouring South American countries Peru and Colombia, and the region is still home to a number of indigenous tribes - some of which never come into contact with the outside world - as well as rare species of plants and animals.

The Andes Mountains run along South America's western coast, including most of Chile, and make up the longest mountain chain in the world. The history and culture of the ancient Inca Empire can also be found all along the Pacific coast, through Colombia to Ecuador, Argentina and beyond, and formed the basis of their modern cultures.

Useful information for holidays in South America

• A majority of countries in South America use Spanish as an official language. Having some knowledge of this language could be of tremendous benefit when you're exploring South America, especially when asking for directions and getting information from local residents.
• While South America is home to a number of large cities, many of its most popular attractions, such as the Amazon Rainforest and the Andes Mountains, lie many miles away from civilisation. Getting a guided tour can point you to the best experiences on South American holidays.
• The climate varies widely across South America, from humid tropical rainforests to sub-polar in Tierra del Fuego.

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