Inspired by BBC’s slideshow that features the world’s best beaches for wildlife we decided to highlight South America’s candidates as, it may not be surprising, but 3 out of the 5 featured wildlife beaches are actually located in the continent we’re located in! Very often when we speak about beaches with travelers it’s about the white, soft sandy beaches and clear, turquoise waters, those seem to be the typical factors for a spectacular beach. But did you ever think about visiting a beach destination for the interesting diversity of wildlife that can be found there? We’ll introduce you to 3 of South America’s best beaches for wildlife, from north to south:
Reaching Machu Picchu on the Salkantay Trek
One of the most popular destinations in the world and one of the New7 Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu should not be missed off any South American travel itinerary. The popularity of the Inca Trail has led to travellers searching for the next route to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The proximity of the mighty Salkantay (or Salcantay) Mountain to Machu Picchu makes the Salkantay Trek an attractive alternative to the Inca Trail.
South America’s Natural Wonders: Chile’s National Parks
More than 19 percent of Chile is protected by the government, ranking it among the most protected countries on earth. That listing includes 30 national parks, 38 national reserves and 11 natural monuments. Because of geographical location of the country a wide variety of landscapes can be found in Chile, from the Atacama Desert (world’s driest desert) to the largest sweet water reserve on the planet. Each of these protected areas is worth a visit, you’ll be able to see rare animals and beautiful landscapes. Here are 5 of the most impressive national parks to visit during a tour in Chile.
Guide to Chile’s Cuisine from Paila Marina to Lucuma
Filled with the culinary heritage of immigrants from both Europe and around the Pacific Rim, Chile has a wonderful eclectic cuisine with something for everybody’s tastes. The native Mapuche introduced traditional ingredients as corn, potatoes and beans. Spanish took care of the ‘European’ veggies, think of onions, peas, meat and a broad range of herbs and spices. The blend of those influences made Chile’s cuisine to what it is today. Though there is of course a natural emphasis on top quality seafood due to its geographical location, beef and lamb are popular dishes as well. Here are some typical dishes to definitely try out during a tour to Chile.
Top 5 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Patagonia
You may have heard travelers describing Patagonia as ‘the end of the world’, this Southern region of Argentina and Chile is full of surprises. Coastal treasures, magical lakes, ancient forests and impressive glaciers, these do all belong to Patagonia’s delights. The area includes more than 40% of both Argentina and Chile, but as only 3 million inhabitants, making it an undisturbed nature and wilderness paradise.
The name Patagonia is derived from the word Patagon or giant that Magellan used in his description from 1520 of the area that was then though to be inhabited by natives of enormous size. You now may ask yourself, what are the most beautiful places to visit in this enormous area, what is it you should not miss out on when visiting Patagonia? We’ve listed the ultimate activities and places that will show you Patagonia’s true beauty.
Rio de Janeiro’s Culinary Hidden Gems
Rio is with no doubt one of the world’s most impressive cities, many speak about the amazing views, the golden beaches and the intriguing cultural life. But what about the culinary scene, inspired by TripAdvisor’s hidden gems list, we’ve selected 3 culinary hidden gems in Rio de Janeiro. You should not miss out on these restaurants & bars during your trip to the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro.
Alex visits the Magellanic Penguins of Punta Tombo
The tiny peninsula of Punta Tombo is home to Patagonia’s most important Magellan penguin colony. Every year during spring time (September/October in Argentina) more than half a million of them come to the reserve to breed. The Punta Tombo area has been protected since 1979, and is home to some of the most diverse flora and fauna in Patagonia and Argentina. Alex visited the Magellanic Penguins of Punta Tombo in spring time, got the chance to get up close and personal with the Magellanic penguins and their molting babes.
Machu Picchu Visit in Photos
Our very own Montse spent 2 days at Machu Picchu, the Inca Capital. We did already highlight her Huayna Picchu hike in an earlier post and will today be sharing the overall experience of a visit to Machu Picchu with Class Adventure Travel. The diversity of this archeological site is so impressive that it will yield memories that last a lifetime.
Central America’s Natural Wonders: Poás Volcano National Park
Poás Volcano National Park is the most visited national park in the country, also because of its close proximity to and easy access from the capital San José. You can almost walk up to the edge of the main crater which is almost a 1,000 feet deep and has frequent small lava eruptions, making for a spectacular sight. Here is everything you need to know about the Poás Volcano, a must-do during a tour to Costa Rica.
