REGIONAL
ADVISORY
South
America, the fourth largest continent, is divided among twelve countries,
each with a distinct cultural heritage. Originally home to the Inca
Empire, it was settled by Portugal and Spain in the 16th century.
Brazil is the largest nation by far, and contains within its borders
the Amazon rainforest, home to nearly a third of all plant and animal
species on Earth. Despite encroaching urbanization and clear-cut farming,
many areas of this natural wonder remain unexplored.
Those who prefer urban adventures will fall in love with the vigor and
enthusiasm of Rio de Janeiro, with its European-inspired architecture
and friendly people. Many precious stones, such as amethysts and emeralds
originate in South America, and deals can be found in the city’s
plentiful gem shops. During Carnival, Rio de Janeiro is wild with dancing
and frivolity, but all year long the streets thrum with the vitality
of a culture that savors life. Not to be missed is the iconic statue
of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Mountain. It is an impressive edifice
nearly a hundred feet tall, and almost as wide.
Argentina welcomes travelers with its cosmopolitan capital, Buenos Aires.
Birthplace of the tango. Enthusiasts of the dance still visit famous
tango singer Carlos Gardel’s memorial in Buenos Aries and honor
him by placing lit cigarettes between the statue’s fingers. Outside
the city limits gauchos raise some of the finest beef in the world,
and many a traveler has fueled a night of dancing by first savoring
the delights of an authentic Argentinean steakhouse.
Chile
runs along the south-western coast of South America and encompasses
an amazing variety of climates and topography, including geysers, mountains,
beaches, forests and volcanoes. The capital, Santiago, preserves fascinating
artifacts in its pre-Columbian museum.
Peru, once the hub of the Incan Empire, contains the treasured ruins
of Machu Picchu, a terraced ceremonial city hidden among the clouds
of the upper Andes. The Andes highlands are still home to descendents
of that once-dominant culture, tribes who live according to the old
traditions and speak their ancestral tongue, Quechua.
Among Bolivia’s wonders is Lake Titicaca. At 12,500 feet above
sea level, it is the highest-elevation lake navigable to large vessels.
It covers 3,200 square miles and provides breathtaking views of the
surrounding mountain ranges. In Incan legend, the children of the Sun,
Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, emerged from the lake to found their empires.
South America is a magical blend of ancient civilization and bustling
metropolises. The experienced guides of First Cabin Travel will smooth
your way at border crossings, help with translations and tips about
local customs, and help you discover a unique and unforgettable South
American adventure.