TOP FIVE
Places to see wildlife in South America
Andes Mountains The Andes Mountains are the world’s longest continental mountain range – spanning seven countries. The ecosystem is unique, boasting a rich species diversity, and varied terrain, perfect for wildlife spotting. Look out for the graceful guanacos, which can be seen all year round. With their pale tawny colour and long eyelashes, guanacos are inquisitive and social animals that tend to live in small herds and roam the Andes region. Spot the intelligent llamas, and the slightly smaller alpacas , grazing at high altitudes. Both domesticated species, they are bred for their fibre which is used to make knitted and woven products like shawls. ____ Magdalena Island A protected area in Patagonia, Magdalena Island is home to an estimated 60,000 breeding pairs of Magellanic penguins, Chile’s largest penguin colony. The island itself is only accessible by a boat from Punta Arenas, and remains untouched by humans, meaning you can enjoy the ambience from the unconventional beauty and wilderness, whilst spotting these fascinating creatures. Alongside penguins, you may also see kelp gulls, skuas, and cormorants and potentially might even spot Chilean dolphins. Visit in February for the best chance to see the baby chicks roaming along the shore. ____ The Amazon Rainforest The largest rainforest on Earth, The Amazon Rainforest stretches across Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador. Home to as many as 40,000 species of plants, over four hundred mammals and 2.5million different insects, the natural diversity of The Amazon is astounding. If you’re looking to spot a range of exciting wildlife, this is undoubtably the place to be. Look out for graceful spider monkeys are they swing and climb through the leafy foliage, spot colourful toucans with their impresive curved beak and brightly coloured feathers, and keep your eyes peeled for the solitary jaguar, the largest feline living in Central and South America, who find their home within the tropical rainforest.
Amidst jaw-dropping natural wonders, impressively diverse landscapes and dramatic scenery, South America is home to a remarkable array of unique wildlife. It’s the perfect location for wildlife enthusiasts or for those looking for a holiday to remember. We’ve narrowed down 5 places to see wildlife across the spectacular continent. ____ The Galapagos Islands Located roughly 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos islands are an archipelago housing a star-studded cast of thriving flora and fauna. If you’re looking to be wowed by a vast array of unique species you won’t find anywhere else in the world, then look no further. You’re bound to see the mascot of the Galapagos, charming sea lions, who love to make their presence known, napping on public benches and begging for scraps at the local fish market. Look out for the green sea turtles, particularly between December and April during hatching season. Plus, you might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the archipelago’s most elusive creatures, the pink land iguana, of which there are only about 200 left in existence. ____ Santa Catarina This Southern state of Brazil is home to secluded beaches and fishing villages, and is particularly attractive to wildlife enthusiasts due to the migration of whales to these waters. Look out for Southern Right whales, distinctive, large black stocky whales with identifiable slow moving behaviour, and the acrobatic Humpback whales, which can reach up to 18m long. Between July and November, these whales give birth, and nurse their young off the coast. Join a boat tour to spot mothers with their calves at several points along the coast for a breath-taking experience.
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