South America stands as a continent brimming with natural marvels. From the expansive expanse of the world’s largest rainforest to the cascading magnificence of its tallest waterfall, this region boasts an array of landscapes that leave visitors in awe. For enthusiasts of the outdoors, a journey through South America guarantees encounters with extraordinary wildlife and pristine ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth.
In our quest to unveil the most remarkable natural wonders, we’ve curated a list of the top 3 in South America. Drawing from esteemed sources such as National Geographic and UNESCO World Heritage sites recognized for their ecological importance, these selections epitomize the continent’s iconic biodiversity and awe-inspiring scenery.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil
Spanning nine different countries, these wonders represent a tapestry of biomes from lush rainforests to arid deserts to towering glaciers. While our list captures only a glimpse of South America’s natural diversity, it serves as a testament to the continent’s extraordinary contributions to our planet’s natural heritage. From the Amazon’s majestic might in Brazil to Argentina’s monumental waterfalls, these breathtaking marvels exemplify South America’s profound impact on the world’s natural landscape.
Located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls stands as the world’s largest waterfall system. Spanning nearly 3 kilometers (2 miles) along the Iguazu River, this awe-inspiring cascade comprises 275 individual waterfalls. From the towering Devil’s Throat to the picturesque Bosetti and San Martin falls, nature’s grandeur unfolds on an epic scale.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unparalleled beauty and rich biodiversity, Iguazu Falls offers visitors a multitude of perspectives. Viewing platforms, catwalks, and boat tours provide immersive experiences, allowing visitors to witness the thundering rush of water from various angles. The resounding roar of the falls reverberates through the air, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. Surrounding rainforests are vibrant ecosystems teeming with diverse wildlife, from colorful birds to playful coatis, adding to the enchantment of this natural wonder.
Atacama Desert, Chile
Stretching across a 1,000-kilometer strip of northern Chile, the Atacama Desert boasts some of the most extreme arid conditions on the planet. Certain regions within this desert have never experienced a single drop of rain in recorded history, rendering the landscape eerily barren and reminiscent of the Martian terrain.
Despite its seemingly lifeless expanse, the Atacama harbors captivating natural marvels. Beneath the crystal-clear night skies, devoid of moisture and light pollution, lie the world’s premier astronomical observatories. Moreover, the desert features striking salt flats, active geysers, and vibrant mineral deposits that punctuate its stark beauty. Perched high in the Andes above the Atacama, pristine lakes and reservoirs attract a diverse array of wildlife, including elegant pink flamingos, adding a touch of vibrancy to this otherwise otherworldly landscape.
Caño Cristales, Colombia
Nestled within Colombia’s Meta province, in the heart of Serranía de la Macarena National Park, lies the extraordinary Caño Cristales, often hailed as the “River of Five Colors” or the “Liquid Rainbow.” This breathtaking appellation derives from the river’s mesmerizing display of vibrant hues—red, yellow, green, blue, and black—adorned along its banks for a brief period each year.
This natural wonder unfolds when the Macarenia clavigera riverweed undergoes its annual bloom, a phenomenon that occurs during the transitional months between the region’s extreme wet and dry seasons. Typically observed from July to November, with the peak of colors occurring in June and November, this magical display owes its splendor to the delicate interplay of water flow and sunlight penetration. It is this precise alignment of environmental factors that allows the aquatic plants to unveil their kaleidoscopic brilliance, creating a spectacle unmatched anywhere else on our planet.