20 interesting facts about
Latin America
If you’re planning to travel to South America, you’ve likely done your research
Whether through online resources, travel guides, or recommendations from friends and agencies, you probably already know a lot about the region’s iconic landmarks, rich history, delicious food, and vibrant culture. But did you know there are even more surprising facts that could influence the destinations you choose to explore?
Let’s dive into some of the most intriguing aspects of Latin America, from the Galapagos to Bolivia!
- Lava flows beneath your feet: The islands of Fernandina and Isabela are still active volcanoes, continuously reshaping their landscapes.
- The marine iguana is unique in the world! found only in Galápagos, is the world’s only sea-going lizard—imagine a miniature Godzilla that dives underwater!
- With over 9,000 species registered on the Galapagos islands, more than 30% are endemic; they do not exist anywhere else on the planet. And the human population? Fewer than 30,000.
- The Ecuadorian Andes are home to more than 400 different types of native potatoes.
- The summit of Chimborazo is 2,100 meters farther from the Earth’s center than Everest, making it technically closer to outer space!
- In Yasuní National Park, one hectare contains more tree species than all of North America combined.
- Ecuador is home to the Huaorani, Tagaeri, and Taromenane tribes, who live in voluntary isolation, preserving their ancestral way of life.
- The most awarded chocolate in the world comes from cacao from the Ecuadorian Amazon.
- The Inca ruins we know as Machu Picchu were never called that by the Incas. The name simply means “Old Mountain.”
- The famous 12-angled stone in Cusco is a testament to the Incas’ incredible engineering skills, still standing strong after centuries.
- The ancient city of Cusco was deliberately designed in the shape of a puma, symbolizing strength and power.
- At the Temple of the Sun (Koricancha), certain stones resonate with different sounds when tapped, hinting at an ancient sacred acoustic design.
- The wax palm trees in the Cocora Valley are the tallest in the world. They can reach up to 60 meters.
- The traditional Colombian bag known as the carriel has over 20 secret compartments, each designed with a specific purpose.
- Colombian coffee isn’t just famous for its quality—it’s also celebrated for its diverse flavor profiles. In regions like Quindío, you can experience more than 10 unique coffee flavors.
- The original Bandeja Paisa was so big that it was often eaten over two days by peasants.
- Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni holds an estimated 50% of the world’s lithium reserves, a crucial resource for modern technology.
- Legend has it that Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, the founders of the Inca Empire, were born in Lake Titicaca and emerged to the surface.
- On Isla del Sol, families live without electricity or cars, and tourism is done by walking among millenary agricultural terraces.
- Bolivia’s Salt Palace is a true architectural marvel—built entirely from compressed salt blocks, even the beds and chairs are made from salt! glued together only with more salt and water
Can you imagine yourself being one of the few who could witness these wonders?
The best travel destinations in South America.
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