My Top 10 Adventures in South America for 2013

Travelling on my own around South America has been an adventure on its own right. During this time, I’ve climbed, trekked, went into mines, cycled, visited remote villages and saw some pretty amazing landscapes. While trying to pick my top experiences, I’ve realised this past year has been one hell of a ride! If you’re travelling to South America, you might want to consider some of these experiences for your trip!

Ice Trekking in Argentina

The Perito Moreno glacier is one of the most impressive sites in the Argentinian Patagonia and there’s no better way to get up close and personal with this icy giant than going ice trekking. This is a full day excursion that can be done from El Calafate. Even though it’s a bit overpriced, it’s still an unforgettable experience.

Visiting the mines of Potosí in Bolivia

When visiting the town of Potosí in Bolivia, it’s hard to grasp that this small city in the middle of the Altiplano used to be one of the richest places on earth. All thanks to the huge quantities of silver that were extracted from the nearby Cerro Rico. Today, it’s possible to visit the mines and see the hard-working conditions that these workers endure.

Getting to Nabusímake in Colombia

Nabusímake is not only one of the most beautiful and dreamy villages that I visited last year, it’s also one of the most remote. Getting there felt more like an expedition than anything else, the road was treacherous and muddy; it was one of the worst I’ve seen in my life!

Biking the Death Road in Bolivia

Before biking the Death Road in La Paz (Bolivia), I must admit I was nervous; that name makes it sound so intimidating. But once I got the hang of it, I became a real speed devil. It was just fun, fun, fun! There was only one time I was about to lose control of my bike and crash on a corner almost at the end. Thank God for my quick reflexes!

Trekking & Climbing in Argentina

One of my favourite places in South America was definitely the little town of El Chaltén, located in Los Glaciares NP. The landscapes of the region are simply breathtaking; plus, there’s total freedom when it comes to climbing and trekking opportunities. What else could you ask for?

Climbing the Villarrica Volcano in Chile

Climbing a volcano is one of the items on my Bucket List and I finally got to cross it off when I was in Chile. The Villarrica volcano is located near the town of Pucón and it’s one of the most popular attractions in the area. The climb was hard at some points, but the views from the summit are well worth it! Plus, you get to slide on your way down :)

Santa Cruz trek in Peru

Located in the Huascarán National Park, the Santa Cruz trek was an unforgettable experience. Not only because the landscapes of the park are truly stunning, but also because I did it independently instead of going with a tour operator. So me and my partner had total freedom to choose our own pace and thus were able to fully enjoy the views.

The Lost City trek in Colombia

Another memorable trek was the one to the Lost City in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, one of my favourite places in Colombia. After this trek I was totally filthy, tired and stinky; but it was so much fun that it was worth it. I loved it so much that I’d do it again anytime!

Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia

If you’re visiting Bolivia, one of the places that you must visit is the Uyuni Salt Flats. Normally, you take a tour on a 4×4 and, depending on what you want it takes anywhere from 1 – 4 days. I chose to do the tour from San Pedro de Atacama in Chile; it’s a bit more expensive but you get to see the sunrise over the salt flats.

Machu Picchu via the Salkantay trek in Peru

One of the best feelings I’ve had during my travels was on the moment I stood in front of Machu Picchu for the first time. I felt a sense of elation and accomplishment that I hadn’t felt before. For a moment, I couldn’t believe I was actually standing in front of this iconic view. Also, getting there via the Salkantay trek was awesome!

Have you experienced any of these? How did you like it? Which are your top adventures in South America? Leave me a comment, I’d love to know!