subject: Best Galapagos Islands Adventures [print this page] South America travel offers a range of experiences from mountain vistas to serene islands. There are the unique Galapagos Islands and the lush rain forest, which extends from Brazil to Peru and other countries in South America. The forest extends to Columbia and six other countries as well. Any time spent in the rain forest will bring you into contact with colorful birds and thick foliage that are beyond imagination.
How exciting to enjoy the beautiful Andes Mountains from the vantage point of the back of a horse. Ride a well-schooled horse through amazing wine country scenes. A yearly event is held in Ecuador, which takes a group of experienced riders along on an authentic round-up. Actual working cowboys herd and rope these powerful animals. A few of the tourists can try throwing a lasso.
The Galapagos Islands are rich with birds and exotic animals. Species of birds include penguins and countless birds of flight. Charles Darwin studied his finches here. The nesting birds proliferate here in this protected region. Three hundred pound tortoises make their way over the islands, munching the lush tropical vegetation.
Those rainbow colors are repeated underneath the surrounding waters. Scuba diving and snorkeling reveal the splendor to those adventurous scuba divers and snorkelers. Bright marine life of all kinds is discovered swimming fast and slow in the silent depths. The clear and pristine sea waters allow them to be viewed.
Walking on water is one of the active ways to enjoy the wildlife. Sea turtles swim below the clear waters and sea lions line the shores. This activity is performed by standing on a board and paddling along over the serene sea water. This skill is easy to learn.
The ruins of the ancient city, Machu Picchu, are located 2,430 feet above sea level. Its elaborate series of terraces arouse the curiosity of everyone about the sophistication of those long ago builders. It was an amazing achievement and traces of their accomplishments are evident in the ruins.
There are people living peacefully in the valleys around Machu Picchu. They exist by farming as did their ancestors all those years ago. Now it is a sanctuary for the ocelot, dwarf brocket and llama as well as the spectacled bear. The crops grown are maize and potatoes. Old villages are interesting to see, including one called Cuzco. Influences of the Incas who built Machu Picchu are still evident.
From the Andes in Peru to the beaches of the coastal area, there are displays of beauty in the scenery and the wildlife. From Machu Picchu to Iguazu Falls and Pantanal wetlands to the volcanic landscapes in Ecuador, South America travel is filled with adventure. Trails through the rain forest to the Brazilian Green Coast are in the midst of lush foliage and bright colors. There in the rain forest is the beauty of brightly colored Parrots and smaller birds. South America travel is filled with amazing things, from the mountains in Peru to the waters off the Galapagos Islands.
