Explore North And South America: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
North and South America are two of the most diverse and exciting continents in the world, offering a wealth of experiences for travelers of all ages and interests. From the rugged mountains of the Andes to the tropical beaches of the Caribbean, there is something for everyone in this vast and beautiful region.
Top Attractions
North and South America are home to some of the world’s most famous and iconic attractions, including:
- The Statue of Liberty in New York City
- The Grand Canyon in Arizona
- The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
- Machu Picchu in Peru
- The Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro
Hidden Gems
While these attractions are certainly worth visiting, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover throughout North and South America. Some of our favorites include:
- The colorful streets of Cartagena, Colombia
- The stunning waterfalls of Iguazu, Argentina and Brazil
- The beautiful beaches of Tulum, Mexico
- The ancient ruins of Tikal, Guatemala
- The picturesque town of Banff, Canada
Food Scene
North and South America are also known for their delicious and diverse cuisine. From fresh seafood along the coasts to hearty barbecue in the heartland, there is no shortage of tasty dishes to try. Some of our favorites include:
- Poutine in Canada
- Tacos al pastor in Mexico
- Churrasco in Argentina
- Seafood in Peru
- Lobster rolls in New England
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling in North and South America doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips for saving money while still having a great trip:
- Take advantage of free attractions, such as museums and parks
- Stay in hostels or budget hotels
- Eat at local markets and food trucks
- Use public transportation instead of taxis
- Visit during the off-season for lower prices
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the great outdoors, North and South America offer endless opportunities for adventure. Some top activities include:
- Hiking in the Rocky Mountains
- Surfing in Hawaii
- Rafting in Costa Rica
- Skiing in Whistler, Canada
- Biking in Patagonia, Chile and Argentina
Historical Landmarks
North and South America have a rich history, and there are many landmarks that showcase this heritage. Some top sites include:
- The Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, Mexico
- The colonial architecture of Cartagena, Colombia
- The historic district of Charleston, South Carolina
- The ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru
- The Freedom Trail in Boston, Massachusetts
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? There are plenty of activities and attractions that the whole family will love. Some top picks include:
- Disney World in Orlando, Florida
- The San Diego Zoo in California
- The Museum of Natural History in New York City
- The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador
- The Harry Potter Studio Tour in London, England
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for something a little different, there are also plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in North and South America. Some options include:
- Visiting the colorful houses of La Boca, Buenos Aires
- Exploring the underground caves of Belize
- Attending a tango show in Buenos Aires
- Seeing the northern lights in Alaska
- Swimming with whale sharks in Mexico
Natural Wonders
North and South America are home to some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, including:
- The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil and Peru
- The Niagara Falls in Canada and the US
- The Rocky Mountains in the US and Canada
- The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador
- The Atacama Desert in Chile
Vibrant Nightlife
Looking for a night out on the town? North and South America have plenty of options for party-goers, including:
- The nightlife district of Lapa in Rio de Janeiro
- The clubs of Miami’s South Beach
- The jazz bars of New Orleans
- The tango shows of Buenos Aires
- The nightclubs of Cancun, Mexico
Local Markets
For a taste of local culture and cuisine, be sure to check out the many markets throughout North and South America. Some of our favorites include:
- Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington
- Mercado Central in Santiago, Chile
- Borough Market in London, England
- The San Telmo Market in Buenos Aires
- The St. Lawrence Market in Toronto, Canada
Beaches and Mountains
From tropical beaches to snow-capped peaks, North and South America have it all. Some top destinations include:
- The beaches of the Caribbean
- The ski resorts of Colorado
- The beaches of Rio de Janeiro
- The mountains of Banff, Canada
- The beaches of Tulum, Mexico
Cultural Immersion
One of the best ways to experience North and South America is to immerse yourself in the local culture. Here are some ways to do just that:
- Take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes
- Attend a cultural festival or parade
- Learn some basic phrases in the local language
- Stay with a local family or host
- Visit a local museum or art gallery
Art and Music Scene
North and South America are also home to vibrant art and music scenes. Some top destinations include:
- The street art of Valparaiso, Chile
- The galleries of New York City
- The live music of Austin, Texas
- The murals of Mexico City
- The museums of Washington, D.C.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore a new city is on foot. Many cities throughout North and South America offer walking tours that showcase the best of what they have to offer. Some top tours include:
- The Freedom Trail in Boston
- The Old City Walking Tour in Cartagena
- The Historic District Walking Tour in Savannah
- The Walking Tour of the French Quarter in New Orleans
- The Walking Tour of Old Montreal
Architectural Marvels
For architecture buffs, North and South America have plenty of impressive buildings and structures to admire. Some top picks include:
- The Empire State Building in New York City
- The Gaudi buildings in Barcelona, Spain
- The Art Deco buildings of Miami Beach
- The colonial architecture of Lima, Peru
- The Frank Gehry-designed Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles
Historical Sites
North and South America have a rich history, and there are many historical sites that showcase this past. Some top picks include:
- The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas
- The Independence Hall in Philadelphia
- The Forts of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
- The Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Florida
- The USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

North and South America map Renewable Fuels Association from www.ethanolrfa.org