Between Nature and Civilization - Exploring Argentina, Chile, and Easter Island
South America is rich in diverse landscapes and ancient civilization traces. For those interested in a deep travel experience, planning a trip that covers Argentina, Chile, and Easter Island is an opportunity to witness spectacular natural beauty and historical landmarks.
When visiting Argentina, the first stop is the capital, Buenos Aires. Santiago, the capital of Chile, serves as a hub for travels within Chile and to Easter Island. Both places have unique cultural atmospheres, and if time allows, exploring them for a few days is worthwhile. This article will focuse on introducing grand landscapes related to nature and culture.
Before setting off, make sure to prepare a travel SIM card and bring all necessary charging devices to ensure your electronic gadgets are always ready for use throughout the journey. An oversized suitcase is essential to accommodate all items needed for the long trip.
Traveling to South America often involves multiple flights and long-haul journeys. Be well-prepared with an inflatable neck pillow, eye mask, Bluetooth transmitter, and Bluetooth headphones to fully enjoy your flight time.
The World's Second-largest Waterfall - Iguazu Falls
One must-visit destination in Argentina is the Iguazu Falls. Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage site, but it is also the world's second-largest waterfall, spanning Argentina and Brazil with 275 individual falls. The Devil's Throat, a horseshoe-shaped waterfall standing at 90 meters tall and 450 meters wide, is a highlight. Exploring the park can be done on foot or by taking the free train that connects various points and trail entrances. Besides admiring the Iguazu Falls from different angles, the park offers trails of varying lengths, providing opportunities to observe diverse plant and animal life in the surrounding forest. For a more immersive experience, consider taking a boat ride to feel the power of nature up close.
The power of the Iguazu Falls is formidable; even standing nearby for a short while can result in getting splashed by water droplets. If you're planning to get close to the waterfall, it's essential to bring waterproof bags to protect your belongings and use waterproof phone cases. This way, you can capture the once-in-a-lifetime moment safely.
The Oldest Site for Dinosaur Fossil Discoveries - Ischigualasto
Ischigualasto National Park, near the Chilean border, can be explored with day tours starting from San Juan in western Argentina. Locally known as the "Place Where the Moon Lands," Ischigualasto is not only known for its unique terrain but is also the oldest site for dinosaur fossil discoveries. Access to the protected area requires a guide, and there are routes of different lengths and difficulties, available for hiking or guided driving (with a guide accompanying). The Painted Valley, one of Ischigualasto's most famous terrains, showcases canyons with varying colors formed by mineral salt deposits. The park also features giant, peculiarly shaped stones scattered throughout, displaying the wonders of nature.
In South America, Spanish is widely spoken. In less popular tourist areas, language barriers may arise. Carrying a smart translation device can make your journey more reassuring and comfortable.
The Best Trekking Route - Torres del Paine National Park
Torres del Paine National Park is a major destination for those visiting Chile, renowned for its trekking opportunities. The W Circuit (4-5 days) is the most popular route, passing through glaciers, lakes, and forests. Accommodation options include lodges or pre-booked camping sites. For more experienced hikers, the O Circuit (9-10 days) offers a more challenging journey with some sections lacking lodges, only featuring camping areas. Regardless of the route chosen, a certain level of physical fitness is required for hours of continuous hiking. Plan your route and accommodation well in advance, as the park can get crowded, and proof of reservation is needed for entry.
Several days of hiking require stamina, and you may consider packing only what you need for the trek, leaving other luggage at your accommodation before departure. A travel backpack can make your hiking journey more comfortable.
The Most Mysterious Remote Island - Easter Island
Easter Island is a remote island surrounded by the sea, located over two thousand kilometers away from the nearest inhabited island. While access to Easter Island is not the most convenient, requiring a layover in Santiago, Chile, or Tahiti, the island's giant moai statues attract many visitors annually. The process of creating and transporting these statues remains a mystery in the field of archaeology. Easter Island, formed by three volcanoes, has an area of 163.6 square kilometers. Exploring various sites around the island can be done by renting bicycles, motorcycles, or cars. Staying on the island for three to five days, there are both hotels and campsites available. Apart from the moai statues scattered across the island, there is one moai statue submerged underwater, offering a unique opportunity for diving enthusiasts to explore.
In the poetic landscapes, don't miss the chance to capture memorable moments. Bring a mobile phone stabilizer for selfies, and a portable tripod for shooting videos, ensuring you can document all the unforgettable moments at any time.