A Land of Rainforests, Ruins & Rhythms
South America is a vibrant and diverse continent located in the Southern and Western Hemispheres, renowned for its ecological richness, ancient civilizations, and passionate cultures. It is home to the world’s largest river basin, longest mountain range, and a collection of dynamic, resource-rich nations.
Formation & Historical Background
- Inhabited by ancient civilizations: Incas, Tiahuanaco, Moche, Mapuche
- 1494–1800s: Colonized mainly by Spain and Portugal following European explorations
- 19th Century: Independence movements led by Simón Bolívar and others created new nations
- Modern era: Diverse democracies and developing economies, united in trade by Mercosur & UNASUR
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Continent Name | South America |
| Total Countries | 12 Sovereign States + Territories |
| Total Area | Approx. 17.84 million sq. km |
| Population (2025) | Over 440 million |
| Largest Country | Brazil (by area and population) |
| Smallest Country | Suriname |
| Highest Point | Aconcagua, Argentina – 6,961 meters |
| Longest River | Amazon River – 6,575 km |
| Major Regions | Northern, Western (Andes), Eastern (Atlantic), Southern Cone |
Countries in South America
Territories:
Economy, Trade & Resources
- Top Economies: Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Chile
- Natural Resources: Oil (Venezuela), Copper (Chile), Lithium (Bolivia), Soybeans (Brazil)
- Agriculture & Exports: Coffee, sugar, beef, bananas, gold, wine
- Trade Alliances: Mercosur, Pacific Alliance, ALBA
Culture, Language & Religion
- Languages: Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (most countries), Dutch, French, English
- Religions: Christianity (mostly Catholic), Afro-American & Indigenous beliefs
- Celebrations: Carnival (Brazil), Inti Raymi (Peru), Tango Festival (Argentina)
- Renowned for music, dance, football, literature, street art
Tourism & Attractions
- Natural Wonders: Amazon Rainforest, Angel Falls, Galápagos Islands, Atacama Desert
- Historical Sites: Machu Picchu (Peru), Christ the Redeemer (Brazil), Easter Island (Chile)
- Cities of Culture: Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Bogotá, Quito, Santiago
- Adventure: Andes trekking, Amazon boat tours, Patagonia expeditions
Summary
South America is a continent of untamed beauty, soulful expression, and rising power. From the Amazon’s green lungs to the Andes’ icy peaks, and from Inca trails to cosmopolitan capitals, South America tells a story of nature, resilience, and rhythm.