South America's Earth Wonders

Natural Wonders: Amazon, Galapagos, Angel Falls


South America is a magical place with natural wonders including the powerful Amazon River, the wild Galapagos Islands and the tallest waterfall in the world, Angel Falls.

Amazon River
The wide Amazon River winds its way 4,000 miles through 6 countries in South America. Along the banks of the great river there are villages of remote tribes, thriving small cities and unique biodiversity in the tropical rainforest. It's a wildlife dreamscape where 1/3 of the world's species can be found, including rare mammals like the pink-hued Amazon River dolphin.

Galapagos Islands
Little has changed on the Galapagos, the collection of islands straddling the equator off of Ecuador's coast, since Charles Darwin first visited in 1835. The animal population still far outnumbers the human headcount, and many of the unusual creatures can only be found living along these islands. There are giant tortoises, marine iguanas and 57 species of birds including large black frigate sea birds and the blue-footed booby. Because they have never been hunted by humans or animal predators, the animals are relaxed and even approachable as visitors on tours can get close to these wildlife wonders.

Angel Falls
Angel Falls is the tallest waterfall in the world with water cascading down 3,000 feet, more than twice the height of the towering Empire State Building. The wild waterfall flows into the Churun River, which runs through the tropical Canaima National Park. This protected park is far removed from the rest of the world, giving it an unexplored vibe with lush forests, sandstone mountains called tepuis and unique vegetation including cool carnivorous plants like bromeliads.

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