Latin America, Latin America. Latin America

We invite you to explore all the best that is in Latin America, in one trip! Spend three weeks on the land that holds the heritage of the Aztec, Inca and Mayan civilizations, which has become the birthplace of passionate tango and incendiary rhythms of samba, which has concentrated a huge number of original traditions and cultures dating back centuries. In Peru you will visit the ancient city of Machu Picchu and get to one of the seven wonders of the world - the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and you will be able to see the little-known gems of this legendary attraction, in Chile you will climb Mount San Cristobal in Santiago de Chile, to the statue of the Holy Virgin Mary, and explore Easter Island and its mysterious monumental sculptures, visit a traditional tango show in Buenos Aires, see the famous Foz de Iguaçu waterfalls from Argentina and Brazil, and travel to colorful Rio de Janeiro.

If this route does not suit you, we suggest you create your own individual trip together with our specialists.
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Peru, Chile, Argentina and Brazil in one trip!

Tour duration: 21 days / 20 nights.

Tour dates in 2019: on request. Check-in possible May holidays!

Tour itinerary:
Peru: Lima - Cusco - Inca Valley - Machu Picchu - Cusco - Puno - Juliaca - Lima.
Chile: Santiago de Chile - Easter Island - Santiago de Chile - Viña del Mar and Valparaiso - Santiago de Chile.
Argentina: Buenos Aires - San Antonio de Los Cobres - Santa Rosa Tastil - Salta - Iguazu.
Brazil: Rio de Janeiro - Angrados Flight - Rio de Janeiro.

Tour cost per person: from $6320*.

Tour program

Day 1. Lima

International flight to Lima airport, meeting and transfer to Casa Andina Select Miraflores 4* hotel.

Day 2. Lima

In the morning you will get acquainted with Lima - the "city of kings", located along the coast Pacific Ocean. The sightseeing tour will start in the Miraflores area, which offers excellent panoramic views of the surroundings and the ocean. Two attractions await you in the park: the building a la Gaudí, the walls of which are covered with lines from the love lyrics of local poets, and the sculpture of Victor Delfin "Kiss". From there you will travel to the historical center of Peru. The road will pass by the Pyramid of Huaca Pucllana, the ceremonial center of the city's culture, the pyramid of Huaca Huallamarca, the financial center of San Isidro, and an ancient pre-Inca sanctuary.

On the Central square of the city you will see the Palaces of the Government and the Archbishop, the Municipality and the Cathedral. The next stage of the tour is a visit to the Dominican monastery XVI century, which contains the relics of Peruvian saints - Santa Rosa and San Martin. The library of the monastery has more than 25 thousand rare editions, most of which have been preserved in a single copy, and in 1551 the very first university of the New World was opened in its Capitular Hall.

The duration of the tour is 4 hours.

Meals: breakfast.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Day 3 Lima - Cusco - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu

Transfer to the airport and flight to the city of Cusco, located at an altitude of 3309 meters above sea level. Journey to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On the way to it, you will visit the archaeological park of Sacsayhuaman. According to legend, this ceremonial complex was erected by the very first Inca - Manco Capac. The huge buildings of the park wonderfully harmonize with the most beautiful surrounding landscapes.

The tour will continue with a visit to the Kenko Shrine, where you will see a stone altar carved right inside the rock. On the same day you will find yourself in the Puka Pukara watchtower and the sacred springs of health and life of Tambomachay.

After that, a real adventure awaits you while walking through the little-known gems of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It will start at the traditional Pisak market, where you can buy souvenirs, as well as taste delicious pies and bread cooked in a traditional local oven. Next, you will move to Maras with its famous salt terraces of the colonial period. The hand-picked salt here is of very high quality and is used by the best chefs in Peru.

The tour will continue in the town of Moray, located 3500 meters above sea level. Here you will see the famous amphitheatre-shaped concentric terraces. The exhibition complex recreates 20 zones with different microclimates. Scientists say that this is what allowed the Incas to collect excellent crops.

Machu Picchu, Peru

In the afternoon you will visit the huge pyramid city of the ancient Incas of Ollantaytambo - a mysterious place where messages to descendants are encrypted in the outlines of nearby mountains, and figures of deities (Condor and Tunupa) are also visible. Further in the program - the ascent to the Temple of the Sun. Its construction was prevented from completing the civil wars and the conquest of these parts of America by the Spaniards and the Portuguese. The surface of the giant boulders from which the temple is built is perfectly polished.

Transfer to the Ollanta train station, boarding the Expedition train and a 1.5-hour transfer to Machu Picchu - one of the new seven wonders of the world. Check-in at the Tierra Viva Machupicchu 4* hotel.

Meals: breakfast, lunch (buffet).

Day 4 Machu Picchu - Cusco

Bus trip to lost city the Incas." You will be able to climb to its top along a winding road and enjoy the breathtaking beautiful views the canyon of the Urubamba River. This whole journey usually takes about half an hour.

One of the seven wonders of the world - the ancient city of Machu Picchu - is located at the very top mountain range, at an altitude of two and a half kilometers above sea level. During its construction, technologies unknown in our time were used. Magnificent terraces, steps, ceremonial buildings and even residential buildings - all this is sure to make a strong impression on you. The powerful energy of antiquity and strength is felt everywhere here, and the views that open up are simply breathtaking. The uniqueness of the tour lies in the fact that you will visit Machu Picchu in the morning, and you will be able to fully explore it before the daily large influx of tourists.

The tour of Machu Picchu takes a total of about 2.5 hours. After you go down to the village on tourist bus and have lunch at a local restaurant. At the appointed time - return to the train, return transfer to Ollanta station (travel time - about 1.5 hours), transfer to the hotel in Cusco (travel time - about 1.5 hours).

Meals: breakfast, lunch.

Day 5 Cusco - Puno

In the morning, take the scenic road to Wanchaq Station to take the Titicaca Train to Puno. This tourist train is one of the main temptations for travelers. On the way from Cusco to Puno, it crosses the Andes at an altitude of 4,319 meters and allows you to see the majestic snow-capped peaks, covered with bright green plains and turbulent rivers. The carriages have panoramic windows. Lunch will be organized right in the car.

Moving to the border with Cusco, where the La Raya pass is located. From its observation deck, located at an altitude of 4400 meters above sea level, magnificent views of the Andes peaks open up. There is also a colorful roadside market where you can buy products of local craftsmen.

Arrival at the station, meeting with an English-speaking guide and transfer to the port. Departure on a small boat floating islands Uros. Accommodation at Uros Titicaca LODGE.

Day 6 Puno - Juliaca - Lima

On this day, you can choose the option of rest. For example, visit the man-made islands of Uros, created from reeds. Their friendly inhabitants are often called the "people of the lakes", they always show tourists their way of life and talk about traditions with great pleasure. This tour includes a ride on a Totora boat and a carving workshop. In addition, kayaking and canoeing are available. During these activities you will be accompanied by a local English speaking guide.

After the tour - transfer to the airport of Juliaca and flight to Lima. Arrival and transfer international flight in Chile.

Meals: breakfast.

Puno, Peru

Day 7 Santiago de Chile

Arrival in Santiago de Chile. Santiago is a modern metropolis with interesting architecture and breathtaking landscapes. One of the main attractions is the hill of Santa Lucia, on which stands an ancient castle. Here, at the foot of the hill, the city was founded. Above which, on Mount San Cristobal, the statue of the Virgin Mary towers majestically, guarding the inhabitants of Santiago.

Meeting with Russian speaking guide and transfer to Montecarlo Hotel. After lunch - 4-hour sightseeing tour of the city. It will begin with a visit to the La Moneda Palace, which at first housed the mint, and then became the seat of government. You will visit central square Santiago, it is called the Plaza de Armas. Not far from it is the largest Cathedral in the country, in addition, the House of the Governors of Chile, the Municipality of Santiago, the Main Post Office and the building of the Royal Audience are located here.

After you climb Mount San Cristobal to the statue of the Holy Virgin Mary, this observation deck offers magnificent panoramic views of the city's surroundings. In addition, you will travel through modern urban areas - Vitacura, Las Condes and Providencia, as well as a trip along the Mapocho River and acquaintance with the majestic architecture of the main avenues of Santiago.

Day 8 Santiago de Chile - Easter Island

Flight to Easter Island, meeting with a Russian-speaking guide and accommodation at the Iorana hotel.

Meals: breakfast

Day 9 Easter Island

Free time until lunch. After - an excursion to the Ahu-Akivi platform, located in the center of the island. Here you will see 7 moai, personifying the legend that gives rise to the culture of Rapa Nui - about the arrival of the Polynesian population on the island. Moai look towards the sea, which is not typical for these statues.

You will also visit the Puna Pau quarry, where red stone was added for moai headdresses. From the local observation deck, excellent views of Hanga Roa open up.

Meals: breakfast.

Day 10 Easter Island

A full-day sightseeing tour of Anakena, during which you will see the monumental moai sculptures that made Easter Island famous throughout the world. The journey will begin with a stop at Ahu Akahanga or the "king's platform". According to legend, the bones of the first king of Easter Island - Hotu Matua are buried in this place.

Continuation of the tour to the crater of the Rano Raraku volcano, where 95% of all moai statues were made. Today, 394 of these statues can be seen on the island. As you climb the slope of the volcano, you will see a large number of moai and a beautiful lake with cool water.

Lunch box in nature. Next stop is Ahu Tongariki, this magnificent platform is the largest and most famous on the island with 15 moai. Mysterious place was completely destroyed by the tsunami in 1960, and restored in 1992-1995 with the participation of the Japanese government.

Later, you will travel to the Poike peninsula on the north coast, stopping at Ahu Te Pito Cura, the site of the largest statue outside the quarry and the energy center of the island.

Easter Island, Chile

Visit to Anakena Beach, where, according to local legend, Hotu Matua first landed on the land. Here you can see Ahu Nau Nau, partially restored in 1978 by local archaeologist Sergio Rapu. Nearby is Ahu Ature Huki. The moai towering in this place was the first one raised to the platform on Easter Island. Anakena beach with pink sand and palm trees - this is a place where you can swim and swim.

Return to the village of Hanga Roa along the road passing through the center of the island.

Meals: breakfast, lunch box.

Day 11 Easter Island

Excursion to the Rano Kao volcano and the ruins of the city of Orongo. Climb to the top of the Rano Kau volcano, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the entire island, its coastline, volcanoes and the village of Hanga Roa. Stop at the observation deck, from where you can see the giant crater (more than 1.5 kilometers in diameter) of the volcano, filled with water, and the ceremonial village of Orongo.

Continuation of the excursion around the village. This is the place where the leader was chosen for a year through a risky contest. All the clans of the island gathered in the spring in numerous stone "houses", waiting for the arrival of the sacred bird Manutara, in order to select Tangat Manu, the bird-man.

Meals: breakfast.

Day 12 Easter Island - Santiago de Chile

Flight to Santiago, transfer to Montecarlo Hotel.

Meals: breakfast.

Day 13 Santiago de Chile - Viña del Mar and Valparaiso - Santiago de Chile

Road to the seaside towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaiso. She will pass through picturesque vineyards, orchards and the valleys of Curakovi and Casablanca (about 120 kilometers from Santiago).

Along the way, you will stop at one of the famous wineries, where you can get acquainted with all the features of the production and storage of Chilean wines, as well as taste their best varieties.

Arrival in Valparaiso - the center of the Chilean bohemia, main port Pacific coast South America and a real dream for adventurers, pirates and smugglers. Historical Center The city is a cultural heritage of mankind and is under the protection of UNESCO. The different levels of the city are interconnected by a system of ancient lifts - funiculars, stairs and footpaths.

Walk along Sotomayor Square and visit the building of the maritime department, which is a national monument. You will then reach Concepción Hill, following Gervasoni and Atkinson boulevards. During this walk you will appreciate the magnificent views of the seaport - one of the main symbols of Valparaiso.

Moving to Viña del Mar, often referred to as the "garden city". On his picturesque coastline there are magnificent beaches and majestic cliffs. You will see the main city attractions: flower clock, Regnac beach, promenade and Fonk museum.

Meals: breakfast.

Day 14. Santiago de Chile - Buenos Aires

Flight to one largest cities peace and elegant business center Argentina - Buenos Aires. Transfer to the Pestana 4* hotel, sightseeing tour of the city with a tour of the ancient district, which gave the world tango - La Boca, and the historic San Telmo, famous for its large number of cozy bars and restaurants. Not far from these objects is the Russian Orthodox Church. Buenos Aires is famous for its numerous museums, theaters, art galleries and architectural monuments.

Inspection of Recoleta - one of the most fashionable and picturesque districts of the capital, and the famous cemetery with a church in colonial style- El Pilar. Palermo will please with an abundance of gardens and parks. The newest area of ​​the city - stylish Puerto Madero - is famous for its picturesque waterfront, chic shops, hotels and restaurants.

In the evening, a tango show awaits you with a traditional Argentine dinner (drinks included). Argentine tango in September 2009 was recognized by UNESCO as the World Cultural Intangible Heritage of Humanity. It is considered a full part of the Argentine culture, which simultaneously expresses deep emotions and feelings, a vibrant, unique combination of music, dance and poetry, passed down from generation to generation, identifying Argentines all over the world. Guests of the country can join the unique culture of this country by mastering at least a few dance steps.

Meals: dinner.

Day 15 Buenos Aires

Visiting the estate of cowboys - Santa Susana. Lunch with drinks is included in the price of the program. You will visit a traditional Argentinean ranch and plunge into the life and life of the cowboys of the South American pampas - gauchos. For the Argentines, the pampa, which we traditionally call “pampas” in Russian, is not just a vast endless plain, it is a powerful layer of culture rooted in the distant past.

Folklore performances and a feast with dances, traditional music and, of course, delicious Argentinean meat on the grill are waiting for you! T

Flight from Buenos Aires to Salta, accommodation in hotel complex Ayresde Salto.

Meals: breakfast, lunch.

Day 16. Salta - San Antonio de los Cobres - Santa Rosa Tastil - Salta

Early in the morning you will travel on the famous "train in the clouds". You will pass by the field of Quijano and continue on your way to the picturesque area of ​​Sola, namely to the town of Alfarcito, where a picnic is planned, during which you will try traditional dishes from local products.

Afterwards, you will explore the gorge of the caves and the plains of Murano, and later go to San Antonio de Los Cobres. Arrive at the train station where you will have one hour to the viaduct, at an altitude of 4200 meters above sea level, where you can view the largest engineering work of the last century. Return to San Antonio de Los Cobres, transfer and transfer to Salta.

On the way to Salta, you will stop at the town of Santa Rosa Tastil, which is famous for its museum. Don't miss the opportunity to shop for souvenirs and local products at the Artisans' Centre.

Meals: breakfast, picnic.

Day 17 Iguazu

Private transfer to the airport, departure from Salta. Arrival in Puerto Iguazu. Transfer to Orquideas Palace hotel with Russian speaking interpreter.

Iguazu Falls

Day 18. Iguazu

Iguazu - national park located in Argentina and Brazil. On this day, you will travel to the waterfalls located on the Argentine side (accompanied by Russian speaking guide, the entrance to the park is included in the price of the tour). You will set off across the Tancredo Neves Bridge, which connects the banks of the Iguazu River.

This part of the natural park is different in that here you can not only look at the waterfalls from the side, but also be above and directly below the raging water flows. For this, numerous bridges, passages and paths have been created, allowing you to get very close to each of the many natural attractions. You will ride on an ecological train through the territory of a picturesque park, visit numerous observation platforms, and also pass along the Upper and Lower routes.

It includes parts of North and South America. The list of Latin American countries consists of thirty-three states and thirteen colonies. The area of ​​this region is 21 sq. million

Detailed map of Latin America

The development of all Latin American countries is different. They are inhabited by people of different nationalities, including Indians and Spaniards. Because of this, Latin American countries amaze with the variety of traditions and customs that are observed everywhere.

List of countries

List of countries in Latin America.

1. is one of the largest countries in the world. The country became famous for its love of football and an energetic dance called "tango". In Argentina, travelers are waiting for ancient monasteries, theaters and many kilometers of beaches of Buenos Aires.
2. Bolivia is a poor but safe country for tourists. To visit it, citizens of Russia and the population of the CIS countries will need a visa. On the territory of Bolivia there are six sites that are included in the UNESCO list.
3. Brazil is a country of carnivals and carelessness. It attracts millions of travelers from all over the world who want to relax under the scorching sun. .
   In this video, watch how to apply for a visa to Brazil.
   
4. Venezuela is the country with the highest waterfall in the world. The state is rich national parks and protected areas. It is recommended to go on a trip from December to March. At this time, ideal climatic conditions reign.
5. Haiti is a state that has become famous because of its poverty. Development in the country has practically stopped. However, the unique tradition and culture of the people of Haiti attract tourists from all over the world.
6. Guatemala is a small country in Latin America, which has rich history. Volcanoes and untouched nature are what attracts travelers to this place.
7. Honduras is a state that continues the list of Latin American countries. It consists of islands located in the Caribbean Sea. The main problem of the state is crime.
   
8. famous for its beaches and gentle sea. The official language is Spanish. Tourists are expected by a friendly population. It is recommended to travel to the Dominican Republic from December to March.
9. Colombia is a state that Russians do not need a visa to visit. You are allowed to stay in the country for 90 days. The vast plains of the country and the Andes mountains will not leave indifferent any traveler.
10. - a state famous for its diverse and magnificent beaches. The country has all the conditions that are required for scuba diving and surfing.
11. - a country in which state language recognized as Spanish. Despite this, almost all employees of hotels, restaurants and shops are fluent in English language. The holiday season in Cuba lasts from November to April.
12. - a state for visiting which residents of Russia and Ukraine can obtain a visa in electronic form. This country - real paradise for lovers of diving and surfing.
13. Nicaragua is a country with great political and economic problems. Despite this, it is a charming place to travel. Picturesque nature and diverse landscapes are the main advantages of the state.
    
14. Panama - interesting country Latin America, in which the well-known resort called Bocas del Toro is located. Panama will appeal to lovers of ecotourism and hiking;
    
15. Paraguay is a country where you need to get vaccinated against yellow fever. Colonial architecture is what attracts many tourists.
16. Peru is a country that can be proud of its rich ecosystem. Citizens of Russia and Ukraine do not need a visa to visit the country. It is allowed to stay in Peru without a visa for 90 days.
17. El Salvador is a state that is practically not focused on tourism. This is due to the activity of local volcanoes and frequent earthquakes. In El Salvador, volunteer programs became more prevalent after the disaster in 2001.
18. Uruguay is one of the smallest countries in Latin America. It is located on the coast Atlantic Ocean. Despite the constant flow of tourists, Uruguay is absolutely safe.
    
19. Ecuador is a country that is located not only on the mainland, but also on the Galapagos Islands. Russians and the population of the CIS countries do not need a visa to visit the country. The permitted period of stay is 90 days. Ecuador is one of the safest countries in the world.
20. Chile is a state for visiting which Russians do not need to apply for a visa. Lake Chungara and Miscanti are the main attractions.
21. Martinique is a state located on an island. The main attraction of the camp is nature - beaches and bays. There are all conditions for water sports or swimming.
22. Guadeloupe is a country that requires a visa to visit. The state consists of eight islands, in which there are many protected areas.
23. - a country rich in Spanish architecture and ancient fortresses located on sea ​​coast. Tourists are attracted by seasonal competitions in fishing and canoeing.
    
24. St. Barts is an island that strikes with its beauty. Mostly oligarchs of different nationalities, including Russians, live on its territory. High prices are the reason for the lack of huge masses of tourists.
25. Saint Martin is one of the small but inhabited islands in the world. Tourists are attracted by kilometers of beaches, blue and warm sea, all the conditions necessary for diving, fishing and water sports.

French Guiana location on the map

Latin America is worth visiting, if only because life, culture, nature, cities, sights, food there are different from the usual Eurasian ones. And, of course, I want to see more of everything, since I was going there.

In two months, I managed to travel from Havana to the Strait of Magellan along the Panamericana (Cuba, Ecuador, Peru, Chile), and return back along the Atlantic coast and the center of the continent (Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Cuba).

Preparation

If you are going to Latin America, you will definitely need:

• Travel insurance for all countries you plan to visit.
• At least a small amount of cash dollars (and better euros for Cuba).
• Electric adapter (there are universal ones for any country).
• Activated charcoal (or strong alcohol) to disinfect the digestive system. I also had vaccinations against hepatitis and yellow fever.
• Drugs against malaria (it is better to buy in the area where this attack is possible, I did not need it).
• A guide like this one.
• Goodwill, ability to smile and negotiate.

Most of the countries of South America are visa-free for Russians, which greatly simplifies the traveler's life.

Flight to Latin America

You can also consider tickets Moscow - Casablanca - Sao Paulo or Moscow - Lisbon - Sao Paulo. Popular tourist destinations for Russians, this is Mexico (a visa is needed) and the Dominican Republic, try to find charter tickets.

Cuba is an island from which you cannot sail away, you can only fly away. For example, in Quito.

Buses

This is the cheapest way to move around Latin America.

In poor countries, buses will be late. Strongly. For example, in Bolivia, I once waited for transport for three hours.

Be on time for your booked buses as tickets are non-refundable.

When traveling by bus, keep in mind that transportation is carried out by private companies, and centralized bus stations are not everywhere. If they are, you will have to pay a little extra for access to the platform to the landing site, as well as for luggage. Therefore, specify where the transport departs from in the selected direction.

The buses themselves are most often old, they can break down on the road, they do not have a toilet. On mountain roads(and they are all mountain there) it will be cold at the top. If you get off to stretch your legs at a stopover, don't be surprised that your seat will be taken and the things you left (even rubbish) will disappear. Just tell the invader that this is your place and ask for the property back.

Movies will be shown all the way. Loud. Even at night. If there is a task, choose sleeping places on the bus, they are called cama.

In Chile (and Argentina too), don't go overboard with distances. The country is long, 40 hour bus is common. However, this is not the best solution, although you can choose sleeping places and hot meals included in the price. You just need to walk the body, and not sit by the window.

The border between Peru and Ecuador should not be crossed international buses. It is better to get to the very border, cross it and go by other transport. Check your posting times in advance. Some may close due to weather conditions.

Moving to the more economically developed and expensive Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay is accompanied by multiple border checks and the seizure of products prohibited from being transported from poor countries.

Spanish

Thanks to the conquistadors in most countries of Latin America, except for Portuguese-speaking Brazil and some French colonies people speak spanish. Of course, in different areas there are words and something may differ. The accents are very different. Mine, for example, was ideal for Chile: there are many immigrants from Eastern Europe.

Before the trip, you can watch a course of 16 video lessons for 45 minutes:

In principle, if you only know English, you will not be lost. I came across travelers who did not speak it either, but only, for example, in their native Japanese or Italian, and nothing, somehow moved and absorbed new sensations. But for me personally, the inability to discuss everything I want is discomfort and a motivator to learn a new language.

In my experience, it's a great idea to go study Spanish in the capital of Ecuador. There are many schools, very humane prices and programs. Language schools are also good in that they organize events for students. There you can meet great guys, have fun and talk in Spanish. I took an individual intensive for three days, and then, moving in buses during daylight hours, I repeated the material, practiced talking with neighbors and could not get away from high-profile films.

If you are traveling alone, learning a new language is much easier because you have no other options to speak it.

When I met my compatriots several times in two months of travel, I experienced a linguistic orgasm: it's so cool when you understand absolutely everything that is said to you and can answer.

Communication

Great idea - . It is not necessary to live with the host, you can just talk about the city with one of the locals or take a walk together in interesting places.

I traveled alone, so I used hostels: there is always a company of interesting people there, and it’s safe.

Latin Americans are friendly people who will always show the way, warn of dangers, and if they have time, they will chat.

Having moved from Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia to countries where ethnic composition diluted with immigrants from Europe, you will feel that you have ceased to be stared at and from a moving attraction you have become just a traveler. And everyone is still happy to talk to you, but the conversations become more relaxed and highly intelligent.

It’s better not to distribute your personal data and contacts right and left if you don’t want to one day get a crowd of sudden guests at home.

Precautionary measures

1. Under no circumstances would I advise you to visit Venezuela: it is very dangerous there.
2. Be careful in the dark. The company of the same male travelers, taken, for example, from a hostel or language school, - good idea for evening walks.
3. Get ready for what hot water- it's a luxury. And whoever got up first got slippers - it doesn’t matter if you are staying at a hotel or a hostel.
4. Be careful with ATMs: they can scan your credit card and try to steal money from it. Theft insurance at your bank is not a bad idea.
5. Be mentally and informationally prepared to block bank cards. Have a spare card handy, bank support number, some cash in dollars.
6. Let there always be water in the backpack and some small (at least cookies) just in case.
7. In poor countries, carry toilet paper with you.
8. Always specify what time it is in the city where you arrived: there may be a difference in time zones. Once my own carelessness cost me $100 (the price of a ticket for a missed bus).
9. Be careful with pies and freshly squeezed juice bags at the beautiful grandmothers in ponchos and felt hats. It's tasty, but fraught, even if everyone else calmly absorbs it. They are used to this kind of food.
10. Listen to your body's reactions to unusual climate, food, and elevation changes. Take care of your health, do not overwork. For example, all the time I was at a height (and Latin America is the Cordillera, the solid Andes and altitude records in the Guinness Book of Records) punched for sweets, although I don’t like desserts, and I had to feed myself with carbohydrates. In Bolivia, my eyes were slightly reddened.
11. Ecuadorian and Peruvian jungles, which are called "selva", - perfect place for various extreme adventures. But go there in the company of trusted people, see the reviews.
12. If you have managed to participate in a volunteer program, be prepared for the fact that, most likely, there will be no Internet and electricity there at all or there will be little, and living conditions will turn out to be worse than declared.
13. If, say, your laptop crashes in Ecuador, do not throw it away: in Peru, it will probably feel better.

Features of different countries

Cuba is good in itself and in order to acclimatize, get used to a different way of life, start absorbing the Spanish language.

You can always get cheaper from the Havana airport by finding a company of the same passengers. They, most likely, also go somewhere in the area of ​​Old Havana.

In Cuba, be prepared for the fact that people are very sociable and it is almost impossible to be with yourself there. But any problem of an introvert - new opportunity. For example, to find out what Cubans think about the USSR, their revolution, education, visit, dance salsa on the Malecon and experience life as cheerful and temperamental Cubans feel it. They are very open people- before they offer their hand and heart and immediately discuss their move to you.

Cubans are not spoiled by the blessings of civilization, so it's easy to please them by giving them washing powder, shampoo, a USB flash drive, or simply paying with dollars.

For tourists, Cuba is an expensive country with a special currency, kuk. But, having become your own, you will understand how incredibly cheap you can live on local pesos.

In Havana, you can live in a hotel, and even better - in a casa particular (hotel at home). Even if you have not found a place to stay in advance, walking the streets in search of a casa particular badge is sure to bring results.

There are excellent beaches near Havana. A bus or taxi in the form of a rare car will take you there in 20 minutes.

In total, I spent seven days in Havana, and I was not bored. Also in Cuba you can see other cities and beaches. To do this, there is public transport (which will be late), taxi, car rental.

Compared to slow-paced, cocktail-dancing Havana, Ecuador's capital, Quito, seems like a hyperactive baby in a mountain cradle. There is a beautiful Old Town, mountains around and a lot of different interesting places, which can be easily reached in an hour or two by bus. Very cheap and varied in every sense.

In budget Ecuador, the most expensive place- This Galapagos Islands but they are worth it. Planes fly from Quito or coastal Guayaquil. Near the coast a lot beach resorts for every taste.

Ecuadorian Switzerland - the town of Banos with thermal springs, volcanoes, jungles, waterfalls, lots of spas and extreme adventures.

Mancora near the Ecuadorian border is a party beach. In general, the entire Peruvian coast is perfect for surfing. It is believed that here the longest waves.

Near Trujillo there are many interesting prehistoric ruins and open-air monuments.

In Lima, according to my feelings, fog is being produced. There are inexpensive vintage hotels in the center of the Old Town and a wonderful modern district Miraflores. Start tasting the Pisco Sour in the capital of Peru.

Cusco is very ancient and beautiful city from which transport to Machu Picchu, Titicaca starts. Machu Picchu is the country's most expensive tourist attraction and a must see! Lake Titicaca is interesting for getting to know the way of life and just very beautiful.

Arequipa is the third largest city in Peru and has a stunning old center. From here or from Ica, head to the Colca Canyon.

Try coca leaf tea, it tones up, helps to adapt to the highlands. Ceviche is a slice of fresh raw fish and seafood with lemon-pepper sauce, super! Peruvians also eat guinea pigs and llamas.

It seemed to me that the Chileans (Chilenos) are very close to us in terms of mentality.

National parks here are a separate sight with deserts, geysers (San Pedro de Atacama), volcanoes, glaciers, fur seals, penguins, and pristine lakes (Patagonia).

I beg you, visit Valparaiso - this is a multi-colored city a two-hour drive from the capital Santiago. I fell in love with him at first sight. Nearby there are several more authentic ones on the coast.

Don't miss out on the fishermen's markets, where they make great simple meals from fresh catch, topped off with a steamed glass of dry chile.

Punta Arenas is located on the Strait of Magellan. From it or the Argentinean Ushuaia, you can equip yourself with Antarctica.

When you are in Argentina, eat burgers too, even New York ones are little brothers in comparison. And Argentine wine, in my opinion, was invented just for their meat: there are a lot of tannins, but the astringency is very suitable for dishes.

On occasion, visit the Valdes Peninsula, listen to the whales. Visit the wineries of Mendoza.

Gaze at such a spacious, with good winds, tango and architecture brought from everywhere, Buenos Aires. Be sure to get to the Iguazu Falls, they are not in vain considered a wonder of the world.

Bolivia

Having weighed all the pros and cons, go to Bolivia, even if the arguments against outweigh. You won't see anything like it anywhere else in the world.

Ignore the fact that there is no asphalt, buses are several hours late and they can carry pets. Look out the window at fantastic landscapes that change every five minutes and memorize.

After all the troubles in Bolivia, the tourist Uyuni next to salt desert and La Paz will be a luxurious reward for ridiculous money. There you can eat and relax in a human way. And then perform the feat again, riding a bike along the road of death, or climb into an abandoned mine.

Or you can just walk around big city on some weekend with an indispensable holiday in honor of a Catholic saint, elegant Bolivians and folk music.

aftertaste

When you return home, you will remember the trip with pleasure and not believe that this happened to you. However, some of my acquaintances were so imbued with South America that they stayed there to live happily ever after.

Traveling to new places is a great opportunity to broaden your horizons, get great experiences, meet great people, stock up on exciting stories and have a great time. Good luck! Bon suerte!

Territory, borders, position.

Latin America is the region of the Western Hemisphere located between the United States and Antarctica. It includes Mexico, the countries of Central and South America and the island states of the Caribbean (or West Indies). Most of the population of Latin America speaks Spanish and Portuguese (Brazil) languages ​​belonging to the group of Romanesque or Latin languages. Hence the name of the region - Latin America.

All Latin American countries are former colonies of European countries (mainly Spain and Portugal).

The area of ​​the region is 21 million square meters. km, population - 500 million people.

All Latin American countries, with the exception of Bolivia and Paraguay, either have access to the oceans and seas (Atlantic and Pacific Oceans), or are islands. The EGP of Latin America is also determined by the fact that it is relatively close to the United States, but far from the rest major regions.

Political map of the region.

Within Latin America there are 33 sovereign states and several dependent territories. All independent countries, either republics or states within the British-led Commonwealth (Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Grenada, Dominica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago , Jamaica). Unitary states predominate. The exception is Brazil, Venezuela, Mexico, Argentina, which have a federal form of administrative-territorial structure.

Note:

Form of government (state system): KM - constitutional monarchy;

Form of territorial structure: U - unitary state; F - federation;

The countries of the region are very diverse in area. They can be roughly divided into 4 groups:

very large (Brazil);

large and medium (Mexico and most countries in South America);

relatively small (countries Central America and Cuba);

very small (the islands of the West Indies).

All Latin American countries are developing countries. In terms of the pace and level of economic development achieved, they occupy an intermediate position in the developing world - they surpass the developing countries of Africa in this respect and are inferior to the countries of Asia. Argentina, Brazil and Mexico, which are among the key countries of the developing world, have achieved the greatest success in economic development. They account for 2/3 of industrial production in Latin America and the same amount of regional GDP. The most developed countries in the region also include Chile, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru. Haiti is a subset of the least developed countries.

Within their region, Latin American countries have created several economic integration groupings, the largest of which is the South American Common Market of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay (MERCOSUR), concentrating 45% of the population, 50% of total GDP and 33% of Latin America's foreign trade.

Population of Latin America

Exceptionally difficult ethnic sos population of Latin America. It was formed under the influence of three components:

1. Indian tribes and peoples who inhabited the territory before the arrival of the colonists (Aztecs and Mayans in Mexico, Incas in the Central Andes, etc.). Indigenous Indian population today is about 15%.

2. European settlers, primarily from Spain and Portugal (Creoles). Whites in the region currently make up about 25%.

3. Africans are slaves. To date, blacks in Latin America, about 10%.

About half of the population of Latin America are descendants of mixed marriages: mestizos, mulattoes. Therefore, almost all Latin American nations have a complex ethnic background. In Mexico and the countries of Central America, mestizos are predominant, in Haiti, Jamaica, the Lesser Antilles - blacks, in most of the Andean countries Indians or mestizos predominate, in Uruguay, Chile and Costa Rica - Hispanic Creoles, in Brazil half of the "whites", and half are blacks and mulattoes.

The colonization of America had a significant impact on the formation religious composition region. The vast majority of Hispanics profess Catholicism, which has long been implanted as the only official religion.

Three main features characterize the distribution of the population of Latin America:

1. Latin America is one of the least populated regions in the world. The average population density is only 25 people per 1 sq. km. km.

2. The uneven distribution of the population is much more pronounced than in other regions. Along with densely populated areas (the island states of the Caribbean, the Atlantic coast of Brazil, most metropolitan areas, etc.), vast expanses are almost deserted.

3. In no other region of the world has the population mastered the plateau to such an extent and does not rise so high into the mountains.

By indicators urbanization Latin America resembles economically developed rather than developing countries, although in Lately her pace slowed down. Most (76%) of the population is concentrated in cities. At the same time, there is an increasing concentration of the population in large cities, the number of which has exceeded 200, and in cities with “millionaires” (there are about 40 of them). A special Latin American type of city has developed here, bearing some signs of European cities (the presence of a central square on which the town hall, cathedral, and administrative buildings are located). Streets usually diverge from the square at right angles, forming a "chess grid". In recent decades, modern buildings have been superimposed on such a grid.

In recent decades, there has been an active process of formation in Latin America urban agglomerations. Four of them are among the largest in the world: Greater Mexico City (1/5 of the country's population), Greater Buenos Aires (1/3 of the country's population), Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro.

Latin America is also characterized by "false urbanization". In slum areas ("poverty belts") sometimes live up to 50% of the city's population.

Natural resource potential of Latin America.

The natural resources of the region are rich and varied, favorable for both agriculture and industrial development.

Latin America is rich in minerals: it accounts for about 18% of oil reserves, 30% of ferrous and alloying metals, 25% of non-ferrous metals, 55% of rare and trace elements.

Geography of distribution of mineral resources of Latin America

The richness and diversity of the mineral resources of Latin America can be explained by the peculiarities of the geological structure of the territory. Deposits of ores of ferrous, nonferrous and rare metals are associated with the crystalline basement of the South American Platform and the folded belt of the Cordillera and Andes. Fields of oil and natural gas are associated with marginal and intermountain troughs.

In terms of water resources, Latin America ranks first among the major regions of the world. The Amazon, Orinoco, Parana rivers are among the largest in the world.

The great wealth of Latin America is its forests, which occupy more than 1/2 of the territory of this region.

The natural conditions of Latin America are generally favorable for the development of agriculture. Most its territory is occupied by lowlands (La Platskaya, Amazonian and Orinokskaya) and plateaus (Guiana, Brazilian, Patagonian plateau), convenient for agricultural use. Due to its geographical position (almost the entire territory of the region is located in tropical and subtropical latitudes), Latin America receives a large amount of heat and sunlight. Areas with a sharp lack of moisture occupy a relatively small area (the south of Argentina, northern Chile, the Pacific coast of Peru, the northern regions of the Mexican Highlands), the predominant red-brown, black earth, black and brown soils, combined with an abundance of heat and moisture, can produce high yields of many valuable tropical and subtropical crops.

Vast areas of savannas and subtropical steppes (Argentina, Uruguay) can be used for pastures. The main difficulties for agricultural activity are created by significant forest cover and waterlogging of lowland areas (especially the Amazonian lowland).

General characteristics of the economy of Latin America.

Yielding to Asia and Africa in terms of territory and population, Latin America is ahead in terms of the level of industrialization of production. In contrast to these regions of the world, the leading role in the economy here has recently shifted to the manufacturing industry. Both the basic branches of the manufacturing industry (ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, oil refining) and the avant-garde industries (electronics, electrical engineering, automotive, shipbuilding, aircraft building, machine tool building) are developing here.

However, the mining industry continues to play a prominent role in the economy. In the structure of the cost of production, 80% falls on fuel (mainly oil and gas) and about 20% on mining raw materials.

Latin America is one of the oldest oil and gas producing regions in the world. Mexico, Venezuela and Ecuador stand out in terms of production and export of oil and natural gas.

Latin America is a prominent world producer and exporter of non-ferrous metal ores: bauxite (Brazil Jamaica, Suriname, Guyana stand out), copper (Chile, Peru, Mexico), lead-zinc (Peru, Mexico), tin (Bolivia) and mercury (Mexico) ores

Latin American countries are also of great importance in the world mining and export of iron and manganese (Brazil, Venezuela), uranium (Brazil, Argentina) ores, native sulfur (Mexico), potash and sodium nitrate (Chile).

The main manufacturing industries - mechanical engineering and the chemical industry - are essentially developed in three countries - Brazil, Mexico and Argentina. The Big Three account for 4/5 of the manufacturing industry. Most of the rest of the countries do not have mechanical engineering and chemical industries.

Engineering specialization - automotive, shipbuilding, aircraft building, production of electrical household appliances and machines (sewing and washing, refrigerators, air conditioners), etc. The main areas of the chemical industry are petrochemistry, pharmaceutical and perfume industries.

The oil refining industry is represented by its enterprises in all oil-producing countries (Mexico, Venezuela, Ecuador, etc.). The world's largest (in terms of capacity) oil refineries have been created on the islands of the Caribbean Sea (Virginia, Bahamas, Curacao, Trinidad, Aruba, etc.).

Non-ferrous and ferrous metallurgy is developing in close contact with the mining industry. Copper smelting enterprises are located in Mexico, Peru, Chile, lead and zinc - in Mexico and Peru, tin - in Bolivia, aluminum - in Brazil, steel - in Brazil, Venezuela, Mexico and Argentina.

The role of the textile and food industries is great. The leading branches of the textile industry are the production of cotton (Brazil), woolen (Argentina and Uruguay) and synthetic (Mexico) fabrics, food - sugar, canning, meat-packing, fish processing. The largest producer of cane sugar in the region and in the world is Brazil.

Agriculture The region is represented by two completely different sectors:

The first sector is a highly commercial, predominantly plantation economy, which in many countries has acquired the character of a monoculture: (bananas - Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras, Panama; sugar - Cuba, etc.).

The second sector is consumer small-scale agriculture, not at all affected by the "green revolution"

The leading branch of agriculture in Latin America is crop production. The exceptions are Argentina and Uruguay, where the main industry is animal husbandry. At present, Latin American crop production is characterized by monoculture (3/4 of the value of all production falls on 10 products).

The leading role is played by cereals, which are widely used in subtropical countries (Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Mexico). The main crops of Latin America are wheat, rice, and corn. The largest producer and exporter of wheat and corn in the region is Argentina.

The main producers and exporters of cotton are Brazil, Paraguay, Mexico, sugarcane - Brazil, Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica, coffee - Brazil and Colombia, cocoa beans - Brazil, Ecuador, Dominican Republic.

The leading branches of animal husbandry are cattle breeding (mainly for meat), sheep breeding (for wool and meat and wool), and pig breeding. In terms of the size of the livestock of cattle and sheep, Argentina and Uruguay stand out, pigs - Brazil and Mexico.

In the mountainous regions of Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador, llamas are bred. global importance has a fishery (Chile and Peru stand out).

Transport.

Latin America accounts for 10% of the world's railway network, 7% of roads, 33% of inland waterways, 4% of air passenger traffic, and 8% of the world's merchant fleet tonnage.

The decisive role in domestic transportation belongs to motor transport, which began to develop actively only from the 60s of the 20th century. The most important highways are the Pan-American and Trans-Amazon Highways.

The share of railway transport, despite the large length of railways, is declining. The technical equipment of this type of transport remains low. Many old railway lines are closed.

Water transport is most developed in Argentina, Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, and Uruguay.

Maritime transport dominates in external transportation. 2/5 of maritime traffic falls on Brazil.

Recently, as a result of the development of the oil refining industry, pipeline transport has been rapidly developing in the region.

The territorial structure of the economy of Latin American countries largely retains colonial features. The "economic capital" (usually a seaport) usually forms the main focus of the entire territory. Many areas with a specialization in the extraction of minerals and fuels, or plantations are located inland. The railway network, which has a tree structure, connects these areas with a "growth point" (seaport). The rest of the territory remains underdeveloped.

Many countries in the region are implementing regional policies aimed at mitigating territorial disparities. For example, in Mexico there is a shift of productive forces to the north to the US border, in Venezuela - to the east, to the rich resource region of Guayana, in Brazil - to the West, to the Amazon, in Argentina - to the south, to Patagonia.

Sub-regions of Latin America

Latin America is divided into several sub-regions:

1. Middle America includes Mexico, Central America and the West Indies. The countries of this region have great differences in economic terms. On the one hand, Mexico, whose economy is based on the extraction and processing of oil, and on the other, the countries of Central America and the West Indies, known for the development of the plantation economy.

2. Andean countries (Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile). For these countries, the extractive industry is of particular importance. In agricultural production, this region is characterized by the cultivation of coffee, sugarcane and cotton.

3. Countries of the La Plata Basin (Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina). This region is characterized by internal differences in the economic development of countries. Argentina is the most developed country with a developed manufacturing industry, while Uruguay and especially Paraguay lag behind in development and are characterized by the agrarian direction of the economy.

4. Countries such as Guiana, Suriname, Guyana . The basis of the economy of Guyana and Suriname is the bauxite mining industry and the production of alumina. Agriculture does not meet the needs of these countries. The main crops are rice, bananas, sugarcane, citrus fruits. Guiana is an economically backward agricultural country. Its economy is based on agriculture and the meat processing industry. The main crop is sugarcane. Fishing is developed (fishing for shrimp).

5. Brazil is a separate sub-region of Latin America. This is one of the largest countries in the world in size. It ranks fifth in terms of population (155 million people). Brazil is one of the key countries in the developing world, its leader. The country has large reserves of minerals (50 types of mineral raw materials), forest and agro-climatic resources.

In the industry of Brazil, a significant role belongs to mechanical engineering, petrochemistry, ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy. The country stands out for its large-scale production of automobiles, aircraft, ships, mini and microcomputers, fertilizers, synthetic fibers, rubber, plastics, explosives, cotton fabrics, footwear, etc.

Important positions in industry are occupied by foreign capital, which controls most of the country's production.

Brazil's main trading partners are the US, Japan, UK, Switzerland and Argentina.

Brazil is a country with a pronounced oceanic type of economic location (90% of its population and production are located in a band of 300-500 km on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean).

Brazil occupies a leading position in the production of agricultural products. The main branch of agriculture is crop production, which has an export orientation. More than 30% of the cultivated area is devoted to five main crops: coffee, cocoa beans, cotton, sugarcane, soybeans. Corn, rice, wheat are grown from grain crops, which are used to meet the country's domestic needs (in addition, up to 60% of wheat is imported).

Livestock has a predominantly meat profile (Brazil accounts for 10% of the world beef trade).

Latins

A collective term for countries that speak Romance languages ​​(Portuguese and Spanish) derived from Latin, hence the name. Latin America is often associated with Catholicism, Roman legal and cultural traditions. Latin America is often referred to in the West as Latin Europe, just as there is German Europe or Slavic Europe. The countries of South America began to be called Latin America in the 19th century, when a very strong influence of Roman Catholicism was discovered here, in this region the contribution of European Romance countries was most visible in terms of culture, language, religion, and also at the genetic level. The majority of Hispanics are of Latin European ancestry, specifically from Italy, Spain, France, and Portugal. North America, in contrast, is called Anglo-Saxon America, however, the Americans themselves and the inhabitants of Latin America call Americans nothing more than simply Americans, Canada is simply Canada, and the inhabitants are Canadians.

Population of Latin America

Today, the population of Latin America is estimated at more than 610 million people.

ethnic groups

Latin America is the most diverse region in the world in terms of the presence of ethnic groups and races, the ethnic composition varies from country to country, the majority of the population of Latin America are mestizos, descendants of marriages between Europeans and local Indians. In most countries, the Indian population predominates, in some countries it is white, there are countries where the majority of the population is black or mulatto. Nevertheless, about 80% of the population of Latin America have European roots.

Latin American countries

In addition to the Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries of mainland America, the list of Latin American countries also includes the countries of the Caribbean region: Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Cuba. Often, the countries in Latin America are also included in the countries in which they speak French, the former and current colonies of France are French Guiana, Saint-Martin, Haiti, with the exception of Quebec, which is located on Canadian territory.

Many countries in Latin America belong to North America, so do not confuse the concepts of South America and Latin. North America includes Mexico, most countries in Central and South America, the Caribbean, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.

Countries in which the majority of the population speaks English traditionally do not include Latin America - these are Guyana, Belize, Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica and others.

Latin America is picturesque and bizarre, despite its unfavorable climatic conditions for a white person, it is a popular tourist place, here is the world's highest Angel Falls, the largest mountain lake Titicaca and the largest functioning volcano Cotopaxi, the longest Andes mountain system on Earth, the greatest Amazon river. There are many natural resources here, many countries live off the sale of oil and gas.

Languages ​​in Latin America

Most Latin American countries are Spanish-speaking, with Portuguese being spoken by the largest country in the region, Brazil. In Suriname they speak Dutch, French in Guyana, English in Guyana, Belize, Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica.

60% of the Latin American population speaks Spanish as their first language, 34% Portuguese, 6% of the population speak other languages ​​such as Quechua, Maya, Guarani, Aymara, Nahuatl, English, French, Dutch and Italian. Portuguese is only spoken in Brazil (Brazilian Portuguese), the largest and most populous country in the region. Spanish is the official language of most other Latin American countries, as well as Cuba, Puerto Rico (where it is equal to English), and the Dominican Republic. French is spoken in Haiti and in the French overseas departments of Guadeloupe, Martinique, Guiana, the French overseas community of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, and French is also spoken in Panama. Dutch is official language in Suriname, Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles. Dutch is related to Germanic, so these territories are not necessarily considered part of Latin America.

Indian languages: Quechua, Guarani, Aymara, Nahuatl, Maya lenguas, Mapudungun are widely spoken in Peru, Guatemala, Bolivia, Paraguay and Mexico, to a lesser extent in Panama, Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina and Chile. In the Latin American countries not named above, the population of speakers of indigenous languages ​​tends to be small or non-existent, such as in Uruguay. Mexico is the only country, which boasts a wider variety of indigenous languages ​​than any other Latin American country, the most widely spoken Amerindian language in Mexico is Nahuatl.

In Peru, the Quechua language is the official language, along with Spanish and any other language of other indigenous peoples of the country where they predominate. There is no official language in Ecuador and Quechua is a recognized indigenous language under the country's Constitution, but Quechua is spoken by only a few groups in the highlands. In Bolivia, Aymara, Quechua and Guarani have official status along with Spanish. Guarani, along with Spanish, is the official language of Paraguay, where the majority of the population is bilingual, in the Argentine province of Corrientes, only Spanish is official. In Nicaragua, Spanish is the official language, but on the country's Caribbean coast the official languages ​​are English and indigenous languages ​​such as Miskito, Sumo and Rama.

Colombia recognizes all the indigenous languages ​​spoken by the locals, however, only 1% of the country's population are native speakers of these languages. Nahuatl is one of 62 indigenous native languages ​​in Mexico that are officially recognized by the government as " national languages' along with Spanish.

Other European languages ​​spoken in Latin America are English, spoken by some groups in Puerto Rico and also in neighboring countries, which are not considered Latin America, are Belize and Guyana.

German is common in southern Brazil, southern Chile, parts of Argentina, Venezuela and Paraguay.

Italian is spoken in Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela and Uruguay.

Ukrainian and Polish in southern Brazil, southern Argentina.

Yiddish and Hebrew are common in the vicinity of Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo.

Japanese is spoken in Brazil and Peru, Korean in Brazil, Arabic in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela, and Chinese throughout South America.

IN Caribbean region, Creole is common, including Haitian Creole, which is the predominant language of Haiti, this is primarily due to the mixing of French with West African languages, Amerindian, with influences from English, Portuguese and Spanish.

The Garifuna language is spoken along the Caribbean coast in Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Belize.

Latin American countries

The largest country in Latin America by area is Brazil with an area of ​​8515767 square kilometers, followed by Argentina 2780400, Mexico 1972550, Peru 1285216, Colombia 1141748, the largest small region- This is a French overseas territory of Saint-Martin with an area of ​​​​25 square kilometers.

If you look at the population, then again the largest state is Brazil 201032714 people, then Mexico 118395054, Colombia 47387109 and only in fourth place is Argentina 41660417.

Cities in Latin America

The largest city in Latin America is the Mexican capital of Mexico City 20631353 people, then Sao Paulo Brazil 19953698, Buenos Aires Argentina 13333912, Rio de Janeiro Brazil 11968886, Lima Peru 10231678, Bogotá Colombia 8868395, Santiago Chile 7023767, Belo Horizonte Brazil 5504729, Caracas Venezuela 5297026, Guadalajara Mexico 4593444.

Latin America's richest city Buenos Aires with a GDP per capita of $26,129 followed by Caracas 24,000, Sao Paulo 23,704, Santiago 21,393, Mexico City 19,940, Lima 17,340, Belo Horizonte 17,239, Guadalajara 16,855, Rio de Janeiro 16282, Bogotá 15891.

Religion in Latin America

90% of Hispanics are Christians, 70% of the Hispanic population identify themselves as Latin Rite Catholics. As we have noticed, Latin America is dominated by Catholicism, in contrast to Protestant North America with the USA and Canada.

Hispanics and migration

For example, about 10 million Mexicans live in the USA today, 29 million Americans today can boast of Mexican roots. 3.33 million Colombians today live outside their homeland, 2 million natives of this country live outside of Brazil. One and a half million Salvadorans live in the United States and as many more de Dominicans, 1.3 million Cubans.

0.8 million Chileans live in Argentina, United States, Canada, Sweden and Australia.

Education, schools and literacy in Latin America

In Latin America today there is a big problem with access to education, however, in recent years the situation has improved, most children already go to school. Do not have access to education children who live in remote regions as well as children of black families who may live in extreme poverty. Only 75% of the poorest youth aged 13 to 17 attend school. Currently, more than half of children in low-income or rural areas cannot complete nine years of secondary school.

Crime and violence in Latin America

Latin America is synonymous with the word crime. Latin America and the Caribbean is the most dangerous region in terms of crime modern world, it is in Latin America that the most dangerous cities in the world are located, which can be justified by the highest level of social inequality in the incomes of the population. The crime problem will not be solved until the social gap between the rich and the poor is bridged. Therefore, the prevention of crime, the increase in the number of police and prisons will lead to nothing. The murder rate in Latin America is the highest in the world. From the early 1980s to the mid-1990s, the homicide rate increased by 50 percent. The main victims of such killings are young people, 69% of whom are between the ages of 15 and 19.

The most dangerous countries in Latin America

Samimi dangerous countries in Latin America are: Honduras 91.6 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, El Salvador 69.2, Venezuela 45.1, Belize 41.4, Guatemala 38.5, Puerto Rico 26.2, Dominican Republic 25, Mexico 23.7 and Ecuador 18.2 .

For example, the global average is 6.9. In 1995, Colombia and El Salvador broke the world record in terms of crime - 139.1 murders per 100,000 inhabitants. Crime and violence in Latin America is a major health threat and claims more lives than AIDS or other infectious diseases.

Economy of Latin America

nominal GDP of US$5,573,397 million. Human Development Index (HDI) in Latin America

All Latin American countries are countries with developing economies. If we evaluate the countries of the region according to the Human Development Index (HDI), then the leader here is Chile with a coefficient of 0.819, then Argentina 0.811, Uruguay 0.792, Panama 0.780, Mexico 0.775, Costa Rica 0.773, Peru 0.741, Colombia 0.719, Dominican Republic 0.702, Bolivia 0.675, Paraguay 0.669, Guatemala 0.628, Honduras 0.617, Nicaragua 0.599, Haiti is the underdog at 0.456.

Poverty in Latin America

The richest and poorest countries in Latin America

If we evaluate countries by poverty level, then people in Uruguay feel best of all, where only 3% of the population is below the poverty line, followed by Chile with a coefficient of 3.2, Argentina 3.7, Costa Rica 3.7, Cuba 4.6, Mexico 5.9, Venezuela 6.6, Panama 6.7, Colombia 7.6, Ecuador 7.9, Brazil 8.6, Haiti 31.5 worst. For example, 54.9% of the population lives on less than $1.25 a day in Haiti, 16.9% in Guatemala, 15.8% in Nicaragua, 23.3% in Honduras, and 15.1% in El Salvador.

Malnutrition affects up to 47% of Haitians, 27% of Nicaraguans, 23% of Bolivians and 22% of Honduras.

Life expectancy in Latin America

The level of life expectancy is one of the most important indicators of the quality of life. So from this point of view, it is best to live in Cuba, in Costa Rica and Chile, where the figure is 79 years. Mexico and Uruguay have 77, Panama, Ecuador and Argentina have 76, while Haiti is the lowest at 62.

The best countries in Latin or South America to live in

So, Chile and Uruguay share the palm, Chile has the highest human development index, GDP, life expectancy and the lowest crime rate for this region. Uruguay boasts the lowest income inequality score, the lowest poverty rate, the lowest extreme poverty rate, and the highest peacefulness score.

Panama has the highest level of real GDP growth. Cuba boasts success in education, it has the lowest illiteracy rate local population, as well as in Cuba, people live very long, Costa Rica also boasts a relatively high life expectancy for its citizens.

Haiti has the worst performance, it's scary to live in this country. However, surprisingly, Haiti has a very low crime rate, despite the extreme poverty of the population, the murder rate of only 6.9 per 100,000 people per year is about the same crime rate in prosperous Uruguay. But it is already very dangerous in Honduras, El Salvador, Venezuela, Guatemala, Colombia, Mexico.

The best country to live in Latin America

The popular countries of Argentina and Brazil show average figures for the entire Latin American region. So, from our point of view, the best country to live in is Chile and Uruguay, followed by Argentina, Costa Rica, Mexico, Venezuela, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador and Brazil. Accident data in Cuba may be skewed.

Ecology in Latin America

The highest ecology in Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador. The lowest in Haiti, Mexico, Peru, Guatemala, Chile and Argentina.

Tourism in Latin America

Among the countries of Latin America, Mexico is doing well in terms of international lockdown, this is due to its close geographical location to the United States and a large number archaeological sites, it is worth mentioning such a resort as Cancun.

Mexico is visited by 22.3 million foreign tourists annually, the next pursuer is very far behind, this is Argentina with a figure of 5.2 million, followed by Brazil 5.1, Puerto Rico with 3.6, Chile with 2.7, Colombia 2.38 , Dominican Republic 4.1, Panama 2.06.

Most visited cities and attractions in Latin America

Most visited cities and attractions in Latin America: Cancun, Galapagos, Machu Picchu, Chichen Itza, Cartagena, Cabo San Lucas, Acapulco, Rio de Janeiro, El Salvador, Margarita Island, Sao Paulo, Salar de Uyuni , Punta del Este, Santo Domingo, Labadee, San Juan, Havana, Panama City, Iguazu Falls, Puerto Vallarta, Poas Volcano National Park, Punta Cana, Viña del Mar, Mexico City, Quito, Bogotá , Santa Marta, San Andres, Buenos Aires, Lima, Maceio, Florianopolis, Cusco, Ponce and Patagonia.

If we talk about the effectiveness of tourism in Latin America, then the leader here is the Dominican Republic, where the largest receipts from the tourism sector from the country's GDP, but per capita tourism receipts are the highest in Uruguay. Very high receipts from tourism in Venezuela, but this is also due to the cosmic local prices. A trip to Brazil, Panama, the Dominican Republic is considered very expensive.

The most unattractive countries for tourism in Latin America are: Haiti, Paraguay, Venezuela, El Salvador - you can skip such countries on your trip to South America.