Sure, hiking the famed Inca trail to Macchu Picchu, biking along La Paz's 'Death Road' and taking in the stunning, stark beauty of the Salar de Uyuni salt flats are all major highlights on a trip to South America.
But beyond the big name, once-in-a-lifetime activities, there are tons more of awesome adventures to be found - check out eight of our favourite lesser-known experiences to be had in this incredible, diverse continent that will totally blow your mind.
Get spaced out by Moon Valley, La Paz
The towering spires of Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) in La Paz give this spot an eerie, lunar terrain that you might be forgiven for mistaking for a sci-fi movie set. Walk amongst the rock formations eroded by heavy rain and high winds, and we totally won't judge if it unleashes your inner film star...
Get away from it all like a local at Tigre
For a real 'local' experience whilst visiting Buenos Aires, take a short trip north to the town of Tigre. The town and its surrounding delta area serves as a getaway for all kinds, from Buenos Aires getaway-seekers to Madonna. You'll find the “Puerto de Frutos” craft fair, riverside restaurants, a naval museum and even an amusement park, so there's plenty to keep you entertained!
See Condors soar at Colca Canyon
Twice as deep as the US' Grand Canyon, and just as epic! Just northwest of the city of Arequipa in Peru, the canyon is a popualar spot to see local wildlife up close - the Andean Condors that frequent the area often fly close to the canyon. If you're not impressed by birds, you'll certainly be impressed by the views as discover this incredible site.
Explore Lake Tititicaca's traditions by reed boat
Named as the world's highest navigable lake, Titicaca Hop aboard a traditional reed boat to see the famous floating reed islands in the Bay of Puno for a taste of how the indiginous Uros lived. On Taquile Island, get to know the locals and experience the way they live in simple huts, and visit colourful markets in the city of Puno.
Snorkel at Rio da Prata
Take a dive into the waters of Rio da Prata, an aquatic playground teeming with colourful and vibrant fish life. Above the water, make your way through lush rainforests as you make your way past stunning waterfalls.
Sleep under the stars in the Atacama Desert
An oasis in the Atacama Desert, Huacachina is surrounded by formidable sculpted sand dunes, and creates a campout experience like no other. Spend your day sandboarding amongst the dunes and riding a dune buggy, then lay back and gaze up at the starry sky as you set your head down for the night.
Go rafting in Salta
Although many visit Salta for it's stunning colonial architecture, those in search of adventure will also find plenty in store. Lovers of adrenaline will love the white water rafting opportunities on Juramento River, with plenty of level 3 rapids making it suitable for the inexperienced but still thrilling for all abilities.
Fly over the Nazca lines
Hundreds of lines and shapes dominate the floor of Peru's Nazca Desert - and no one is sure where they came from. Archaeologists, historians, and mathematicians have all tried to work out their purpose, but to no avail. Eerie much? The lines and shapes are best viewed from above, so a helicopter ride is the perfect way to experience them in all their mysterious glory.
Rio de Prata image: Marcos Dias, all other images: Shutterstock
