South America is a continent that is steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a region that has become increasingly popular among digital nomads who are looking for a change of scenery and a chance to experience new cultures. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, learning new languages, or immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife of cities like Buenos Aires, South America has something to offer everyone. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top cultural experiences to have as a digital nomad in South America.
1. Visit Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic landmarks in South America. This ancient Incan city is located in the Andes Mountains of Peru and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a digital nomad, you can take a break from work and hike to the top of Machu Picchu. The view from the top is breathtaking, and you will feel a sense of awe and wonder as you explore this ancient site.
Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century and is believed to have been a royal estate or sacred religious site for the Inca people. The city was abandoned during the Spanish conquest in the 16th century and was rediscovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham. Today, Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America, attracting millions of visitors each year.
There are several ways to get to Machu Picchu, but the most popular route is the Inca Trail. This trek takes four days and three nights and covers a distance of 26 miles. Along the way, you will pass through stunning mountain landscapes, ancient ruins, and traditional Andean villages. The Inca Trail is a challenging hike, but the reward of reaching Machu Picchu is well worth the effort.
If you are not up for the Inca Trail, there are other ways to get to Machu Picchu. You can take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the mountain, and then take a bus or hike to the top. You can also hire a guide to take you on a day trip from Cusco.
2. Tango in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina and is known for its vibrant nightlife and tango culture. As a digital nomad, you can take tango classes and learn the art of this sensual dance. You can also attend a tango show and watch the professionals perform. The music, the dance, and the atmosphere of Buenos Aires will leave you feeling energized and inspired.
Tango is a dance that originated in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires in the late 19th century. It is a passionate and intimate dance that is characterized by its close embrace and intricate footwork. Tango became popular in Europe in the early 20th century and has since spread around the world.
There are many places in Buenos Aires where you can take tango classes, from beginner to advanced levels. Some of the most popular schools include La Viruta, Tango Brujo, and DNI Tango. You can also attend a tango show in one of the city’s many theaters or restaurants. Some of the most famous shows include Tango Porteño, El Querandí, and Café de los Angelitos.
In addition to tango, Buenos Aires is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a wide variety of bars, clubs, and music venues, ranging from trendy rooftop bars to underground techno clubs. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include Palermo, San Telmo, and Recoleta.
3. Explore the Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. As a digital nomad, you can take a break from work and explore this stunning natural wonder. You can go on a guided tour and see exotic animals, swim in the Amazon River, and learn about the indigenous cultures that call the rainforest home.
The Amazon Rainforest covers an area of over 2.7 million square miles and spans nine countries in South America, including Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. It is home to millions of species of plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. The rainforest is also home to many indigenous communities, who have lived in harmony with the forest for thousands of years.
There are many ways to explore the Amazon Rainforest, from eco-lodges to river cruises. Some of the most popular destinations include the Amazon River in Brazil, the Tambopata National Reserve in Peru, and the Yasuni National Park in Ecuador. During your visit, you can go on guided hikes, canoe trips, and wildlife watching tours.
4. Learn Spanish in Colombia
Colombia is a country known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and friendly people. As a digital nomad, you can take advantage of the opportunity to learn Spanish. You can take language classes or immerse yourself in the culture by staying with a local family. Learning Spanish will not only enhance your travel experience, but it will also make it easier to communicate with locals and conduct business in the region.
Spanish is the official language of Colombia, and it is spoken by over 99% of the population. Learning Spanish will not only help you communicate with locals, but it will also give you a deeper understanding of the culture and history of the region. There are many language schools in Colombia that offer classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
In addition to language classes, you can also immerse yourself in the culture by staying with a local family. This will give you the opportunity to practice your Spanish and learn about the customs and traditions of the region. Some of the most popular destinations for language learning in Colombia include Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena.
5. Visit the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are a group of islands located off the coast of Ecuador. These islands are known for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. As a digital nomad, you can take a break from work and explore the islands. You can go snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife watching. The Galapagos Islands are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget.
The Galapagos Islands were made famous by Charles Darwin, who visited the islands in 1835 and used his observations to develop his theory of evolution. Today, the islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for eco-tourism.
There are many ways to explore the Galapagos Islands, from guided tours to independent travel. Some of the most popular activities include snorkeling with sea lions, hiking to volcanic craters, and visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station. The islands are also home to many luxury eco-lodges, where you can stay in comfort while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
6. Experience Carnival in Rio de Janeiro
Carnival is a festival that takes place in many countries around the world, but the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous. As a digital nomad, you can experience the vibrant colors, music, and energy of Carnival. You can join in the parade, dance the samba, and immerse yourself in the culture of Brazil.
Carnival is a four-day festival that takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent. It is a time of celebration, music, and dancing, and it is one of the biggest events in Brazil. The main event of Carnival is the Samba Parade, where samba schools compete in a colorful and elaborate parade.
To experience Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, you will need to plan ahead. The festival attracts millions of visitors each year, and accommodations and tickets can sell out quickly. Some of the most popular events include the Samba Parade, the Carnival Balls, and the street parties known as blocos.
7. Visit the Salt Flats in Bolivia
The Salt Flats in Bolivia are a stunning natural wonder that is a must-see for any digital nomad visiting South America. These salt flats are the largest in the world and are located in the Andes Mountains. As a digital nomad, you can take a break from work and explore the salt flats. You can take pictures on the reflective surface, visit the nearby lakes, and learn about the indigenous cultures that live in the region.
The Salt Flats, also known as Salar de Uyuni, cover an area of over 4,000 square miles and are located at an altitude of 12,000 feet. The salt flats were formed by the evaporation of ancient lakes and are now a popular destination for tourists and photographers.
There are many ways to explore the Salt Flats, from guided tours to independent travel. Some of the most popular activities include taking perspective photos on the reflective surface, visiting the nearby lakes, and learning about the indigenous cultures that live in the region. The Salt Flats are also a popular destination for stargazing, as the high altitude and clear skies provide excellent viewing conditions.
In conclusion, South America is a continent that offers a wealth of cultural experiences for digital nomads. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, there is something for everyone. As a digital nomad, you can take advantage of the opportunity to explore this stunning region while also working remotely. So pack your bags, grab your laptop, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in South America.