According to figures released by online travel agency Real South America, the top south america holiday spots for 2010 are Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Machu Pichu in Peru. The figures are based on the website’s bookings in 2009 and inquiries for 2010 and reveal a gravitation to destinations off the beaten track.

Tours a Machu Picchu Peru

There has been increased interest in Argentina (25 per cent) and Brazil (18 per cent), Peru (15 per cent) and a 15 per cent increase in interest in Chile.

In 2008/09, 63,000 people had visited Mexico and Central and Travel South America, up from 32,000 in 2000/01.

The continent as a whole is big, and it would take months to see just the one or two major sights of each country. But if you are planning on visiting South America, consider making at least one of the following places the essentials of your vacations…

Machu Picchu, Peru

One of the most popular architectural sites in the world, ‘The Lost City of the Incas’ has long been one of the major attractions for South America aventure holidays, and it certainly lives up to the hype. Perched on top of an isolated mountainside, this excellently preserved set of ruins lay undiscovered until the beginning of the 20th century, and is perhaps the finest set of ancient Inca site on the continent.

Whether you walk the famous Road of the Inca, stay in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, or just visit for day on the train from Cusco, there are numerous ways to see Machu Picchu. While you are there, make sure to climb up the nearby mountain of Huayna Picchu for some spectacular views of the ruins from above.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina/ Brazil

This stunning series of waterfalls, located on the triple border between Brazil, Argentina , is one of South America’s natural wonders. Surrounded by jungle, there are numerous walking routes around the waterfalls, as well as the opportunity to take a short boat trip right beneath the most impressive section of the falls. It’s an ideal destination for a spot of South America aventures.

Galapagos Islands, Travel Ecuador

This cluster of islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, is home to one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.,the island is home to many species of plants and animals.  Entry to the region is tightly controlled, but most visits combine a mixture of cruising and walking around the islands. If you are fascinated by animals, the Galapagos Islands are great for aventures!

Torres del Paine National Park and Perito Moreno Glaciar, Chile / Argentina

Centred around the stunning southern Andes mountains and with surrounding countryside that includes glaciers, lakes and thick forests, the park is a delightful place to explore on foot. Single day and multi day treks are available for all skill levels, and if you want to experience some of the finest South America trekking. In Argentina El Chalten is located at the foot of Monte Fitz Roy and is surrounded by glacial lakes for picture perfect vistas in every direction. Getting to the “Trekking Capital of Argentina“, at the north end of Los Glaciares National Park infront of the Southern Patagonian Ice Fields (the most important continental ice mass after Antarctica).