South America contains a greater variety of wildlife and more spectacular landscapes than almost anywhere else on Earth. The continent encompasses the world's longest mountain chain, mightiest river system, and driest desert, yet it is arguably the least known and least explored of the world's land mass. Until recently, a trip to South America was considered only by the wealthy or by the intrepid traveler. But now that film-makers, photographers, and writers share their discoveries on film and in print, more and more people are inspired to see the continent for themselves. South America's potential for ecotourism is gradually being realized, and South America is one of the fastest growing destinations for travelers. Wild South America offers the ecotraveler and the armchair traveler alike an invaluable overview of the whole continent and a practical guide to the best wildlife sites.

Explorers searching for a “New World” found a continent teeming with life and opportunity. Readers will learn how humanity pushed to the edges of the Earth in the quest for knowledge. They will also learn about the exploits of famous explorers such as Francisco Pizarro and Americo Vespucci while full-color photographs show the continent in stunning detail. Fact boxes add depth to every expedition and journey, while glossary terms and further information give readers an in-depth examination of this exciting topic.