what countries are in south america continent

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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13-03-2025

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South America, the southernmost continent of the Americas, boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and histories. Understanding its geography and constituent countries is key to appreciating its diversity. This guide will explore all the countries that make up the continent of South America.

The 12 Countries of South America

South America is comprised of twelve sovereign nations. These countries, while geographically close, are incredibly diverse in terms of their languages, cultures, and economies. Let's explore each one:

1. Argentina: Known for its tango, Patagonia's stunning landscapes, and Malbec wine.
2. Bolivia: A landlocked country with a rich indigenous heritage, the breathtaking Salar de Uyuni, and diverse ecosystems.
3. Brazil: The largest country in South America, famous for the Amazon rainforest, Rio de Janeiro's beaches, and its vibrant Carnival celebrations. It's also the only Portuguese-speaking country on the continent.
4. Chile: A long and narrow country stretching along the Andes Mountains and the Pacific coast. Chile is known for its Atacama Desert, stunning vineyards, and varied geography.
5. Colombia: A country of stunning biodiversity, including the Amazon rainforest and the Andes mountains. Famous for its coffee, vibrant culture, and growing economy.
6. Ecuador: Home to the Galápagos Islands, a unique ecosystem renowned for its diverse wildlife. Also includes the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest.
7. Guyana: A former British colony located on the northern coast. It boasts pristine rainforests and unique wildlife.
8. Paraguay: A landlocked country in the heart of South America, known for its Jesuit missions and strong agricultural sector.
9. Peru: Rich in history, home to Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, and a vibrant Andean culture. Peru's diverse geography ranges from deserts to the Amazon.
10. Suriname: Another former Dutch colony on the northern coast, Suriname is known for its diverse culture and untouched rainforests.
11. Uruguay: Situated on the southeastern coast of South America, Uruguay is known for its beaches, its progressive policies, and its strong agricultural economy.
12. Venezuela: Located on the northern coast, Venezuela is known for its oil reserves, the Angel Falls (the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall), and its diverse ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is the biggest country in South America?

Brazil is the largest country in South America by both land area and population.

Which South American country speaks Portuguese?

Brazil is the only Portuguese-speaking country in South America.

Is there a country in South America that's entirely within the Amazon rainforest?

While no country is *entirely* within the Amazon rainforest, a significant portion of several countries, including Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Venezuela, are covered by the Amazon Basin.

Which country is home to Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu, the famous Incan citadel, is located in Peru.

Exploring the Diversity of South America

This list provides a starting point for exploring the incredible diversity of South America. Each country offers unique experiences, from ancient ruins to modern cities, from bustling markets to breathtaking natural wonders. Further research into the individual countries will reveal a wealth of information about their histories, cultures, and landscapes. Happy travels!

**Note:** This article focuses on the internationally recognized sovereign states of South America. There are other territories and dependencies within the geographic area of South America, but those are not independent countries.