SOUTH

AMERICA
MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA

•Argentina •Paraguay

•Brazil •Uruguay

•Colombia •Guyana

•Venezuela •Suriname

•Chile •French Guiana

•Ecuador

•Peru

•Bolivia
 ARGENTINA
CAPITAL: BUENOS AIRES

FACTS AND FIGURES:

Major Language – Spanish

Major Religion: Christianity

Population – 45,953,832 as of Sunday,
February 18, 2024, based on
Worldometer elaboration of the latest
United Nations data

Argentina population is equivalent to 0.57% of the total world population.

Argentina ranks number 33 in the list of countries (and dependencies) by population.
MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA
POLITICS OF ARGENTINA:
Government Type: Republic

Constitution:
Adopted: 1853; This is one of the primary sources of existing law
in Argentina and discusses declarations, rights, and guarantees;
form of government; and divisions of government powers.

The President is the Chief of State and the Head of Government.

Chief of State and Head of the Government:

President Alberto Angel Fernandez
CULTURE AND
DEMOGRAPHICS
 Tilcara Carnival Festival, Argentina

The city of Tilcara holds their annual Carnival for nine days in January and February
to express their gratitude toward the Earth.
TOURIST DESTINATION IN ARGENTINA
TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK
Huge national park offering mountain & glacier views, more than 100 bird species, camping
& boating.
 PARQUE NACIONAL LOS GLACIARES
•Los Glaciares National Park is a federal protected area in Santa
Cruz Province, Argentina.
•The park covers an area of 726,927 ha, making it the largest
national park in the country.
•Established on 11 May 1937, it hosts a representative sample of
Magellanic sub polar forest and west Patagonian steppe
biodiversity in good state of conservation.
•In 1981, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The
park's name refers to the giant ice cap in the Andes, the largest
outside of Antarctica, Greenland and Iceland, feeding 47 large
glaciers, of which 13 flow towards the Atlantic Ocean.
•In other parts of the world, glaciers start at a height of at least
2,500 m above mean sea level, but due to the size of the ice cap,
these glaciers begin at only 1,500 m, sliding down to 200 m. Los
Glaciares borders Torres del Paine National Park to the south in
Chilean territory.
GASTRONOMY
Chimichurri
A green salsa made of finely chopped parsley, oregano, onion, garlic, chilli pepper flakes,
olive oil and a touch of acid, such as lemon or vinegar, chimichurri is the country’s go-to
condiment.
Provoleta
Argentineans give whole new meaning to grilled cheese with their trademark dish of provoleta. A
consequence of the significant Italian immigration to Argentina, provoleta is the country’s variant
on provolone. Pungent, sharp, sliced discs of the cheese are topped with chilli flakes and herbs, like
oregano, then grilled.
 BRAZIL
CAPITAL : BRASILIA
FACTS AND FIGURES:

Full name: Federative Republic of Brazil

Major language: Portuguese

Major religion: Christianity

Population: 217,192,472 as of Sunday, February 18, 2024, based on Worldometer elaboration of

the latest United Nations data.

Brazil population is equivalent to 2.69% of the total world population.

Brazil ranks number 7 in the list of countries (and dependencies) by population.
MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA
POLITICAL SYSTEM
GOVERNMENT TYPE: FEDERAL REPUBLIC
A federal republic is a federation of states with a republican form of
government. "a country that is governed by elected representatives and
by an elected leader rather than by a king or queen".

Constitution: Adopted: 1988; Resulting from the previous six

constitutions, this version of the constitution abolished the monarchy in
Brazil and introduced separate state powers. It also reinforces the powers
of the legislature and introduces environmental protection.

The President is the Chief of State and Head of the Government

Chief of State and Head of Government: President Luiz Inácio Lula da

Silva
 CULTURE AND
DEMOGRAPHICS
Brazil's census addresses ethnicity and race
by categorizing people mainly by skin color.
The results of the census indicated that
• 92 million (48%) Brazilians were white
• 83 million (44%) were brown
• 13 million (7%) were black
• 1.1 million (0.50%) were yellow
• 536,000 (0.25%) were indigenous.
 BRAZILIAN CARNIVAL
Annual Brazilian festival held between the Friday afternoon before Ash Wednesday and Ash Wednesday at
noon, which marks the beginning of Lent, the forty-day period before Easter.
 GASTRONOMY

FEIJOADA ( black bean stew ) BRIGADEIRO

Feijoada is a hearty stew of black beans, sausages and cuts balls of truffles made with condensed milk
of pork of varying quality – traditionally veering towards and covered in chocolate sprinkles.
the lower end, with trotters and ears all going into the mix.
 CHRIST
THE
The REDEEME
symbol of Brazilian Christianity, located
at the top of Corcovado mountain, at peak of
23000 feet.
R
Location
Corcovado mountain,
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
 AMAZON
RAINFOREST

The world’s largest tropical rainforest, famed for its biodiversity. It’s
crisscrossed by thousands of rivers, including the powerful Amazon.
IGUAÇU
NATIONAL
PARK
• National park in Paraná State,
Brazil.
• declared World Heritage Sites
by UNESCO, in 1984.
 CUSTOM AND TRADITIONS
SAIDEIRA
A saideira is the very last drink of the
night when you’re in a bar and if you
and your pals are ready to leave, you
will have to order one last saideira and
the bill.
New Year’s Eve
Wearing white to bring good luck
in the following year to jumping
seven waves on the shoreline for
more good luck. TRIVIA
• The most popular surname in
Feijoada on a Brazil is Silva.
Wednesday • Brazil has more than 4,000
airports
• Brazil has 21 UNESCO
Wednesday is the quasi-official World Heritage Sites.
day for feijoada in Brazil and
restaurants will make sure it’s on
their lunch menu.
COLOMBIA
CAPITAL: Bogotá

FACTS AND FIGURES:

Full name: Republic of Colombia

Population: 52,247,239 as of Sunday, February 18, 2024, based on Worldometer elaboration of the latest
United Nations data
Colombia population is equivalent to 0.65% of the total world population.
Colombia ranks number 28 in the list of countries (and dependencies) by population.

Official Language: Spanish

Major Religion: Roman Catholic

MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA
 POLITICAL SYSTEM
Government Type:
Republic under Authoritarian Presidential Rule
whereby the President of Colombia is both head of state and head of
government, and of a multi-party system.

Constitution:
Adopted: 1991; Has recently been called the Constitution of Rights.
Main changes include Colombia changing the shape of a decentralized
unified state with a certain autonomy for its territorial entities, a
presidential system, and the banning of the extradition of Colombian
citizens. Presidential reelection has been banned completely and the
power of judicial review was transferred from the supreme court of
justice to an independent constitutional court.

Chief of State and Head of the Government:

President Gustavo Petro Urrego
CULTURE AND
DEMOGRAPHICS

Colombia's people are as varied as its

landscape. Most citizens are descended
from three ethnic groups: Indians, African
people brought to Colombia to work as
slaves, and European settlers. This rich
cultural mix makes the country's foods,
music, dance, and art diverse and unique.
 LA CHICHA
La Chicha of the farmers in the inlands of
Colombia. The particularity of the latter is that it’s
danced with a glass full of chicha – an alcoholic
drink made out of fermented corn – on top of the
dancer’s heads.

Legend has it that the dance originates from pub

evenings where, after getting drunk, people made
bets that they could dance with a glass full of
alcohol on top of their heads!
 GASTRONOMY

Ajiaco is a unique Colombian dish, especially beloved in the city of

Bogota. It's a hearty chicken soup made with potatoes and corn on the
cob. Small yellow Andean potatoes called papas criollas are the
important ingredient

HORMIGA CULONA For centuries big-bottomed ants a type of large

leaf-cutter ant, always female have been a regional delicacy and source of
local pride in Santander. Harvested in the spring, the culonas are quite
nutritious, packed with protein and low in saturated fat; some locals like to
tout their aphrodisiac qualities.
 TOURIST
ATTRACTIONS
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira
The small town of Zipaquira is famous for its salt mines
and for the Salt Cathedral built inside the network of
monumental chambers and tunnels that were left
behind when commercial mining operations ceased.

This cathedral is one of the best places to visit in

Colombia because it’s unlike any other in the world, in
terms of its innovative architecture.

It was opened in 1995 and represents an eclectic mix of

religion and architecture to maximize protection from
the ever-present risks of working in a mine.
 TOURIST
ATTRACTIONS

Caño Cristales

is the most beautiful river in

Colombia and perhaps one of
the most unspoiled natural
places to visit in this diverse
country.

Caño Cristales is located inside

the National Natural Park La
Macarena in the department of
Meta in the Eastern region of
Colombia known as The Plains.
 TOURIST
ATTRACTIONS
Historic Centre of Santa Cruz
de Mompox

Founded in 1540 on the banks of the River Magdalena,

Mompox played a key role in the Spanish colonization of
northern South America.

From the 16th to the 19th century the city developed

parallel to the river, with the main street acting as a dyke.

The historic center has preserved the harmony and unity

of the urban landscape. Most of the buildings are still
used for their original purposes, providing an exceptional
picture of what a Spanish colonial city was like.
 TOURIST
ATTRACTIONS
Take a Dip in Totumo Volcano

Just an hour outside of Cartagena, lies Totumo’s

otherworldly volcano mud bath – a mile-deep mix
of thermal water and subterranean minerals.

After you enjoy a muddy massage (part of the

experience, but tips are expected), join the rest of
your mud people getting bathed rigorously by the
local women in the nearby lagoon.
VENEZUELA
CAPITAL : Caracas
FACTS AND FIGURES:

Full name: República de Venezuela/Bolivarian

Republic of Venezuela

Population: 29,190,579 as of Sunday, February 18,

2024, based on Worldometer elaboration of the latest
United Nations data

Major language: Spanish

Major religion: Christianity

MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA
POLITICAL SYSTEM
GOVERNMENT TYPE: Federal Republic

Constitution: Adopted: 1999; Replaced the 1961 version

which was the longest serving constitution in Venezuelan
history. It was also the first constitution approved by popular
referendum in the country's history. Major changes to the
government's structure and responsibilities are explained as
well as a greater number of human rights being highlighted and
guaranteed to all citizens of Venezuela.

The President is the Chief of State and Head of the Government

Chief of State and Head of Government:

Nicolas Maduro Moros
 CULTURE AND DEMOGRAPHICS

Venezuelan Hospitality
They go out of their way to make guests feel
welcome and comfortable.
Venezuelan hosts cater to their every desire.

Their flag is a national icon and is respected and

admired.

Ethnic Make-up: Spanish, Italian, Portuguese,

Arab, German, African, indigenous people

Religions: nominally Roman Catholic 96%,

Protestant 2%, other 2%

Climate: tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in

highlands
 Feria del Sol, or Carnaval Taurino de America, is an
international cultural festival held in the city of Mérida,
Venezuela every February of the year. The Feria festival is
held alongside the carnival feast.
 GASTRONOMY
1. Arepas: The ultimate Venezuelan favorite
Venezuelan cuisine

Venezuelan cuisine is incredibly rich and diverse,

but, as the popular saying goes: “There’s nothing
more Venezuelan than an arepa”.

Arepas are these sort of small pitas made with corn

flour and filled with a variety of ingredients. Beans,
cheese, rice, pork, eggs…

It depends on the region and the creativity of the

cook (or, sometimes, the leftovers in the fridge).

You can eat them as a main dish or as a side and

they are perfect for breakfast, lunch or even dinner!
Pabellón Criollo: The country’s national
dish Venezuelan cuisine

Yeah, arepas might be popular, but when it

comes to a truly patriotic meal, Pabellón
Criollo is the quintessence of Venezuelan
cuisine.

It consists of super juicy pulled beef, spicy

rice and black beans. Also, to really get that
Venezuelan flavor, you can serve it with
plantains or a fried egg on top. It is mouth-
watering!
 TOURIST
ATTRACTIONS
Fortín La Galera, Juan Griego
The fort was once used by rebels to fight Spanish
forces in the early 19th century--rebels fought
valiantly until an error caused an explosion which
killed most of them.

Due to the fort’s strategical placement, it

commands a remarkably open view of the
surrounding land and waterways.

Take time to appreciate the structure of the fort

before heading to the outer walls to take in the
view.

Plan to visit Fortín La Galera during your

Margarita Island vacation using our convenient
Margarita Island trip itinerary builder .
 TOURIST
ATTRACTIONS
Margarita Island
Isla de Margarita, part of Venezuela,
lies in the Caribbean Sea about 40
kilometers north of the mainland. It’s
a popular holiday destination,
comprising 2 peninsulas linked by the
sand and mangroves of the Laguna de
la Restinga national park.

Most people live, or stay, on the

eastern peninsula, home to the cities of
Pampatar, Porlamar and La Asuncion
 TOURIST
ATTRACTIONS
Salto Angel
Thundering Angel Falls is the world's
highest waterfall and Venezuela's number-
one tourist attraction. Its total height is 979m
(3211ft), of which the uninterrupted drop is
807m (2646ft), about 16 times the height of
Niagara Falls. The cascade spills off the
heart-shaped Auyantepui, one of the largest
of the tepuis (sandstone-capped mesa), into
Devil's Canyon.
CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

Holiday Traditions of Venezuela

"Feliz Navidad“

In Venezuela, Christmas is celebrated

with a number of religious and
traditional customs.

As a predominantly Catholic country,

Christmas festivities celebrate the birth
of the child Jesus.
GREETINGS
DO'S
1. Shake hands when meeting someone for the first time.
(Men shake firmly, women shake softly)
2. Talk about family, hobbies, and vacations
1. Touch the first time you meet someone;
Venezuelans need to trust you before physical contact
2. Give the middle finger or the "OK" sign; they are seen as
rude.
3. Turn your back when someone is talking to you because it
shows disinterest in the topic.

DON'TS

1. Talk about politics. People have strong opinions about

them.

GESTURES

DO'S

1. Keep eye contact because it shows you are interested

in the conversation.
2. Women kiss once on the cheek, but not the first meeting.

DON'TS
VISITING DO'S

DO'S 1. Wait until everyone has been served before

eating.
1. Travel with a group because violence and kidnapping 2. Converse while eating.
is prevalent
2. Drive with doors locked because of car-jacking at DON'TS
traffic lights.
1. Don't slurp, belch, or chew loudly.
DON'TS 2. Leave the table before everyone has finished eating.

1. Wearing jewelry, carrying large sums of money, or

displaying cash, credit cards, phones, et
2. Walking at night in most areas.

EATING
TRIVIA

1. The name of Venezuela comes from the Italian word “Veneziola”.

2.The country’s unemployment rate is around 8.1%.
3. Venezuela was listed as the most dangerous country on Earth in 2015, where one
person was murdered every 21 minutes.
4. Venezuela is 7th country in the world with the highest number of wild species.
5. Venezuela is one of the 17 most biodiverse countries on the planet.
 CHILE
Capital City – Santiago
FACTS AND FIGURES:
Size – 756,950 km²

Geography – Low coastal mountains, central valley, Andes in east

Population: The current population of Chile is 19,648,247 as of Monday,

February 19, 2024, based on Worldometer elaboration of the latest United
Nations data

Chile population is equivalent to 0.24% of the total world population.

Chile ranks number 65 in the list of countries (and dependencies) by

population.

Language – Spanish

Religion – 70% Roman Catholic, 15% Evangelical, 8.3% none, 7.7% other

Monetary Unit – Peso

MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA
 POLITICAL SYSTEM

Government Name: Republic of Chile

Government Type: Republic

Constitution:
Adopted: 1980; Chapters cover information regarding the
bases of institutionality, nationality and citizenry,
constitutional rights and obligations, the government,
electoral justice, armed forces, and the central bank.

Chief of State and Head of Government:

President Gabriel Boric
 CULTURE AND
DEMOGRAPHICS
Chile is a very multiethnic society,
although studies on the country's ethnic
structure vary a great deal. One study
found that 30% of Chile's population is
of Caucasian origin.

A genetic study by the University

of Chile found that the
average Chilean's genes are 35%
Amerindian and 64% Caucasian.
 GASTRONOMY

Empanada
Popular in most of Latin America and brought by the Spanish
to New World, empanada is a stuffed pastry made by folding a
round shaped dough around the stuffing forming a half moon
or they can be folded in a square shape.

Empanadas can be baked or fried and stuffed with a variety of

fillings. In Chile there are three basic varieties: empanada de
mariscos or seafood empanada, empanada de queso or cheese
empanada and the most popular one is empanada de pino.
Pino is a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, black olives
and hard boiled eggs.
 GASTRONOMY
Arrollado huaso (Pork roll peasant style)
When a pig is ready to be slaughtered after a long fattening up, it
means winter is knocking at the door of the homes in the South
and so, nothing is wasted and almost everything in the animal is
made use of, as to wave away the cold or to celebrate some Saint
in the middle of June.

To make this pork roll, or arrollado, the ingredients include pork

meat pulp, slices of bacon, garlic, pepper and cumin to taste; it is
then rolled in pork skin, “painting” the resulting cylinder with chili
pepper sauce and tying it with string. It is then cooked in a broth
while the relatives begin to arrive attracted by the tasty smell of
this meal.

The huaso, or peasant style part, comes from the chili pepper
sauce, red and cheerful from the stove heat and the wine
celebrating some local Saint.
 GASTRONOMY

Caldillo de congrio (Conger eel soup)

Pablo Neruda dedicated an ode to it that made it forever
famous, especially in Isla Negra, where the poet lived.
However, this soup is served all along the coast in
Central Chile and even a little farther south of
Talcahuano.

Invigorating and not at all heavy, there is a variety of

ways to prepare it, but it is always steaming hot and
served in a clay dish, accompanied with mussels and
clams in addition to a good white wine to honor it.
 GASTRONOMY

Cazuela de Ave

This soup is made with chicken, beef or lamb, and you

may also find squash, corn cob or potatoes in it. It’s as
hearty as it sounds, a good, warming dish, flavored with
peppers, chili, and corn.

Made with chicken, it’s called cazuela de ave and is

Chile’s national dish. The “proper” way to eat any
version is to drink the soup first, then eat up the rest.

Cazuela takes its name from the bowl it is traditionally

cooked in. A cazuela is a shallow, unglazed, earthenware
pot.
 History of Chile
The territory of Chile has been populated since at least 3000
BC. By the 16th century, Spanish conquistadors began to
subdue and colonize the region of present-day Chile, and the
territory was a colony between 1540 and 1818, when it gained
independence from Spain.
 For many, the nature and wildlife to see in Chile is the main
reason they want to come here. With territory stretching from
dry desert in the North to ice-covered fjords in the South and
bordered on one side by the Andes Mountains, Chile has some
of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes in South America.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Easter Island
A chilean territory, is a remote volcanic island in
Polynesia. Its native name is Rapa Nui. It’s famed
for archaeological sites, including nearly 900
monumental statues called moai, created by
inhabitants during the 13th–16th centuries.

The moai are carved human figures with oversize

heads, often resting on massive stone pedestals
called ahus. Ahu Tongariki has the largest group of
upright moai.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Sandboard in the
Atacama Desert
The Atacama is home to some of Chile’s most spectacular
landscapes, and it shouldn’t be missed. In between visiting Valle
de la Luna, Geysers El Tatio and Lagunas Altiplanicas, why not
try your hand at sandboarding?

If you’ve had some experience, you will be able to cruise down

the steep 120-metre (394-foot) dunes.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Ice Ice Baby

The third-largest ice mass in the world, after those in
Greenland and Antarctica, is found in Chile. The
Patagonian Southern Ice Field stretches over three
national parks, including the Torres del Paine and San
Rafael Lagoon National Parks.

It is one of the most exciting treks in the world, so grab

some crampons and a warm jacket and go.
 Do’s and Don’ts
Chilean Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts

Chileans are known to be very friendly and hospitable people. They will make you feel right at home. Their
culture and customs are different from what you may be used to at home or from what you’ve experienced
when travelling elsewhere. For that, we’ve compiled a list of some do’s and don’ts when it comes to
Chilean Etiquette for when you are fortunate enough to make a trip down the the southern hemisphere.

Do:
Make direct eye contact while having a conversation with someone you meet. Chilean’s are naturally
affectionate people so don’t be taken aback when someone very close to you during a conversation. It’s just
a sign that they are showing interest in what you are saying and are being friendly.

Address people as Senor for men and Senora for women if you aren’t sure what their title is. Residents of
Chile are usually addressed by their titles.
At a meal, keep your hands above the table at all times, even when you have finished eating.
Discussing families, children, easter island and history are considered good conversation topics.
Don’ts:
• Don’t bother to bargain for things in stores or street markets. It’s illegal to
sell items without an issued receipt.

• Although certain hand gestures are common and come natural to you in
conversation, many of them may be misinterpreted as being rude.

• Raising your right fist to head level is a Communist sign, avoid doing that
hand gesture.

• Do not discuss politics with just anyone, preferably only friends. If the
subject comes up, use caution.
 TRIVIA
1. Chile is the world’s longest country from north to south
measuring at 4,620km (2,647mi). It extends across 38
degrees of latitude but is only 150km (93mi) wide from west
to east.
2. The Andes mountains trace the entire length of the
country, covering approximately 80% of its land. As a result,
only 3.8% of Chile’s land is arable.
3. Easter Island, famous for its moai statues, is geographically
Polynesian but officially belongs to Chile. Located 2,000km
(1,200mi) east of Pitcairn and 3,700km (2,300mi) to the west of
Chile, it is one of the most remote
4. There are approximately 90 active volcanoes in
Chile. Cerro Arul, Cerro Hudson, and Villarrica –
composite volcanoes, sometimes called stratovolcanos
– are three of its most active and therefore most
closely monitored. Chile is also home to the world’s
highest historically active volcano: Ojos del Salado
which stands at 6,893m (22,615ft).
5. Chile celebrates its independence each year with
Fiestas Patrias on 18th and 19th of September. By law,
all public buildings must display the Chilean flag
during the celebrations. The flag must be pristine and
hung from a white pole or from the front of the
building. Failure to meet the requirements could earn a
fine of up to 40,000 pesos ($80 USD).
 ECUADOR
 Official Name: República del Ecuador (Republic of
Ecuador)
 Capital: Quito
 Monetary Unit: Dollar (U.S.$)
 Population: 19,648,247 as of Monday, February 19,
2024, based on Worldometer elaboration of the latest
United Nations data
Chile population is equivalent to 0.24% of the
total world population.
Chile ranks number 65 in the list of countries
(and dependencies) by population.
 Total Area (Sq Mi): 98,985
 Total Area (Sq Km): 256,370
 PEOPLE

 Ecuador’s culture is a mix of distinct traditions that

originated in the Andes, the Ecuadorian Amazon, or
the coast.
 After the arrival of the Spanish, Ecuadorian identity
incorporated Catholic traditions, which are now deeply
ingrained in national culture.
 Approximately 40 to 65 percent of the population
is mestizo, a mix of indigenous and Spanish ancestry.
 Another 20 to 25 percent of Ecuadorians define
themselves as indigenous. Four percent of Ecuador’s
population lives in the Amazon Basin (also known as
the Oriente).
 POLITICAL SYSTEM
 Government Name: Republic of Ecuador
 Form of Government: Republic
 Constitution:
Adopted: 2008; First constitution in the world to legally
recognize the Rights of Nature. Basic constitutional
guidelines regarding rights, constitutional guarantees,
territorial organization of the state, development structure,
and the good way of living system are outlined. Also
discussed are international investment, food sovereignty, and
drug liberalization.
 Head of State and Government:
President: Daniel Noboa Azin
LANGUAGES

 OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: Spanish

 Quechua and Shuar are the two major
indigenous languages.
 Quechua is the language of the Inca, which
was the dominant culture in Ecuador
when the Spanish arrived. Quechua can still
be heard throughout the Sierra regions — in
fact, some older people hardly know
Spanish.
 Shuar comes from a group of indigenous
people in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
GASTRONOMY
 Locro de Papa: Potatoes in South America come
in all shapes and sizes – literally thousands of
varieties – so it's no wonder that many local
cuisines have used potatoes for centuries to feed
their populations.
 This soup uses yellow potatoes, onions, and
chicken stock to make a silky base for a soup that
will then be thickened with milk and eggs.
 Then add a generous amount of cheese to top the
preparation.
 Served with cubed avocado and corn, this is a
great dish for a large family, easy to make, budget-
friendly, and absolutely delicious.
 GASTRONOMY
 Encebollado
 the national dish of Ecuador, a fish soup that is characterized
by a large amount of onions. Very useful in curing hangovers,
the dish is made with fresh tuna meat, cassava root, tomatoes,
onions, coriander, and various spices.
 Tomatoes, onions, chili, coriander, and cumin form a pungent
mix and a base for the soup, called sofrito, while pickled
onions go either on top of encebollado or into it, giving it its
name that is literally translated to onioned.
 The soup originates from Ecuador's coast during the time
when the fishers were out at sea and made the soup out of
necessity.
 As they had some spices, and fresh fish was readily available,
encebollado was created and became widely consumed
throughout the country.
 GASTRONOMY
 Ecuadorian Ceviche
 The most popular dish on the coast of Ecuador is
ceviche, which differs from the Peruvian version
because it is cooked with a lot of coriander and
lemon juice. It is usually served with popcorn,
toast and chifles. People also make ceviche in
Ecuador from calamari, shrimp and mollusks –
you can choose whatever you want!
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Galapagos Islands
 Named for the giant tortoises on the islands, this
UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a unique
ecosystem that largely evolved without outside
influences (mainland Ecuador lies some 1,000
kilometers to the east) and offers an exceptional
opportunity for wildlife viewing.
 The Galápagos Islands remain one of the most active
volcanic regions in the world, and the formation of the
islands is still in progress.
 Galapagos Islands
 Most of the 13 large islands, six smaller islands, and 42
islets that make up the Galápagos were declared part of
the Galápagos National Park in the 1950s, and visiting
this fragile ecosystem can only be undertaken as part of a
guided tour to designated visitor sites (there are, however,
one or two areas visitors can go without a guide, including
some areas popular with scuba divers).
 The main attraction here are its many bird species, of
which 28 are unique to the islands, including the
Galápagos penguin, flightless cormorant, and waved
albatross, and the 13 species of Darwin's famous finches.
 Hot Tip: Be sure to book a behind-the-scenes visit to
the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora on
Santa Cruz Island (tours of this important research facility
can be made in advance of your arrival).
 Quito: Ecuador's Historic Andean
Capital
 High in the Andes, Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is filled with
colonial architecture and is the largest historic center in South
America. Preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its
many old churches, beautiful public squares, and world-class
museums, this city of 1.6 million people has long been a favorite
with artisans and is a great place to shop for local art and crafts,
from ceramics and wood carvings to colorful clothing.
 The most famous attraction in Quito's historic center is the San
Francisco Church on the Plaza San Francisco. Dating back to the
first half of the 1500s, the church's white-washed twin towers
flank each side of the entrance to this massive complex. It's
notable for its splendid Baroque interior and the Convent
Museum of San Francisco with its religious paintings, sculptures,
carvings, porcelain, textiles, and handcrafted furniture.
 Quito: Ecuador's Historic Andean
Capital
 Other beautiful churches to visit include La Compania
de Jesus Church, constructed in the early 17th century
and listed by UNESCO as one of the top 100 most
important buildings in the world, and Quito's
cathedral, Basílica del Voto Nacional, constructed in
the 1560s.
 One of the top things to do here is to explore Plaza
Grande, a beautiful square surrounded by important
points of interest, including the cathedral, the
Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, and the
Municipal Palace, as well as Calle La Ronda, a buzzing
street lined with restaurants, cafés, art galleries, and
other entertainment.
 CULTURE
 Ecuadorians are romantics, so physical contact is
an important factor in informal greetings
between friends. When you walk down the
street, the proper way to say “hi” to people is
buenos dias (good morning), buenas tarde (good
afternoon), and buenas noches (good evening).
 For formal greetings, especially when
addressing someone over 50, it’s best to add
senior or senora and offer a hand shake. When
you run into someone you know, informal
greetings suggest a quick air-kiss on the left
cheek or a hug.
CULTURE
 The Ecuadorians are a little too sweet for their
own good, and really want to please the people
visiting their country. Which is fine, unless
you’re asking for directions.
 Ask an Ecuadorian directions and they will
point you the way…but not always the right
way. Sometimes it’s a language barrier and
sometimes they just don’t know the location
because the town has grown so quickly.
 Even taxi drivers navigate more by landmarks
than street names. It’s important to write down
the location’s address and phone number in
case you need to call for directions and print a
google map if possible.
 CULTURE
 It’s not unusual to be extended an invitation for dinner by
your neighbors or Ecuadorian friends, and it’s an insult if
you don’t say yes. When you’re invited for dinner at 7
p.m., remember, it’s a suggestion.
 This is a case where punctuality is not an Ecuadorian trait
so coming 15 to 30 minutes late is the norm. Bringing a
nice bottle of wine or a dessert is appropriate.
 The host will show you where to sit at the dining table, so
you don’t take someone’s favorite spot, and cues when it’s
time to start eating.
 Usually people over 50 tend to be more religious, so if
there is a prayer to be done, again the host will cue the
guests.
PERU
 OFFICIAL NAME: Republic of Peru
 FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Constitutional republic
 CAPITAL: Lima
 POPULATION: 34,563,734 as of Tuesday, February 20,
2024, based on Worldometer elaboration of the latest
United Nations data
 Peru population is equivalent to 0.43% of the total world
population.
 Peru ranks number 45 in the list of countries (and
dependencies) by population.
 OFFICIAL LANGUAGES: Spanish, Quechua
 MONEY: Nuevo Sol
 AREA: 496,224 square miles (1,285,216 square
kilometers)
 MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Andes
 MAJOR RIVERS: Amazon, Ucayali, Madre de Dios
MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA
 POLITICAL SYSTEM

 Government Name: Republic of Peru

 Form of Government: Presidential Republic
 Constitution:
Adopted: 1993; Replaced former socialist constitution to give
greater power to president as he appoints the prime minister
and ultimately has final say in almost every governmental
matter. Another section of the constitution outlines the
powers of the legislative branch but not the judiciary
(nominally independent).
 Head of State and Government:
President Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra
PEOPLE & CULTURE

 The people of Peru are a mix of many different

cultures, including Indians, Spaniards and other
Europeans, descendants of African slaves, and
Asians.
 Until recently, most people lived in the
countryside.
 But now, more than 70 percent live in cities.
 Most Peruvians follow the Catholic religion
introduced by the Spanish.
GASTRONOMY
CEVICHE
 The national dish and one of the most popular
foods in Peru, ceviche can cause instant
obsession.
 Other nations (Mexico, Ecuador) have their own
variations on the dish, but this cooked fish served
cold traditionally includes sea bass
(corvina) marinated for a few minutes in lime
juice, onion, salt, and hot chilies (aji) is Peruvian
to the core.
 To balance the spicy protein, ceviche often
includes a side of starchy boiled corn (choclo) and
sweet potatoes (camote). For additional
texture, dry roasted corn kernels (cancha) are
scattered around to add a delicious crunchiness.
GASTRONOMY
CAUSA (POTATO CASSEROLE)

 This native Quechuan dish can be found all over Peru in

countless variations.
 Causa Limeña (from Lima) is the best-known version. Serve
as a cake roll, a casserole, a terrine, or even in bright and
colorful individual portions.
 No matter how you make it, it’s all about the mash: yellow
Peruvian potatoes combined with oil, lime, and spicy aji
amarillo sauce.
 For the meat filling, most chefs use shredded tuna, chicken or
salmon blended in with mayonnaise. They then add layer
upon layer of hard boiled eggs, avocado, and olives. The top
layer is always more of the base mash.
 Causa is always served cold, usually as a side or salad with a
meal.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
 Machu Picchu
 The city of Machu Picchu, is the most
popular tourist attraction in Peru and one of
the new seven wonders of the modern world.
 It is the most visited destination in Peru, with
its complex constructions since the Inca time
and culture.
 Machu Picchu was the ceremonial center of
the Incas. The tourists like to visit the ruins,
because they get a lot of energy of the Apus
(Gods of the Incas).
 The “Lost City of the Incas” is invisible from
the Urubamba Valley below and completely
self-contained, surrounded by agricultural
terraces and watered by natural springs.
Huacachina

 Located near Ica, Huacachina is a tiny oasis

town surrounding a small natural lake and
itself surrounded by towering sand dunes.
 Once a playground for the Peruvian elite,
these days Huacachina mostly attracts
international tourists.
 The big draw here is the opportunity to sand
board and taking dune buggy rides on the
sand dunes.
Historic Center of Lima

 The historic center of Lima and the buildings and

balconies that fill it take you back in time to the
days of the viceroyalty, when Lima served as the
most important city for the Spanish in South
America.
 Technically stretching from the Plaza de Armas to
the Plaza San Martin, the historic center still
highlights the European and Catholic Church’s
extreme influence on Peruvian culture and
architecture.
 The sights you can’t miss include the Church and
Convent of San Francisco, the Presidential Palace,
and the Cathedral of Lima.
Do’s
 Engage in discussions on topics such as football (soccer), Peruvian cuisine and Peru's natural
landscapes. These are welcome topics of conversation.
 Try to show an interest in Peruvian cuisine. Food is a big source of pride for many Peruvians and is
often a great way to bond.
 Be open to invitations to join in social activities such as a game of soccer. It is a great way to interact
with others and to build stronger relationships.
 In a social setting, genuine attempts to speak Spanish will be appreciated, regardless of the level of
proficiency.
 Always show respect to elders through actions such as giving up one's seat on public transport.
Deferring to the elderly is highly valued in Peru.
 Do make an effort to look presentable. For many Peruvians, good impressions are often related to the
effort one puts into their physical appearance.
 Peruvians enjoy sharing information about their daily lifestyles (. However, jokes or criticism about
lifestyle is considered offensive.
 Don’ts
 Do not be offended if you are called ‘gringo’. This term is generally used
not as an insult but as a way to refer to any foreign people or objects.
 Never insult or make jokes about a Peruvian’s mother. Such comments
are considered highly offensive as many Peruvians show utmost respect
towards their mothers and grandmothers.
 Avoid referring to the United States as ‘America’. Specify it as the
‘United States’ (‘Estados Unidos’) instead. All of South America is also
technically American, and Peruvians may find it frustrating when the
term is reduced to refer to just those from the USA.
 Avoid boasting about Chile to your Peruvian counterpart. As one of
Peru’s neighboring countries, Chile is thought to be a ‘rival’, in a similar
way that New Zealand is to Australia. One example of this rivalry is the
dispute over the origin of the alcoholic beverage known as ‘pisco’.
 The American “O.K.” sign is considered inappropriate in Peru, but a
thumbs up sign is a sign of approval or congratulations.