America is the second-largest continent in the world, occupying over 28% of the planet’s surface and covering an area of approximately 42 million square kilometres (16 million square miles). With this in mind, we have uncovered some unbelievable facts about this vast continent!
The Atacama Desert in South America is one of the driest regions on Earth, where some areas have not seen rain for more than 400 years. The desert is home to a variety of unusual plants and animals, including flamingos, vicuñas, and cactus, despite its harsh environmental conditions.
A fungus in Oregon is the biggest living thing on the planet. The fungus, which has an area of 2,200 acres, is said to be between 2,400 and 8,650 years old.
The Pan-American Highway, which connects Ushuaia, Argentina to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, is more than 19,000 miles (30,000 km) long, making it the world’s longest road. The highway offers breath-taking vistas of some of the world’s most stunning scenery as it travels through 14 different nations.
Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection-based evolution was influenced by the species of the Galapagos Islands. Darwin noted that each island in the Galapagos had its own unique species of plants and animals, and that these species had evolved over time to suit their particular conditions. He visited the islands in 1835. This inspired him to create his evolutionary theory, which fundamentally altered how we perceive the natural world. The Galapagos Islands continue to serve as a living laboratory for the study of evolution, and numerous researchers and scientists are continually motivated by the spectacular fauna and ecosystems that can be discovered there.
Machu Picchu is a world-renowned historical site located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Around 1450 AD, the Inca civilisation constructed it. About a century later, it was abandoned. It was not rediscovered by the outside world until 1911. The idea that no wheels were used in the construction of Machu Picchu is one of the site’s most intriguing and incredible facts. Because they lacked access to draught animals like horses or oxes, the Inca people built their city entirely by hand using only rudimentary equipment like stone hammers and chisels. The fact that such a significant construction achievement was made possible without the aid of wheels is evidence of the brilliance and tenacity of the Inca people and adds to the mystery and awe surrounding this amazing place.
The Amazon Rainforest, which spans nine nations and more than 2.7 million square miles (7 million square kilometres), is the biggest tropical rainforest in the world. To see the rainforest’s tremendous biodiversity and distinctive ecosystems, which are is home to a vast array of wildlife, including the pink river dolphin, giant otters, and piranhas. Visitors can explore it on foot, via boat, or as part of a guided trip.
One of the most well-known natural attractions in North America is the Niagara Falls, which are situated on the border between the United States and Canada. The three different waterfalls that make up the falls draw millions of tourists each year who come to see their breathtaking beauty.
The Darien Gap, which spans more than 100 miles (160 km) of deep jungle and is inaccessible by road, is situated between Panama and Colombia. Given that it is one of the few gaps on the Pan-American Highway, it must be avoided by either flying or using a boat.
The Uyuni Salt Flat, which is in Bolivia and extends over 4,000 square miles (10,000 square kilometres), is the biggest salt flat on earth. As a result of its extreme flatness, NASA uses it to calibrate satellite orbits. During the rainy season, it transforms into a massive mirror that reflects the sky and offers an ethereal experience.
The Tairona people constructed the ancient metropolis of Ciudad Perdida, sometimes known as the “Lost City,” in Colombia more than a thousand years ago. Only recently, in the 1970s, was it rediscovered, and getting there requires a multiday walk through the forest. It’s regarded as one of South America’s most difficult and rewarding walks.
Aconcagua, in the Andes mountain range on the boundary between Argentina and Chile, is the highest peak in the Americas. Its height of 6,959 metres (22,831 feet) makes it a popular mountaineering and hiking destination.
These are just a few of the countless amazing facts about seeing the American continent. Whether you enjoy the outdoors, learning about history, or seeking adventure, this vast continent has plenty to offer everyone.
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