America is a continent that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, from the towering Andes to the immense Amazon Rainforest. It’s not unexpected that America is home to some of the most unusual and shocking facts in the world given that it has over 35 countries and innumerable distinct ecosystems. This blog is for anyone who appreciates learning new things, regardless of whether they are history enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, or just curious people. So come along as we investigate the amazing, fascinating, and sometimes astounding truths of the American continent.
It’s bigger than you think
The Americas are 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). There’s certainly plenty to explore!
It’s also drier than you think (in places)
One of the driest regions on Earth is the Atacama Desert in South America, 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 as flamingos, vicunas, and cactus, despite its harsh environmental conditions.
There’s…uh…fungus?
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 110-foot (33.5-meter) long, 200-ton blue whale was widely thought to be the world’s largest known organism until the 1998 discovery of this enormous Armillaria Ostoyae. Cool!
It’s the perfect place for a road trip
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. The perfect excuse to hire a car and explore plenty of America at your leisure.
It’s been monumental in ground-breaking scientific theories
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.
And is home to awe-inspiring historical sites
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 oxen, 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.
As well as arguably the most famous rainforest and river in the world…
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. Did you know the Amazon is the largest river in the world by volume and drains more water than any other river in the world?
It also has areas that are incredibly useful
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. This is definitely one for the bucket list! What an incredible sight.
And incredibly challenging
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. Feeling up to it?
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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