The Andes Mountains

Located in South America, the Andes Mountain stretches from the north to the south, going along the western coast some 4,500 miles, making this one of the longest and highest mountain ranges in the entire world. When visiting South America, this area is one that you certainly should experience but remember that with some areas of the Andes being closer to the equator than other places, the climate will vary.

The Andes mountain range is divided into three natural regions. First, is the south, second the central region, and third, the northern region. In the southern region, temperatures are much colder because of the mountains being closer to the Antarctic. The northern region has temperatures quite hot due to the mountain range being so much closer to the equator. However, the humidity is high in the northern ranges so it can be sticky.

The Andes Mountains also boast some incredible rainforests. Because there is so much rain, everything remains incredibly green. Typically, when people visit the Andes Mountains, they will head to the northern region because it is far more beautiful and temperatures are so much more pleasant but some people prefer the colder, more rustic side seen in the southern region. If you make your way to the central region of the Andes Mountains, the weather tends to be milder due to the neutral location. This too is a beautiful part of the mountain range to consider.

Interestingly, the Puya Raimondii, which is the largest herb on the planet, grows in the central region, which is able to survive and thrive at elevations of 13,000 feet! The leaves grow out from one stem, meaning the moisture runs from the leaves to the plant’s base so that during times of drought, the plant survives. You will find that a large number of the plants growing in the Andes stay small, which is the natural process for conserving needed energy. Therefore, plants are often stiff but strong, helping them survive the cold winter months.

Additionally, the Andes are the place to see a wide variety of birds. The condor, flamingo, Hillstar hummingbird, and Andean flicker all live in the region or Peru. Other things to enjoy include the red perll, llamas, the mountain lion, the speckled bear, Andean iguana, and the giant toad. Unfortunately, with logging on the rise, some areas of the Andes have been damaged, meaning the animals no longer have shelter or food. Even with a few challenges, when visiting Peru, you must take time to see the Andes Mountains, which are truly spectacular.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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