Geological Feature / Landform

The American Cordillera and the Continental Divide: A Geographical Backbone Shaping the Americas

The Continental Divide of the Americas is a remarkable geographical feature serving as the primary hydrological divide across the American continent. Stretching from the northernmost reaches of North America at the Bering Strait to the southernmost tip of South America at the Strait of Magellan, this divide delineates the watersheds that drain into the Pacific Ocean from those that flow into the Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

The Azuero Peninsula: Panama's Cultural Heartland and Ecological Haven

The Azuero Peninsula, jutting into the Pacific Ocean from southern Panama, is a region rich in cultural history and ecological diversity. Known as the "heartland" of Panamanian culture, it is where tradition, agriculture, and natural beauty converge. Despite its relatively small size, the peninsula is a mosaic of contrasting landscapes, ranging from dry forests and mangrove swamps to cultivated fields and small bustling towns. The region's unique blend of cultural heritage, agricultural history, and environmental significance makes it a captivating area.

The Baths of Virgin Gorda: A Geological Marvel in the British Virgin Islands

Nestled amidst the scenic island of Virgin Gorda, a gem within the British Virgin Islands, lies a natural wonder that mesmerizes visitors and evokes wonder – The Baths. This geological masterpiece, molded by the relentless forces of nature over millennia, presents an awe-inspiring labyrinth of monumental granite boulders, pristine pools, and hidden caves, inviting exploration and admiration of the raw beauty and power of the natural world.

The Borborema Plateau: Where Arid Landscapes and Diverse Ecosystems Converge

The Borborema Plateau, also known as the Serra da Borborema or Borborema Mountains, rises majestically in Brazil's northeastern region. This expansive and rugged plateau spans across the states of Alagoas, Pernambuco, Paraíba, and Rio Grande do Norte, forming the northeasternmost part of the Brazilian Highlands. It acts as a natural barrier against the moisture-laden winds coming from the Atlantic Ocean.

The Callejón de Huaylas: Peru's Valley of Eternal Snow

The Callejón de Huaylas is a spectacular inter-Andean valley in Peru's Ancash region, stretching from Laguna Conococha to Cañón del Pato. Positioned between the snow-capped Cordillera Blanca to the east and the darker Cordillera Negra to the west, this fertile valley follows the Santa River and supports diverse ecosystems across multiple altitudinal zones. Home to traditional agricultural communities cultivating potatoes, maize, and barley, the valley serves as the gateway to Huascarán National Park and world-class mountaineering destinations.

The Colca Canyon: Peru's Natural Wonder

Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains lies the enchanting Colca Valley, a place of unparalleled beauty and cultural richness. Deep within this valley, the Colca Canyon stands as a testament to nature's awe-inspiring power, carved over millennia by the relentless force of the Colca River. This magnificent canyon is one of the world's deepest and most breathtaking natural wonders.

The Cordillera Central and Pico Duarte: Guardians of Hispaniola's Natural Heritage

The Cordillera Central, stretching across the central part of Hispaniola, defines the Dominican Republic's landscape, influencing its terrain, climate, and biodiversity. Its rugged peaks and verdant valleys showcase the island's diverse natural heritage. Pico Duarte, the highest summit in the country, stands as an icon within this breathtaking landscape. Similarly, José Armando Bermúdez National Park reflects the nation's dedication to preserving its environmental legacy.

The Cordillera Septentrional: Dominican Republic's Northern Mountain Range

The Cordillera Septentrional, also known as the Northern Mountain Range, is a prominent geological and cultural feature in the Dominican Republic, shaping the landscape and livelihoods of those residing there. This mountain range, stretching in a northwest-southeast direction parallel to the northern coast, boasts rugged terrain characterized by steep slopes and lush valleys. The range is known for its rich biodiversity and is an important water source.

The Crystalline Expanse: Salinas Grandes and Argentina's High-Altitude Salt Desert

Stretching across the rugged landscape of northwestern Argentina like a frozen sea of white crystals, Salinas Grandes stands as one of South America's most spectacular natural phenomena. These vast salt flats represent the third-largest salt desert in South America and one of the most accessible high-altitude salars on the continent. The gleaming white expanse offers visitors an otherworldly experience that combines geological wonder with cultural significance, creating a destination that captivates scientists, photographers, and travelers.

The Enchanting Elqui Valley and Historic Pisco Elqui

The Elqui Valley, nestled in northern Chile, is a picturesque region that captures the essence of natural beauty and agricultural richness. Spanning the basin of the Elqui River, which originates in the western Andes Mountains and flows into the Pacific Ocean near La Serena, this valley is renowned for its stunning landscapes, bright sunshine, pure air, and clear skies. The Elqui Valley is recognized as northern Chile's most commercially viable wine-producing region.