The 5 Cutest South America Animals You Have to Meet

The Cutest Animals in South America

South America is the fourth largest continent in the world, meaning there is an enormous amount of space for adorable animals to roam. In Ecuador, fur seals lounge on white-sand beaches in the Galapagos. If you’re in Brazil, spot colorful toucans are perched in the trees and shy Jaguars are hidden behind trees in the rainforest. While in Peru, see llamas and alpacas. In Antarctica, go trekking and see penguins hopping in the snow. Follow along as we discuss the cutest South America animals below!

1. Sea Lions in the Galapagos

There are about 50,000 Galapagos Sea Lions spread across the islands. When they aren’t in the water, catch these snuggly creatures sunbathing (or sleeping) on a Galapagos Island or Isla de la Plata. These heavily protected, playful animals are a joy to watch. Tourists love observing and taking photos of the sea lions while walking the beach.

Some dive deep underwater alongside these passionate swimmers and see a whole new type of life underwater.  You don’t need to worry much about the travel season because Galapagos Sea Turtles can be seen all year round. What are you waiting for? Head to the Galapagos Islands now!

2. River Dolphins in the Amazon

The Amazon River Dolphin (also known as Boto) can be seen swimming in the Amazon River as early as the spring season. These dolphins are tourist-friendly as they display a wide smile, cheerful demeanor, and a pink exterior! Traditional Amazon River Dolphins are the largest of the four river dolphin species and can reach up to eight feet long and 450 pounds. Visit the Amazon Rainforest and see for yourself what large, magical creatures the Amazon River Dolphins are.

3. Penguins in Antarctica

What comes to mind when you think about Antarctica? Glaciers? Cruises? What about penguins? Travelers around the world are getting more and more excited to hop aboard an Antarctica Cruise and walk with the penguins. After all, seven of the 17 species of penguins can be found on the Great White Continent. These include the Adélie, Emperor, Chinstrap, Gentoo, King, Macaroni and the Rockhopper. See what makes each penguin different on a tour to Antarctica this season.

4. Llamas in Peru

One of the best things to do in Peru is to spot animals. Llamas are native to Peru, Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina. However, Peru holds the attention-throne when it comes to these furry animals. Llamas have become so synonymous with Peruvian culture that you can find some sort of llama souvenir or trinket anywhere in the country.

Though, who needs a souvenir when you can see them in person?! Seeing a llama in Peru is almost 100% guaranteed. Llamas can be seen grazing the surrounding terrain of Machu Picchu, walking the streets of Cusco and more. Travel to Lima and see for yourself! 

5. Marsh Deer in the Pantanal

The Marsh Deer is said to be the largest deer species from South America. You can find Marsh Deer in the Pantanal and Chaco regions, relaxing in the grass or hiding from predators in the dense vegetation. They are swift swimmers who love to take breaks to feed on grass, reeds and aquatic plant species. Marsh Deer can be seen on a Pantanal Tour, riding horseback through the marshy-terrain.

6. Capybaras just about everywhere

While some think Capybaras are just another rodent… we think they are the cutest! Capybaras live east of the Andes on Central and South American riverbanks. Ponds, lakes, marshes are their stomping ground. They are not only the world’s cutest rodents but also the world’s largest. Capybaras can reach up to 4 feet in length and weigh up to 145 pounds or more! See these adorable, large creatures on a South America nature tour or in a couple of destinations around South America.