The spirit of Latin America is one that is really worth exploring while on a visit to South America, and while there are some stunning sights and superb beaches, it is well worth putting time aside to learn about the culture too. These cultural experiences are often social occasions where locals and tourists can mix, and by joining these activities you not only learn about the culture and history of each country, but can also make new friends too. For those looking for ideas about cultural experiences they can try, here are five suggestions that will provide a real insight into the history and society of each country.

1. Taking Salsa Lessons In Colombia

Colombia has long been a country that has been avoided by some travelers, but with an improved political and security situation over recent years, the real Colombia and its culture is opening up once again to international visitors. The city of Medellin is at the heart of the Salsa scene in Colombia, hosting an annual international Salsa festival, but there are cities and towns across the country that offer dance lessons to visitors. The basic steps of Salsa dancing can often be learned fairly quickly, but it is a dance that can take a long time to master, and it is a great way to gain a new understanding for the passionate people of Colombia.

2. Learning To Cook Peruvian Cuisine

With a diverse terrain that ranges from the jungles of the Amazon to the high mountains of the Andes and the coastal areas in the west of the country, Peruvian cuisine is one that offers a fascinating blend of traditional Inca dishes and makes good use of the variety of ingredients available. Learning to cook the dishes of Peruvian cuisine will not only expand your culinary repertoire, but will also offer an idea of how the locals work with the ingredients on offer. With Lima at the heart of the country and attracting the best produce from across the region, it is one of the best places to join a Peruvian cooking class.

3. Experience Carnaval

One of the most important cultural events in the Brazilian calendar happens in February every year, and whether you are in the grandest event of all in Rio, or in any of the many towns and cities that host a carnaval event, it is definitely an idea to see if you can join in. Potential roles can include dancing or being part of a float, or even helping to prepare the costumes and floats for the big parade. This is usually best for solo travelers who have time to spend in the community in the weeks prior to the event, however, those who are just in Brazil for a shorter period can still enjoy the wonderful carnaval celebrations.

4. Spend A Day Working At A Chilean Vineyard

Chilean wine has become one of the most popular in the world, and there are vineyards along much of the country growing a variety of different types of grape to produce their excellent wines. One of the best cultural experiences in Chile is to join the staff of the vineyard for a day of work and wine tasting, with the day offering an interesting look at the process, from raising the grapes through to the production of the wine. 

5. Join The Uruguayan Gauchos For A Day Of Cattle Herding

The small nation of Uruguay is a lush and fertile land that lies out on the east coast of South America, and is known for being the country with the highest beef consumption in the world. Becoming a gaucho for the day is a great way to meet the locals and to see this interesting cowboy culture that has developed here and in Argentina. The day will usually begin early and include plenty of horse riding and moving the cattle, and will usually culminate with a hearty meal allowing you to taste the wonderful produce that is so beloved of the Uruguayans.