Geography of Latin America

Latin America

Includes Mexico, Central America, Caribbean Islands, and South America, covering 8 million square miles.

Vertical Climate Zones

Different climate zones in Latin America defined by elevation change from sea level to high altitudes.

Tierra Caliente

Hot land zone from sea level to 2,500 feet, characterized by tropical rainforests and deserts.

Tierra Templada

Temperate land zone between 2,500 and 6,000 feet, featuring evergreens and savannas.

Tierra Fria

Cold land zone from 6,500 to 10,000 feet, where frosts are common in winter.

Mexican Plateau

A region of grasslands and volcanic soil useful for farming located between mountain ranges in Northern Mexico.

Panama Canal

An artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans across the Isthmus of Panama.

Greater Antilles

The larger islands of the Caribbean, including Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico.

Andes Mountains

A major mountain range in South America, 4,500 miles long, stretching along the western edge.

Amazon River

The largest river by discharge volume of water in the world, and the second longest, located in South America.

Lake Titicaca

A high-altitude lake at 12,500 feet on the border of Peru and Bolivia, significant for early civilization.

Atacama Desert

A desert located in the rain shadow of the Andes, known for its extremely low rainfall.

Cape Horn

The southernmost tip of Tierra del Fuego, often referred to as a significant maritime landmark.

What is the largest country in South America by area?

Brazil is the largest country in South America by area.

Which mountain range runs along the western edge of South America?

The Andes mountain range runs along the western edge of South America.

What is the name of the river that is the second longest in the world and flows through South America?

The Amazon River is the second longest river in the world and flows through South America.

Which desert is located in northern Chile and is considered one of the driest places on Earth?

The Atacama Desert is located in northern Chile and is one of the driest places on Earth.

What is the capital city of Argentina?

The capital city of Argentina is Buenos Aires.

Which large lake is located between Bolivia and Peru?

Lake Titicaca is the large lake located between Bolivia and Peru.

What is the predominant climate zone in the Amazon rainforest?

The predominant climate zone in the Amazon rainforest is tropical.