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South America is fast becoming a hot spot for travellers with several South American countries reporting strong growth in the number of Australians heading their way.

The Tourism Authority of Chile reported the number of Australians visiting was up 10.8% in 2016, reaching 50,968, with figures expected to grow again this year by at least 10%.

Visitation to Peru in 2016 was also a record high according to PROMPERU, with Australians accounting for over 42,000 arrivals into the Andean nation. This translated into a 3.1% increase from 2015.

PROMPERU Australia representative Samantha Dalla said Australians were visiting Peru in droves in search of the historic land-marks and culture the country had to offer.

“Australians are principally drawn to Peru to visit the Incan Citadel and World Wonder of Machu Picchu,” Dalla said. “In search of authentic experiences off the beaten track, however, lesser-known regions such as Chachapoyas are gaining popularity among Aussies.”

Contours Travel director Ted Dziadkiewicz said the numbers were likely to continue to grow in 2018 with Contours already reporting strong bookings for next year, especially with a good exchange rate for prospective travellers.

“The Aussie dollar is strong and Latin America offers so much more value,” Dziadkiewicz said. “A luxury hotel in Buenos Aires, for instance, can be up to 50% cheaper than the equivalent in Europe.

“More clients are also asking for off-the-beaten-track experiences beyond the icon attractions,” he said.

Chimu Adventures co-founder Greg Carter said business had been booming for South America sales and he expected new air routes to make the destination even more attractive.

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