Countries in South America

There are 12 sovereign countries in South America and several major territories. The independent nations include Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Additionally, French Guiana remains an overseas department of France, while the Falkland Islands and South Georgia are British Overseas Territories.

Brazil is the largest country in South America by both land area and total population. It covers approximately 8.5 million km² (3.3 million sq mi), which represents nearly 50 percent of the entire continent. With over 217 million residents, Brazil also serves as the dominant economic force within the South American region.

Spanish and Portuguese are the primary languages spoken across the South American continent. While Spanish is the official language in the majority of nations, Portuguese is the sole official language of Brazil, the most populous country. Other significant languages include English in Guyana, Dutch in Suriname, and various indigenous tongues.

Mercosur is a major sub-regional economic bloc and customs union established to promote free trade and the fluid movement of goods, people, and currency. The full members currently include Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia. This alliance facilitates economic integration and political cooperation among the largest economies in the region.

Mount Aconcagua is the highest point in South America, reaching an elevation of 6,961 m (22,838 ft). Located in the Andes mountain range within Argentina, it is the highest peak outside of Asia and the tallest mountain in both the Southern and Western Hemispheres. It is a major destination for climbers.

Bolivia and Paraguay are the only two landlocked countries in South America, lacking direct access to any ocean. Despite this, both nations maintain access to international trade routes through river systems, particularly the Paraguay-Paraná Waterway. Bolivia is the larger of the two and currently manages its maritime interests through various transit agreements.