Color me jealous. South America has some amazing terrain, some of the greatest natural wonders in this world, unfortunely large swathes of it aren't very safe. My GF is from Venezuela, northern shore on the Caribbean, southern reaches contain Angel Falls and numerous other incredible places, but unfortunately her family flat out refuses to let me visit the country due to how volatile and dangerous it is right now, and how a white ginger with an Imperial (the US is "the empire" to them) accent might as well have a target on his forehead.
Its a real shame, because your right - it offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the world - however the political situation prevents one from exploring.
Im remaining positive though - the south American people are strong and super friendly - they will find a way :)