South America
β°οΈ Mountains π΄ Jungles ποΈ Deserts π Temples π§ Icelands
South America is a land of contrasts, with equatorial rainforests and snow-capped mountains, thriving modern cities and ruins of ancient civilization. Spend days or weeks in multiple countries to experience the culture, beauty and excitement across the continent.
Enjoy modern art and architecture and historic indigenous and European roots in one of the worldβs great cities, Buenos Aires, capital of Argentina. Practice your Spanish and watch a tango, with a timeless expression of emotion via dance. For outdoor excitement, hike and ski in the jagged mountains of Tierra del Fuego and Patagonia, the region that includes parts of Argentina and Chile.
Brazil occupies nearly half the continent. Its Atlantic beaches include Rio de Janeiroβs famous Ipanema as well as less celebrated gems, such asBaia do Sancho and Lopes Mendes. Inland, the mighty Amazon River offers rainforest trekking, whitewater adventures and ecotourism. Surprisingly deep in the rainforest, the Renaissance opera house built in Manaus in the late 1800s now hosts a philharmonic orchestra. Watch soccer in the country where PelΓ©, Ronaldo and other great football players were born.
Explore history at the Jesuit ruins of La SantΓsima Trinidad de ParanΓ‘ in Paraguay, pre-Columbian ruins in El Fuerte de Samaipata in Bolivia, the walled early colonial city of Cartagena in Colombia and the high-altitude fortress of the Incas in Machu Picchu, Peru.
Exceptional natural experiences abound. Brazilβs Chapada Diamantina National Park features mountains and waterfalls. Lake Titicaca lies high in the Andes Mountains between Peru and Bolivia. Venezuelaβs Angel Falls drops an incredible distance. Stand with your feet on either side of the equator in Ecuador and see if you feel dizzy.
Appreciate the mix of culture, tradition, music, costumes and food from Quechua, GuaranΓ and hundreds of other indigenous peoples throughout the region. South American food specialties include Argentine beef with a delicious dessert of flan with a sweet dulce de leche syrup. In Brazil, eat all you want at a churrascaria with a dozen varieties of meat. Accompany your meal with a caipirinha made from a spirit distilled from sugar cane. Have feijoada, the Brazilian black bean stew served every Sunday.
History, nature and culture come alive in South America. Enjoy interacting with the warm people of the continent throughout the year. Visit for the special celebration of Carnaval in the spring.
Brazil
Unrivalled natural scenery, countless beaches and an irresistible party atmosphere make this one of South Americaβs most picturesque and exciting countries.
A diverse and exciting travel destination known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and iconic landmarks such as Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer statue and the Amazon rainforest.
Colombia
Rolling mountains, verdant jungles, tropical islands, colonial cities and welcoming locals make this South American country an extraordinary travel destination.
Known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and colonial architecture, with must-see destinations such as the Caribbean coast, the Andean region, and the Amazon rainforest, making it a perfect destination for adventure, culture and relaxation.
Argentina
This huge South American country is famous for spectacular waterfalls, the glorious Andes mountain range, wine, tango and the captivating city of Buenos Aires.
A diverse and fascinating travel destination, known for its rich culture, tango music, delicious cuisine, and iconic landmarks such as the Iguazu Falls, The Andes and the capital city Buenos Aires, which offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and urban life.
Ecuador
From wildlife-packed islands to cities overlooked by soaring mountain peaks to chaotic yet colorful outdoor crafts markets, Ecuador never fails to thrill.Β
Ecuador is a small country known for its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and natural beauty, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the Galapagos Islands, the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes mountains, and charming colonial cities such as Quito and Cuenca, making it a perfect destination for adventure, culture, and nature lovers.
Peru
Experience fascinating ruins, bustling cities, magnificent landscapes, wild rivers and the Amazon jungle in the birthplace of the Inca Empire.
Chile
Explore deserts, mountain lakes, volcanoes, ski slopes and trekking routes in one of South Americaβs most varied and adventure-filled countries.
Uruguay
South Americaβs hidden gem has a historic capital and colonial towns, sprawling countryside, exclusive beach resorts and bohemian surf spots.
Bolivia
This landlocked South American country is a destination of remarkable geographical diversity and varied wildlife, as well as fascinating colonial heritage and indigenous cultures.
Highlights
The Andes
Canaima National Park β its main attraction is the Angel Falls, at 978m the highest waterfall on Earth
The Pantanal
Cities
BogotΓ‘ β a city of contrasts with a hectic balance between the new and the old; the most cultural-minded of South American capitals
Buenos Aires β the city of tango, the most cosmopolitan city of Argentina
Caracas β one of the most cosmopolitan and modern cities in South America, there are lots of theatres, malls, museums, art galleries, parks, well-conserved colonial architecture and even gastronomic restaurants
La Paz β the highest national capital in the world that is built in a canyon
Lima β a curious mix of modernity, large but orderly slum areas, and colonial architecture
Montevideo β the pleasant capital city of Uruguay, situated on the east bank of the Rio de la Plata
Rio de Janeiro β famous for its breathtaking landscape, its laidback beach culture and its annual carnival
Santiago de Chile β capital of Chile with many museums, events, theatres, restaurants, bars and other entertainment and cultural opportunities
SΓ£o Paulo β a beehive of activity that offers a jovial nightlife and a diverse cultural experience