Highlights of South America
From the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the sun-kissed beaches of Chile to the ancient land of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu - the wonders of South America set the stage for incredible adventures. This is a continent of lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, misty cloud forests, bone-dry deserts, red-rock canyons, ice-blue glaciers and sun-kissed beaches but it's also a land of ancient temples, cultural treasures, amazing cuisine and some of the world's greatest music. Our travel experts can help you plan your escape to South America. The only question is where will you go first?
Chile
Few destinations are as dramatic as Chile, a sliver of land bookended by the Andes and the Pacific. Here, salt flats meet snow-capped volcanoes, and bone-dry deserts give way to sprawling glaciers and sandy beaches. The variety of attractions here, from the sun-soaked metropolis of Santiago to first-rate vineyards, sprawling ranches, glittery resorts by the sea and the granite spires of Torres del Paine, will satisfy any type of traveler.
Top Highlights
- Explore the azure lakes, emerald forests, roaring rivers and the radiant blue glacier of Parque Nacional of Torres del Paine
- Indulge in world class bonefish, trout, and salmon fishing in the shadow of the snow-capped Andes
- Mountain bike, kayak, and hike among looming fjords.
- Explore red rock canyons, vast sand dunes, crystalline salt flats and hidden natural hot springs in the other-worldly terrain of Chile’s Atacama Desert
- Savor world-class Sangiovese, Pinot, and Shiraz wines at historic wineries in the Aconcagua and Colchagua valleys.
- Explore the old-world charm of Santiago and the rainbow colored seaside town of Valparaiso.
- Get up close and personal with the towering head statues of Easter Island
Peru
Although Machu Picchu remains Peru’s biggest draw, there is more to this country to explore. Spend time in charming Cusco, indulge in Lima's spectacular culinary scene, or cruise in luxury along the Amazon River, one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth.
Top Highlights
- Explore the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu and marvel at the staggering landscape of the lost Inca city.
- Explore Cusco - the gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley - for a wonderful introduction to Peru’s history from the reign of the Incas to the conquistadores.
- Discover Peruvian villages in the Sacred Valley
- Spend the day spotting wildlife from a dugout canoe on one of the Amazon's countless igarapés (narrow waterways) or travel in style aboard a luxury cruise.
- Indulge in internationally acclaimed dining in Lima, Peru's culinary capital
- After days of hiking around Machu Picchu take time to relax at a luxe hotel on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest elevation lake in the world.
Argentina
From the hypnotic energy of Buenos Aires to the thundering Iguazu Falls, Argentina offers a study in contrasts. Part rolling wine regions and jagged peaks, part passionate culture and tranquil coastlines, Argentina seduces with its diverse topography and spirit.
Top Highlights
- Hike, climb and fish in picture-perfect Bariloche surrounded by the soaring peaks of Cerros Catedral, López, Nireco and Shaihuenque
- Try your hand at the sultry Tango, the most famous dance of Argentina
- Wander the cobblestoned streets of Buenos Aires, the "Paris of South America"
- Sample a local Malbec, perhaps at one of the local parrillas, or grill houses
- Or spend a few days sampling your way through the world-renowned Mendoza wine region
- Join the passionate crowds of futbol (soccer) fans and cheer on the national team
- Feel the power of the thunderous Iguazu Falls from an inflatable raft at the bottom of the falls