South America

South America is a true record-breaker, boasting the Amazon, the largest rainforest in the world; the Angel Falls, the highest waterfall; and the driest place on Earth, the Atacama Desert. The continent’s rivers and lush rainforests support a diverse range of plant, bird, amphibian and mammal species. The culture of Latin America, whilst unique, is strongly influenced by the Portuguese and Spanish.

South America is rich in music and dance, notably tango and salsa, best experienced at the plentiful carnivals on offer here. For mouth-watering steak and the best polo matches in the world, head to Argentina. For golden beaches, try Brazil. For amazing wine and spectacular glaciers, go to Chile. And these suggestions are just the tip of the iceberg.

Argentina, one of South America's largest countries, runs from the tropics to Tierra del Fuego and from the Andes to the Atlantic Ocean. Argentina offers an immensely rewarding diversity of experiences, from epic glaciers in Patagonia to passionate tango dances in Buenos Aires, and from thundering jungle waterfalls to flamingo-filled saltpans and gorgeous wine estancias.

Landlocked in the heart of South America, Bolivia has the world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca, and its highest capital city, La Paz, in which the rich indigenous heritage soon becomes apparent. Bolivia, with its Amazonian and Andean landscapes, colonial towns, Jesuit missions, and the famous Salar de Uyuni and desert southwest, is a land of astonishing natural beauty.

Brazil, South America's largest country, is home to stunning beaches, vast stretches of lush Amazon rainforest, the wildlife-rich Pantanal wetlands, mighty Iguassu falls and the vibrant cities of Rio de Janeiro and Salvador that explode with colour during carnival season. These are just a few of the reasons why Brazil is currently seen as one of the coolest places to go on the planet.

Chile is a land of startling contrasts and stunning natural scenery, with opportunities for memorable adventures and sophisticated luxury. From the majestic Andean landscapes of Patagonia to the lush wine lands of the central valley and the Atacama Desert in the north, as well as the mysterious stone statues of Easter Island, Chile offers a marvellously varied range of holiday experiences.

In Colombia it’s hard not to be seduced by the breathtaking landscapes, the beautiful colonial architecture, and the creativity and warmth of the people. Colombia is one of the most undiscovered countries in Latin America, with a wealth of attractions from the vibrant, culture-rich city of Cartagena and its capital Bogota to beautiful coffee estates ideal for some gentle exploration.

Ecuador, straddling the equator on South America's Pacific coast, is a land of impressive volcanoes, picturesque colonial towns, colourful markets, and the lush Amazon rainforest. A cruise or land-based stay in the Galapagos Islands is the highlight of any visit, and offers a unique opportunity to come face to face with an astonishing array of friendly endemic wildlife.

Peru is one of South America's most enthralling destinations with a thriving culture and spellbinding scenery. Discover the ancient Inca masterpiece of Machu Picchu, explore Cuzco's treasures and the Sacred Valley, wonder at immense Lake Titicaca, fly over the Nazca Lines in the desert or float down an Amazonian tributary while macaws screech overhead. Peru has a myriad of adventures that await.

Uruguay, located across the River Plate from Buenos Aires, is a relatively undiscovered country with a rich colonial heritage, authentic estancia hospitality and, on its Atlantic coast, superb wild beaches and some very special accommodation options. Its gently pastoral scenery, strong traditions and delicious cuisine make Uruguay a wonderfully rewarding place to visit.

Venezuela, on South America's Caribbean coast, is home to scenery on an epic scale. In the north are the white sand beaches of Los Roques, colonial Andean towns and the wildlife-rich Llanos, while the south is home to the Angel Falls - the world's tallest, undisturbed rainforest where indigenous tribes still live, and flat-topped tepuis that tower above the savannahs.