If South America Isn’t on Your List Yet, It Should Be
Come for the ancient magic of Machu Picchu in Peru, and stay to discover the extraordinary diversity across South America’s eleven other countries. With minimal time difference for North American travelers, every corner of the continent invites discovery. Travelers are often surprised by how seamlessly one journey can include both dynamic cities and untouched natural landscapes/expansive wilderness.
Stop at the blinding white salt flats of Bolivia, where after rainfall the mirrored reflection of the sky creates an otherworldly scene. Continue south to the glaciers and craggy peaks of Patagonia in Chile and Argentina, a region that belongs on every traveler’s list. Balance these natural wonders with cultural immersion in Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires, where the rhythm of the tango fills the streets and a parrilla steakhouse pairs perfectly with a glass of Malbec. Round out your journey with the thundering beauty of Iguazú Falls, a natural wonder straddling the border with Brazil.
The romance of Rio de Janeiro doesn’t fade after February’s Carnival. Dance samba in the streets year-round, walk the shorelines of the famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, or hike into the surrounding hills. My favorite is the Pico da Tijuca; from its highest point, the views of the city below are spectacular.
A river cruise along the Amazon is one of the most luxurious ways to admire the wildlife and experience this lush wonder of the world. Sailings depart from Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador, each offering a unique perspective on the rainforest’s extraordinary biodiversity. Colombia is also emerging as a new river cruise destination, with itineraries along the Magdalena River between Cartagena and Barranquilla.
If the mysterious stone figures of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) are something you’ve always wanted to see, make this the year you go. It’s a long way to reach this island in the eastern Pacific, but I can help you plan a seamless journey that makes every mile worthwhile. Pair your visit with other Chilean adventures, such as the Atacama Desert, which will surprise you with its color, star-filled skies, and luxurious eco-lodges that defy expectations.