Captivating South America – Lima to Rio De Janeiro

Lima, the capital of Peru, lies on the country’s arid Pacific coast. Though its colonial center is preserved, it’s a bustling metropolis and one of South America’s largest cities. It’s home to the Museo Larco collection of pre-Columbian art and the Museo de la Nación, tracing the history of Peru’s ancient civilizations. The Plaza de Armas and the 16th-century cathedral are the heart of old Lima Centro.

Wander through this entrancing fishing village at the edge of the desert; it rains only once every 25 years. Marvel at the Nazca Lines, geoglyphs carved into the desert floor by pre-Incan societies, over 300 figural drawings that remain virtually undamaged through the centuries.

“”

“”

Nestled between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean, energetic Santiago de Chile offers surprising discoveries with its renovated arts scene, expansive museums and noteworthy restaurants you won’t want to miss. Take in the outstanding views of this cosmopolitan capital by biking or hiking up one of its many gorgeous hills. Visit the Plaza de Armas – Santiago’s Original City Center – where you’ll be able to see a wealth of historical buildings and grand architecture. Or get a glimpse into the private and professional life of the poet and Nobel Prize winner Pablo Neruda by visiting one of his homes, all three of which have been converted into museums.

“”

Enjoy the Bavarian ambiance of the Lake District as you visit the edge of the Patagonian wilderness, seeing pristine wood forests, vast lakes, soaring waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and spectacular vistas.

Experience a bit of rugged Patagonia with a drive into the Andes Mountains through a stunning valley to the Rio Simpson National Reserve and the town of Coyhaique. Or visit the magnificent private Aikén del Sur Park with its many waterfalls, wetlands, forests and mosses.

Laguna San Rafael National Park is in Patagonia on southern Chile’s Pacific coast. It’s known for the San Rafael Glacier, part of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. San Rafael Lake has floating blocks of ice that have broken off from the glacier. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including marine otters, sea lions, black-necked swans and condors. The Andean peak Mount San Valentín towers above the park.

“”

“”

Explore the town and its history and enjoy stunning views over the Strait of Magellan to fabled Tierra del Fuego. Discover the scenic Patagonian countryside and visit a local sheep farm. The highlight is the Magellanic penguin rookery at Otway Sound. Or fly to Chile’s magnificent Torres Del Paine National Park.

Witness the spectacular beauty of Tierra del Fuego’s lakes, lush forests, soaring mountains and flora and fauna by train, via all-terrain vehicle or on horseback. Enjoy the expansive views from Garibaldi Pass and watch for sea lions and albatross along the Beagle Channel.

“”

“”

“”

“”

“”

Discover this quaint town, its cathedral, authentic English pubs, neat gardens, war memorials and fascinating landscape. Set off for an adventure on this South Atlantic island and visit a penguin colony and watch for albatross and skuas or go to a sprawling sheep farm.

“”

“”

Spend the day enjoying this beautiful, chic beach resort, its marinas and interesting shops. See amazing works by Dali, Chagall and Miro at the Ralli Museum. Or venture into the equally stunning countryside and visit a cattle station. Shopping:

Discover this elegant city and its beautiful surroundings with a tranquil cruise through the Tigre Delta past islands, mansions and English gardens. Visit the pampas and watch gauchos display their extraordinary horsemanship, or enjoy a fabulous tango show in its birthplace.

Discover this elegant city and its beautiful surroundings with a tranquil cruise through the Tigre Delta past islands, mansions and English gardens. Visit the pampas and watch gauchos display their extraordinary horsemanship, or enjoy a fabulous tango show in its birthplace.

Discover this elegant city and its beautiful surroundings with a tranquil cruise through the Tigre Delta past islands, mansions and English gardens. Visit the pampas and watch gauchos display their extraordinary horsemanship, or enjoy a fabulous tango show in its birthplace.

Explore this charming, cosmopolitan city of parks and colonial architecture. Visit a local vineyard and sample its wines. Or travel to the beautiful Portuguese colonial city of Colonia del Sacramento, first settled in 1680.

Explore this charming, cosmopolitan city of parks and colonial architecture. Visit a local vineyard and sample its wines. Or travel to the beautiful Portuguese colonial city of Colonia del Sacramento, first settled in 1680.

“”

Originally founded in the early 18th century, Itajai really started to develop during the mid-19th century when Santa Catarina state began to receive waves of European immigrants who generated business for the port. Towards the close of that century, the town itself received a considerable influx of Italian, German and Polish immigrants, whose descendants now make up the bulk of the population. Neat countryside farms and the distinct European architecture seen in towns such as Blumenau never fail to amaze visitors to this southern part of Brazil.

Journey inland to vibrant São Paulo and see its modern skyscrapers and monuments and visit the beautiful art museum. Or explore charming Santos and its extraordinary botanical garden, including an orchidarium with over 100 flower species and an aviary alive with macaws, toucans and parrots. Take a scenic drive to Guaruja and visit the resort town’s fascinating aquarium.

Savor this gem of a historic town with its beautifully preserved Portuguese colonial architecture, charming narrow streets, imposing fort and exquisite churches. Enjoy a leisurely schooner cruise through this group of lush islands past quaint fishing villages and pristine beaches. Stop at a beach to swim, snorkel or just relax.

Enjoy exploring this beautiful island, hiking its trails, kayaking, snorkeling, diving to spectacular sites or simply relaxing on its gorgeous beaches. Savor the dense tropical forest with its diversity of birds, flowers, iguanas, monkeys and myriad wildlife found in this protected reserve.

Considered the St. Tropez of Brazil, Buzios boasts a cosmopolitan style reminiscent of the French Riviera. Sunbathe at one of the twenty beaches, including Azeda Beach with its calm and crystal-clear waters. Horseback riding, fishing, diving and catamaran cruises are also popular. Take a walking tour of the Emerências Reserve, where you’ll find exotic plants, bromeliads and even the last golden lion tamarin monkeys in the region. At the Tauá Reserve, see more than 300 species of butterflies and 60 types of birds.

Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for its renowned view. Ride the cog railway through dense forest to Corcovado. Visit the lush botanical gardens, see famed Ipanema and Copacabana beaches and take in a thrilling samba show.

Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for its renowned view. Ride the cog railway through dense forest to Corcovado. Visit the lush botanical gardens, see famed Ipanema and Copacabana beaches and take in a thrilling samba show.