CHILE: Visit Argentina’s western neighbor and trek across the arid Atacama Desert of the north to explore fabled ghost towns and lagoons. Sail along the picturesque Lake District of the south, passing distant Andean volcanos and embracing the charm of Puerto Montt. Southern stops in Puerto Natales and Punta Arenas facilitate mountainous hikes and frigid arctic cruises. The capital of Santiago is home to museums and palaces, while Viña del Mar and Valparaiso host a plethora of beaches, ports, and vibrant neighborhoods. Easter Island is a cultural gem in the Pacific Ocean, tempting travelers to uncover the mystique of stone-carved moai.

PERU: From the floating islands of Lake Titicaca to the thick Amazon jungles of Iquitos, Peru is a nation overflowing with colonial charm and the ever-present spirit of the ancient Incan empire. Tour the museums and cathedrals of Lima before venturing southeast to Cusco, where exquisite chapels compete with unforgotten ruins of powerful indigenous tribes. Board a local train to explore the ruins of Sacred Valley and the treasures of Pisac Market. Arrive to Machu Picchu and discover the sacred granite fortress of the Incas!

 

BRAZIL: The vast neighboring nation of Brazil is more than just a soccer haven. Endless coastlines and lush jungles make this Portuguese-speaking nation an international attraction. Visit vibrant Rio de Janeiro and stroll along the picturesque beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. A rendezvous in Rio requires a visit to the towering Cristo Redentor statue and a tour atop the Sugar Loaf monolith via cable car. Other popular cities include the modern metropolis of Sao Paulo in southeastern Brazil, as well as the cultural gem of Salvador-Bahia in the northeast with its deep colonial and African roots. Jungle excursions alongside pink dolphins and caymans are available in Manaus, though a trip to the thunderous Foz de Iguacu waterfalls might be a bit more casual.

URUGUAY: East of Buenos Aires lies the quaint and charismatic nation of Uruguay. Quick hydrofoil excursions across Rio de La Plata introduce travelers to the cobblestone streets and fortress ruins of Colonia del Sacramento, a former Portuguese battalion first founded in 1680. Punta del Este is an exclusive beach resort with pristine beaches and upscale resorts. Founded in 1726, the capital of Montevideo is an eclectic metropolis filled with museums and monuments depicting strong colonial ties.