The Americas
South America
The most extraordinary continent on earth — ancient civilisations, unmatched wilderness, and a warmth of spirit that is entirely its own.
12+
TastesOf Reviews
Oct–April
Best Season
The Americas
Region
At a Glance
The Essentials
What to Do
Defining Experiences
Machu Picchu, Peru
The Inca citadel set high in the Andes above the Sacred Valley is one of the world's great archaeological wonders. Arrive at dawn before the clouds lift to see the ruins in their full, extraordinary context. The Inca Trail — four days through mountain passes and cloud forest — remains one of the world's great treks.
The Amazon Basin
The world's largest tropical rainforest spans nine countries and contains ten percent of all species on earth. Luxury river cruises along the Amazon and its tributaries — spotting pink dolphins, giant otters, and macaws — offer an immersion in wilderness that has no equal anywhere.
Iguazú Falls, Argentina & Brazil
Wider than Niagara, taller than Victoria Falls, and more powerful than either — Iguazú is the greatest waterfall system on earth. The Devil's Throat, where fourteen falls converge in a thundering horseshoe of mist and spray, is one of the most overwhelming natural spectacles in the world.
Patagonia — Torres del Paine & Los Glaciares
The granite towers of Torres del Paine and the advancing wall of Perito Moreno glacier define the southern extreme of the continent. The W Trek, multi-day kayaking through the fjords, and estancia life under the Southern Cross are experiences that stay with you for life.
The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Darwin's laboratory — where blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises evolved in isolation and show no fear of humans. Luxury expedition cruises through the archipelago offer an intimacy with wildlife found nowhere else on earth.
Cartagena, Colombia
The walled colonial city on Colombia's Caribbean coast — with its candy-coloured buildings, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and extraordinary seafood — is one of the most beautiful cities in the Americas. The Rosario Islands, a short boat ride away, offer coral reefs and clear Caribbean water.
Where to Stay
Recommended Properties
Awasi Patagonia
Ultra-Luxury LodgeEight private villas in Torres del Paine, each with a dedicated guide and vehicle. The most exclusive and personalised experience in Patagonia — and one of the finest lodges in the world.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Boutique Eco-LodgeA collection of casitas set within a cloud forest reserve at the foot of Machu Picchu. The orchid garden, the spectacled bear sanctuary, and the guided dawn walk to the ruins make this the definitive base for the Sacred Valley.
Belmond Copacabana Palace, Rio
Grand HotelThe grande dame of Rio de Janeiro — a white Edwardian palace on Copacabana Beach with a pool that has appeared in more photographs than any other in South America. The rooftop bar at sunset, with Sugarloaf in the distance, is one of the great hotel moments.
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