South America

Few South American cities rival the charm of Buenos Aires. From Plaza de Mayo to the milongas of San Telmo’s cobbled streets, the city brims with history and culture. Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital rests on the Río de la Plata estuary. Far to the south, Ushuaia sits at the End of the World, a windswept gateway on South America’s southern tip and the edge of Tierra del Fuego.

Off the southeast tip of South America, the Falkland Islands are renowned as a wildlife haven – where fauna and flora of both glacial and tropical ecosystems come together to create a unique natural environment. Gentoo, Magellanic, Rockhopper and King penguins make their homes here, as do albatross, fur seals and whales. Explore human heritage in the islands’ only town when conditions permit in Port Stanley.

Uruguay’s rich culture comes alive in its capital of Montevideo, home to elegant 19th-century architecture, countless museums and bustling markets. A grilled barbecue feast and a tango show might be accompanied by local wines and craft beers, and be sure to try the ubiquitous national drink, an herbal tea called mate. Along the coast to the west lies the picturesque historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site, while modern glamour awaits in the luxe beach clubs of Punta del Este.

The Patagonian region of Chile is best explored on a polar-class yacht that can navigate the breathtaking fjords amid snow-clad peaks and launch Zodiac boats and kayaks for in-depth exploration. Witness the mesmerizing blue of Garibaldi Glacier, listen for the mighty crack of calving ice in Glacier Alley, and watch Magellanic penguins, elephant seals and dusky dolphins frolic in the Strait of Magellan. Towns like Punta Arenas lend a human element to the otherworldly scenery.