Inspirational Itineraries

Ecuador contains nearly every ecosystem imaginable on the planet within a relatively small country. Visits can include cloud forest, Andean Highlands, historic haciendas, remote indigenous communities, volcanoes, Amazon Jungle and colonial cities. No Ecuador trip is complete without a visit to the famed and beautiful Galapagos Islands, one of the few places left on the planet where the footprint of humanity is minimal and a perfect laboratory for evolution with abundant animal species.

Home to ancient civilizations, vast archeological marvels in unbelievable settings, vibrant indigenous cultures, and natural wonders spanning from unspoiled Amazon rainforest to towering Andean peaks, Peru inspires awe at every turn. Throw in diverse and delectable food and remarkably friendly people, and it’s no wonder why Peru is a traveler favorite.

Along, narrow sliver of land clinging to the edge of the South American continent, Chile’s diversity of travel experiences matches its jaw-dropping geography and landscapes. Encompassing the world’s driest desert, fertile vineyards, cosmopolitan Santiago and eclectic Valparaiso, lush temperate rainforests of the Lakes Region and down to the peaks of Patagonia, this country pinched between Pacific shores and Andean peaks unveils incredible natural beauty and cultural intrigue at every turn.

High peaks of the Andes give way to awe-inspiring glacial lakes, acclaimed vineyards, endless vistas of pampas, and iconic Patagonian wilderness; this is Argentina. The thunderous Perito Moreno Glacier in the south and the immense Iguazú Falls in the north continue Argentina’s extensive list of natural wonders. A place where gaucho cowboys preserve the traditions of the estancias, and Argentine barbecue asados are prepared with pride and devoured in bliss. Soccer fans shout, and the bold flavors of Argentine wine mix with the European-influenced stately buildings in the bustling streets of Buenos Aires.

Antarctica travel is both inspiring and rewarding; gaze up at magnificent icebergs, explore little-known islands, and experience the incredible wealth of untamed wildlife. The best way to see Antarctica and surrounding area is by way of boat and other adventure activities like kayaking and/or ice-hiking. See various penguin species including chinstrap, Gentoo, and Adélie. Experience the awe-inspiring king penguin rookeries of South Georgia, the “Galapagos of the Poles,” as well as the incredible abundance of wildlife in the unique and diverse archipelagos of the Southern Ocean.

A country often overlooked when planning South American adventures, Bolivia is a land of extremes, from beautifully desolate salt flats to thick jungles, from mining communities to weaving meccas, and oftentimes perched high above sea level, nestled amongst the Andes Mountains. Few other places offer such extreme natural wonder and rich local and colonial cultures, you’ll often feel as if you’ve gone back in time to another world. Take in the history, flavors and cultures of Bolivian cities like Potosi, Sucre and La Paz, alongside some truly otherworldly environments.

A vast country comprising nearly half of South America, Brazil holds some of the world’s most magnificent wonders: spot jaguar and howler monkeys in the Pantanal, feel the mist from the largest waterfall system in the world at Iguazú Falls, swap stories with local fisherman as you bob through the crystalline waters in the lesser-visited Costa Verde, and sip a caipirinha at a local haunt along the Ipanema boardwalk in Rio de Janeiro. With adventures as diverse and extraordinary as Brazil is big, you’ll be sure to have the trip of a lifetime.

One of the most biodiverse countries in the world, Colombia is a country that truly brings magical realism to life. Relax on untouched Caribbean beaches while enjoying a cocada, learn a coffee farmer’s story as you hike through his groves, and embrace Colombia’s love of dance as you salsa the night away. From colonial villages nestled high in the Andes, to breathtaking views of the Chicamocha Canyon, to birdwatching in the jungle, Colombia has it all. Come experience the joy, resilience, and radiance of this undiscovered gem.

A small country of only 3.5 million people and often overlooked, Uruguay is an exciting destination to explore and discover, from beautiful countrysides and beaches to fascinating cities and towns. Travel to the north and relax in the rolling hills and family-run vineyards of Carmelo; or stroll through the cobblestoned streets of Colonia. Jump into the thriving city of Montevideo to experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of this charming colonial capital; or explore the less traveled and wilder eastern Atlantic shores for hiking, wineries, horseback riding, and more. Despite its small size, Uruguay offers a wide variety of experiences that make a perfect addition to any South American adventure.