South America luxury cruises provide an ideal way to discover this fascinating continent. Captivating contrasts range from Machu Picchu, the plains of Patagonia, Rio de Janeiro’s renowned beaches and colonies of penguins nesting on remote islands.  Every port along your journey is sure to captivate you with an array of offerings as you explore vibrant cities and experience new adventures.

Due to the vast size of South America, many of its gems are located in its interior regions. In all of the countries you visit, a host of once-in-a-lifetime sights await you. Many of these wonders are accessible via tours which provide an easy way to see and experience many of them.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Llama at Machu Picchu, Incas ruins in the peruvian Andes at Cuzco Peru

Overview of Machu Picchu, agriculture terraces, Wayna Picchu and surrounding mountains in the background

Well known ancient city of incas – Machu Picchu (Peru)

During your stop in Peru, visit world-famous Machu Picchu. Built in the 15^th century, this Incan citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Set high in the Andes Mountains (about 8,000 feet!) above the Urubamba River Valley, its unique buildings are constructed of sophisticated dry-stone walls that fused immense blocks without using mortar. Here you’ll find breathtaking views and unique astronomical alignments that have fascinated visitors for centuries as well as friendly local llamas and alpacas.

Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia, Argentina

Wonderful landscape of Patagonia’s Tierra del Fuego National Park in Autumn Argentina near Ushuaia March

Animal-lovers are in for a treat when they see the penguins up-close on Martillo Island (Isla Martillo), when in Ushuaia. Located on the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, the southernmost tip of South America,  its nicknamed the “End of the World.” Catch a boat to this small island, home to thousands of Gentoo and Magellanic penguins. Observe them sunning, swimming and walking about with their babies in their natural habitat.

Easter Island, Chile

Cross another incredible iconic destination off your “must-see list” when viewing the famous Moai – better known as the “Easter Island Heads.” These world-famous monoliths, with human faces were carved between the years 1250 and 1500, attracting visitors from all over the world who are intrigued by their mysterious history and lore. Thousands of these giant statues once dotted Easter Island, but today only 887 remain.

City Tour, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Beautiful dancers performing an argentinian tango dance

Cosmopolitan Buenos Aires appeals to visitors of all ages. With so much to see and do, it’s a perfect destination for pre- or post-land packages to extend your luxury cruise vacation. Learn to tango in the place where this sensual dance originated. Discover one of the oldest architectural gems in the city, El Zanjon, and explore the fascinating century-old brick tunnels. Opera-lovers will want to visit Teatro Colón, one of the most important opera houses in the world.

Iguazu Falls, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Grandiose multi-level waterfalls Iguazu in South America, on the border of three countries: Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Concept of active and extreme tourism

Iguazu Falls, on the border of Argentina and Brazil.

The black Andean condors are circling in the sky above the water. Waterfalls Iguazu on the Argentina. Picturesque basaltic ledges form the waterfalls. The concept of active and exotic tourism

Iguacu Falls Iguacu National Park Waterfall Argentina Brazil

Feast your eyes on an amazing display of nature, Iguazu Falls. It’s considered by many to be the most spectacular of its kind in the world and is nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls. Located at the heart of Iguazu National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Center, the semicircular waterfalls — 275 in total — are unlike any others in the world. The tallest, known as Devil’s Throat, drops almost 263 feet into an abyss that creates a permanent cloud of mist. Step to the edge of a catwalk and gaze down into the sparkling droplets seemingly suspended beneath you. Situated in the Atlantic rainforest, it’s surrounded by verdant national parks teeming with wildlife and more than 2,000 plant species.

City Tour, Rio de Janeiro

Dinner Rio de Janeiro

Feel the electric energy the moment you sail into one of the most beautiful harbors in the world, the spectacular port of Rio de Janeiro. You’ll be greeted by majestic mountains, Sugarloaf and Corcovado, which form the iconic landscape. If you have dreamed of lounging on legendary beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema, now you can. Feeling adventurous? Take a scenic and thrilling cable car ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Here you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the dramatic coastline below. Guests from around the globe flock to this area to marvel at Christ the Redeemer Statue, which will leave you awe-struck. If bling is your thing, tour the Imperial Museum and view the stunning crown jewels.

Step aboard a luxury cruise ship to South America and experience these alluring places and many more on a vacation that includes history, natural beauty and many wondrous sites.

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