Lonely Planet Best of South America

Andean peaks, Amazonian rainforest, Patagonian glaciers, Inca ruins, colonial towns, white-sand beaches and vertiginous nightlife: the wonders of South America set the stage for incredible adventures

From the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the undulating waterways of the Amazon, South America spreads a dazzling array of natural wonders. This is a continent of lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, misty cloud forests, bone-dry deserts, redrock canyons and ice-blue glaciers. Take in some of the incredible natural wonders found in every country in South America, then head to the coast for an idyllic retreat among palm-fringed, whitesand beaches and photogenic tropical islands.

Such settings offer tantalizing adventures. You can hike past ancient temples first laid down by the Incas, contemplate the awe-inspiring power of Iguaz Falls, or spend the day watching wildlife from a dugout canoe on one of the Amazons countless igaraps (narrow waterways).

South Americas diversity doesnt end with landscapes. Youll find colonial towns whose cobblestone streets lead past gilded churches and stately plazas little changed since the 18th century. You can haggle over colorful textiles at indigenous markets, share meals with traditional dwellers of the rainforest and follow the pounding rhythms of Afro-Brazilian drum corps. South America is home to an astounding variety of modern and ancient cultures, and experiencing it first hand is as easy as showing up.

South Americas fabled Inca ruins

This fantastic , lost to the world until its discovery in the early 20th century, stands as a ruin among ruins. With its emerald terraces backed by steep peaks and Andean ridges echoing on the horizon, the sight simply surpasses the imagination. This marvel of engineering has withstood six centuries of earthquakes, foreign invasion and howling weather. Discover it for yourself: wander through its stone temples and scale its dizzying heights.