Football in South America is more than a sport - it is a way of life. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant football culture by joining fan clubs and attending matches. In Argentina, iconic clubs like River Plate and Boca Juniors make the country a must-visit for football fans, with locally-led matchday experiences available. The legacy of Diego Maradona lives on at La Casa de D10S, his childhood home, which can be visited on a special tour. This year, Buenos Aires will host the final of the Copa Libertadores, offering an unparalleled football spectacle. Brazil's passion for football is world famous and Rio's Maracanã stadium is a must-see landmark. Home to Rio's four major teams - Flamengo, Botafogo, Vasco da Gama and Fluminense - the stadium also offers guided tours. Beach soccer, or " footvolley", is a popular pastime, with locals welcoming tourists to join in the fun. Brazil also champions women's football and will host the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2027. As with its larger neighbours, football is deeply rooted in Uruguay's national identity. In Montevideo, visitors can take part in specialised football tours that offer the chance to watch matches and attend training sessions for an insight into the local football scene.

South America offers a diverse range of marathon and trail running events, perfect for the adventure seeker and the competitive runner alike: In Argentina, Raid Columbia, a 3-day trail running event in the northwest, offers a unique opportunity to explore the Jujuy and Salta region along the iconic Tren a las Nubes, through the vibrant Cerro de los Siete Colores and the vast Salinas Grandes. In Patagonia, El Cruce challenges runners with a 100km (63mi) course around the Lanín volcano in Neuquén, starting and ending in San Martín de los Andes, Argentina. For those who prefer city marathons, the Buenos Aires Marathon offers one of the flattest and fastest courses in South America. Brazil presents the Maratona do Rio, a scenic marathon through the heart of Rio de Janeiro that offers a lively course despite the challenging terrain. Ecuador's capital, Quito, hosts numerous races ranging from 5km (3.1mi) to half-marathons. Not to be missed is the Ruta de las Iglesias, a 10km (6.2mi) night race that takes runners through the historic centre past beautifully illuminated churches for a truly unique experience. Peru's Inca Marathon takes runners along the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The Chaski Challenge, a 100km (63mi) ultra-marathon through Cusco's ancient Inca trails at altitudes ranging from 2,800m to 4,700m (9,185ft to 15,420ft), offers a unique and challenging journey. Set in the stunning Cordillera Blanca, the Ultra Trail Cordillera Blanca is a test of endurance on the breathtaking mountain trails around Áncash, among Peru's highest peaks. In stark contrast to the Andean events, the Des Sables Half Marathon in the desert landscape of Ica is a 120km (75mi) course through sand dunes and rocky terrain.

Whether you're looking for adrenaline or scenic beauty, South America has a mountain bike adventure for every cyclist. Peru's Sacred Valley offers several routes that combine challenging mountain trails with historic landmarks, passing Inca ruins and Andean villages. For thrill-seekers, Bolivia's Death Road starting from La Paz offers a heart-pounding downhill ride from the high Andes to the lush Yungas, with dramatic scenery at every turn. Explore Patagonia's breathtaking Seven Lakes Route near Bariloche in southern Argentina, which is perfect for leisurely multi-day rides or taking part in the epic Gran Fondo Siete Lagos race. Challenge yourself on Chile's Ruta del Cóndor near Santiago, a spectacular route through the rugged foothills that's ideal for experienced cyclists. In Ecuador, ride through the volcanic landscapes and high-altitude tundra of Cotopaxi National Park or explore the lush cloud forests of Mindo, spotting exotic birds on moderate cycling challenges. Mountain biking in Colombia's Coffee Triangle offers riders a unique experience through lush coffee plantations and rolling hills, following a 24km (15mi) intermediate route along the central mountain range of the Andes. Brazil's Estrada Real offers cyclists an iconic journey through colonial history through Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, with routes to tourist attractions such as Tiradentes, Ouro Preto and Paraty. And the Brasil Ride Bahia in the city of Arraial D'Ajuda is one of the country's largest international mountain bike marathons.

South America is a playground for water adventure enthusiasts. Patagonia is a dream destination for kayakers, offering the chance to paddle near the majestic Perito Moreno glacier from El Calafate in Argentina, or explore the Strait of Magellan with panoramic views of Tierra del Fuego from Punta Arenas in Chile, where you can spot seabirds, dolphins and sea lions. The Amazon rainforest also offers unrivalled paddling adventures in kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle, with the chance to see wildlife and immerse yourself in local culture. From Puno in Peru, you can kayak along the shores of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, explore the floating Uros Islands or visit Taquile Island for breathtaking views and an insight into local traditions.
For exhilarating rafting experiences, Chile's Trancura River near Pucón provides class 3 and 4 rapids, with professional guides ensuring both safety and excitement. In San Gil, Colombia's adventure capital, you can raft the Fonce or Suarez rivers, with rapids of varying difficulty set against the lush landscape of Santander. The area also offers canyoning just outside the city, where you can rappel down a 40-metre waterfall and zipline through a deep, jungle-filled gorge. In Ecuador, the town of Baños, located on the edge of the Amazon and surrounded by mountains, rivers and waterfalls, is known for adventure sports such as rafting on the Rio Pastaza, which has class 3 and 4 rapids, or canyoning in several waterfall canyons. Afterwards, you can relax in the town's famous heated thermal baths.

South America is a trekking and climbing mecca for adventurers of all levels. The ultimate goal for mountaineers is Aconcagua in the Mendoza region of Argentina - the highest peak in the Americas. Multi-day treks or expeditions to the 6,962m (22,841ft) summit are not only a physical challenge, but also a test of endurance and determination. Other popular climbs in Argentinean Patagonia include the 2-day ascent of the 3,776m (12,388ft) Lanín volcano. Chile is also a climbing hotspot. The active Láscar volcano in the Atacama Desert, south-west of San Pedro de Atacama, rises to nearly 18,373ft (5,600m) and offers breathtaking views, including Laguna Lejía and sightings of high Andean wildlife. Ecuador is renowned for its climbing routes, with options for both beginners and experienced climbers. Pasochoa Volcano, an extinct and weathered peak at 4,200m (13,779ft), provides an excellent introduction to Andean climbing with stunning views of the surrounding valleys. For a more demanding ascent, Cotopaxi, Ecuador's second highest mountain and one of the world's largest active volcanoes at 5,897m (19,347ft), is a must for any serious climber.

For trekking enthusiasts, South America offers plenty of multi-day treks, including the world-famous Inca Trail in Peru and the W-Trek in Chilean Patagonia. In Colombia's Sierra Nevada, a 5-day adventure leads to the Lost City, an ancient citadel older than Machu Picchu, through lush jungle, ancient Tayrona ruins and deep cultural experiences.

Explore South America's top sailing destinations, where stunning scenery and perfect conditions await. Patagonia offers a unique sailing experience on its lakes. In Chile, sail across Llanquihue Lake near Puerto Varas, through Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park and into the tranquil Todos Los Santos Lake. In Argentina, Bariloche's Lake Nahuel Huapi is a sailor's paradise, with constant winds, secluded bays and stunning shores, offering an unforgettable Patagonian adventure. In Brazil, Ilhabela, the country's 'sailing capital', offers year-round winds, unspoilt beaches and prestigious regattas such as the Ilhabela International Sailing Week. Florianópolis, in the south, provides a variety of sailing venues, from calm lagoons to the open sea, combined with rich local cuisine and cultural festivals. Niterói, across from Rio de Janeiro, promises breathtaking views of Sugar Loaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, ideal for regattas and leisurely sailing. In Rio's Lagos region, Cabo Frio and Búzios offer crystal-clear waters, steady winds and lively nightlife, making them must-visit sailing spots.

Whether chasing the waves or the wind, South America's diverse coastlines are a paradise for both surfers and kitesurfers, combining world-class waves and stunning natural beauty with vibrant local cultures: Surfing is undoubtedly one of Brazil's national passions, with Rio de Janeiro's Arpoador and Leblon beaches among the city's top spots. Just outside Rio, Saquarema - known as the surfing capital of Brazil - boasts Itaúna Beach, famous for its competition-level waves. For kitesurfing, Brazil's northeast coast is unbeatable, with consistent winds and scenic attractions nearby, whether exploring the dunes of Cumbuco, relaxing in the hammocks of Jericoacoara or diving into the natural pools of Barra Grande. Uruguay's coastline is also dotted with surf breaks for all levels. Popular spots such as Punta del Este, La Pedrera and Punta del Diablo offer consistent waves in a laid-back setting. In northern Peru, Chicama attracts surfers from around the world with its claim to the world's longest left wave. Ecuador's Olón Beach, a hidden gem near Montañita on the Pacific coast, offers wide, uncrowded waves perfect for beginners and experienced surfers. And Colombia's Manzanillo del Mar, just north of Cartagena, is a top kitesurfing destination where visitors can take lessons and rent equipment for various water sports, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers.

South America boasts a rich equestrian culture that blends tradition and adventure, from riding on historic estancias to mastering the art of polo. In Argentina, the land of the gauchos, riding is an integral part of life. Estancias such as La Bandada near Buenos Aires and Los Potreros in Córdoba offer authentic experiences with Criollo horses, where you can ride across the vast pampas or join the gauchos in their daily work. Polo enthusiasts can take lessons, attend matches or even take part in polo weeks. In Uruguay, Estancia Vik in José Ignacio combines rustic rural charm with the coastal beauty of the nearby ocean. Here, riders can enjoy unforgettable adventures such as the Full Moon Ride and Swimming with the Horses, as well as polo lessons and exhibitions of this iconic South American sport. In Ecuador, the Andean highlands provide the perfect backdrop for breathtaking riding experiences. Hacienda Zuleta in the Otavalo region has an exclusive stable with its own breed of Zuleteño horses - a blend of Spanish and Andalusian breeds. Further south, Hacienda El Porvenir offers high-altitude rides along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, where expert chagras (Andean cowboys) take you close to volcanoes such as Cotopaxi, revealing the wild beauty of the páramo.

South America offers exceptional open water swimming and diving. In Argentina, the Patagonian Lake District stands out as a prime location for open water swimming. It hosts several swimming events such as the Vuelta a la Huemul, a 6km (3,73mi) swim around Huemul Island on Lake Nahuel Huapi that attracts swimmers from all over the world. Ecuador's Galapagos Islands are a diver's paradise, where you can swim with sea lions, turtles and sharks. The Galapagos National Park covers 13 islands and offers dive sites for all levels. Gordon Rocks, known for its strong currents and hammerhead sharks, is ideal for experienced divers, with a min. of 25 logged dives required for a full day experience. For those seeking more challenging adventures, Darwin and Wolf Islands offer world-class diving and boast the highest shark biomass on the planet. These sites are only accessible by cruise and require considerable diving experience with a min. of 50 logged dives. Another exceptional diving experience can be found on Chile's remote Easter Island. With water temperatures ranging from 18ºC to 26ºC and visibility up to 60m, divers can explore a unique underwater ecosystem. The island is home to around 160 species, 26% of which are endemic, offering a glimpse into a world found nowhere else on earth.

South America boasts great golf courses set in diverse landscapes. In Uruguay, Carmelo Golf Club is located near the Río de la Plata, just outside the town of Carmelo and a short drive from Colonia del Sacramento. Renowned for its high standards, this 18-hole course hosts prestigious tournaments, including the World Amateur Ranking. In Punta del Este, Uruguay’s most glamorous beach resort, the Fasano Las Piedras features Uruguay’s only championship course, designed by Arnold Palmer. In Argentina, Buenos Aires and the surrounding area are home to several top courses, with Martindale Country Club standing out for its rich history and exquisite design, offering a par 72 course that is considered one of the best in the country. Patagonia's Llao Llao Hotel Resort in Bariloche offers an 18-hole course with breathtaking mountain and lake views. Further south, El Pinar Golf in El Calafate, near the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, provides a par-3 experience, while the Ushuaia Clubhouse in Ushuaia offers the world’s southernmost golf course near Tierra del Fuego National Park. For golf in a tropical setting, Brazil is the place to be. At the Iguassu Foz Golf Club, near the famous waterfalls, players can enjoy a par 72 course designed to challenge all skill levels, with wide fairways and strategically placed bunkers. Meanwhile, in Rio de Janeiro, Gávea Golf Club offers a historic course set between Gávea Rock and São Conrado Beach, blending natural beauty with golfing excellence.

South America is a fisherman's paradise, offering diverse angling experiences in stunning natural settings. The Amazon River is home to some of the largest and most ferocious freshwater fish, including the Amazon catfish and the peacock bass, known for its aggressive fight and vibrant colours. From blackwater lagoons to flooded forests and fast-flowing rivers, the diverse habitats provide a range of fishing experiences. In this vast rainforest, we partner with reputable operators who prioritise sustainability, often practicing catch and release to preserve the fragile ecosystem. For a more tranquil experience, the Andes offer exceptional fly fishing adventures with crystal clear rivers set against breathtaking mountain scenery. In Chilean Patagonia, the Carretera Austral is renowned for its world-class fly fishing. The Baker River, Lake Bertrand and Lake General Carrera are famous for their large trout, thanks to the perfect balance of food and habitat. The Green Baker Lodge, which has been awarded the prestigious Orvis distinction, exemplifies high standards of quality and excellence in the fly fishing industry.

Perfect for those seeking winter sports during the Northern Hemisphere summer, skiers and snowboarders can experience high altitude skiing, breathtaking views and varied terrain in Chile and Argentina, with the season typically running from late June to early September. Chile boasts 18 top resorts, offering a range of experiences from challenging slopes for advanced skiers to family-friendly options. Many resorts are close to Santiago, allowing visitors to ski by day and enjoy the city's nightlife. La Parva, just under an hour from Santiago at 2,750m (9,022ft), is an exclusive winter resort with a mountain town feel and expertly groomed slopes for everyone from beginners to experienced athletes. Argentina is equally enticing, with renowned resorts such as Cerro Catedral in Bariloche offering 120km (74,5mi) of slopes and lively après-ski activities. Las Leñas in Mendoza attracts advanced skiers with steep slopes and deep powder, while Cerro Chapelco in San Martín de los Andes offers a more relaxed atmosphere, stunning views of Patagonian lakes and forests, and opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Casa Raíz, located in Calca near Pisaq in the heart of Peru's Sacred Valley, is a small boutique hotel that blends luxury with respect for its natural surroundings. This handcrafted property offers 7 suites for up to 10 guests with terraces, stone showers, Jacuzzi and breathtaking views of the gardens and mountains. Guests can enjoy personalised service, an (unheated) pool, a spa and an open kitchen for all meals.

Casa Toledo in La Cumbre, Córdoba, is set to reopen in Sep 2024 following an extensive renovation. This luxurious Argentinean retreat features a garden with pool and terrace, a restaurant and wine cellar, and a spa. Combining the region's architectural heritage with modern comforts, Casa Toledo offers a unique experience, complemented by a wide range of nearby outdoor activities.

&Beyond

Galapagos Explorer

The 38m (124ft) luxury expedition yacht is designed for an intimate adventure with just 12 guests. From June 2024, it cruises the Galapagos on two 7-night itineraries, offering expert-guided tours of either the east or west islands. Guests enjoy air-conditioned accommodations, including 4 cabins and 2 suites, spacious lounges with panoramic views, a sundeck with hot tub, and tailored dining.

TAP Air Portugal is launching a new route between Lisbon (LIS) and Florianópolis (FLN) in southern Brazil from 3 Sep 2024, with 3 weekly flights on Tues, Thurs & Sat: LIS-FLN at 10:10/10:50-17:15/17:55 and FLN-LIS at 19:35/20:40-9:50/10:55+1

Spirit Airlines will resume daily low-cost service between Fort Lauderdale, Florida (FLL) and Lima (LIM) on 4 Dec 2024. Flights will be operated daily on Airbus A320neo aircraft: FLL-LIM at 17:20-23:03 and LIM-FLL at 23:59-05:53+1.

SKY Airline has launched a new seasonal service between Santiago, Chile (SCL) and El Calafate, Argentina (FTE). The non-stop flights will operate from 18 Dec 2024 to 16 Mar 2025, twice weekly on Wed & Sun: SCL-FTE at 16:05-19:00 and FTE-SCL at 20:10-23:05.