Explore the dynamic city of Rio de Janeiro, stroll the exquisite streets of Buenos Aires, witness a breathtaking sunset over Machu Pichu, stand at the southern most tip of South America, Ushuaia… Images of South America, colourful and rich in texture, reflect a diverse continent, with 12 countries and two predominant languages, namely Spanish and Portuguese.

The expansive coastline makes South American cruises a traveller’s dream, but for this trip-of-a-lifetime, you need time on your side. The average cruise in South America takes a few weeks, with a shorter Inca Discover (such as that offered by Holland America Line) taking 13 days. Shorter cruises, embarking in South America, are possible and are perfect for adding onto a land package.

On a South American cruise, immerse yourself into the local culture with stops in Valparaiso, Chile, the ‘Jewel of the Pacific’. This World Heritage Site is a stunning combination of history, culture and natural beauty. Montevideo, Uruguay, is another popular destination on a cruise around South America. It has a blend of European charm with multicultural flair. The narrow streets are reminiscent of many old European cities.

- Peru is a land of contrast – surf in southern Peru, trek the Peruvian jungle or take the train to Machu Pichu; most of these activities (and others) are available on a cruise to South America.