The Heart and Soul of South America

Visible from nearly all points in Rio, the enormous Art Deco statue atop Corcovado mountain has become the symbol of the city and Brazil. The most scenic way to reach the summit is by taking the Corcovado train, which winds through Tijuca forest.

Another quintessential Rio experience is to take a cable car to the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain. Located on a peninsula at the mouth of Guanabara Bay, this landmark dazzles with its panoramic vistas of city, water and mountains – especially at sunset.

These two strips of sand were responsible for creating Rio’s fabled beach culture, which has inspired songs and stirred the imagination. As both are near the city centre, they’re easy to reach for a stroll, a swim or an immersion in local life.

Located in the Lapa neighbourhood, this 18th-century aqueduct brought fresh water from the Carioca River in nearby Tijuca Massif to the city. Since the late 1800s, these 42 graceful arches have been part of the picturesque Santa Teresa tramway.

Commonly referred to as “the Mother Church”, this cathedral is the city’s oldest public building. As you wander the streets of Ciudad Vieja, stop by this cathedral with impressive architecture, artistry and tombs of key figures in Uruguay’s history.

For centuries, Montevidean life has revolved around the tree-filled Plaza Matriz (Mother Plaza), lined with historical buildings and cafés on all sides. In the heart is a lovely fountain, where people love to congregate and browse market stalls.

In the Old City are two stellar museums dedicated to Uruguayan painters. Born in Montevideo, Joaquín Torres García had an outsized influence on modern artists, including Picasso and Miró. José Gurvich, raised in Montevideo, was also a disciple.

Montevideo has six main public parks, and Prado is its largest. With vast lawns and shady trees, this green space is where locals come to socialise, play and picnic. A lovely creek runs through its centre, and two museums offer history and gardens.

The city’s main square houses some of the country’s top sites. The most notable – and noticeable – is Casa Rosada, the presidential palace with pink façade. Also visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, which resembles a Greek temple with its 12 columns.

Located at the mouth of the Matanza River, this artistic district vibrates with vividly painted houses, street murals, and the sights and sounds of tango – which was born here. The most flamboyant zone is Calle Museo Caminito, an open-air museum.

Wealthy both economically and culturally, Recoleta is a must-see during any visit to Buenos Aires. Its cemetery holds the tombs of notable figures, including Eva Perón. Also explore the national art museum and the shops lining chic Avenida Alvear.

Teatro Colón is one of the world’s great opera houses, famed for its ornate exterior and the acoustics of its horseshoe-shaped hall. Among the stunning features of this National Historic Monument is a dome dominated by a 7m (23 ft) wide chandelier.

Named for fortified city walls, of which only remnants remain, Cercado is Lima’s historic heart. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, founded in 1535, is replete with Spanish colonial architecture (including ornate wooden balconies) and lively plazas.

Bohemian and carefree, Barranco is one of Lima’s trendiest neighbourhoods. This seaside suburb is known for handicrafts, museums, art galleries, fine restaurants and the wooden Bridge of Sighs.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC) de Lima may be small in size, but it plays an outsized role in showcasing the works of established local artists of the last century to today’s emerging talent. Its outdoor spaces are also visually striking.

Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most fascinating and spectacular archaeological sites, a must-see when in Peru. Tours begin in Cusco, which is 3,400m (11,150ft) in elevation and approximately one day's drive from sea-level Lima.