This fascinating continent of contrasts is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes and landmarks on Earth. Vast rainforests teeming with wildlife; towering, snow-slathered Andean peaks; the mighty Amazon River; Incan ruins steeped in history; cream-coloured beaches and pulsating cities: the only question is, where to begin? South America’s nations offer a wealth of experiences to suit every style of traveller, from skiing in Chile to trekking the Andes in Peru, from learning to tango in Argentina to donning feathers and sequins for Carnival in Brazil. Our travel experts have pulled together guides and features on this attraction-packed region to help provide inspiration and information for your next trip.

The largest country in South America and Latin America, Brazil offers everything from adrenalin-fuelled adventures in the Amazon to the party to beat all parties when Carnival comes around in February. Rio de Janeiro combines world-famous sights like the Christ the Redeemer statue with miles of inviting coastline for a beach flop meets city break holiday, while Sao Paulo, South America’s most populous city, thrums with 24-hour life for an urban experience that hits all the senses.

Colombia is the only country in South America to enjoy both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines and has some of the most spectacular biodiversity in the world thanks to its multiple altitudes, biomes and terrains. The immensity of Colombia’s nature, from Andean peaks to silky deserts and sapphire seas, is matched only by the warmth, vibrance and resilience of its people.

Compact Ecuador is heaven on Earth for fans of the natural world, home to a staggering array of ecosystems, from Andean highlands and active volcanos to Amazonian rainforest and the renowned Galapagos Islands, stuffed with one-of-a-kind flora and fauna. There are 40 national parks and reserves to discover, plus capital city Quito, set at 2,850m and replete with Colonial architecture.

Exceptionally long and thin, Chile’s unique geography means it spans a range of climates, leading to an exceptionally diverse array of terrains; the Atacama deserts in the north are a world away from the frozen tundra and glaciers of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the south. Plus you’ll find volcanos, vast lakes of astounding purity, ski slopes and vineyards producing world-beating wines.

Tango, steak, football, Maradona, Evita… a whole host of stereotypes are attached to Argentina, but what makes the South American country really special is its contrasts and diversity, from mountains to lakes, beaches to forests and jungle. Metropolis lovers will relish the culture and architecture of capital Buenos Aires, but a two-hour flight in any direction can land you in wine country, high-altitude plateau, sub-tropical jungle or ski resorts.

A country where the past seems just as immediate as the present, Peru is stacked with the ruins of ancient civilisations. World-renowned Machu Picchu may be the best known, but this Incan site is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to mystery-infused sacred spots built thousands of years ago. As well as temples, there are mountain ranges and jungle landscapes to discover, plus the thriving capital of Lima.