The long Atlantic and Pacific coastlines of South America stretch from equatorial rainforests to the sub-Antarctic: frankly, they are simply too long to take in on a single cruise, so you’ll have a choice of itineraries. It’s possible to embark from the U.S.: some ships sail from Florida across the Caribbean to Manaus, Brazil, a gateway to the Amazon region. But, if you have two weeks or less, look at itineraries that include flying to and from South America.
One popular itinerary sails the Atlantic Coast between Manaus and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Ports may include:
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has a spectacular setting of beaches, forests and mountains. Take a cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain or a funicular railway up Corcovado Mountain to the feet of the statue of Christ the Redeemer.
- Montevideo, Uruguay, has a relaxed urban atmosphere, with lovely public squares, an 18th-century old town, and gorgeous leather goods and artisan crafts.
- Buenos Aires blends Argentinean culture with Spanish, French and Italian influences. Tour the colorful neighborhoods, enjoy the gardens and parks, learn the tango, and sample the country’s famous beef.
Another choice is to sail “around the Horn:” Cape Horn, the southern tip of South America. Cruises often sail between Buenos Aires and Santiago, Chile, with port calls such as:
- Ushuaia, at the southern end of Argentina, just about 1,000 miles from Antarctica. See Tierra del Fuego National Park, or take an excursion boat into the Beagle Channel.
- Puerto Montt, Chile, settled by German immigrants and set among mountains, lakes and fjords. You can hike or fish, go ziplining or canoeing, or enjoy a picnic on the beach.
- Santiago, Chile, is ringed by the majestic Andes. You’ll dock in the coastal city of Valparaiso, where colorful houses cling to the steep hills around the harbor. In Santiago, visit the artistic neighborhood of Bellas Artes or enjoy the view from San Cristobal Hill.
For yet another South American cruise option, fly to Quito, Ecuador, to cruise to the fascinating Galapagos Islands.
If you have trouble choosing an itinerary, remember that you can see another part of this wonderful continent on a future cruise. And, check out cruisetours that will take you to some of the wonders of South America’s interior, too. For more information, talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.
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