There’s something magical about South America. The lust for life every local has, the diverse landscapes that range from windswept deserts to sun-soaked beaches, the cities that could be plucked straight from Europe. It’s all incredibly captivating.

 

So what’s the best way to experience this beautiful place? It's sure to be on one of Azamara's immersive voyages, many of which can take you from one coast of the continent to the other. But to really dive into all South America offers, you’ve got to go beyond the shore. With over 130 shore excursions, they’ve got all the outdoor, cultural, and culinary adventures you need. Plus, with Azamara's incredible Ashore Land Experiences, you can make the most of your time pre-, post-, or in-between cruising!

 

With so many on-shore experiences to choose from, here are a few of favorites from some of the South American countries you can visit.

CHILE

Running along the western spine of the continent, Chile’s landscapes range from verdant valleys and ancient volcanoes, to stark deserts and awe-inspiring fjords, to cosmopolitan, colonial cities. Of course, food and flavor reign supreme around here, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snack and sample on your journey.

 

The Flavors & Traditions of Northern Patagonia shore excursion is sure to have you buzzing with excitement. After all, you’ll visit a Bee Honey Factory in the Mañihuales River Valley to see how honey is made. From here, you’ll make your way to a local farm where you’ll be treated to a sheep shearing demonstration, followed by a tour of a greenhouse full of fresh produce. And if all that produce works up your appetite, you’re in luck! Next, it’s off to a nearby venue to sample farm-fresh favorites, including empanadas, ceviche, pebre (a delicious Chilean sauce), juices, and local beer. You’ll be raising your glass after a day you won’t soon forget.

 

Thinking of a more adventurous experience when you visit Chile? How about a 3-Night Atacama Desert Expedition? Fly from Santiago to Calama and arrive at Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa—the definition of desert luxury. This place is all about authentic Chilean style, and is designed to seamlessly blend into the Salt Mountains it sits at the base of. Plus, its elevated service and amenities make it the perfect spot to retreat after a day of adventure around the Catarpe Valley. Hike, bike, or drive through otherworldly landscapes (including seven-foot-tall cacti) with experienced guides, and make sure you bring an extra memory card for your camera. Did you know they have one of the 10 best spas in Latin America?

 

ARGENTINA

Hop over to the Atlantic side of South America for some of these favorite Argentinian shore excursions. If you’ve never been to Buenos Aires, this is the perfect outing for you to revel in the nostalgic glamor of the city known as the “Paris of South America”. On the Rojo Tango Dinner Show by Antique Car shore excursion, you’ll explore the city in style and take in a mesmerizing tango performance by some of the city’s finest dancers. From the pier, you’ll be whisked away in a vintage car (not the Mustang you had in high school, more like a Model T) for a 40-minute panoramic drive that really puts the city in perspective as you tour its winding streets. At the opulent Faena Hotel, a live orchestra plays the sultry sounds of tango music while dancers captivate the audience. You’ll also be treated to dinner featuring authentic Argentinian cuisine and a steady supply of local wine and cocktails.

 

From Argentina’s epicenter of culture to the “End of the World” in Ushuaia, a nature lover’s dream awaits at Tierra del Fuego National Park. It’s home to native birds, beavers, seals, sea lions, and some seriously awe-inspiring scenes, including Antarctic forests, towering peaks, waterfalls, and glaciers. However you feel like exploring this edge-of-the-Earth wonder, there's a shore excursion that is perfect for you. Ride the southernmost railway in the world through the park on the End of the World Train & Ensenada Bay excursion, set out on a guided nature walk through “cold forests” of twisted trees, or take a horseback ride that traces the steps of the nomadic Yamana people.

 

BRAZIL

When it comes to once-in-a-lifetime travel moments, you should spend your time enjoying every minute, not worrying about the small details. With Azamara's immersive Iguazu Falls to/from Brazil Azamara Ashore Land Experience, you’ll fly you from Rio to one of the great natural wonders of the world, take you to the brink of breathtaking beauty, and make reservations for five-star dining at iconic hotels. If the Iguazu Falls are on your bucket list, this Land Program is a must. Starting at the top, you’ll walk a mile of catwalks that let you peer over the top of the towering falls. Then, you’ll take a thrilling speed boat ride to Devil’s Throat — the most impressive fall of them all. Afterward, a visit to a local Guarani tribe’s village will show you a way of life far removed from the pulse of Rio and will put you in touch with the natural world when you take a rainforest tour with a village elder. Brazil doesn’t get much better than this.

 

Shore excursions don’t always have to be jam-packed with activity. Sometimes the day calls for sun, sand, and not much else! When in Brazil, the beaches are spectacular and not to be missed. In Santos, the Gonzaga Beach outing offers time to unwind, relax, and soak in the sun. You’ll also find a unique shorefront shipping experience if you’d like to try a little retail therapy. Then, be sure to visit Gonzaga Beach’s garden — the longest beach garden in the world. In Ilhabela, the best beach is a picture-perfect sailboat ride away. Sail the São Sebastião Channel, learn about Ilhabela’s pirate history, and stick your toes in the sand at Jabaquara Beach.

 

URUGUAY

One of the continent’s smallest countries packs a big punch. Uruguay has a vast wine country, an electric Carnaval, and a rich cultural heritage like its other South American counterparts, but with a distinctly laid-back vibe. Most consider Montevideo “the world’s chilled-out capital.” Maybe it’s the sprawling beachside promenade or the close proximity to the farms and ranches of the countryside that make it so appealing, and so worth taking the Local Ranch and Barbeque Lunch shore excursion. Start with a narrated drive through the city, stopping at iconic landmarks, then leave urban life behind and learn what life is like on a working ranch, or estancia. Ride in a wagon along the shores of the Rio de la Plata, and you’ll be immersed in the gaucho (cowboy) way of life. Next is arguably the best part: barbeque! There are no frills or fancy linens here, just tasty beef and chicken, local wine, and an authentic farmhand dessert.

 

If Buenos Aires is the Paris of South America, Punta del Este is its Saint-Tropez. With a beachy, glitzy atmosphere and eye-catching contemporary art everywhere you turn, it’s pure vacation bliss. For an exclusive on-shore experience only available to select groups, set out on a shore excursion to live the luxe life at Carlos Paez Vilaro’s Atelier in Casapueblo. Tour the glamorous residential neighborhoods of San Rafael, Cantegrill, La Barra, and Beverly Hills (not that one, but still as stylish), then it’s on to Casapueblo. Part home, part atelier, this is renowned artist Carlos Paez Vilaro’s mazelike masterpiece. Wander the winding corridors and admire his vibrant abstract pieces, and you’ll see how Casapueblo’s architecture echoes his work. To top it off, champagne and charcuterie are served on a private terrace overlooking the sea.     

 

Sensational South America Awaits, create your ideal Azamara experience!