Trip details

In many ways, capital city Buenos Aires is like a little slice of Europe and there's certainly plenty of beautiful architecture to ogle at on a solo or guided stroll. The city overflows with history, including the Casa Rosada where Eva Perón gave her poignant speeches and the famous cemetery where she is entombed - but there's also a fabulous arts scene including a myriad of theatres, outdoor 'galleries' and, of course, the tango. You may just end up getting a lesson in the streets!

On the border of Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu is the tallest waterfall system in the world and, happily, Argentina has the best views. Wander along the wooden walkways and peer over the edge as 275 cascades of water meet in a frothing cauldron, or take in this astounding spectacle of nature on a boat ride at its base. Be prepared to get soaked! When you've finished ogling the water, explore the forests surrounding the Falls where colourful toucans, coatis, tapirs and even big cats can be spotted.

A collection of valleys and hills below the lofty Andes, Mendoza is famous as the main source of Malbec - and happily, there's plenty to taste! Spend your time hopping from one vineyard to the next, tucking into the local cuisine along the way and enjoying the beautiful climate that makes Mendoza such a prime grape-growing region. The selection of outdoor activities is stellar too - we're talking hiking, rugged bike rides and horseback excursions, as well as white water rafting, skiing (in the right season), and trekking to the rocky slopes of Aconcagua.

The technical and much tamer start to Argentinian Patagonia, Bariloche is a picturesque town beside one of the many mirror-like lakes that cover the two million-acre park. After sampling the country's finest chocolate, set off on a scenic driving route, or get comfortable at your hotel before hiking, biking and horseback riding to some of the scattered ethereal viewpoints. If you're visiting in the winter, pack your snow gear for spot of skiing above the clouds.

Chile's Lake District is as picturesque as they come and the spread of mirror-smooth lakes, swathes of ancient forest, and volcanoes that rise in the distance is utterly magical. Pucon is a hub of activity, whether you're after watersports, hiking, biking, or horseback riding - or a soak in the thermal springs - but there's plenty of that across the district too. For an adrenaline boost, go white water rafting on a glacial river and if you're an avid skiier, the Lake District has fabulous volcanic slopes. In the case of Volcan Villarrica, you could even trek to its bubbling crater and toboggan back down! Not to be missed is a taste of the area's Mapuche history on a boat ride to Chiloe Island, where jewel-bright stilted houses line the shore.

The king of Chilean Patagonia, the sky-scraping peaks of Torres del Paine are almost unbelievable when seen with the naked eye. But true they are, and you'll be able to explore all the hidden corners on epic hikes, cycles, horseback rides and drives in the national park itself. There are plenty of trails to explore with a seasoned guide, and you'll walk across rugged terrain and golden pampas, spotting guanacos, pumas and condors catching the thermal winds. Then, there are the icy lakes and lagoons, perfect for a kayaking adventure, as well as treks across the imposing Grey Glacier itself.

Santiago is a city surrounded natural beauty and filled with the history of Spanish rule. Begin your wanderings in the Plaza de Armas, branching out to visit Santiago's many museums, ornate churches, and the bustling Mercado Central. The city also has a thriving arts scene to discover and the bohemian neighbourhoods are full of fantastical street theatre performances and quirky galleries. For the best views of the city, ride the cable car to the top of San Cristobal Hill, or climb the historic Cerros Santa Lucia. Then there's the food, which ranges from fabulous fine dining to hole-in-the-wall gems, and the skiing, which, if you time it right, is some of the best in the Southern Hemisphere.