South America is on your list!

Published in the Sunday Gujarat Samachar on 29 June 2025

If there’s one continent that constantly surprises me, it’s South America. My last trip there was exactly a decade ago, on my way to Antarctica! How would I describe it: dramatic, diverse, and full of stories waiting to be lived: from Andean peaks to Amazon rainforests, colonial towns to cosmopolitan cities, and beaches that stretch for miles. And yet, somehow, it still flies under the radar for many travellers.

Maybe it’s because it feels far. Or maybe it’s just so massive that people don’t know where to begin. But once you go, it pulls you in, with its rhythm, colour, and warmth. So if you have ever thought about exploring South America but didn’t quite know where to start, here’s a quick guide to some of the most amazing countries to visit on the continent.

Peru

When most people think of Peru, they think of Machu Picchu and rightly so. The Inca citadel perched high in the Andes is one of the most iconic places on the planet. But there’s so much more to Peru than just that one wonder. From the vibrant capital of Lima with its booming food scene, to the colourful streets of Cusco, the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley, and the surreal landscapes of Rainbow Mountain and Lake Titicaca, Peru offers a mix of ancient history, dramatic nature, and a deep cultural soul.

For Indian travellers, Peru is especially rewarding because it’s a destination full of diversity and adventure. The country feels exotic yet welcoming, with friendly locals, great vegetarian food options (thanks to the abundance of potatoes, corn, and quinoa), and a strong spiritual energy that resonates with many. And if you love markets, textiles, and storytelling cultures like we do back home, you will feel right at ease here.

Argentina

Argentina is a country of contrasts. From the thundering waterfalls of Iguazú in the north to the glaciers of Patagonia in the south. At its heart is Buenos Aires, a city that feels like a mix of Europe and Latin America, full of wide avenues and tango music drifting through the air. Head west and you will find the wine region of Mendoza, home to world-class Malbecs and stunning views of the Andes. And down in Patagonia, you can hike through national parks, sail past glaciers, and feel like you have reached the end of the Earth in Ushuaia.

For Indian travellers, Argentina is an amazing mix of culture, adventure, and open space. If you love the idea of a self-drive holiday, road trips through Patagonia are unforgettable. The vegetarian scene in Buenos Aires is surprisingly good, and locals are warm and open. You will find conversations flow easily, even if you don’t speak Spanish. There’s also a shared love for cricket’s cousin, football, and yes, you will see Lionel Messi murals everywhere. Argentina feels big and bold, but it welcomes you in like an old friend.

Chile

Chile is long, narrow, and incredibly diverse. It stretches from the Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth, all the way down to the icy fjords and jagged peaks of Patagonia. In between, you will find vibrant cities like Santiago, colourful port towns like Valparaíso, serene vineyards in the Casablanca Valley, and the mystical, remote wonder of Easter Island. Whether you are hiking in Torres del Paine, stargazing in the desert, or sipping a glass of Carmenère wine with views of the Andes, Chile feels like a series of postcards stitched together into one unforgettable journey.

For Indian travellers, Chile is both thrilling and refreshing, especially for those who love natural beauty and quiet exploration. It’s incredibly safe, has a strong sense of order, and offers some of the most surreal landscapes in the world. The infrastructure is excellent, especially for road trips, and vegetarian options are increasingly easy to find in bigger cities. Plus, for anyone seeking a deeper connection to the outdoors, whether it’s through hiking, photography, or just soaking in silence, Chile delivers in every season.

Brazil

Brazil is bold, colourful, and larger-than-life. From the iconic beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro, to the roaring power of Iguazú Falls, and the mysterious depths of the Amazon rainforest, Brazil is a country that’s all about energy and scale. You have got colonial towns like Ouro Preto, the otherworldly sand dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses, and a music and dance culture that you don’t just see, but you feel. Of course, Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain are on most people’s lists, but Brazil’s magic often lies in its people, rhythms, and raw, natural beauty.

For Indian travellers, Brazil is a fascinating mix of the familiar and the wildly different. It’s vibrant, friendly, and always festive, which makes it a fun destination for couples, groups, or even solo trips. The country also has strong cultural ties with India, from the love of cricket (growing, believe it or not) to a deep appreciation for family, food, and celebration. Getting there might take time, but once you arrive, Brazil rewards you with unforgettable experiences, especially if you time your visit with Carnival or the New Year fireworks in Rio, which are truly bucket-list level.

Bolivia

Bolivia is raw, rugged, and wildly beautiful. It’s home to one of the most surreal places on the planet: the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, where during the rainy season the ground reflects the sky, creating a perfect natural mirror. But there’s much more to Bolivia than that. From the high-altitude capital of La Paz with its dizzying cable cars and street markets, to the otherworldly landscapes of the Altiplano, and the Amazonian lowlands near Rurrenabaque, Bolivia is a land of extremes, in altitude, in scenery, and in experience.

For Indian travellers, Bolivia is an adventure in the truest sense. It’s offbeat and authentic, perfect for those who like their travels with a bit of grit and discovery. The local culture is rich, rooted in Indigenous heritage, and the landscapes often feel untouched. While infrastructure is improving, it still feels like a country that hasn’t been overly polished for tourism and that’s a big part of its charm. If you have already ticked off the classics and are craving something unfiltered and unforgettable, Bolivia delivers.

So, Where Do You Start?

That’s the big question, right? South America is vast. But that’s also what makes it wonderful. If this article has sparked your wanderlust, and you are wondering how to make it happen, here’s a little something: Veena World has a group tour to South America departing on 13 September 2025. It’s a carefully curated itinerary that balances the best of this incredible continent with comfort, guidance, and of course, great company.

And if you are looking to go even further, to the very end of the world… Antarctica is not as far-fetched as it sounds. In fact, Veena World has a special Antarctica departure on 8 December 2025, and that’s one trip I’ll never forget. So maybe 2025 is the year you say yes. To Peru. To Patagonia. To penguins in Antarctica