Rio de Janeiro - Valparaiso The temperament of South America

The beauty of Rio de Janeiro is as diverse as it is fascinating. From the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain and the giant statue of Christ the Redeemer on Mount Corcovado to the colourful samba dances and carnival celebrations – Rio is inspiring simply everywhere. In the midst of the tropical metropolis, there are over 50 museums that give visitors interesting insights into Brazil’s rich culture and history. Rio is a samba stronghold even outside of the carnival: the intoxicating rhythms of the country, a symbol of the Brazilian love of life, can be heard in numerous clubs and bars.

A laid-back attitude to life and a high quality of living make Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, one of the most charming cities in South America. The cosy city, which has around 1.3 million inhabitants, stands in contrast to restless megacities like Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires. Its many little streets have museums that are worth visiting, such as the Carnival Museum and the historical National Museum. At the Plaza de la Constitucion, the cathedral and lovely cafes invite you to while away some time. Barbecue lovers will enjoy parrilla culture at the Mercado del Puerto, while those who love fine wine can discover the local wineries rivalling those of Argentina. Montevideo combines cultural experiences with a laid-back atmosphere – perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

Buenos Aires, the home of tango and a paradise for travellers who wish to enjoy the joie de vivre of South America, lies on the banks of the Rio de la Plata. Modern influences meet old traditions here, and music is everywhere, filling the streets and squares. A night on the dance floor often begins in the afternoon and continues well into the night, when locals and visitors celebrate the passion of tango in cafes, bars and at shows. Football is another Argentinian passion – the La Bombonera stadium, home of the Boca Juniors, is a must-see for fans and offers insights into the country’s football enthusiasm. Buenos Aires captivates every visitor with its energy, music and culture.

A bay shaped like a natural amphitheatre, surrounded by desert-like hills – that’s Puerto Madryn on the Atlantic coast of Patagonia. Golfo Nuevo offers excellent sandy beaches and clear water, ideal for swimming and diving. Animal lovers appreciate the proximity to Peninsula Valdes, where penguins, sea lions and elephant seals can be observed. With a bit of luck, whales, including the endangered southern right whales and orcas, can also be spotted.

Where the Atlantic meets the Pacific lies the legendary headland of Cape Horn, the southernmost point of South America. This remote and often storm-swept region has always fascinated explorers and adventurers. The barren cliffs of Hornos Island, shaped by the forces of nature, rise far out into the churning sea. A stylised albatross commemorates the many sailors who lost their lives during the extremely difficult passage of the cape. Today, Cape Horn attracts visitors with its rugged beauty and unique, untouched nature – a place that lives up to the myth and romance of past seafarers.

Ushuaia lies at the far end of the world – framed by the snow-capped Andes and the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the islands of Tierra del Fuego. The impressive location of Argentina’s southernmost city offers breathtaking natural experiences. One highlight is Martial Glacier, which offers unforgettable views of the surrounding area. The impressive Tierra del Fuego National Park can be easily reached by the Tren del Fin del Mundo (“train at the end of the world”), a charming narrow-gauge railway that runs through the unspoilt hinterland.

Punta Arenas, a city full of history and cultural diversity, is located in southern Patagonia on the Strait of Magellan. Founded as a penal colony, it developed into a key harbour thanks to its location on an important trade route and the discovery of raw materials. Today, Punta Arenas delights visitors with the multitude of cultural influences that are reflected in its cityscape. The Magellan Monument on the Plaza de Armas, the historic cemetery and the nearby fjords are just a few of the highlights. Punta Arenas is also an ideal starting point for excursions to the Torres del Paine National Park.

The Pio XI Glacier, embedded in the Chilean Andes, is an unrivalled natural treasure. As the largest inland glacier in the southern hemisphere outside the Antarctic, it covers around 1,265 km² (488 mi²) and is actually growing by around 2 m (6.6 ft) a day. A visit offers spectacular views of the mighty icebergs. The sheer size and power of the Pio XI Glacier is profoundly impressive and demonstrates the imposing natural force of this remote area in the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park.

The view of the snow-capped volcanoes of the Los Lagos region is stunning – and Puerto Montt is an ideal starting point for travelling through this impressive Patagonian landscape. The Chilean “Lakes District” boasts deep-blue mountain lakes, lush forests and the imposing Osorno volcano that towers over Lake Llanquihue. The cultural influence of many German settlers who came to Puerto Montt in the 19th century is still reflected in the town today. Regional products and culinary specialities can be discovered at the arts and crafts market and the neighbouring fish market.

Valparaiso extends over around 40 hills, which characterise the unmistakable cityscape with its stairways and steep historic cable cars – these special “ascensores” connect the lively districts decorated with street art. Chile’s most important harbour once attracted European windjammers and today artists, writers and musicians come, who love the charming mix of colonial and modern architecture. The unique flair of the coastal city immediately casts a spell on visitors.