Escape to the Summer
Escape to the Summer
Top South American destinations
Once the cold starts to settle in at home, there comes a time to start looking for the warmth, best places to visit in summer, when summer happens below the Equator.
Brazil
Cidade maravilhosa, in a wonderful country
Photo by Agustín Díaz
Welcome to South America! Brazil offers much more than meets the eye. Starting a trip in Rio de Janeiro means exploring a city with several decades of tropical chic history. Some of the best Brazil beaches are found here, as well as world-class culinary, shops and accommodation are a must-see, of course. A helicopter sightseeing flight will also give you a landscape-like perspective, while you circle around Christ the Redeemer (Corcovado) and the Sugar Loaf mountain during a stay at a private villa in Santa Teresa with 24 hour dedicated service. From higher terrain, the views over the city, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are breathtaking. A bike tour can feel like time traveling when you use Rio´s dedicated cycle lines to visit its older neighborhoods of gorgeous colonial architecture and take a moment to enjoy a Brazilian snack.
At the heart of the Brazilian rainforest, Manaus is the doorstep of Amazonia. Here, adventures and discovery are unlimited. Voyage by boat across the peaceful river flanked by lush foliage, discover its unique flora and fauna, and leave time to visit the colorful local architecture as well as its historic buildings, including the Amazonas Theater. Canoe your way down Rio Negro and paddle along as you see the scenery changing. Visit a local indigenous community and learn about their traditions, agriculture and social organization. The locals can teach you much about the medicinal herbs of the Amazon. Watch magnificent birds soar across the Amazon sky, be on the lookout for pink river dolphins and go beyond, taking a night safari to the forests after sunset.
Northern Brazil is also home to the State of Bahia. In Trancoso, travelers find a hidden paradise known only to the discerned few. Its main square, the Quadrado, is a UNESCO site that retains a unique colonial feel. Go on an exciting excursion by bike to the Valley of Buffaloes, kayak along Rio da Barra and take a private boat tour to one of the most exclusive beaches in the country: Mirror Beach. A local Capoeira show is definitely not to be missed.
Iguazu, Argentina & Brazil
The Grandiose Falls
Photo by Camila Cordeiro
Going South, where the Brazilian and Argentine borders meet, the magnificent Iguazu National Park is a sight not to be missed. The Falls can be enjoyed by land or air, as the helicopter rides provide a birds-eye view of the entire scenario. The trails and walkways, set on the Argentine side, allow for an immersive experience into nature, watching the immense waterfalls up close.
The largest one in the Park, the Devil´s Throat is mesmerizing and thrilling, and can be seen from below by boat, or from above, from a balcony that looks right into it. The Iguazu National Park does a wonderful, tireless work in ensuring local species and Nature are protected and in its purest state.
Uruguay
Uruguay natural
Of course, escaping from winter can also be a wonderful opportunity to explore beach locations with a taste of chic. Located between Brazil and Argentina, and surrounded by the Ocean South and East, Uruguay is definitely one of the best places to visit in summer. Uruguay's beaches are large and peaceful, away from hassle and noise in some remote locations like Valizas or Cabo Polonio, while Punta del Este is one of the preferred luxury vacation destinations for the most exclusive-seeking Brazilian, Argentine and European visitors alike.
Many celebrities and socialites choose this beach destination for a relaxing getaway as it is considered one of the best vacations for families, with beaches combined with countryside stays, great mobility and connections and vast extensions with no one on sight, yet very close to comfort and amenities. All this, combined with wonderful state-of-the-art spas, art galleries, unique, tranquil shopping experiences and culinary: some of the most exclusive, world-renowned chefs have their kitchens here.
