The Great South American Journey: Quito to Rio Adventure

Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you.

From stunning churches and basilicas to exquisite art galleries and museums, visit Old Town to explore Quito’s history and architectural splendor. Highlights include the city’s Gothic-style Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose vaulted spires and stained-glass windows tower over the city center, the sumptuous Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, decorated throughout with rich golds, and the expansive Convento de San Francisco, the Spanish style convent brimming with centuries-old art. Plaza Grande, the city’s central square, provides access to all of these religious landmarks, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

Venture to the city limits to experience Quito’s natural marvels. A quick cable car ride from TelefériQo will take you to the peak of Pichincha volcano, whose dizzying heights offer magnificent views of the city below. Better yet, journey to the middle of the world at Mitad del Mundo, which marks the exact spot where the equator crosses through Ecuador.

Find your next adventure in Quito!

Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you.

From stunning churches and basilicas to exquisite art galleries and museums, visit Old Town to explore Quito’s history and architectural splendor. Highlights include the city’s Gothic-style Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose vaulted spires and stained-glass windows tower over the city center, the sumptuous Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, decorated throughout with rich golds, and the expansive Convento de San Francisco, the Spanish style convent brimming with centuries-old art. Plaza Grande, the city’s central square, provides access to all of these religious landmarks, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

Venture to the city limits to experience Quito’s natural marvels. A quick cable car ride from TelefériQo will take you to the peak of Pichincha volcano, whose dizzying heights offer magnificent views of the city below. Better yet, journey to the middle of the world at Mitad del Mundo, which marks the exact spot where the equator crosses through Ecuador.

Find your next adventure in Quito!

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Cuenca, Ecuador, is a city that seamlessly blends colonial charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Known as the “Athens of Ecuador” due to its vibrant intellectual and cultural life, Cuenca's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that delights visitors with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and red-tiled roofs. At the heart of the city lies the iconic New Cathedral of Cuenca, or Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, with its striking blue domes. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views over the city and surrounding mountains.

Cuenca's charm goes beyond its architecture. The city pulses with a lively atmosphere, from bustling markets like Mercado 10 de Agosto, where you can savor local delicacies such as hornado (roast pork) and cuy (roast guinea pig), to the serene banks of the Tomebamba River, lined with colorful colonial houses. The city is also a hub for artisans, particularly in the production of the famous Panama hat, which is actually a traditional Ecuadorian hat woven from toquilla straw. Visitors can tour local hat factories, such as Homero Ortega, to witness this intricate craft and take home a piece of Cuenca’s heritage.

Cuenca is also a gateway to exploring the natural wonders of southern Ecuador. Just a short drive away is Cajas National Park, a sprawling expanse of Andean páramo dotted with more than 200 glacial lakes and lagoons. This park is a paradise for hikers and bird watchers, offering trails that wind through misty cloud forests, high-altitude grasslands, and tranquil lagoons. For those who prefer a less rugged adventure, a visit to the nearby Inca ruins of Ingapirca, the largest and best-preserved archaeological site in Ecuador, provides a fascinating glimpse into the country’s pre-Columbian past.

Fun fact: Cuenca is known for its consistently pleasant weather, earning it the nickname "City of Eternal Spring." With average temperatures hovering around 70°F (21°C) year-round, Cuenca's climate is perfect for leisurely strolls through its picturesque streets or outdoor adventures in the surrounding countryside. This climate, combined with its welcoming community, has made Cuenca a favorite destination for expatriates from around the world, adding a cosmopolitan flavor to its Andean charm.

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Cuenca, Ecuador, is a city that seamlessly blends colonial charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Known as the “Athens of Ecuador” due to its vibrant intellectual and cultural life, Cuenca's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that delights visitors with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and red-tiled roofs. At the heart of the city lies the iconic New Cathedral of Cuenca, or Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, with its striking blue domes. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views over the city and surrounding mountains.

Cuenca's charm goes beyond its architecture. The city pulses with a lively atmosphere, from bustling markets like Mercado 10 de Agosto, where you can savor local delicacies such as hornado (roast pork) and cuy (roast guinea pig), to the serene banks of the Tomebamba River, lined with colorful colonial houses. The city is also a hub for artisans, particularly in the production of the famous Panama hat, which is actually a traditional Ecuadorian hat woven from toquilla straw. Visitors can tour local hat factories, such as Homero Ortega, to witness this intricate craft and take home a piece of Cuenca’s heritage.

Cuenca is also a gateway to exploring the natural wonders of southern Ecuador. Just a short drive away is Cajas National Park, a sprawling expanse of Andean páramo dotted with more than 200 glacial lakes and lagoons. This park is a paradise for hikers and bird watchers, offering trails that wind through misty cloud forests, high-altitude grasslands, and tranquil lagoons. For those who prefer a less rugged adventure, a visit to the nearby Inca ruins of Ingapirca, the largest and best-preserved archaeological site in Ecuador, provides a fascinating glimpse into the country’s pre-Columbian past.

Fun fact: Cuenca is known for its consistently pleasant weather, earning it the nickname "City of Eternal Spring." With average temperatures hovering around 70°F (21°C) year-round, Cuenca's climate is perfect for leisurely strolls through its picturesque streets or outdoor adventures in the surrounding countryside. This climate, combined with its welcoming community, has made Cuenca a favorite destination for expatriates from around the world, adding a cosmopolitan flavor to its Andean charm.

Buenos Aires, the vibrant political and cultural capital of Argentina, has become an enticing destination for many travelers and a must-see destination in South America. Founded in the sixteenth century by Spanish explorers, Buenos Aires has since developed its own unique flair.

Hints of Buenos Aires’s colonial origins can be found in the Plaza de Mayo city center, including the Cabildo, the Spanish colonial town hall turned museum, and Casa Rosada, the iconic governmental building. This bright pink palace was once the site for Eva Peron’s political speeches, immortalized in Broadway’s Evita, and is a favorite landmark for photographs. In contrast, La Boca’s famous Caminito street museum bursts with brilliant hues of blue, red, green, and yellow and is a haven for local Argentine artists, chefs, and dancers.

Buenos Aires abounds with art, beauty, and romance. The luxurious Teatro Colón opera house rivals those in Paris and London, while El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore, housed in an old cinema theater, is a book-lover’s paradise. Stop by the Café Tortoni to delight in fresh coffee and churros or listen to live tango and jazz performances. Browse eclectic and traditional antiques in Plaza Dorrego’s San Telmo fair. Marvel at the city’s Floralis Genérica sculpture, whose massive aluminum and steel petals open or close in response to sunlight and wind.

Buenos Aires’s stunning blend of colonial, European, and modern architecture, gastronomy, and attractions will enthrall you at every turn!

Buenos Aires, the vibrant political and cultural capital of Argentina, has become an enticing destination for many travelers and a must-see destination in South America. Founded in the sixteenth century by Spanish explorers, Buenos Aires has since developed its own unique flair.

Hints of Buenos Aires’s colonial origins can be found in the Plaza de Mayo city center, including the Cabildo, the Spanish colonial town hall turned museum, and Casa Rosada, the iconic governmental building. This bright pink palace was once the site for Eva Peron’s political speeches, immortalized in Broadway’s Evita, and is a favorite landmark for photographs. In contrast, La Boca’s famous Caminito street museum bursts with brilliant hues of blue, red, green, and yellow and is a haven for local Argentine artists, chefs, and dancers.

Buenos Aires abounds with art, beauty, and romance. The luxurious Teatro Colón opera house rivals those in Paris and London, while El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore, housed in an old cinema theater, is a book-lover’s paradise. Stop by the Café Tortoni to delight in fresh coffee and churros or listen to live tango and jazz performances. Browse eclectic and traditional antiques in Plaza Dorrego’s San Telmo fair. Marvel at the city’s Floralis Genérica sculpture, whose massive aluminum and steel petals open or close in response to sunlight and wind.

Buenos Aires’s stunning blend of colonial, European, and modern architecture, gastronomy, and attractions will enthrall you at every turn!

Buenos Aires, the vibrant political and cultural capital of Argentina, has become an enticing destination for many travelers and a must-see destination in South America. Founded in the sixteenth century by Spanish explorers, Buenos Aires has since developed its own unique flair.

Hints of Buenos Aires’s colonial origins can be found in the Plaza de Mayo city center, including the Cabildo, the Spanish colonial town hall turned museum, and Casa Rosada, the iconic governmental building. This bright pink palace was once the site for Eva Peron’s political speeches, immortalized in Broadway’s Evita, and is a favorite landmark for photographs. In contrast, La Boca’s famous Caminito street museum bursts with brilliant hues of blue, red, green, and yellow and is a haven for local Argentine artists, chefs, and dancers.

Buenos Aires abounds with art, beauty, and romance. The luxurious Teatro Colón opera house rivals those in Paris and London, while El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore, housed in an old cinema theater, is a book-lover’s paradise. Stop by the Café Tortoni to delight in fresh coffee and churros or listen to live tango and jazz performances. Browse eclectic and traditional antiques in Plaza Dorrego’s San Telmo fair. Marvel at the city’s Floralis Genérica sculpture, whose massive aluminum and steel petals open or close in response to sunlight and wind.

Buenos Aires’s stunning blend of colonial, European, and modern architecture, gastronomy, and attractions will enthrall you at every turn!

Montevideo, Uruguay’s eclectic and diverse capital, is sure to charm you with bustling markets, sunny beaches, and plenty of museums to explore. Start your stay in Montevideo at the city center in Plaza Independencia, a lush town square surrounded by towering palm trees and stunning architecture. From here, you’ll have access to the city’s best attractions, including Salvo Palace (the city’s tallest structure) and nearby Teatro Solís. A few blocks away, sprawling Mercado del Puerto boasts some of Montevideo’s best restaurants and culinary bites; be sure to sample local favorites like asado, sopaipillas, or choripan! Simply follow the Rambla, a winding promenade which hugs the city’s coastline, to access any of Montevideo’s spectacular beaches. Whether Playa Ramírez, Playa de los Pocitos, or Playa Carrasco, Montevideo has no shortage of beachside haunts perfect for relaxation. Delight in over a dozen unique museums to explore, from Museo del Carnaval, to colorful Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales, to Museo del Fútbol. Visit Montevideo and discover a South American jewel!

Montevideo, Uruguay’s eclectic and diverse capital, is sure to charm you with bustling markets, sunny beaches, and plenty of museums to explore. Start your stay in Montevideo at the city center in Plaza Independencia, a lush town square surrounded by towering palm trees and stunning architecture. From here, you’ll have access to the city’s best attractions, including Salvo Palace (the city’s tallest structure) and nearby Teatro Solís. A few blocks away, sprawling Mercado del Puerto boasts some of Montevideo’s best restaurants and culinary bites; be sure to sample local favorites like asado, sopaipillas, or choripan! Simply follow the Rambla, a winding promenade which hugs the city’s coastline, to access any of Montevideo’s spectacular beaches. Whether Playa Ramírez, Playa de los Pocitos, or Playa Carrasco, Montevideo has no shortage of beachside haunts perfect for relaxation. Delight in over a dozen unique museums to explore, from Museo del Carnaval, to colorful Museo Nacional de Artes Visuales, to Museo del Fútbol. Visit Montevideo and discover a South American jewel!

Exhilarating Rio de Janeiro, the vibrant South American destination and cultural capital, abounds with iconic landmarks, beaches, and attractions. Christ the Redeemer, the hundred-foot mosaic statue atop Corcovado Mountain, overlooks the glittering coastline and is instantly recognizable, having become an enduring symbol of the city itself. Its arms stretching wide, the prominent figure beckons you to explore this inviting locale.

A visit to Rio won’t be complete without a day spent sunbathing on one of its many local beaches. Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach, legendary seaside getaways with white sands and brilliant blue waves, attract millions of visitors each year, but an hour-long trek to the west will bring you to the secluded beauty of Prainha Beach, equally worth admiration.

Aside from the crowded beaches, Rio de Janeiro has plenty of serene natural beauty and ecological marvels. Venture west of Rio to immerse yourself in the lush rainforests, waterfalls, and biodiverse wildlife of the Parque Nacional da Tijuca, a verdant paradise for those who love hiking, bird-watching, or rock-climbing excursions! Northeast of Copacabana Beach lies Pão de Açucar, or Sugarloaf Mountain, accessible by a short tram ride to its peak and providing spectacular views of the bustling city.

Rio de Janeiro boasts thrilling nightlife, mouthwatering delicacies, and internationally renowned football teams. Dance clubs and bars, offering some of the best cocktails and live music in South America, line the city’s streets, particularly in the popular Lapa neighborhood. Staple street foods include savory churrasco, a Portuguese-style steak, fresh seafood dishes like moqueca, a fish stew, or pão de queijo, warm rolls of cheese bread. International soccer enthusiasts will enjoy touring the Maracanã Stadium, Brazil’s premier football stadium, which can hold up to 80,000 cheering fans per match. Travel to Rio in February for the city’s infamous Carnival, a four-day festival where the streets are filled with samba dancing, parade floats, and brilliantly hued costumes.

This colorful city will excite the eye and capture the senses!

Exhilarating Rio de Janeiro, the vibrant South American destination and cultural capital, abounds with iconic landmarks, beaches, and attractions. Christ the Redeemer, the hundred-foot mosaic statue atop Corcovado Mountain, overlooks the glittering coastline and is instantly recognizable, having become an enduring symbol of the city itself. Its arms stretching wide, the prominent figure beckons you to explore this inviting locale.

A visit to Rio won’t be complete without a day spent sunbathing on one of its many local beaches. Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach, legendary seaside getaways with white sands and brilliant blue waves, attract millions of visitors each year, but an hour-long trek to the west will bring you to the secluded beauty of Prainha Beach, equally worth admiration.

Aside from the crowded beaches, Rio de Janeiro has plenty of serene natural beauty and ecological marvels. Venture west of Rio to immerse yourself in the lush rainforests, waterfalls, and biodiverse wildlife of the Parque Nacional da Tijuca, a verdant paradise for those who love hiking, bird-watching, or rock-climbing excursions! Northeast of Copacabana Beach lies Pão de Açucar, or Sugarloaf Mountain, accessible by a short tram ride to its peak and providing spectacular views of the bustling city.

Rio de Janeiro boasts thrilling nightlife, mouthwatering delicacies, and internationally renowned football teams. Dance clubs and bars, offering some of the best cocktails and live music in South America, line the city’s streets, particularly in the popular Lapa neighborhood. Staple street foods include savory churrasco, a Portuguese-style steak, fresh seafood dishes like moqueca, a fish stew, or pão de queijo, warm rolls of cheese bread. International soccer enthusiasts will enjoy touring the Maracanã Stadium, Brazil’s premier football stadium, which can hold up to 80,000 cheering fans per match. Travel to Rio in February for the city’s infamous Carnival, a four-day festival where the streets are filled with samba dancing, parade floats, and brilliantly hued costumes.

This colorful city will excite the eye and capture the senses!