Exploration, adventure, exotic locations and a wealth of wonders for anyone interested in cultural history or the fantastic variety of wildlife – you’ll find it all on a fabulous cruise holiday of a lifetime to South America.

Each new day in this fantastic part of the world brings a memory that will last your whole life – and there’s no better way to get a taste of the amazing array of spectacular landscapes, exciting cities, charming people and beautiful beaches than on a cruise.

You might call in at Brazil’s bustling, vibrant Rio de Janeiro and take a tram to the top of the iconic Sugarloaf mountain to enjoy sensational views across the world-famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches where you’ll later chill out while sipping a cocktail.

Then marvel at the unspoilt delights of Uruguay’s glorious coastline before your stop-off when you might parasail over pristine beaches or shop until you drop in the cosmopolitan capital, Montevideo.

Passionate, lively – yet at the same time charming and gracious hosts, the people of Argentina are always happy to share their love of their beautiful landscapes and delightful architecture with visitors.  They may even teach you how to tango during a stop ashore at Buenos Aires.

Your cruise may call at the world’s most southerly city, Ushuaia on Tierra del Fuego or offer the chance to get up close to the penguins of the Falkland Islands as you travel around Cape Horn.

The world’s two great oceans meet here and as you skirt Chile’s shores there’s more breathtaking scenery as the Andes mountains spear down towards the sea in rugged rock-face fingers that form a fantastic network of fjord inlets.

Shore excursions during your South America cruise may offer chances to visit ancient archaeological sites, catch local folklore performances, explore rainforest rivers and tour fascinating cities.

And some cruise itineraries can also be combined with land tours that let you venture deeper into this vast continent to explore parts of the Amazon jungle or visit the Lost City of the Incas at Peru’s Machu Picchu.

There’s a whole world of experiences in one colourful continent and, with a huge range of stunning ships and itineraries, there’s bound to be a South America cruise to suit you. Holland America are one of the biggest providors of cruises to this region.