What to Expect:   Tango, samba, waterfalls, jungles, European sophistication, Amazonian adventure, and fine beaches.

When to Go:   Any time of year--just don't forget that the seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere.

What to Do:   See the tallest waterfall in the world in Venezuela, take a tango lesson in Buenos Aires, visit the disputed Falkland Islands, follow in the path of famous explorers as you round Cape Horn.

Local Color:   In European-influenced South American cities, any café is a good place to rub elbows with the locals.

Don't Miss:   Keep an eye out for penguins as you near the southern tip of South America.

Don't Forget:   Dancing shoes to take advantage of lively Latin nightlife.