Celebrate Carnaval and culture in Brazil

Dominating the South America continent, Brazil is a country beyond compare. From its colourful Carnaval or "Carnival" celebrations in Rio de Janeiro to the impenetrable natural wonders of the Amazon, Brazil is a feast for the senses with sultry samba ringing out across its glorious eastern beaches.

Take in the architectural brilliance in the capital Brasilia by basing yourself in the hotel sectors either side of Eixo Monumental. In Rio you will find arguably the most luxurious South America accommodation with price tags to match, while Sao Paulo (the country's largest city) has hundreds of hotels spread throughout Downtown and beyond.

Northern highlights: Venezuela and Colombia

Trimmed with Caribbean coastline, vibrant Venezuela is gifted with beautiful beaches in its north and lush rainforest further inland. Under the protective gaze of Mount Avila, the capital city of Caracas has a rich dining and nightlife scene, especially around Sabana Grande. There are plenty of mid-to-high-range stays in the heart of the city too, including the JW Marriott and InterContinental.

Venezuela's western neighbour Colombia is a heady mix of history, nightlife, natural delights and gastronomy. If you're holidaying in the sizable capital city of Bogota, you will find budget-friendly options in the colonial heart of the city, while more upmarket districts such as Zona T have the hold on stylish boutiques and chain hotels.

Venture south to Chile, Argentina or Uruguay

Trailing down South America's west coast, Chile is a country of contrasts from parched deserts to ski fields and Andean highlands. Staying in Santiago's Las Condes district is your best bet for securing a stylish suite at the Ritz-Carlton or a similar high-end hotel.

To the east, Argentina is equally as diverse when it comes to incredible landscapes. From budget hostels in Buenos Aires to the wilderness lodges in Patagonia, stay a while and get to know South America's most Southern delight. Consider squeezing in a visit to neighbouring Uruguay too, where beach houses abound along the Atlantic Coast.