Chile
Snaking its way along Argentina's western borders, with the mighty Andes as its backdrop is Chile, so narrow that it's just 180km across at its widest point. Like Argentina, climate is extreme. In the north, there's the driest desert in the world - the beautiful Atacama desert - while the south is practically Alpine; in the middle, it's more Mediterranean than anything. Attractions range from gorgeous scenery of glaciers and lakes in the Chilean Lake District around Pucón to national parks like the spectacular Torres del Paine, from the modern capital of Santiago is a fantastic metropolis to the neighbouring winelands. With 3000 miles of coastline, there's plenty for beach and water lovers - the main resorts, balnearios, are in central Chile from El Norte Chico in the south to Region VII, Region del Maule in the north.

Peru
For many, Peru is the top choice in South America, not least because of the famous Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu, the continent's most famous Inca site, set among stunning cloudforest. Built as a safe haven from Spanish invaders in the 16th century, the Inca city is also home to South America's last Inihuatana (sundial). Trekking permits are restricted so apply in advance. Peru offers all sorts of landscapes from coast to mountains, while its other top attraction is Lake Titicaca, one of the world's highest navigable lakes. Capital Lima is a friendly place with a vibrant café scene, while Cuzco, 112km from Machu Picchu, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its fantastic blend of Inca and Spanish architecture evident on every street.

Mexico
Central America's most popular destination is Mexico, a country that ignites the imagination of many a traveller. The temples and pyramids at Palenque, Chichén Itzá and Teotihuacán to name but a few are among the incredible remnants of Mayan culture, ancestors of the famous Aztecs. Mexico City is a heady place, packed with people, old buildings and art galleries - Plaza de las Tres Culturas marks the country's three greatest influences with its Aztec ruins, San Diego, a 17th century colonial church and late 20th century architecture. In contrast is the country's landscape of the Sierre Madre mountains, national parks and beaches. Cancun is a popular hub but tourism has done it few favours. Go further south down the Yucatan peninsula for unspoilt beaches or head to the Pacific Coast - Puerto Vallarta may be touristy but is considerably more pleasant than Cancun and Acapulco. Towns worth visiting include Merida and Guanajuato, one of Mexico's best-preserved colonial cities.