Even if you haven’t traveled to Latin America, you’ve probably heard something about Mexico, Costa Rica and Brazil. But there are dozens of other fantastic must-see destinations South of Miami. So do a little research and discover some of Central and South America’s lesser known gems.
Lake Titicaca in Bolivia. Photo courtesy of Szeke.
Nicaragua: It’s one of Central America’s safest and cheapest countries and it offers the intrepid traveler a plethora of ecotourism opportunities, from lowland jungles to mountain cloud forests to island paradises. For colonial charm, visit the old world city of Granada. If surfing’s your thing, head to the Pacific coastal town of Salinas. Some consider Nicaragua the poor man’s Costa Rica, and while it’s true that the tourism infrastructure isn’t quite as developed, Nicaragua offers just as many eco opportunities at much more affordable rates. And as an added bonus, there aren’t hordes of tourists to deal with.
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Bolivia: A landlocked, mountainous country, Bolivia is home to one half of Lake Titicaca, one of the world’s highest bodies of water. It is also home to one of the largest indigenous populations in Latin America, a population that largely retains its native language and customs. At nearly 13,000 La Paz is the world’s highest capital city and one of the best spots in Latin America to buy handicrafts. Those interested in the Incan Empire won’t want to miss Isla del Sol, a small island in Lake Titicaca, where the Incan Empire was born. Or if colonial architecture’s more your thing, head down to Sucre, Bolivia’s other capital, known as the white city because of its perfectly intact colonial structures. But Bolivia isn’t all mountains; if it’s sun you’re after, head to Cochabamba, with its perfect year-round weather and endless weekend partying opportunities.
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Uruguay: Most people know next to nothing about Uruguay, but this small country is one of Latin America’s most prosperous and stable nations. After checking out its modern capital, Montevideo, most travelers head to glitzy Punta de Este, home to some of South America’s most exclusive (and expensive) beach-side properties. With its attractive beaches, high-end restaurants and hotels and hopping nightlife, it’s no surprise Punta del Este is already a well known vacation destination throughout South America. But Uruguay has colonial charm as well. The beautiful, UNESCO-designated town of Colonia is known for its perfectly intact colonial plaza, churches and houses.
Glamorous Punta del Este. Photo courtesy of Gusuval.
Belize: When it comes to ecotourism, few countries can compete with Belize. The only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize, Belize is home to the world’s second largest barrier reef, and is a must-see for hardcore scuba-divers and snorkelers. Because it’s still off most travelers’ radar and has a small population of just over 300,000, Belize’s beaches and jungles are relatively unspoiled. You may not find the tourism infrastructure present in Costa Rica, but outdoor enthusiasts will be thrilled by the lack of crowds. Aside from scuba-diving and snorkeling, jungle expeditions, birding, kayaking and rappelling are gaining popularity in Belize.
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Colombia: Love him or hate him, it’s hard to deny that President Uribe changed the face of Colombia in less than ten years. This country of stereotypes and contradictions is just now establishing itself on the ecotourism front, and visitors will be happy to discover that Colombia is much more than a narco haven. From the romantic, UNESCO-designated colonial city of Cartagena to the verdant Eje Cafetero to the sophistication and gloomy peaks of Bogota, Colombia will keep even the most active traveler busy for at least a couple months. Because of its sheer size and lack of experience with international tourism, Colombia isn’t the easiest country to get around in, but brave travelers will be rewarded by its spectacular landscapes and warm, friendly people. It’s hard to say if Colombia will continue to be safe for travelers when Uribe leaves office in a few months, but Colombians are cautiously optimistic about the improved security situation.
