Home to the largest river in the world, the Amazon, the tallest waterfall, the Angel Falls in Venezuela, the highest capital, La Paz in Bolivia, and some of the most remote islands such as the Galapagos Islands and Easter Island, the superlative region of South America never ceases to amaze. Add to these the mystique of the gorgeous Inca ruins and Nazca Geoglyphs in Peru, the wildlife of the Amazon and the Pantanal, the breathtaking Iguazu Falls in Brazil, the stunning landscape of Torres del Paine in Chile, the idyllic beaches of Rio de Janeiro and Colombia, and the architectural wonders of Brasilia and Buenos Aires, and you’ve got yourself one of the best travel destinations on the planet.
Apart from these wondrous attractions, another factor which makes South America exceptional is its people with their age-old customs and traditions. The jungles of the Amazon are home to some of the most backward indigenous tribes in the world who have remained uncontacted despite the changing political scenario through the years. Tribes which have embraced the new world order still hold firm to age-old customs and rituals, showcased in their many festivals like the Inti Raymi in Cusco and Festival de la Candelaria in Bolivia. One of the biggest outdoor parties in the world is also celebrated in South America, the Rio Carnival which draws millions of visitors to this side of the planet each year.
The sprawling metropolis that is Peru’s capital Lima was one of those ‘surprise cities’ for us. We’d not known what to expect from this city, and we ended up absolutely loving it! Since Lima was far off from where we were coming from, we wanted to keep staying costs down, and we did keep them…
The undisputed archaeological hub of the Americas, Cusco in Peru has always been a bucket list destination for us. The former centuries-old Inca Empire capital is also the oldest continuously inhabited city on the continent and the gateway to the famed citadel ruins of Machu Picchu. Since we were hiking the Inca trail, we stayed for…
Lima, Peru is often seen as just a gateway to Machu Picchu and other Peruvian wonders. We’ve only been there a few times, but we were surprised by Lima. It’s rich in culture and has vibrant neighborhoods. But if you only have a day or two in the city and need a place to rest…
The lovely Peruvian capital of Lima is an absolute marvel. Tucked on the Pacific Coast of the Sechura Desert, this sprawling city is steeped in ancient Incan roots. What’s more, it’s famed as South America’s gastronomic capital today, but that’s not all that’s thrilling about this city. In a fiercely Catholic country that is all…
The vibrant and carnivalesque capital of Bolivia, La Paz, left us breathless – and it’s not just about the altitude. Nestled in the Andean mountains close to the southern shores of Lake Titicaca, La Paz is a kaleidoscope of old-world and modernity. When it comes to the gay scene in Bolivia, big cities are where…
The former historic capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco, is the most popular destination in Peru today. Besides being the capital archaeological capital of the Americas, Cusco is also the gateway to the legendary city that is Machu Picchu. As it’s also known, Cuzco boasts the richest heritage amongst any of the South American cities…
Brazil, the largest country in South America and Latin America, is also the fifth largest country in the world. The country, which spans such a vast area, has plenty of geographical diversity and variations in the landscape. It is no wonder, then, that it’s filled with some breathtaking sights. From the natural beauty of the…
Brazil’s “City of Dreams” Sao Paulo is home to almost 20 million “paulistanos,” as the denizens of the city are called. But, with millions of travelers visiting the city every year, it’s no surprise that its airport was once Latin America’s second-largest. Aeroporto Internacional São Paulo–Guarulhos, a.k.a. Governor André Franco Montoro International Airport or Sao Paulo Guarulhos…
Bogota is Colombia’s capital and largest city, with more than 7 million residents. It was home to the region’s indigenous people, the Muisca. Today, Bogota is a vibrant restaurant scene, world-class museums, and surprisingly wild nightlife. The city is also a charming colonial quarter with classical and progressive architecture, making it one of the most…
The dictionary defines a capital city as a city or town that functions as the seat of government and administrative center of a country. However, not all countries have their seat of government in the capital, like Sucre in Bolivia, which is the official capital but not the seat of the government. Capital cities are…
The simple fishing village of Buzios shot into the spotlight in the early 1960s when Brigitte Bardot and her Brazilian boyfriend discovered it. Since then, it has become one of the most popular seaside resorts in this part of the world. You’ll find boutiques, restaurants, bars, and an abundance of hotels in Buzios, Brazil. Predictably…
Fortaleza is the state capital of Ceara in Northeastern Brazil. It’s quite a sprawling city with about 25km of urban beaches. This proximity to the beaches makes it a favored destination for tourists. As such, you’ll find plenty of hotels in Fortaleza, Brazil. While you won’t find many over-the-top luxury hotels in Fortaleza, Brazil, there…
The city of Eternal Spring Medellin might be slightly rough around the edges, but it’s transformed into one of Latin America’s most progressive cities. Whether it’s gastronomy, social awareness, or innovation, the city is now an exciting and buzzing metropolis. Despite being largely conservative due to a Catholic population, Medellin is extremely gay-friendly as well.…
Affectionately called a “mini-Berlin by the seaside,” coastal Valparaiso overlooking the waters of the South Pacific Ocean is one of the most vibrant of Chile’s cities. What’s more, Valparaiso and its neighboring Viña del Mar are amongst the gayest places on the continent! Santiago might be home to a larger gay scene, but it’s Valpo,…
Captivating Cartagena is one glorious mess of historic grandeur on cobbled alleys, vibrant structures and plazas, and bougainvillea-covered balconies. What’s more, the old town, Cartagena de Indias, boasts 13 km of centuries-old colonial stone walls! It’s no wonder that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What’s more, Cartagena is the undisputed gay-friendly queen of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.…
Colombia’s capital city of Bogota lies nestled amidst verdant Andean peaks and is the very picture of sophisticated urban cool. Besides incredible colonial heritage, a slew of top-notch restaurants, chic hotels, and increased safety have transformed Bogota into one of the trendiest South American cities. What’s even better is that gay Bogota is leading Colombia’s…
Cosmopolitan, lively, and sophisticated are the words we’d use to describe Santiago, Chile’s capital. It’s a wonderful place for strolling, and each neighborhood has its own unique flavor. Head out for the day to take in the museums, art galleries, and pedestrian malls before an afternoon picnic in one of the lush parks. Then, enjoy…
Chile covers almost the whole length of South America, from north to south. This results in such diversity in cuisine, weather, natural beauty, and even culture. Whichever part of Chile you’re visiting, chances are you’ll be spending some time in Santiago even just for quick transit. Why stay only for a few hours if you…
Also known as the “living museum and showcase of evolution,” the Galapagos Islands are an archipelago part of the Republic of Ecuador. Located in the Pacific Ocean, these islands are home to one of the richest marine ecosystems of the world. Therefore, thousands of people travel here each year and look for the best hotels…
When it comes to visiting Chile, most of you will probably think of Santiago or Patagonia. However, there are so many reasons why you should visit Valparaiso as well. It’s safe to say that this is one of the most underrated cities in South America. Not many people talk about this city. While in fact,…
Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire, and the magic is still here until this day. When it comes to visiting Peru, Machu Picchu is probably on top of your mind. That said, you’ll regret it if you’ve been to Peru and never visit Cusco. It’s a magical city full of history and…
If you think Lima is just a stopover, you’re dead wrong! While it’s true that many people come to Lima just for quick transit before they head to Machu Picchu or Cusco, Lima itself is a wonderful destination. This capital city of Peru is full of an enchanting panorama, food, architecture, historical landmark, nature, and…
Cartagena is the fifth-largest city in Colombia. And this old port city is located on the Colombia Caribbean coast. Do you know that part of Cartagena is surrounded by a large fortress-like wall? It was constructed during colonial times to protect the city from continual pirates’ attacks. That’s why Cartagena is known as the Walled…
Psychedelic Buenos Aires melds Latin passion with striking European grandeur. The sultry Argentinian capital sits on the estuary of the Rio de la Plata, looking out to the South Atlantic Ocean. There’s never been a better time to visit the smoldering city, what with a dynamic food scene and steamy tango bars. In fact, even…