10 Amazing Latin American Vacations
Published on July 17, 2008 - 75 Comments
For those of you enjoying summer vacations, and for those us making plans for our vacation when winter ends, here is a great list of places to visit in Latin America. If you can’t visit Europe, it doesn’t mean you have to stay local for your holidays! For the purposes of this list, I have generally left out more frequently-visited spots such as Cancun, Acapulco, Costa Rica and Miami (considered by many to be part of Latin America) in the hope that people will want to venture beyond the tourist route and explore the real soul of this immense, diverse and beautiful part of the world. Feel free to share your own favorite Latin American travel experiences.
Take one of the direct international flights into Flores to explore this wondrous region. From the cobblestone streets of colonial Flores to the imposing Mayan ruins of Tikal, Peten offers an affordable and safe alternative for visitors to Guatemala. On a steamy summer day, you can dip into the cool waters of Lake Peten Itza or tour the caves of Ak’tun Kan. And make sure you take away some of the great local habanero chile salsa, unless you’re just too afraid of it.
The world’s largest salt flat is located in Bolivia, and it offers one of the most unique landscapes on the planet. The Salar de Uyuni covers over 12,000 sq km, and the salt is over 10 meters thick in the center, creating in effect a salt tundra. In summer, the salt planes are a completely flat and bone-dry expanse, but in the wet season, it is covered with a thin sheet of water that is still drivable. Rent a land rover for a camping trip, or stay in a hotel that’s completely made of salt! Definitely for the more seasoned trekker, but a truly unforgettable experience. You’ll probably never walk on the moon, but in Uyuni, you’ll come pretty close.
If you’re like me and passionately detest the hordes of tourists one associates with Costa Rica or other destinations, Panama might be a great alternative for you. Bocas del Toro is a small archipelago on the country’s western coast. Remote and difficult to access even today, the region’s indigenous and West African cultures have flourished over the centuries, and one usually hears more English or Creole than Spanish here. Check out nearby Red Frog beach for a quiet getaway, or take in some great snorkling in the reefs. Stay too long, and you’re likely to stay for good.
If there is such thing as a perfect climate, you’ll likely find it in Jalisco. Most come to Jalisco for the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, and it is undoubtedly a beautiful place. But if that’s not your thing, stay in the historic center of Guadalajara for some great food, music and museums - Old Mexico at its finest. Or tour the Jose Cuervo distillery for some free samples. You can also find less-crowded beaches like Barra de Navidad, La Manzanilla or San Patricio. Jalisco has much to offer, and you could easily spend weeks wandering around without even leaving the state. [Image Source]
Founded in the 16th Century as a fortification against French pirates stalking the Portuguese trade routes, Rio has become one of those places whose very name conjures images of steamy tropical nights, sensual Latin rhythms and beautiful, scantily-clad women. And that’s pretty accurate. Take in the Carnival atmosphere of the “cidade maravilhosa” along Impanema or Copacabana beach, or a panoramic flight around Sugarloaf Mountain in a helicopter (well worth it). Sadly, Rio does have a reputation for crime, and you should take certain precautions while visiting, but don’t let it keep you away.
At the southern tip of the New World lies Torres del Paine National Park, in Patagonian Chile. Visiting here might leave you with the impression that you have reached the end of the earth, and that you’d be crazy to go one step further for fear of falling into some infinite abyss. In other words, it be way down there. The park is home to lakes, vast glaciers and mountains massive and sheer. It’s certainly a must-do for the outdoorsman, but it offers something else, not easily explained in a travel brochure. Somewhere between the deafening silence in the air, the mighty rocks crowned with mist and snow, and the eternal and inexorable march of the glacial ice, you will feel as though you have borne witness to the dawn of creation itself, and it’s extraordinary.
Tango, Madonna and escaped Nazis. That’s the extent of most people’s knowledge of this sprawling Argentine metropolis. Nevermind the quintessentially European feel of the place, it’s affordability, its world-class restaurants, its nightlife, its wine, its art. Nevermind the flourishing rock/hip-hop music scene, the internationally-renowned fashion industry or the cultural diversity born from being the capital of a nation of immigrants. Nevermind that you can fly there directly from the U.S., Europe and Australia for a reasonable price. Madonna? Who’s that?
The Galapagos archipelago was claimed by the newly-independent Republic of Ecuador in 1832. Three years later, some egghead named Darwin visited the islands and came up with some universally popular scientific theories. Come to the Galapagos and it’s easy to see why he chose this spot. Giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins, albatrosses and countless other species rarely seen anywhere else can all be witness in this relatively small 19-island chain. Arrange your trip early, as restrictions to the delicate biosphere are understandably tight. And make sure you spend a few days there to help the local economy.
Amazonia. Vast beyond comprehension, remote, and tragically delicate. Spanning Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia, Peru, Suriname, Guyana and French Guiana, the Amazon is one of the last frontiers, and it’s disappearing at a staggering rate. There are many points of entry to the region, and one of the best is located near Manaus in Brazil’s Amazonas state. Follow a straight-line road 200 km to Jau National Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tropical, constantly wet (it IS a rain forest) and home to myriad species of dolphins, fish, birds, crocodiles, turtles, monkeys, jaguars, tapirs and insects, the park can be explored by boat for the adventurous or by foot for the suicidal. Fall asleep in a hammock to the calls of the wild, and be grateful to have glimpsed the splendor of this ecological treasure before it’s gone forever.
The Empire of the Inca once ruled supreme across the inhospitable mountains of Peru. Remarkably, they constructed entire stone cities without the need for cement, and built sprawling networks of roads along the spine of the Andes which are still passable today. The most famous is the Camino del Inca, or the Inca Trail. Hire a guide to take you on the four-day journey from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, once a great mountain stronghold of the Inca. If the altitude gets to you, chew on some coca leaves (yes, it’s legal - no, it’s not cocaine) while you take in some of the most breathtaking vistas the Western Hemisphere has to offer. Passing through the Sun Gate as the morning fog slowly fades over the spectral city, long before the tour buses arrive from Cuzco, you might feel as though Machu Picchu has been waiting hundreds of years just for you.
Contributor: Gringo Joe
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1. justme - July 18th, 2008 at 4:43 am
always wanted to go to south-america Machu Picchu looks amazing =)
2. theturbolemming - July 18th, 2008 at 4:44 am
Nice list. Makes me wish I had the money to travel..
3. Mom424 - July 18th, 2008 at 5:02 am
This is a great list Gringo Joe. The writing style is wonderful, informative and entertaining. We were discussing the places we haven’t been and the places we would love to go the other night. I mentioned that I want to go to south/central America. This is proof why.
4. wainboy - July 18th, 2008 at 5:03 am
wish i could go to these places…
5. jake ryder - July 18th, 2008 at 5:09 am
Awesome list and thanks for the vacation ideas. I have been to Peten and could not believe the beauty and culture. Flores will be like no other city you will ever visit.
6. DiscHuker - July 18th, 2008 at 5:23 am
i love guatemala. i would recommend the lake atitlan area.(http://www.rutahsa.com/atit1m.jpg) one of the most dramatic landscapes i have ever seen. there are 3 volcanos rising right out of the deep blue waters. not to mention a coffee lovers paradise if that is your particular cup of tea (or coffee in this case).
i would also recommend san pedro, belize. it is an island about 45 minutes off the coast of belize city. the water is perfect, the food fresh and local, and the blue hole (an international scuba location) is nearby. (http://ambergriscaye.com/pages/town/art/blueholelg.jpg)
7. pankhudi - July 18th, 2008 at 5:33 am
Haven’t visited any of these places but the list makes me wanna go to ‘Machu Picchu’ and ‘Galapagos Islands’.
8. Jackie - July 18th, 2008 at 5:53 am
An awesome list, like Mom 424 said it was extremely informative and entertaining. Too bad I don’t have the money for traveling
9. Mr.Graves - July 18th, 2008 at 6:42 am
Awesome list but this was done by someone who hasn’t visited these places.
I live in Chile; I’m a north american ex-pat. I’ve been to Argentina and Peru (and others mentioned) as well.
For the sake of my love of Listverse and it’s crew, I’m going to show you my photos; I keep these locked because I am a part time travel photographer and some of them are copyrighted: me. When you see the pictures, you will see why.
If you wish to use any of the photos or original work (Ihave entire folders of south america as well) Just contact me and let me know.
I’m only going to open up Machu Picchu for now, but I do have much more: http://s99.photobucket.com/alb.....%20Picchu/
Please, please do not steal the pictures; I use them professionally. However you are more than welcome to use them personally, I only ask for a quick nod.
The folder contains random and less valuable shots as well; it is not just my photography.
As for the list; there are places on it that you definately do NOT EVER want to go. Try 4 and 6- massive murder rates and corruption as well as dangerous living. In brazil north americans are practically walking targets, not to mention in the major cities very often the middle to lower class has a 1 in 3 HIV infection rate.
In bolivia you would do much better to visit the Lake T.
Not a bad list, but I’m fairly positive it was made by someone who doesn’t live here.
10. Kreachure - July 18th, 2008 at 6:53 am
Two Brazil vacation spots but no Colombia?… okay, I forgive you. Maybe if it had been a top 15…
So anyways, I’ve been to Panama, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Machu Picchu. Beautiful places, each with its own particular style and feel. So choosing to go visit one of these is really up to your personal preferences.
11. Gringo Joe - July 18th, 2008 at 7:03 am
Graves: Thanks for sending the photos. I too have lived as a gringo ex-pat, and have visited ALL of the places listed, otherwise I would not have included them. True, Rio can be a dangerous place, as can Buenos Aires, New York, Paris, and just about anywhere else if you’re unlucky. For that reason, anyone making travel plans should adequately prepare themselves and take note of common sense security precautions. But it shouldn’t completely deter someone from what will likely be a wonderful experience.
12. Bob - July 18th, 2008 at 7:08 am
Dang, I don’t think I’d chance going to any of those places. English speaking places, maybe. Maybe. Possibly some places in Western Europe. But anywhere else? As an American? Not likely.
13. chris - July 18th, 2008 at 7:08 am
I was in Jalisco this spring. Most of the time was spent in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta.
I was not impressed.
14. jfrater - July 18th, 2008 at 7:13 am
I tell you - I am definitely adding at least 5 of these to my holiday plans. I was expecting my next international trip to be back to Europe - but I have definitely changed my mind! Excellent list.
15. Ghidoran - July 18th, 2008 at 7:18 am
Wow awesome!
16. Carol - July 18th, 2008 at 7:25 am
Very beautiful places, if I can get the money I intend to go to Ecuador, it must be soo beautiful! And now because of this list I also really want to go to Chile! ^^
And by the way, Brazil is not that bad! I’d be more afraid to go to São Paulo than to Rio de Janeiro, specially if you’re a tourist that’s only going to visit the most popular spots ^^. Of course you need to take some precautions (you won’t walk on the streets counting your money outloud), but just like any other place =]
And Mr. Graves, where did you get the 1 out of 3 people with HIV virus? I’m just curious, because I live in Brazil and have never heard about it until now.
17. WarningDontReadThis - July 18th, 2008 at 7:49 am
Oh, they all look so amazing. I’d really like to go to Peru.
Maybe someday.
18. chris - July 18th, 2008 at 7:52 am
Oh, and Bob (post 12), you’re a retard. If you go somewhere international, put forth some effort to learn a little bit of the native language. It’s respectful.
19. Ryanair - July 18th, 2008 at 8:05 am
Just to watch her falling down.
20. bihls - July 18th, 2008 at 8:21 am
I went to Chile this year and it was the most amazing thing ever! Torres Del Pain is incredible and there are so many other spots we visited that could’ve made it to this list….Visit Chile!
21. Mr.Graves - July 18th, 2008 at 8:25 am
11. No problem, I’m glad to share. I have a few that I’ve been offered to sell because I was lucky enough to be at the right time and right place for the shot.
I also have tons of stuff from Chile (where I live now) and Argentina. Seriously, if anyone plans on travelling through SA anytime soon, get in touch with me and I can steer you in the right direction for something that is both safe and amazing.
16. Carol, I read it on a United Nations HIV/AIDS report a few years ago- to clarify they weren’t saying 1 in 3 Brazilians had HIV, but 1 in 3 Brazilians of the lower class; they are basically just above or below the poverty line.
I’m looking out of my window at the Andes right now, it’s misty and clouded but always beautiful. If anyone wants to see pictures of other parts of SA, message me somehow. Cheers.
22. TicoTuanis - July 18th, 2008 at 8:35 am
you said that you generally left out more frequently-visited spots,but you but Rio de Jainero,Brazil.
23. Mom424 - July 18th, 2008 at 8:38 am
Bob: It is just that heels in the dirt, insular attitude that ruins it for the more cosmopolitan, adventurous, and respectful American travelers. Ya best stay home.
24. Kraeg - July 18th, 2008 at 8:42 am
13. Chris - next time you’re in Jalisco - leave the resort. The piece on Jalisco specifically mentions a few places not in Vallarta. It’s a beautiful area once you get away from the ‘Senor Frogs’ tourist spots.
This could be nitpicking, and not to say that these all don’t look like spectacular destinations, but aren’t half of them in South America, not Latin America (or am I mistaken in equating Latin America to Central America?).
25. Kraeg - July 18th, 2008 at 8:43 am
never mind my previous post, I see I am in error here.
26. segue - July 18th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Wonderful list, thank you. Several of these are places on my “to-go” list.
Rather than Tikal, though, I chose to go to Chitzen-Itza, and Tulum. A choice I will never regret. At Chitzen-Itza, which, after a late afternoon foray to get the lay of the land, I snuck in the next day before dawn, having crept down a quarter, maybe third of a mile dirt road through the jungle to the back entrance from my cabin in Mayaland (I’m *not* kidding - awful name, great place ). I found my way in darkness, lit only by stars and a sliver of moon, to El Castille, the great Pyramid, which I climbed, on hands and knees, to watch and photograph the sunrise.
Later, I returned when it actually opened, and photographed everything. Absolutely fantastic.
I also spent most of a month in the city of Zacatecas, capital of the Mexican state of Zacatecas. It is another of the wonderfully beautifully colonial cities of Mexico. It was not, 10 years ago, an American tourist mecca, so it had remained unspoiled. We had a fabulous evening in a disco created out of an abandoned silver mine ( it had been abandoned when the lowest levels had flooded), called La Mina. You took the little tram way into the mountain, just as the miners had, until you reached the club, and we danced til dawn.
Zacatecas also boasts an old observatory. To make the story more peculiar, it is also the place from which the first photo of a “UFO” was taken.
27. JayArr - July 18th, 2008 at 9:28 am
Apparently we are supposed to “nevermind” number 4 at all. Guess that leaves only 9 places to visit.
As for #3, the author might have been better served to omit the painfully obvious bias against that ‘egghead named Darwin’… for Christ’s sake…
Generically nice list. I’ve often thought of visiting the Central and South Americas, but given the choice, I’d much rather see western Europe, the Mediterranean, Australia and New Zealand.
28. Ro - July 18th, 2008 at 9:42 am
Cool list. One honorable exclusion could be the Teotihuacan in Mexico.
29. isabaur - July 18th, 2008 at 10:02 am
YES! Finally a little more importance given to some Latin America destinations. I am a true lover of this continent, it’s diversity, people and lanscapes are out of this world. I recommend all the list, it is the way to start…so if you need any help, drop a line!
Keep on discovering.
30. pwnstar - July 18th, 2008 at 10:33 am
As a Peruvian, Im very excited to see Machu Picchu at the top of the list.Its truely an amazing place.I think its even more amazing its still standing without them using anything to hold together the stones, just cutting them so precisely that you cant even stick a knife blace between them.
31. Cedestra - July 18th, 2008 at 11:04 am
Very well written list, beautiful pictures, great choices. No complaints here!
32. Blogball - July 18th, 2008 at 11:08 am
I think Gringo Joe could get a job writing brochures.
Thanks for putting together this list Gringo Joe I enjoyed reading it.
33. goof_ball - July 18th, 2008 at 11:13 am
thanks. now i have 10 vacations to go on. hahaha =D
34. milky - July 18th, 2008 at 11:39 am
when you go to Rio, don’t wear flashy jewellery everywhere you go, and don’t walk around talking on your cellphone, because it could get snatched.
But Rio is beautiful, and most of the crime people talk about is hyped up…things happen more in Sao Paulo.
35. Mr.Graves - July 18th, 2008 at 11:42 am
I fell in love with Cusco when I was there. It truly is one of the most beautiful places on earth. My wife and I are planning on opening an environmentally friendly hostel in the Peruvian mountains in the future.
36. ciunas - July 18th, 2008 at 11:47 am
Gringo Joe: Nice one.
I’ve visited several of the places here & spent last December in Ecuador. The highlight of this trip was of course the Galapagos cruise — 8 days island-hopping. The Galapagos Islands are unique: strange volcanic landscapes, now 95% national park areas, populated by mainly endemic creatures — sea lions, marine & land iguanas, a wide variety of birds, & of course giant tortoises — that haven´t learnt to be afraid of humans, so they tolerate the presence of passing groups snapping away with cameras a few feet away. Even the yellow, red & turquoise Sally Lightfoot Crabs gripping the rocks along every shoreline seem almost tame. There are sharks, turtles, dolphins & stingrays in the sea, which teems with zillions of vividly coloured small fish that surround you when you’re snorkelling… Fantastic photos & memories… I’d recommend it to anyone.
Jayarr #27: I think you’ll find the reference to Darwin is a joke.
37. jake ryder - July 18th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
DiscHuker I think you and I had the same trip. I as well loved San Pedro, I ‘ve never dove (dived?) anywhere better.
38. Paardekopski - July 18th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
#9. Mr.Graves, is the album closed again? I was kind of curious…
39. PePiTo - July 18th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
i’m peruvian…and i never been on Machu Picchu!!
40. Rafa W. - July 18th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
I live in Rio and I can tell you that what you see here is unforgettable. Although crime is always mentioned as a drawback about Rio, some parts os the city are considered to very safe, such as Zona Sul and some parts of Barra da Tijuca. But, while in Rio, travel about two hours and go to the incrediably bautiful city of Búzios… over there you’ll see one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, Geribá. In summer, it can be too much crowded, but “crowd” means more jaw dropping womem. You can also enjoy Búzios’ nightlife at Rua das Pedras. These tiny street is full of bars, afncy restaurants and nightclubs, such as the world’s famous Pacha. If you’re willing to relax, take a trip to Angra dos Reis and visit onde of it’s 365 islands (yes! one for each day of the year). If you like to see (and be seeing) go to Praia do Dentista, in Gipóia’s Island, where you will see a beautiful beach, listen to music that came from one of the large boats shipped near to you and get in touch to the hospitality of brazilian people. Angra is like a God’s masterpiece. It is impossible to see something like it anywhere in the world. Some people claim that Angra is the brazilian Cote d’Azur… I’ve been to both places… and, I’m sorry for the French, but we’re far in front you in this merit.
41. kris - July 18th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
lovely places… i must ask my dad to take me to atleast one of this places next year…
I have been to Rio de Janeiro 3 years ago…
42. tathiana - July 18th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
it isn’t Impanema, but Ipanema. And the list is great!
43. Johnny T - July 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
This is adressed to “Chris” and “Mom424.” If you re-read “Bob’s” post he said he wouldn’t go to these places. He cited them not speaking english as a reason. So why are you insulting him for not bothering to learn a language when he travels? He said he wouldn’t go to non-english speaking countries. Not everyone has the time to pick up a second language.
44. DiscHuker - July 18th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
jake: it is as close to what i would consider a “paradise” here on earth. wonderfully warm, but not hot, air temperatures. wonderfully cool, but not cold, water temperatures. vibrant locals. wonderful ceviche. clean long beaches and wildlife to boot.
oh, and the fresh fruit smoothies.
i wanna go back.
45. HandyMan - July 18th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
some how i knew machu picchu was going to be number 1. being dominican, im sad my home country didn’t make the list, but im glad theres a list that appriciates the beauty of south america. ohh i remember i was going to go to the galapagos, when i was little but it was hurricane season. hopefully i get another chance
46. Mom424 - July 18th, 2008 at 3:12 pm
Johnny T. : What he said was as an american, and I don’t speak the language. I am a Canadian, I wouldn’t hesitate to travel there and I would make an effort to learn the language. Why should an American be any different? We’re not talking the middle east after all, and these are not Muslim countries. Why else would he hesitate to go? If not an insular, can’t be bothered to learn attitude?
47. Ana - July 18th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Great list! It’s nice to see Chile getting some recognition. Everyone should visit at least once, it’s a beautiful place.
Lol, not biased at all coming from a Chilean.
48. Spanner in the works - July 18th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Mr Graves,
Are we neighbours? And why didn’t we get the rain we were promised yesterday?
I’m coming in here late (a) because we’ve been round all day at our US-Chilean neighbours’ place picking up some DVDs she had kindly brought back for us from her 4 July ‘home’ visit and (b) I’ve just been keeping up on previous sites.
What a great list-topic to see here, and nice list. Congrats.
I quite agree, Mr Graves. One shouldn’t visit Bolivia without a visit to Lago Titi and those amazing reed boats. However, no reason not to do both, given time and resources.
That’s a point I was considering in the jeep this morning. Several of these sites are actually focal points rather than an entire holiday in themselves.
For example, if you get to the Torres, you ought to try to make Calafate and the Fitz Roy mountains at least. Patagonia is such a stunning place that the best is to hire a vehicle and give it all you’ve got. Or at least join a wide-ranging tour. Do go in November-December when the steppe is in full flower. Nothing gives a better lie to Darwin’s opinion that Patagonia has a dull, boring natural history (he was there at the wrong season). On the Atlantic side you also have the Valdes Peninsula sanctury with its sea-lion and elephant seal rookeries and boat trips out to the right whales, which, if you are as lucky as I was, you may get to touch.
We’ve always been and felt safe as houses in B.A., although I know some say it’s getting worse. We’ve heard the odd horrendous tale from Arg friends, such as a family car-jacked on their way to a funeral getting dumped out on the busy main road, and grandad’s ashes being driven off and never seen again!
Machu Picchu is still indelible, but it has been rather sadly ‘touristified’ since we visited on our first Andean botanical itinerary in the 70s. When I took Anita there a few years back, the commercialisation left a rather sour taste. Despite the fact that I am Anita’s husband and resident in Chile, they charged me a lot more than visiting South Americans because I was a ‘gringo tourist’. Worst, they were also doing that to young European and N. American back-packers, who were obviously scraping everything they had together simply to travel to S.A. at all. When we first went there in the 70s, it was so wild and natural you felt you were the second to find it after Hiram Bingham. Bamboos and gorgeous wild tropical orchids (Masdevallias) sprouted round about. Last time one or two sad looking orchids had been stuck awkwardly in a wall for ‘effect’. Nevertheless, if you don’t have a prior experience, the setting is absolutely awe-inspiring, and the constructions invite you to step back in time and place yourself as one of those who built and lived in this magical place.
We can’t speak for any more of these lovely locations, but - in the hope that further information may be helpful to would-be visitors rather than that we are simply trying to upstage Gringo Joe, - I will briefly profile one or two other unforgettable places we have visited after posting this.
49. Spanner in the works - July 18th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
1) CHILE
You’ve got to be turned on by vast, high, empty desert landscapes with great stretches which are effectively completely sterile of visible organic life. If that excites you, consider the high northern Atacama altiplano, roughly at the parallel of Antofagasta, inland and northwards from there. Probably the highlight is the quite breathtaking El Tatio geyser complex. Arrive while it’s still dark and see the mysterious, ghostly columns of erupting steam. Then, as the dawn sun breaches the horizon, they receive his Midas touch and modulate into airy, drifting golden clouds. Add to that the sculptured rock Valley of the Moon and in the far north by the Bolivian border the Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee of two great rounded, snowcapped volcanoes backing an inky lake. That is the Chungara national park. On the lake Andean flamingoes strut and giant Andean coots show bright red webbed feet when they dive. That combination adds up to something well worth the investment of the journey.
50. Spanner in the works - July 18th, 2008 at 5:31 pm
2) PERU
Perhaps the only other *snowclad mountain scenery in the Andes that can hold a candle to the Torres and Fitz Roy groups for sheer alpine drama is the Cordillera Blanca of Peru. *At least of those we’ve been lucky enough to visit.
They’re also the nearest South America gets to the majesty of the Himalaya. And if those are the kings, the soaring Cord. Blanca peaks are still high up in the royal family! Happily they are nicely accessible by number of roads to the east of an attractive and friendly valley devoted to the well-being of tourists. It is contained to the west by the far less dramatic Cordillera Negra. The region is a mecca for climbers. However, driving up and into the range, walking and generally absorbing the wonderful views and varied landscapes will fill a holiday. If you appreciate mountain flowers you should also have a field day, in which case try to visit around April or May. The Andean flora is quite different from any anywhere else in the world. Peru has red gentians, for example!
51. Bill - July 18th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
Just got back from Buenos Aires two days ago, and it was awesome!!! The weather was great, the people (including the old Nazi’s) where very friendly, it was cheap, clean, and the touristy areas where safe. They have a little of everything to do there–went to a dinner-show at a ranch on the Pampas, took a wine cruise on the Rio Tigre, visited most of the cultural attractions around the city, and ate at the best cafes. The cost for two people including the 4-star hotel and airfare?…$3000. We lived it up down there for one week, and spent less than $400, and yes, we splurged.
52. Spanner in the works - July 18th, 2008 at 6:03 pm
3) COSTA RICA.
Why write more than those two words? But if you go, don’t dream of moving around without an air-conditioned vehicle. We were saved from that disaster because they had hired out the cheapo we ordered from Miami by mistake, and we were ‘forced’ to have air-conditioning. That undoubtedly saved our journey! There is no special focal point, and you must to love nature and natural scenery. If you do you won’t forget the binos, of course and the delights will simply keep pouring at you non-stop. Howler monkeys, crocs, agoutis, Jesus lizards, iguanas … We decided to make butterfly spotting our objective, but despite field guides they were simply too difficult to differentiate on the wing. Shimmering blue morphos, swallow tails, 88s: variety and beauty without end. We fetched up twitching birds instead. 167 different in 10 days: quetzals, tanagers, hummingbirds galore, toucans and the … squeaky gate bird. Believe it! Tropical savannah, Andean paramo, dry coastal forest, exuberant rain forest. There is a volcano that erupts respectfully most of the time, so you may see glowing lava rolling down its flanks at night. It’s all there and more, and each within a short drive of the other. Such a lovely, friendly place too. Many of you lucky folks in the U.S. of A. are a sight nearer than we are. We long to return. Oh, incidentally, we hardly bothered with flowers.
53. billyrules! - July 18th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
I was actually born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, but i ended up moving away. But i still visit atleast once a year. We go to a small ranch called La Cofradia to visit my family(since everybody i’m related to lives there), it’s about 10 mins from another little city named Huejuquilla El Alto. It’s really close to the Sierra Madre(which we got to drive through and see last year, it was beautiful). The air us remarkably clean over there, and the weather is wonderful. It is basically my second home.
54. jfrater - July 18th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
It is great to hear so many people’s personal experiences of these places - thanks all
55. Spanner in the works - July 18th, 2008 at 10:37 pm
Bill (51),
Glad B.A. treated you well. It’s a nice metropolis to hang around. Due to the currency crash a few years back, Argentina suddenly became quite incredibly cheap. Now it’s merely fairly cheap, and we found inflation was beginning to bite at the beginning of this year. Who knows what will happen the ways the ‘Special Ks’ are mucking about, although our news today informs us Kristina is thinking of chucking in the towel. Chile is none too cheap, least of all for we who live here: we are being told to clench our teeth right now!
We met the charming son of a nazi in N Patagonia this year. A little younger than my age, he was. Would never have guessed his ‘origin’, except he let slip in conversation exactly when they arrived in Argentina from Germany! Couldn’t have been anything else.
56. nippy143 - July 19th, 2008 at 1:19 am
machu picchu..pretty…
57. stormy617 - July 19th, 2008 at 4:38 am
The Galapagos Islands has always been on my tip list of places that I would love to visit. Maybe one day I can hit some of the places on my list. You know when I win the lottery or some thing easy like that LOL
58. segue - July 19th, 2008 at 5:21 am
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58. stormy617
The Galapagos Islands has always been on my tip list of places that I would love to visit…
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My list, too, stormy! (Well, to be fair, it’s a long list and about 100 places vie for #1).
I have a very clear memory of riding on the back of a gigantic tortoise at the Sydney zoo when I was 4 or 5. It was supposed to be, it was advertised as, a Galapagos Island tortoise. Needless to say, that got me hooked, and from then on, I read everything I could on the Galapagos Islands, all the while planning that someday, someway, I’d visit them.
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56. Spanner in the works
We met the charming son of a nazi in N Patagonia this year. A little younger than my age, he was. Would never have guessed his ‘origin’, except he let slip in conversation exactly when they arrived in Argentina from Germany! Couldn’t have been anything else.
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When working the enormously long Mexico job, one of the Mexican laws meant that we had to hire X number of Mexican nationals to work on the shoot.
Oddly (or *not so oddly*), a lot of the actors we hired on were Mexican nationals with naturally pale blonde hair, pale skin, and icy blue eyes. They all spoke fluent Spanish, German, and English, and all had German surnames.
It didn’t take much math to figure out that grandfather and grandmother had escaped Germany one step ahead of the Allied invasion.
Saith Dr. Seuss “Oh! The Places You’ll Go! The People You’ll Meet!”
59. Spanner in the works - July 19th, 2008 at 6:08 am
segue (59),
People have noted and commented on the number of young Israelis, often in groups, that one sees around South America, and Patagonia in particular. Any connection, I wonder? Does there happen to be a Simon Wiesenthal Institute?
60. rolf_in_china - July 20th, 2008 at 1:56 am
Nice list! Hopefully someone can make a list like this for the most under-rated place on the planet; Africa…
61. Mandatory angry poster - July 20th, 2008 at 11:44 am
Mandatory angry post from a Colombian who isn’t getting enough love from listverse.
62. DJ - July 20th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
I was in Puerto Vallarta three weeks ago, and I honestly can’t wait to go back, humidity be damned.
I’ve been up and down CA, and been to places here and there in MO, VA, NV and OR, but never were there people as friendly, outgoing, and helpful to the tourists, especially one that barely had a grasp on their language (French and Spanish may be related, but hearing them spoken changes all of the rules).
63. modelpenguin - July 20th, 2008 at 9:34 pm
WTG, Gringo Joe! Amazing list, and excellent writing style. This list really captured my attention, and confirmed several places I want to travel and see. Thanks and I hope you provide us with many more lists in the future!
64. big ski - July 20th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
That part of the world is beautiful.God did good there!!
65. Val - July 21st, 2008 at 6:56 am
I desperately want to visit every single one of those places.
66. liantener - July 21st, 2008 at 11:50 am
I live in Mexico, and before Jalisco, I’ll recommend going to Cancun, and from there you can visit Chichen Itza and Tulum. Or, if you prefer colonial cities, visit Zacatecas and Guanajuato. Jalisco is nice and beautiful, but Mexico has much more to offer.
67. Brendon - July 21st, 2008 at 7:20 pm
I’m going to Machu Picchu in 20 days!
wayyy stoked for it.
68. Sindel-veg - July 27th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Great list, thank you Joe! I live 20 minutes from Rio de Janeiro and I would not advise anyone to come here this year (not even my brother who lives is Zurich). There is a new approach, so to speak, to restrain criminality that is only making them more violent and ruthless. Just take your time, Rio is gonna stay here for some more tens of years… As for the HIV, ????? It is not Africa, you know? Sao Paulo is more dangerous, so what?, it is not on the list. Bon voyage, everybody!
69. FYI - July 28th, 2008 at 2:17 am
Hey! What about the highest water fall in the world? the Angel Falls are one of the most beautiful spectacles ever. Besides, the rest of the Canaima National Park is quiet amazing too…
70. samsara-gx - August 3rd, 2008 at 5:27 pm
Hey nice list!!
I’m from Mexico btw lol, and my grandmother was born in Jalisco, then moved to Veracruz, where I was born btw 
I was kinda expecting Cancun on the list buth oh well beach is not the only thing there is to enjoy a good vacation, I guess i’m used to beaches and tourists since I was born in Veracruz lol…beaches, beaches, and beaches lol….Nice work I Love your site btw,I’ve been around here for a long time already lol
71. HJCFC - August 26th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Damn!, What’s the problem with Colombia? we have so historic places, so many natural wonders and cool places to live. Please read about San Agustin, Cartagena, Leticia, Caño Cristales, Ciudad Perdida, Malpelo, Gorgona, San Andres, Bogota, Medellin and so many others
72. segue - August 26th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
71. HJCFC
Damn!, What’s the problem with Colombia?
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There are many places in Colombia I would love to see, but you have to admit the press your country gets is very bad.
It’s listed as extremely dangerous due to the drug trade.