South America

At the heart of Brazil lies a pulsating metropolis, São Paulo, a city where vibrancy and rich history intertwine. This city of wonders requires an equally wonderful place to rest after a day of exploration. The best hotels in São Paulo offer diverse accommodations that blend luxury, prime locations, and top-tier amenities to craft unforgettable …

There is no denying that the country of Colombia is one of South America’s crown jewels. And that’s saying a lot, for the continent bears some of the most beautiful places in the world. This goes a long way to explaining why so many gorgeous moves set in Colombia have been created… A place extremely …

Nothing beats staring up into the starry night, a billion lights staring back at you from the great beyond. The feeling of being so completely and utterly irrelevant, yet at the same time part of something much bigger than yourself. There are so few places in the modern world that allow you this surreal feeling of …

Movies set in Peru had an early start in the South American region, tracing their roots backthe 1890s with the first silent films and the early start of the local Peruvian film industry. While not being as prolific as other country’s production, Peru has always made great quality movies that we will showcase here for …

Colombia is a case of “don’t believe everything in the news.” While it had its fair share of internal strife and the legacy of one Pablo Escobar, Colombia had made the more notorious parts safer for visitors to see past its former dodgy reputation. Who knew a Disney movie could do that? But of course, …

Wines come to mind when Chile comes up in travel conversations and for good reason. This South American country has been producing wines for almost 500 years, thanks to Spanish communion wines that first planted the idea.  Today, Chile is home to some of the best coastal mountain grapes, such as those grown in Maipo …

On my second visit to Lima this year I was determined to see another side of the city – and to explore it further and discover Lima off the beaten path. Having been whisked around by bus and taxi previously I was curious to learn more about the neighbourhoods we passed by in a blur and …

Tucked away in the far-flung reaches of the Ecuadorian Amazon, there sits a boutique lodge perched on the edge of a tranquil lagoon. Located in one of the most biodiverse spots on Earth, this community-run luxury stay allows you to get away from it all. Sani Lodge is a place to relax amid unparalleled beauty, …

“You went traveling in South America alone? Are you crazy? Didn’t you feel unsafe the whole time? I don’t know whether I’d be more afraid of the earthquakes or the drug lords!” “Are you sure it’s a good idea?” “Donde esta su novio? Porque no tienes?” “Have you been sold into the drug trade yet?” …

The Portal de la Marquesa Boutique Hotel is one of those perfect boutique hotels you day-dream about while stuck in  an office cubicle. A beautifully decorated 400 year old colonial villa, respectfully renovated with modern comforts located on the banks of a quiet river: this is the elegant manifestation of old world charm and the perfect …

Argentina is a country known for its unique and immeasurable landscapes and diverse society. Not to mention its vibrant street life, dynamic cultural legacy, and residents with a flair for the dramatic. All of these elements have engaged storytellers for years throughout the history of cinema, and as a result, the natural wonders and idiosyncrasies …

Ouro Preto in Brazil is a former colonial mining town and UNESCO World Heritage Site (my #223!) located in the Serra do Espinhaço mountains, only a few hours south of Belo Horizonte. Ouro Preto was at the heart of the Brazilian gold rush and ‘golden age’ in the 18th century under Portuguese rule – the …

Are you a Canadian citizen looking to travel to Colombia? If so, you’ll need to know the visa requirements for entering the country. Fortunately, Canadians don’t need a visa when traveling to Colombia as long as they don’t plan on staying longer than 90 days. The most important thing you need is a valid passport …

South America has a lot to offer both national and international filmmakers with exquisite natural and urban landscapes, a rich cultural tapestry – and various state-organized film tax credits and incentives programs. So it will come as no surprise that there are so many unforgettable movies set in South America… It’s widely known that South …

Have you heard of the alluring San Blas Islands of Panama, locally known as Guna Yala? Have you seen the post-card perfect shots of deserted white sand specks in the turquoise oceans or of smiling children beckoning you to explore their little piece of paradise? If you have chances are if you’ve heard of the …

They say that Colombia has all of Latin America in one country. While we wouldn’t presume to say this, it does reflect the complexity and diversity of the continent within its borders, mixing past and present, beach and mountain, adventure and tranquillity. It’s an astonishing mixture of landscapes thanks to its ideal position right on …

Ok – I know a review of a hostel should at least start off being as unbiased as possible, but screw it, I’m just going to jump straight to the conclusion: El Rio Hostel Colombia is probably one of the best hostels in the world. Yup, there it is, I said it – and no, before …

Adrenaline filled mountain biking and a calm and tranquil walk amongst a secluded palm forest… Not exactly a likely mix right? But somehow it works, perfectly, in the itinerary offered by Salento Cycling  – a wild and crazy yet beautiful and peaceful day trip into one of Colombia’s greatest secret spots: the Carbonera Forest, the …

Medellin, Columbia is a city with a rich, storied history – it was founded as part of a Spanish colony, and then later became a central part of the global cocaine trade as home to Pablo Escobar’s cartel in the 1980s. Since then, the city has undergone a major revitalization, and although there is still …

So you’re in the famous Colombia coffee triangle and want to experience an authentic coffee tour? Obviously, you want to experience the rich Colombian coffee taste and learn all about the history of coffee in Colombia, but how do you ensure you get the right guide, the right information and at least a smidgen of …

I love travel, learning about the world and developing an empathy with my fellow humans. It’s one of the biggest thrills in life, and yet I recently found myself wondering if I was making the right choices. Am I using a sustainable tourism provider? Is this hotel locally or foreign owned? Am I doing all that …

You heard it here first: Santa Cruz de Mompox in Colombia is going to be the next ‘big thing’, Cartagena before the tourism explosion. A colonial heritage village isolated for centuries on the banks of the Magdalena River, Mompox is decidedly stuck in the past and still today remains one of the most beautiful jewels …

To explore the exotic Bazurto Market in Cartagena is to askew the touristy and picture perfect historic old town, and discover the diversity and chaos which keeps the city running. Bazurto Market is the real Colombia – gritty, friendly, unconventional and oh-so-photogenic! I decided to take a deeper look into the bowels of this market …

When you’re exploring a new city or even a new country food is one of the most of the most exciting parts. It’s something we may take for granted at home but once out of our everyday surroundings it’s something that can become somewhat of an adventure (be it good or bad) as you discover …

Have you heard of Buga, a sleepy town in Colombia’s Cauca Valley most famously known for religious pilgrimages? No? I’m pretty sure you hadn’t, as neither had I … it’s not even mentioned in the Lonely Planet! But it’s conveniently located on the main bus route between Armenia / Medellin and Cali and after accidentally googling …

Popayan is perhaps one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Colombia. Nicknamed La Ciudad Blanca, or ‘the White City’ Popayan is one of South America’s most impressive colonial cities, with white-washed facades covering the entire old town, trendy cafes and imposing churches around every corner. This under-the-radar city even has two UNESCO designations, one …

All too often tours and day trips can feel sterile, overcrowded, or it can be hard to get a real feel for a place. But on a recent Coconuco Downhill Cycling Trip on Columbia bikes offered by Popayan Tours we found the ideal combination of organization and relaxed down-to-earth attitudes that allowed us to be safe in …

I think street art has to be my favourite type of art. It can take a ridiculous number of forms – abstract, political, fun, raw, superficial – and is often relatable and accessible to a wide variety of people. That’s why when I travel I am most often drawn to this form of visual expression …

As any regular reader might know, traveling to UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world is a bit of an obsession of mine. As of writing, I have been to 250+ odd UNESCO Sites, and I’m sure this will increase in the future. I love the diversity of landscapes, the cultures, and heritage on display, …

The soaring mountains, up-and-coming cities, weaving rivers and ancient traditions of Peru make it a lifetime adventure destination. Coming to the heartland of the Inca empire is coming to a country that is both sacred and innovative, where the ancient past lives on in tandem with the fast-developing cities. Of course, Machu Picchu is magnificent, …

Chile is a country full of wonders. Despite its narrow territory, it contains an array of different landscapes to charm all kinds of people. From its imposing Cordillera de los Andes, to the beautiful beaches that overlook the Pacific Ocean, it is the perfect place for outdoor people to enjoy nature. Chile is also home …

One of the world’s most fascinating countries, there are so many things to do in Brazil that adventure-hungry travelers are spoilt for choice. Whether you want to hike in the jungles, lie on the beach or dance in the streets, you can do that here. From tranquil beaches to vibrant cities to lush rainforests, the …

Trying to decide on the easiest way to get around the main tourist attractions in Peru and Bolivia? Overwhelmed by all the options of bus terminals, routes, timings, scams, and possible destinations that your head is spinning and you just want to give up entirely!? About to give up and just buy a Peru Bus …

Chaotic, beautiful, and vibrant, this Argentinian mega-city is an intoxicating mixture of old and new. The hotchpotch of architecture means that while it’s got its fair share of concrete jungles, there are also plenty of gems to discover; French and Italian influences can be found in the grand streets. During the day, you can explore …

Cartagena, the famed walled-city that for hundreds of years acted as the gateway to the colonies of South America, is easily the most popular tourist attraction in Colombia. With its wonderfully preserved colonial churches, lush plazas, opulent palaces and numerous mansions, it’s no surprise the travellers are coming here in droves. However that’s not the …

The National Archaeological Park of Tierradentro in Cauca, Colombia is one of the most important archaeological finds in South America, which is surprising – because ask almost anyone who has visited Colombia and I can guarantee they haven’t even heard the name before. Located well away from civilization, in a remote valley in Southern Colombia’s …

So you have found yourself in the city of Huaraz and looking at escaping into the Cordillera Blanca mountains (part of the Huascaran National Park UNESCO site) to view some of those famous Andes glaciers? But perhaps you’re not quite the fully equipped, death defying, intrepid mountaineer? Or your too short on time for the famous 4 …

Lima might be the Gastronomical Capital of South America – but Arequipa, the UNESCO listed stylish cousin to the north is now giving it a solid run for its money. After plenty of horrible food in Bolivia we had been glutting for a delicious food day and having previously enjoyed the sights of Arequipa decided to spend …

Cabo Polonio is an unexpected gem, much like Uruguay in general where it is found, and this Cabo Polonio Travel Guide will inspire you to make the journey! Located only a few hours from the countries capital of Montevideo, the road-free, hippie beachside settlement of Cabo Polonio is the perfect break for weary travellers on …

There are so many things to do in Rio de Janeiro, an urban landscape famed around the world for so much! It’s a city like no other on Earth. Loud, captivating and overwhelming – yet we wouldn’t have it any other way.  In a city this, well, marvelous, it’s hard to get past the superlatives …

Where the Andean peaks paint an ethereal backdrop, La Paz unfolds, a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and contemporary excitement. Selecting from the best hotels in La Paz isn’t merely about finding a place to rest—it’s about unlocking an unforgettable journey in Bolivia’s captivating capital. La Paz, known as the world’s highest capital city, is …

The Galapagos Islands, a haven of natural beauty and biodiversity, promises a unique experience to the intrepid traveler. Here, the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands aren’t merely spaces to unwind—they’re the heart of your enchanting island adventure. In this paradise, you don’t just visit—you become part of the island’s rhythm, including embarking on a …

Popayan, Colombia, enchants with its charming blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Selecting the right accommodations is crucial to fully experiencing this Colombian jewel, and the best hotels in Popayan don’t just offer a place to rest—they provide immersive experiences that enhance every moment of your stay. The Hotel Dann Monasterio stands as a …

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vivacious heart, thrives as a city that pulses day and night, attracting travelers worldwide. Whether you’re enticed by its bustling nightlife, eclectic culinary scene, or the rich tapestry of its cultural heritage, your visit can be exponentially enriched by choosing the best hotels in Buenos Aires to complement your experience. Envision an …

Santiago, Chile’s pulsating heart, is a city where diverse cultures come alive in harmony. This urban gem beckons with its eclectic mix of timeless architecture, cutting-edge art scene, and culinary adventures. From opulent splendor to modern simplicity, Santiago’s hotels are more than just places to rest – they are your gateway to exploring the city’s …

Ilha Grande, a slice of Brazilian paradise nestled off its coast, captivates the heart with its emerald rainforests, sparkling coral reefs, and sun-kissed beaches. A vital part of your journey is not just the island’s natural allure, but the captivating accommodations that enhance your stay. The best hotels in Ilha Grande perfectly embody the island’s …

Embarking on an adventure to Peru isn’t merely about booking a flight and setting an itinerary; it’s about selecting the right base from which to explore this South American gem. The best hotels in Peru aren’t just a place to sleep; they are the cornerstone of an unforgettable experience that embraces the country’s rich cultural …

Guayaquil sparkles along the Guayas River, a dance of modern energy and rich history. The city’s waterfront allure and pulsating entertainment district promise tales waiting to unfold. While its cobblestone streets and vibrant plazas invite you to get lost, the best hotels in Guayaquil ensure you find solace in luxury at day’s end. Picture this: …

Barranquilla, Colombia’s bustling coastal hub, entices visitors with its electrifying energy. Often hailed as the “Golden Gate,” this city’s allure extends far beyond its famed carnivals and deep-rooted traditions. And while the city beckons with its rhythm and color, your experience heightens when you choose one of the best hotels in Barranquilla. The city dances—a …

Rio de Janeiro bursts with an electric energy, with its iconic beaches and lush mountaintops. But remember, choosing the best hotels in Rio De Janeiro not only mirrors this vibrancy but elevates your entire experience. Here, the rhythm of samba threads through cobbled streets, while the scent of saltwater mixes with tropical fruits. Golden sands …

Bolivia, a tapestry of soaring peaks and verdant jungles, offers the discerning traveler a symphony of experiences, where each destination sings a unique melody. Ensuring your journey is harmoniously luxurious, the best hotels in Bolivia stand ready, offering silent, sumptuous sonnets of comfort and authenticity. Enveloped by the whispering Andes and the vibrant Amazon, Bolivia …

In Colombia’s vibrant tapestry, where urban pulse meets natural splendor, the importance of the best hotels in Colombia becomes undeniably clear. A haven in Colombia not only provides rest but also shapes your entire journey, embodying the soul and rhythm of this South American marvel. Picture the exhilaration of wandering through Bogotá’s colorful streets. Here, …

In Ecuador’s embrace, every sunrise whispers tales of ancient civilizations, and the land itself unfurls like a tapestry of unparalleled beauty, holding within its folds cities pulsing with life and silent, majestic peaks. The best hotels in Ecuador don’t just stand on this hallowed ground; they breathe in unison with the landscape, offering an experience …

In the poetic sprawl of South America, Chile unfolds, a land painted with a diversity so profound it whispers through every vineyard, echoes over the mighty Andes, and courses through the veins of vibrant cities. The best hotels in Chile are not mere structures; they are narratives waiting to be lived, experiences delicately crafted to …

Brazil is a country with over 400 airports, 4 different time zones, and the host of a whopping 60% of the giant Amazon rainforest. It has diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, stunning beaches, and a fascinating history that offers thrilling experiences to travelers worldwide. So, as you can imagine – picking the best of the best …

Peru is a country in western South America, surrounded by Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, Chile to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. For thousands of years, people have lived in Peru. The vestiges of its old civilizations can still be observed across …

Argentina may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you want to go to Antarctica, but with Ushuaia at the southern tip of the Americas only less than 500 miles off the South Shetland Islands, the port town makes a natural launching pad to expeditions into the White Continent. If you don’t …

The rocky Andes mountains rise to meet the immense expanse of the Amazon rainforest in Bolivia, a country of spectacular natural beauty and exhilarating adventure. This nation is a veritable treasure trove of natural marvels and cultural riches, where exploration is just around the corner. Bolivia is a destination where one can explore the uncharted …

Ecuador, a compelling nation located on the west coast of South America, is known for its striking diversity of landscapes, abundant biodiversity, and lively indigenous cultures. This enchanted country, which sits on the equator, provides an incredible abundance of sights for travelers – most of which are covered by the best Ecuador tours. You will …

Welcome to Uruguay, a hidden treasure in South America that provides tourists with a wide range of activities. Uruguay, located between Brazil and Argentina, offers a rare combination of beautiful beaches, quaint colonial towns, lush scenery, and rich cultural history. Uruguay offers something to any traveler, whether they’re searching for a tranquil beach vacation, a …

Films are a great way to find new places to visit and inspire people to travel into the unknown, and movies set in Brazil are no exception. Brazil is famous all around the world for its beautiful beaches, fun music, delicious food, vibrant carnivals, mountainous landscapes, and the Amazon rainforest. All of these elements have …

Buenos Aires provides the perfect setting for many beguiling films with its remarkable architecture, cobblestone streets, and nostalgic cafés. Not to mention its vibrant street life, dynamic cultural legacy, and residents with a flair for the dramatic. All of these elements have interested storytellers for years and result in a wonderful complex and rich array …

Situated 620 miles off the coast of Ecuador, away from the hustle and the worries of modern life, Galapagos Islands seem to be a paradise on Earth, with their fauna and flora untouched by human hands. As the source of inspiration for Darwin’s famous On the Origins of Species, the Islands are home to some …

Brazil is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and infectious rhythms. Music is an integral part of this nation’s soul and their music festivals reflect that diverse passion. The festival scene in Brazil has something to offer for everyone, from rock anthems at Rock in Rio to the eclectic beats of Lollapalooza Brazil and …

Colombia, a country known for its vibrant culture and rich musical heritage, offers an array of captivating music festivals throughout the year. These events are not only a perfect showcase of Colombia’s diverse artistic talents but also a great opportunity for both locals and visitors alike to dance, celebrate and connect through the universal language …

Some places just truly take your breath away. Stop you dead in your tracks, mouth gaping, in awe – usually of nature’s pure majesty. The Fourteen Coloured Mountain, known locally as ‘Hornacal’, in Northern Argentina is just one of those places. Located near the famous Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the 14 …

Argentina is one of the world’s most captivating travel destinations, a country of extremes from the sophisticated vineyards of Mendoza and the urban jungle of Buenos Aires to the (real) jungles surrounding Iguaza Falls and the rugged peaks of Patagonia. There is so much to see here, but discovering the most famous landmarks of Argentina …

There are so many things to do on Easter Island I decided to make a helpful Easter Island travel guide after a recent visit to Easter Island (a.k.a Rapa Nui or Isla de Pascua) — one of the most remote inhabited places on this planet. One of the most common complaints from other travelers was …

I’m sure you’ve all seen the iconic photos from a Bolivia Salt Flat Tour, you know the ones – people sitting in shoes, or sipping out of a giant wine glass – but do you even know where these great pictures of perspective can be done? Or about the other marvelous highlights of the region? …

Chile is one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations, a country of extremes from the sophisticated vineyards of Valle del Maipo and the urban jungle of Santiago to the barren Atacama Desert, isolated Easter Island, and the rugged mountain peaks of Patagonia. The world’s longest country measuring 4,620km (2,647mi) from north to south, there …

I think I have fallen in love with Buenos Aires. A vibrant, contrasting city with a ridiculous amount of things to do – if it’s not on your radar then it really should be now! But with all the options available to you in can be overwhelming discovering where to eat, drink and enjoy in …

Buenos Aires is a city like no other. A city of tango, food, shopping, and nightlife. A city that inspires to greatness, that gets under your skin and is both confident and cool, sexy, and fabulous. An oasis of European splendors tucked away in South America. Any true Porteños (the city’s residents) will tell you …

On planning my visit to Peru swimming with sea lions in Lima was not on my radar. I didn’t even know Lima had any wildlife and had never heard of this even being a possibility anywhere in Peru. We had recently viewed the South American sea lion in Paracas National Reserve down the coast but a chance …

Do you dream of cocktails at sunset? White sand under your toes and the sound of waves crashing on the beach? A stress-free location away from chaos where no cars are allowed and your biggest worry will be ‘Açaí or Coconut for lunch?’ Well then, boy, do I have the island for you! Ilha Grande …

So on my recent trip to South America I got to do some absolutely incredible things – traversing the Inca Trail, exploring the remote Galápagos and Easter Island. Llamas. But one of the unexpected highlights of my entire trip came quite by accident in Puerto Maldonado, Perú on my Amazon Jungle Stay. You see I …

Sucre, the first capital of Bolivia [and still the constitutional capital], is a diverse, lively, and intriguing university town which offers a ridiculous amount to those who are willing to get there. Sucre is Bolivia’s oldest city, founded by the Spanish in the first half of the 16th century and today is a UNESCO World …

When you think of Peru and ancient civilizations most people would automatically imagine the famous  Incas, with their ruined cities and of course Machu Picchu. Amazing as the Inca’s were, however, they definitely were not the first ancient people to create breathtaking monuments that have stood the test of time! Around 2000 yrs ago, well …

Now before I start I’d just like to make one thing clear – that this isn’t another blog on how to get to Machu Picchu for a dollar or something ridiculous like that where you’ll be walking for days, staying in a tent, they still end up paying for things anyway… I mean that really takes the …

Stuck and struggling to figure out how to catch a direct bus from Chiclayo in Peru to Cuenca to Ecuador? Pulling hair out trying to find Cuenca Ecuador bus routes information? Scoured the internet but only come across broken websites, information or guides that explain Cuenca to Chiclayo and beyond which doesn’t really help in …

Snow-capped mountains peek above the clouds in the distance, overlooking the chaotic mess of traffic and smog left far below. Throngs of tiny, tiny people go about their daily life – unaware of the silent observers looking on from above on the La Paz Cable Car in Bolivia. This is now a daily reality of …

Located 600 miles of the Ecuadorian coastline are the Galapagos Islands, a series of islands known for their highly diverse and rich ecosystems and also known as being a rather pricey destination for your average traveler. But fear not in your quest to see Boobies (the blue-footed sort of course!!) for there is another magical …

A journey to South Colombia just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the mysterious San Agustin – home of possibly the world’s cutest UNESCO Site! Located deep in the spectacular Andes Mountain ranges, at the headwaters of two of Colombia’s largest and wildest rivers is the San Agustín Archaeological Park, the largest group of …

At the border of Peru and Bolivia, high in the Andes mountains, an immense, pristine lake shimmers its deep shade of blue – inviting you to explore it further.  And that is exactly what we did!  Exploring Lake Titicaca [‘Grey Puma’ in Quechuan – the ancient language of the Inca’s], the largest lake in South …

I love the street art of South America!  So vibrant, so colourful and inspirational! And Colombia is leading the pack, with its capital Bogota quickly becoming a mecca of street art. A walk through its old colonial centre reveals a thriving graffiti scene filled with stories begging to be told.   Artists from all over the …

São Paulo as a city surprised me. It’s one of those travel destinations that is continually under-rated with most guides and backpackers seeing it as little more than an airport. However São Paulo has a lot to offer beyond its flight connectivity, and this largest city in Brazil is actually home to hundreds of museums, galleries, bars and restaurants to …

Sometimes in life, you have these unexpected moments, pure, unchallenged, life altering moment that you remember forever…. That no matter the years you can always look back on and remember as vividly as when they happen! A moment you can re-live and re-experience whenever you chose and bath in its absolute uniqueness. Something so great …

While in Santiago recently on a LAN stopover I decided I hadn’t had enough of the Andes and that a visit to the mountains was indeed in order. Being winter, and not wanting to ski, I found it very difficult to pin something down but then a quick look on TripAdvisor and a few emails …

Have you been travelling in Bolivia and feel a bit landlocked? Craving nature, clean-air, panoramic vistas and blue waters? Then don’t miss hiking Isla del Sol, located in the Bolivian section of Lake Titicaca – the world’s highest navigable lake at  3854m! This mystical island is home to ancient Inca ruins and sacrificial altar, rugged …

With stunning mountain ranges, endless opportunities for adventure, and fascinating history, Peru is a Latin American country you could explore for months. Even if you only have a couple of weeks, it’s well worth heading here to soak up the atmosphere. The depth of tradition in Peru is one of its biggest draws. There are …