South America captivates adventure travelers with its diverse landscapes, spanning lush rainforests, arid deserts, fertile valleys, and active volcanoes. These ancient terrains, shaped by millennia of civilizations, harbor ruins ready for exploration by intrepid explorers. From scaling snowy peaks and uncovering ancient temples to scuba diving vibrant reefs, South America delivers unparalleled thrills. Here are six essential adventures guaranteed to create lifelong memories. Trek to Ciudad

South America is renowned for its vibrant cultures, pristine beaches, and world-class cuisine. Yet, nothing captivates like the continents immense geographical diversity and scale. Home to the worlds longest mountain range (the Andes), largest rainforest (the Amazon), and longest river (the Amazon, by some measures), it features southern glaciers, Andean volcanoes, varied deserts, colossal waterfalls, profound canyons, and expansive salt flats. Explore some of South Americas most awe-inspiring n

Ecuador, a compact South American gem, offers a stunning tapestry of natural and cultural marvels. Start in the colonial heart of Quito, immerse yourself in the vibrant cloud forests alive with hummingbirds and prowling pumas, ascend the Andes to connect with Otavalos indigenous artisans, embark on a scenic train journey from Ibarra, and cap your trip amid the Galápagos extraordinary wildlife. This article first appeared in the Fall 2017 issue of Lonely Planet magazines U.S. edition, drawing on

Colombia is a food lovers paradise, where diverse landscapes, fresh produce, and cultural influences create unique regional gastronomic gems. Each area offers distinct flavors and traditions, positioning Colombia as an emerging culinary hotspot. Heres your essential guide to must-try food experiences. Explore Vibrant Local Markets Start your mornings at Bogotás Plazas de Mercados, such as Paloquemao or Las Ferias, where fresh produce arrives daily without tourist crowds. Immerse yourself i

Ecologist Katharine Lowrie from Devon, England, and her husband David, a management consultant from Northumberland, ran the length of South America—6,504 miles—in 15 months. Their extraordinary journey is chronicled in Katharines new book, Running South America: With My Husband and Other Animals. Starting from Cabo Froward in Chile in 2012, the couple traversed Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Venezuela, finishing at Carupano on the Caribbean Sea. As the first couple to run the entire contin

In 2013, Peru emerged on the global culinary map when Londons Lima restaurant earned its first Michelin star, and Limas Astrid y Gastón topped the inaugural Latin Americas 50 Best Restaurants list. The excitement around this cuisine—featuring diverse tubers, bright citrus, and ají chilies—continues unabated. In 2017, the top two spots in the awards went to Peruvian establishments.While the world often fixates on Lima as Perus gastronomic epicenter, the countrys cuisine draws from ancient traditi

Spirits tourism is surging alongside wine trails and craft beer adventures. To fully appreciate a peaty Islay whisky or velvety tawny port, experience them at their source—infused with history and local culture. From Perus pisco sours to Wales botanically infused gins, explore our expert picks for premier distilleries. Whisky on Islay, Scotland Scots consistently rank Islay (pronounced eye-lah) whiskies from the Inner Hebrides among the worlds best. While its landscapes are serene compared to

Its no surprise that Latin Americas premier wellness destinations trace their origins to ancient civilizations like the Maya and Inca. These cultures revered sweat lodges, hot stone massages, and coca leaves as sacred rituals. Today, Latin American countries build on these time-honored practices to offer transformative wellness travel focused on inner peace and holistic healing. Yäan Wellness, Tulum, Mexico After a lively night in Cancúns bustling Quintana Roo resorts, a restorative escape in

Strolling through Paraty evokes a journey back in time—horse-drawn carts rumble over cobblestone streets, boats bob gently along picturesque shores, and life revolves around clusters of white-stone houses adorned with Masonic symbols. This Brazilian gem is the perfect place to unplug and recharge, with over 300 beaches, lush rainforest waterfalls, and extensive hiking and cycling trails all nearby. Rich in history and culture, Paraty was a key port during Brazils 18th-century gold rush. After

Arequipa, a stunning southern Andean city in Peru, emerges as a thriving center for artisans—from expert knitters and bakers to innovative chocolate makers. With a booming fair trade textile industry, hands-on gourmet workshops, and a vibrant craft beer scene, it draws travelers eager to engage in authentic making experiences. Whether youre a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic hobbyist, Arequipa invites you to immerse yourself hands-on in its time-honored craft traditions. Sweet aromas

Bogotás central location makes it an ideal hub for exploring Colombias stunning countryside. Venture just a short drive from the capital to discover picturesque pueblos, high páramo wetlands, and authentic cowboy ranches. After ticking off the citys top sights, use Bogotá as your base for unforgettable day trips tailored for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and fans of colonial charm. These curated excursions highlight the regions diverse landscapes and activities, drawing from decades of local

Medellín has overcome its challenging past, undergoing a remarkable renaissance that has revitalized this Colombian city. Despite its transformation, it remains an under-the-radar destination on many travel lists. This vibrant South American hub blends rich history with modern appeal—plan your trip now before it gains widespread fame. An Urban Planning Success Story Medellín stands as a model of innovative urban planning. Shaped by a complex history—with ongoing progress—the city today featur

As a Lonely Planet Local with six years immersed in Lima, Peru, Agnes Rivera was instantly enchanted by the citys iconic malecón—a scenic coastal pathway winding through diverse neighborhoods. This vibrant capital masterfully blends Perus metropolitan energy with its rich mosaic of traditional cultures. When friends visit... I reserve a table at Isolina, a beloved tavern in the bohemian Barranco district. Family recipes served in generous, shareable portions feature authentic criollo specialt

The Inca Trail stands as South Americas most iconic hike—a profound, life-changing adventure through the Sacred Valley to the legendary Machu Picchu. This demanding four-day trek involves cold nights, physical exertion, and steep climbs, but the payoff is magical: mist parting to unveil emerald peaks and ancient terraced ruins of this mystical Inca citadel. Planning your trek? Here are proven tips from seasoned travelers: Best time to go: Opt for the dry season from May to September. Peak cr

Cali may not rival Medellíns scenic beauty or Bogotás cosmopolitan vibe, but the infectious energy of the caleños quickly captivates visitors. Rooted in a fusion of indigenous, African, and Spanish traditions, Calis culture thrives on diversity and open-mindedness. From honoring Afro-Colombian roots and modern art to salsa dancing and historic architecture, here are the top ways to immerse yourself in Calis rich culture and history. Dive into Salsa Mania No discussion of Cali is complete with

In Patagonia, the profound silence captivates first, followed by breathtaking landscapes: snow-capped mountains resembling whipped cream peaks, shimmering lakes, and aquamarine icebergs drifting past towering glaciers that dramatically calve into turquoise waters. These iconic vistas have drawn explorers for centuries, yet Patagonia offers gentler pursuits beyond rugged treks—horseback rides on verdant estancias, forest walks, cultural village visits, and boat excursions amid stunning ice fie

Rio de Janeiros summer heat often exceeds 40°C (104°F), drawing locals and visitors to crowded beaches and forest waterfalls. To avoid the throngs, head north to the refreshing hills of the Serrana region, where cooler temperatures and breathtaking scenery await. This historic area reflects the legacy of 19th-century German settlers, offering attractions like the imperial cities of Petrópolis and Teresópolis, plus a magnificent national park. Situated 70km north of Rio de Janeiro at 838m (2,7

Explore Colombias vibrant capital, Bogotá, without breaking the bank. From free walking tours to lively street festivals, heres your expert guide to maximizing every peso with authentic, low-cost experiences. Free Walking Tours in Bogotá Discover Bogotás rich history and culture through donation-based walking tours. Join Beyond Colombia for an insightful historical journey in La Candelaria. For a deeper look into Colombias social and political landscape—including the FARC conflict and peace p

Colombia now hosts the worlds largest tropical rainforest national park following the expansion of Serranía de Chiribiquete National Park. The park has grown from 2.7 million hectares to nearly 4.3 million hectares, securing its new title. This week, it was also inscribed on UNESCOs World Heritage List for its exceptional natural landscapes and ancient rock art. This biodiversity hotspot, as noted by WWF Colombia, lies at the convergence of the Amazon, Orinoquía, Andes, and Guayanés shield

While many travelers visit Peru for its lush rainforests and towering Andes, the dramatic north coast delivers a beach paradise of its own. Revel in uncrowded sands, stylish accommodations, world-class seafood, and nearby ancient archaeological sites—perfect for a relaxing coastal escape. Beyond the loungers, explore millennia of history. Peru ranks among the worlds top surfing destinations, thanks to consistent Pacific swells along its 1,000km north coast. Unlike the fog-shrouded south, this