Latin America has twenty countries and a population almost twice that of the United States. You’ve probably heard of or even been to Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, or Mexico City. But that leaves many other beautiful cities and places to visit on this continent. If you are an experienced traveler looking for a new adventure or someone who wants to take a few days away from the tourist places, this list is for you.

Uruguay

Across the Río de la Plata from Buenos Aires, Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo, is an Old World city of cobbled streets and sycamore trees that cast shadows. Founded in 1811 after a war of independence against Spain, Brazil, Argentina and Portugal, Uruguay is today a liberal stronghold in South America. In 2013 they legalized same-sex marriage and cannabis, which is sure to influence the way people have fun in Punta del Este, a glamorous resort town in the far eastern part of the country. This is where Uruguayan glitterati are housed during the summer months (winter in North America). For a more relaxing stay, the UNESCO-listed city of Colonia del Sacramento is located in the far western part of the country, across the river from Argentina. Founded in 1680, Colonia is one of the oldest European settlements in Uruguay, and is a beautiful, peaceful getaway from Montevideo or Buenos Aires.

Panama

Often overshadowed by its northern neighbor Costa Rica, Panama has a major metropolis, affordable prices, and worldly culture. Panama City uses the dollar as its currency, although the locals call it a balboa. Depending on who you ask, its economy is the third or fourth largest in Latin America, as well as the fastest growing. Old Panama, north of the capital, was a haven for pirates in the 17th century and its ruins still stand. Meanwhile, Panama City is abuzz with new restaurants, cafes, and art galleries, where expats from around the world speak a variety of languages. Recent development has made the skyline of Panama City teeming with skyscrapers. Due to its unique geography, it is possible to visit the Atlantic and Pacific oceans on the same day. Along the way, stop at Chagres National Park, home to lush rainforests, rivers, lakes, and artesian aquifers that provide the world with high-quality artesian water, as well as plants and animals, some of which can only be found there.

Colombia

The third largest economy in Latin America is in Colombia, home to many stereotypes and beautiful places. Cartagena is only the fifth largest city in the country, but it has a wealth of history. This Caribbean port has been a center of human activity for at least six thousand years. Today Cartagena is a quiet town with a beautiful walled city. On the other hand, the capital of Colombia, Bogotá is among the thirty largest cities in the world. Crime levels in this city have dropped dramatically since the early 1990s, when it used to be one of the most dangerous cities in the world. The Gold Museum and the historic district are the main attractions. If that’s not your speed, Santa Marta is another port city, the second oldest city in South America and the oldest in Colombia. The nearby mangrove forests are ideal for exploring during the day and then spending a night out at Parque de los Novios.

Ecuador

Along with the city of Krakow, Quito was the first UNESCO World Heritage site. At 9,350 feet, it is one of the tallest capitals in the world. It may take a day or two to acclimatise, but once you do, it is well worth it. The equator runs through a town just a short drive away, which means you can easily move from the northern half of the world to the south with just a short walk. Cuenca is another city worth visiting, with a rich colonial history and proximity to Las Cajas National Park, at approximately 10,000 feet, with crystal clear lakes that reflect the nearby Andes. The Galapagos are one of the reasons why Ecuador is one of the seventeen megadiverse countries in the world, which takes into account the biodiversity of a nation. It costs roughly $ 250 roundtrip for a 45-minute flight from Guayaquil, the country’s largest city, and compared to a long boat ride for roughly the same price, it’s well worth it. Ecuador’s new constitution of 2008 is the only one that recognizes the Rights of Nature, which legally enforce the protection of ecosystems.

Belize

Belize, home to the second largest reef in the world, is nestled in the middle of the nearly 1,000-mile-long Mesoamerican Reef System. A diver’s paradise, Belize has far fewer tourists than its southern neighbors. Its wildlife reserves are home to jaguars and scarlet macaws, both native to the region. Belize is also the only English-speaking nation in Latin America, making it easy for Americans to get around, although an English-Spanish Creole is commonly spoken. For those interested in cultural exploration, there are Mayan ruins throughout this country, especially in the south. Caracol was one of the main regional political centers during the classical Mayan era and its ruins continue to be of archaeological importance today. Visitors to Chichén Itzá can find a respite from the hustle and bustle of tourism in the north in Belize.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *