Top 5
Top 5 - Latin America
Latin America has long been an intriguing destination for travellers, its spectacular natural wonders – from volcanoes to vast salt lakes, steamy rainforests and sun-drenched beaches – combined with fascinating indigenous cultures and the openness of its people are an irresistible draw, and in recent years improved infrastructure and the emergence of tour companies specialising in the Continent has meant that the doors to this charming land are well and truly open to all.
The sheer geographical diversity within the continent is breathtaking – even the smallest countries boast several ecosystems, from flat, arid deserts and crashing glaciers to ice-capped volcanoes and humid jungles, bottomless canyons and palm-fringed beaches to charcoal-grey lava flows and fertile farmlands – enabling the visitor to experience a range of climates and landscapes that cannot be rivalled anywhere else on the planet.
The vast differences in temperature and terrain from one end of the continent to the other means that the wildlife inhabiting its countries differs greatly – from anacondas to alpacas, sloths to sea lions, pink freshwater dolphins to penguins, and not forgetting the endemic creatures of the Galápagos Archipelago – Latin America’s flora and fauna is unequalled.
Apart from the wonders of nature that lie scattered about Latin America, its people have played the most important role in shaping its lands and creating the magnificent temples, imposing ruins and fascinating cultures we see today. From the ancient Aymara people of the Altiplano region and the mysterious Uros people that inhabit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca to the powerful civilisations of the Incas, Aztecs and Mayan people, the indigenous and seldom seen tribes of the Amazon and even the Welsh-speaking settlers in Argentina, the legacy of Latin America’s native people is evident in all corners of the continent.
So whether you fancy hiking along a glacier in Patagonia, trekking the Inca Trail to the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu, gazing down into the thunderous waters of the Devil’s Throat at Iguassu Falls, tucking into a football-sized steak in Buenos Aires, partying till dawn at the hedonistic Carnaval in Rio, swimming with giant tortoises in the Galápagos Islands, lunching on the shores of the world’s highest lake in Chile, bartering with a witch doctor in Bolivia, snacking on Ceviche in Lima or sleeping in a cloud forest in Costa Rica, Latin America is a treasure trove of experiences just waiting to be discovered.
Top 5 places to Visit
Iguassu Falls
Iguassu Falls are arguably the most impressive waterfalls in the world, 4 times the size of Niagara Falls and crossing the border between the countries of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Staring down into the roaring ‘Devils Throat’ falls is an incomparable experience.
Vast windswept plains, towering peaks, sprawling forests, immense glaciers, turquoise lakes and abundant wildlife, Patagonia is a compelling stretch of land spanning both Chile and Argentina and reaching to the very end of the world.
Galápagos Islands
The volcanic archipelago of the Galápagos Islands is one of the most remote outcrops in the world. Its isolated geography meant the island’s inhabitants were forced to evolve to suit their harsh environment, producing a land of strange and fascinating creatures.
This vast, steamy forest stretches over 8 countries in Latin America and spans an area the size of Australia. Home to one quarter of the world’s native plant species, 15,000 varieties of animal life, and 20 indigenous Indian tribes, it is a truly exceptional environment.
"The continent of Latin America is just so diverse, there is so much to see and it’s so easy to travel around that you could easily spend months, even years here and still not have seen everything."
Toby, Flight Centre New Row
Latin America Specialist
Colombia
Colombia, known as the ‘country of passion’, is a vast and varied country that offers something for everyone. Its 34 national parks boast a wide range of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to the warm beaches of the Caribbean Sea, so you are sure to find something to capture your imagination. Beginning your visit in the bustling capital of Bogotá you will uncover Colombia’s colourful history through its many museums, colonial churches and stately homes.
Perched on the southern tip of the Caribbean sits the colonial seaport of Cartagena. This former hub of the Spanish empire once captured our hearts through the epic adventure film Romancing the Stone and is recently enjoying a renaissance. Quench your thirst with a jugo de Guanábana (soursop juice) from one of the many streetside cafés and soak up the atmosphere in Colombia’s most fascinating city.
500 miles off the mainland lay the beautiful islands of San Andrés and Providencia. Surrounded by tales of piracy and conquest, it is even rumoured that the tiny Santa Catalina was the inspiration for Treasure Island. This archipelago is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and their coral reefs are perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving.
For nature lovers a visit to Tayrona National Park is a must. Dense mangrove forests, groves of coconut palms and sweeping stretches of deserted beaches combine to form a unique and breathtaking landscape. A stay in the eco-friendly thatched cabins is the perfect way to experience this wondrous environment. Colombia is a country that is begging to be discovered.
Time difference: GMT -5
When to go: Dry season: Dec–Mar or Jul–Aug.
Brazil
Brazil is a place of passionate music, pulsing energy, friendly locals and stunning natural wonders. The cultural heart of Brazil is Rio de Janeiro. The iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer stretches his arms protectively over this vibrant city, while the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema lie end-to-end, stretching out against a backdrop of sprawling favelas that cling to the mountainside.
On the border of Brazil stands the spectacular Iguassu Falls. Cascading over a precipice 3 kilometres wide, the Brazilian side of the falls has a custom-built catwalk that offers an unrivalled panoramic view of the thundering waters. The wide open spaces of the swampy, flat marshland of the Pantanal reveal masses of wildlife, from alligators to macaws, anacondas and even pumas. Further north the Amazon Jungle is brimming with flora and fauna – 60 per cent of this steamy forest lies in Brazil, so there is no better place from which to explore.
Brazil’s beaches are some of the finest in the world. Salvador is the African soul of Brazil, while the colonial towns of Búzios and Paraty are only a short distance from Rio and offer the beauty of the beaches without the crowds. The archipelago of Fernando de Noronh is home to 3 of the 5 ‘five star’ beaches in the whole of the country and is a draw to ecotouristsdue to its many conservation projects. The paradise island of Ilha Grande offers an escape from the madness of modern life – with no bank, no cars and only the sounds of the sea dancing on the breeze it is the perfect getaway.
So whether its sipping caipirinhas while watching the sun set over the Sugar Loaf Mountain in Rio, piranha fishing in the Pantanal, swimming with dolphins on the islands of Fernando de Noronha or spotting giant starfish in the crystalline waters of Ilha Grande, Brazil will leave you enchanted.
Time difference: GMT between -2 and -5
When to go: All year round. Amazon: May–Nov.
Top 5 Experiences
Rio Carnaval
Rio de Janeiro is the focal point for Brazil’s legendary Carnaval, an immense and frenetic continuous 4-day celebration of music and colour that overtakes the city around February every year. Visit Rio this year and join in the biggest party in the world.
The swampy wetlands of the Pantanal are teeming with wildlife, from giant otters to anacondas, monkeys and even the elusive puma. Fish for piranha, get up close with an alligator and take a midnight walk to spot the nocturnal animals that inhabit the marshes.
The Amazon Jungle is the largest tropical rainforest on Earth and home to such intriguing creatures as the pink freshwater dolphin, the sloth and the tiny poison dart frog. Venture into the steamy jungle to encounter its amazing inhabitants up close.
The word ‘Iguassu’ means ‘great water’ and the thunderous waters that roar down the 275 falls certainly live up to the name. Gaze in awe at this natural wonder from specially constructed walkways above the waterfalls, or hop in a boat to experience the view from below.
Samba is Brazil’s national music style, a pulsing, percussion-based rhythmic song-and-dance combination that is electrifying to observe. Witness the pinnacle of this cultural phenomenon at the vibrant parade of the country’s top samba schools during Rio’s annual Carnaval.
"There’s so much more to Brazil than just Rio, but for music, dancing, chilling out and watching the world go by, lazing on the golden sands of Copacabana Beach in the shadow of the Sugar Loaf Mountain is life as it should be lived"
Richard, Flight Centre Infinity
Latin America Specialist
Argentina
Argentina is a vast colourful country famous for tango, steaks and glaciers, but home to so much more. Boasting a staggering diversity of landscapes, the world’s eighth largest country is as different from end to end as possible, and offers the intrepid visitor a wealth of experiences to fascinate and delight.
The capital city of Buenos Aires has a distinctly European feel, but with a definite Argentinean twist. Cheer with football enthusiasts in the multi-coloured La Boca district, explore the haunting crypts in Recoleta cemetery – burial place of Evita – and catch a street tango show before dining on the finest steak in the world.
The thunderous Iguassu Falls in the north entices visitors to her roaring waters, thought to be the most breathtaking in the world. The beautifully preserved colonial town of Salta is gateway to such diverse terrain as blinding white salt flats, ochre deserts and ancient lava flows. Ski enthusiasts will adore the pristine peaks of Bariloche, while the vibrant university town of Córdoba is the perfect spot from which to explore the surrounding region with its jagged peaks and fertile hills.
Patagonia, the southernmost tip of the Continent, is a region not to be missed. This little-explored area has a wild, rugged landscape, boasts craggy glaciers and spectacular national parks and is an adventurer’s dream.
From the thundering torrents of Iguassu Falls in the north, to the forbidding ‘end-of-the-world’ at Tierra del Fuego in Southern Patagonia, and from the frenetic pace of Buenos Aires to the relaxed tranquility of the fertile wine region in the midlands, Argentina is a destination that will not disappoint.
Time difference: GMT -3
When to go: Patagonia: Oct–Apr.
Ski season: Mid Jun–Mid Oct.
Córdoba, Mendoza & Lake District: Nov–Feb
Top 5 Experiences
Lake District
Snowy Andean peaks, never-ending forests and majestic deep blue and emerald lakes fed by ice-cold rivers – the lake district around Bariloche, Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes is a haven of natural beauty offering year-round activities for all the family.
Set at the foot of the Andes, the picturesque town of Mendoza lies in a beautiful and fertile oasis at the heart of Argentina’s wine-growing region. Boasting 550 wineries, the province produces some of the world’s best wines, including the legendary Malbec.
If you would go to the ends of the earth for beauty, tranquillity and limitless horizons then embark on an adventure to the mythical ‘land of giants’ on a cruise that will take you past looming glaciers, penguin colonies and through icy-black seas, to world’s end.
The immense Perito Moreno Glacier is 30 kilometres long and towers 70 metres above the walkways built for admiring its awesome beauty. Hear the creaks and cracks like rifle shots sound as huge house-sized chunks of ice break off and fall into the black waters before your eyes.
The Tango is an intensely passionate and sensuous infusion of music and dance, and is performed all over the country’s capital Buenos Aires, from solitary couples on the cobbled streets of San Telmo to professional Tango dancers in shows complete with dinner and live music.
"Argentina is a food-lover’s dream – with amazing steak and gorgeous wines, you can feast every night for a fraction of what it would cost at home and the friendly locals and breathtaking scenery all adds to the experience."
Robin, Flight Centre Farringdon
Latin America Specialist
Chile
Local legend has it that Chile was created from the leftovers of all the wonders of the world, and it is easy to believe it of this remarkably diverse country. Locked in by the towering peaks of the Andes on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, with the formidable Atacama desert to the North, and the glacier-packed Patagonia to the South, the country is a self-contained unit, and distinct from the rest of the continent.
Chile has a land area 3 times the size of the UK, and yet most of its 15 million residents inhabit its trio of main cities. This means that vast expanses of wilderness lie untouched and waiting to be discovered by the intrepid visitor. Whether it’s trekking in the stunning Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, visiting the world’s highest lake in the Altiplano, sampling a full-bodied Merlot in the vineyards of the Maipo Valley or daring to explore the most inhospitable place on earth – the Atacama Desert – your visit to this country of contrasts will certainly be a memorable one.
For those fond of intrigue, a visit to Easter Island will not disappoint. Ponder how and why its people carved out and erected hundreds of giant stone Moai statues on the shoreline of the most isolated island on earth. And if you prefer a more relaxing holiday, then the Lake District with its emerald lakes and snow-capped volcanoes is the perfect getaway.
If you crave adventure on a grander scale we’ve even included a cruise to Antarctica where you can sail along ice-filled fiords and get up close with the local marine life. Chile’s unique string-bean shape means that a visit to the North of the country will offer a completely different experience than that of the South, but each one unforgettable.
Time difference: GMT -4 (Easter Island: GMT -6) When to go: Atacama & Altiplano – all year round, but heavy rain in highlands between Jan & Feb. Easter Island and the Wine Valleys – all year round. Lake District and Patagonia – best from Oct–Apr.
Top 5 Experiences
Atacama Desert
The formidable Atacama is one of the most inhospitable terrains in the world, and has the distinction of being the driest desert on Earth. Visitors will be awed by the crystal clear star-crowded skies, vast desert plains and beautiful oases still inhabited by hardy locals.
This world heritage site is wild and beautiful, with a diverse terrain encompassing immense glaciers, jagged mountains, sprawling forests and emerald-coloured lakes. Brimming with wildlife, this untamed land is just waiting to be explored.
The Altiplano sits at an altitude of 4,000 feet above sea level, and is a land of immense geoglyphs (giant groundetchings), sand-preserved mummies, ancient shepherding communities, abundant wildlife and the recordbreaking highest lake in the world.
The volcanic Easter Island is the most remote island on Earth and home to the intriguing Moai – giant carved heads placed throughout the island, their meaning still disputed today. Visit this beautiful Polynesian land to ponder the mystery yourself.
Chilean wine is internationally renowned, and the Chilean winelands are home to some of the world’s most distinguished vineyards. Watch the sun set over the picture-postcard beauty of the valleys with a glass of the finest Chilean Merlot.
"Chile is such a long, thin country that the north is completely different to the south so it’s possible to trek across a desert, visit the highest lake in the world and climb a glacier all without crossing any borders!"
Deborah, Flight Centre Euston Road
Latin America Specialist
Ecuador
Ecuador, the smallest of the Andean nations, stands out proudly against the others, and is an intriguing destination. The remarkable thing about Ecuador is that it is split into 3 regions, each of which has its own landscape, focus and distinct personality. This gives the visitor the chance to experience 3 different holidays in one – whether it’s climbing the highest peaks of the ice-capped Andes that divide the country, lounging on the tropical beaches of the sun- drenched Pacific to the west, or spotting one of the 4,500 species of butterfly in the tropical lowlands of the Amazon in the east, each adventure will be unique.
This diminutive country may only have a 2 per cent share of the Amazon rainforest, but it has one of the world’s best developed infrastructures for rainforest tourism, and most destinations are accessible within a day’s journey from the capital, Quito. The indigenous tribes that live in Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest are the ancient keepers and guardians of the world’s biological heritage. Having lived there for more than 10,000 years, they know its trees, its animals, and its rhythms better than anyone.
Ecuador lies on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’ – a ring of seismic activity in the Pacific. Of the 55 volcanoes on this tiny country, 8 of them are active, and as such it is one of the most volcanically active areas on the continent, with little eruptions every few months. It is also home to over 1,600 species of bird and 3,500 species of orchids – a greater number than any other country on earth.
The biodiversity present in this modest country combined with the stunning natural beauty, exciting volcanic activity and the friendliness of the poncho-wearing indígenas (locals) can promise the lucky visitor a unique 3-in-1 experience that few countries can claim.
Time difference: GMT -5
When to go: Midlands and Amazon: Jun–Sep Coast: Dec–Apr.
Top 5 Experiences
Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos are the most intriguing group of volcanic islands in the world, so isolated that their inhabitants have evolved independently of any other species on earth. This fascinating archipelago is an unspoilt wilderness teeming with weird and wonderful creatures.
Ecuador’s ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’ is a 325 kilometres long valley between the major Cordillera ranges and boasts some of the world’s highest volcanic peaks. Crossing these imposing volcanoes on the ‘Chiva Express’ is an exhilarating ride through unforgettable landscapes.
The Andean markets of Ecuador are the most colourful and traditional places in the land. They are the cultural soul of the country, where you can barter with native Indians for anything from jewellery and ceramics to textiles and livestock.
The country’s capital is divided in two halves; the old town is a jumble of narrow streets and wide, cobbled plazas lined with churches, monasteries, mansions and colourful balconied houses, while the new town is fresh and modern, with stylish restaurants and trendy bars.
Ecuador is arguably the best country from which to visit the impressive Amazon Jungle – with a well-established infrastructure for eco-tourism this little country stands out among all others to provide an unforgettable rainforest experience.
"Ecuador is amazingly diverse despite its small size – from volcanoes to beaches, colonial cities to uninhabited islands you can find it all with a great climate and laid back culture. Be sure to try the natural hot-water spas in Banos"
Sean, Flight Centre Baker Street
Latin America Specialist
Galapagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands were once thought of as a forsaken land of unearthly creatures and lava wastes. Straddling the equator off the coast of Ecuador, the isolated geography of this volcanic archipelago meant its inhabitants evolved to suit their unique surroundings. These strange beings have captured the imagination and interest of humans for centuries. Now the islands are a popular destination for those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime journey to glimpse a unique ecosystem and marvel at the work of nature.
In 1835, the English naturalist Charles Darwin visited the islands and discovered what he called his ‘living laboratory’, which inspired his writings on the Theory of Evolution. Many of the animals on the Galápagos Islands have developed into different species from their continental relatives, and because they have never experienced man as a predator, they show no fear of humans. You can float eye to eye with the only penguins found north of the equator, stand next to a blue-footed booby as it feeds its young or swim with the frolicking sea lions known as the ‘Unofficial Welcoming Committee’ of the Galápagos.
Sail around the islands where you can enjoy such incomparable experiences as swimming with hammerhead sharks, marvelling at the size of the famous Galápagos tortoise – the largest living tortoise on earth and from whom the island takes its name – and diving in the second largest marine reserve in the world. You can also visit the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, photograph flamingos on Fernandina Island and observe the prehistoric-looking marine iguanas on the seahorse-shaped Isabela Island. A voyage to this intriguing ecological wonderland is an experience to treasure.
Time difference: GMT: -6
When to go: All year round. Jan–Jun is warm and wet. Jul–Dec is dry and cool.
Top 5 Experiences
Bartolomé Island
This island offers some of the most beautiful moonlike landscapes in the archipelago, and is home to the iconic Galápagos landmark of Pinnacle Rock, around which visitors can snorkel with the wonderfully friendly Galapagos penguins.
Punta Espiñosa on Fernandina Island is one of the best locations for animal spotting and home to a colony of dinosaur-like marine iguanas as well as the fearless flightless cormorants, noisy sea lions and flame-coloured crabs.
Isla Española is home to one of the most spectacular beaches in the archipelago at Gardner Bay on the northeast side of the island, as well as boasting fields of the strange and special blue-footed boobies, one of the many endemic species in the Galápagos.
The seahorse-shaped Isabela Island is the largest in the archipelago. The island comprises of 6 volcanoes, several of which are still active, so visitors can explore jagged lava flows, craggy craters and still-grumbling volcanic formations, all inhabited by a whole host of fascinating creatures.
Situated on Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora is a friendly and bustling little port, home to the islands’ best hotels, restaurants and bars, as well as the Charles Darwin Research Station, the location of all study and conservation projects for this unique archipelago.
"The fearlessness of the wildlife in the Galápagos means you can really get up close and personal with the endemic creatures. Make sure to book early as the Galápagos National Park limits the number of tourists and boats allowed each year."
Camilla, Flight Centre Southampton Street
Latin America Specialist
Peru
The enigmatic country of Peru has for centuries been an irresistible draw to explorers, archaeologists, historians and adventurers. Nestled on the continent’s west coast, the country boasts a wealth of history and culture and visitors can be assured the secrets of Peru will reveal themselves to all who take the time to enquire within.
Once home to the largest empire in the world – that of the sun-worshipping Incas – Peru was plundered for its gold by the Spanish Conquistadores in the 16th Century. The capital of the Incan Empire was Cuzco and it is from here that the most iconic Peruvian landmark can be reached – the ruins of ‘The Lost City of the Incas’ at Machu Picchu. Although just 80 kilometres from Cuzco, its isolated geography meant it was never discovered by the looting Spanish. Lost for centuries, the ruins remained undiscovered until an intrepid American archaeologist stumbled across them in 1911.
Peru’s treasures are abundant, from the white stone city of Arequipa overlooked by El Misti volcano to the immense Colca Canyon, twice the size of the Grand Canyon. Iquitos is an eco-tourist’s dream, nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, and Lake Titicaca is home to the mystical Uros people, guardians of the lake. Travel to the arid Nazca Desert and marvel at the mysterious 1,000 year-old giant symbols etched on the desert floor. Sample the national dish of Ceviche – fresh fish marinated in lime juice – in the capital Lima, or trek in the Peruvian Andes to survey the indigenous home of the Quechua people.
The nation’s roots lie firmly in its ethnic traditions and ancient history and a visit to Peru will leave you with a profound respect for the wealth of human culture and awesome natural and manmade wonders evident in this captivating land.
Time difference: GMT -5
When to go: Wet season Dec–Mar.
Inca Trail closed in Feb.
Top 5 Experiences
Machu Picchu
The iconic Machu Picchu is home to the mystical ‘Lost City of the Incas’ and is Peru’s most famous attraction. These jungle-shrouded ruins were lost for centuries and only rediscovered by an intrepid American explorer in 1911, who stumbled across them almost by accident.
The Sacred Valley was the heart of the Incan Empire and its capital was the city of Cuzco. This vast fertile valley is dotted with remarkable Incan ruins, quaint Andean markets and impressive churches and still houses the last vestiges of this incredible empire.
The mighty Amazon River snakes through the steamy jungle and offers a unique perspective of the rainforest and its intriguing inhabitants. Witness sloths lazily hanging from treetops as your journey is accompanied by pink freshwater dolphins gliding along beside the boat.
Arequipa is also known as ‘the white city’, owing to its majestic colonial buildings constructed of pearly white volcanic rock. It is the gateway to the Colca Canyon – over twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and home to the graceful Andean Condor, an endangered species.
The Incan people were a highly advanced civilisation with a fascinating and turbulent history. Although the empire was wiped out by the Conquistadores in the 16th Century strong cultural traditions still remain in the ethnic groups of the Quechuas and Aymara people.
"A picturesque village set high in the Andes, Cuzco’s history and scenery is second to none. Be adventurous and explore the countryside or just relax in one of the many cafés and have your first taste of the Peruvian delicacy guinea pig!"
Logan, Flight Centre New Malden
Latin America Specialist
Cuzco and Machu Picchu
The fascinating city of Cuzco was once the capital of the Incan Empire, destroyed in the 16th Century by the Spanish Conquistadores who plundered the city and its surroundings for its gold. Only 80 kilometres from Cuzco, nestled among dense jungle and situated on a mountain ridge, lies the renowned Incan site of Machu Picchu. Built in the 1400s, it too was abandoned during the Spanish conquest, but was never found by the Conquistadores due to its inaccessible location. The site remained hidden for almost 500 years, until the intrepid American explorer Hiram Bingham stumbled across the jungle-shrouded ruins having been led there by native Quechuan people. And so the legendary ‘Lost City of the Incas’ was discovered, and Machu Picchu came to be regarded worldwide as an iconic emblem of the ingenuity of the Incan people.
Nowadays these ruins are the most visited attraction in Peru. Travel to the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas, throughout which impressive ancient ruins lie scattered about. Visit the ruins around the city of Cuzco including Sacsayhuaman, the old walled complex which forms the head of a Puma when seen from above. Then embark on a 4-day trek through the jungle or board the train for a picturesque journey through the valley to visit the ruins at Machu Picchu and marvel at the skilled architecture employed to construct the palaces, temples, storehouses and terraces that make up the celebrated Lost City.
Time difference: GMT -5
When to go: Wet season Dec–Mar.
Inca Trail closed in Feb.
"The 4-day trek through jungles and over mountains to the ruins of Machu Picchu is pretty tough, but arriving at the Sun Gate before dawn to catch your first glimpse of the Lost City at sunrise makes it all worthwhile."
Yvette, Flight Centre Queensway
Latin America Specialist
Bolivia
The landlocked nation of Bolivia is a country lost in time, protected from the intrusions of the outside world by its unique geographical position. A visit to Bolivia will reveal an impossibly varied land and its fascinating indigenous people. Thanks to its varied geography, it is possible to pass through several climatic zones in a matter of hours and experience contrasting terrain and mythical ancient cultures. From the high, dry plateau of the Altiplano to the west and lush rainforests in the southeast; sprawling grasslands in the north and the towering peaks of the Andes dissecting the country, the question of ‘what to see?’ quickly becomes ‘what to see first?’
A visit to the capital city of La Paz will reveal a startling juxtaposition of the modern and the traditional – commercial centres stand alongside indigenous markets where native Indians sell their wares. To the northwest lies the historic heartland of Lake Titicaca. Known as the ‘cradle of civilisation’, the roots of Andean culture were formed on its shores. Take a trip to the floating islands of the lake and meet the mystical Uros people, guardians of the lake and its waters.
A journey along the windswept expanse of the Altiplano reveals the breathtaking Uyuni Salt Lake. The flat, vastness of this dried-up, prehistoric lake contains over 10 billion tons of salt. The Amazonian east of the country boasts sparse savannahs and grasslands merging into marshlands and jungle. The tropical rainforests are teeming with more exotic bird species than the US and Canada combined.
Bolivia is the least visited country in Latin America, and as such has retained much of its charm and unspoilt landscapes. Bolivia’s tagline – Lo autentico aun existe – the real thing still exists – perfectly sums up this enigmatic land.
Time difference: GMT -4
When to go: May–Oct
"Make sure you take the time out to explore the mind-blowing salt flats of Bolivia, with their blindingly white lunar landscapes, spouting geysers and huge flocks of flamingos – definitely some of the most amazing landscapes on earth."
Scott, Flight Centre Shaftsbury Avenue
Latin America Specialist
Mexico
Mexico is technically part of North America, but its heart truly belongs to Latin America. This Spanish-speaking country is a mish mash of the modern and the traditional, from the ancient Mayan ruins of the Yucatán Peninsula to the frenetic metropolis of Mexico City. From the picturesque tranquility of the tropical beach towns of Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán to the mariachiplaying sombrero-wearing energy of Guadalajara, this country’s charm is more intoxicating than the tequila you will no doubt sample before the end of your visit.
Mexico’s character is at once clichéd and unique, boasting a landscape that includes snow-capped volcanoes, industrialised cities, glitzy seaside resorts and elegant colonial towns. It is also home to the famous Mayan pyramids of Chichén-Itzá. Over 1,500 years old, these well-preserved and fascinating ruins are located only 75 miles from Mérida on the road to Cancún.
The handsome and lively colonial city of San Cristóbal de las Casas is a magnet for travellers seeking an authentic Mexican experience, as is Guadalajara, the birthplace of tequila, sombreros, and the Mexican Hat Dance – these towns will allow you to immerse yourself in Mexican culture and enjoy a lively nightlife scene to boot.
So whether you enjoy exploring crumbling ruins, cheering wildly at a charreada (rodeo), practising your Spanish while bartering with Maya women for handmade souvenirs or sipping margaritas on a palm-fringed beach overlooking an azure sea, Mexico will serve you up a holiday made to order.
Time difference: GMT -6/-8 – depending on area
When to go: All year round (Oct–May most pleasant)
"Mexico City is really vibrant, stroll around the Zocalo – the historic heart of the city – and sip an aromatic coffee in one of the many cafés before exploring the capital’s historical attractions. After dark head to a club such as Mama Rumba and learn to dance Cuban style."
Sarah, Flight Centre Surbiton
Latin America Specialist
Costa Rica
Welcome to Costa Rica Costa Rica is a tiny country in Central America sandwiched between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and the Caribbean Sea. The country has a reputation for peacefulness, and arriving on its shores you will instantly be seduced by its slow pace of life. The natural beauty of the country is astounding – the varied geography of the region means you can climb a volcano in the morning and enjoy an afternoon lazing on a tropical beach before drifting off to sleep in a cloud forest surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.
One of the most bio diverse areas on the planet, Costa Rica is an ecological treasure trove – its rainforests, beaches, mangrove swamps and volcanoes support a staggering array of wildlife. Howler monkeys compete for the visitor’s gaze along with toucans, armadillos and more, although thankfully the elusive jaguar remains largely out of sight. The country is a pioneer in eco-tourism, and has stated that it wants to become the first carbon neutral country by 2021.
From Sarapiqui’s lush tropical rainforests to the rugged Arenal Volcano National Park with its ethereal Hanging Bridges, there is much to see in Costa Rica. The capital city of San José is a bustling modern city, boasting lively expressions of art and architecture, vibrant colourful markets and a chic nightlife, perfect for beginning or ending your Costa Rican adventure.
Above all, the Costa Rican people, or Ticos, will welcome you to their beautiful country with a warm smile and an open heart, their family values and rural way of life will charm you, leaving you with a profound respect for this progressive yet deeply traditional country.
Time difference: GMT -6
When to go: All year round.
Dry season: Dec–Apr. Wet season: Rest of year
"Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise, full of exotic flora and fauna, including the lazy 3-toed sloth! The destination is sure to appeal to your sense of adventure, from the tropical rainforests to the stunning Pacific coast. Me encanta Costa Rica!"
Sarah, Flight Centre Croydon
Latin America Specialist
