1. Valparaiso, Chile

Imagine your ideal travel destination. If it includes a colorful city on the edge of the water with sweeping mountain views, beautiful street art at every turn, and the most delicious seafood you’ve ever had, then you’ve named Valparaiso, Chile! The Jewel of The Pacific, as it’s known, is located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Valparaiso has always been known for its bohemian feel and still maintains it today with murals, graffiti, and other artworks covering most walls throughout the city. Be sure to visit Caleta Portales (Fisherman’s Cove) and wander the stalls of freshly caught seafood. The sight alone of so many fish is worth the trip! No trip to Valparaiso would be complete without a ride on the unique funiculars located throughout the city. Be sure to go up to the top of Cerro Alegre (Alegre Hill) for amazing views of the entire city of Valparaiso.

2. Ushuaia, Argentina

Have you always wanted to say that you’ve been to the end of the world? Well, now you can after your trip to Ushuaia! Known as the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is breathtaking. With the Martial Mountains as its backdrop, sunsets are spectacular. The city is a great base for exploring Tierra Del Fuego (Land Of Fire) National Park. You can go hiking, camping, or kayaking within the national park. Another day trip is to visit Isla Martillo to view penguins in their natural habitat. There are various types of species of penguins that don’t mind visitors and will carry on as if you weren’t there! If you can make it down this far in southern Argentina, Ushuaia will reward you with its natural beauty.

3. Atacama Desert, Chile

While Valparaiso is a few hours south of the Atacama Desert, you would never know that you are still in Chile as the two places are not even comparable. 4,000 meters above sea level, Atacama is known for being the driest place on planet Earth. It is also known for its Mars-like rock formations, geysers, salt flats, and blue lagoons. Some of these natural formations are only found in the Atacama desert. When night falls, Atacama really comes alive with one of the most stunning and clearest displays of stars one can ever see. If you get the chance, don’t miss out on sandboarding. For many, it becomes the highlight of their entire trip!

4. Baños, Ecuador

At first glance, Baños is a small, sleepy town located in central Ecuador. With Tungurahua Volcano looming over the town, it makes its presence known with the occasional plumes of ash spitting from its peak. Just like the volcano, at second glance, Baños is teeming with activity. From adventures sports (canyoning, swing jumping) to sights (Casa Del Arbol/ Treehouse) to incredible nature (Ruta de las Cascades/ Waterfall Road), Baños is easy to fall in love with. Be sure to check out Pailon Del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron) for up-close views of this massive waterfall. At night, check out Luna Runtun Spa. Relax in various hot tubs after a long day of adventure and enjoy an incredible view of Baños. While Baños can be easy to dismiss, once you get to know it, you’ll find yourself wanting to come back and visit this gem again.

5. Salento, Colombia

Hidden within the foothills of the Quindio region in central Colombia, lies a small town that is known for its palm trees and coffee. Most people visit the town to go see the Wax Palm Trees in the nearby Cocora Valley that is the national tree and symbol of Colombia. The hike is stunning and has an easy, circuitous route to follow. However, going to Colombia’s “Coffee Triangle” and not visiting a coffee plantation is almost a crime. There are several in the region to choose from and you can’t go wrong with any of them. Guaranteed you will have the freshest cup of coffee you’ve ever had! (No cream or sugar needed). At night, go play Tejo at Los Amigos. The Colombian game mixes alcohol, explosives, and horseshoes…nothing will go wrong! At least, you’ll make new friends with locals!

6. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil

Waterfalls are beautiful. That’s a fact. However, Iguazu Falls stands out among waterfalls. It is seen as a natural wonder of the world. Iguazu is actually a collection of 275 individual waterfalls that spans 1.7 miles. Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, the area receives over a million visitors each year. You are able to view the falls from either side of the border, but 80% of the falls are in Argentina. While only 20% of the falls are situated in Brazil, it offers the most comprehensive view and the best lighting of the falls, so be sure to head there in the morning for Instagram worthy pictures.

7. Carrasco National Park, Bolivia

Bolivia is one of the most overlooked countries in South America by visitors. That may soon change as the country is teeming with nature, culture, and adventure. One of the hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered is Carrasco National Park. Located near the city of Cochabamba, Carrasco has incredible biodiversity due to a variety of ecosystems meeting together. It is possible to see jaguars, pumas, anacondas, various types of monkeys, and over 400 different species of birds to name a few! Be sure to hire a guide to get the most out of your trip to the national park. They know the best spots within the 6,000 square kilometer park and can help you find any flora or fauna that you are wanting to see.

The real question is: What are you waiting for? These destinations and many more in South America are just waiting for you to experience them!

Not done exploring? Why not check out:

• 7 Stunning Locations You Need To Experience In North America
• 7 Stunning Locations You Need To Experience In Canada

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1. Valle De La Luna

Moon Valley as it is known in English, has some fascinating rock formations that have been carved out of thousands of years by wind and water. Its landscape is often used by NASA for testing their new rovers due to the environments tough terrain and rocks. Today, many visitors come from all over to see these strange rock formations. They are stunning and many look like man-made sculptures. Interestingly enough, much of the area used to be a salt lake that dried up and now looks the way it does. It is also impossible for humans or animals to live in this area due to the complete lack of humidity. One thing Moon Valley does have going for it is its incredible sunsets. Honestly, I do not think I’ve seen a more beautiful sunset. Imagine beautiful rocks covered in a fiery, orange hue as darkness falls upon the desert. The sunset alone is worth coming to Moon Valley for.

2. El Tatio Geysers

You know when they say the expression, “The early bird gets the worm”, they are talking about getting up absurdly early. Well, I’m pretty sure the person that made this expression up was talking about the El Tatio Geysers because you have to arrive early to get a glimpse of this unique natural phenomenon. You’ll have to get up early. 4 AM early. With all this being said, the geysers are well worth the trip. El Tatio (The Oven), the third-biggest geyser field in the world, is home to over 80 geysers. While the geysers may be warm, the air is freezing cold so you’ll want to wear as many layers as possible. (Now you may ask why it is so cold in a desert. Great question! The Atacama Desert is about 4,000 meters or 13,000 feet above sea level.) Regardless, just getting to the geysers is a journey. You will go over incredibly bumpy dirt roads and it will be completely dark out except for the bright stars. Once you do arrive around sunrise, you’ll see the geysers steaming and suddenly the entire area will be filled with steam. Think of the geysers as a natural Jacuzzi. Once it warms up a bit, it is time to take a dip in the hot springs that are also on site. The combination of getting up early, going for a refreshing swim in hot springs, and fresh breakfast makes for a morning well spent!

3. Stargazing

It’s no coincidence that the driest place on planet Earth also has some of the best stargazing known to man. Wherever you are staying in town, it’s hard not to see the incredibly bright stars, but to get the best view you have to go on a tour outside of town. The Atacama is home to the largest public observatory in South America and you can find tours. The two and half hour tour that is lead by a local astronomer will run you through how to look for constellations, tell you about the history behind each Zodiac, and will go more in depth about specific stars in the sky. The best part is that there are 10 different telescopes on site that allow you to see constellations, nebulas, and stars close up. Funny enough, the only time the tours do not run is when there is a full moon out because the moon is too bright to view others stars. Problems that only occur in the driest place on Earth.

4. Laguna Baltinache

 

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20 minutes outside of the town, lies a secret lagoon. In fact, there are seven of these hidden lagoons. The best way to describe the area would be to tell you to imagine Lake Louise from Banff National Park in the middle of a desert. The water has the same aqua blue color that Canada’s Lake Louise has. The best time to go is in the morning before tour groups arrive during the day, but you have to rent a car and go. The best part about the lagoons is that you can take a swim in them to cool off and enjoy the otherwise bizarre scenery. Be sure to check out Laguna Baltinache when visiting the Atacama Desert.

5. Chacabuco Nitrate Village

 

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Another interesting fact about the Atacama Desert—as if there were not enough already—is that it is home to some of the largest nitrate reserves in the world. Nitrate was known as White Gold and many came to the desert to get rich quick. Eventually, all of the countries in the surrounding area when to war over the region. Eventually, scientists figured out how to mass produce nitrogen on an industrial level and the mining was rendered useless. Today, there are tons of these nitrate ghost mining towns all over northern Chile. Unfortunately, many of the former mining towns became prisons for political prisoners during Pinochet’s ruling during the 1970’s. The most well known of these mining towns is Chacabuco that was shut down in 1938. Located only about an hour and a half drive from the Atacama, Chacabuco is spread out, but remarkably, still has quite a few buildings that are standing to this day. The town had everything you needed for daily life from food halls to entertainment. The sites were designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2005.

Suggested next reading: Why A Visit To Pucón, Chile Is An Absolute Must

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1. Miraflores

Ask for recommendations from anyone, myself included, and the first area that they’ll mention as one of the best places to see in Lima is the Miraflores district. There are quite a few things to do in the area. The district has a lovely boardwalk with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean that is definitely worth checking out. I would recommend packing a lunch and renting a bike to tour the boardwalk. The views of the cliffs that tower above you are stunning. Speaking of the cliffs, if you are a daredevil and always searching for your next adrenaline rush, you can head to Antonio Raimondi Park, pay about $50 USD for a ten minutes paragliding adventure. The weather conditions have to be clear for you to take off so if it’s cloudy or looks like it may rain, you won’t be able to paraglide. Finally, be sure to head to Huaca Pucllana, an adobe and clay pyramid that used to be an important ceremonial site for native people. It was said to have been used between 200 to 700 AD. Miraflores is filled with a diverse amount of activities and things to do that it would be easy to spend all of your time in Miraflores, but there is much more to explore in Lima.

2. Plaza Mayor

The area is known as either Plaza Mayor or Plaza de Armas. Whatever you may call it, Plaza Mayor is the historic district of Lima that dates back to the 16^th Century. This is the birthplace of the city and is still the heart of Lima to this day. The district is filled with incredible colonial architecture from cathedrals to palaces and other buildings. It is a large area so there is a good amount of things to see. The main centerpiece of the square is the Presidential Palace. Its dramatic presence is hard to ignore as it watches over the entire square. Beyond Plaza Mayor, I highly recommend walking around the surrounding neighborhoods and taking a look at the beautiful, colorful buildings. All of the buildings were built in the colonial style. The area is definitely worth checking out.

3. Santo Domingo

 

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I can easily say that Santo Domingo is one of the most stunning churches I’ve seen in South America and across the world. Considered to be one of Lima’s most religious structures, the pink building was built in the16^th Century and was originally a convent. It’s important in Peruvian culture as it is the resting place for some of the country’s most important saints so it is well known by everyone. The church and convent are extremely well preserved and the outdoor area is a peaceful place to take a stroll. In my opinion, one of the most impressive parts of the church were the tiles on the outside of it. They were brought in from Seville and date to the early 1600’s. Some of them are damaged, but the majority look like they were put in place that morning. If you visit Plaza Mayor, Santo Domingo is only a short 10-minute walk north so it’s possible to see both areas in one day.

4. Chorrillos Fisherman Pier

I’ll admit right away that there was no way I would have ever considered seeing this pier if it wasn’t for a local friend of mine who toured the city with me (sometimes it helps to know a local when you travel!) If you are looking for fresh, affordable ceviche, look no further because you need to head to the Chorrillos Fisherman Pier. This is where locals eat their ceviche and it is, by far, the best I’ve ever had. You can’t go wrong at any of the ceviche restaurants because the fish they use was pulled fresh from the ocean that same day. Ceviche is a national Peruvian dish that consists of fresh fish, lime juice, onions. It typically comes with corn and sweet potato. I also loved walking around the stalls at the market. They were filled with fresh fish such as crabs, scallops, and crabs. It all looks amazing! If you don’t like eating fish, Chorrillos is also a great place to take a scenic boat ride and see what Lima looks like from the water. Be sure to escape the fast pace of the city at the Chorrillos Fisherman Pier and enjoy a more tranquilo moment as locals would say.

 

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5. Museo Del Pisco

If you weren’t aware, Peruvians are very proud of their pisco brandy. They claim to have the best pisco in the world and they have a fierce rivalry with Chile in this category. I’ve tried both and I have to say that…both are equally delicious. To understand more about pisco and its importance in Peruvian culture, head to the Museo Del Pisco (Pisco Museum). You’ll learn all about the history of pisco, how it is made, where it’s grown, and the different types of pisco. Of course, it’s important to try pisco to understand what locals and visitors alike are raving about. You’ll quickly realize how seriously they take their pisco. Either way, I recommend doing a pisco tasting to try out different flavors and see which one you like the best. By the time you leave the Museo Del Pisco, you’ll officially be a pisco snob.

While visiting all the best places to see in Lima make sure, at some point, to try Alpaca A La Parrilla, one of Peru’s signature dishes.

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Villarrica Volcano

Villarrica is breathtaking and looms large over Pucón, but is considered to be one of Chile’s most active volcanoes. The volcano’s activity is monitored and there are daily reports made by the national park. If they deem it too dangerous to climb due to activity or poor weather such as a rain or snowstorm, no tours are allowed to operate. It last erupted in March of 2015 so the risk of it happening again is very possible, but makes climbing the volcano that much more thrilling. It is not possible to climb it on your own so you must go with a licensed guide. In town, it is easy to find tour operators and they all offer the same thing. It all comes down to price and who you feel the most comfortable with. In peak season, groups fill up fast so if you know you are going to be in the area during a certain month, book ahead of time to save yourself any frustration that may arise from waiting last minute. The hike is no joke (you’ll be feeling sore the next day) and you’ll be equipped with all of the necessary equipment to get to the top. The hike up takes about four hours while the way down, which you sled for a good section of it, takes only 45 minutes. Getting to the top and seeing the lava bubbling up was one of the most exhilarating experiences I’ve had in my life, and so if you ever find yourself in Chile, hiking Villarrica Volcano is a can’t miss adventure.

Winter Activities

While hiking Villarrica is thrilling, can you imagine skiing down the volcano? Pucón is Chile’s cold weather adventure destination. It’s well known to all Chileans. That can be done during the winter months, May to August. The skiing and snowboarding are considered to be some of the best in Chile and South Americans come from all over the continent to ski and snowboard in Pucón. It’s the go-to place for winter activities in South America. If you really want to have a unique experience, you can try your hand at dog-sledding. While dog-sledding may be associated with Alaska and other freezing Arctic regions, you’ll find the practice alive and well in Pucón. Of course, if you need a spa day from all of those cold weather activities, that can easily be accomplished in any local spa, which Pucón has many to choose from within the city center and its outskirts. It’s hard to beat a nice, warm sauna session while overlooking Villarrica Volcano.

Summer Activities

It is only within the last few years that Pucón has been known as a warm-weather destination, thanks to the marketing done by Chile’s tourism department. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can hike a snow-rich volcano in the morning and be lounging on the black sand beach and taking a jet-ski out for a spin in the afternoon. That’s a hard combination to beat when you have the best of both worlds. One of the most well-known summer activities in Pucón is river rafting, some of the best in the country. The guides that navigate these dangerous waters are some of the most experienced and well respected in the world. They even work the offseason in the US, Canada, and other countries around the world. The Trancura River rafting is the most intense and is the most popular among visitors. The lower Trancura River has Grade III rapids which are perfect for beginners. The higher part of the river, however, is another story. It contains Grade V and even Grade VI rapids. These are expert level rapids and should only be attempted under the direct supervision of professional guides. If you are looking for a more relaxed experience, head to the Termas Geometricas. The natural hot springs situated about an hour from Pucón is well worth the trip if you are looking for complete relaxation. The Japanese inspired hot springs are tucked away in the forest and there are 17 pools in total at the spa. The hot springs are a maze to navigate, but that’s part of the appeal of getting lost in the experience. Finally, a fun experience in Pucón is to horseback ride to a hidden waterfall in the forest with a local guide. The waterfall is a 20-minute ride into the forest but is breathtaking once you arrive and see how massive it is. It’s hard to fit in all of the activities in Pucón with this much to do.

Delicious Food

Pucón is a resort town which attracts people from all over the world that want to try local Chilean food. Surprisingly, for such a small town, Pucón’s food scene is well worth taking a bite out of. A local treat that must be had is the trout. The rivers all around the town are filled with trout and it is a favorite food of locals, found in pretty much every restaurant. You may never have fresher fish in your life! Another must-try food is the Chilean empanadas. They are portable so often times they are a great food for hikes. Try the ones stuffed with cheese and shrimp. They are to die for! Finally, you can’t miss trying Choripan. It is a simple sandwich that consists only of sausage and bread, but its flavor packs quite the punch. Other countries in South America may be more well known for their food, but Chilean dishes are nothing to sleep on and are well worth trying as you visit Pucón.

Suggested next reading: 7 Unique South American Dishes You Definitely Have To Try

The post Why A Visit To Pucón, Chile Is An Absolute Must appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Innovation

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re quite aware that Medellín used to be considered a dangerous city. In an attempt to revamp its image (quite successfully might I add), Medellín decided to become one of the most innovative cities, not only in South America, but in all the world. Today, the city is well known for their cable cars. The purpose was to make sure that everyone in Medellín had access to their metro systems, one of the only in South America. The cable cars reach more isolated, poorer neighborhoods that were previously underserved by public transportation. That’s also great for travelers since it allows visitors to see other areas of the city they might not have even considered visiting. One area that is now thriving thanks to the cable cars is Comuna 13. The neighborhood was once considered the most dangerous in the city, but today is home to a vibrant and growing community that is ready to welcome visitors with open arms. Comuna 13 has changed thanks to a lot of hard work and effort put in by locals. The area is now known for its creative scene, especially street art and break dancing. I highly recommend taking a street art tour, led by a local artist, to better understand the complex history of Comuna 13 and how they are paving the way for a better future.

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Great Weather

There is a reason Medellín is called The City Of Eternal Spring. With year-round breezy temperatures, it’s no wonder that Medellín has become popular with snowbirds escaping the freezing cold. It’s rare to find air conditioning or even fans in any house in Medellín. While there is a fair amount of rain depending on the year, it sure beats snow found further north! To be honest, it’s one of the few places in the world that has year-round perfect temperatures. If you’re looking to escape the cold and can deal with some rain, Medellín is a great option.

Nature

For a large bustling city, Medellín has a surprising amount of nature in the surrounding area. A can’t miss nature area is Arvi Park. Located about 30 kilometers from the city center in the northeastern section of the city, Arvi Park is a gem hidden in the mountains. Easily accessible by cable car, the trip alone to the park is a scenic adventure (unless you’re scared of heights, then you’ll be wondering when you’ll be back on solid ground!) Once you arrive at the park, you have so many options of things to do. From hiking to camping to just hanging out and enjoying a picnic with friends, Arvi has something for everyone. For those that want a unique experience, I suggest checking out night hiking. Led by a bilingual tour guide, your led around the park after hours while they explain what animals and plants can be seen along with the history and culture of the area. The best part is you get an amazing view of Medellín lit up at night.

For those travelers that prefer the adventure of doing things by themselves, a hike to the top of Cerro de las Tres Cruces (Three Cross Hill) is almost mandatory. The hike is more intense than it seems and if you walk up near dusk, you get to watch the sunset behind Medellín’s hills. The view is incredible as the buildings take on a fiery orange hue. Lastly, at the top of the hill, is an outdoor workout park so if you enjoy working out, you’ll love Tres Cruces.

Salsa 

No trip to Colombia would be complete without at least a few salsa dancing classes (no reason to worry if you have two left feet.). Now, Cali may be the salsa dancing capital of the world, but don’t sleep on the scene in Medellín. No matter where you go in the city, you can find classes or clubs where you can salsa dance. Dancing, in general, is a big part of Medellín’s nightlife. I highly recommend visiting a local, authentic Colombian salsa bar called El Eslabon Prendido. It’s a small place, but the intimate setting makes learning to salsa only that much more fun. They offer salsa dance lessons on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so if you’ve never tried salsa before, this is your time to learn.

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Friendly Locals  

I’ve saved the best aspect of Colombia for last. It’s impossible to talk about Colombia without mentioning the friendly locals. In Medellín, locals are known as Paisas and they are some of the warmest, most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. Every time I meet someone that has traveled to Colombia, they always bring up the people and how nice they were. From sharing food to helping lost visitors with directions to just flashing a simple smile, Colombians local people are the highlight of the country. In my opinion, they are the greatest asset the country has and a big reason why the tourism industry has been booming in the past several years. I could write about them all day, but it’s best to go down to Medellín and see for yourself.

Suggested next reading: Why You Have To Go To Colombia This Year

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1. Beaches

There’s a reason every major hotel chain is trying to come to the island and get prime real estate on Providencia’s pristine beaches. If you are looking for empty, tropical beaches with white sand, you’ve come to the right place because Providencia has many. I suggest renting a scooter and visiting a different one each day. Each beach has its own feel. Manzanillo Beach is the perfect place to hang out and grab a drink as it is home to Roland’s Roots Reggae Bar. Roland’s serves food and drinks during the day and at night, hosts beach parties with live music. Almond Bay is the exact opposite. It is a secluded beach on the island’s west coast. It’s hard to find, but well worth the visit. It has a small snack bar, but not much else. It truly is a slice of paradise. Whether you are in a party mood or want chill vibes, Providencia has a beach that’s right for you.

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2. Seafood

If you don’t like seafood, skip over this section because this is the part where I tell you all about the fresh, mouth-watering fish that Providencia has to offer. It’s really no surprise that Providencia has incredible seafood, but the way they cook it with Creole-inspired spices is what really makes the dishes stand out. There are a few seafood restaurants that are worth visiting but Café Studio was my hands down favorite. Located in the southwestern corner of the island, Café Studio is easy to miss if you don’t know where it is. It’s inconveniently situated right after a big bend in the road, but the outside seating, reggae music, refreshing drinks, and the freshest seafood I’ve ever tasted made it more than worthwhile the multiple visits I spent there. My favorite dish that I had was their everything plate. It’s a simple dish. They stuff the plate with rice, shrimp, plantains, haddock, a crab cake concoction, and some sort of fried fish ball. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but I highly recommend trying the everything plate. You’ll find yourself coming back for more. As an added bonus, I hear their pies are delicious so, if you have a sweet tooth that needs to be satisfied, then Café Studio is the place you need to go.

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3. Remote

Providencia is about 10 years behind when it comes to WIFI and wireless internet connection so don’t come to the island if you need to get work done. There are only a few places on the island where you can get a somewhat decent internet connection. You can easily find them because you can spot tourists and locals alike crowded around different town squares, looking at their phones. I loved the fact that it was remote and, to be honest, it made the visit that much better. I found it to be old school. If you are meeting someone, you have to tell them a time and place in advance. This makes Providencia the perfect place to get away from all of the daily stress and relax. It’s also a great place to come and do a detox from your phone if you’ve found yourself spending too much time on your phone in your hostel at night. It was refreshing to see kids being kids, playing in the street, and not texting or scrolling through Instagram. I hope Providencia never loses this.

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4. Friendly Locals

Speaking of locals, Providencia’s inhabitants are extremely kind and love to share their island with others. Surprisingly, many prefer to speak English and are always interested in why you decided to visit their little slice of paradise. My best experience was when I was on Manzanillo Beach. I was enjoying the day with a friend when a group of local boys invited us to play rugby with them. We’d never played rugby before so they explained the rules to us and we ended up playing several games with them for hours. After playing well past sunset, they invited us to a birthday party where we got to try local dishes and meet even more locals. They were all fascinated by how we ended up visiting Providencia and we chatted late into the night over beers. They were some of the friendliest people I’ve met anywhere in the world and you can feel they genuinely want you to enjoy your time on Providencia. The friendly locals alone are enough of a reason to visit.

5. Crab Cay

While not technically part of Providencia Island, Crab Cay is a short boat or kayak trip away. The island itself lies about a kilometer offshore from the eastern side of Providencia. I recommend renting kayaks and paddling for about 30 minutes each way to reach Crab Cay. The island is a protected natural park and has endangered coral reefs surrounding it. Once on the island, you can go snorkeling with sea turtles and other colorful, rare fish in some of the bluest water you’ll ever see. The turtles are not scared of humans and you can swim right next to them. It’s an incredible experience! Afterward, hike up to the top of the hill for an amazing view of Providencia. Be sure to go to Crab Cay early at 9 AM when it opens because the island fills up quickly. There’s nothing better than having an island to yourself. So, go visit Providencia Island!

To get a deeper understanding before you visit Providencia Island, we highly recommend watching the following clip that showcases what the island life is all about:

Suggested next reading: How I Experienced 3 Weeks In The Galapagos Islands For $800

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1. Cuy (Ecuador)

Guinea pigs are common household pets in North America and Europe, but in South America, especially Ecuador, guinea pigs are eaten for lunch. The reason for the tradition is that before cattle were brought to Ecuador, guinea pigs were the main protein source for locals. Today, you can’t walk around Ecuador without seeing Cuy being deep fried and cooked at a street market or restaurant. At first glance, Cuy may not look appetizing as they cook the guinea pigs over an open flame, but don’t be afraid to dig in. The best way to eat Cuy is with your hands, no silverware necessary.

2. Alpaca A La Parrilla (Peru)

Many people associate Peru and alpacas with warm sweaters, but in Peru, alpaca is also eaten. While alpaca only produce a small amount of meat compared to other animals, alpaca is usually eaten at special celebrations or by the rich. While you can get it at any high end restaurant, the best way to eat alpaca is on a stick. It is still considered a luxury delicacy to this day and some say it is the Peruvian equivalent of Kobe Beef.

To be honest, if you only could choose one dish to eat in South America, I would say you have to try Alpaca A La Parilla (Alpaca on the grill). The meat is delicious and is one of the leanest, healthiest red meats that exists. It is lower in cholesterol than chicken and higher in protein than beef.

3. Ceviche (Peru)

Ceviche is one of the most well known South American foods to foreigners and is Peru’s national dish. The light, spicy, raw mixture of fish is combined with salt, garlic, and onions. The best places to eat ceviche is at Cevicherias which can be found across the country, but they are only open during the day for lunch. Peruvians would laugh at North Americans and Europeans who have ceviche for dinner because they believe that you can only eat ceviche during the day in order to avoid terrible stomach issues at night. The ceviche, while always delicious, varies throughout the country and the region you are in. For example, near the coast, ceviche will contain lobster, crab, oyster, and shrimp, but in the mountains, the ceviche has only trout. There’s nothing better than delicious ceviche and a cold beer on the beach to make life more enjoyable!

4. Asado (Argentina)

Argentinians are fiercely proud of their Asado or grilled meats. It’s history is linked to gauchos (cowboys) who used to roam the fields and herd their cattle. They didn’t have much access to proper equipment so they set up a fire and started grilling meats. The tradition has now been perfected over centuries and centuries of cooking meat, but it seems as if Argentinians are constantly finding new ways to grill. An asado is associated with family and barbecues in the summer, but can really be had anytime. A classic Argentinian asado would not be complete without chorizo, sirloin, skirt steak, and ribs. Argentinians will claim that their meat is the best in the world and the flavor is unmatched. That’s a whole other debate, but there’s no doubt the meat is a must try when visiting Argentina.

5. Acai (Brazil)

Acai is a native stone fruit (not berry) of Brazil’s Amazonian region. Acai has exploded in popularity ever since the Rio Summer Olympics in 2016, but it is extremely misunderstood. Acai is the size of a raspberry and contains a hard pit in the center. Acai is not traditionally sweet. In Brazil, they add guarana to add a natural sweetness to the otherwise dull flavored bowl. Acai is found throughout the country and is sold at any corner store. The bowl usually is served with tapioca in Brazil, unlike the cacao, peanut butter, and coconut flakes many are accustomed to seeing in other countries. Regardless of how it is served, Acai bowls are delicious, healthy, and filled with antioxidants. There’s no better way to eat Acai than enjoying a bowl while watching the sunrise in Rio.

6. Arepas (Colombia)

Arepas are an extremely versatile dish. They can be combined with almost anything and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are popular in Venezuela and Colombia, but the dish is becoming more and more common in other countries. Interestingly enough, as arepas grow in popularity abroad, they are becoming less commonplace at home. They are traditionally made with corn but can be made with other ingredients as well. They are best described as a mixture between tortillas and pitas. The best part about arepas is that they are cheap and great for a meal before exploring a city or going on a hike.

7. Churrasco (Brazil)

The only country in South America that competes with Argentina’s meat is Brazil (this is an intense rivalry that is often times played out on the football field). Churrasco is similar to Argentina’s style of cooking meat over an open flame but is more upscale. While Argentina prides itself on minimal equipment, Brazilian churrasco’s are a production. Brazil perfected churrasco and it is now imitated around South America and the rest of the world. Churrasco is slow cooked barbecued meats served on skewers that are brought around by servers. You can pick and choose your meat, how it is cooked, and how much you want. If you find yourself in Brazil, be sure to spoil yourself (and your stomach) on a churrasco.

Suggested next reading: 5 Crazy & Delicious Foods I Tried While Traveling

The post 7 Unique South American Dishes You Definitely Have To Try appeared first on Modern Trekker.

At the time, I was living and working in Baños, Ecuador. I had already been there a month and a half so I was starting to get restless and ready to move on. On Thursdays, I hosted a Couchsurfing meetup at the restaurant I worked at and it was usually attended by a few locals, but mostly tourists or expats. At this meetup, I met two brothers, Jay and Bennett, who were doing a Workaway in a nearby town (For those of you who don’t know what Workaway is, it is a website that connects travelers and locals looking for workers, teachers, and many other types of jobs. In exchange for work, you generally get free accommodation and food. It’s a win-win situation for both locals and travelers.)

We quickly became friends and they told me they were heading to another Workaway on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos after their time in Baños ended. I was intrigued, to say the least, and asked if they could talk to their host and see if they needed more volunteers.

Galapagos-bound

Two weeks passed and honestly, the thought of the Galapagos had drifted out of my mind until Jay sent me a WhatsApp text saying I was more than welcome to come volunteer if I was still interested. I immediately started looking up flights and booked a round trip ticket the next day! 3 weeks on the Galapagos sounded good to me! I found a flight for just over $300 round trip.

When I arrived, I was greeted by a man picking me up from Galapagos Safari Camp, the “glamping” hotel where I would be working with the maintenance team. The deal was work 5-6 hours a day in exchange for three meals a day and accommodation.

How hard could this work be? I thought. Man, I was in for a shock! From digging trenches to filling in the potholes with gravel to washing tents with power hoses, I came to appreciate what my Ecuadorian coworkers did on a daily basis for over 8 hours a day. It was a great workout and I think making this city boy do some manual labor was a positive thing. You always need to be humbled and this experience certainly did that! Katrien, the camp director, and the rest of the staff were amazing, making sure I was happy and comfortable throughout my stay.

The safari camp was absolutely beautiful, located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island and about a 35-minute drive from Puerto Ayora. I was able to do some special activities with the whole staff such as a day trip to Tortuga Bay.

Beautiful Isabela

I accumulated my non-working days for the end of my time at safari camp and decided to take a trip to Isabela Island for a long weekend.

As I was planning my trip, I had another bout of good luck as I had no plans for Isabela and was just going to simply arrive, find a hotel and figure out the rest from there. However, I decided to take a glance at Couchsurfing. I figured there would be no couchsurfers at all, but, to my surprise, there were 7. I messaged all 7, heard back from 2, and got accepted by 1. His name was Christian and he said he would pick me up at the port.

When I took the boat over from Puerto Ayora to Isabela (the largest of the surrounding islands at 120 kilometers long), I was skeptical that Christian would be there. I had already set my expectations low to not be disappointed, but I was wrong in the best way possible.

As I got off the boat, Christian was there waiting for me as planned and we walked two minutes to the beachfront house that he shared with his roommate, Ricardo. They had two other American girls staying with them. Their house was amazing, it was completely open air and it had an amazing view from the roof of the beach and ocean. I hit the Couchsurfing jackpot!

Not only were these guys nice and laid back, Ricardo cooked healthy, vegetarian food and insisted on sharing. I don’t use Couchsurfing to save money, I use it to meet locals and have unique experiences, but this was a nice bonus on the Galapagos as the cheapest hostels are priced at $20 a night and food costs a fortune. If this wasn’t already enough, Christian lent me his bike to do a tour of the island and Ricardo, a kayaking tour leader, let me join his afternoon group for half price.

Overall, the Galápagos Islands are incredible, but be ready to spend a bit more money than other parts of South America. Since I am a young solo traveler and don’t need luxury, the adventure is half of the fun anyway! I got incredibly lucky, but if you are looking to go see the Galapagos on a budget, it is entirely possible! Look at Workaway or any work-travel site. I’ll always be a huge fan of Couchsurfing, so definitely look at that as an option. Expect to be a little uncomfortable if you go my route, but at the same time it was an incredible experience and you do not need to wait until you are older and have more money as many travelers say. It is important to note, I only went to Isabela and Santa Cruz and did not do any of the land tours.

Cost Breakdown in US Dollars:

Flight: $303.53
Visitor fee: $100
Departure Tax: $20
Boat ride round trip: $60
Boat taxi: $2
Isabela Island Entrance Fee: $10
Cash Spent: $301.53 ( Taxis, food, drinks, etc.)

TOTAL: $797.16

Suggested next reading: Baños, Ecuador: An Adrenaline Junkies Paradise or 7 Stunning Locations You Need To Experience In South America

The post How I Experienced 3 Weeks In The Galapagos Islands For $800 appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Swing At The End Of The World

Casa del Arbol, known as “The Swing At The End Of The World”, is actually a monitoring station for the nearby Tungurahua Volcano. The man that runs the volcanic activity station decided to build a treehouse and swings for his kids, but tourists quickly got word of the site and it is now a major attraction in Baños. In addition to the swing, there is a tightrope and zip line. There are many tour groups that take people up to the swing, but the best way to get there is to rent ATVs and make the drive up the mountain. Not only is it good fun, but the whole trip is an adventure and offers incredible views of the town below. Be sure to head to the swing early in the day to beat the crowds and have the place practically to yourself.

Bridge Jump

Directly next to Baños’ main bus station is a bridge that you can jump off of. It may be the first thing you notice when you pull into town. When you first walk over to the bridge, you won’t see any signs for bridge jumping, but just ask the locals hanging out on the bridge and they will get you started. Within five minutes you can be standing on a platform hanging over the edge of the bridge, being given a countdown to jump. The whole experience costs a whopping $20 USD (that price includes pictures of your jump.) But for those that have traveled the continent and have stopped in Baños, many say this bridge jump is their favorite thing that they have done in all of South America. Pretty high praise for an action-packed continent!

Rutas De Las Cascades

Rutas De Las Cascades (Waterfall Route) is an 18-kilometer bike ride along seven different waterfalls. You can rent a bike in town for $5 USD and be on your way! The ride is incredible as the scenery is lush and green. The waterfalls are stunning and there are giant zip lines across each one. You finish the route at El Pailon Del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron), an incredible 80 meters high waterfall that is simply breathtaking. To reach El Pailon is a bit of a hike and can be wet depending on the season so be prepared and bring waterproof shoes. If you prefer, you can bike another 42 kilometers to Puyo, the last town before reaching the Amazon. If not, a truck will take you and your bike back to Baños.

Canyoning

Canyoning is one of the most popular activities that Baños has to offer. The tour is offered by several different adventure companies, but each one is pretty much the same. You will be jumping and be rappelling off five waterfalls, occasionally ziplining from one spot to the next. The last waterfall is the most anticipated during the tour as you walk down a 35 meter (115 foot) waterfall. Canyoning will definitely get your blood pumping!

White Water Rafting

Whitewater rafting is one of the most extreme things you can do in Baños. For $30 USD for a half day of rafting, I’m not sure you can find a better deal anywhere in the world. The tour brings you down the Pastaza River. While rafting, you’ll encounter class III and IV rapids depending on the season. Class III rapids can be done year round, but Class IV can only be done safely during the summer months. Every tour company has detailed safety briefings and two kayakers for each tour to ensure the safety of their guests (they also take pictures of your entire ride). The experience is challenging and you will definitely get wet in the process, but you will be happy you did it and meet some cool, adventurous people along the way.

Hike To Bellavista

Baños offers plenty of hikes in the surrounding areas, but some are difficult to access and take hours to reach. The hike that is the easiest to get to is on the edge of town and is called Bellavista. This hour-long hike is pretty challenging in sections where you are walking straight uphill, but there are many lookouts and rest areas to stop along the way. The trail is well marked and it is difficult to get lost. Once you reach the peak, which stands at approximately 2,500 meters (8,400 feet), you will have great views of Baños, Tungurahua Volcano, and the surrounding lush, green forest and mountains. One thing to be careful of is that occasionally there are wild dogs that become aggressive so it is best to walk in groups.

Spa Treatment

After experiencing all the adventure that Baños has to offer, you will need to rest your sore muscles and relax a bit. Luckily, as mentioned earlier, Baños is famous for their hot springs. There is no better place to slow down and enjoy some downtime than at Luna Runtun. The adventure spa, as it is advertised, is at the top of a mountain and overlooks all of Baños. The view is absolutely stunning at night. With their 4 pools, both hot and cold, filled with volcanic water, you might never want to leave. Once you are done with the spa, enjoy dinner and drinks at their restaurant with panoramic views.

Suggested next reading: How To Go Rogue And See Southeast Asia By Motorbike 

The post Baños, Ecuador: An Adrenaline Junkies Paradise appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. People 

You hear it from everyone that goes to Colombia, that Colombians are some of the nicest people you will ever meet. Colombians are proud of their country and love to show it off to foreigners (just don’t spell Colombia, “Columbia” or any other variation and you’ll do just fine!) They are warm, kind, and ready to welcome you to their restaurant, shop, coffee plantation, or hostel with open arms. Just be ready to meet the whole family including the cousins and great-grandparents. It can be overwhelming at first, but once you experience this way of life in Colombia, you’ll never want to leave!

2. Activities

Colombia has so many activities happening that it makes it difficult to pick and choose what to do! Get lost in the picturesque, colorful Old Town of Cartagena. Explore Medellin’s extensive Metrocable system. Hike the Cocora Valley and see Wax Palms, Colombia’s national tree and the tallest palm trees in the world. Drink the freshest coffee you’ve ever had on a coffee tour in Salento. Be surrounded by beautiful street art in Bogota. Relax on the massive hammock at Casa Elemento in Minca. These are only some of the activities you can do in Colombia. Each region is different and has its own flavor. Variety is a big reason why Colombia has become such a big draw for many people.

3. Culture

Colombia is teeming with culture. It is a place where various cultures from around the world intersect and mix together. From theatre to arts to food to music, Colombia has it all and then some. If you can only experience a few, however, I’d recommend three things you absolutely HAVE to do while in Colombia. The first is what most people think of when they think of Colombia: Salsa! Cali is the salsa capital of the world and there are classes every day taught by world champions. You may start off completely lost, but you’ll quickly get a hang of it! Hit the salsa clubs after to try out your new moves. The second cultural experience you have to try is Tejo. A national sport in Colombia, Tejo mixes horseshoes and gunpowder (the locals recommend playing with “Aguardiente”, a strong liquor that “helps your accuracy”). It’s a blast and you will surely walk away with new friends, both local and from afar! Finally, you must go to a football game. Colombians take their football very seriously and I guarantee you will be on your feet cheering, chanting, and singing the whole game! Pick your team wisely though because once you choose, you cannot switch allegiances!

4. Nature

It’s no secret that South America is blessed with natural beauty. Colombia is no exception. With volcanos, mountains, rivers, islands, and deserts, Colombia has something for all nature lovers. Be sure to check out Arvi Park in Medellin. Located 30 kilometers from the city center, the 16,000 square meter park is a natural oasis on the outskirts of the city. You can hike, birdwatch, camp, bike, and do many other activities. On weekends, there is a local farmer’s market that has incredible fresh produce, sweets, and coffee. Another must-see is Guatapé. The colorful city, a 2-hour bus ride from Medellin, is known for its huge rock. You can climb the 740 steps to the top, but the adventure is not for the faint of heart with its meandering, narrow staircase, which has you dangling over the edge at some parts. The view from the top though is completely worth the trek. You have a stunning view of the entire valley below you. The final place you must visit is Tayrona National Park. After spending the night sleeping in a hammock under the stars on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, explore the park’s tropical beaches, unique wildlife, and dramatic sunsets, you’ll never want to leave!

5. Providencia Island 

Few people know that Colombia is in possession of a collection of islands off the coast of Nicaragua. While San Andres is known for being Colombia’s sun and fun destination, it is Providencia that is the real hidden gem. A one hour flight or 3-hour boat ride from San Andres (might I add one of the choppiest you’ll ever be on—you are given seasickness pills before you even board the ship), Providencia will reward you with one of the last truly untouched Caribbean islands. You can easily crisscross the whole island on a scooter and discover pristine white sand beaches, lush forests, incredible wildlife, and taste some of the freshest, most delicious seafood you’ll ever have. While you might be itching to share your beach selfies on Instagram, you’ll have to wait as the island has limited Wifi. For this reason, you’ll meet many who come to the island to completely disconnect with the world and enjoy the beautiful island. No trip to Providencia would be complete without a kayaking adventure out to Crab Key. The small, national park has water so clear it looks as if your kayak is floating on a cloud. When you arrive, you’ll be able to snorkel among rare sea coral with Giant Sea Turtles and colorful tropical fish in the world’s third largest barrier reef. Finish off a long day of adventure with watching the sunset at Manzanillo Bay.

Suggested next reading: Baños, Ecuador: An Adrenaline Junkies Paradise

The post Why You Have To Go To Colombia This Year appeared first on Modern Trekker.