Traveling to South America is a fascinating adventure that offers a great variety of landscapes, cultures, and attractions. While popular destinations like Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Islands attract millions of visitors each year, there are many other lesser-known places worth exploring. Here are five hidden gems in South America that are definitely worth discovering:
We begin our journey in Ecuador, a small but enormously diverse country. A few hours from the famous Amazon rainforest is the town of Baños, a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. This small town is surrounded by stunning tropical rainforest and offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, such as rafting on the Pastaza River, hiking to impressive waterfalls, and cable car excursions with panoramic views. The town itself is cozy and lively, with a vibrant culinary scene and an active nightlife. Visitors can enjoy the famous local drink, canelazo, while soaking in the hospitality and relaxed atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Not far from Baños, another hidden treasure awaits in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes: the Mojanda Lakes. This impressive group of three mountain lakes is located over 3,700 meters above sea level and offers incredible scenery and a sense of tranquility. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes around the lakes, observing the unique wildlife of the Andean páramo and admiring the surrounding volcanoes. With a rich cultural and spiritual history for indigenous peoples, the lakes offer a serene and nature-connected experience away from the crowds.
In southern Brazil, the coastal city of Florianopolis is a hidden beach paradise that has long been a well-kept secret for surfers and beach lovers. With more than 42 pristine beaches, the city offers a wide variety of options, from secluded, tranquil bays to vibrant beaches popular with surfers. The city itself is vibrant and cosmopolitan, with an active nightlife and a delicious culinary scene offering fresh seafood and traditional Brazilian cuisine. The rich history and culture of the city, along with its stunning natural beauty, make it an unforgettable destination.
Let’s change pace and head to the vibrant city of La Paz, Bolivia, a unique metropolis that offers an immersive cultural experience like no other. The city’s extreme topography, with its steep streets and panoramic views, is impressive. The indigenous Aymara culture is interwoven into everything, from colorful markets to delicious street food. Visitors can explore world-class museums, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, and discover the rich history of the city. La Paz is also an excellent gateway to some of Bolivia’s most impressive landscapes, such as the Salar de Uyuni and Lake Titicaca.
Finally, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest, lies the Tambopata National Reserve, a natural paradise that is home to incredible biodiversity. This remote reserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in pristine nature and experience the amazing wildlife of the Amazon. From mischievous monkeys to colorful tropical birds, the reserve is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can stay in eco-lodges and enjoy guided excursions, jungle hikes, and canoe rides while learning about the importance of conserving this fragile ecosystem.