Things to Do in Central And South America

Nicaragua’s largest lake goes by many names: Lake Nicaragua, Lake Cocibolca, Lake Granada and even “Mar Dulce,” or “Sweet Sea.” The official name is Lake Nicaragua, but since it’s right next to the city of Granada you can see how “Lake Granada” might also seem appropriate. The lake is a major source of activities in the area, both for visitors and residents, and its sheer size means that there’s plenty of room for everyone who wants to get on or in the water.

You can take boat or kayak tours on Lake Nicaragua to explore Las Isletas (the archipelago of tiny islands), take a day trip to Isla Zapatera or spend a night on the lake’s biggest island, Ometepe. This enormous lake is home to some larger-than-you-might-expect creatures, including bull sharks. Weather conditions can make the lake surface choppy (and boat trips unpleasant for anyone with seasickness) - you might rightfully wonder how Lake Nicaragua got its “Sweet Sea” nickname. If you’d prefer to stay on solid ground, you can still enjoy the lakeside atmosphere in Granada, sharing the beach with local families.

To help you get your head around Peru’s centuries of history and culture, visit the well-regarded Museo Larco Herrera in Lima, housed in an 18th-century vice-royal mansion, built over a 7th-century pyramid and surrounded by leafy gardens. The chronological overview of 3,000 years of history takes you through pre-Inca cultures and pre-Columbian art, to present-day interpretations of pre-Hispanic ceramics.

The museum is structured in a series of galleries, and its highlight is the fine collection of Inca gold and silver jewelry and artifacts, studded with prized lapis lazuli, turquoise and amethyst. Painted pottery vases and tools are also displayed, along with elaborately fashioned metal ware, cotton and feather textiles. A unique feature of the museum is that visitors are granted access to the storage area, where 45,000 objects are arranged and cataloged.

If you’re looking for high-quality souvenirs, the gift shop sells a selection of reproduction pre-Colombian ceramics, textiles and 18 carat jewelry, as well as luxury alpaca clothing.

At the northeastern corner of the old walled city is Cartagena’s grandest arcade, stretching with imperial purpose from Santa Clara to Santa Catalina Fortress. Behind the 47 painted archways are a string colorful souvenir shops, well stocked with all the emeralds, Botero knockoffs, hammocks, hats and molas that your coworkers and catsitters might desire. These unusually proportioned alcoves are interspersed with equally cramped bars, galleries, and other businesses. It’s a fun place to shop and photogenic spot to enjoy, but the rather oppressive barrel ceilings that overarch each vault (boveda) come with a bit of history.

The vaulted alcoves were originally built into the massive sea wall between 1792 and 1796, and at first used to store provisions. They were repurposed during the early 1800s as an incredibly uncomfortable prison. The extent city’s thick walls—up to 15m (50ft) against the sea and its uncertainties—can really be appreciated while you bargain for a new pair of earrings.

Guatemala’s second largest lake, a sparkling expanse at the heart of the hot, humid Petén Basin, was one of the earliest cradles of Mesoamerican civilization. The lush rainforests at its fringe are home to at least 27 archaeological sites, in addition to Flores, capital of Petén Department. Once known as Nojpetén (City Island) by the Itza Mayans, Flores was also their regional capital, and was the last Mayan city to fall to the Spanish, in 1697.

You’re probably staying on the island, a great base for enjoying the lake. Head to the north shore for a walk on the malecón, or jump in for a swim with the locals. The west side boasts lakefront restaurants and bars where you can watch the sunset. Hire a cayuco (small, motorized boats) to other attractions overlooking the water, including ruins, Petencito Zoo, Cerro Cahuí Nature Reserve, “El Museo,” a small archaeological museum, and other towns along the lakeshore.