Things to Do in Central And South America

Brazil’s most famous landscape architect, Roberto Burle Marx, left his legacy all over the country and was known for creating some of the most beautiful park spaces in the city of Rio. His own home, the big estate that is today known as Sitio Roberto Burle Max, is no exception and is undoubtedly one of his masterpieces. The property is a former banana plantation, which Marx bought together with his brother in 1949 and transformed into intricately designed gardens. Today, over twenty years after the owner’s death, it takes 18 gardeners to care for the 40 hectare property, despite the almost complete lack of flowers. This design choice was Marx’s signature, as he wanted to achieve aesthetic timelessness and avoid seasonal changes. Instead, grasses, layers of shrubs and palm trees create flowing transitions between varying shades of green, with the occasional bromeliad adding a pop of color. 

The gardens aren’t the only highlight though. Inside Marx’s original farmhouse and studio, many of his paintings, furniture and sculptures are on display and show the creative force of a design genius. You see, the famous designer was never married or had children and instead, dedicated his life to tirelessly working on his art. Visitors can also walk through the big dining room, where Marx welcomed Rio’s art world and admire the music room.

The most important island on the lake, according to pre-Columbian tradition, is the Isla del Sol, “Sun Island.” It is the largest of the lake islands (14.3 square kilometers, or 5.5 square miles), and considered sacred to the Andean Sun God and Inca patron deity, Inti. Today, its dramatically sculpted terrain is home to some 800 families, 180 pre-Columbian ruins, and several kilometers of ancient trails to explore.

It is said that after a great flood cleansed the Earth, Viracocha, the god of creation, rose from the sacred lake and came to this island. First, he created Inti, the sun, and Mama Quila, the moon. Two large “footprints” in the stone, still visible on the path to the sacred city of Challapampa, mark the spot where Viracocha created the Earth’s first man and woman, Mallco Capac and Mama Ocllo.

While it’s possible to come here on a day trip from Copacabana (but not Puno; Isla del Sol is on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca), it is much better to stay overnight. Most services are in Yumani, also home to an ancient stone fountain that sits atop 206 stone steps; this may be the Fountain of Youth. Boat tours and stone trails lead to scores more ruins, such as the Inca seminary and enormous stone labyrinth called the Chinkana, the ornate Temple of Pilcocaina, and the “Stone Puma,” or “Titi Karka,” thought to have bequeathed upon this lake its name. Sunset is fittingly spectacular, and perhaps best appreciated from the lighthouse, atop the island’s highest point (4,097m/13,441ft).

Nearby Isla de la Luna (Island of the Moon) is another sacred isle, which can be visited by boat tour from either Isla del Sol or Copacabana. The most famous ruins are those of what is thought to have been an ancient convent, called Ajlla Wasi (House of the Chosen Women).

Stories of a nearby lost city, long thought to have been as apocryphal as Plato’s tales of Atlantis, were proven absolutely true in 2000. An international expedition discovered a submerged temple dating to perhaps 700AD, roughly the size of a football field, connected to Copacabana by an undersea road. You can see some of the artifacts uncovered there at the island’s Museo de Oro (Museum of Gold).

A deep and narrow canyon formed by the powerful Rio Coco, Central America’s longest river, Somoto Canyon National Monument offers thrilling excursions for adrenaline junkies and scenic views of northern Nicaragua’s remote territory. The protected area covers 420 acres (170 hectares), including a 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) stretch of canyon.

Unparalleled adventure in a rarely visited portion of Nicaragua’s lush north rewards those who make the 3-hour drive to Somoto Canyon from Managua. Peer into the canyon on a hike, or ride horseback through fields of wild orchids and stop to explore the natural caves dotted along the rim. Scramble along the rocky riverside, cool off in secluded swimming holes, or join a guide for cliff jumps, rappels, and rock climbing. Be sure to pre-book a Somoto Canyon tour if you plan on taking any thrills, as uncertified guides often try to sell excursions at the park entrance.

Somoto Canyon is located in Nicaragua just south of the Honduras border and nine miles (15 kilometers) north of the town of Somoto. Those traveling on public transit can take a bus from Managua to Somoto and then transfer at the bus station to a second line toward the Honduras border, while those with private transport can drive all but the last 1.2 miles (two kilometers) to the riverbank (unless in a 4x4 vehicle). The canyon is roughly a 2-hour trip from the closest major city of Esteli.

The Somoto Canyon is open all year, although closures are possible in October due to the rising water level of the river.

A group of geologists researching the area discovered Somoto Canyon in 2004. It has quickly grown into a worthwhile destination for its beauty, protected status, many activities, and remote location.

Housed in an elegant 17th-century colonial house hidden away in Caracas’ historic quarter, the Simón Bolívar Birthplace House is a worthy tribute to one of South America’s most iconic revolutionaries. The striking building has a dual claim to fame, firstly for being among the few remaining colonial-era houses in Caracas and secondly as the birthplace and childhood home of Venezuela's second president and ‘El Libertador’, Simón Bolívar.

Opening its doors to the public in 1921 and listed as a National Monument in 2002, the Simón Bolívar Birthplace House now houses two of Venezuela's most fascinating museums – the 

Casa Natal (Birth House) and the Museo Bolivar (Bolívar Museum). The Casa Natal is reconstructed in period style and features an impressive display of Venezuelan artworks, depicting Bolivar and the Venezuelan War of Independence. The adjoining Museo Bolivar is equally interesting, containing a large collection of memorabilia, personal items and documents, plus military uniforms and weapons, and even the baptismal font in which Bolivar was baptized.

The Basics

The largest art deco statue in the world, Christ Redeemer is 130 feet (39 meters) tall with arms measuring 98 feet (30 meters) across. Just about every Rio city tour includes a stop here, with many combining a visit with other top attractions such as the Sugar Loaf Mountain cable car and Santa Teresa. Choose between hiking tours, city sightseeing tours, and half-day trips to the statue.

• Skip-the-line tickets and exclusive early-access tours allow you to beat the crowds to the top.
  
• Choose between a private tour and a small-group tour for an exclusive experience.
  
• Tours include either cog train tickets or vehicle transportation to the top of the mountain.
  
• The Corcovado cog train departs every 20 to 30 minutes and is wheelchair accessible.
  

How to Get to the Statue of Christ the Redeemer
To reach the statue at the top of Corcovado, take the cog train or minibus from Santa Teresa. The train, which offers some spectacular views (especially if you sit on the right-hand side), leaves from the Cosme Velho train station at Rua Cosme Velho 513.

When to Get There
Opening hours vary seasonally, but the site is roughly open from 8am to 6 or 7pm. On a clear day, the views from the base of the statue include the beaches of Leblon, Copacabana, and Ipanema, Sugar Loaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay. After dark, the statue is lit up and seems to hover over all of Rio. Expect heavy summer crowds; consider booking a skip-the-line ticket to save some time.

Visiting the Nearby Tijuca Rainforest

Regardless of how you reach the top of Corcovado, you'll travel through the Tijuca Rainforest, or Floresta Tijuca. One of the world's largest urban rain forests at 12.4 square miles (3,212 hectares), Tijuca is home to a variety of endemic Brazilian plants and animals. Before or after your visit to the statue, plan to spend some time exploring the attractions here.

A trio of ahu (ceremonial platforms) lining the seafront with their backs to the ocean, the Tahai Ceremonial Complex is one of the most visited historic sites of Easter Island and an important part of the UNESCO-listed Rapa Nui National Park. Like many of the island’s moai, the Tahai statues toppled over in the 18th century, but the site was among the first to be restored, a task undertaken in 1974 by American archaeologist William Mulloy, who is now buried on the site.

The moai at Tahai are known for their unique designs—the Ahu Tahai, with its solitary weather-beaten moai stands at the center, flanked by Ahu Ko Te Riku, a single moai featuring painted eyes and a pukao headdress, and Ahu Vai Uri, with five moai of various sizes. The most spectacular time to visit the site is at dusk, when the coastal moai are dramatically silhouetted against the blazing sunset.

You don’t have to go all the way to Argentina to experience the passion of tango. Tango’s second city, Medellin, where the famous tango singer and musician Carlos Gardel died in an airplane accident, keeps the seductive art form alive.

One of the main stages for tango in Medellin is the Tango Patio (Patio del Tango), one of the most emblematic restaurants that showcases this music. The steakhouse does indeed feel like a patio, and the decoration is typical of a Buenos Aires tango dive. Artwork on the walls shows tango dancers from Buenos Aires, and of course, Carlos Gardel. 

There are live shows Thursday through Saturday nights with singers, guitarists, dancers and quartets with various instruments performing on the small stage.

At this restaurant, steaks take first place, but don’t miss the delicious desserts such as flan and tiramisu. While you’re in Medellin, visit the Tango Patio to get a feel of the city, known for its passion for tango.

Once the site of a quiet fishing village, Tamarindo Beach has become one of Costa Rica's most popular stretches of golden sand. Surfers travel from across the globe to ride Tamarindo's waves, but you don’t need to be a pro to hang 10 here. There are spots nearby that are calm enough for first-time wave riders to learn.

 

This beach has become one of the most developed on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. Some visitors say the beach town has lost its authentic charm, while others enjoy the modern restaurants, nightlife, and creature comforts. Regardless, the mile-long, crescent-shaped beach offers plenty of space to sunbathe; the shallow, calm waters make for good swimming conditions; and sailing, kayaking, fishing, and surfing are all popular activities. All-terrain vehicle tours and sailing cruises are also available.

 

 

Located on Costa Rica's northern Pacific Coast, Tamarindo Beach is five hours from San José by car and only an hour from the international airport in Liberia. There are also two public bus routes to Tamarindo from San José and Liberia, as well as shared shuttle options from both cities.

 

Although the temperature is always mild, high season is November through April when days are warm and sunny. This is also nesting season for leatherback and green sea turtles in nearby Playa Grande, where observation tours are available. The summer months of June through September often see torrential amounts of rain.

 

Located inside Barra Honda National Park, a 1.5-hour drive from Tamarindo, these well-preserved limestone caves feature stalactites, stalagmites, and other calcareous formations. They are a big draw for eco-tourists and climbers, but keep in mind, you’ll need to be outfitted with the appropriate climbing gear and be accompanied by a guide to explore the caves.

Tambomachay might not be one of the biggest ruins in Cusco, but it’s definitely one of the highest, topping out at nearly 13,000 feet. 

Located five miles from the city center, Tambomachay is also known as “the Baths of the Inca” due to the multiple baths which are scattered about the site. The Inca held water in a spiritual regard as one of the sources of life, and the spring waters at Tambomachay are masterfully diverted into aqueducts, baths, and stone-carved waterways which would divert the water through the stone. Given the site’s natural beauty and the spiritual significance of its waters, it’s believed by historians that Tambomachay was reserved for Inca royalty. 

When visiting Tambomachay today, be sure to admire the smooth mosaic of stone which forms the walls of the ruin. The way in which the stones are perfectly stacked on each other is an example of the handicraft for which the Inca were famous. Also, take a moment to notice the way that the multi-tiered terraces are built into the mountainside in such a way that they nearly blend as a natural part of the landscape. This is a relaxing, powerful, and meditative spot that sees far fewer visitors than some of the more famous ruins.

To visit Tambomachay, you can either take part in a guided tour or visit the site independently. For those who choose to visit on their own and are looking for a bit of a workout, consider riding a bus to the site and then strolling the five miles back towards the city. Remember to take it slow, however, as the altitude can easily be felt, and be sure to admire the views of Cusco that stretch out to the surrounding valley.

Unforgiving winds, a rugged coastline and narrow passageways made the Strait of Magellan one of the most deadly channels for early explorers attempting to navigate by ship. But today, this historic route, which was successfully navigated for the first time by Ferdinand Magellan in 1520, has become a popular spot for adventurers, seamen and travelers looking to experience the treacherous waters of this South American spot. Luckily, new ship technology and expert captains make for a much safer passage, but the rich history, incredible landscapes and unforgettable historic tales still make for a truly remarkable experience on the sea. 

Puno’s most enigmatic attraction lies 35km (21mi) from the port city, overlooking Lake Umayo with dignified mystery. Tours are easily arranged; consider coming around sunset, and staying to enjoy the starry skies.

The Chullpas of Sillustani are a collection of striking burial towers, among the finest examples of such architecture in the Andes. Though no one can be sure of their age, they appear to have been under construction just prior to the Inca conquest of the local Aymara-speaking Colla people, around 1300 AD. They most resemble, however, the neat stonework of the Tiwanaku people, who controlled the southern shore of the lake from about 500 AD to 1100 AD.

More advanced than even the Inca’s finest masonry, these towers reach with neatly squared geometric regularity toward the clear, high-desert sky. The tallest are 12 meters (40ft) high; others probably exceeded that, but have long since been dynamited by tomb robbers. Some have detailed carvings and all open eastward toward the sunrise.

Archaeologists have long hypothesized that these were the tombs of the Aymara elite, buried in baskets that trapped them in fetal position. The dry, desiccating desert air mummified many of the presumably regal corpses, surrounded with offerings such as ceramic bowls of grain, guinea pigs and gold (the last now displayed in Puno’s excellent Dreyer Museum.

More recently, archaeologists discovered the bodies of 44 children around a 10m-tall (32ft) tower called Chullpa Lagarto. They were apparently sacrificed some 700 years ago, perhaps by the Colla people during some sort of conflict.  A volcanic stone was placed on each of their chests and they were also surrounded with food, ceramics and other offerings. Perhaps the adult corpses were not royalty at all, but the revered remains of a human sacrifice.

Based in the São Paulo neighborhood Vila Madalena, Sunset Square is known for its stunning view of the city’s downtown core. Called Praça do Por do Sol in Portuguese, the official name of is actually Praça Cel. Custódio Fernandes Pinheiros, though you won’t catch the locals saying that.

 

Surrounded by streets filled with nightclubs, restaurants, and street art, Vila Madalena is known for its nightlife and as a center for Sao Paulo bohemian art and culture, and Sunset Square is the epicenter of that counter culture. Come on weekends to join the locals who sit, picnic, read, walk, and play music here.

It’s possible to visit any time of night or day, but it’s best to visit Sunset Square just before sunset. With a name like Sunset Square, it’s no surprise that at sundown, up to 2,000 people congregate on the lawn to watch the sun sink behind Sao Paolo’s towering skyscrapers. The park tends to empty out quite quickly, so visitors are cautioned not to linger too long after dark, in spite of security measures. 

Between bohemian Barranco, glitzy Miraflores, and the coastal streets of Chorillos, the Surco district is a part of Lima that few visitors see. Located well off of the tourist trail—though physically not far away—Surco is stocked with universities and hundreds of manicured gardens. It’s a place that was heavily looted and destroyed in the War of the Pacific with Chile, and a place where locals gather in droves in the green oasis of the parks. Take a stroll through the Surco district’s very own Plaza Mayor, which is punctuated by the baroque Iglesia Santo Apostol rising up from the square. While there aren’t a lot of formal sights, Surco becomes a sight unto itself whenever it hosts a festival. The Vendimia festival in the second week of March is an ode to the district’s wine harvest, when downtown Surco becomes festively punchdrunk on music, drinking, and song. Other than the plaza, churches, and festivals, the museums in Surco—while small in scale—are refreshingly free of crowds. For a look at centuries of riches and warfare, stop at the privately owned Gold and Weapon Museum and its 20,000 pre-Columbian artifacts. You can also find weapons from the days of the conquistadores, and even look at a gleaming sword that was used by Francisco Pizarro. 

Guests at Tango Porteno have the option to add dinner to the tango show experience. The dinner portion is served as a three course menu, with several options for appetizers, entrees and desserts.

Tumbling waterfalls, luxury spa and dining options, and the dramatic backdrop of Arenal Volcano set Tabacon Hot Springs apart from Costa Rica’s many thermal springs. Numerous pools dotting the Tabacon River create a completely natural hot spring experience on a private rain forest reserve, perfect for a day of pure relaxation. 

Adventure-weary travelers flock to Tabacon Hot Springs for a welcome change of pace from endless action. Spend the day soaking in volcanically heated waters—taking breaks to swim up to the waterfront bar or fly down the thermal water slide—for a true taste of pura vida. Though it is possible to stay at an on-site resort for unlimited hot spring access, most visitors opt for full-day or half-day passes with upgrades including meals, spa packages, and specialty experiences such as a nighttime soak under the moonlight. Many Arenal area tours, such as those from San Jose, include a visit to the hot springs as well—an ideal way to unwind after an action-packed volcano hike or rain forest tour.  

Though it feels remote, Tabacon Hot Springs is located just off a main highway (Route 142) and is an easy drive from La Fortuna or San Jose. Many also visit as part of a day tour of the Arenal area, thanks to the location of the private rain forest reserve between Arenal Volcano and Arenal Volcano National Park. 

Tabacon Hot Springs is open all year but is most enjoyable during the dry season from late November through mid-April. Enjoy the maximum recharge from the mineral-rich waters by visiting after an adventure-packed day.

The diversity of pools at Tabacon is one of its greatest draws. Pools range from 72–105°F (22–40°C) and offer big spaces perfect for playing and socializing as well as more secluded nooks. There is also a cool-water pool on-site.

Perched on a hilltop, overlooking the glittering waters of Lake Suchitlán, Suchitoto is among El Salvador’s most picturesque towns, a maze of timeworn cobblestones and well-preserved colonial architecture. 

Suchitoto’s tranquil surroundings and laid-back pace of life make it a popular retreat for capital dwellers, as well as nurturing a lively arts scene, and the streets are dotted with artist’s workshops, galleries and cozy cafés. The town’s most famous landmark is the striking white Iglesia Santa Lucia, but the area is most celebrated for its natural assets, with the neighboring Suchitlán reservoir sheltering a large variety of migratory birds and nearby sights including the Los Tercios Waterfall.

Learn about the plants and animals of Panama at Soberanía National Park, a tropical forest just 20 minutes outside of Panama City. Located on the east side of the Panama Canal and forming part of its water basin, this is one of the most accessible of the country’s protected parks, with almost 55,000 acres of forest to explore.

Declared a protected area in 1980, there are some 1,300 plant species, 79 reptile and 55 amphibian species in the park. Among the 105 mammal species are monkeys and tamarins, sloths and anteaters, which are often spotted by visitors.

In addition to the site’s fishing activities, eco-studies and hiking, it’s also one of the best bird-watching areas of Central America, as bird-watchers come from all over to spot some of the 525 known species. The Rainforest Discovery Center has an observation tower for visitors to look out from, but for a more active route, hike along the Pipeline Road to spot birds.

The long Las Cruces Trail (Camino de Cruces) crosses the park from east to west, uniting the Atlantic and Pacific, and was used by the Spaniards to transport merchandise and treasure from South America. The original cobblestone that was laid 600 years ago can still be seen here.

St. John’s Cathedral dates back to the early 1800s and is the oldest Anglican church in Central America. The cathedral, located in Belize City, is not only a place where the congregation still celebrates their faith, but it also has a big historical influence due to its colonial past. When the colonial empires fought over control of what was back then known as British Honduras, the cathedral was built by slave labor over eight years. Painstakingly, with bricks brought on ships all the way from Europe. The façade looks humble, but it just so happens that this little Anglican church is the only place outside of England, where real kings were crowned.

Four kings of the Indian Miskito tribe, which inhabited the Mosquito coast, were coronated with full British ceremonial pomp that rivaled the kingly ceremonies back in London. Of course, the Mosquito Kings were an effort by the British to keep the tribe on their good side and protect power, land and wealth from the rivaling Spanish invaders. The attempt was short-lived, but today you can still delve into some unique royal history and admire the beautiful stained glass windows, the mahogany pews and the antique organ. 

It’s easy to see why Rio de Janeiro was nicknamed the “Marvelous City” when you’re gazing down at it from the heights of Sugarloaf Mountain (Pao de Acucar). From its soaring 1,300-foot (396-meter) summit, the city unfolds around you, with views of the iconic Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, the Tijuca Forest, and the Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) statue standing tall atop Corcovado Mountain to the west.

As one of Rio’s most popular and enduring attractions, Sugarloaf Mountain deserves a spot on every itinerary, especially for first-time visitors. A two-stage cable car takes riders to the summit high above the city, with the first ascending 722 feet (220 meters) to Morro da Urca, where it’s possible to grab a snack as you overlook Guanabara Bay or hop on a helicopter tour. The second cable car ascends to the top, an experience included in most Rio sightseeing tours that also stop at attractions such as Corcovado Mountain, Santa Teresa’s art district, Copacabana Beach, Sambadrome, and Maracanã Stadium. Visitors pressed for time can pre-book skip-the-line Sugarloaf entrance with priority access to the cable car.

Sugarloaf Mountain is a stop on almost every city tour, and most travelers get to the top by taking a cable car ride. Those with energy to burn can make the relatively easy hike up Urca Hill from the ground station to Morro da Urca (30 to 40 minutes), then ride the second cable car to the top. Buses 511 and 512 stop at the ground station on Avenida Pasteur.

Weekend afternoons tend to be the most crowded at Sugarloaf Mountain, with the longest cable car lines and the biggest crowds at the top. To avoid the lines and heat, plan for a morning tour. For one of the most impressive views the city has to offer, visit on a clear day just before sunset.

Rock climbers from around the globe come to Rio for a chance to scale Sugarloaf Mountain, where 40 routes of varying difficulty lead to the top. Guided climbing tours outfit participants with all gear and equipment necessary to make the ascent with no previous experience required.