Choose from 1,039 Fun Things to Do in Central And South America
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Santa Marta Historic Center
Santa Marta, surrounded by beaches and mountains, was the first city founded by the Spaniards in Colombia. Due to its cultural and historic importance, the historic center of Santa Marta was declared a national monument in the 1960's. Five years ago it underwent a costly renovation and is proud to show off its new face and is best explored on foot.
The best place to start is from the center point of all towns in Colombia, the Simon Bolivar Plaza. The nearby Bank of Republic Library presently houses the Tayrona Gold Museum. Take time to see the displays of the fascinating gold pieces made centuries ago by the Tayrona indigenous group.
Construction of the white-washed Santa Marta Cathedral was completed towards the end of the 18th century. Some of the features of the cathedral are its dome-shaped bell tower, the floor plan in the shape of a cross, the main area's vaulted ceiling and the side chapel marble screens. There's also a statue of the Virgin that accompanied the Spanish founders.
The Customs House (La Casa de la Aduana) is another example of Colonial architecture and the first building erected in the area. Other buildings to see are the Santo Domingo Convent and the Town Council.
Don't miss the statue of the beloved national football (soccer) hero Carlos Valderrama, who was born in Santa Marta. Known as El Pibe (The Kid), Valderrama was an outstanding Colombian football player. This immense statue stands outside the football stadium in Santa Marta shows off the football player's distinctive blond hair and playing style.
Afterward the tour of the historic center, spend some time at one of the restaurants or cafes around the beautiful Parque de los Novios.
The best place to start is from the center point of all towns in Colombia, the Simon Bolivar Plaza. The nearby Bank of Republic Library presently houses the Tayrona Gold Museum. Take time to see the displays of the fascinating gold pieces made centuries ago by the Tayrona indigenous group.
Construction of the white-washed Santa Marta Cathedral was completed towards the end of the 18th century. Some of the features of the cathedral are its dome-shaped bell tower, the floor plan in the shape of a cross, the main area's vaulted ceiling and the side chapel marble screens. There's also a statue of the Virgin that accompanied the Spanish founders.
The Customs House (La Casa de la Aduana) is another example of Colonial architecture and the first building erected in the area. Other buildings to see are the Santo Domingo Convent and the Town Council.
Don't miss the statue of the beloved national football (soccer) hero Carlos Valderrama, who was born in Santa Marta. Known as El Pibe (The Kid), Valderrama was an outstanding Colombian football player. This immense statue stands outside the football stadium in Santa Marta shows off the football player's distinctive blond hair and playing style.
Afterward the tour of the historic center, spend some time at one of the restaurants or cafes around the beautiful Parque de los Novios.
Address: Santa Marta, Colombia
From $ 36
Taganga
Taganga is a sleepy fishing village and beach town near the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Tayrona National Parks. The view from Taganga's coast is spectacular, as are the sunsets. The small town has just a few paved roads and the rest are dusty - or muddy "“ depending on the season.
Taganga is next to the stunning Tayrona National Park, though it's a bit of a trek getting there. If you're interested in visiting the beaches at Tayrona, it takes an hour by bus to get to the park, followed by a couple of hours of hiking through the national park to get to a beach. Another option is to get a boat directly from Taganga to the beaches of Tayrona.
Both diving and getting a diving certification are inexpensive, which draws diving enthusiasts to Taganga. Many of the activities that can be booked in Santa Marta can also be booked from Tayrona. This is the place to head out not only to The Lost City and Tayrona National Park, but also farther east to La Guajira. Or go take a short hike over one of Taganga's hills to Playa Grande.
With a number of beach bars and a few discos, the nightlife is often considered to be better in Taganga than Santa Marta, attracting both Colombians and foreigners. Even if your travels take you away from the town during the day, head back to Taganga in time to watch the sunset and join the rumba (party) on the beach.
Taganga is next to the stunning Tayrona National Park, though it's a bit of a trek getting there. If you're interested in visiting the beaches at Tayrona, it takes an hour by bus to get to the park, followed by a couple of hours of hiking through the national park to get to a beach. Another option is to get a boat directly from Taganga to the beaches of Tayrona.
Both diving and getting a diving certification are inexpensive, which draws diving enthusiasts to Taganga. Many of the activities that can be booked in Santa Marta can also be booked from Tayrona. This is the place to head out not only to The Lost City and Tayrona National Park, but also farther east to La Guajira. Or go take a short hike over one of Taganga's hills to Playa Grande.
With a number of beach bars and a few discos, the nightlife is often considered to be better in Taganga than Santa Marta, attracting both Colombians and foreigners. Even if your travels take you away from the town during the day, head back to Taganga in time to watch the sunset and join the rumba (party) on the beach.
Practical Info
One of the easiest ways to get from Santa Marta to Taganga, which is 15 minute ride, is by taxi. Since the taxis have no meters, make sure to agree on a price before you get in the taxi. There are also buses that take you from downtown Santa Marta.
Address: Taganga, Colombia
From $ 36
Uaxactún
Uaxatún (wa-sha-TOON) is best known as the most accurate observatory in the Mayan world. The city was founded centuries before Tikal, and may well be the birthplace of the Mayan calendar and writing system; the oldest known arch in the Mayan world is also here. It was conquered by Tikal in 378AD, but probably become a learning center for elites from the capital, rather than a vassal state.
Today, its pyramids and plazas are interspersed with the tiny houses of a modern village (also called Uaxatún), once dedicated to the gathering of chicle. Tourism is now a small but growing business.
The city's original Mayan name, Siaan K'aan, or "Born in Heaven" reflects the city's astronomical obsession. Solstices are marked by temple pyramids, which form part of the oldest known Mayan calendar. While crowds come to see these impressive alignments, you may have the site to yourself other times of year.
Today, its pyramids and plazas are interspersed with the tiny houses of a modern village (also called Uaxatún), once dedicated to the gathering of chicle. Tourism is now a small but growing business.
The city's original Mayan name, Siaan K'aan, or "Born in Heaven" reflects the city's astronomical obsession. Solstices are marked by temple pyramids, which form part of the oldest known Mayan calendar. While crowds come to see these impressive alignments, you may have the site to yourself other times of year.
Practical Info
Uaxactún is located 87km (54 miles) from Flores, 23km (14 miles) north of Tikal. It can only be reached in 4WD vehicles or public buses. In rainy season, the road may be impassable.
Buses leave the Santa Elena market in Flores in the afternoon, returning very early the following morning. Since you need to obtain permits and pay fees at Tikal, independent travelers usually spend the first day at Tikal, catch the afternoon bus to Uaxactún, then spend two nights in the village, with a full day at the ruins.
Buses leave the Santa Elena market in Flores in the afternoon, returning very early the following morning. Since you need to obtain permits and pay fees at Tikal, independent travelers usually spend the first day at Tikal, catch the afternoon bus to Uaxactún, then spend two nights in the village, with a full day at the ruins.
Address: Uaxactún, Guatemala
From $ 80
Villa de Leyva
Situated far from any major trade routes in a high-altitude valley, the colonial town of Villa de Leyva has seen little development over the last 400 years. As a result, it is one of the few towns in Colombia that has seemingly frozen in time, with much of its original style and architecture still intact; its streets are paved in stone and many of its whitewashed buildings date back to the 16th century.
While this photogenic town remains a sleepy and traditional place during the week, in recent years it has attracted an influx of tourists and expats on weekends. As a result, a number of hotels, restaurants and tourist shops have sprung up, and the town's narrow alleys become abuzz with day-trippers from Bogota each Saturday and Sunday.
Most people tend to visit Villa de Leyva on a day trip from Bogota, but to fully appreciate this charming colonial town, join a three-day tour instead.
Practical Info
Villa de Leyva is about a three-hour drive from Bogota. It's possible to catch a bus from the city; they leave hourly throughout the morning and mid-afternoon.
Did You Know? In 1954, the town of Villa de Leyva was declared a national monument in order to protect and preserve its ancient architecture.
Address: Villa de Leyva, Boyacá, Colombia
From $ 60
Wall of Tears (El Muro de las Lágrimas)
At first glance this stone wall doesn't seem like much, but it is the history behind its creation that makes it meaningful. The Wall of Tears was constructed by hundreds of prisoners held captive in a penal colony on the island from 1945 to 1959. The colony was created by then President Jose María Velasco Ibarra in 1944, using infrastructure left by the U.S. military after World War II. Prisoners were instructed to build the wall to keep busy, and they would haul and cut large chunks of volcanic rock in the hot sun to do so.
The prison was eventually abandoned after a revolt in 1959, but the wall stands as a testament to the suffering and the loss of many lives here. The wall stands nearly 65 feet tall and is known as the Wall of Tears by locals who claim to hear the cries of prisoners and feel the heavy energy around the wall.
Practical Info
The Wall of Tears is located on Isabela Island in the Galapagos. It located roughly three miles west of Puerto Villamil. The road leading to it is closed to motor vehicles, but visitors can still walk or bike there.
Address: Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
From $ 856
Sao Paulo Museum of Sacred Art (Museu de Arte Sacra)
Based in the grand 18th-century Luz Monastery, the Sacred Art Museum of Sao Paulo (Museu de Arte Sacra de Sao Paulo) is dedicated to ecclesiastical Brazilian works from the 17th to 20th centuries.
The collection was started by the first archbishop of Sao Paulo, Dom Duarte Leopoldo e Silva, who gathered important sacred art from the chapels that were being demolished after the introduction of the Republic, though the museum itself didn't open until 1970.
On a visit, look out for works by the renowned 18th-century sculptor Antônio Aleijadinho ,and visit the jewel room to see solid gold and silver artifacts. A newer addition to the exhibits on show is the section dedicated to nativity art "” head to the annex to see the impressive Neapolitan manger scene.
Practical Info
On Avenida Tiradentes, 676, the Museu de Arte Sacra is 50m from Metrô Tiradentes, and near the Mercado Municipal and Pinacoteca. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, (9am - 5pm weekdays, 10am-6pm weekends (last entrance 30 minutes before closing). Entrance is free on Saturdays. Otherwise, entry costs R $6 for adults R $3 for students. Collections are labelled in Spanish, Portuguese, and English.
Address: Avenida Tiradentes 676, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Admission: Varies
From $ 195
Yellow House
Built using funds donated by Andrew Carnegie in 1912, Costa Rica's Yellow House is a noteworthy (and noticeable!) building that houses the Central American Court of Justice. It has since been appropriated for use as a presidential home, a temporary facility for the Legislative Assembly and, most often, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cult.
Travelers can explore the grounds on their own or take a self-guided tour through one of San Jose's most famous buildings. Once a week, local history experts offer official tours, which include a visit to the Museum Marques Manuel Maria Peralta, a gallery named after one of the country's most important diplomats that is stationed on site.
Practical Info
The Yellow House is located on 7th Avenue between 11 and 13 streets. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Guided tours take place once a week by appointment.
Address: Calle 11, San Jose, Costa Rica
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm
From $ 58
Witch Market (Mercado de Brujos)
Shamans. Potions. Witchcraft. Elixir. None of these are words that many travelers equate with the coastline of northern Peru. Traditional healing, however, is a central part to the different subsets of traditional Peruvian society, and historically Chiclayo has been an instrumental city in the gathering of shamans and healers.
Located inside of the Mercado Modelo"”a large central market by the Plaza de Armas that is frequented by everyday shoppers"”the Chiclayo Witch Market is a fascinating stop for those who can stomach the surroundings. In these cluttered, colorful, and odiferous alleyways, healers hawk everything from dried snakes and monkey skulls to pieces of Andean condors. A traditional drink made from San Pedro cactus is known for its hallucinogenic effects, and it is sometimes offered to market visitors who befriend a local merchant. For a variable fee, traditional shamans can also be hired to perform ceremonial readings and healings, although be forewarned the process might involve a guinea pig or vomit-inducing concoctions.
Practical Info
The Chiclayo Witch Market can be found in the Mercado Modelo, not far from the Plaza de Armas. Market hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with the morning hours being the busiest time to visit. Though visiting the market can be entertaining, travelers are encouraged to be aware of their belongings and only frequent shamans they feel comfortable approaching.
Address: Mercado Modelo, Chiclayo, Peru
Hours: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday
From $ 26
Túcume (Valley of the Pyramids)
When comparing the ancient ruins of the world, Túcume might be the most fascinating site that most people have never heard of. Located 21 miles to the north of Chiclayo, Túcume is home to 26 pyramids that were built over 1,000 years ago. One of these pyramids"”Huaca Larga"”has a base that is over 2,000 ft. in length and was the largest pyramid in the world.
Due to heavy rains, however, these dusty, sand-carved, ancient pyramids have been reduced to eroded mounds, although archeological discoveries continue to be made in the burial chambers below. At Huaca Larga, 119 bodies were discovered deep beneath the pyramid, and evidence suggests that the bodies were part of a mass human sacrifice to the gods. Other findings are less grotesque, such as the murals and carvings of the Lambayeque god Naymlap, a revered deity who emerged from the sea and gave rise to the powerful city.
As the ancient people of the Lambayeque Valley constructed these towering pyramids, they subsequently abandoned the massive structures when they felt it would please the gods. Today, the area around Túcume is still largely abandoned, the main reason being that local villagers are wary of the spiritual past; only healers and traditional shamans will visit Túcume by night, and there is a palpable sense of power and history when touring Túcume today.
Practical Info
Túcume is located 20 miles from Chiclayo and is accessible by car or taxi. The drive from Chiclayo is about 30 minutes, and it's a convenient stop on a visit to Batán Grande or the Royal Tombs Museum of Sipan. When touring Túcume's 540 acres, the trail leading up toward Cerro Purgatorio provides the most striking views of the ruins.
Address: Chiclayo, Peru
From $ 122
San Francisco Church
The San Francisco Church and Monastery in Salta, Argentina was originally built in the early 1600s, but it has been reconstructed and remodeled several times. In 1870, architect Luis Giorgi constructed a tall tower on the front of the church, and at 174 feet (53 meters) tall, it is the highest tower of its kind in South America. In 1909, a clock was added to the tower. In 1915 marble floors were installed and the church was set up to start receiving electricity. It has a long, narrow nave that is ornately decorated. The church's facade designed in a Baroque style and is distinct in its red and yellow color scheme.
The church has an important library where old books are kept, including rare and priceless antique editions. Several pieces of valuable art can also be found in the church and in its small museum. The San Francisco Church was declared a National Historical Monument on July 14, 1941.
Practical Info
The San Francisco Church is located at Córdoba 33.
Address: Córdoba 33, Salta, Argentina
From $ 20
Sao Paulo Football Museum
Located inside Estádio Municipal Paulo Machado de Carvalho (a soccer stadium located in the Pacaembu neighborhood of Sao Paulo), the Museum du Futebol (Football Museum) is a 6,900-square-meter museum dedicated to the history and importance of soccer in Brazilian culture.
The museum is located underneath the bleachers, and was constructed over 13 months and inaugurated in 2009. Valued at USD $12 million, the Museum du Futebol has 16 rooms of permanent exhibits, as well as several temporary exhibitions. Permanent exhibitions give visitors an opportunity to see the history and importance of soccer in Brazilian culture, download their own "goal" moments, and view the soccer pitch. Much of the Museum's content is multimedia, and written content is provided in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Audio guides are also available in these languages.
Practical Info
The museum is open from 9am-6pm Tuesday-Sunday, and closed on Mondays. Hours are changed to accommodate games being played, so it is best to check ahead. Entrance to the museum is R $6, except on Saturday when admission is free to all. To get to the Museum du Futebol, ride the subway to Clinicas Station. From there, walk to the bus stop at Dr. Arnaldo Avenue, 500 and board any of the Jardim Brasil/177C-10, Morro Grande/917M-10, or Barra Funda/6232-10 buses. Get off at the Pacaembu Avenue, 1.721 stop.
Address: Estádio do Pacaembu, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Hours: 9am-6pm Tuesday-Sunday
Admission: R$6
From $ 4
Tortuga Island (Isla Tortuga)
A postcard-perfect paradise of white-sand beaches, swaying coconut palms, and sapphire-blue water rife with marine life, Tortuga Island (Isla Tortuga) is an ideal spot to swim, snorkel, or bask in the sunshine. The island is only accessible from Costa Rica's main cities via a scenic boat ride across the Gulf of Nicoya"”an extra perk for your vacation.
The Basics
While a mix of activities, such as hiking, canopy tours, and pickup volleyball games keep visitors well entertained on land, most travelers visit Tortuga Island for its waters. The volcanic reef surrounding the island is home to diverse wildlife, such as moray eels, spinner dolphins, and octopi"”plus three shipwrecks"”which make it a great spot to snorkel or dive.
Tortuga Island is an ideal day trip destination, with day trip cruises typically running from San Jose and Jaco on mainland Costa Rica and allowing visitors to glide past some of the 23 islands scattered around the Gulf of Nicoya. Opt for a glass-bottom boat or sea kayak tour for a chance to admire the underwater scenery without getting wet
Things to Know Before You Go
- Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.
- Bars, restaurants, and local vendors offer food and drinks.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
- Tortuga Island is kid-friendly, and the day cruises to the island are popular among families.
How to Get There
Tortuga Island is located just off the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, close to the Curu Wildlife Refuge, and is only accessible by boat. Operators depart from a variety of ports, including Jaco, Montezuma, Puntarenas, and San Jose. Most boat trips include snorkeling, meals, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
Tortuga Island is open year-round, with peak season running from late December through January. The island is only accessible via day tour, as there is no lodging on Tortuga. Though the official average of 120 visitors per week seems delightfully low, be aware that on weekends and in December and January, those numbers spike.
Turtle Islands
Tortuga Island is actually comprised of two islands, Alcatraz and Tolinga, but just about everyone refers to them as Isla Tortuga, or Turtle Island, named after the area's most popular wildlife resident.
Address: Costa Rica
From $ 135
Santa Marta Favela
The colorful, diagonally striped houses of the Santa Marta Favela cascade down the steep hillsides above Botafogo in Rio de Janeiro and house a community of residents living in a challenging socioeconomic environment. Courtesy of Dutch artists Dre Urhahn and Jeroen Koolhaas' Favela Painting Foundation, the artwork is meant to draw attention to populations that are traditionally excluded or overlooked, including that in Santa Marta.
The Basics
The innovative painting of the Santa Marta Favela has drawn global attention, especially after it was featured in the music video for Michael Jackson's 1996 hit They Don't Care About Us, a moment marked by a bronze Michael Jackson statue erected in the central square. Since then, guests have included singers Madonna and Alicia Keys, as well as Nobel Prize-winner Muhammad Yunus. Travelers to Rio can visit the favela on an educational guided group tour with the help of a guide who leads lead travelers through the maze-like streets while providing insight and context to the district and its contrast to other parts of Rio. Private tours offer personalized experiences and opportunities for cultural exchange.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A guided tour is the safest way to visit Santa Marta.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on steep, uneven surfaces.
- Ipanema and Leblon beaches are visible from the top of the hill.
- Some tours donate proceeds to Santa Marta nonprofits or employ local guides to give back to the community.
How to Get There
The best way to visit Santa Marta is on a guided tour, many of which include hotel pickup and drop-off. Or, get a moto-taxi to take you to the top of the hill, and walk back down through the neighborhood from there. The site is also accessible by bus.
When to Get There
Rio's climate is warm and comfortable year-round, although January temperatures can rise to 80°F (27°C).
A Note on the Ethics of Favela Tourism
We are sensitive to the issues and concerns surrounding favelas, and we understand that tours of them may not be suitable for everyone. We strongly believe that these tours are educational and allow for a better understanding of life inside Santa Marta.
Address: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
From $ 149
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz is easily the most central island for Galapagos visitors. Welcoming overnight visitors (only four of the islands do so), it can serve as the perfect home base from which you can explore the islands. Though it is not the largest island, it is certainly the most popular urban center. In addition to being the most cosmopolitan, however, Santa Cruz also offers beautiful beaches and wildlife.
Test out the waters by snorkeling in Tortuga Bay, Punta Estrada, or Las Grietas, the three most popular beaches for interacting with the underwater world. If you'd like to try your hand at surfing, there are plenty of opportunities, most notably at Tortuga. When you're ready to dry off, check out the incredible lava tunnels around the island, or visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, the unique conservation organization dedicated to preserving the incredible Galapagos tortoises, as well as sharing information about them with visitors.
Test out the waters by snorkeling in Tortuga Bay, Punta Estrada, or Las Grietas, the three most popular beaches for interacting with the underwater world. If you'd like to try your hand at surfing, there are plenty of opportunities, most notably at Tortuga. When you're ready to dry off, check out the incredible lava tunnels around the island, or visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, the unique conservation organization dedicated to preserving the incredible Galapagos tortoises, as well as sharing information about them with visitors.
Practical Info
The city of Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz's capital, is the hub for most visitors traveling to the Galapagos. From the airport on Isla Baltra, there is a ferry service at the Itabaca Channel, which provides access to the island. Buses from the ferry terminal will leave you in Puerto Ayora, and you can also hire a taxi service.
Address: Ecuador
From $ 169
San Ignacio de Loyola Church
San Ignacio de Loyola Church began as a small adobe church built by the Jesuits in 1675. The structure as it stands today, located in the Montserrat neighborhood, was built between 1710 and 1734, making it the oldest colonial church in Buenos Aires.
San Ignacio de Loyola briefly served as the city cathedral after the Jesuits were expelled in the late eighteenth century. During the social unrest of 1955, this church, along with numerous others in the city, were burned by Peronist mobs.
The church interior required significant renovation, but the facade remained relatively unscathed. The church is immediately recognizable by its Baroque facade fronting Bolivar Street. Within the church, visitors will find several paintings and pieces of furniture dating back to the eighteenth century. Most notable is the canvas of San Ignacio de Loyola, made in 1767.
Practical Info
San Ignacio de Loyola Church is located on the corner of Bolivar and Alsina Streets in Montserrat, two blocks south of Plaza de Mayo.
Address: Bolivar 225, Buenos Aires, Argentina
From $ 41
Sao Paulo Zoo
With over 3,000 animals and about 900,000 square meters of land, the Sao Paulo Zoo is the largest, most comprehensive zoo in Brazil. The zoo is located within the Parque do Estado, a massive reserve of the region's native Atlantic rainforest. This area is a lesser-known oasis of Brazilian jungle on the outskirts of the bustling city, and is a favorite among travelers with children. Due to its massive size, and other activities offered in the park, visitors should allot at least a half-day to explore.
A unique feature of this zoo is its incorporation of the natural landscape, which includes the lush rainforest and several lakes formed by the Ipiranga River. The Sao Paulo Zoo is home to many native animals of Brazil and plays a part in preserving and recovering threatened native species, like the lion monkey, neotropical cats, and the stunning Lear's macaw "” a deep blue parrot with bright yellow markings. There's also an impressive array of colorful, tropical birds, snakes and frogs, many of which are indigenous to Brazil. Other highlights include various species of monkeys, giraffes, elephants, hippos, camels and big cats like tigers and lions.
Practical Info
The Sao Paulo Zoo is located at Av. Miguel Estefno, 4241 "“ Vila ÃÂgua Funda in Sao Paulo. The zoo is open Monday"“Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is R$30 for adults, R$10 for children ages 6 to 12, seniors over 60, and students (with ID). Admission is free for children under 6 and for people with disabilities.
Address: Av. Miguel Estefno, 4241, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Hours: Monday"“Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: R$30 for adults, R$10 for children ages 6 to 12, seniors over 60
From $ 11
Sangay National Park
The extraordinary biodiversity of the Sangay National Park in the Andes mountains of Ecuador led to it being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park also has the natural beauty of three volcanoes, El Altar, Tungurahua and Sangay, the last two of which are active. In fact, the park is named after the Sangay volcano, which in the Quechua language means "to frighten."
Sangay National Park has a range in altitude, from 3,280 to 17,158 feet (1,000 to 5,230 meters), creating a variety of ecosystems that vary from tropical rainforests to glaciers, with perpetual snow on mountaintops.
The park boasts over 324 lakes, including the immense 3.1-mile-long (5-km-long) Pintada Lake. Vegetation varies from lichens and bryophytes in the high páramo zones to Royal Palms in the subtropical rainforest and includes such tropical plants as guayacum, bromeliads, chontaduro and orchids.
This is also the place for animal lovers "” puma, Andean fox, spectacled bear, ocelot, mountain tapir and giant otter are all found here. The park also delights birdwatchers with species such as condor, giant hummingbird and Andean cock-of-the-rock.
It's possible to get around the park by hiking, biking or horseback riding.
Practical Info
Sangay National Park is in Morona-Santiago, Ecuador. Admission is free, and tour guides are recommended.
Address: Morona-Santiago, Ecuador
From $ 179
Sao Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)
Said to host one of the finest art collections in the Southern Hemisphere, Sao Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) is where to go in Brazil if you want to get your fill of Boschs and Bellinis, Van Goghs and Gauguins. There are over 8,000 works in total, and, unusually, the rooms housing the permanent collection are arranged by theme rather than in chronological order.
As you make your way round the large museum, you'll see dozens of Degas sculptures and works by some of Spain's most famous painters including Picasso and Velazquez. Representing the Latin American front, familiar names donning the walls include Diego Rivera, Candido Portinari, Torres Garcia, and Anita Malfatti.
Built in 1968 and designed by the modernist architect Lina Bo, MASP is a flash of red and grey in the heart of Paulista Avenue "” Sao Paulo's main boulevard of gleaming skyscrapers and banking headquarters, and the museum is almost as famous for the iconic concrete and glass building it sits in as it is its art.
MASP is mainly dedicated to international art rather than Brazilian offerings, but there is a permanent collection showing the best of the country's modern artworks, prints, and drawings. Housing a collection of over 40,000 publications in all, the museum is also home to one of Brazil's largest art libraries. There's also a museum restaurant, Prêt no MAM, just to the left of the museum entrance.
Practical Info
Closed Mondays, MASP is open Tuesday-Sunday from 11am-5pm (and until 8pm on Thursdays). Entrance to MASP costs R$15. Lunch is served until 5pm Tuesdays to Fridays, and until 4pm Saturdays and Sundays.
Address: Paulista Avenue, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Hours: Open Tuesday-Sunday 11am-5pm (until 8pm on Thursdays)
Admission: R$15
From $ 75
San Francisco Church
The San Francisco Church, or the Basilica de San Francisco, is one of the best remaining examples of baroque-mestizo architecture in the city and is renowned for its intricately carved façade. The first version of the church was constructed in 1548 but subsequently collapsed during heavy snow sometime around 1610. The church seen today was constructed in the 1740s, and part of the convent is now dedicated as a museum.
The church's façade is a beautiful mix of native and Catholic art, decorated with ornate elements like snakes, dragons, birds, and masked figures. Once inside, the influence of baroque architecture disappears and neoclassical takes over with its cedar wood altars inscribed with gold leaf.
Be sure to wander the Plaza de San Francisco in front of the church. It is one of the busiest places in La Paz, with souvenir streets, bus and taxi stops, and a number of small snack bars and stores. Here you will also find a modern stone sculpture paying homage to Bolivia's three cultures "“ the ancient Tiwanaku, the Incas, and the modern day Bolivians.
Practical Info
San Francisco Church is open Monday through Saturday 4-6pm. Remember that La Paz is 3,500m above sea level, so it's important to have altitude sickness medicine on hand and to pace yourself. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid smoking and alcohol, which can make altitude sickness worse. A local remedy for altitude sickness is mate de coca, an herbal tea made with an infusion of coca leaves that locals swear by.
Address: Sagarnaga, La Paz, Bolivia, Bolivia
Hours: Mon-Sat 4-6pm
From $ 3