Central & South America attractions

Though some call Bariloche "Argentina's Switzerland," the area stands on its own. Bellavista Hill translates to "beautiful view," and it delivers on that promise. The top-down view is a panorama of mountains, lakes, and little islands in the lakes that seem to form a jigsaw puzzle. Most summit Bellavista in two and four hours.

The rugged beauty of Nevado Tres Cruces National Park (Parque Nacional Nevado Tres Cruces) draws visitors to the high desert of Chile’s Atacama region. With soaring peaks— including Chile’s highest, Ojos del Salado—and lagoons, the park is home to an array of wildlife, such as flamingos in summer, vicuñas, guanacos, giant and horned coots, and, occasionally, condors and pumas.

Toboggan down a water slide, float along the Lazy River, splash in Latin America’s biggest wave pool, or relax in a hot tub at Margarita Island Water Park (Parque el Agua Isla de Margarita). Adults and children alike will find plenty to enjoy at Venezuela’s first water park, which sits on a spectacular beachside location.

Within the 5.1 million-acre (2.1 million-hectare) Maya Biosphere Reserve, created by UNESCO in 1990 is Tikal National Park, El Zotz and Naachtún-Dos Lagunas Biotopes (Uaxatún), Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Park, and El Mirador National Monument—along with some 200 other Mayan ruins, mountains, rivers, cenotes, hiking trails, and lakes including Lake Petén Itza, gateway to the reserve.

Home to more than 100 different plant species, Parque El Gallineral is the jewel in the crown of San Gil’s natural landscapes. It’s hugged by two arms of the Curití River, which makes it appear as an island and helps the mosses, kapok trees, and atmospheric curtains of foliage thrive.

Dive into the world beneath the waves at Arica’s Sea Museum (Museo del Mar de Arica). By showcasing the region’s rich maritime heritage, this small but fascinating museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the sea, and its influence on Arica.

Corazones Beach (Playa Corazones) is a rocky and rugged destination south of the North Chilean city of Arica. The beach is known for its stunning ocean views, sea caves, and wildlife-spotting opportunities—and it reportedly has some of the best sunset views in the area.

The closest beach to the city center, Arica’s curve-shaped El Laucho Beach (Playa El Laucho) is known for its calm and inviting waters. A popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city, El Laucho is the ideal destination for a quick beach escape while visiting Arica.

Overlooking Copacabana from the south, Horca del Inca is a hilltop archeological ruin from an astronomical observatory that predates Incan settlement in the area (despite its name, which translates as “Gallows of the Inca”). Only a few stone pillars remain among the ruins on the rocky hillside, once used to chart the winter solstice, but the views of the town from the site provide another reason to climb up.