Latin America is full of bold flavor, sultry dance moves, and celebratory culture that invites travelers from all over the world to partake in its ambiance. Check out Cheapflights’ Top 10 picks for must-see destinations in Latin America, and start planning your vacation now.
For helpful hints, read our guide on How to Save on Your Trip to Latin America.
Buenos Aires
A city that tangos its way into the hearts of travelers, Buenos Aires is stylish capital of Argentina. It boasts high fashion and distinct architecture, and a serious love for gaucho parties that celebrate a love of food and wine. Book your flight to hang with the portenos.
Rio de Janeiro
The world adores it for Carnival, but Rio is truly a year-round hub. Nicknamed the “Marvelous City,” it has a laid-back attitude supplemented only with the high energy of Samba, nightclubs and music. Rio shows off its natural side through white-sand beaches like Ipanema and Copacabana, as well as rainforests and a world-renowned harbor. You get the best of both worlds when you travel to this Brazilian city.
Caye Caulker, Belize
Almost a secret, Caye Caulker is a tiny coral island off the coast of Belize. Once you’re there, think beyond white-sand beaches: This place has white-sand streets. No cars are allowed, golf carts are the only form of motorized transportation, and residents tout a “no shoes” motto.” Take advantage of the many activities Caye Caulker has to offer like manatee tours, sea kayaking lessons and wind surfing rides.
Galapagos Islands
An archipelago made up of volcanic islands in Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a must-see for nature-loving travelers. The never-ending list of exotic animals is so used to being the authority, that they’re mostly oblivious to human contact. See them first hand on a boat, or take the plunge and snorkel with sea lions and sea turtles.
Patagonia
The southernmost tip of South America and covering part of Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is a vast range of beautiful lands that include jagged mountain ranges, deserts, glaciers, lakes and forests. Visit the San Julian Penguin Colony to see hundreds of penguins and the Cueva Las Manos to see famous cave paintings that date back to 8,000 BC.
Easter Island
This little island far out in the depths of the South Pacific is home to the largest body of archaeological sites in that part of the globe. Aside from its breathtaking volcanic craters, Rano Kau and Rano Raraku, Easter Island is known mostly for its gigantic, mysterious stone busts – the Moai, which stem from ancient Polynesian culture. It’s a long haul, but if you book a flight to Chile, you’ll be there in no time.
Machu Picchu
Discovered in 1911, Machu Picchu is considered one of the most beautiful ancient sites in the world. The Incas began building in AD1400, and it is now a historic sanctuary and a UNECO World Heritage Site. Voyage to Peru to see the lost Inca city.
Roatan
Roatan is the largest and most popular of the Bay Islands, and for good reason – there’s something here for everyone. Touted as a snorkeler and diver’s paradise, the island is saturated in rich, living reef, and offers a relentless number of underwater species. On land, stroll through botanical gardens, butterfly and iguana farms and family recreational areas. Discover Roatan on your trip to Honduras.
Puerto Vallarta
Everyone loves Mexico, but Puerto Vallarta takes the cake when it comes to combining culture with jaw-dropping scenery. Situated between the glistening Bay of Banderas and the towering Sierra Madre Mountains, Puerto Vallarta is a mecca for outdoor activities, and boasts an incredible range of art, music and cuisine.
Montevideo
Uruguay’s capital and largest city, Montevideo is home to a thriving music, theater, and arts scene that shows off in its art deco and neoclassical buildings downtown. Check out Ciudad Vieja – Montevideo’s Old Town, or walk along The Rambla, a waterside roadway that offers biking, fishing, and drinking at sunset.
