Tag: Colombia

20 Bucket List Things to Do in South America

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20 Bucket List Things to Do in South America

South America is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the stunning waterfalls of Iguazu to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, you will find countless bucket list experiences. Are you seeking adventure, relaxation, or an unforgettable experience? South America has something for everyone. I am going to Brazil this week for Carnival! In honor of going to South America tomorrow, here are 20 bucket list things to do in South America.

#1: Visit Machu Picchu in Peru:

photo of machu picchu
Photo by Chelsea Cook on Pexels.com

One of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, Machu Picchu is a must-see for any traveler. Hike the Inca Trail or take the train to witness this ancient citadel high in the Andes Mountains. My sister and I booked a day trip to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco because we were on a time limit; however, you can hike the trail on a multiple day trek!

MACHU PICCHU DAY TRIP FROM CUSCO

#2: Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas:

Journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru and visit ancient ruins, traditional villages, and bustling markets. Explore the archaeological sites of Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Moras, and Moray to learn about the rich history of the Incas. You can see all four sites in one day and learn about the history of the Incas on a tour.

sacred valley full day tour

#3: Explore the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil:

mountain covered with green trees
Photo by Molly Champion on Pexels.com

Discover the diversity of flora and fauna in the Amazon, the largest tropical rainforest in the world. Take a guided tour to see wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds up close.

tour the amazon rainforest

#4: Tango in Buenos Aires, Argentina:

man and woman dancing on the sidewalk
Photo by Los Muertos Crew on Pexels.com

Immerse yourself in the passion and rhythm of the tango in its birthplace, Buenos Aires. Take a tango lesson or watch a live performance in one of the city’s many stages.

tango lesson in buenos aires

#5: Hike the Torres del Paine in Chile:

Experience the stunning landscapes of Patagonia by hiking the famous Torres del Paine circuit. Can you imagine the towering granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and pristine glaciers along the way?

torres del paine hiking tour

#6: Snorkel with Sea Lions in the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador:

orange iguana standing on rocks
Photo by Simon Berger on Pexels.com

Explore this volcanic archipelago off the coast of Ecuador, known for its unique wildlife and pristine natural beauty. Swim with sea lions, snorkel with tropical fish, and observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

snorkel with sea lions

#7: Sip Wine in Mendoza, Argentina:

close up photography of wine glasses
Photo by Valeria Boltneva on Pexels.com

Indulge in world-class cabernets in the lush vineyards of Mendoza. Take a wine tour to sample some of the region’s best varietals and enjoy a gourmet meal overlooking the Andes.

mendoza wine tour

#8: Discover the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia:

uyuni salt flat
Photo by Leonardo Rossatti on Pexels.com

Witness the landscapes of the Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. Marvel at the endless white salt and take incredible photos on a tour. 

uyuni salt flats day trip

#9: Soak in the Iguazu Falls in Argentina and Brazil:

niagara falls in canada
Photo by Tomas Anunziata on Pexels.com

Visit one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, the Iguazu Falls, located on the border of Argentina and Brazil. You can admire the cascading waterfalls from various viewpoints. We recommend taking a boat ride to see the powerful waterfalls up close. You will be so close that you feel the mist on your face.

Iguazu falls boat ride

#10: Raft the Futaleufu River in Chile:

Challenge yourself with a whitewater rafting adventure on the crystal-clear waters of the Futaleufu River in northern Patagonia. Navigate rapids surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

Whitewater rafting adventure

#11: Wander the Historic Streets of Cartagena, Colombia:

Explore the colorful colonial architecture and cobbled streets of Cartagena’s old town on a tour. You can relax on the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean coast nearby.

private tour of cartagena

#12: Witness the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:

women wearing shiny carnival outfits
Photo by Augusto Baldera on Pexels.com

Experience the vibrant energy of the Rio Carnival, one of the largest and most famous carnivals in the world. Dance to samba music, admire the elaborate costumes and watch the samba parade at the Sambadrome. You can book backstage passes, if you cannot make the parade. 

Carnival tickets

#13: Spot Pink Dolphins in the Amazon River, Brazil:

green forest
Photo by Tom Fisk on Pexels.com

Encounter these rare and elusive creatures in the murky waters of the Amazon River. Take a boat tour to spot pink dolphins and other wildlife like caimans, giant river otters, and piranhas.

Amazon river boat tour

#14: Trek to Mount Roraima in Venezuela:

Embark on a challenging multi-day trek to the summit of Mount Roraima, an ancient tabletop mountain in the Gran Sabana region. Marvel at the stunning landscapes, unique flora, and breathtaking views from the top.

mount roraima trek

#15: Explore the Street Art in Valparaiso, Chile:

Wander through the colorful streets of Valparaiso, a bohemian port city known for its vibrant street art scene. Admire murals, graffiti pieces, and urban sculptures that adorn the city’s buildings and alleys on a guided tour.

Valparaiso STREET ART TOUR

#16: Discover Easter Island:

brown statues
Photo by Andrea Vera Sasso on Pexels.com

Uncover the mysteries of Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, and explore the iconic Moai statues scattered across the island. Visit ancient archaeological sites, pristine beaches, and volcanic craters on a day trip.

easter island day trip

#17: Witness the Southern Lights in Patagonia:

bright green aurora in starry sky over mount in twilight
Photo by Bernd Feurich on Pexels.com

Experience the magical spectacle of the Southern Lights, also known as the Aurora Australis, in the remote wilderness of Patagonia in Chile or Argentina. Watch the colorful lights dance across the night sky for an unforgettable natural phenomenon.

#18: Visit Angel Falls:

Discover the tallest waterfall in the world set in the Canaima National Park in Venezuela on this bucket list destination in South America. 

view photos of angel falls

#19: Visit Quito:

The capital city of Ecuador is the highest city in the world, set at 9,350 feet. While you are in Quito, you can see the Equator.

#20: Relax at the Hot Springs Near the Futaleufu River in Chile-

A trip to the Futaleufu offers the chance to relax in hot springs and marvel at the natural beauty of the Patagonian wilderness.

We shared 20 bucket list things to do in South America. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, South America offers a wide range of bucket-list experiences that will leave you in awe of its natural beauty and rich heritage. From ancient ruins to exotic wildlife, from towering mountains to pristine beaches, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy on this diverse and enchanting continent. Pick your favorite destinations and activities from this list and start to plan your next unforgettable journey to South America.

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Similar Post: Top 5 Countries to Visit in South America

How to Spend 5 Days in Cartagena

Published on by Ashley Bonner4 Comments

How to Spend 5 Days in Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a beautiful city along the Caribbean in Colombia. A few highlights of visiting Cartagena are walking or strolling along the cobblestone streets, trying out the local food in the colonial buildings, and taking an island tour to Islas del Rosario. It is totally up to you how you want to spend your trip. You can explore Cartagena without waking up early and having a strict schedule or booking tours; however, we recommend it to get the most out of your trip since you are on a time limit. Below is how to spend 5 days in Cartagena, Colombia. 

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Tips:

-WEATHER? It is HOT! The weather in February is 88 degrees Fahrenheit!

-CHARGER? A United States charger is perfect.

-TIP? Most restaurants include the tip in the bill in Cartagena.

-TRANSPORTATION? Yellow taxis are the easiest way to get around Cartagena.

-MONEY? Locals use the Colombian Peso.

-PACKING? Download our beach trip packing list and travel planner!

Book a Flight and Hotel:

Download the Free Travel Planner

We send a travel planner that you can print out!

Day 1: Arrive in Cartagena-

Relax, unwind, and have a pina colada at your hotel! We recommend taking as much time as you would like to settle in before heading out to watch the sunset at Café Del Mar. This restaurant is the best location to watch the sun go down overlooking the Caribbean Sea, all while you enjoy a delicious meal!

Cafe Del Mar Reservations

Day 2: Islas del Rosario

You MUST go on a Caribbean Cruise to Islas del Rosario. Islas del Rosario has 27 islands! The tour will take you island hopping, and it will be the time of your life! This tour will take you snorkeling to both Isla Grande and Isla Bela. 

Book the Island Tour

Day 3: Explore Cartagena –

Cartagena is beautiful in that there are old colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. Strolling through the Old City is like walking through history! The best spots to visit are Plaza Santo Domingo, Plaza Aduana, and Plaza Bolivar. You will find street performers and historical monuments and statues. The sightseeing tour will stop at major sites to see Colombia and provide local insight about the food, culture, and more.

Book the Sightseeing Private Tour

Day 4: Mud Volcano

El Totumo is a small volcano that you can bathe in! The mud is said to soothe your skin!

The mud volcano tour will be the time of your life!

Mud Volcano Tour

Day 5: Fly Home

Have you ever been to Cartagena? We would love to hear about your experience. 

Top of this post: How to Spend 5 Days in Cartagena

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Let’s Compare: Cartagena Vs. Medellin in Colombia

Published on by Ashley Bonner2 Comments

Let’s Compare: Cartagena Vs. Medellin in Colombia

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Are you not sure of where you want to travel in Colombia? We recommend Cartagena and Medellin; however, we are here to help you decide which one is a better fit. Also, who is to say you can’t visit both? Cartagena is a colorful city in Colombia located along the Caribbean Sea, and Medellin is along the Andes mountains. Both cities are unique in their own way. Without further ado, let’s compare: Cartagena VS. Medellin in Colombia!

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city is home to pastel colonial buildings and cobblestone streets along the Caribbean Sea! Below are the top 5 things to do in Cartagena.

1- Explore the Old City-

Strolling through the Old City is like walking through history! The best spots to visit are Plaza Santo Domingo, Plaza Aduana, and Plaza Bolivar. You will find street performers and historical monuments and statues. 

Book a Walking Tour of Cartagena

2- Caribbean Cruise-

You MUST go on a Caribbean Cruise to Islas del Rosario. Islas del Rosario has 27 islands! The tour will take you island hopping, and it will be the time of your life! You might stop at Playa Blanca, depending on which tour you book! You might even get to go snorkeling or Scuba Diving too.

Book the Islas del Rosario Tour

3- Visit a Mud Volcano-

El Totumo is a small volcano that you can bathe in! The mud is said to soothe your skin!

Book the Mud Bath Tour

4- Watch the Sunset and Enjoy Cocktails at Cafe Del Mar-

Did you know? Cafe Del Mar is the best location to watch the sunset overlooking the Caribbean Sea, all while you enjoy a delicious meal!

Make a Reservation

5- Salsa Bar-

Cafe Havana is known for its live Cuban Music! 

Medellin, Colombia

Medellin has completely transformed itself and is now a safe city to visit in Colombia. The weather is pleasant year-round and is along the Andes Mountains. People call it the city of spring! 

1- Guatape-

We recommend a day trip from Medellin to visit Guatape, a colorful lake town. You will find one of the best attractions in Colombia called El Penol. You can climb 740 steps up the giant rock to get an incredible view below.

Book the Trip to Guatape

2- Museums-

The best museums to visit in Medellin are Casa de la Memoria, Parque Explora, and Museo de Antioquia. The most fascinating museum to visit is the Pablo Escobar Museum.

Book the Pablo Escobar Museum Tour

3- Take a Cable Car to Parque Arvi-

Medellin’s aerial Metrocable will take you to soar over the city.

Book the Cable Car Tour to Parque Arvi

4- The Botanical Gardens-

Entry is free to visit the Botanical Gardens. You will find a butterfly garden, a cactus garden, and orchids. Another spot to enjoy gardens and a french castle is El Castillo Museo y Jardines. 

5- Plazas-

The best plazas to visit are Parque Berrio and Plaza Botero. You will find street musicians, a public market, and beautiful gardens.

Have you ever been to any of these places in Colombia? Please comment down below about your experience!

Top of this post: Let’s Compare: Cartagena VS. Medellin in Colombia

Similar Post: 8 Countries to Visit this Winter

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Top 8 Countries to Visit this Winter

Published on by Ashley Bonner1 Comment

Top 8 Countries to Visit this Winter

We recommend going away somewhere warm with a tropical breeze, palm trees, swimming pools, and a turquoise ocean during the cold, snowy winter. However, if you want to spend the Holiday skiing in New York or see the Northern Lights in Iceland or Alaska, it will also be a great experience. Below are the top 8 countries to visit this winter. 

1-Mexico-

Mexico makes for a perfect winter getaway location. The warm weather, beautiful beaches, and things to do in Mexico make it a great place to travel. You can go on a luxury relaxing vacation with unlimited drinks and food or an adventurous one to see places, including the cenotes in Cabo or waterfalls in Puerto Vallarta.

A. Cabo-

Did you know the infamous Cabo San Lucas is a resort city on the southern tip of Baja California Sur? The best things to do in Cabo are to watch the sunset, swim in cenotes, relax at the beaches, sail, snorkel, and go whale watching. You can even ride a camel in Cabo!

B. Cancun-

Cancun is the perfect spot to relax at an all-inclusive hotel. Chichen Itza is one of the seven wonders of the world. It is a 2-hour drive from Cancun if you are up for a road trip. You can do all of the underwater activities in Cancun!

C- Puerto Vallarta-

Puerto Vallarta is home to cobblestone streets at Zona Romantica and beautiful beaches. You can even explore Yelapa Beach and Waterfall on a day trip. There is so much to do! Similar Post: 21 Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta. 

2- Spain-

It is funny how some areas of Spain are not as warm as others, but one thing is for sure, the Canary Islands have nice weather.

The Canary Islands-

The Canary Islands in Spain have sunshine throughout the year. Feel free to relax at beaches, including Lanzarote, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria. You will also find quaint villages to explore and underwater activities to partake in, like scuba diving, windsurfing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, sailing, surfing, and kayaking adventures. The Canary Islands feature volcanos, ash fields, and forests and can serve as a hiker’s paradise! You can even go mountain biking if you want. 

3- Kenya-

We recommend visiting Mombasa in Kenya!

Mombasa-

Enjoy warm weather in Mombasa this holiday season. Kenyans refer to Mombasa as the definition of happiness. The coastal town has incredible scenery, beautiful beaches, historical sites, and exotic wildlife. 

4- Thailand-

Thailand is a dream location for everyone to see at least once in their life! This destination is at the top of my bucket list. All year round is a pleasant time to visit. Thailand is a cheap place to travel to, as for only $1.00 you can have delicious Pad Thai, and for $5.00 you can sleep in a hostel. Aside from the perfect climate, the nature surrounding the area is beautiful. You’ll find dense jungles, rice fields, crystal-clear beaches, whirling rivers, and incredible wildlife.

Phuket-

Phuket is home to golden beaches and adventurous watersports to try. Read 6 reasons to visit Thailand for inspiration.

5- Colombia-

Medellin-

Medellin has perfect weather year-round. The vibrant city has a lot to offer, home to incredible parks, museums, and plazas. One of the best things to do is go on a day trip to Guatape, a magical town only two hours away. 

6- Antigua-

Antigua is a PERFECT Caribbean adventure to be had this winter. There is SO much to do in Antigua, from swimming with stingrays to sea turtles! Read the top 10 things to do in Antigua and find out the 6 best places to stay to help plan your trip!

7- America

A. Fairbanks, Alaska-

The best spot to see the Northern Lights in America is at Fairbanks in Alaska. 

B. New York-

We recommend spending the holidays in New York City, for the displays will get you in the Christmas spirit, especially at Rockefeller Center. Read the 11 things to do in New York City this Holiday Season!

8- Iceland-

You can see the Northern lights in Iceland and Northern Norway! Read the 10 best things to do in Iceland for inspiration.

Do you have a vacation coming up? We would love to hear more about it! Comment down below where you are heading this winter! 

Top of this post: Top 8 Countries to Visit this Winter