Unexpected South America
Cartagena, Colombia
I don’t receive that many requests for trips to South America and I haven’t quite figured out why.
There are some amazing destinations and bucket list adventures available - think Patagonia, the Galapagos, or Macchu Picchu. But there are also a number of wonderful destinations worth considering if you’ve already “been there, done that '' in some of those other places.
Next time you’re thinking about a trip to the Caribbean…consider going a little further. Or if Europe’s on your mind, skip the jet lag and travel south.
Here are a few of our suggestions to inspire you:
Cartagena, Colombia
Located on the northern side of Colombia, Cartagena is not much further away than popular destinations like Costa Rica or Aruba. And once you’re there, you’ll fall in love with the beautiful and charming old city.
There’s plenty to do in the city itself - learn the history, taste the delicious food on a food tour, and scope out the local artwork on a street art tour. If you like ceviche, you’ve come to the right place!
Stroll the streets and admire the colonial architecture while snacking on an arepa.
And Cartagena’s location on the water means you can easily take a speedboat trip to the beautiful surrounding islands for some R&R or go out on a sunset kayaking cruise to see the city from the water.
The city’s charming vibes extend to its 5-star hotels - we recommend staying at the historic Casa San Agustin or the Sofitel Legend.
The next few months are ideal for traveling to Colombia - you’ll avoid hurricane season and get to enjoy some warm temperatures. And The holidays are a wonderful time to visit Cartagena - I had clients travel there over Christmas last year and they had a fantastic experience. If you’re looking for an alternative to the Caribbean, Colombia is a great option!
Santiago, Chile
It's not just a stopover on the way to Patagonia! Nestled among the peaks of the Andes Mountains, Santiago offers expansive parks and flat streets perfect for leisurely strolls. Its museums showcase diverse treasures, from pre-Columbian art to memories of the military dictatorship. Whether it marks the beginning of a broader Chilean adventure or stands as a destination in itself, Santiago is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Visit Sky Costanera for one of the highest and most breathtaking views in the city. Meander through the scenic Cerro Santa Lucía, where you can admire Fuente Neptuno and Castillo Hidalgo, two remarkable structures nestled within the park.
Explore the lively atmosphere of Plaza de Armas, the city’s historical and cultural heart.
If you enjoy wine, add on a full-day excursion to the vineyards just outside Santiago and experience wine tastings and a three-course lunch.
Opt for a boutique stay at Hotel Magnolia or Luciano K - both offer rooftops where you can enjoy a pisco sour.
Peak season is December through February where you’ll experience larger crowds around Chile. Instead, opt for shoulder season (March to May and September to November) with fewer crowds and nice weather. Springtime brings blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures, while fall is great for wine lovers. Vineyards are decorated with fall foliage, and there are many grape harvest festivals. Fall is also a good time for adventurers to hike, such as on the Mirador de Los Cóndores trail or Cerro Manquehuito.
Montevideo, Uruguay
Montevideo offers ample food, wine, music and visual treats - and is known to have the best quality of life in South America. Seek out Uruguay's highlights at museums, as well as in the vibrant streets of the Ciudad Vieja where points of interest include the Mercado del Puerto, some seven houses of worship including the Sephardic Synagogue, and shady plazas for a quick break. Day or night, the Ciudad Vieja is buzzing with cafés, restaurants and music. Culture takes many forms in Montevideo, from pocket-sized galleries and surprise street performances to the world-class, including ballet, concerts and plays at the historic Teatro Solis.
Take an architectural tour to see the highlights of modern Montevideo and its old quarter, La Ciudad Vieja.
Stop for lunch at the Mercado del Puerto, the most popular place in town to have a traditional Uruguayan lunch of grilled meat.
On Sunday, wander the Tristan Narvaja Flea Market, the best place to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir, or if not, to people watch.
Rest your head at the Sofitel Montevideo or Alma Historica boutique hotel
Similar to Chile, visit during Spring and Fall for great weather and fewer crowds.
Which of these destinations caught your eye? If you’re ready to learn more, connect with us to start designing your South American trip.