Boasting both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, Central America is blessed with incredible dive and snorkel sites. From Belize’s famed Blue Hole to the vibrant and colorful reefs dotted around Costa Rica, there’s something here for every interest and skill set.
The marine life is at another level too. Whale sharks silently move through the waves, sea turtles paddle along next to you and beautifully colored fish surround you as you explore – one visit will never be enough.
A decent dive shop can supply all equipment, but if you have them, bring your mask and snorkel, a lightweight rash vest and reef-friendly sunscreen – and don’t forget your underwater camera. These are our favorite snorkel and scuba spots in Central America.
When is the best time to snorkel and dive in Central America?
Central America is a year-round snorkel and scuba destination, but conditions depend on the country, the season (rainy or dry) and whether you’re on the Pacific or Caribbean coast.
For a more tranquil – and cheaper – experience, avoid the region’s high season from December to April. But if there’s something specific you’re diving to see, you’ll have a fixed window.
The Blue Hole in Belize is an iconic dive site. QArts/Shutterstock
1. Caye Caulker, Belize
In pocket-sized Belize, the Caribbean-sun-drenched Caye Caulker makes the perfect jumping-off point for some of the world’s best diving and snorkeling.
Head south to the iconic Blue Hole Natural Monument at Lighthouse Reef, a marine sinkhole around 122m (400ft) deep and 300m (984ft) wide. Made famous by Jacques Cousteau, its mysterious depths and stalactite-studded caves still draw a crowd.
Or try Turneffe Atoll, a biodiverse mix of mangroves, lagoons and coral reefs, with snorkel and dive sites for all levels. Keep your eyes peeled for the endemic white spotted toadfish.
Getting there: It’s a 45-minute journey by ferry from Belize City.
2. Parque Nacional Coiba, Panama
In the not-so-distant past, Coiba – the American Pacific’s largest island – was home to around 3000 inmates. Today, along with some smaller islands, it’s a UNESCO-protected national marine park, and part of a project with Costa Rica, Colombia, and Ecuador to safeguard key migratory corridors.
Certified divers of all levels can swim with whitetip reef sharks, devil rays, turtles and a host of multicolored fish. You can often spot giant mantas and whale sharks, as well as humpback whales from July to September.
Getting there: To access the park, you’ll need to book through a dive shop, such as the Panama Dive Center in the surf spot of Santa Catalina. It’s a 75-minute boat ride to Isla Coiba.
Panama’s incredibly clear waters give you excellent visibility. Vilainecrevette / Shutterstock
3. Bocas del Toro, Panama
A string of laid-back Caribbean islands and islets, Bocas del Toro is not only a backpacker party hub – it’s also home to some of Panama’s best snorkeling, with gin-clear water and colorful coral.
The protected reefs of Admiral Bay are perfect for snorkeling, and at Hospital Point, beyond the shallows on the northern tip of Isla Solarte, there’s a deep reef wall that’s ideal for night dives.
For a different view, mangrove snorkeling gets you up close to a tangle of algae-covered roots, vibrant sea sponges and juvenile fish darting around their nursery.
Getting there: It’s a 45-minute flight from Panama City to the capital of Bocas, Isla Colón, or around 11 hours by bus and ferry.
Washed by warm water, the backpacker haunt of Utila is a great option for divers on a budget. Matthew Micah Wright/Getty Images
4. Bay Islands, Honduras
Washed by warm, clear water, the backpacker haunt of Utila – the smallest of the three main Bay Islands – is a great budget-friendly scuba destination, with no shortage of dive shops and must-dive sites. And you can spot whale sharks here year-round, whether you’re a beginner or a budding divemaster.
In Roatán, there’s world-class snorkeling just off West Bay’s white-sand beach, while Mary’s Place tempts snorkelers to its shallows to spot eagle rays and sea turtles, and experienced divers to its vertical reef walls.
Getting there: Take a ferry from La Ceiba or an international flight direct to Roatán.
5. Parque Nacional Cahuita, Costa Rica
Cahuita National Park’s underwater playground is home to more than 120 species of evocatively named fish – jewel fish, frogfish, butterflyfish – flitting around 35 types of equally exotic coral, such as elkhorn, brain and leather – and that’s not forgetting the lobsters, urchins and moray eels.
Its pristine waters have been awarded Costa Rica’s Ecological Blue Flag, and you can get up close to loggerhead, leatherback and hawksbill turtles during nesting season from March to October.
Getting there: The park is around 47km (29 miles) south of Puerto Limón; use Puerto Viejo or Cahuita as a base.
6. Isla del Coco, Costa Rica
Jurassic Park meets Jacques Cousteau at the volcanic Cocos Island, some 550km (341 miles) off Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline. The French oceanographer dubbed this UNESCO World Heritage Site the most beautiful island in the world, and it also served as inspiration for the 1993 dinosaur film’s fictitious Isla Nublar.
This underwater spectacle is for experienced divers only, and it’s expensive to get there. But you’ll be rewarded by schools of hammerhead sharks (at their peak between June and October) and countless whitetip sharks, rays and whale sharks.
Getting there: Book an eight-to-ten-day live-aboard trip from the port city of Puntarenas, with companies such as Aggressor Adventures and Undersea Hunter.
The seas surrounding Nicaragua’s Little Corn Island are a favorite hangout of reef sharks, rays, barracuda and more. Martin Strmiska/Getty Images
7. Little Corn Island, Nicaragua
Most of Little Corn’s 20 or so budget-friendly dive sites are a short boat trip from its powder-soft beaches. Reefs are generally shallow – no wall dives here – but forests of elkhorn and staghorn coral teem with kaleidoscopic fish.
For more experienced divers, the Tarpon Channel is the place to spot hammerhead sharks, and Blowing Rock, around 60 minutes away, will blow your mind. This spiky rock pinnacle emerging from the sea is a favorite hangout of reef sharks, rays, barracuda and more.
Getting there: Fly from Managua to Big Corn Island and take the twice-daily, 30-minute public boat to Little Corn.
Diving at Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán reveals otherworldly lava formations, sunken villages, petrified trees and hydrothermal vents. Justin Foulkes/Lonely Planet
8. Lago de Atitlán, Guatemala
Watched over by three active volcanoes, shimmering Lake Atitlán makes an unusual dive destination. But what Central America’s deepest lake – it reaches depths of 340m (1115ft) – lacks in technicolor fish, it makes up for with otherworldly lava formations, sunken villages, petrified trees and hydrothermal vents.
ATI Divers in Santa Cruz La Laguna is the lake’s long-standing dive shop. As well as fun dives and PADI certifications, they offer a one-day Altitude Specialty Course.
Getting there: Take the chicken or shuttle bus from Guatemala City or Antigua to Panajachel, then ride 10 minutes on a public boat to Santa Cruz.
Cerulean waves crash into limestone cliffs and plump koalas doze in ghostly white gum trees on the wild southwestern coast of Victoria, a rugged natural wilderness within easy reach of Melbourne.
This windswept stretch of the Australian coastline is best known as the home of the Great Ocean Road. One of Australia’s most iconic road trips, the scenic 243 km (151 mile) coastal route weaves through a patchwork of national parks and kangaroo-dotted farmlands towards the surreal limestone stacks known as the Twelve Apostles.
However, that’s not the only way to soak up the sublime views: the region is also home to the Great Ocean Walk (GOW), a 110km (68-mile) one-way hiking trail that links Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles.
Despite its close proximity to the Great Ocean Road in some sections, the GOW is a wonderfully wild walk that feels further removed from civilization (and traffic on the driving route) than it actually is. Hugging the coastline more closely than the Great Ocean Road, the GOW rewards hikers with more dramatic vistas and a deeper immersion into the region’s beauty.
The good news is that you don’t need to have camping gear or a full week set aside to experience it. While the GOW takes six to eight days in its entirety, it’s possible to tackle much shorter sections, making it accessible to those with limited time, fitness or mobility. With the help of a hire car and local shuttle services that cater to hikers, it’s even possible to get a GOW fix and be back in Melbourne in time for dinner.
Here’s our pick of the best day, and half-day, hikes along the Great Ocean Road from east to west.
Best for an easy ramble 4.4km/2.7 miles, 2 hours, easy to moderate
This relatively gentle hike offers a great taste of the Great Ocean Walk for travelers staying in Apollo Bay, where the GOW officially begins. There are three beach walking sections on this trail ending at the Shelly Beach picnic area, tucked up in the coastal forest behind the beach, making it essential to embark at low tide. If conditions allow, there are several additional spots you can opt to walk along the sand and rock platforms instead of sticking to the main trail tracing low cliffs. Swimming is possible in calm conditions.
How to do it: If you don’t have time or energy to do the walk both ways, leave your car at Shelly Beach picnic area and arrange for a shuttle to Marengo (3km/1.9 miles from Apollo Bay), where you’ll begin your walk. If you don’t have a vehicle, shuttles can be arranged at either end.
Best for wild swims and history 11km/6.8 miles, 3-4 hours, moderate
This writer’s favorite section of the GOW takes you deep (or at least it feels like it) into the lush coastal forest of Great Otway National Park before popping out onto the beach at pretty Parker Inlet – a perfect spot for a swim. After crossing the inlet and rounding Point Franklin, the trail hugs the cliffs, offering stirring Southern Ocean views en route to Cape Otway, with another swimming option at Crayfish Bay.
Aim to arrive at Cape Otway well before 4pm to explore the Lightstation precinct (AU$10/adult), where you can learn the stories of the Cape and visit heritage buildings including the striking 1848 lighthouse once known to seafarers as the “Beacon of Hope”.
How to do it: If you don’t have a car (or two) to leave at either end of this trail (Blanket Bay is 36km/22 miles from Apollo Bay), prebook a shuttle drop-off/pick-up.
Hire a car and check out the best road trips from Melbourne
3. Cape Otway to Aire River
Best for chasing waterfalls 9.8km/6 miles, 3-4 hours, moderate to difficult
The power of the Southern Ocean comes into dramatic focus when this trail opens up on the eroded cliff tops after about 2km (1.2 miles). If the sea is calm and the tide is low, you can opt to drop down to sea level and walk along the soft (read: challenging) sand of Station Beach for 2km (1.2 miles) before rejoining the main trail. There’s also an optional 2km (1.2-mile) return detour to Rainbow Falls, where colorful algae blooms along the vertical path of a spring-fed waterfall. Don’t miss the 19th-century Lightstation cemetery at the beginning of the trail.
How to do it: Prebook a shuttle drop-off/pick-up, or leave a car at either end of the trail. Cape Otway is 27km/16.8 miles from Apollo Bay.
Best for koala spotting 6.3km/4 miles, 2 hours, moderate
It’s possible to spot koalas and other native wildlife including wallabies, kangaroos and echidnas along the entire GOW, but sightings of Australia’s most iconic marsupial are particularly common on this leg, which begins with a superb lookout towards the cliffs of Rotten Point. The trail winds along cliffs and through prime koala habitat (don’t forget to look up!) before dropping down onto the golden sands of Johanna Beach for the final 2km (1.2 miles), which can feel like double that length in the soft sand. Powerful waves and strong currents make swimming risky – the safest spot is generally in front of the vehicle-accessible Johanna Beach GOW campground.
How to do it: If you don’t have a car (or two) to leave at either end of this trail (Castle Cove is 33km/20.5 miles from Apollo Bay), prebook a shuttle drop-off/pick-up.
Save this guide to the best national parks in Australia
5. Wreck Beach
Best for maritime relics 2km/1.25 miles, one hour, moderate
Nearly 700 vessels are thought to be submerged along the 130km (81 miles) stretch of coastline between Cape Otway and Port Fairy, also known as the Shipwreck Coast. This short walk (low tide only) takes you down 350 steps to the rocky beach where the rusting anchors of the Marie Gabrielle (wrecked in 1869) and the Fiji (wrecked in 1891) are haunting reminders of how treacherous the Southern Ocean can be. If conditions permit, you can make this walk a circuit by scrambling over the rocks past the Fiji anchor and connecting with the GOW trail for the return walk to the car park. Leave your swimwear behind – this rocky beach isn’t ideal for a dip.
How to do it: Drive to Wreck Beach car park or book a return shuttle to this remote area, 38km (23.6 miles) from Port Campbell, the closest town to the end of the GOW.
Best for admiring the Twelve Apostles 7km/4.3 miles, 2 hours, easy to moderate
It won’t be long before you get your first glimpse of the Twelve Apostles on this gently undulating, exposed clifftop trail. Set off as early as possible to beat the heat, and the day-tripper crowds from Melbourne. While only seven of these golden limestone pillars can be seen rising from the coastal shallows today, it’s an awesome sight that gets better as you hike closer. A viewpoint just east of Gibson Steps makes for a fine place to pause for a snack. Then take a short detour down the steps to savor the sea-level views before continuing onto the main Twelve Apostles viewing platforms (including the striking new Saddle Lookout) at the end of this trail – the terminus of the GOW.
How to do it: Base yourself in Port Campbell and drive or book a shuttle to the trailhead near Princetown (17km/10.6 miles from Port Campbell). It’s 11km (6.8 miles) to Port Campbell from the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre.
Looking for something under-the-radar to see in Australia? Read on for some local favourites
7. Loch Ard Gorge Walks
Best for epic and accessible views 5.5km/3.4 miles, 2 hours, easy
It’s not technically part of the GOW (which officially ends 3km/1.9 miles east at the Twelve Apostles), but if time is tight or you have limited mobility, this trio of interconnecting, wheelchair-accessible trails in Port Campbell National Park takes you to some of coastal Victoria’s most memorable lookouts. The Geology Walk (900m/0.6 miles return) leads to the Razorback, a jagged hulk of limestone rivaling the Twelve Apostles. The Shipwreck Walk (1.4km/0.8 miles return) takes you along the rim of the main gorge, where the only two survivors of the Loch Ard shipwreck in 1878 dragged themselves onto its beach (not currently accessible); the cemetery where some of their shipmates were buried; and a lookout to Mutton Bird Island, where the Loch Ard met its fate. Hear the roar of the water surging into Thunder Cave on the Edge Walk (3.2km/2 miles return), which takes you further along the cliffs.
How to do it: Loch Ard Gorge car park is 8km (5 miles) from Port Campbell; self-drive or get a taxi.
Tips for day hiking on the Great Ocean Walk
The V/Line bus runs from Melbourne to Apollo Bay daily, but local public transport is infrequent and taxis are in short supply; book shuttles in advance.
If you’re hiring a car, ensure you can take it on unsealed roads, although a 4WD is not essential.
All trails with unavoidable beach sections should be undertaken at low tide.
Expect patchy mobile (cell) service on all trails.
The GOW is remote – check the weather forecast before you go, but be prepared for all conditions.
Bring plenty of drinking water and snacks; the only shop/cafe on the GOW is at the Cape Otway Lightstation.
All one-way trails in this article can be completed as out-and-back hikes in a day.
All three local snake species are venomous. Give these shy creatures space to move off on their own if you encounter one basking on the trail.
The writer traveled as a guest of Adventures in Good Company, which includes day hikes on the Great Ocean Walk, operated by AusWalk, on its Adventures Down Under tour. Lonely Planet writers do not accept freebies for positive coverage.
Road trips in Montana really take you places. Massive mountains, glacier lakes and wild rivers unfurl outside the window on the state’s wide-open roads, each diving into a state of exploration and pure natural wonder. And with plenty of Western scenery and outstretched landscapes along the way, road-tripping across Montana proves it’s all about the journey between destinations.
Several roadside vistas encourage pulling off the designated route, and even more small towns, campgrounds and unique Montana adventures facilitate longer layovers. Come as you are for a Montana road trip, where every type of vehicle can access the atlas of Scenic Byways and All-American Roads across the state.
Follow Going-to-the-Sun Road for some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Getty Images/iStockphoto
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park
Best introduction to Montana driving
Apgar Village – St. Mary Lake; 50 miles
Breathless words like “oh my gosh” and “holy moly” often accompany any drive on the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road, the only route spanning the width of Glacier National Park in northwest Montana. Narrow shoulders, winding curves and rushing waterfalls beneath the road add an adventurous nature to the drive, but the mythical mountains rising into the sky will make you glad you called shotgun.
Drivers start heading to the sun at either Apgar Village near Lake McDonald or St. Mary Lake on the park’s east and west sides. The whole route could take 90 minutes without stopping, but you’ll want to budget all day to visit several roadside attractions, including Logan Pass Visitor Center – at an elevation of 6646ft, this is the highest point in the park accessible by vehicle.
Planning Tip: The Going-to-the-Sun Road is open seasonally, typically fully accessible between early June through September. A new Vehicle Reservation System coincides roughly with the same span, requiring personal vehicle permits. The fare-free GTSR Shuttle offers a valuable option if you can’t get a permit.
2. Beartooth Highway
Best way to get to or from Yellowstone National Park
Red Lodge – Cooke City; 68 miles
Eyepopping views of big mountains and glacier-carved valleys line every mile of the Beartooth Highway in southern Montana. This All-American Road dips into Wyoming on its journey from Red Lodge to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, topping out at Beartooth Pass (10,947ft) and showcasing Montana’s tallest peaks – the startling Beartooth Mountains.
Custer Gallatin National Forest surrounds the entire drive, including parking lot access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Alongside a thriving habitat for bears, moose and elk, these adventure playgrounds offer a lifetime of hiking trails and connections with nature. This adventure smorgasbord includes a unique chance to hit the slopes at Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area.
Planning Tip: Time your adventures right; the roadway is only open between Memorial Day (early May) and October 15th. No matter the time of year, bring warm clothes for the colder temperatures and exposure along the highway’s high elevation.
3. Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Highway
Best alternative route for driving between Yellowstone and Glacier
Drummond – Anaconda ; 64 miles
The Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Highway, also known as the Anaconda-Pintler Scenic Route, is a must-do diversion from Interstate 90 between Butte and Missoula. It’s also an excellent side adventure for those traveling between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park, located approximately halfway along the route between these much more crowded destinations.
The speed limit is slower on the 64-mile two-lane scenic highway, but what really slows down traffic are the historic towns and outdoor recreation opportunities lining the route. Two quintessential pullovers include Anaconda and Phillipsburg, offering similar historic aesthetics but completely different ways to experience the past.
Mine for Montana Sapphires in Phillipsburg and enjoy black slag bunkers at Old Works Golf Course in Anaconda, always in sight of the historic Anaconda Smelter Stack. Both towns have hotels and lodging, although Fairmont Hot Springs Resort near Anaconda offers the most relaxing stay. Head to the hard-to-miss Georgetown Lake about halfway along the route for outdoor adventures.
Take the Seeley-Swan Scenic Byway to see some of western Montana’s most beautiful landscapes. Cavan Images RF / Getty Images
4. Seeley-Swan Scenic Byway (Highway 83)
Best road trip into lake country
Clearwater – Swan Lake; 84 miles
If you enjoy massive mountains reflecting off glass-smooth natural lakes, head for the Seeley-Swan Valley in western Montana. Mission Mountains and the Swan Range border Highway 83, spanning the length of this approximately 90-mile corridor. This magnet for summer travel is also home to a refreshing chain of over two dozen mountain lakes along the Clearwater River.
Seeley Lake, near the southern end of Highway 83, is the largest in the chain of lakes, complete with campgrounds, private resorts, and stocked rainbow trout. Holland Lake is another stunning lakeshore about halfway up the highway, where Holland Falls National Recreation Trail delivers hikers to a misty gravity display. And Swan Lake borders eight miles of the highway at its northern end, also famous for its fishing and camping opportunities.
Planning Tip: Budget 2-3 days for a solid trip through the Seeley-Swan Valley, booking campsites at places like Lake Alva or Lindbergh Lake or accommodations at the Holland Lake Lodge.
5. Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway
Best road trip for uncovering gems of the Treasure State
Wise River – Polaris; 45 miles
The seemingly short 45-mile Pioneer Scenic Byway in southwest Montana facilitates days upon days of authentic Montana experiences. The route follows the entire frontage of the Pioneer Mountain Range through Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest, offering a relatively mellow and straightforward drive where the term “Big Sky Country” really comes to mind.
Multiple days of outdoor recreation line the route, including the Big Hole River at its northern terminus – one of Montana’s top blue-ribbon waterways for fly fishing. National forest campgrounds also line the way, including Price Creek, the largest with 28 sites for tents or RVs. This campground is the closest to Crystal Park, a must-visit, with 30 acres open to harvesting quartz crystals buried in the ground.
Planning Tip: Pioneer Scenic Highway is open between May 15th and December 1st. It transforms into one of the state’s most popular snowmobile trails for the rest of the year.
6. A Journey through Paradise (Valley)
Best road trip for historic hot springs
Livingston-Gardiner; 54 miles
The Yellowstone River carves through Paradise Valley on either side of the Absaroka and Gallatin Mountains in southern Montana. This idyllic riparian landscape spans only 40 miles, but with Livingston and Yellowstone National Park near its northern and southern termini, there’s enough to fill seven-plus days of exploring Paradise Valley and its river outlets.
Time spent in Livingston or Yellowstone can easily occupy your whole vacation, but budget some time to enjoy the drive between. The best way to soak in the stunning landscape is an overnight stay at the historic Chico Hot Springs, established in 1900 and still providing rustic rooms, a large community pool and a historic dining room for a romantic night to remember.
Detour: Highway 89 is the main route through Paradise Valley and a famous access road for Yellowstone National Park. The less-busy East River Road is a recommended alternative with a slower speed limit but better driving experience.
Take a break from diving and jump into the refreshing waters of Flathead Lake. Jordan Siemens / Getty Images
7. ZooTown to Whitefish through the Flathead Valley – Highway 93
Best route for an unplanned adventure
Missoula-Whitefish; 138 miles
The route from Missoula to Whitefish will make you want to move to Montana forever. It passes through the Rattlesnake Mountains immediately north of Missoula before crossing into the Flathead Reservation, home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, who manage the southern half of Flathead Lake, an unmissable point of attraction along the route.
Flathead Lake, the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous United States, has two roads navigating either side of its expansive shoreline. Highway 93 follows the western shore, passing through charming small towns like Polson and Big Arm, where visitors find hotels, boat rentals, and community events like the Flathead Cherry Festival on the last weekend in July.
Approximately 10 miles north of Flathead Lake is Kalispell, a great base camp for exploring the Flathead Valley with the most available hotels, restaurants, and community events. And 15 miles further north is the year-round mountain town of Whitefish, made famous by its Amtrak stop, outdoor recreation, and world-class skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Forming a delightful trio lying just off the coast of South America, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao (affectionately known as the ABC Islands) appeal to sun-seeking travelers from all over the world.
At first glance, there doesn’t seem to be much to differentiate these three Dutch-affiliated islands. Yet while they do share some elements of culture and geography (and sun!), each one has its own personality, and distinct opportunities to suit different travelers’ interests.
Whether you’re into underwater adventures, lazing on the beach or exploring Caribbean culture, read on to find out which one of the three is the right match for you.
Bonaire’s world-class reefs lie just off the island’s shores, which means you can just wade in to take in underwater wonders. Getty Images
Bonaire is best for scuba diving and underwater exploration
While both Aruba and Curaçao offer diving and snorkeling experiences, the tiny island of Bonaire is well known throughout the global diving community for its world-class reef system, considered one of the healthiest in the Caribbean.
And while that superlative is enough to justify booking a ticket, there’s another bonus: the diving here is also some of the most accessible, with spectacular sites sitting only a few meters offshore.
Bonaire is ringed by its National Marine Park, 6700 hectares (16,550 acres) of protected waters featuring 85 separate dive sites, many of them accessible simply by walking into the water. These sites are marked by yellow stones placed along the main roads that trace the circumference of the island – and each one yields a unique underwater experience.
Curaçao has the edge on culture
The largest of the three islands and the only one that has major industries besides tourism, Curaçao acts as the de facto art-and-culture center of the ABC Islands. Here, you’ll find art and history museums, galleries, music venues and a bustling capital city that doubles as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you’re interested in history, the Kura Hulanda Museum tells the important but tragic story of the history of enslaved people in Curaçao and the Caribbean – a must-see to understand the island’s past and present.
Art lovers can spend a whole afternoon at Landhuis Bloemhof, a contemporary-art museum featuring sculptures, installations and even an entire gallery made out of thorns. Those interested in culture outside of museums shouldn’t miss the restaurants and bars of Pietermaai, or the expansive street art in Otrobanda.
Aruba’s balmy trade winds – which have shaped the island’s famously gnarled Fofoti trees – make for pleasant weather all year long. Federico Cabello/Getty Images
Aruba has the most pleasant weather
While all three islands are sunny places largely out of the path of Caribbean hurricanes, Aruba wins the award for best weather thanks to the balmy trade winds that constantly sweep through.
These winds have shaped the island’s geology and even its flora – just look at those wind-bent Fofoti trees – and have a lovely cooling effect, relieving you from the hot sun that beats down the vast majority of the year.
That said, the sun’s rays are intense even with the cool breeze, so always layer on the SPF. Yet as the sun starts to set and that breeze flutters across the island, you really do see why it’s called paradise.
Aruba and Bonaire both have fantastic water sports
It’s tough to pick a winner for this one, so we are calling a tie: both Aruba and Bonaire are known for their kitesurfing, windsurfing and diving scenes. Which means adrenaline seekers will be well positioned for a great trip on either island.
Aruba hosts the Hi-Winds Caribbean Championship every year, which features kitesurfing, windsurfing, paddle-boarding, kitefoiling and mountain-biking categories, and draws spectators from around the world.
Bonaire has a huge windsurfing scene at Sorobon on Lac Bay and kitesurfing on its southwestern shore, and plays host to an annual international sailing regatta.
With options for every type of sunbather, Curaçao’s sandy beaches give it the edge. Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock
Curaçao has the the best beaches
All three islands are great destinations for anyone in need of a dose of vitamin D – yet both Aruba and Bonaire’s coastlines are largely rocky.
If you want a plethora of picturesque sandy beaches to choose from, Curaçao is your destination: the island features a series of pristine beaches hemmed in by dramatic limestone and coral stone cliffs, each one offering activities for any type of traveler.
Families will love the gorgeous crescent known as Grote Knip and won’t be left wanting for amenities, while those looking for a little more peace and quiet will love Klein Knip and Playa Lagun.
Adrenaline seekers will enjoy the cliff jumping at Playa Forti, while those looking for a little bit of luxury will find themselves right at home at the beach clubs of Jan Thiel and Papagayo.
Aruba has a superior party scene
Looking to blow off some steam, island-style? Aruba’s lively resort area offers option after option for beachside revelry – stylish lounges, energetic clubs, piano bars, casinos…you name it.
Most venues can be found along the coastline in Oranjestad or slightly further north in Palm Beach. This whole area buzzes throughout the day – and come nightfall, it takes on a festive, genial vibe.
Honorable mention for this category goes to Curaçao. The nightlife options in Willemstad have a local vibe and are plenty of fun.
With no large resorts and intriguing natural attractions like Washington Slagbaai National Park, Bonaire has the edge if you want to escape the crowds. Shutterstock
Bonaire lets you get off the beaten track
The outlier when it comes to tourist traffic, humble Bonaire will surprise and delight those willing to make the extra effort to hop over to its rocky shores.
While the island is no secret in diving and snorkeling circles, it remains a quiet, friendly place to visit, as big resorts and mass tourism have (happily) yet to take over any part of the island.
Kralendijk and Rincón offer small-town vibes. And don’t be surprised if you get whisked into an impromptu sightseeing tour with a local: Bonarians are proud of their nature and culture, and it shows in their hospitality and their collective land stewardship.
Blanketed in mountains and rainforest and lashed by the Roaring 40s winds, Tasmania is a wild place with wild ways. Australia’s island state could not have been better designed for lovers of adventure. The country’s most famous hiking trails are here, along with its most dramatic peaks. Rivers pour through forests thick with moss and some of the planet’s tallest trees. It’s an environment that’s created one of the world’s greatest rafting trips and a similarly world-class collection of mountain bike trail networks has also emerged in the last decade. It’s brought this island in the Southern Ocean to the attention of many who crave a shot of adrenalin – be it a week in the wilds or a half-day adventure, with plentiful activities accessible to families and those with limited mobility.
Here’s our pick of Tasmania’s top outdoor adventures.
1. Rafting the Franklin River
Best for an epic journey
Declared the world’s greatest rafting trip by Outside magazine, the Franklin River is a fast and furious waterway, crashing for 125km through steep gorges, with turbulent stories to match. The fight to save this wilderness river from dams in the early 1980s was the most famous environmental story (and a rare conservation success) in Australia’s history, while the discovery of Aboriginal cultural remains in a cave on the river’s banks helped sealed the deal on Tasmania’s vast Wilderness World Heritage listing.
Guided rafting trips, such as those with outfitters Water by Nature Tasmania and Tasmanian Expeditions, put in at Collingwood River and quickly meet the Franklin, which stutters between flat floats and unruly rapids. The deep and mystical Great Ravine, in particular, is a day-long epic of rapids. Expect to be on the river for at least seven days.
A short ferry ride away, Maria Island is a wildlife wonderland where pademelons frolic. Tom Wayman/Shutterstock
2. Wildlife on Maria Island
Best for wildlife, families and wheelchair accessibility
Tasmania’s largest island national park is dotted with the relics of its convict past, but the wildest things here are its critters. In the 1960s, a number of threatened species were introduced to the mountainous island, just a 30-minute ferry ride from the east coast town of Triabunna, where they thrived. Step off the ferry today and you’re quickly in the company of wombats – dozens of them – nibbling the lawns around the old penitentiary. Forester kangaroos, wallabies and colorful Cape Barren geese graze beside them. If your luck is in, this is also the surest place in the world to spot a beloved Tasmanian devil in the wild. Devils were introduced to the island in 2012 as an insurance population against the cancer that is threatening the species’ survival.
The Maria Island ferry is wheelchair accessible, with the area around Darlington (the convict penitentiary that operated in the 1840s) also manageable for most.
3. Kayaking for fish and chips
Best for families
Paddle up an appetite on a half-day kayaking tour on Hobart’s River Derwent estuary. Rounding the shores of the historic inner-city suburb of Battery Point, this tour with Roaring 40s Kayaking paddles into Hobart’s central docks, enjoying one of the capital’s best views, with 1271m kunanyi/Mt Wellington towering over Hobart’s city-center buildings. In Constitution Dock – home base to finishers in the famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race in the days after Christmas – kayakers raft up, collecting a feed of fish and chips from a dockside fish punt, which is eaten afloat before exiting the docks and returning around Battery Point.
Improve your MBT skills on the Axehead Trail at the Derby mountain bike park. Shutterstock
4. Mountain biking in Derby
Best for adrenalin
With more than 125km of flowing trails etched through the bush and across the surrounding mountains, the northeast town of Derby is the poster child of Australian mountain biking. Trails in the Blue Derby network dip through rainforest, squeeze into an old mining tunnel and lap a lake at the town’s edge, with plenty to please all levels of mountain biking abilities. There are rentals and trail shuttles aplenty from the likes of Vertigo MTB and Evolution Biking in the mountain-bike-mad town, and you can even grab a restorative sauna on a pontoon atop the town lake at the riding day’s end.
5. Boating around Tasman Peninsula
Best for coastal scenery
Spot wildlife large and small as you skim beneath Australia’s tallest sea cliffs on a Pennicott Wilderness Journeys boat cruise along the edge of the Tasman Peninsula in the state’s southeast. There are marine animals aplenty – dolphins riding the bow wave, a colony of seals, fin-slapping humpback whales – along with coastal caves, 300m high cliffs and legendary sea stacks such as the Totem Pole, which is famed among rock climbers across the world. The three-hour cruises set out from the former convict penitentiary at Port Arthur. Waterproof clothing is provided, but bring something warm.
Due to their size, the boats aren’t wheelchair accessible, but are accessible for people with mobility restrictions.
6. Caving at Mole Creek
Best for a half-day adventure
The northwest town of Mole Creek seems well named, with the surrounding Mole Creek Karst National Park punctured by more than 3000 caves. Park rangers run leisurely guided tours of two of these caves – Marakoopa and King Solomons – but things get more untamed on spelunking tours with Wild Cave Tours. Among the many possibilities are the waterfall-filled chambers of the labyrinthine Honeycomb Cave and the elegant Sassafras Cave where still pools reflect a glow-worm-covered ceiling. Book a half-day tour to explore one cave, or a full day underground for a pair.
A boardwalk section of the Overland Track, one of Australia’s most popular multi-day hikes. Catherine Sutherland for Lonely Planet
7. Hiking the Overland Track
Best for a multi-day hike
Weaving between some of Tasmania’s highest and most dramatic mountains, the 65km Overland Track is arguably Australia’s most famous hike. Setting out in sight of craggy Cradle Mountain – one of Tasmania’s emblematic natural scenes – the hike threads through valleys below Mt Ossa (Tasmania’s tallest peak at 1617m), passing a string of alpine lakes and waterfalls to Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest lake. Public hiker huts (with campsites) neatly divide the track into six sections. In the hiking season (October through May), the track can only be walked north to south and advance bookings are required, with numbers limited to 34 hikers setting out each day. Bookings for the season open on 1 July.
8. Sledding the Mersey River
Best for families
Think of it as white-water rafting for one – piloting an air-mattress-like “sled” down the rapids of northern Tasmania’s Mersey River. Running close to the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, near the dairy-farming town of Meander, the river flows in a series of grade I and II rapids, providing a fun but not frightening float on trips operated by Meander Wilderness Experiences. On these sleds you are your own master, steering and paddling them into rapids and then holding on for the bumpy ride. Flat stretches of river between rapids provide plenty of chance to roll over, lie back and let the sled glide gently on.
Experience the Bay of Fires from a First Nations’ perspective on a guided walk. zetter/Getty Images
9. Hiking the wukalina Walk
Best for cultural immersion
With its blue seas, white sands and granite boulders smothered in orange lichen, the Bay of Fires is arguably the most beautiful and colorful section of coastline in Tasmania. Hiking its shores on the guided four-day wukalina Walk is a step into this beauty, overlaid with the living culture of the palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) people. Owned and guided by the Tasmanian Aboriginal community, the walk is a glimpse into bush tucker, middens (accumulations of shells from many generations of Aboriginal meals) and ancient stories as guests hike south along the dazzling beaches of Mt William National Park. The first two nights are spent in a purpose-built camp, where the design of the sleeping pods is inspired by traditional palawa shelters, with the final night in lighthouse keeper cottages at larapuna/Eddystone Point.
10. Canyoning at Cradle Mountain
Best for adrenalin
Look down instead of up at Cradle Mountain and you might notice Dove Canyon, a geological paper cut in the alpine landscape. From November to April, Cradle Mountain Canyons runs canyoning trips that squeeze through the narrow fissure – abseiling, wading, swimming and scrambling to traverse its complicated course. Family-friendly trips run through the Lost World upstream, while the Dove Canyon trip will have you leaping off 6m-high ledges into deep pools, and gulping down breaths before you funnel into the turbulent Laundry Chute rock slide.
A rocky, remote, formerly uninhabited island located off the coast of western Africa that belongs to Portugal, Madeira seems to relish in the extreme. Home to hardly a flat patch of land, otherworldly black pebble beaches and high-altitude trails (even the local wine is a result of challenging conditions), there’s little that’s typical or ho-hum about Madeira.
It’s a lot to take in, and so to help you navigate this world, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best things to do on Madeira.
Due to the rugged terrain, cable cars in Madeira are a much-needed mode of transport for locals. Cristian M Balate/Shutterstock
1. Ride a cable car
Madeira’s rugged terrain has led to some of the world’s most astonishing infrastructure. It’s thought that the island is home to more than 150 tunnels, and even the airport runway is essentially a bridge. But one of the most unique ways to get around Madeira is via cable cars, known locally as teleféricos.
Originally, cable cars served as a way to shift goods from some of Madeira’s more isolated coastal communities inland. Today, they serve mainly to shift tourists. There are seven cable cars on Madeira, and one of the more dramatic is the Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz in Porto Moniz, said to be the steepest in Europe. The Teleférico Rocha do Navio in the north of the island, being renovated at press time, packs some utterly astounding views of the Rocha do Navio Nature Reserve. And the cable car at Praia de Garajau is an easily accessible option that escorts visitors to a handsome black pebble beach.
2. Eat espetada
Madeira’s signature dish is espetada, chunks of beef that have been seasoned with coarse salt, garlic and crushed bay leaves, skewered (traditionally on bay leaf branches) and grilled over coals. The centerpiece is absolutely delicious, but we also love the sides: milho frito, deep-fried cubes of polenta and bolo de caco, a type of flatbread that’s slathered with garlic butter. To serve, the espetadas are suspended on nifty devices, and pros know to position their bolo de caco below the hanging skewer so as not to lose out on any of those delicious dripping juices.
Madeira’s most famous espetada restaurants are located in and around the town of Câmara de Lobos. Viola is our favorite, and serves local beef on bay leaf skewers, as well as vinho seco, a tasty locally-made wine. O Polar is inexpensive and casual, while Santo António is probably the most upscale-feeling option.
Planning tip: If you’re based in Funchal, Câmara de Lobos is 10km away – an easy taxi ride.
A levada is an open canal or irrigation channel very specific to the island of Madeira. Many of them can be accessed via hiking trails. Iñigo Fdz de Pinedo/Getty Images
3. Hike a levada or vereda
Centuries ago, locals on Madeira needed a way to shift water from the fecund northern half of the island to the arid southern half. To do so, they built a series of aqueducts called levadas, and today there is an estimated 2500km of canals across the island. For maintenance purposes, the levadas are paralleled by walking paths, many of which have become destinations in their own right. Every day, hundreds of visitors and locals hike the levada paths, many of which pass through stunning forests and amazing vistas alike. Classic levada hikes include Levada do Furado (PR 10), which passes through a UNESCO-protected Laurisilva forest, or Levada do Risco (PR 6.1), which leads to various waterfalls.
The island is also home to more general trails, known as veredas, some of which pass through even more rugged territory. Vereda do Arieiro (PR 1) literally reaches cloud level and is thought to have some of Madeira’s most impressive views, while Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço skirts the coast – a rarity in this rugged landscape.
Planning tip: Madeira’s mild climate means that levadas and veredas can be tackled at just about any time of year.
4. Taste Madeira wine
Around 500 years ago, Portuguese explorers found that fortifying (that is, adding additional alcohol to stop the fermentation process) Madeira’s wine and exposing barrels of it to hot conditions on long boat journeys actually made it taste better (not to mention more shelf stable), and Madeira wine was invented.
Although we may think of Madeira wine as sweet or dessert wine, in terms of sweetness, it runs the gamut, with some options at the relatively dry end of the spectrum. All of the island’s seven houses offer tastings, which also typically offer a tour of the facilities – often in incredibly atmospheric centuries-old cellars. Blandy’s, with cellars in the middle of Funchal, is the most accessible, while we’re huge fans of the brilliantly balanced (that is, more acidic-leaning) wines made by Barbeito, northwest of Câmara de Lobos.
Left: Porto Moniz is a natural rock pool and public bath that pulls in water from the Atlantic Ocean. Shutterstock Right: The rook pools provide sheltered swims from the Atlantic waves. Jurek Adamski/Shutterstock
5. Swim in a natural pool
Millenia ago, molten lava flowing into the Atlantic resulted in formations that today conveniently function as self-contained swimming spots. Some of these piscinas naturais, as they’re known on the island, retain this natural feel while others are supplemented with man-made infrastructure.
The most famous – and most built out – are the natural pools at Porto Moniz, on the island’s northwestern corner. For something more rugged, head to the pools at Seixal, also located on the island’s northern coast.
6. Take in contemporary art and fantastical gardens at Monte Palace Tropical Gardens
In 1987, controversial Portuguese millionaire and native of Madeira José Berardo took over a former hotel and its grounds and turned it into one of the country’s most delightful contemporary art museums.
Located north of Funchal, and most conveniently reached via cable car, Monte Palace spans 70,000 sq meters on a sloping, jungly hillside. A handful of structures house works by domestic names such as Joana Vasconcelos but also international artists such as Willem de Kooning. These are quite possibly outshone by the grounds, which are a fantasy of fountains, themed gardens, tropical greenery and flowers, and Portugal’s history told in the form of hand-painted tiles.
Detour: One way to descend from Monte is via wicker sleds piloted by drivers, a tradition that dates back more than a century.
Porto Santo’s beach is considered one of the best in Europe. Shutterstock
7. Take a trip to Porto Santo
Madeira is part of an archipelago, the only other inhabited island of which is Porto Santo. Reached by a 2.5-hour ferry ride (or a hop in an airplane) from Funchal, the island has an arid, low-slung, almost desert island vibe, a strong contrast with that of its neighbor.
Most people are drawn to Porto Santo’s 7.5km-long golden sand beach – considered one of the best in “Europe.” The island also has some worthwhile trails, delicious food and beautiful vistas. Despite the lack of water, Porto Santo has its own unique legacy of winemaking, with grape varietals not seen elsewhere in Portugal.
Planning tip: Porto Santo is a popular destination for domestic tourists during the summer; arrive outside of this season and you’ll have the island to yourself.
8. Travel back in time at the Convento de Santa Clara
Madeira’s convents were regarded as safe havens for the daughters of the nobility – strictly closed-off places where they wouldn’t be exposed to the dangers of the outside world. Convento de Santa Clara, in Funchal, functioned as such for four centuries, until a recent renovation opened its doors to the public.
Inside, you’ll find ancient religious art, a recreation of a nun’s cell, hauntingly beautiful choirs and other spaces that were closed off to the outside world for centuries.
Detour: If exploring old residences is your thing, tack on visits to the nearby Museu da Quinta das Cruzes and Casa-Museu Frederico de Freitas, both homes formerly belonging to Madeira’s wealthy class.
The famous Taberna da Poncha bar for selling the typical poncha drink. Mauro Rodrigues/Shutterstock
9. Sample Madeira’s cocktails
On mainland Portugal, the cocktail is a relatively elusive thing. On Madeira, it’s part of life, and the island is home to a variety of indigenous, occasionally wacky, mixed drinks.
The most famous of these is undoubtedly poncha, locally-distilled white rum, citrus juice and sugar and/or honey whipped together via a wooden whisk-like tool. Served in tiny glasses, it may not look like much and it goes down easy, but the poncha packs a disproportionate punch. Other local cocktails include the pé de cabra, a combination of red wine, cocoa powder and stout that somehow works; the Nikita, beer, pineapple and ice cream blitzed in a blender; and the cortado, a combination of hot barley “coffee,” sweet Madeira wine, sugar and lemon peel drunk in the colder mountainous inland parts of the island.
Planning tip: Serra de Água, practically smack-dab in the middle of the island, is home to several poncha bars; Taberna da Poncha is probably the most famous of the lot.
10. Visit the weekend market at Santo António da Serra
Funchal’s Mercado dos Lavradores gets all the press – and is worth a visit – but our pick for the island’s best market is the weekend-only Mercado Agrícola Santo António da Serra.
Located in the island’s western half, the small morning market is a gathering place for local farmers who bring an astounding array of produce, in particular tropical fruit, in addition to vegetables, grains, flowers, honey and other items. The market is unique in that it also functions as a social center, with many of the stalls doubling as bars or casual restaurants. Order a drink – a glass of locally-produced cider or poncha (see below) – and you’ll receive a dentinho, a free snack.
Detour: If you have your own wheels, continue 3km north to Miradouro da Portela, a viewpoint from where you can gaze over a dramatic slice of the island’s northern half.
Romance runs rich through Italy’s veins, with icons of amore to melt the hardest heart. But the most famous sight isn’t always the most swoon-worthy; find the real romance of Italy with a hot date at one of these alternative picks where, chances are, there’ll be fewer people to encroach on your special moment.
Romance icon: Verona’s romance icon is undoubtedly Juliet’s balcony. The dainty stone balcony at the 14th-century Casa di Giulietta is a magnet for lovers (and Shakespeare fans). Visiting romantics scrawl heart-rending graffiti in the charming courtyard and smooch on the balcony with their own Romeos and/or Juliets. It’s all rather lovely, which means tourists generally remain untroubled by the lack of any connection between the fictional lovers and the Veronese noble families who actually lived here.
The alternative: If literature’s star-crossed lovers don’t inspire, spend a balmy evening at Verona’s 1st-century Roman arena. Find a space for two on the steep stone steps, and the evening is yours to sip wine, be dazzled by on-stage theatrics, and gaze at a starry sky. Take snacks, a blanket and most essentially, a pillow (those stone steps have seriously bum-numbing qualities). For summer operas and ballets, the best seats in the house go for around €300, but thrifty lovers can snap up tickets to sit on the stone steps from as little as €20.
Romance icon: Climbing aboard one of Venice’s iconic gondolas to drift around the city’s canals, to the tune of a singing gondolier, is the holy grail of Italy’s romantic experiences. That is, until you see the price tag. There’s no doubting the beauty of Venice from the water, but the pleasure doesn’t come cheap (and yes, they do charge extra for the singing).
The alternative: a bicycle made for two. Flee the flocks of visitors in central Venice with a summer ferry excursion to The Lido. With a day’s bicycle hire, you and your date can pedal around the shady streets and catch some R&R away from Venice’s manic center. Lido on Bike will set you up with the most kitsch date there is – a two-seater tandem bike.
Romance icon: Throw one coin in the Trevi Fountain, and you’ll return to Rome some day. Throw in two, and you’ll marry an Italian. Throw in more than that and, well, desperate is not a good look. Lovers line up to get a selfie next to this jaw-dropping edifice, but crowds and coin-hurling visitors don’t make for a dream date.
The alternative: Visit the dome of St Peter’s Basilica. Start early for a climb to the top of Vatican City’s gigantic dome (but spare yourself the blisters and take the lift part-way). If you’re there for opening time, you’ll likely have a hazy view of Vatican City all to yourselves, and ample space for a quick smooch.
Romance icon: With the muscular form of Michelangelo’s David setting hearts a-flutter outside the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, and comely Renaissance maidens in every gallery, it’s the artistic heart of Florence that plucks at the heart strings. And nowhere elicits lovelorn sighs more than the Galleria degli Uffizi, with emblems of love like Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus gracing its walls. But museum fatigue from the brain-boggling volume of art, not to mention bumping elbows with hordes of other visitors, can sap that lovin’ feeling.
The alternative: The Giardino di Boboli, a short walk from the Uffizi, are a perfect lovers’ escape, and the further you wander into the gardens, the more secluded spaces you’ll find. Seek out a manicured corner of Florence’s most beautiful green space, breathe in the scent of citrus trees, and sigh among statues of bathing nymphs.
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Article first published in July 2012, and last updated in October 2020
An independent country only since 1993, Slovakia nonetheless is steeped in history, evident in its ancient towns, medieval castles and deep-rooted traditions.
With just over 5 million citizens, the diminutive nation bursts with lesser-known treasures that promise to surprise and delight even the most seasoned travelers. From subterranean wonders to majestic mountains, fairy-tale castles to inspiring national parks, Slovakia offers a wealth of adventures and unique cultural experiences.
Here’s our list of the best things to do in this Central European gem.
Slovakia is one of the best countries to visit next year. See our full list of Best in Travel 2025 winners.
1. Wander through mystical Slovenský Raj National Park
Its name translating to “Slovak Paradise National Park,” this reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its network of hiking trails meanders through dense fir forests, filling the air with a sweet fragrance and a touch of woodiness that reminds you of your Christmas tree. The trails weave through deep gorges and past cascading waterfalls, often requiring you to navigate ladders and chains, adding an element of adventure to your trek.
Detour: While exploring the park, don’t miss the nearby Dobšinská Ice Cave, one of the largest such caverns in Europe, where glistening ice formations and ethereal blue hues create a surreal underground world. Open from mid-May to mid-September, this cave offers a cool retreat from the summer heat.
You can savor both charming architecture and hearty cuisine in Bratislava’s Old Town. Shutterstock
2. Take in Bratislava’s architecture and sample Slovak cuisine
Adjoining both Austria and Hungary, Bratislava is the only capital in the world that borders two other sovereign states. Yet the variety of structures within its city limits make this city unique.
In the Old Town (Staré Mesto), cobblestone streets lead to architectural delights like the Gothic St Martin’s Cathedral, the art nouveau Blue Church and the neoclassical Primate’s Palace. While exploring the historical landmarks of the Main Square (Hlavné Námestie), enjoy stunning views of the city from the Old Town Hall tower (Stará Radnica). After all the sightseeing, seek out a traditional restaurant to tuck into traditional Slovak dishes like bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (sauerkraut soup).
Detour: The UFO Observation Deck on the SNP Bridge boasts the best panoramic views of the old town, Bratislava Castle and the Danube. You can savor fine dining in its restaurant while waiting for the sunset; the adventurous will love the thrilling 85m(180ft)-high skywalk.
In a country brimming with castles, the one at Spiš is one of the most impressive. Tomas Hulik/Shutterstock
3. Step back in time by castle-hopping
Slovakia beckons medieval and Renaissance architecture enthusiasts with its wealth of castles, chateaux and manor houses. Dating back to the 12th century, Spiš Castle in the east is one of Central Europe’s largest and most impressive complexes.
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With its fairy-tale ambience, Bojnice Castle is especially enchanting when covered in snow in winter. Lush gardens surround this romantic, neo-Gothic pile; it even boasts a zoo, making it a perfect family destination.
Another must-see is Orava Castle, built on the site of an older wooden fort after the Tartar invasion in 1241. Perched on a high rock above the Orava River, it offers remarkable views across rolling hills, forests, charming villages and distant mountains.
Planning tip: The castles come to life during many annual events and festivals, such as the International Festival of Ghosts and Spirits at Bojnice, held during April and May.
Domica Cave drips with eye-catching stalactites. Izabela Krecioch/Shutterstock
4. Descend into Slovakia’s underground wonderlands
Slovakia is a delight on the surface – but more gems are hidden underground. There are in fact over 7000 caves within Slovakia, and 45 of them are currently freely open to the public, most of them in Slovak Karst National Park.
Domica Cave, part of a 15km(15.5-mile)-long cave system that ends in Hungary, is famous for its stunning stalactite formations and underground river, which you can explore by boat. Ochtinská Aragonite Cave is one of only three caves featuring rare and almost sculptural Aragonite formations, offering a surreal underground experience.
Harmanecká Jaskyňa cave boasts bulky domes, chimneys and abysses shining in rare white soft sinter (also called “rockmilk”). So far, explorers have discovered 2763m (9065ft) of cave corridors here; the sightseeing route is just over 1km (.6 miles) long and takes about 60 minutes.
Planning tip: Wear comfortable shoes and a jacket, as the caves maintain a cool temperature year-round.
You can learn about the mining heritage of picture-perfect Banská Štiavnica through its monuments and festivals. Shutterstock
5. Learn about mining history in Banská Štiavnica
Nestled in the hills of central Slovakia, Banská Štiavnica boasts a rich gold- and silver-mining heritage dating back to the 12th century. Its narrow, winding streets lead to charming squares and hidden courtyards, while historical buildings, including elegant townhouses, churches and public buildings with colorful facades and ornate frescoes, showcase its architectural beauty.
The world’s first technical university, the Mining Academy, opened here in 1762, significantly advancing knowledge related to mining and metallurgy. Don’t miss out on exploring the tajchy, a sophisticated system of artificial water reservoirs built to support mining operations – a stellar example of town’s unique charm and ingenuity.
Detour: Climb Calvary Hill for a rewarding view of the town. Its slopes are dotted with chapels and crosses, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
6. Sip and swirl wine in the vineyards of the Small Carpathians
With its 12 viticultural zones, the Small Carpathians Wine Region is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine reds, whites and bubblies. In the heart of the region, the vineyards of Modra produce grapes that go into the spicy Veltlínske Zelené (Grüner Veltliner), the crisp green apple and citrus notes of Rizling Vlašský (Welschriesling) and the earthy, minerality of Frankovka Modrá (Blaufränkisch). Along the region’s wine route, you can enjoy guided tours and tastings that truly showcase the best of Slovakia’s oldest wine region.
If beer is more your style, seek out a few of Slovakia’s acclaimed microbreweries. In particular, don’t miss Erb Brewery in Banská Štiavnica, featured in Lonely Planet’s Global Beer Tour.
Planning tip: During the harvest festivals every September, expect lively celebrations that bring together music, food and wine. The autumn vineyards offer up glorious colors – from golden yellows to fiery oranges, deep reds, persistent greens and earthy browns – all set against the natural landscape.
You’ll also see locals adorned in vibrant folk costumes with intricate patterns. Women don embroidered blouses, wide skirts and colorful headscarves, while men sport embroidered shirts, broad belts and trousers with decorative trim.
The houses in Čičmany bear distinctive traditional patterns. Shutterstock
7. Learn about Čičmany’s artisanal heritage
Nestled in the hills of northern Slovakia’s Žilina region, Čičmany is a picturesque village renowned for its unique “Chichman pattern” that can be seen on beautifully preserved wooden houses, some over 200 years old. This intricate design originates from traditional folk art and decorates textiles, clothing and household items as well as house exteriors.
Artisans uphold this practice by crafting various items such as embroidery, garments, pillows and bedspreads, highlighting the pattern’s enduring beauty through generations. Explore the local museum to uncover the history and significance of these decorations.
Planning tip: Visit during Čičmany’s summer folk festivals, which feature traditional music, dance and crafts – then explore the tranquil countryside, ideal for hiking.
8. Bask in the thermal waters of Piešťany
For a relaxing retreat, head to Piešťany, a spa town renowned for its therapeutic thermal springs and mud baths. After long days of hiking in the Tatras, you can savor the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters amid beautifully landscaped parks. The spa’s geothermal water soothes muscles and promotes relaxation, while the sulfuric scent mingles with fresh air, enhancing the therapeutic ambience.
Planning tip: To ensure availability, book treatments in advance, especially during peak season.
There are trails in the High Tatras for hikers of all fitness levels. Jadwiga Figula Photography/Getty Images
9. Ascend up the High Tatras, Slovakia’s treasures
Slovakia’s tallest mountain range, the High Tatras are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing or simply soaking in magnificent views, these mountains offer year-round activities, mountain scenery, clear alpine lakes and abundant wildlife. The network of hiking trails caters to all levels, from gentle walks to challenging ascents. A must-do hike is to the glacial Štrbské Pleso lake, a serene spot surrounded by dramatic peaks.
Planning tip: For a quieter experience, consider visiting in late spring or early autumn, when the trails are less crowded and the weather is ideal for hiking. You might even spot a foraging bear.
Famous for its icy winters, steamy summers and busy festival calendar, Chicago has something going on in every season. The Windy City changes mood with each passing month, but some things are constant – the city’s lively nightlife, cultured museums and animated neighborhoods warrant a visit at any time of year.
Events such as Lollapalooza and the Chicago Blues Festival have put the city on the national festival map, but events fill every month of the year, from championship sports to special museum openings, cultural fairs and community festivals.
Chicago shines in the summertime, with hot, humid days but plenty of lakeshore beaches and parks where you can catch the breeze. The calmer spring and fall have their own charm, and winter sees lower tourist numbers and plenty of snow and ice along the lakefront, adding to the holiday magic.
If you’re looking for a city break with phenomenal art and architecture, truly globe-trotting cuisine and exuberant festivals, Chicago will keep you busy at any time of year. Here’s our guide to the top times to visit the Windy City.
Outdoor ice skating is all the rage in Chicago during the icy winter. Miune/Shutterstock
Low season: November-April
Best time to visit for holiday celebrations and cheaper accommodations
Although Chicago’s winter temperatures hover around freezing point, the bitter wind blowing in off the lake can knock several dozen degrees off the highs due to the wind chill effect. Trees and bushes along the lakeshore become encrusted in ice and plumes of steam rise over the skyscrapers.
But while the chilly temperatures scare many tourists away, bargains abound, particularly for accommodation. Travelers will have their pick of the deals at hotels across the city throughout the winter months, and tables at top restaurants are easier to find.
In late November and December, the holiday season brings festive light shows to locations such as Lincoln Park Zoo, plus holiday markets and outdoor ice-skating rinks. The icy scenes along the lakeshore add some extra Chicago magic. Museums are less crowded, too, making the winter season the best time to explore the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the world’s oldest, largest and most-visited art museums.
Michigan Avenue bustles with holiday shoppers and downtown shines with a million twinkling lights. Winter is the perfect time to warm up with some Chicago deep-dish pizza and form your own opinion on the city’s feud with the New York-style pizza pie.
January is Chicago’s coldest month, with temperatures dipping as low as 18ºF, and an icy wind blowing along the wind tunnels created by downtown’s skyscrapers. This is also the city’s snowiest month, with approximately 10 inches falling in an average year. Plan to stay inside as much as possible and enjoy all there is to eat and drink here.
The Chicago River gets an emerald makeover with biodegradable dye for St Patrick’s Day. saraporn/Shutterstock
The city is still deep in the throes of winter in February, but there are plenty of events to keep you busy, such as the Chinese New Year Parade, Cupid’s Undie Run, and Chicago Theatre Week. Head up to the observation deck atop the former John Hancock Center for epic views over the frozen lake.
By March, many Chicago residents are wondering if the sun will ever shine again. Windy City-zens count the days during the grayest and windiest month when temperatures rarely top 37ºF. However, some fun events take the edge off the cold, including the city’s famous St Patrick’s Day parade, when the Chicago River gets a shamrock-green makeover with biodegradable dye.
As spring begins in April, the weather can be unpredictable. Be ready for sun, snow, or rain – or maybe all three in the same day. That doesn’t put off sports fans, who flock to Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Field for the opening of the baseball season.
The shoulder seasons in spring and fall are great times to enjoy the sights without the crowds. Boogich/Getty Images
Shoulder season: May & September-October
Best time to visit for culture without the crowds
Chicago has two shoulder seasons – in late spring and early fall – when the city is either shaking off the winter chill or getting ready for it. Both are excellent times to visit, particularly if you plan to explore the city’s museums.
Temperatures are a manageable 50ºF to 70ºF degrees, and there’s a buoyant mood in the city, although rain is often part of the forecast. Budget travelers can find good deals on airfares and hotel rooms, but keep an eye on the calendar; big sporting events and festivals can cause prices to spike.
In May, the weather finally warms up, spring rolls in, and everyone dashes to Chicago’s parks, lakefront trails, baseball stadiums and beer gardens. Beaches open at the end of the month over the Memorial Day weekend and hotels see a rising number of travelers checking in. The better weather means a big turnout in the streets for community-focused festivals such as Mole de Mayo and Sueños Chicago.
Kids go back to school in September and beaches close after the Labor Day weekend, as Chicago’s peak visitor season begins to wind down. There’s still plenty on the cultural calendar though, with the Chicago Jazz Festival, and Riot Fest.
Temperatures drop even further in October, averaging 53ºF, and the baseball season is over, but basketball and hockey fill the gap at the end of the month. Chicago Bears games and tailgate parties are still in full swing, while more active types put their energy into the Chicago Marathon.
Warm summer days bring big crowds to Chicago’s beaches. by Ken Ilio/Getty Images
High season: June-August
Best time to visit for festivals, beaches and baseball
Warm weather and a packed festival calendar make summer the peak time to visit Chicago. When school’s out, families descend on Chicago’s beaches in droves for fun in the sun, and museums are often crowded with locals and visitors. Expect to pay top rates for hotels and vacation rentals. You’ll also need to book sought-after restaurant tables and theater tickets well in advance.
In June, schools let out and festival season ramps up. The temperature creeps towards 80ºF, but it rains on a third of the days. That doesn’t deter the people from partying during Chicago’s spirited pride celebrations.
One of the most popular ways to see the city in summer is on a boat tour, and one of the best is run by the Chicago Architecture Center. Make the most of the city’s many parks – art-filled Millennium Park marks the start of a chain of parklands running south from downtown, following the banks of Lake Michigan.
July is the month Chicagoans wait for all year. Festivals rock Chicago’s neighborhoods every weekend, with top billing going to Lollapalooza. Millennium Park has concerts downtown nightly, Taste of Chicago attracts visitors from all around the world, and fireflies glow everywhere. It can be hot and humid, but with so much to enjoy, who cares?
August is a time for warm, sometimes sizzling weather, concerts, festivals, baseball games, and beach frolicking. Tourists are still in Chicago en masse, so lodging prices are high, and lines can be long. Enthusiastic Cubs fans fill the stands at Wrigley Field (or stake out seats on the Wrigley Rooftops overlooking the stadium if they can’t get seats inside).
Visiting Chicago: a month-by-month guide
Here are the best times to visit and what you can expect throughout the year in Chicago. All events are subject to change.
January
January is the coldest month to visit Chicago, with temperatures ranging from 18°F to 31°F. While the weather is chilly, the accommodation and flight prices are most affordable at this time of year. Consider ice skating at Millennium Park, attending a Chicago Blackhawks game or strolling through Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights.
Key events: Light Up The Lake, Annual Polar Plunge, Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights
February
The cold weather continues, but so do lower flight and accommodation prices, making February a great month for budget travel. Explore the impressive collection at the Art Institute of Chicago without the crowds, or check out the Space Exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry. Visit the the Chicago Auto Show, one of the oldest car shows in the country, to see what everyone will be driving in the coming years, or get discounted show tickets to dozens of on and off-Broadway shows during Chicago Theatre Week. Book tickets in advance, as both of these activities sell out quickly even in winter.
Key events: Chicago Auto Show, Chicago Theatre Week, Cupid’s Undie Run
March
In March, the city shifts from harsh winter weather to more bearable average temperatures ranging from 27°F to 42°F, although Chicago’s “march madness” of weather means you can experience rain, snow, wind and sun. However, there’s still plenty to do, including the Chicago Wine Festival at the Museum of Science and Industry, the Chicago Flower & Garden show, and the endless celebrations for St. Patrick’s Day. Since 1962, the city has dyed the Chicago River green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. While the dye used to last for nearly a month back in the 60s, it only lasts for a few hours today. Watch the festive St. Patrick’s Day Parade proceed down Columbus Drive and enjoy music from the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band, an Irish band that has led the parade since it started in 1956.
Key events: St. Patricks Day Parade & River Dyeing, Chicago Wine Festival
April
Nearing the end of the low season, April temperatures average around 36°F to 52°F, and the city welcomes spring. The end of April brings milder weather, perfect for boat tours like the Chicago River Architecture Tour. There will be fewer crowds around the city compared to the summer months, so take advantage of these at the Chicago Art Institute and the Museum of Science and Industry. The Chicago Cubs home opener takes place in early April – a great way to experience the Chicago spirit with baseball and a beer.
Key events: Chicago Cubs home opener game, Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, The Great Chicago Egg Hunt
May
May is the best time to explore the city’s cultural spots without the crowds. Temperatures average from 50°F to 65°F, and you can expect some rainy days. Enjoy Chicago’s Mayfest, an annual festival in the Lincoln Park neighborhood filled with food, live music, an artisan market and the Armitage Art Show. Run, bike or walk the Lakefront Trail along the Chicago River and watch the Memorial Day Parade along State Street.
Key events: Mayfest, Illinois Craft Beer Week, Maifest, Memorial Day Parade, Mole de Mayo, Sueños Music Festival
June
June kicks off peak season, a time of year best for relaxing on Chicago’s beaches, enjoying music festivals and watching baseball. The weather is warm, but the heat isn’t intense, with temperatures around 60°F to the mid-70s°F. Enjoy one of many music festivals in June, including Chicago SummerDance, the Chicago Gospel Music Festival and the Chicago Blues Festival. Make time for the Chicago Pride Parade in Boystown, one of Chicago’s most LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods.
Key events: Chicago Blues Festival, Maifest, Chicago Pride Parade, Craft Brews at Lincoln Park Zoo
July
July is one of the hottest months in Chicago, with temperatures averaging 68°F to 84°F. Rent a kayak, take a river cruise or walk along the Chicago River. It’s also a great time to visit one of Chicago’s beautiful beaches on the shores of Lake Michigan, such as North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach and Montrose Beach. Enjoy the outdoors at a summer music festival (many start in July or August), like Lollapalooza.
Key events: Lollapalooza (depending on start date), Ravenswood on Tap, Horner Brew Fest, Square Roots Festival, Tacos y Tamales Festival, Argyle Night Market, Wicker Park Fest
August
August marks the end of high season in Chicago, and the city is filled with kayaking and paddleboating, exciting cultural events like the Chicago Jazz Festival and unique opportunities like Chicago’s SummerDance, an outdoor dance festival that features dance lessons and live music. Temperatures range from 68°F to 84°F. On the lakefront, check out the Chicago Air and Water Show, which features incredible performances from military jets and pilots. Watch fireworks at Navy Pier or enjoy an outdoor movie night at Millennium Park or Grant Park.
Key events: Chicago Air and Water Show, Chicago Jazz Festival, Chicago’s SummerDance, Argyle Night Market
September
Shoulder season kicks off in September, an excellent time to visit Chicago for fun cultural events like the Chicago Underground Film Festival, and more affordable accommodation and flights. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 58°F to 75°F. Experience Chicago’s rich jazz heritage at the Chicago Jazz Festival or unite with fellow food lovers at the Taste of Chicago food festival.
Key events: Chicago Underground Film Festival, Taste of Chicago, Chicago Jazz Festival, Argyle Night Market, Lakeview East Festival of the Arts
October
The city transitions fully to autumn, with daytime temperatures hovering around 50°F to 60°F (dipping into the 40s°F at night). In October, enjoy fall events like Navy Pier’s Haunted House, ghost tours with Chicago Hauntings Ghost Tours and trick-or-treating at Lincoln Park’s Boo at the Zoo. Check out Lincoln Park’s Apple Fest, Navy Pier’s annual Halloween Bash or the Chicago Marathon.
Key events: Chicago International Film Festival, Lincoln Park’s Apple Fest, Navy Pier Halloween Bash, Chicago Marathon
November
Kicking off the low season, November welcomes visitors with cooler temperatures, affordable accommodation and the start of holiday festivities. Start with the Thanksgiving Parade, which travels down North Michigan Avenue with beloved Disney characters, marching bands, Santa Claus, fireworks and one million lights on The Magnificent Mile’s 200+ trees.
Key events: Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, The Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged Beer, Thanksgiving Parade, Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights, Riot Fest
December
Chicago becomes a festive winter wonderland with cold temperatures, potential for snow and festive holiday activities. Visit Millennium Park for the Christmas tree lighting, buy gifts for your loved ones at the German Christmas market (Christkindlmarket), watch The Nutcracker at the Joffrey Ballet or cozy up by the firepits at Light Up The Lake.
Key events: Light Up The Lake, Christkindlmarkt, Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights
At Lonely Planet, we love a dream trip. We are always looking for destinations that you can’t find anywhere else. And South America has countless opportunities for adventures that check an item off your bucket list. This year, head south and find towering glaciers, multi-night cruises along the Amazon and otherworldly deserts.
Still, craving more? That is why we have gathered eight of the dreamiest trips to take through this expansive continent.
Whether you explore Patagonia on foot or on horseback, there is so much wilderness to uncover. Sergey Didenko/Shutterstock
1. Trek into the Wilds of Patagonia in Chile and Argentina
When you’re on the road to nowhere at South America’s southern tip, keep going. There’s no reaching Patagonia in a hurry, whether you arrive bleary-eyed by plane, on a rumbling overnight bus or by choppy ferry. But it’s instantly worth it when you first see its toothy granite peaks, piercing blue lakes, booming glaciers and buff-colored steppe veined with silver rivers. Topping every Patagonia must-trek list is Torres del Paine and its much-raved-about, four-day, 50-mile (80km) ‘W’ hike. The masterstroke is the vast, iceberg-calving, crushed-meringue-like expanse of the Grey Glacier. These days, you can choose your level of comfort, from wind-pounded tent to refugio dorm bed to luxe lodge where you can round out a day’s hike over steaks and pisco sours.
For fewer crowds, sidestep peak season (November to February) or tackle the tougher, remoter, less-hyped eight- to 10-day ‘O’ circuit. Argentina lures intrepid folk to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares for challenging treks like the four-day, 40-mile (65km) Huemul Circuit, or you can embark on the long-distance Huella Andina, a 372-mile (600km) stomp across Northern Patagonia from Neuquén to Chubut, rounding up five national parks. Trek in Patagonia and you’ll curse the wicked winds and cruel climbs. But you’ll be back, bearing muddy boots, as there’s no place on Earth quite like it.
Explore the untamed wilderness of the Amazon in a kayak. Shutterstock
2. Journey down the Amazon in Brazil
In the roadless tracts of the Amazon, highways are made of water and oversized ferries are floating buses carrying people and produce from place to place. Begin in Manaus the epicenter for adventures into the jungle. Dozens of lodges lie within a half-day boat journey from the city, including riverside spots where the days are spent tracking monkeys, macaws and pink river dolphins, and the nights offer immersion in the wondrous cacophony of the rainforest’s nocturnal wildlife. It’s a slow, four-day journey to Belém aboard a triple-decked wooden vessel strung with hammocks. Along the way, there are several worthwhile places to break up the trip, including Santarém, which has a pleasant riverside promenade, leafy parks and open-sided restaurants serving up fresh fish from the Amazon. Just west of Santarém is Alter do Chão, a village fronting an astonishing lagoon complete with white-sand beaches and limpid waters ideal for snorkeling. The boat journey ends at Belém, a captivating city near the mouth of the river. By day, shoppers crowd into the vast belle epoque Ver-o-Peso Market, the stalls heaving with exotic Amazonian fruits, medicinal plants and the fresh catch of the day. In the evening, friends and couples gather at the open-air bars and eateries of shore-hugging Estação das Docas, the perfect spot to watch the sunset over Guajará Bay.
Enjoy the iconic beaches of Rio de Janiero and the stunning views from its rolling mountains. Shutterstock
3. Live it up in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janiero has an idyllic setting for a metropolis. Wedged between forest-covered mountains and golden beaches, human life mixes with marmosets skittering through leafy parks and capybaras grazing along the shores of Lagoa, while street markets heave with exotic fruits. The wonders of the tropics seem deeply woven into the urban fabric here. When the sun is high overhead, there’s no better place to be than Ipanema Beach. Surfers jockey for space off rocky Arpoador as vendors wind through the bikini- and sunga (Speedo)-clad crowds proffering agua de coco (coconut water), cerveja (beer) and other cold drinks. Bronzed bodies are everywhere – kicking footballs, jogging along the water’s edge and cycling the promenade. In the evening, life takes a different form. Samba’s rapid rhythms draw revelers to Lapa’s dancehalls and a bohemian crowd heads for Santa Teresa’s hilltop cocktail lounges. With so much on offer, it’s no wonder Cariocas (locals) joke that “Deus é Brasileiro” (God is Brazilian) and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.
Travel to the moon in the Atacama Desert with its expansive, dry landscapes that feel otherworldly. Shutterstock
4. Visit other worlds in the Atacama Desert in Chile
Steam spills from gurgling mud pools as a geyser blasts superheated water into the frosty air. The sun peaks over the mountains, bathing the geothermal field of El Tatio in golden light. Walking amid these sputtering features high in the Andes, it’s easy to feel like you’ve left Earth behind and landed on another planet. To the west, the wind creates artful, undulating patterns in the red-gold sand dunes of the aptly named Valle de Marte (Mars Valley). Nearby lie the dramatic multihued rock formations of the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) and shimmering salt lakes that seem as lifeless as the surrounding desert – until a flock of brilliant pink flamingos arrives to feed on brine shrimp and other microorganisms. These are just a few of the many astonishing landscapes of the Atacama, one of the oldest and driest deserts in the world – and the otherworldly wonders don’t end at sundown. With clear skies and little light pollution, the region is also renowned for stargazing.
Hike deep into Colombias wilderness before exploring its desert. Joerg Steber/Shutterstock
5. Venture from the desert to the jungle in Colombia
Colombia’s 1000-mile Caribbean coastline is way more than just a string of palm-fringed beaches. Behind the strips of sand lies a mix of strident cultures, diverse ecosystems and molded-in-stone history. Flush up against the border with Venezuela, La Guajira stands at the northern tip of the South American continent. The scrubby landscapes, best navigated in an off-road vehicle, are inhabited by the Indigenous Wayuu people, known for their intricate weaving and forthright resistance to colonization. The coast’s biggest lure for first-time visitors is the well-preserved walled city of Cartagena, 249 miles to the west, its basic structure unaltered for centuries, and its charm and mystique unrivaled anywhere in the country. With intimate plazas and sturdy fortifications, the former trade port is an evocative place for lovers of history, romance and good food. You’ll find grittier and less crowded urban action in Santa Marta. The coast around Santa Marta is lush and humid, culminating in the small, forested swathe of Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, a paradise of meandering coastal trails leading to idyllic swimming spots. The city is used as a base for excursions into the misty mountains of Minca and the isolated trek-in ruins of Ciudad Perdida, a one-time citadel of the pre-Columbian Tayrona civilization. West again, past Cartagena, the coast is less touristy until you reach the Gulf of Urabá, beyond which lies the thin jungle-covered Darien Gap isthmus, where North and South America meet.
Learn the power of evolution on the Galápagos with the help of wildlife you can’t find anywhere else. Ecuadorpostales/Shutterstock
6. See evolution in action on the Galápagos
The world has a lot to thank the Galápagos Islands for. Famously connected to Charles Darwin and his theory of evolution, these islands were never part of the South American mainland, meaning plants and animals here followed their own extraordinary paths. Tortoises, free of predators, became huge. Finches, lacking competition, sub-specialized into tool users (woodpecker finch), seed eaters (ground finch) and bloodsuckers (vampire finch), among others. Flightless cormorants dive like porpoises, and iguanas feed in the sea. The landscapes are just as unusual, varying from island to island. Younger islands like Isabela burst with volcanic activity, while central Santa Cruz features endangered scalesia forests. Older islands to the east include Española, whose flat-topped cliffs are home to colonies of waved albatross – a bird so massive it needs a runway to get aloft. While it’s impossible to see everything in one trip, on even a short cruise, the days are packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, from spotting blue-footed boobies in a mating dance to snorkeling over lava formations.
Pro tip: Small (typically 16-passenger) cruise ships offer the best way to see the islands. Peruse a range of itineraries with Elsewhere.
Find the reflective surface of Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, and see flamingos along the way. Loredana Habermann/Shutterstock
7. Marvel at surreal Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia
Driving across the blinding white landscape, it’s easy to lose all sense of proportion. The horizon vanishes, and mirages form and then melt away on Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni – the largest salt flats on the planet. The surreal perspective only intensifies after a rainstorm, when a thin layer of water creates a mirror-like surface reflecting the sky overhead. Stepping out of the 4WD and across this otherworldly terrain is like walking on the clouds. Tours from the lofty town of Uyuni (elevation: a whopping 12,140ft/3700m) rumble out to the great sunbaked plains. Along the way, you’ll stop at a mountaintop emerging from a snow-white sea – or at least that’s what Isla Incahuasi resembles. This cactus-covered “island” is all that remains of an ancient volcano that was once surrounded by a prehistoric lake. By late afternoon, the blustery desert cold arrives along with a legendary sunset, as the sky and glass-like earth below light up in fiery colors.
Pro tip: Numerous companies offer tours (typically three-day circuits) from Uyuni. It’s worth paying extra for a reputable outfit.
Travel back in time with a visit to one of Peru’s mesmerizing ruins. Philip Lee Harvey/Lonely Planet
8. Encounter ancient civilizations and Mythical Ruins in Peru
Peru’s incredible ruins showcase a rich tapestry of pre-Columbian cultures spread over five millennia. From fortified ridgelines in the Andes to mysterious geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert, the country is scattered with archaeological sites. The misty terraces that embellish the slopes of Machu Picchu are merely a gateway to less heralded but equally fascinating places. While none are quite as spectacular as the fabled “Lost City of the Incas”, many are significantly older, and most are a lot less crowded. The South is a good place to start. With Cuzco as your base, pitch northwest to the ruins and museums of the Sacred Valley. A special ticket, the boleto turístico, covers a dozen sites here, including magnificently terraced Pisac, megalithic Sacsayhuamán and geometrically aligned Ollantaytambo, famed for its aqueducts and fountains. Save time for the Lost City’s smaller sibling, Choquequirao. Sometimes referred to as a mini Machu Picchu, it’s more tranquil thanks to its relative isolation (it’s a four-day round-trip hike). Several sites are easily visited from Peru’s big cities. Pachacamac, 20 miles (31km) southeast of the capital, Lima, is an ancient citadel with adobe and stone palaces and temple pyramids. Chan Chan, on the coast just outside handsome Trujillo, is the Americas’ largest pre-Columbian town and the largest adobe city in the world. Branching off into remote valleys in the snowcapped Cordillera Blanca, you’ll have to endure long bus rides and thin air to feast your eyes upon Chavín de Huántar – it’s worth the effort, though.
