If your New Year’s resolution was to travel more, you’re in luck. The travel industry is booming, and leading the pack is South America. As the region continues to improve infrastructure, increase high-end options, and actively market itself as a tourist destination, 2013 is one of the best times to visit for a combination of quality amenities and services with still relatively low prices. South America destinations have been topping lists of best trips and tours for this year from acclaimed publications such as National Geographic and the New York Times. Here is our own list of best South America tours for 2013.
Rio de Janeiro. Leading the pack of places to visit in South America in 2013 is the very lively city of Rio de Janeiro. Brazil has always stood out from its Latin neighbors with a special flair, friendlessness, and savvy demeanor, but now the city famous for its beaches and much more is sprucing up for its moment in the spotlight. Rio de Janeiro will host the 2014 World Cup as well as the 2016 Summer Olympics. This is in addition to its annual Carnival celebration which brings thousands into the city each February. Hotel rooms are already filling up for the big events, but if you’re not a big sports fan, this shouldn’t bother you. Head to Rio this year before the masses arrive. Those with extra time should try and see a bit of Brazil outside of its most loved city. Iguazu Falls pours over the junction of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay and was recently named one of the 7 Wonders of Nature. Additionally, to the north, Brazil contains an impressive portion of the Amazon Rainforest, also named one of the 7 Wonders of Nature.
Colombia. Colombia is a beautiful country that recently shed its negative reputation to emerge as a South America country with beaches and jungles and no cares in the world. For US and Canadian visitors, it also has the benefit of being a shorter flight from North America than most other South American countries. However, since some people haven’t gotten the memo that Colombia is now open for tourism business, the entire country still feels like a hidden, overlooked gem. With the violence that used to keep visitors away largely confined to isolated jungle corners that you probably couldn’t get to even if you tried, the country has opened itself to the world. Colonial cities, beautiful beaches, dense rainforest, and plenty of adventure activities push Colombia toward the top of our must-visit list for 2013.
Quito. This charming city is considered by many to be simply an essential stopover on the way to the more glamorous Galapagos Islands. But this Andean city is worthy of more than a stopover. The historic center is one of the first urban areas to be named a UNESCO site, and is also considered to be the best preserved colonial center in South America. But even outside the whitewashed historic center Quito has much to offer, from lively nightlife to a fun half-day excursion up the teleferiQo for an amazing view of the entire cityscape. Quito is one of those rare cities that balance the conveniences and attractions of a large, modern city with the charm and small-town feel of an Andean village.
Peru. Peru has always been popular with travelers due to its famous Inca city of Machu Picchu. But 2013 brings even more reasons to visit. Once known as primarily a place for backpackers, Peru has added several luxury hotels in the last year, most of which are now open and welcoming guests. Infrastructure has greatly improved in Peru as well, an upgrade instituted in order to deal with the increase in visitors after Machu Picchu’s 100th year anniversary of rediscovery in 2011. Peru’s tourism board has also been working to promote the country’s other attractions, such as the Amazon Rainforest, Nazca Lines, and Lake Titicaca. With more emphasis on these other areas, the safety and convenience of traveling in Peru has never been better.
