The Amazon Rainforest is just one of Brazil’s 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it the country in South America with the most honors.

One of the most distinguished recognitions an attraction, cultural facet, or geographical region can earn in the travel industry is a UNESCO World Heritage Site declaration. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee, comprised of members from 21 countries, meets once per year to determine the best that nature and humanity have created, and which of those should be particularly honored and preserved for future generations. There is a stringent list of 10 criteria that each site, either in the cultural or natural category, is compared against in order to qualify its outstanding significance.

On the South American continent, the country leading the count for the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites is Brazil, a testament to its excellent cultural and natural wonders on an international scale. Brazil has a total of 18 declared UNESCO sites, and Peru comes in second in South America with 11 sites to boast about. Plan to visit at least one or two of the following top UNESCO destinations, officially some of the best in the world, on your next Brazil vacation.

The historical downtown of the old mining town, Ouro Preto, still promotes the gorgeous aesthetics and heavy atmosphere of its colonial days.

Historic City Centers

Per the old European styles, practically all cities and towns in South America, no matter what their size, have a central plaza around which everything else revolves. Historically, these centers were the hub for a mixture of commercial, administrative, religious, and social activities. Due to the Portuguese colonization of Brazil starting in the mid-1500s until the early 1800s, the majority of the country’s towns feature stunning examples of Portugal’s architecture, earning their downtowns UNESCO recognition.

For example, the town of Olinda about 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) north of Recife has beautiful scenery and buildings dating back to the 17^th century. The intricate balconies, heavy doors, and painted walls all remind of an era long gone. Ouro Preto is a former mining town, whose glory peaked during the Brazilian gold rush and golden age in the 1700s. The vast riches to be had attracted some of the most high-level Europeans to the New World. Today, few modern buildings exist in Ouro Preto because all new constructions must adhere to UNESCO-valued Baroque historical standards.

The colorful center of Sao Luis

The city center of Salvador de Bahia, a top Brazil destination particularly during the Carnival month of February every year, was honored in 1985 and referred to as the Pelourinho. This area was vital as Salvador was the first colonial capital of Brazil. Today, the Pelourinho is a fantastic and charming place to spend your Brazil holiday strolling down its old avenues taking in the sight of more than 800 restored facades and interiors, not to mention countless churches, cafés, restaurants, and shops.

Diamantina, an old diamond mining town as its name suggests, has a marvelous city center featuring dated gems such as the quaint blue and white Capela Imperial do Amparo church whose construction began in 1773 but was not completed for another 4 decades. São Luís, on the other hand, is known for its historical city center where the buildings are covered by vibrant and delicately designed tiles, forming seemingly endless mosaics on the architectures themselves. This fascinating sight has led the city to earn its nickname as “The Tiles City.”

Iguazu National Park, which includes the spectacular Iguazu Falls, is one of Brazil’s most popular destinations and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Iguazu National Park

Many might already be familiar with the legendary Iguazu Falls, but in fact, the entire area around it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since November 17, 1986. Iguazu National Park spreads over an incredible 555,987 acres across Argentina and Brazil, and within its grounds are a multitude of diverse animal and plant species including endangered types such as jaguars, anteaters, South American tapir, and more. Visitors at the site as part of an Iguazu Falls tour can go on a boat trip from the Argentina side for a more intimate encounter with the 8,858 feet (2,700 meters) wide waterfall, see sweeping panoramas of the landscape from the Brazil side, and discover the luscious national parks available on both sides, all within a single (but long!) day. Most recently, Iguazu Falls was named one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature alongside peers such as the Amazon Rainforest, Table Mountain in South Africa, and Komodo National Park in Indonesia.

Spot a variety of exotic wildlife during your trip to the Pantanal, including caimans and herons.

The Pantanal

The Pantanal is one of the world’s largest wetlands, covering somewhere between 54,000 and 74,000 square miles. The rainy season every year is the source of its fertility, providing resources to all that is around it and those animals that depends on the Pantanal for life itself. There are more than 1000 bird, 400 fish, 300 mammal, 480 reptile, and 9000 invertebrate species to be found on its premises. On a Pantanal tour or boating excursion, lucky visitors might even get to spot some endangered creatures such as the jaguar, mane wolf, giant anteater, or yacare caiman, or perhaps the rare giant river otter!

What kinds of animals would you like to see during your Pantanal trip in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul?

Are you looking to visit a new South American destination unlike any you’ve already experienced? The state of Mato Grosso do Sul in southern Brazil will hit your travel lusting spot. This region’s beauty is absolutely unmatched, with sunken water-filled caves, the most incredible wetlands on earth, and modestly-sized cities that showcase the best of Brazilian culture. Better yet for the traveler, Mato Grosso do Sul is just a short internal flight from the legendary Iguazu Falls that linger with the border of Argentina. Thanks to the tropical and subtropical climates, there is never a bad time to visit. January is the warmest month with the most rain, and July is the coolest.

What are you waiting for? Be sure to speak with your travel advisor to ensure these gorgeous locations in Mato Grosso do Sul are not left off your Brazil travel plans!

Go diving in Bonito’s underwater caverns to see magnificent wildlife hidden from landlubbers.

Bonito
The name says it all—“pretty” in Portuguese—and the town does not disappoint. Or rather, it is the municipality’s natural treasures that travelers go seeking for. This eco-tourism capital is just a short 180 miles (300 kilometers) from Mato Grosso do Sul’s capital, Campo Grande, and about 16 hours by bus from Iguazu Falls with a transfer in the middle. The Pantanal wetlands are also not too far away up in the northwest. A small airport makes travel easy for those with little time. A number of adventure tours can be booked on-site, but organizing something as part of a Brazil vacation package beforehand is generally less of a hassle.

Cavern diving is the most popular recreational activity to try in Bonito, especially in Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Cave) where the azure hues at more than 325 feet (100 meters) deep remain as clear as if they were at the surface, giving way to spectacular underwater fish performances. Snorkeling in the Rio da Prata (Silver River) is also an unforgettable experience putting you within arm’s reach of exotic wildlife.

Don’t miss out on a walk along Bonito’s forest trails and listen to the bird symphonies scattered throughout the dense foliage. The best time to visit Bonito is between December and March during the rainy season when everything is green and the rivers are swollen with possibilities.

Sunsets seen in the Pantanal wetlands are some of the most staggering in Brazil.

The Pantanal
The Pantantal wetland is so large that it actually spreads over both Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul states. In fact, it dominates the international stage as the largest of its kind on earth and the third largest environmental reserve in the world. Perhaps the most visually appealing aspect of the expansive, 88,800 square mile (230,000 square kilometers) lowlands is the fact that it curves up on all sides, leading to various mountain ranges seen in the distance.

Seen from the air, the sapphire rivers that cut through the Pantanal contrasted with the rich greens of the flora is a spectacular sight indeed. Back down on earth, a slow cruise to observe the incredibly diverse ecosystem up close is a must-do experience during any Brazil holiday. Make your Pantanal tour reservation in nearby Campo Grande, or in the gateway town of Corumbá. See if you can spot some of the wetland’s endangered species during your trip, or go fishing between March and October!

Set in the middle of cattle country, the city of Campo Grande is a grand mixture of the traditional with the contemporary.

Campo Grande
As the largest and capital city of Mato Grosso do Sul with a metro area population of just about 1 million, Campo Grande is perhaps the most accessible destination in the state. The Campo Grande International Airport mainly caters to domestic flights, although a few fly to neighboring countries.

Located in the middle of the state, the city also well serves other favorite places such as Bonito and the Pantanal; Rio de Janeiro is just a 20-hour bus ride away if you have the time to traverse Brazil’s immense properties. Spend some time learning about the regional traditional lifestyles at the insightful Memorial da Cultura Indigena (Indigenous Culture) museum, as well as the Parish of San Francisco de Assis which stands as a respected icon in the old city.

Parque Ecológico do Sóter (Sóter Ecological Park) is a great place to spend an afternoon no matter what your age, skating along the walkways or maybe just lying in the soft grass. Finally, don’t forget to do your souvenir shopping at the House of the Craftsman or Barroarte Fair which have great varieties of delicately made artisan goods to choose from.

Throughout the festival, music and dance literally invade all parts of the city and its inhabitants. Day and night, people gather in the streets to show off their samba moves, musical talents, complicated costumes, and more than anything, to have fun and share their culture and cheerfulness with the rest of the world.

Samba is at the heart of the Rio Carnival. This typical Brazilian dance and music originated in the Afro-Brazilian community in the 17^th, 18^th, and 19^th century, and is now one of the core elements of the Brazilian culture. The term samba derives from the Angolan word “semba” which referred to a type of ritual music in African countries.

During Carnival, all the best samba schools of Rio participate in a contest, the Samba Parade, the highlight of the entire week. Each school represents a specific neighborhood, with its own dances, music, and costumes. They practice for months before the Carnival to make sure they put on the best show in the Sambodromo, a gigantic hall where the parade takes place every year.

Other noteworthy events are the Carnival Balls, which are held in all the most popular venues in the city. The most famous (and expensive) one takes place at the Copacabana Palace, a 5-star luxury resort. If you’re on a budget, there are many other balls to attend, with tickets ranging from $70 to $150. Everyone dresses up in shiny party costumes and come to the ball to dance the night away. There are balls scheduled every night during the length of the Carnival. Check out the official Rio Carnival 2012 website to find the detailed program.

Of course, there are also ways to partake in the festivities without spending too much money. It can be expensive to purchase tickets to the Samba Parade or to the various balls. However, it’s free to enjoy the hundreds of bands and parties that take to the streets every day. Some parties are held in specific places, such as the city’s parks, and others are processions of dancers and merrymakers that just follow bands as they play. The largest street party takes place in Cinelandia Square. And even if you don’t have a ticket to the parade, it’s worth taking a look outside the Sambodromo on parade days as the street is generally packed with people that just want to join in on the fun.

Why not use your South American vacation to rejoice in the good and bad of the old year and get a vigorous jump into the fresh one? Who knows, you might even get to check off a few New Year’s resolutions ahead of time!

The mainly Catholic Christmas traditions of the continent below the equator, where the seasons are inverted with those of the northern hemisphere, have flair of their own. Generally, the major festivities with friends and family are held on Christmas Eve. After mass at the local church, neighborhoods ring with traditional music and food-filled parties (centered on an immense turkey) that continue until the early morning. Fireworks are also shot off in the dark of night. On Christmas Day however, much of South America is closed for rest. That means you get to explore your destination in a unique atmosphere of peace and quiet!

Here are our top suggestions for the best places in South America to spend your holiday season.

Doesn’t Paraty, Brazil look like the perfect place to spend your holidays and launch into the New Year?

Paraty, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro might steal the spotlight the rest of the year, but come New Year’s Eve, it’s Paraty’s time to shine. The ocean waters are pristine cerulean, the nearby jungle gives way to an exotic escape, and the fully developed region has all the modern comforts and indulgences for ending 2011 in style. Travel to Brazil for the ultimate New Year’s where dozens and dozens of nightlife options, from the trendiest clubs to the finest restaurants, await. When you begin to seek some new sights, just venture up and down the brilliant Brazilian coast to other beachside corners such as Ubatuba and Trindade.

Wake up to the dawn of a new year in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Full of life, laughter, and soul, Buenos Aires is the cultural capital of Argentina and arguably the entire continent. Its nickname as “The Paris of South America” draws from its cosmopolitan air, charming wide avenues with sidewalk hangouts, and chic population. It’s the ideal place to spend the end of the year surrounded by fashion and style. But to party where the Argentines are on New Year’s Eve, you’ll have to take a short trip to one of the nearby beaches, particularly Punta del Este. Dress in your fanciest, drink, and dance at some of the glitziest clubs and bars in the area. Learn to dance the tango, a must-do on any Argentina trip, and then spend the rest of the first day of the new year resting as the locals do.

Although a great milestone for celebrating the holidays, Machu Picchu is great any time of the year.

Machu Picchu, Peru

This may seem a most unconventional location for spending your holidays, but that’s exactly what makes it so amazing! Machu Picchu is great at any time of the year, but what better place to spend Christmas and ring in the new year than by gazing at and wandering the grounds of the more than 600-year-old Inca citadel? The archeological site is one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, and as such, regularly tops lists for being the ultimate travel destination. It will likely give you the inspirational boost you might be looking for! If seeing the ruins isn’t enough for you, then also look into climbing Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak that lurks in the background of most Machu Picchu photographs. However, you probably won’t be the only ones hoping to get here during the holidays, so make sure to book your Machu Picchu travel packages as soon as possible in order to snag a ticket.

The massive fireworks display of Valparaiso, a colorful Chilean town along the Pacific coast, makes it the ultimate celebration spot.

Valparaiso, Chile

Although the capital city, Santiago, might be your first stop in Chile, the real place to be for Christmas is Valparaiso just 1.5 hours by vehicle. On New Year’s Eve, the streets of Valparaiso come alive with a major carnival and spectacular, out-of-this-world fireworks display, guaranteed to add some “oohs” and “ahhs” to your Chile vacation. Almost a million audience members have been known to come out to see the presentation, so get there early if you want to find a good spot to watch the show. The next day as you are regaining your energy, relax on the hot beaches and go for a dip in the Pacific Ocean.

Machu Picchu built by the mighty Inca Empire has stood for over 600 years in the Peruvian Andes and probably won’t be going anywhere soon, but we can't say the same for this flight sale!

We don’t know about you, but we’re already thinking ahead in order to make our travel resolutions become realities in the upcoming new year. To help you get one giant leap further in the vacation planning process, we’re excited to announce that LAN Airlines, South America’s most premier, is hosting a massive flight sale!

Call it what you will, perhaps an early holiday present from the travel gods, but this promotion is truly something to be excited about. For the next 2 weeks only, flights originating in USA cities such as Miami, New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco to all the major South American countries we serve including Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Ecuador are up to 50% off.

Start your 2012 with some adventure and make your way to South America by taking advantage of LAN Airlines’ most recent flight sale.

And there’s no better time than now to finally go on that South America trip you’ve always talked about. The Amazon Rainforest which spans over 40% of the continent, and the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls which stretches across the border of both Argentina and Brazil have both recently been named as 2 of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The iconic white Christ the Redeemer statue hovering over all of Rio de Janeiro is proudly regarded as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Finally, the incredible Inca citadel of Machu Picchu high up in the Peruvian Andes has just surpassed the 100 year anniversary of its discovery. What more are you waiting for?

Be sure to book today (or at the very latest by December 12, 2011) and travel between March 1 and June 30, 2012 so that your unforgettable Machu Picchu vacation and relaxing Argentina holidays can help you start 2012 on the right wandering foot. Contact us to see how Latin America For Less can help you take full advantage of this promotion. Email us directly at travel@peruforless.com to speak to one of our expert travel advisors and let us know what you’re seeking for your perfect South America vacation!

Float down the Amazon River for 3 or 4 days from Yurimaguas to Iquitos, Peru to see the rainforest from a whole new angle.

Peru: Yurimaguas to Iquitos – Iquitos is the world’s largest city reachable only by air or water, so why not indulge yourself with the latter option for a more relaxing Amazon vacation? For typically 3 to 4 days, enjoy the sights of flora and fauna along the Amazon riverbanks and the edge of the Pacaya-Samiria National Park as you float from Yurimaguas to the most elusive city in Peru. Be sure to bring along your own hammock so you have your own space to laze around in the afternoons and sleep at night. Also, keep an eye out for the new government-proposed promotional touristic circuit that may include the unparalleled Madre de Dios River as the link between the Peruvian Amazon’s 5 regions, making it easier than ever before to embark on a well-rounded Peru vacation.

Be sure to bring your own hammock for relaxation and sleep.

Brazil: Belém to Manaus – Manaus is the capital of the Amazonas state in Brazil, the South American country which hosts the largest share of the rainforest. On your next trip to Brazil, don’t merely fly into Manaus; earn your visit by boating there over a period of 5 days from the eastern city of Belém. As you sail westward, you will be blessed with the sights and sounds of the Amazon Rainforest all the while with comforts such as air conditioning. A worthy Amazon town to stop in along the way is the charming Santarem and its traditional market.

Sail down the Amazon River in Ecuador and visit the breathtaking Yasuní National Park along the way.

Ecuador: Quito to Coca – This 4 or 5 day excursion down the Napo River is popular because it conveniently starts from the country’s capital city. A highlight is a visit to the immense Yasuní National Park, Ecuador’s largest protected area and a place overflowing with exotic plants and animals, earning it a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve honor. Travelers will also get a chance to see a parrot clay lick, engage in birdwatching, and glimpse into the traditional daily lifestyles of the native villagers whose ancestors have lived on the riverbanks for centuries. If you are looking for a peaceful Ecuador holiday, this might be your perfect option because compared to its neighbors, the Ecuadorian rainforest is one of the lesser visited and most free from crowds!

Red is for the sultry details of tango in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Red is for… the Argentine tango
There is no image that comes clearer to mind upon thought of an Argentina trip than the tango. The energetic but sultry dance was born and fostered in the fringe communities of the country’s magnificent capital, Buenos Aires, and its artistic influence has since spread across the world through all social levels. The moves are fast paced and the dancers’ attitudes are evocative, enchanting every audience member with the dance’s brash sensuality. Whether you choose to experience the heart of tango along La Boca, Buenos Aires’s old port, or in an unmarked milonga venue, you won’t soon forget the blurred whirl of the female’s classic red dress, shoes, and lipstick detail as she plays with her partner on the dance floor.

Orange is for the sweet sun setting on the landscape of the Atacama Desert in Chile.

Orange is for… sunset in the Atacama Desert of Chile
If there was ever a place to test your feeling of mortality, it would be the Atacama Desert of northern Chile. This is the driest place on earth with absolutely no record of any rain since recordkeeping began more than 500 years ago. Standing in the middle of this vast desert composed of salt basins, sand, and the occasional hardy vegetation, you’ll want to clutch your water bottle tightly with newfound appreciation for every drop. This otherworldly landscape includes the dramatic Moon Valley and its stunning natural formations that champion out of the barren land around it. At sunset, however, you will forget for a moment the desert’s forsaking circumstance as the orange of the sky enhances every pore of the rocky surface, seeming as if existence itself is going to sleep for the night.

Yellow is for the glorious rays of the Costa Rican sun that blesses the entire country.

Yellow is for… the brilliant sunrays of Costa Rica
The sun defines Costa Rica. Without it, the paradise of tropical beaches would lose their essence, the mist of the jungles would linger less mystifyingly, and the massive volcanoes dotting the land would have less aesthetic faces to show throughout the passage of a day. Thankfully, the brilliant yellow rays persist, helping to showcase the country in all its glory. Whether you wish to kayak in one of Costa Rica’s many rapids, trek the impressive Arenal Volcano, party up in the capital of San José, or discover the unique microclimate of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the feel and illumination of the sun and its cycles will mark your Costa Rica holiday memories.

Green is for the lush natural wonders of the Pantanal wetlands in Brazil.

Green is for… the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil
A more obvious green point would be the Amazon Rainforest that covers most of South America, but the less frequented freshwater Brazilian Pantanal has well earned its reputation as well. Located in the southwestern state of Mato Grosso do Sol, the large reserve continues to spread into Bolivia and Paraguay as well. The wetland foliage’s gradient of green hues is beautiful to behold, and a boat excursion as part of your Brazil vacation package will take you on the crisp waters for an even more intimate exploration of the Pantanal. Delight in the exotic animals that hide in the verdant foliage and perhaps even spot a jaguar!

Blue is for the stark ripples and reflections of Lake Titicaca in Peru.

Blue is for… the waters of Lake Titicaca in Peru
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigatable lake in the world, can be approached from the Bolivian side as well, but the Puno gateway in Peru remains the more popular access point. From Puno, meander along the waterside, or take a boat tour to one of the reed islands such as Amantaní and Taquile where some traditional families still call home. A most spectacular time to see the lake is during the afternoon barrage of sunlight when the blues of the serene ripples shine brightest.

Purple is for the deep but light chicha morada juice so ubiquitously found throughout Lima, Peru.

Purple is for… chicha morada in Lima, Peru
Lima was once the capital of the Spanish empire in South America and it continues to stand today as a living reminder of colonial history as well as catalyst of contemporary culture. One new reputation the Peruvian metropolis has enjoyed is its status as the gastronomic capital of the Americas. From intimidating platters of ceviche (the national dish of raw seafood marinated in lime juice and spices) to the succulent sandwiches found streetside, dining in Lima is nothing short of an adventure in and of itself. In the end, wash it all down with a chilled glass of dark purple chicha morada, a non-alcoholic corn drink that dates to eras predating even the legendary Inca Empire. Cheers!

Black is for the rich, sleek skin of the sea lions that call the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador their home.

Black is for… the smooth skin of the Galapagos sea lions of Ecuador
To spice up your Ecuador travel plans, fly out to the Galapagos Islands to feel as if you’re an explorer of the old days. As you embark on your Galapagos cruise, admire the vast diversity of wildlife that populate this remote archipelagos, which includes but by no means is limited to its iconic sea lions, ancient sea turtles, marine iguanas, lava lizards, penguins, various colored boobies, and creatures deep underwater such as sharks, rays, dolphins, eels, and more. Finally, of course, you will be able to watch the local finches flit back and forth, the very birds who helped to inspire Charles Darwin and the development of his theory of evolution.

White is for the pristine emptiness of the vast Salar de Uyuni salt lake of Bolivia.

White is for… the Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia
Within Bolivia’s quieter personality lies the conspicuous Salar de Uyuni salt flat, a must-see destination for any Bolivia tour or South America trip. It is the largest of its kind on earth, and the panoramas here will be unlike anything you have ever seen before. A driving expedition will take you into the core of the 4,085-square-mile salt lake where the visage of this alien landscape seemingly extends endlessly into infinity. After a rain, Uyuni becomes the grandest natural mirror in existence when the reflected sky fuses seamlessly with the horizon and the terrain. If you are lucky and come in the right season on your Bolivia vacation, you might even get to see the local flamingoes that breed in this surreal plain.

The supposed English dead witch and vampire, Sarah Roberts, hasn’t come back to Pisco in almost 90 years but who knows what her agenda is?

1. Pisco, Peru and the Bride of Dracula
Pisco, a small town near the wildlife hub of Paracas and just a few hours south of Lima, the country’s brazen capital, is known for being the motherland of Peru’s national liquor of the same name. For all of the area’s popular and picturesque vineyards and charming weekend resorts for the city’s escapees, who knew Pisco holds such a chilling myth in its history? According to legend, an English woman by the name of Sarah Roberts finally found her resting place in Peru in 1913 after no other location on earth would accept her grave after being charged as a witch, vampire, and murderer. She was also allegedly one of Dracula’s three wives! Before being buried alive, Sarah swore she would rise and take vengeance in 80 years, but when 1993 rolled around, disappointingly out of the ordinary came about in Pisco. However, a deadly earthquake shook the town in 2007 and her grave was one of the only tombs left untouched by Mother Nature herself. As well, citizens have claimed to see a ghostly woman wander along the town’s dusty streets. So whether you go to Pisco for the drink or the story on your next Peru holiday, your heart may just race a little bit!

A Brazilian Amazon sunset is gorgeous, but beware of the encantado shapeshifter that stalks its banks at night!

2. Brazil’s Amazon River and its Shapeshifting Monster
A visit to the Amazon Rainforest, particularly on a trip to Brazil where it is mostly concentrated, is often the trip of a lifetime. Visitors get to take a leisurely cruise down the mighty Amazon River, learn about the ancient tribes that have called the region their home for centuries, stay in an alternative jungle lodge to be serenaded to sleep at night by exotic birds, and perhaps even catch glimpses of some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife in their natural habitats. However, one creature you won’t want to see is the mythical encantado. This mysterious monster supposedly lives deep within the Amazon’s waters and takes the shape of delightful dolphins or sea snakes during sunlight hours. However, at night, they morph into seductive, sensual, and deceivingly enchanting humanlike figures with such superior beauty or musical ability that others can’t help but be attracted to them. Once bewitched, the encantado will kidnap and torture its human prey, causing exceptional insanity, illness, and death. Therefore, while an evening stroll along the riverbanks might sound dreamy on your Brazilian Amazon vacation, be wary of the terrifying shapeshifters that could hypnotize you to a point of no return!

The undisturbed beauty of Chile’s northern landscape is rewarding but also holds scary gems like the forsaken cemetery of La Noria.

3. La Noria, Chile and the Ghost Town’s Population Left for Dead
Chile is particularly known for its Andean wonders and sparkling, icy expanses of Patagonia. But at the heart of the middle of nowhere in Chile’s northern region, adrenaline seekers can find La Noria, practically the definition of scary. The town was once a booming mining town, but it has since been abandoned by its founders and workers. All that is left is the massive decrepit cemetery overrun by ghosts. That’s right, Chileans believe the area of countless open graves and exposed skeletal remains is haunted by the spirits who never got to leave for a better place. Residents of Iquique, the closest town of note, effectively refuse to enter the grounds of the neglected ghost town. If you’re looking for a place to shock up your Chile trip, then the horrifying graveyard of La Noria will certainly leave a memorable mark on your South America adventures.