With such incredible natural diversity, travelers in Peru have the option to see everything from the breathtaking Andes, the adventurous amazon, a wealth of historical sites, or my personal favorite – the gorgeous coast. In recent years, more and more visitors are discovering the beauty and relaxation that the Peruvian coast has to offer. The following are a few favorite spots and my own personal Peru vacation memories from traveling along the stunning coast.

From North to South:

Zorritos

Visitors can get to the peaceful coastal town of Zorritos by way of Tumbes which is just 35km north on the Pan-American Highway. Although somewhat narrow beside the highway, the beach is quite beautiful with white sand and quaint boutique hotels along the waterfront. The town itself is extremely small and if you blink, you might just miss it as you drive by. We frequented some fantastic seafood restaurants here and spent several days enjoying the peace and quiet of the sleepy fishing village. A highlight in our stay was exploring the nearby Natural Sanctuary of Mangroves in Tumbes. About an hour drive from Zorritos, an inexpensively hired boat took us around the sanctuary where we snapped photos of thousands of birds, crocodiles in their protected habitat on the Isla de Aves, and had lunch on a isolated little island.

Punta Sal

Traveling further south on the Pan-American you’ll run into the winding bay of Punta Sal. Yet another friendly tranquil fishing village, Punta Sal boasts rocky outcrops and crystal clear warm waters. The beach is expansive and since the surf is not ideal in this area, swimmers have open waters all to themselves. Numerous hotels and a couple larger resorts dot the shore. The actual town itself is not directly on the Pan-American so things are quieter here and pedestrian friendly. After several days of lounging on the beach intermingled with the occasional whale spotting, we forced ourselves to move on and continue south.

Mancora

Although similarly located directly off of the Pan-American Highway, Mancora is quite different from its northern neighbors. This quaint little tourist town draws a lively crowd and offers great surfing. At night Mancora comes alive with several beach bars and dancing hot spots. We savored the beach during the quiet afternoon hours sipping a cold drink and waiting for sunset. A little ways from Mancora, but certainly worth a visit, are the two towns of Cabo Blanco and Lobitos. Cabo Blanco is somewhat difficult to get to but unique for its peaceful beauty and history. The town is world renowned for fishing as well being the location where Ernest Hemingway wrote one of his most famous novels, “The Old Man and the Sea.” The isolated Lobitos is accessible by way of Talara and most simply described – a surfer’s paradise.

Trujillo/Huanchaco

Continuing south you will eventually come to Trujillo and the neighboring surf and fishing village of Haunchaco. Trujillo is quite large and has a great colorful Plaza de Armas and several nearby fascinating historical archaeological sites. In Huanchaco we enjoyed watching experienced surfers take advantage of big waves and fishermen along the shore making traditional reed boats by hand.

Lima

It’s impossible to mention the Peruvian coast without saying something about Lima. Although we’re currently in the middle of winter here in Lima with constant cloud cover, the coast in the city with its giant cliffs is still breathtaking. Several spots from Miraflores to Barranco offer great access to surfing, dining, and ideal views of the many paragliders floating off of the cliffs.

Paracas

Continuing down past Lima several hours and you’ll find yourself in Paracas. A lively little town on the coast, Paracas is quickly gaining notoriety for its resorts, and easy access to all kinds of adventurous activities. Visitors can spend time tasting traditional pisco (a Peruvian brandy made throughout the region), racing around the desert in sand dune buggies, or hopping on daily boats heading out to the Islas Ballestas. A personal favorite of mine is the trip out to the Islas along with a quick stop at the National Reserve of Paracas both having abundant wildlife.

If you’re interested in learning more about travel options to the Peruvian Coast, contact one of our expert travel advisors!

Just like most countries in the world, the majority of countries in Latin America require travelers to have a passport valid up until at least 6 months after they enter the country. So before you even start booking your trip to South America, make sure you have a passport and that it is valid for this duration of time. It can take up to 6 weeks to get a new passport, so don’t wait until the last minute (although there are some emergency procedures for specific cases).

Now, for country specific regulations:

Peru

Nationals of the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union do not need a visa to visit Peru. Touristic stays of up to 183 days are allowed in Peru. You will generally be given a 90-day stamp upon arrival at the international airport, but if you wish to stay longer and travel in the country, you can just ask the immigration officer for a 6-month stamp.

The airport in Lima—so far the only international airport in Peru—charges an international tax of approximately $30 USD upon departure from the country. However, most international airlines now include this fee in the flight ticket, but if it is not included when you purchase your flight, you’ll be required to pay it before you leave.

Argentina

Nationals of the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union do not require a visa to visit Argentina, and touristic stays of up to 3 months are allowed in Argentina. Touristic stamps are valid for several entries in the country within their period of validity, making it easier to travel cross country on your Argentina vacation. But, be aware that all citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia will be charged a reciprocity fee upon entry in Argentina. As of 2011, the tax amounts to $100 USD for Australians, $70 USD for Canadians, and $140 USD for Americans.

Brazil

Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia must have a visa to visit Brazil. Make sure to contact the Brazilian embassy or consulate in your home country in order to obtain your visa prior to travel. Check out the list of Brazilian embassies and consulates in the world and find the one closest to your home. Procedures take approximately 2-3 weeks, so it is important to submit your visa application about 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date. But don’t do it too early either because your visa is only valid 90 days after its issuance.

US citizens need to fill in an e-application form, print it, and make an appointment with the Brazilian embassy using the online scheduling system. You’ll need to bring the form with a passport, picture, and travel documents. Find here the online application form for Brazil visas. Disregard the security warning that will pop up when you click on the link as this is a secure site and the error message only comes from the Brazil channel which is not automatically recognized by international internet browsers yet.

Nationals of the United States will need to pay a $140 USD reciprocity fee to enter Brazil; the fee is $65 USD for Canadians. Citizens of European Union countries are exempts from any visa requirements and entrance fees.

Chile

Nationals of the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union do not need a visa for touristic stays up to 3 months in Chile. However, if you are from the USA, Canada, or Australia, you will need to pay a reciprocity fee of respectively $131, $132, and $61 USD.

For more information about visa and passport requirements and to start planning your exciting trip to South America, contact one of our expert travel advisors.

Patagonia

Chile, Patagonia

Big. Cold. Majestic. It is difficult to describe, or understand, the mass wilderness of Patagonia without stepping foot on its tough tundra for yourself. This 260,000-square-mile region is split between Chile and Argentina, and each half has something special to offer. Trek-loving travelers will enjoy a trip to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world, or hiking across massive glaciers, such as the world famous Perito Moreno, in El Calafate, also in Argentina. For more Patagonian thrills, hop over the border to Chile to explore the Patagonia archipelago. This side is full of icy islands separated by sparklingly blue fjords. The reflections that bounce between the turquoise waters and the pearly, imposing glacier walls make you feel like you’re sailing inside a diamond. A trip to Torres del Paine, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, or a tour of Puerto Varas in the Lake District, are two great Chileans options.

The Amazon

Rainforests are home to 50% of the world’s wildlife, but only cover 2% of the earth’s surface. You don’t have to be a mathematician to realize this means rainforests tend to be packed with wildlife—in fact, 15% of our planet’s animals live in the Amazon. In Peru, the Amazon rainforest sprawls across 60% of the country’s landmass and houses an incredible array of creatures, from pink river dolphins to colorful macaws.

You can visit parts of the Amazon from Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and several other Latin American countries, but we’re partial to the Peruvian Amazon, particularly Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado.

Iquitos is a jungle settlement hidden away in the northern Peruvian rainforest, along the massive Amazon River. It is the largest mainland city in the world that can only be reached by air or boat. The main river and its numerous tributaries make Iquitos a great launching point for an Amazon cruise. And because waterways are the easiest way to navigate through the jungle, river cruises can take you to hidden indigenous villages, well-positioned jungle lodges, and virgin forests virtually untouched by man.

Another great Amazon vacation option is Puerto Maldonado, a frontier town in southeastern Peru. From this town, you can take a boat up the river to the famous Tambopata National Reserve, renowned for its large animal wildlife, including caimans and capybaras. This reserve is over 31,000-square miles and is home to numerous bird species—you are practically guaranteed to see several pairs of squawking macaws fly by overhead.

The Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Island penguin.

Six hundred miles off the Ecuadorian coastline, a group of over 40 islands and islets await the animal-loving tourist. The Galapagos Islands are known for their spectacular and fearless wildlife. The ability of visitors to see these animals up close in their natural habitats is the highlight of a Galapagos vacation. Isolation from the outside world has created unique traits in many of the Galapagos species, including large size and an indifference toward humans. Massive tortoises and iguanas abound, and bird lovers will be charmed by the numerous avian species, including the blue footed booby, waved albatross, and several types of penguins.

Don’t be a fool and contact one of our expert travel advisors now to start planning your amazing Latin America vacation.

It appears Kristina has a true natural eye for taking amazing photographs, as she says she has never taken any photography classes, and was only using a small digital camera when she took this magical picture of Mount Fitz Roy, in Argentina’s Patagonia.

Ever since she started traveling around the world, Kristina has always carried a camera with her to ensure that she brought back many photos from her trips. Although she enjoys taking pictures, and wishes to learn more about photography, Kristina reminds us, rightly, that it’s all about enjoying yourself: “I was camping there, and I had such a great time. This picture is more about the memories of these moments.”

Still, we asked her for tips on how to take a good photo. According to Kristina, the light is generally what makes all the difference, and you should always have your camera ready for the special moments when the sun’s rays hit just right. Landscapes are also generally easier to photograph than other things, Kristina says, and they can make the best pictures simply because they are so beautiful to begin with.

Since her trip to Argentina, Kristina has invested in a more professional camera, a reflex camera, and is thinking of taking classes to learn some techniques to take truly great pictures—although all of us at Latin America For Less think she’s already doing a fantastic job.

When asked how she manages to take such spectacular pictures, Kristina, very modestly, tells us: “I guess I was just lucky. It’s just such a beautiful place that it would be hard to take a bad picture.”

Patagonia, with its infinite glacial landscapes and majestic mountains covered with snow, is probably one of the most beautiful destinations in Latin America. It’s certainly Kristina’s favorite, as she has spent months traveling all over this region in Argentina. Trekking on gigantic glaciers, sailing across icy lakes, and hiking up dizzying mountains is an experience you are unlikely to ever forget, she says.

We couldn’t resist showing you one more of Kristina’s photos of this truly superb region. This photo, with the mountains silhouetted against a striking sky, is her favorite, and we hope it leaves you speechless with its beauty, just like it did for us.

To discover the magical landscapes of Argentina’s Patagonian region and practice your photography skills, contact Kristina or any of our other expert travel advisors and ask about a Patagonia tour.

Located a mere 450 miles (725 km) from the southern tip of the world, Eolo Lodge is a drop of refinement clinging to the wild, rugged steppe of Argentina’s Patagonia. The 17 room estancia-style lodge is fitted with a whitewashed exterior that matches the distant ice capped peaks, but blazes defiantly against the 9,885 acres (4,000 hectares) of burnished La Anita Valley landscape. Large windows offer astonishing views of the desolate landscape, but to truly appreciate the sweeping isolation, hop on a horse, gallop across the void and experience a real Patagonia travel adventure.

Argentina, El Calafate: Eolo

2. Peru, Puno: Casa Andina Isla Suasi

Isla Suasi, a private island ringed by the pristine waters of Lake Titicaca, tempts visitors with its stunning scenery, lulling isolation, and five star eco-resort. Casa Andina Private Collection Isla Suasi, the only accommodation on this serene island, is an indulgent treat of rustic luxury, outdoor adventure, and culinary delight. Its 24 rooms contain cloud-like beds, wood burning fireplaces, and panoramic lake views. Cozy up under the covers, meanderer the cobblestone courtyards, or explore the rugged island outskirts; wherever you go, the view will follow. Explore this spectacular region in style on your Lake Titicaca tour.

Peru, Puno: Casa Andina Isla Suasi

3. Chile, San Pedro de Atacama: Alto Atacama Desert Lodge

The Atacama Desert is the driest place on earth, but don’t let that stop you from visiting Alto Atacama Desert Lodge, because its barren, rain-deprived landscape is one of the most stunning and humbling places in the world. The Lodge is so skillfully designed that it seems to merge with the rust-colored Salt Mountain Range, concealing the hotel’s interior modern luxury.

Chile, San Pedro de Atacama: Alto Atacama Lodge

4. Ecuador, Baños: Luna Runtun

No place is better for soaking up the scenery in Baños, Ecuador, than Hotel Luna Runtun. The picturesque mountaintop cottage complex faces the mighty Tungurahua Volcano and the verdant Llanganates National Park. Lavish pools and spas carved into the cliff overlook the town below, creating the elevated aura of a Mount Olympus playground with Greek god guests lounging in luxury. Enhance your Ecuador vacation with a stay at this excellent hotel.

Ecuador, Baños: Luna Runtun

5. Brazil, Ilha Grande: Pousada Naturalia

Surrounded by lush rainforest and lapping azul waters, a stay at Pousada Naturalia Hotel is like accepting a hug from Mother Nature. Bask on your balcony or lounge in your hammock and remind yourself that the tranquil island’s scenery isn’t a postcard, it’s real.

Brazil, Ilha Grande: Pousada Naturalia

6. Peru, Machu Picchu: Sanctuary Lodge

Machu Picchu. Need we say more? One of the 7 New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is the most spectacular historical destination in South America. Secluded and separated from modern development by a laborious trek and imposing mountain peaks, the site remains as impressive now as it was decades ago. Only one hotel, the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, neighbors the citadel. Several rooms have mountain views and show a sliver of the site, but the real attraction is the ability to linger at the ruins before, and long after, everyone else is gone.

Peru, Machu Picchu: Sanctuary Lodge

7. Costa Rica, Arenal: Arenal Observatory Lodge

Experience a bedroom eruption like none other at Arenal Observatory Lodge, one of the most luxurious Arenal hotels. Here guests can lounge in bed and admire the active Arenal Volcano, just two miles from the hotel, as it seeps glowing lava and puffs black smoke.  Now that’s hot.

Costa Rica, Arenal: Arenal Observatory Lodge

8. Peru, Puno: Libertador Lake Titicaca

Watch the sun creep over the horizon and crawl across the calm waters of the highest navigable lake in the world, turning the already vibrantly-colored waters into a sparkling sapphire sea. Hotel Libertador rests on the shore of Isla Esteves on Lake Titicaca. Its 123 rooms are all luxurious with elegant décor, but no man-made design can compare to the natural display flaunted just outside the panoramic windows.

Peru, Puno: Libertador Lake Titicaca

9. Argentina, Iguazú Falls: Sheraton

Guests at the Sheraton Iguazú Resort can marvel at the mighty Iguazú Falls, hear its roaring torrent, and almost taste the spray, all without leaving their room. Tucked inside the Iguazú National Park, this large and luxurious hotel is only a mile from the waterfalls and walking distance from all of the park’s exciting attractions.

Argentina, Iguazú Falls: Sheraton

10. Peru, Colca Canyon: Colca Lodge

At Colca Lodge, a glance out your window is a time machine back to ancient times. Situated in a river valley ringed by pre-Inca agricultural terraces, this luxurious nature-inspired lodge is an ideal place to experience an exciting Colca Canyon tour. Relax in natural hot springs and admire how the hotel’s adobe walls, thatched roofs, and stone pathways harmonize with the agrarian landscape.

Peru, Colca Canyon: Colca Lodge

For help planning a Latin America vacation to one of these spectacular locations, contact a Latin America For Less travel advisor.

The impressive Iguazu Falls

The Foz do Iguaçu, or Iguazu Falls, is a force of nature. The 275 separate cascades make up a thunderous flow over basalt rock which gushes over 250 feet down, hence the meaning of “Iguazu” which means “big water” in Guarani, the regional indigenous language. At the Devil’s Throat, the largest waterfall in the circuit, water plunges over a U-shaped cataract that is 490 by 2300 feet. Spectators can get close enough to be surrounded by 260° of water. Numerous catwalks allow visitors to view and experience Iguazu Falls from many angles. Another possibility for prime viewing capabilities is a helicopter tour around the falls.

The waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest and a reddish soil that contrasts with the green canopy. The Parque Nacional Foz do Iguaçu is well worth exploring and there are many peaceful hikes where you will have the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Keep your eyes open for brown capuchin monkeys and colorful birds such as toucans. The town offers plenty to do and has a large choice of hotels, restaurants, and shops. This UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site lies on the border between Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay so while visiting the falls you can easily make your way into three South American countries and have even more to brag to your friends and family about.

Another South American escapade to be proud of is a trip to breathtaking Easter Island. Nearly 2,500 miles west of Chile’s coast, it is one of the world’s most famous archeological sites bound to leave travelers amazed. Easter Island is a nature and culture lover’s dream getaway in the Pacific Ocean.

The mystical moai statues

One of the most isolated places on earth just got easier to travel to. The mystery of Easter Island and its indigenous inhabitants, the Rapa Nui, are intriguing to scientists and travelers alike. This triangular island is full of an extraordinary collection of archaeological wonders, including the iconic moai. These statutes form one of Rapa Nui’s most enduring images. These famous moai sculptures may be what first come to mind when picturing Easter Island, but the island has many other worthwhile attractions. On Easter Island you will be amazed by the 20,000 archeological sites, rich culture, two volcanoes, scuba diving, and white sand beaches.

You can now stand in the mysterious presence of Easter Island and be splashed by Iguazu Falls after a simple flight from the United States.

For more information on Brazil and Chile vacations, contact one of our travel advisors who can help you customize your next big adventure.

The mystical Basilica Nuestra Senora del Rosario de Santa Agua

The town’s gothic style basilica is dedicated to the Virgin, believed to have performed numerous miracles, rescuing people from volcanic eruptions, car crashes and falls among others. Travelers can even see a pile of canes and crutches in the church attesting to the miracles that have taken place here. Locals flock here year-round to pay their respects and touch some of the holy water flowing from the virgin’s statue, but international travelers come looking for a different kind of healing.

Sprinkled throughout the town are numerous natural baths that welcome travelers from all over South America and abroad, as well as its local inhabitants. It’s not uncommon to see Ecuadorian families strolling along in flip flops and bathing suits, colorful towels hung over sun kissed shoulders as they head to soak in the outdoor pools. The most famous and popular are the Baños de la Virgen, open until late in the evening, where bathers can soak in the steaming waters under a star strewn Andean sky.

The water is believed to have medicinal properties and attracts people hoping to find relief for their various ailments. Whether you believe in the water’s healing capabilities or not, the baths are still undoubtedly the perfect way to relax sore muscles. And most likely, your muscles will be sore if you decide to partake in any one of the many activities available in Baños.

Climb up the volcano to see lava flows, bike down the highway of waterfalls to Puyo, a jungle town 34 miles east, or horseback ride through the verdant greenery in the morning before river rafting along the Pastaza River in the afternoon. If you just want to relax, head to the countless spas in town for a massage, or body treatment, after bathing in the hot springs.

The small streets of the town itself are full of small family-owned restaurants and guesthouses, crowded with the international traveler interested in trying some of the finest food in the country. Ecuador isn’t so famous for its cuisine and, for a small town, Baños has an impressive array of dining options. Travelers weary of the standard chicken and rice dish will delight in the variety of international cuisine in Baños, including Italian, Thai, Mediterranean, Swiss, and German.

For a real treat, meander down to the main street in town, eyeing vast tables stacked with candy sweet enough to give your dentist a little additional work.  You will notice melcocheros (toffee makers) in doorways, their arms working overtime to stretch and beat taffy by hand.  Each doorway has a wooden peg that the candy makers use to wrap the melcocha around before stretching it back and wrapping it again.  Any good melcochero will give you a free taste of the warm sugary taffy, and most people end up buying a square or two.

On weekends, a small caterpillar train blasting music carries families with young children through the streets, while the numerous bars and peñas (traditional live music venues) in town provide the setting for a rowdy night.  The unique blend of lively nightlife, excellent food, and proximity to endless sports activities, volcanoes, and thermal baths make Banos a special place.  Plan for a weekend trip, but don’t be surprised if you end up staying a week.

For more information about Baños and Ecuador travel opportunities, contact a Peru For Less travel advisor.

Easter Island statues, or moais, that you can see up close on an incredible Easter Island tour.

The Rapi Nui islanders competed in a duathlon, swimming to the islet of Motu Nui and then running to Orongo, to bring back the first Sooty Tern egg. The first to bring the prize to the Orongo altar became the birdman for the year.

Easter Island was not thus named because of this elaborate egg hunt. The island, known to locals as Rapa Nui or Big Rapa, was so dubbed because the Dutch explorer, Jacob Roggeveen, landed on the island on Easter Sunday in 1722.

3700 km (2300 miles) off the coast of Chile, Easter Island was well-isolated from the mainland until the mid-1800s. Besides the Orongo Birdman ceremonial center, a number of fascinating landmarks tell of an utterly mysterious Pacific Islander culture.

The moais statues of Easter Island have become synonymous with mystery. These iconic, enigmatic statues stand guard in the Rano Raraku Quarry. There are over 300 of these monoliths, and some are in various stages of construction. One moai is over 70 feet tall. If you explore the Rano Raraku quarry, make sure to check out the crouching Tukuturi moai.

On an Easter Island tour, the sights of Easter Island will put you in a spell. Tour Hanga Roa, where you will see plenty of moais. Then head over to the eastern part of the island to see Ahu Tahai, where the moais bases were built to support the statues.

Also make sure to see Ahu Akahanga and Ahu Vaihu, where moais lie prone like toppled dominoes, a testament to the colonization that precipitated the downfall of this fascinating culture.

Another great activity to do on an Easter Island tour is scuba dive around Motu Nui, the legendary islet off the coast of Easter Island that the birdmen once swam to in search of the prized Sooty Tern eggs. Motu Nui boasts terrific snorkeling and scuba diving. The waters are clear and gentle. From the islet, you can glance back at the absolutely stunning edge of the Rano Kau crater.

February is a great time to visit Easter Island, as the ten day festival of Tapati Rapa Nui is celebrated in February. The peak season is January to March. Coldest months are July and August, but if you plan your Easter Island tour during this time, you will have the island nearly to yourself.

A spectacular solar eclipse is due to take place on Easter Island on July 11. Travelers wanting to witness this astonishing sight should explore Chile For Less’ special travel deal, Witness the Black Sunset.