Central and South America are full of amazing places to explore—lush rainforests, desert landscapes, mountains, waterfalls, and vibrant cities. From hidden beaches to cultural hubs, 2026 offers plenty of new experiences for travelers. Here’s a simple guide to the top destinations:
- Asunción, Paraguay
- Why go: Growing city with new restaurants, hotels, and cultural spots.
- Highlights: La Cuadrita dining complex, new boutique hotels, museums, and Guaraní culture.
- Travel tip: Fly via Panama City, Lima, or Bogotá. No US visa required until 2027.
- Chiriquí Province, Panama
- Why go: Castaway-style beaches, marine parks, and eco-resorts.
- Highlights: Isla Palenque, whale watching, cloud forest hikes, luxury eco-stays.
- Travel tip: Arrive via Enrique Malek Airport; new high-speed railway coming in 2026.
- Costa Rica’s South Pacific Coast
- Why go: Rainforest adventures and eco-lodges.
- Highlights: Corcovado National Park, Uvita, Tibo treehouse bungalows, whale watching.
- Travel tip: Best from December to April for dry season; fly to Juan Santamaría Airport.
- Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
- Why go: Pristine beaches and marine life.
- Highlights: Snorkeling, diving, spinner dolphins, and eco-friendly stays.
- Travel tip: Fly via São Paulo; visit August to January for best weather.
- Medellín, Colombia
- Why go: City with great food, nightlife, and urban innovation.
- Highlights: Wake Hotel with multiple restaurants, Test Kitchen Lab, cultural events.
- Travel tip: Fly direct from Miami, New York, Houston, or Madrid; best season from December to March.
- Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Why go: culinary culture, art, and historic cities.
- Highlights: Inhotim Museum, Savassi district bars, Galeria Ficus, contemporary art scene.
- Travel tip: Fly to Belo Horizonte, rent a car to explore the region.
- Northern Chilean Patagonia
- Why go: Green Patagonia, lodges, and adventure.
- Highlights: Reñihué fjord, Puelo River, Tawa Refugio del Puelo, adventure and wellness experiences.
- Travel tip: Fly to Santiago, then El Tepual Airport; visit November to March.
- Potosí, Bolivia
- Why go: Otherworldly landscapes and luxury lodges.
- Highlights: Uyuni Salt Flats, Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve, luxury tours.
- Travel tip: Best February to May; fly to Uyuni or La Paz.
- Santiago, Chile
- Why go: Modern markets, sustainable design, and cool bars.
- Highlights: Mercado Urbano Tobalaba, AC Kitchen, Siam Thai, vibrant food scene.
- Travel tip: Visit September–November or March–May; direct flights from the US.
- TinajaniCanyon, Peru
- Why go: Red rock canyons and luxury safari-style camp.
- Highlights: Tented camp with alpaca blankets, Andean landscapes, pre-Inca rock formations.
- Travel tip: Fly to Juliaca or Puno; visit May to October for golden landscapes.
These destinations offer a mix of nature, adventure, culture, and luxury for travelers looking to explore Central & South America in 2026.