Choose from 1,039 Fun Things to Do in Central And South America
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Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos)
At the base of the imposing San Felipe Castle, Cartagena’s Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos) is, you guessed it, a giant sculpture of a pair of old boots. A popular spot for a selfie or ten, the monument was created by the sculptor Hector Lombana as a reference to the popular poem, “Mi Ciudad Nativa,” by local poet, and one of South America’s most respected writers, Luis Carlos López.
In the final line, López compares the love and sense of comfort he feels for his hometown of Cartagena to that which he feels for a pair of worn-in, but familiar and comfortable shoes. And on a plaque in front of the famous sculpture, you can read the whole poem in full.
Practical Info
To see the Old Shoes Monument, head to San Felipe Castle on the hill of San Lázaro along Avenida Arevalo. The castle itself is open from 8am to 6pm every day, and entry for adults costs COP $8,000.
Address: Calle 31, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia, Colombia
Hours: Daily 8am-6pm
Admission: Adults: COP$8000
From $ 26
La Campana National Park (Parque Nacional La Campana)
Home to some of the last remaining forests of the endangered Chilean Wine Palm, La Campana became a national park in 1967 and contains over 17,000 acres of settlement ruins, hiking trails, and exotic wildlife.
Naturalist and explorer Charles Darwin himself paid the spot a visit in 1834, hiking to the top of the scenic hill that gave the park its name. With various types of hawks, alligators, eagles, snakes, owls, and giant frogs, it´s no wonder UNESCO has recognized the area as a Biosphere Reserve for its high number of unique species.
Those wanting to recreate Darwin's journey can take the El Andinista Trail (Sendero El Andinista), which lasts the average hiker around five hours and is quite a difficult climb. Enthusiasts will be rewarded at the summit by a plaque commemorating Darwin's accomplishment and, more importantly, a panoramic view of the Andes and surrounding coastal valleys – even a sliver of the Pacific Ocean, if the day is particularly clear. Just don´t forget to register at the checkpoint for more detailed advice and important guidelines to follow while trekking.
Naturalist and explorer Charles Darwin himself paid the spot a visit in 1834, hiking to the top of the scenic hill that gave the park its name. With various types of hawks, alligators, eagles, snakes, owls, and giant frogs, it´s no wonder UNESCO has recognized the area as a Biosphere Reserve for its high number of unique species.
Those wanting to recreate Darwin's journey can take the El Andinista Trail (Sendero El Andinista), which lasts the average hiker around five hours and is quite a difficult climb. Enthusiasts will be rewarded at the summit by a plaque commemorating Darwin's accomplishment and, more importantly, a panoramic view of the Andes and surrounding coastal valleys – even a sliver of the Pacific Ocean, if the day is particularly clear. Just don´t forget to register at the checkpoint for more detailed advice and important guidelines to follow while trekking.
Address: Chile
From $ 220
Historic Quarter of the Seaport City of Valparaíso
UNESCO declared the historic part of Valparaíso a world heritage site in 2003, and when you get here, you won’t wonder why. It’s been called the Jewel of the Pacific, or Chile’s version of San Francisco, but there’s really no comparing it to anyplace you’ve ever been, and you’ll just have to come see it yourself.
The city is split into two main parts, the first of these being the “plan” or flat section, where you’ll find the port, the bus station, the market, and pleasant Muelle Barón (a pier) where you can sit and enjoy the view of the water. The second part, the more eye-catching bit, is the series of hills on which most of Porteños live. There are lively (and connected) Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, where there are cafés and restaurants and places to stay, and the Paseo Gervasoni where some of the best views are had. Of course, you could walk up the hills, or for about fifty cents (or less), take one of the acensores (as the funiculars are also called) that will take you up top. Getting down is easier, just walk toward the water.
Practical Info
Though you can take a driving tour of the city, it is best seen on foot, as many of the murals and brightly colored houses and staircases are best appreciated from street level. Wear sturdy shoes and treat yourself to a snack with a view when it’s time for a rest.
Address: Valparaiso, Chile
From $ 18
Old Prison of Ushuaia
The Old Prison of Ushuaia isn’t just a museum. It’s four walls hold the history of Ushuaia, as its inmates literally built the city streets and public buildings. It had Tierra del Fuego’s first printing press, telephone, and electricity, too.
For the most part, its inmates were a surly bunch, made up of serial offenders that Buenos Aires police wanted to ship out and never see again. There were also political prisoners, sent to the end of the world where their ideals would be ignored. But rumors also claim that Carlos Gardel – the most prominent voice in Tango – also spent a stretch in this bleak outpost.
Today, the Old Prison building houses several different museums, but two wings of the building are dedicated to the incarcerated history. One wing has been left as is, so it takes visitors into the past by showing both the living conditions and cramped quarters that found 800 prisoners living in 360 cells. The second wing of the prison museum houses restored furniture, mannequins, and stories of the inmates’ pasts.
The old prison building also houses the Maritime and Antarctic Museums, and the Maritime Art Gallery.
Practical Info
The old prison of Ushuaia is located at the intersection of Yaganes y Gobernador Paz. From April to October, it’s open 10AM to 8PM. From November to March, it’s open 9AM to 8PM. Admission currently costs $120 pesos for an individual or $250 pesos for a family, but includes access to the Maritime, Antarctic, and Old Prison Museums and art gallery.
Address: Yaganes y Gobernador Paz, Ushuaia, Argentina
Hours: April-Oct 10AM to 8PM
Nov-March 9AM to 8PM
Admission: $120 pesos
From $ 18
La Boca
Few places in Buenos Aires are photographed as frequently as Caminito Street. The main artery of the waterfront La Boca neighborhood is a jumble of old buildings, brightly painted facades, and street-side market stalls, with hawkers, buskers, and tango dancers adding to the atmosphere.
The Basics
Most Buenos Aires city tours stop at Caminito Street, and the buildings make a colorful backdrop for travel photos; look out for statues of Argentine political figures like Eva Perón and Che Guevara, and soccer hero Diego Maradona peeking out from doorways and balconies. Visitors can browse the street market, where stalls sell souvenirs and handicrafts; drink a yerba mate (tea) at one of the terrace cafés; or watch the street tango dancers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- La Boca is known as one of Buenos Aires’ less safe neighborhoods; it’s advisable to stick to the main tourist areas and take a taxi if you’re traveling at night.
- Tours of Caminito Street are often combined with other La Boca attractions, such as La Bombonera stadium.
- There are a number of bars, cafés, and restaurants along Caminito Street
- Caminito Street is wheelchair accessible, though it is mostly cobblestoned and uneven in places.
How to Get There
Caminito Street is located in the neighborhood of La Boca, just south of downtown Buenos Aires. There is no subway service to La Boca, but several buses run from downtown, stopping along the waterfront at the eastern end of Caminito. Alternatively, it’s a short taxi ride.
When to Get There
Caminito Street can get busy, especially during peak season. For crowd-free photos, arrive before 11am, as most tour buses arrive in late morning or early afternoon. Due to safety concerns, it’s best to avoid visiting at night.
The History of Caminito
Caminito means “little path.” This pedestrian area was first settled by Italian immigrants, who worked at the neighboring port. Their haphazardly built homes—known as conventillos—were constructed from corrugated metal and wood, and painted in bright colors using leftover paint from the ships. By the 1950s, the street had become popular with artists and tango dancers, and local artist Benito Quinquela Martín transformed many of the buildings with street art.
Address: Avenida Suarez, Buenos Aires C1059ABC, Argentina
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Mixco Viejo
Mixco Viejo is an archaeological site that dates back to the postclassic Mayan civilization. There are two areas with the name Mixco Viejo, as the former Chajoma Kaqchikel kingdom was mistakenly linked to the postclassic Poqomam capital as a result of confusion interpreting the colonial records. To properly distinguish between the two today, the former Poqomam capital is called Mixco Viejo (Chinaulta Viejo), while the Kaqchikel capital is known as Mixco Viejo (Jilotepeque Viejo).
Mixco Viejo (Jilotepeque Viejo) borders the departments of Quiche, Chimaltenango and Guatemala near the junction of the Motagua and Pixcaya rivers. It consists of 15 groups with over 120 major structures, including palaces, ball courts and temples.
Mixco Viejo’s population was believed to have been about 1,500 at one point. Evidence shows it was one of the few Maya cities inhabited and still functioning when the Spanish conquistadores arrived in Guatemala. Researchers believe the area got its start in the 12th or 13th century, and it’s possible that Mixco Viejo was an economic center for the surrounding valley. The nearby Motagua River was a commercial route for products during the pre-Hispanic area.
Practical Info
Mixco Viejo (Jilotepeque Viejo) is located about 30 miles from Guatemala City and can be reached via day trips from either Guatemala City or Antigua. Admission to Mixco Viejo is about $8, and the site is open daily from 8am to 4pm. Mixco Viejo suffered considerable damage during an earthquake in 1976, which resulted in the destruction of some restoration work.
Address: San Juan Sacatepequez, Guatemala
Hours: Daily 8am to 4pm
Admission: $8
From $ 100
La Candelaria (Historic Old Town)
And even today it is the cultural heart of modern Bogota’s slapdash modern sprawl: the graceful and carefully planned Spanish colonial city center, known as the Candelaria. The oldest part of the city is now the province of young artists and bohemian university students, whose skills in trippy graffiti and operating very hip indie businesses makes this one of Bogota’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
You might want to start your exploration at tiny Plazuela Del Chorro Del Quevedo, where this city was supposedly founded in 1537, by Spanish Conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada. (Of course it is much, much older; Jimenez merely renamed the ancient indigenous town of Bacata “Bogota.”) However, this plaza—now the epicenter of Bogota’s hipster scene, with plenty of tattoos, Chucks, handmade jewelry and fire dancers—doesn’t really get going until dusk. Be sure to stop into one of the cool little cafes for the Candelaria’s signature beverage, a traditional Andean canelazo, made with sugarcane liquor, cinnamon and panela sugar, served steaming hot for the chill altitude.
But begin instead at sprawling Plaza Bolivar, surrounded by picturesque streets lined with more tejas-topped adobes, interspersed with the city’s finest museums, coolest casas cultural, and most ornate churches. As you make your way to the most important museums close to bustling Parque Santander, be sure to check out the Emerald District (Carrera Jimenez between Calle 6 and 7), where Colombia’s signature stone can be had almost wholesale, if you’re sharp. Inexpensive eateries and artsy clubs are everywhere, but be aware that the neighborhood gets sketchy after hours; take cabs after 9pm or so.
If you’re staying in the Zona Rosa, be aware that you are a solid 45-minute, COP$10,000 (US$6) taxi ride from the Candelaria in traffic, and not all taxis are willing to make the journey—have your hotel call one ahead. TransMilenio buses make the run more quickly; get off at the Gold Museum station.
Address: From Carrera 4 to the Carrera 10 y and from Calle 4 to Calle 22, Bogotá, Cundinamarca, Colombia
From $ 10
Chorro el Macho Waterfall
One of the best attractions in Anton’s Valley (Valle de Antón) is the Chorro el Macho waterfall. This 280-foot (85-meter) waterfall is just a short way north of the town of La Mesa and is one of the most beautiful areas of the valley.
A pleasant half-hour walk through the rain forest on well-marked paths leads you to the waterfall. At the foot sits a large natural pool, and walking paths run through the area for exploration, with suspension bridges running over the river.
For the adventurous, there are also zip lines through the treetops that provide breathtaking aerial views of the Chorro el Macho waterfall. If visiting with a guide, they can point out local animals, birds and butterflies, as well as various points of interest. The falls are most spectacular in the wet season.
Practical Info
The falls are located less than two hours from Panama City, and bus routes run between the city and Anton’s Valley. The site is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission costs $3.50.
Address: Chorro el Macho Waterfall, Valle de Antón, Panama City, Panama
Hours: Daily
Admission: Admission is $3.50
From $ 125
La Basilica Church
The Basilica of the National Vow (in Spanish, La Basilica del Voto Nacional), often called La Basilica, is one of the most beautiful Roman Catholic churches in Quito. Set up on a hill and visible from almost anywhere in the city, it’s particularly striking after dark, when it is illuminated.
Construction began in 1883 on what became the largest neo-Gothic church in the Americas, measuring 459 feet (140 meters) long and 115 feet (35 meters) wide, and reaching a height of 98 feet (30 meters) in the nave. The two front towers stand 377 feet (115 meters) tall.
The neo-Gothic decoration has an interesting twist — it features gargoyles and ornaments that depict local animals such as armadillos, iguanas, pumas, monkeys, tortoises and condors. The abundant artwork also includes bronze statues, stained-glass windows and impressive stonework.
Get the best views by climbing to the top of the three towers, where you can see a large portion of Quito and the surrounding mountains. Walking from one tower to the next on wooden bridges and steep ladders adds to the thrill.
The church is technically unfinished, and local legend has it that when La Basilica is completed, the end of the world will come.
Practical Info
The church is located seven blocks north of Independence Square at the corner of Calle Venezuela in Old Town, Quito. It is open daily from 9am to 5pm. It costs $2 to visit the top of the towers.
Address: Calle Venezuela y Carchi, Quito, Ecuador
From $ 15
Hill of Glory (Cerro de la Gloria)
A 14-ton bronze national monument atop the steps of the Hill of Glory pays tribute to the Army of the Andres battle for liberation, which freed Argentina, Chile and Peru from Spanish rule in the early 19th century. Travelers can wander the crooked path through San Martin Park, past a Greek theater and soccer stadium, to this historic monument, which was designed by a Uruguayan artist and is a recognized part of the urban skyline.
Stones for this iconic memorial were trekked in from the Uspallata area of the Mendoza Mountains. Life-like images depicting struggles, victories and historic moments are etched into the sides of the Hill of Glory, but it’s the massive statues of brave soldiers perched atop the towering rocks that make this piece of public art so noteworthy.
Practical Info
Travelers must enter through San Martin Park—one of the city’s most famous green areas—in order to access the Hill of Glory.
Address: Cerro de la Gloria, Mendoza, Argentina
Hours: Daily
From $ 16
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Located four miles south from the shores of Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is the most visited snorkeling and diving area in Belize. Part of the Belize Barrier Reef, the reserve covers approximately three square miles and is divided into various zones according to marine habitat. The most popular zone is called Hol Chan or “small channel” in Maya -- a 30-foot deep “cut” in the reef where all sorts of marine life have now gathered in one area, making it one giant aquarium. The channel has beautiful live corals and an abundant variety of fish that includes angelfish, turtles, nurse sharks, hog fish, snappers and many other species.
The second most popular zone of the reserve is Shark Ray Alley, a shallower area where nurse sharks and stingrays are plentiful. Grass beds and mangrove areas make up the other zones of the reserve and require a more personalized expert guide -- and while less visited, these areas provide for unique spotting opportunities, including manatees. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is constantly patrolled and visitors are obligated by law to observe its rules, such as no touching or standing on corals. The reserve has an informative and worthwhile Visitors’ Center in town with clear displays of the various marine habitats in Belize.
The second most popular zone of the reserve is Shark Ray Alley, a shallower area where nurse sharks and stingrays are plentiful. Grass beds and mangrove areas make up the other zones of the reserve and require a more personalized expert guide -- and while less visited, these areas provide for unique spotting opportunities, including manatees. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is constantly patrolled and visitors are obligated by law to observe its rules, such as no touching or standing on corals. The reserve has an informative and worthwhile Visitors’ Center in town with clear displays of the various marine habitats in Belize.
Address: Ambergris Caye, Belize
Admission: BZ$20 or US$10
From $ 60
La Bombonera Stadium
The beloved Boca Juniors soccer team plays its games at Alberto J Armando stadium, affectionately known as La Bombonera (Spanish for “the Chocolate Box”). It has a capacity of 49,000 and is known for vibrating when fans start getting too antsy – either from happiness or disgust – and start jumping in rhythm.
A behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium is a fascinating look at the sport that that most Argentines live and die by and the Buenos Aires soccer team that was founded in 1905 by five boys living in La Boca neighborhood.
Visit the interactive Museo de la Pasión Boquense, the first soccer museum in the Americas, and walk out on to the famous soccer field pitch, where you can close your eyes and imagine the roar of the passionate crowd.
A behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium is a fascinating look at the sport that that most Argentines live and die by and the Buenos Aires soccer team that was founded in 1905 by five boys living in La Boca neighborhood.
Visit the interactive Museo de la Pasión Boquense, the first soccer museum in the Americas, and walk out on to the famous soccer field pitch, where you can close your eyes and imagine the roar of the passionate crowd.
Address: Brandsen 805, Buenos Aires CP 1161, Argentina
From $ 15
Historic Centre of Lima
Stretching between the Plaza de Armas and Plaza San Martin, and bisected by the principal boulevard of Jirón de la Unión, the historic center of Lima is still the focal point of the modern-day city. Today, the UNESCO-listed area forms the basis of most tourist itineraries, with the majority of attractions within easy walking distance and a wealth of elegant buildings, churches and monumental statues dating back to the colonial era.
The Plaza de Armas makes a popular starting point for walking tours, home to a cluster of landmarks including the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Palace (City Hall) and the Palace of the Union, as well as a bronze fountain bearing the coats-of-arms of Lima. Famously the site of the foundation of the ‘City of the Kings’ in 1535, the Plaza de Armas became the city’s first public square and was later the site of the declaration of the Republic of Peru in 1821.
Next, visit the grand Cathedral of Lima, home to Pizarro's tomb and a Museum of Colonial Art; stroll around the lively Central Market and neighboring Barrio Chino (Chinatown); then discover the remains of the colonial city walls in the nearby Parque Universitario. Additional highlights of the historic center include the Hotel Bolivar, Lima’s oldest Hotel, the 17th century Monasterio de San Francisco, the ornate Archbishop's Palace and the well preserved Church and Convent of Santo Domingo.
Address: Lima, Peru
From $ 29
La Barra
A small fishing town about six miles north of the Punta del Este peninsula, La Barra has been converted into a tourist area with colorful houses, flea markets and antique shops. Despite its popularity with the younger crowd in search of nightlife, La Barra attracts a number of wealthy visitors, including movie stars and models.
Punta del Este has plenty of notable beaches, and La Barra is no exception. Don’t miss Bikini Beach or the popular Montoya, Manantiales, Punta Piedras and El Chorro beaches nearby. Visitors also seek out La Barra’s hot nightlife. The area gets quite busy after dinner, especially around 2 a.m., when the younger crowd hits La Barra to check out the various pubs and discos.
La Barra also has a number of good restaurants if you’re looking to dine in the area and not stay out until sunrise. Choose from traditional Uruguayan eats, sushi places and even Italian restaurants.
Practical Info
Route 10 is the main road to La Barra and features the Puente de Barra de Maldonado, a bridge famous for its flexible design. To visit La Barra from the peninsula, you will need to have a car or means of transport, as buses are not very frequent and taxis usually require a reservation. In town, expect club prices to rise in summer, especially during late December and early January and on weekends. After January 15, you will see a drop in prices, although the area is still quite crowded.
Address: La Barra, Uruguay
From $ 32
Hippodrome
From the nomadic gauchos of the Pampas to the skilled champions of polo, Argentina boasts an illustrious equestrian history that draws horse lovers from all over the world. One of Buenos Aires’ principal equestrian venues is the Hippodrome race ground, located in the central Palermo district off Libertador Avenue, where weekly races are held on the 2.4 km track.
Although inaugurated in 1876, the elegant Hippodrome was remodeled in the early 20th-century, with French architect Faure Dujarric refashioning the entrance hall and 2000-capacity grandstand in an ornate Art Nouveau style. The magnificent building is now a popular haunt for both locals and tourists, most notably during mid November, when the Grand National, or the Argentine Derby, draws in large crowds.
Around 10 races are held at the Hippodrome each month so there are plenty of opportunities to experience the excitement of a live event. Don’t fancy splashing some cash? The Hippodrome complex also features a lavish underground casino, an art exhibition space, shopping mall and an array of top restaurants and bistros to keep non-betting visitors entertained.
Although inaugurated in 1876, the elegant Hippodrome was remodeled in the early 20th-century, with French architect Faure Dujarric refashioning the entrance hall and 2000-capacity grandstand in an ornate Art Nouveau style. The magnificent building is now a popular haunt for both locals and tourists, most notably during mid November, when the Grand National, or the Argentine Derby, draws in large crowds.
Around 10 races are held at the Hippodrome each month so there are plenty of opportunities to experience the excitement of a live event. Don’t fancy splashing some cash? The Hippodrome complex also features a lavish underground casino, an art exhibition space, shopping mall and an array of top restaurants and bistros to keep non-betting visitors entertained.
Address: Avenida del Libertador 4101, Buenos Aires, Palermo, Argentina
From $ 35
Old Cathedral of Managua (Antigua Catedral de Managua)
The Old Cathedral of Managua (Catedral de Managua) is a spectacular ruin whose gilded neoclassical facade still stands but insides were devastated in a 1972 earthquake that shook Nicaragua. Though visitors are not allowed inside, the cathedral’s striking beauty and historical significance make a visit worthwhile.
The Basics
Inspired by the Saint-Sulpice Church (Eglise Saint-Sulpice) in Paris, this impressive edifice is both an enduring symbol of Nicaragua’s past and a testament to the strength of natural forces. But don’t expect pews and prayers. Though you can peek inside at the cathedral’s original tapestries, statues, and other decor through barred windows, entrance is forbidden due to safety concerns and questions about the structure’s post-earthquake integrity. Instead, take a lap around the outside of the never-restored ruins to admire its bell tower, clock tower, and pediment, which were designed and constructed in Belgium in 1920 before being shipped to Nicaragua.
Easily combine a trip to the cathedral with other nearby attractions like the neighboring National Palace (Palacio Nacional de la Cultura) and the monuments of Plaza de la República on a Managua walking tour, or visit as part of a larger Managua city sightseeing tour for an in-depth understanding of the area’s historical and cultural significance, as well as easy logistics.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cathedral interior is closed to the public, but the exterior grounds can be visited.
- The cathedral is also sometimes referred to as St. James’ Cathedral (Catedral de Santiago) or the Antigua Catedral de Managua.
- The old cathedral ruins are a must for history buffs and first-time visitors to Managua.
- Plan your visit around the opening hours for the National Palace (Palacio Nacional de la Cultura) or House of Peoples (Casa de los Pueblos) to make the most of the trip.
How to Get There
The Old Cathedral of Managua is located just a block from the malecón (sea wall) in northwestern Managua. Take one of the city’s many inexpensive taxis, or ride the bus to the National Palace (Palacio Nacional de la Cultura).
When to Get There
An outdoor attraction open year-round, the Old Cathedral is best visited alongside other nearby Managua attractions.
Cathedral Restoration
Though the Nicaraguan government has long promised to restore the cathedral to its former glory, funding issues have prevented any progress. A new initiative backed by Mexican and Italian engineers will take another look to determine the feasibility of restoration. Meanwhile, the New Cathedral of Managua (La Nueva Catedral) was built in 1993 to take its place.
Address: 2a Avenida NE, Managua 11001, Nicaragua
From $ 40
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
The 16 hanging bridges that line the paths of Costa Rica’s Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park stretch a total of 1.6 miles (2.6 kilometers) across the steep landscape. See the birds, monkeys, sloths, snakes, and frogs that call the forest canopy home by ascending these spans, suspended above gorges and stretched across jungle floors.
The Basics
A hike through the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park in sunny weather is a perfect way to spend several hours viewing and photographing the area’s flora and fauna. The life of the rain forest largely takes place overhead, in the thick canopy of jungle and sunlight.
Wander through the thick vegetation on well-marked trails on your own, or join a guided tour focused on plants, birds, and animals—or more adventurous pursuits. An early morning birding tour is the best way to expand your bird list, with more than 60 species spotted regularly in this protected wilderness. Also look for families of monkeys swinging through the air and lazy sloths lounging among tree limbs. For a unique view of the forest, sign up for a night walk. Some guided tours combine a visit to the park with stops at Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Lake Arenal, and the nearby Tabacon Hot Springs.
Know Before You Go
- Closed-toe shoes are required in Mistico Park; wearing sandals is not permitted and you will be refused entry.
- The Sal & Pimienta Restaurant, on the park grounds, is open daily from 7:30am to 4pm.
- The rain forest is home to a hearty bug population; insect repellent is a good idea.
- Children under 10 years old receive free admission.
How to Get There
The hanging bridges are located five miles (eight kilometers) east of Tabacon and 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) from La Fortuna. Look for them just after the exit to El Castillo, on the lakefront road to Tilaran. Round-trip transportation from nearby hotels is available for an additional fee.
When to Get There
General entry and guided tours take place Monday through Sunday from 7:30am to 4:30pm. Costa Rica’s rainy season is typically May through November; prime Arenal Volcano viewing time is September and October.
Adventure Tours in Mistico Park
The adventure seeker in you will find plenty to keep busy at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. One option is a zorbing tour, which envelops you in a huge rubber ball in order to roll safely (if quickly) down a steep hill. Book a Paco’s Horses tour to ride through a remote pasture for epic views, or set out for Spider Monkey Canyon to rappel and zipline among the canyon’s striking natural features.
Address: Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
Admission: Varies
From $ 60
La Aurora Zoo
Considered to be one of the best zoos in Central America, La Aurora opened in 1924. This small zoo offers four permanent exhibits: Africa, Asia, Granita and American.
Not only does this zoo give visitors the chance to learn more about Guatemala’s animals, it also has a large collection of Central American creatures. Experience animals including giraffes, elephants, farm animals, lions, tigers, pythons, hippos and more.
The zoo does a good job living up to its mission – to educate, conserve and rehabilitate animals. It even offers lectures and other programs daily.
Not only does this zoo give visitors the chance to learn more about Guatemala’s animals, it also has a large collection of Central American creatures. Experience animals including giraffes, elephants, farm animals, lions, tigers, pythons, hippos and more.
The zoo does a good job living up to its mission – to educate, conserve and rehabilitate animals. It even offers lectures and other programs daily.
Practical Info
Plan on packing in something other than the zoo in Zona 13. It is located near the Children’s Museum, making both a great option for an afternoon family outing.
Address: La Aurora Park, 5 Calle Interior Finca, Zona 13, Guatemala
Hours: Tues – Sun, 9am – 5pm
Admission: Adults: $3.25; Children 2 – 12: $1.30
From $ 15
Old Town Cartagena
A leisurely walk through the narrow streets of Old Town Cartagena, with bougainvillea spilling off second-floor balconies and brightly painted Colonial houses, invites visitors to escape into the past. The bustle of daily life mixes with the historical architecture of this walled city by the ocean. In addition to the beautiful boutique stores, numerous restaurants, and colorful street vendors, there are many treasures to see around town and just outside the city walls.
The leafy Plaza de Bolivar serves as a good place to start a tour in Cartagena and to see some of the local culture and buy fruit from the colorfully dressed women known as palanqueras. Next to the plaza, the free Gold Museum (Museo de Oro) displays pieces that tell the history of the Zenú indigenous tribe. The nearby Palace of the Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisición) provides a rather gruesome look at Colombia’s past and the Spanish Inquisition -- some of the torture devices used on the accused are on display.
The San Pedro Claver church and monastery tells the life story of a priest in Cartagena who fought for human rights, and Cartagena’s Museum of Modern Art takes a look at art in Latin America. A short walk away is the Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj), the main entrance to Cartagena and a symbol of the city. Las Bovedas, a long series of vaults built under the city, have been alternately used as jails, munitions storage and in modern times, souvenir shops. Crafts made by indigenous tribes and bags of 100 percent Colombian coffee can be purchased here.
On a hill just outside the city is the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, which was built to defend Cartagena in the 1700s, and its tunnels are a cool place to avoid the tropical heat and find good views for photos.
Practical Info
To avoid the heat of the day, try getting to the Old Town earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Another option is to hide out during the hot hours in the shade of the Plaza de Bolivar, in an air-conditioned museum or at one of the numerous restaurants. The wide walls surrounding the city are ideal for a walk in the evening just before sunset.
Address: Cartagena, Colombia
From $ 12
Historic Centre of Arequipa
Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city, gets its nickname “La Ciudad Blana,” or “The White City,” from its central historic district built almost entirely from a porous, white volcanic stone known as sillar. The UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Arequipa, founded in 1540 by a group of Spanish conquistadores, is dotted with colonial churches, plazas and mansions that blend European and indigenous architectural styles.
At the heart of the district is Plaza de Armas, considered one of Peru’s most beautiful plazas and the site of the city’s most important buildings, including City Hall, the old Jesuit Iglesia de la Compañía and the neo-renaissance Cathedral. The Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a Dominican convent founded in 1579 and one of Arequipa’s most worthwhile sites, is also located in the historic centre.
Practical Info
The Historic Centre of Arequipa is compact and walkable, and it has enough attractions, shops and restaurants to easily fill up an entire day of sightseeing.
Address: Arequipa, Peru
From $ 9