Coroico is a town located in the Nor Yungas Province, in the La Paz Department of western Bolivia. The city was founded above the Kori Huayco River, meaning “Golden Valley” in Aymara. It has been build from the profits from mining gold back in 17th century. As of latest measurement the city of Coroico has a population of 30 thousand people.
The town of Coroico is a good place to spend a day before heading up to La Paz, or further into the Jungle. Because Coroico’s the lower elevation, the weather is quite nice by comparison to La Paz, and has a resort-like ambiance to it. Recently opened is the new highway to Coroico, which makes the town an easy access to point from other domestic destinations. For the adventurous traveler you make a trip from Coroico to La Paz on the so called “World Most Dangerous Road”.
The surrounding areas of Coroico are famous for hiking, many of the local travel agencies offer one day hikes where you can walk, climb and swim when seeing the local agriculture, old Casa da Hacienda which are the houses of former landowners, virgin forests and Afro-Bolivian communities. Another upcoming community is the eco tourism in the region, where local guides offer excursions the most beautiful valley with a fabulous cloud forest with monkeys jumping around, and as highlight the forgotten Inca Trail carved into the sheer canyon walls.
To visit Bolivia, you will need a valid passport and about a hundred dollars for the visa. You need to fill in a visa application form as well. You also need to submit proof of sufficient funds for your stay, proof of return travel, and, if coming from Brazil or Paraguay, a proof that you have had your yellow fever vaccination.
Sucre is the constitutional capital of Bolivia. The city is located in the south-central part of the country, on an altitude of 9,000 ft. Its lower altitude gives the city a warm temperate climate year-round. As of latest measurement the city has a population of population 260 thousand people.
The city of Sucre is famed throughout Bolivia, for it’s pretty en well maintained center, and it’s favorable climate, it’s locally known as “la ciudad blanca” or white city it’s often referred to as the most calm and relax in Bolivia, some say South America. Sucre sightseeing offers specific attractions in and around city center but also countryside such as historic theaters and museums like Casa de la Libertad, as well indigenous culture and prehistoric with as highlight Sucre’s relaxed atmosphere surrounded by them as earlier mentioned.
Getting around within city limits is easy, as Sucre is a small city with hop-on buses and private taxis. Some of the sightseeing on Sucre’s country side require private transport such as the Tarabuco market where the Cal Orkco dinosaur footprints are also located. Other than that, most travelers will stay within 5 blocks of the main square Plaza 25 de Mayo. To experience the relaxed ambiance of Sucre travel to Parque Bolivar a spacious park in the heart of the city.
To visit Bolivia, you will need a valid passport and about a hundred dollars for the visa. You need to fill in a visa application form as well. You also need to submit proof of sufficient funds for your stay, proof of return travel, and, if coming from Brazil or Paraguay, a proof that you have had your yellow fever vaccination.
Natal, the largest city of Rio Grande do Norte, a northeastern state in Brazil. The city is located on the Atlantic coast and worldwide known for its beaches. Natal was first settlements took place in the 1500s, yet unlike other Northeastern capitals it did not benefit from steady economic growth in the region’s sugar cane product. Instead it grew moderately to become the state’s capital city. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 810 thousand people.
During the second world war Natal hosted a United States military base because of the its strategic position far east on the Atlantic. Nowadays is the city of Natal a popular travel destination for Brazilians and foreign tourists, offering long stretched beaches, fine restaurants offering local and international cuisine and of course good rated hotels. When traveling to Natal, you can get in through Augusto Severo International Airport, about 12 miles from the city center. There’s numerous direct flights from the most important Brazilian capitals such as; Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia.
Once you arrived in Natal, it’s easy to get around using taxi’s, public buses are less convenient yet cheaper. There’s several sightseeing’s that may not be missed in a trip to Natal, include the Orte dos Reis Magos built in 1598, a star shaped fort on the northern tip of the beach. As well the picture worthy sunset of Potengy River, it’s breathtaking and brings a highlight in your day. Further more the city offers multiple beaches which can be reached by buggy including; Zumbi beach (North), Genipabu beach (North) and Barra de Cunhaú beach (South).
Travelers landing on Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport require a valid passport and visa. Tourist visas are valid for 90 days and can be extended for another 90 days. Traffic in the city is complicated due to certain regulations. The city has low crime problems, yet always be careful. Avoid extravagant or expensive-looking clothing to stand out in the crowd.
Salta is the capital city of the Salta Province located in the northwest of Argentina. The city is situated in the Lerma Valley at 3800 ft. above sea level, and at the foothills of the Andes mountains. The city’s location is perfect to explore its region. As of latest measurement Salta has a population of 500 thousand people making it Argentina’s eighth largest city.
The center of the city is small enough to be explored on foot. Plaza 9 de Julio is the city center, here you can also find the Cathedral established in the 1850s and also the Cabildo. In the east of the center, which can be reached by cable car is the Cerro San Bernardo from where you can overlook the city, especially at night and sunrise this is a beautiful view.
When enjoying your time in Salta, and looking for a short excursion outside the city, try visiting the small suburb San Lorenzo. Stroll around in the parks, enjoy the forest smell while hiking in one of the many trails. Rent a horse to ride up the hill and and behold the fantastic Salta city views. Don’t forget to walk around in the neighborhood to see and photograph the colonial style houses the rich live in. Furthermore there are several other excursions being held within city limits including local sightseeing with culture and history.
Travelers to Mendoza need a valid passport. American citizens don’t require a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. The best time to visit the city is from March to May and August to November. These months the temperatures aren’t too high and there is little rain. Mendoza also provides outdoor possibilities in the Sierras mountains.
Mendoza is the capital city of the Mendoza Province in the country of Argentina. The city is situated in the north central part of the province, surrounded by foothills and high plains. As of latest measurement the city has a population of about 900 thousand people, making Greater Mendoza the 4th largest census metropolitan area in Argentina.
The city of Mendoza was originally found in 1561, since then a lot of historical buildings and place of interests have established around city center. A few of the tourist sightseeing include the Ruinas de San Francisco mission in the Ciadad Vieja, the Parque San Martin and the Museo Fundacional. When feeling like shopping during weekend, visit Plaza Espana where artisans markets are being held. If you prefer relaxing and enjoying with a drink choose to sit on the sidewalk terraces on Avenida San Martin.
As Mendoza is worldwide famous for its Argentinian wine industry it’s recommended to visit one of the many wineries just outside city center. Fine wine tasting, a tour on the farms and wine chambers are included for a day of fun, plus a chance to buy wine straight of the producer. Other tourist attractions around Mendoza include skiing in the los Penitentes, exploring mountains in Uspallata or visiting Aconcagua on the border of Chile to have a look at South America‘s highest mountain the Cerro Aconcagua.
Travelers to Mendoza need a valid passport. American citizens don’t require a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. The best time to visit the city is from March to May and August to November. These months the temperatures aren’t too high and there is little rain. Mendoza also provides outdoor possibilities in the Sierras mountains.
Maracaibo also known as “La Tierra del Sol Amanda” meaning The Beloved Land of the Sun is the second largest city in Venezuela after the capital Caracas, Maracaibo is the capital of the Zulia state and is situated in the shores of the Maracaibo lake. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 3.7 million people.
The historical monuments in old town Maracaibo have been nicely restored, including Venzuela’s first elevator building “Botica Nueva” and the most famous landmark of downtown “Chiquinquira Basilic”. Just across the street from the Plaza, next to the Plaza Bolivar its surrounded by Maracaibo sightseeing known as the Government Palace, Baralt Theater and the Casa Morales which is the location where the Venezuelans singed the declaration of independence. While in downtown, you’re nearby the neighborhood of Santa Lucia which is defiantly worth a visit as well.
Several cultural sightseeing in the city of Maracaibo include fine art galleries and museums, the largest museum of South America, Maczul is located in city center, some others include Lia Bermudez Art Center and Theater of Fine Arts.
Maracaibo nightlife is vibrant and diverse, it offers cafes, pubs, bars and discotheques which can be find on several main nightlife streets including 72th, Dr. Portillo and Santa Rita Avenue. The most busy nights are Fridays and Saturdays. When you are looking to eat, and shop before going out at night it’s recommended to visit the large shopping malls Centro Sambil and Doral Center Mall, these malls provide quality stores, restaurants and outlets. When looking for shopping near lake side head over to Galerias Mall and Centro Lago Mall. Of course throughout the cities markets are located near the side of the street, where you can buy fake clothing and hand crafted souvenirs made by the local Guajira tribe.
Once landed at Maiquetia International Airport you are required a valid passport and visa to enter Maracaibo. To get around in the city simply hail a tax in the street, be warned first agree upon a price before getting in as they have no meters. You can also choose to travel by metro which is clean, modern, safe and extremely cheap. The city has a good climate throughout the year.
Guayaquil or officially Santiago de Guayaquil is the largest and most populous city in Ecuador, also the country’s main port. The city is located on the west bank of the Guayas River, which connects to the Gulf of Guayaquil and Pacific Ocean. Because of the location, its Ecuador’s important center for manufacturing and fishing industries. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 2.3 million people.
Taxi’s to get around in the city are widely available also known as “taxi amigos” though meters are not the standard. Being a tourist gives you disadvantage, an over charge will be paid. Therefore always agree upon a price before you get into the cab.
The city of Guayaquil is a easy to like city, it has been watched by travelers worldwide lately as it’s been going through massive renovation for the past 12 years, and has opened new tourist opportunities in the port area and on the sides of the Guayas river. In Latin America it’s unique that this port has been designed by London University of Oxford, besides the fact its one of the top 10 ports to see and enjoy.
Guayaquil’s nightlife is most active throughout Ecuador. The guayaquileños or locals enjoy to party until the sun comes up. A large amount of discotheques, bars, pubs and restaurants are spread all over the city, there’s no center of nightlife as Cuenca in Quito. Although some club entries may sound expensive, about $10 to $15 US it’s being compensated with the cheap prices of alcohol and liqueur.
Travelers to Guyaquil or elsewhere within Ecuador do not need visa as long their visit does not exceed 90 days. Passports, of course and a return ticket are required to visit Ecuador, immigration officers may ask you for proof of traveler’s economic means.
In the north of Colombia lies Santa Marta, a city and municipality by the Caribbean sea and Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. Some historians say Santa Marta’s actual name is “Santa Marta de Astorgas” as a Spanish conqueror Rodrigo de Bastidas was the first to discover the city, he would have named it after the Spanish city he visited earlier. As of latest measurement the Santa Marta has a population of 430 thousand people.
From most destinations within Colombia it’s recommended to fly to Santa Marta through Simón Bolívar airport, there are non stop flights available from Bogotá, Cartagena and Medellín. Once landed at the airport it takes a 20 minute taxi ride into town, when staying at a beach resort the ride shouldn’t be longer than 10 minutes depending on traffic. The bus station is out of town, if going there it’s recommended to take the mini bus for the price of 1000 pesos (about $0.50 US).
The city of Santa Marta is an important maritime port and hub for history, culture and sightseeing. Everyday cargo ships import and export products worldwide, and there actions are visible. From El Rodadero (Santa Marta’s main beach) you can view the Caribbean Sea, which at night times have breathtaking sunsets. The beach is of decent quality, it’s quite wide and you find yourself a place to sit, though people, vendors and music break the silence. Vendors are rather aggressive and/or try jacking up the price for tourists. The high season starts in December till April, months after up till November are considered low season.
Sightseeing and other tourist activities are mainly done near the beach area of Santa Marta include scuba diving at the coral reefs, jet ski’s can be rented in increments of 10 minutes (life jacket’s provided) or rent a boat for the day to tour around on the Caribbean Sea. A day at the beach gets you hungry easily, luckily enough Santa Marta has a nice variety of restaurants and cuisines available. Their specialty seems to be roasted and grilled chicken, the Colombians defiantly do a good job to make the food flavorful and tasteful. Another local special on the menu is seafood caught in the Caribbean Sea, it’s inexpensive and usually served with a shrimp cocktail.
Tourists staying in Colombia for up to 90 days will not need a visa, but tourists planning on staying longer can get a permit for an extra 120 days of stay. Business travelers are required to have a business visa and a return ticket is required for anyone traveling to Santa Marta, Colombia. Unlike other big cities, taxi’s in Santa Meter do not run on meters. You have to negotiate the price with the driver before getting in.
Viña del Mar, a main beach resort that’s located nearby the capital city of Santiago, Chile. Locals often refer it as La Ciudad Jardín which is Spanish for “The Garden City” as it has many beautiful gardens in the areas. Vina del Mar resembles an English south coast retirement town with a tiny bit more of sunshine. As of latest count the city has 290 thousand people and is ranked Chile’s fourth largest city.
Vina del Mar is a couple of key attractions which include the yearly music festival Internacional de la Canción de Viña del Mar, Spanish for “Viña del Mar International Song Festival” which is hosted in Quinta Vergara Amphitheater every third week of February lasting five days. Another popular attraction is the yearly hosted ATP Clay Court Tennis (Movistar open) tournament which promise some exciting matches on the grind. The casino is another good night spot, and one of the most renown gambling places you come across on the southern coast of the Pacific Ocean along with a couple of other small pubs and bars in town.
While in Vila del Mar don’t forget to take a city tour on the “Victorias” which are traditional horse driven carts taking you through the main streets and sights of the city. One more specialty of Vina del Mar includes the New Year Fireworks, it’s highly recommended to rent one of the many condominiums along the coast line for a unforgettable and breathtaking sight to make your new year’s toast at.
If you’re seeking a beach holiday in Vina del Mar you might want to reconsider, the water is freezing cold, in both the summer and winter season. When looking for warm and cozy Caribbean waters, head north.
Travelers to Vina del Mar are required to have a valid passport and visa, a return ticket must be presented to the immigration officer. By South American standards Vina del Mar is a safe city, but travelers should be aware of petty crimes such as pickpocketing.
On a less than 2 hour flight from Bogotá, the capital of Colombia lies the most popular tourist resort town Cartagena facing the Caribbean Sea, unlike most beach resort towns it has a rather large population of about 1 million inhabitants. It’s the fifth largest urban area in Colombia. Today its the city center of economic activity in the Carribean region, the city is divided into two parts, Ciadad Antiqua (Old city) and Ciudad Nueva (New city).
Whether it’s the Caribbean Sea, the heat or the perfect location on the northern coast of Colombia. Cartagena is the most visited city by tourists in Colombia. The city gets crowded during December holidays and the holy week when Colombian locals take their holiday. The most popular part of the city is called “ciudad amurallada” which means “walled colonial city” which has an amazing nightlife with clubs and restaurants for fine dining. A whole strip of hotels and resorts known as Bocagrande make the scene complete.
If you wish to make a little side trip, have a look at the Castillogrande, an exclusive neighborhood with fancy condominiums, spacious parks to have a picnic or jog and a quiet beach to spend some quality time with the sun as your best friend.
From almost any of the narrow streets of Cartagena is the over 6 miles long fortress walls are visible, once built to defense the city from unwanted visitors, today only captured by tourist camera’s. Taking a walk in town is pleasant and shows the colonial architecture, passing by the cathedrals and palaces in between shady shopping plaza’s its recommended to sit down and watch the world go by drinking a tinto (small cup of coffee).
You can stay in Colombia up till 90 days before needing any type of visa, if you plan to stay longer you can extend your stay with an extra 120 days. Travelers arriving for business purposes require a visa, a valid passport and a return ticket is required for anyone traveling to Cartagena, Colombia.
