Published on August 10, 2025 |
As travelers from all over the world seek new and exotic destinations to visit, Colombia, together with Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Bolivia, offers some of the top choices for summer travel. These countries have some of the world’s best-hidden treasures, with an abundant mixture of culture, tourism, and adventure which serve as better alternatives to the overpopulated tourist centers. Each of these countries has a unique selling point Colombia has remarkable beaches and Bolivia has diverse cultural places of interests. Brazil is famous for its secluded beaches, Argentina awe for its ancient treasures, and Chilean sites are a must for any history lover. These countries, with the right guidance and tourism, are summer travel jewels to add to your traveling plans. In this article, we shall provide the latest important details and refreshing insights to these countries which are waiting to be found this summer.

San Andrés, Colombia

San Andrés, located off the coast of Colombia, is a serene tropical island that offers a perfect getaway for those seeking a peaceful and scenic destination. The island is easily accessible through Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport, which is just a short 5 km drive from the main town. Despite attracting around 400,000-500,000 visitors annually, San Andrés remains less crowded than other popular beach destinations in the Caribbean. The island is known for its Johnny Cay, a small but stunning island offering clear, turquoise waters and pristine beaches, ideal for sunbathing and relaxation. Another major attraction is the Sea of Seven Colors, where the water changes hues as you look out from the beach, providing a surreal and beautiful sight. For those seeking adventure, snorkeling and scuba diving in the coral reefs around the island allow visitors to explore the vibrant marine life. Travelers can also enjoy island hopping, visiting nearby smaller islands that remain largely untouched by large crowds. If you visit during the summer, you can enjoy the San Andrés Carnival in August, which celebrates the island’s culture with music, dance, and local traditions.

Paraty, Brazil

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Located along Brazil’s beautiful coastline, Paraty is a historic town that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling cities like Rio de Janeiro. Accessible from Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport, which is about 4 hours by car, Paraty attracts around 250,000-300,000 visitors annually. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, Paraty Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and quaint cafes. Another highlight is Ilha do Cardoso State Park, a protected area known for its pristine beaches, hiking trails, and lush forests. For adventure enthusiasts, Paraty offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boat tours to nearby islands, where you can relax on secluded beaches, and hiking through the surrounding hills and tropical forests. In addition, visitors can explore the stunning coastal views and hidden coves around the region. If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the Paraty International Literary Festival held in July, a cultural event that celebrates literature with famous authors, readers, and literary discussions, making it a perfect addition to your cultural exploration.

Valparaíso, Chile

Valparaíso, a coastal city in central Chile, is known for its vibrant art scene, steep hills, and historical significance. The city is easily accessible via Santiago International Airport, just a 1.5-hour drive away. Valparaíso receives around 1 million visitors annually, though it remains more relaxed than the bustling capital, Santiago. One of the city’s main attractions is its colorful street art that decorates nearly every corner of Valparaíso. The city has transformed into an open-air art gallery, with murals and installations that capture the essence of its artistic culture. Another notable sight is Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, two historic hills offering incredible views of the harbor, dotted with cafes, boutiques, and galleries. For those seeking adventure, hiking through these hills provides a unique opportunity to explore Valparaíso’s unique topography and to discover hidden corners of the city. Visitors can also enjoy a boat tour of the harbor, which offers a different perspective of the city’s charm. If you happen to be in town during the summer, the Valparaíso International Film Festival, held every October, brings together filmmakers and cinephiles from all over Latin America for a celebration of global cinema.

Mendoza, Argentina

Mendoza, located in the heart of Argentina’s wine country, is an underrated destination that attracts wine lovers and adventure seekers alike. The region is easily accessible via El Plumerillo International Airport, located just 10 km from the city center. Mendoza draws around 500,000-600,000 visitors annually, mainly drawn by its world-class vineyards and wine production. One of the biggest attractions in Mendoza is its vineyards, where you can enjoy a variety of wine tours, including tastings and guided visits to some of the region’s finest wineries. The region is particularly known for its Malbec wines, which have gained international acclaim. For those seeking adventure, Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas, offers an opportunity for challenging hikes and mountaineering. For less extreme activities, visitors can enjoy hiking in the nearby mountains and mountain biking through the scenic valleys of the region. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to attend the Vendimia Festival, held in March, which celebrates the grape harvest with parades, music, and plenty of wine tasting.

Sucre, Bolivia

Sucre, Bolivia’s constitutional capital, is a small, charming city rich in history and culture. Easily accessible via Juana Azurduy de Padilla International Airport, which is just 15 minutes from the city center, Sucre attracts around 100,000-150,000 visitors each year. Sucre is home to several historical landmarks, including the Plaza 25 de Mayo, a beautiful colonial square surrounded by churches, museums, and cafes. Visitors can explore the Tarabuco Market, which offers traditional crafts, textiles, and local foods, providing an authentic experience of Bolivia’s indigenous cultures. For those who love to hike, the surrounding hills offer picturesque views of the city and the vast Bolivian countryside. A short trip outside of Sucre will also take you to some of the country’s ancient paleontological sites, where you can see dinosaur footprints preserved in the rocks. In the summer, the Sucre Festival of Independence, held in May, is a highlight, celebrating the city’s role in Bolivia’s independence with parades, music, and vibrant cultural performances.

Salta, Argentina

Salta, located in northwestern Argentina, is a region known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. The city is easily accessible via Martin Miguel de Güemes International Airport, located just 15 km from the city center. Salta attracts around 200,000-300,000 visitors annually, making it one of Argentina’s best-kept secrets. The city’s main attraction is Plaza 9 de Julio, a central square surrounded by colonial-era buildings, churches, and cafes, which makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Train to the Clouds, one of the highest railways in the world, offers an unforgettable journey through the Andes, with stunning views of the mountains and valleys below. For adventure lovers, mountain biking through the rugged terrain of the surrounding mountains is a popular activity, as is wine tasting in the nearby Calchaquí Valley, known for producing excellent wines. If you’re in Salta during the summer, don’t miss the Salta Folk Festival, which takes place in February and celebrates the region’s rich traditions, music, and dance.

Why These Destinations Are Perfect for Your Summer Getaway

These six underrated South American destinations offer a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty that will make your summer getaway truly unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring the artistic streets of Valparaíso, tasting wines in Mendoza, or hiking through the hills of Sucre, each destination provides something unique. With upcoming festivals and cultural events, these hidden gems will help you enjoy a peaceful yet enriching vacation away from the typical tourist crowds.

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Tags: adventure destinations South America, hidden gems South America, Underrated summer travel South America

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Monday, August 11, 2025
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