Are you planning your next great adventure and searching for the ultimate destination for 2025? As more travellers seek to escape over-tourism and explore uncharted territories, Latin America is fast becoming the top choice for those craving something truly unique. At Contours Travel, we’ve curated a list of twelve extraordinary destinations across South and Central America that promise unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experiences.
From pristine natural wonders to culturally rich, hidden enclaves, these destinations offer an exclusive blend of serenity, adventure, and immersive cultural encounters. Whether you’re after peaceful retreats or thrilling explorations, these standout spots are poised to be the must-visit destinations for 2025.
1. Barichara, Colombia: Colombia’s Prettiest Town
Nestled in the Andes, Barichara, often praised as Colombia’s most beautiful town, boasts cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and charming plazas that exude a timeless colonial elegance. Visitors can explore the town’s artisan shops, enjoy local cuisine, or simply relax while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
- Highlights: Stroll through the perfectly preserved streets and admire the town’s historical buildings, many of which date back to the 18th century.
- Unique Experience: Embark on a private hiking tour along the Camino Real, an ancient stone path connecting Barichara to the equally charming village of Guane. The journey offers spectacular views and an intimate encounter with the region’s history and natural beauty.
- Where to Stay? Casa Yahri is a charming boutique hotel offering just four stunning suites. Personalised service ensures that every aspect of your stay is tailored to your wishes.
2. Orange Walk Rainforest, Belize: Rainforest & Mayan Magic
Located in the northern part of Belize, Orange Walk is a gateway to some of the most pristine rainforests and ancient Mayan ruins in Central America. This off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature and history.
- Highlights: Explore one of Belize’s most significant Mayan sites, Lamanai, where ancient temples rise above the jungle canopy.
- Unique Experience: The rainforest here is teeming with wildlife, including howler monkeys, jaguars, and hundreds of bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Spend time with your local guide discovering the variety of medicinal plants that were used by the Maya and are still in use today.
- Where to Stay? Stay at Chan Chich Lodge, a luxurious lodge set in a 130,000-acre private nature reserve, offering rustic elegance with modern comforts. Enjoy guided tours to discover the medicinal plants used by the Maya, and learn about the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
3. Arequipa & the Colca Canyon, Peru: The White City and the World’s Second Deepest Canyon
Arequipa is known as “The White City” due to its stunning colonial architecture made from white volcanic stone. It is the gateway to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. This region offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural wonder, ideal for travellers seeking both adventure and luxury.
- Highlights: See the majestic Andean Condor from the famous viewpoint, Cruz del Condor. This is one of the bet places in the world to see these incredible birds.
- Unique Experience: Enjoy exclusive, thoughtfully designed excursions such as private visits to local artisans or exploring volcanic geysers. Furthermore, Puqio offers a range of thoughtfully designed excursions exclusively for guests.
- Where to Stay? Cirqa, Arequipa and Puqio, Colca Canyon. For those looking to link these destinations in utmost luxury, look no further than these wonderful hotels, owned by visionary hotelier Ignacio Masias.
4. Valdes Peninsula, Argentina: Wildlife Lover’s Paradise
The Valdes Peninsula is “Argentina’s answer to the Galapagos” and is one of the best places in the world for wildlife watching. The peninsula is a sanctuary for nature lovers, with whales, penguins, and elephant seals all visible in their natural habitat.
- Highlights: Visit between June and December to witness Southern Right Whales swimming close to the shore, an awe-inspiring sight.
- Unique Experience: Visit the peninsula during the Orca hunting season (March to April), when these intelligent predators can be seen beaching themselves to catch seals. An amazing spectacle that few get to witness!
- Where to Stay? Bahia Bustamante: This remote lodge offers guests an authentic escape in one of the most underrated parts of Argentina. Spend your days visiting sea lion, penguin, and bird colonies, or enjoy outdoor activities like horseback riding, kayaking, and mountain biking. At the end of the day, retreat to your comfortable seaside cabin. Here, the luxury is in the exclusivity of the experience.
5. Chachapoyas Region, Peru: Land of the Cloud Warriors
The Chachapoyas region in northern Peru is a hidden gem rich in history and natural beauty. Known as the land of the “Cloud Warriors,” this area is home to mysterious ruins, towering waterfalls, and dense cloud forests. It a must for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.
- Highlights: Ride a cable car to the mountaintop fortress city of Kuelap, often compared to Machu Picchu. This massive stone structure offers a fascinating glimpse into the Chachapoyas culture.
- Unique Experience: Hike through the lush cloud forest to reach the Gocta Waterfall, one of the tallest in the world. The views are simply breathtaking, and the hike offers an intimate connection with nature.
- Where to Stay? Gocta Lodge enjoys views of the waterfall from its rooms, garden and swimming pool. There is no better way to experience the beauty of the region.
6. Chapada Diamantina, Brazil: Brazil’s Hidden Wilderness
Located in the heart of Bahia, Chapada Diamantina National Park is a vast and diverse landscape characterised by dramatic plateaus, towering waterfalls, and extensive cave systems. This lesser-known region is a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering a truly unique Brazilian experience away from the usual tourist spots.
- Highlights: Hike to the top of Fumaça Waterfall, Brazil’s second-highest, where water falls into a cloud of mist far below.
- Unique Experience: An overnight trek to the Pati Valley with lodging in community homestays is a magical way to disconnect and escape the tourist trail.
- Where to Stay? Canto das Águas eco-luxury hotel is set on the edge of the park, combining modern comfort with sustainable practices. Enjoy an overnight trek to the Pati Valley, staying in community homestays for a magical and immersive experience.
7. Bocas del Toro, Panama: Untouched Caribbean Bliss
Bocas del Toro is an idyllic archipelago located on Panama’s Caribbean coast, known for its lush islands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. This destination is perfect for those seeking a laid-back yet luxurious escape with an eco-conscious edge.
- Highlights: The largest island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, Isla Bastimentos offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and pristine beaches.
- Unique Experience: Snorkel through vibrant coral reefs and explore the starfish sanctuary of Hollywood with a private guide. The underwater life here is some of the most diverse in the Caribbean. After a day of exploration, unwind with a private picnic on a secluded beach, surrounded by the natural beauty of this unspoiled paradise.
- Where to stay? Nayara Bocas del Toro For those who love luxury with a side of quirkiness, the latest offering from Nayara in Central America is the perfect choice. Made from locally harvested bamboo and reclaimed 500-year-old wood collected from the bottom of the Panama Canal, these elegant tree-house suites offer guests an immersive experience in the Panamanian rainforest.
8. Lake Atitlán, Guatemala: The Sacred Lake
Often referred to as the most beautiful lake in the world, Lake Atitlán is surrounded by towering volcanoes and dotted with indigenous villages that have retained their rich cultural heritage. Here, travellers can enjoy a serene and spiritual destination that perfectly blends natural beauty with cultural immersion.
- Highlights: Explore the traditional Mayan villages that dot the lake-shore, each with its unique culture and traditions. Engage with local artisans and learn about their craft. For the adventurous, hike one of the three surrounding volcanoes for unparalleled views of the lake and its surroundings.
- Unique Experience: Join a shaman-led ceremony to connect with the ancient Mayan spirits. This deeply spiritual experience is designed to offer insight and peace in the stunning setting of Lake Atitlán.
- Where to stay? Casa Palopó Stay at this boutique hotel offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. Each room is individually decorated with local artwork, and the hotel’s restaurant serves gourmet Guatemalan cuisine.
9. Chiloé Island, Chile: A Land of Myths and Mysticism
As another must-see destination in Latin America for 2025, Chiloé Island, located off the coast of Chile’s Lakes District, is steeped in myths and legends that intertwine with its stunning natural landscapes. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Chiloé offers a unique and mystical experience in the heart of Patagonia.
- Highlights: Explore traditional palafitos and UNESCO Heritage Listed wooden churches for a glimpse into the island’s unique architecture and way of life.
- Unique Experience: Discover the island’s mystical side with a private tour led by a local storyteller who will share the legends of Chiloé, from ghost ships to forest spirits.
- Where to stay? The award-winning Tierra Chiloé lodge, offers daily excursions to explore the island’s natural and cultural wonders. Highlights include sailing through the archipelago’s pristine waters or enjoying a traditional curanto feast with the locals.
10. Cafayate, Argentina: Wine and Wilderness
Located in the heart of Argentina’s Calchaquí Valley, Cafayate is a hidden gem for wine lovers and adventurers. As part of the Latin American travel trends for 2025, this must-see destination offers a unique blend of luxury and rugged beauty. Known for its high-altitude vineyards and striking red rock formations, Cafayate invites visitors to savour world-class wines, explore dramatic landscapes, and immerse themselves in the region’s rich cultural heritage.”
- Highlights: Discover Cafayate’s renowned high-altitude vineyards, where the unique terroir produces exceptional Torrontés and Malbec wines. Enjoy tastings at some of the region’s top wineries, each offering a distinct flavour of the valley.
- Unique Experience: Embark on a private tour of Quebrada de las Conchas. This dramatic canyon is famous for its vivid red rock formations and breathtaking landscapes. Conclude your adventure with a sunset wine tasting in the heart of the canyon, surrounded by nature’s vibrant palette.
- Where to stay? Patios de Cafayate is a luxurious wine resort is set within a historic estate, surrounded by vineyards. Elegantly appointed rooms and a spa that offers wine-based treatments make it a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.
11. Quito & Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador: Andean Culture & Cloud Forest Luxury
Ecuador’s capital, Quito, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, nestled high in the Andes. Meanwhile, just a short journey away lies Mashpi Lodge, a luxury eco-retreat set deep within a bio-diverse cloud forest. Together, this combination of urban and wilderness experiences offers travellers the best of both worlds.
- Higlights: Ecuador’s cloud forests are a treasure trove of biodiversity. The mist-covered canopies are home to an array of exotic wildlife, including rare birds, orchids, and butterflies.
- Unique Experience: Take a guided tour of the forest at dawn, where you can observe the incredible array of birdlife, including the elusive Andean cock-of-the-rock. Mashpi guests have exclusive access to the sky bike. Pedal your way through the treetops for a bird’s-eye view of the forest.
- Where to stay? Perched in the heart of the cloud forest, Mashpi Lodge eco-luxury lodge is a haven for nature lovers. With floor-to-ceiling windows, guests are treated to panoramic views of the lush forest. The lodge’s amenities include a spa, gourmet dining, and expert-led wildlife tours.
12. Amboró National Park, Bolivia: A Hidden Wilderness
Amboró National Park in Bolivia is a true hidden gem, celebrated for its incredible biodiversity and dramatic landscapes. Spanning a diverse range of ecosystems—from lush cloud forests to deep canyons and towering mountains—this park offers a pristine wilderness experience that remains largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism. It’s the perfect destination for adventurers who crave the thrill of exploring one of the world’s most untouched natural environments.
- Highlights: Explore one of the world’s most bio diverse regions, home to over 800 bird species, rare mammals like the spectacled bear and puma, and a rich array of plants. Expert-led hikes reveal hidden waterfalls, pristine pools, and ancient caves adorned with petroglyphs, offering a deep connection to the park’s natural and cultural treasures.
- Unique Experience: Embark on a private guided hike to some of the park’s most remote and breathtaking waterfalls, where you can swim in pristine, jungle-surrounded pools. The tour also includes a visit to a hidden cave adorned with ancient petroglyphs, providing a rare opportunity to connect with the region’s prehistoric culture and history.
- Where to stay? Nestled at the base of towering red cliffs within the park, Refugio Los Volcanes is a remote eco-lodge offering rustic yet comfortable accommodations with sweeping views of the surrounding forest and mountains. Guests can immerse themselves in nature with guided hikes, bird watching, and other outdoor activities that showcase the park’s natural beauty.
Escape the Ordinary: Your Personalised Latin American Journey Awaits
Looking to escape the crowds in 2025? Discover off the beaten destinations in Latin America with a personalised adventure crafted by our expert team. Whether you’re drawn to the hidden gems of South America or the secluded spots in Central America, we’ll design an unforgettable experience for you and your family.
Ready to embark on a unique journey? Contact us today to start planning your extraordinary Latin American escape for 2025, away from the usual tourist hotspots!
