With the Polar Vortex, rain and freezing temperatures, the winter months looked like they didn’t have an end any time soon.
But with the warm weather finally here and with TripAdvisor saying that 86% of people in the United States are planning a summer trip this year, where will you be going?
If you’re in the 14% that hasn’t yet planned their summer vacation, here is our list of the top 5 US summer destinations in Latin America that are waiting to be enjoyed!
♦ Relax in Belize’s Paradise
Undeniable splendor and paradisaical destinations, Belize is the perfect summer destination! Just a short flight from the US and a hop over the border to Guatemala, Belize is just a short trip away.
With warm azure Caribbean waters, exotic rainforests and Mayan ruins the pristine highlights of Belize will meet all your travel desires.
Over 40% of the country is protected and with 570 species of birds and an array of monkeys, crocodiles and iguanas, the Belizean subtropical rainforest in the Cayo District is not only full of a vibrant natural highlight but it also hides the spectacular Maya ruins within. The Caracol Maya ruins with its Caana Sky Palace provide unrestricted and unimaginable views over the canopy of the surrounding jungle whilst the howls of monkeys add to the mystical atmosphere of these Mayan ruins. Ambergris Caye’s crystal clear azure waters and the world’s second largest barrier reef just off its coast, means that snorkeling and exploring the marine life is a travel experience that cannot be missed this summer.
♦ Exploring Brazil’s Blessings
Many people don’t believe it but Brazil will definitely have the energy to continue to impress after the World Cup this summer. With ‘no vacancy’ signs going up throughout Brazil months before the World Cup begins, traveling to Brazil just after the world descends on this South American giant could be one of the best times to visit.
There is no doubt that the Carnival atmosphere will continue well after the closing World Cup ceremony on July 13, giving you plenty of time to explore the beauty of Brazil this summer.
Brazilians like to tell a joke whereby one of the archangels peered over God’s shoulder when he was making the world and said, ‘You’ve given everything to Brazil. It’s got the longest beaches, the largest river, the biggest forest, the best soil. The weather’s always warm and sunny, with no floods, hurricanes, or natural disasters at all. Don’t you think that’s a little unfair?’ To which God replied, ‘just wait until you see the people I’m putting there!’ From the golden sands of some of the best beaches in the world, to the verdant nature of the Amazon and Pantanal there is definitely some truth in the Brazilian joke with its beauty shining through no matter where you go.
♦ Adrenaline Infused Relaxation in Costa Rica
Think of adventure and nature and Costa Rica comes to mind and spending your summer vacation in Costa Rica will not disappoint! The emerald green forests, soaring volcanic peaks, warm Caribbean waters and jungle backed beaches on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica makes it an all-round dream destination.
Packed with natural wonders, there is no getting away from the adrenaline-pumping adventures on offer in Costa Rica.
From zip-lining through the incredible Monteverde cloud forest and kayaking through the Pacuare jungle river, to horseback riding in Arenal along the edge of what was once one of the most active volcanoes in the world, there is never a dull moment in Costa Rica. In spite of this activity-filled country the laid-back Pura Vida atmosphere of Costa Rica will ensure that you will be able to enjoy the life of the local two-toed sloth and simply relax in your luxury jungle lodge or on the white sandy beaches.
♦ The Untouched Wonders of Guatemala
There’s no bad time to visit Guatemala and although your summer vacation period will tie in with the winter months it doesn’t rain all day and has just temporary downpours which won’t affect your experience. Guatemala is a mysterious and captivating country to explore with its rich Maya history alongside colonial architecture and stunning views, this relatively unexplored world provides beautiful experiences. Antigua’s stunning colonial architecture will transport you back to the time of the Spanish in Latin America and if you’ve explored the quaint streets of Cusco you’ll see a remarkable similarity.
If you think that the Maya culture and civilization died out centuries ago, you’d be wrong!
On the hillsides surrounding the eye-catching picturesque panorama of Lake Atitlan, the Maya traditions and culture continues to thrive. This unique cultural experience is as pure as it gets and will leave you with lasting travel memories. Delving into the Maya history further, you’ll come across spectacular and well preserved ‘Lost Cities’ such as the Tikal Complex which pokes through the verdant jungle canopy. Expand your travel boundaries in Guatemala for a rich cultural travel experience.
♦ Ticking Peru Off Your Travel Bucket List
Featuring on the bucket list of most travelers visiting South America, Peru’s climate during the US summer months is the perfect time to visit. With Peru experiencing the driest part of the year, its highlight destinations such as the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and the Amazon are perfect to explore. Dramatic scenery, landscapes and nature wait to blow your mind and the exquisite cuisine, culture and traditions will entice all of your senses.
The Inti Raymi Festival of the Sun takes place at the incredible Sacsayhuamán ruins just outside the city of Cusco takes place on June 24 and is Latin America’s second largest festival.
Once the most important ceremony of the Inca empire, this is a cultural experience not to be missed this summer. From the height of the tranquil Lake Titicaca and gliding condors of the Colca Canyon, to the spectacular nature of the Amazon and adventure of the Sacred Valley; Peru provides the perfect mix of highlights and activities for your summer vacation.
Thanks for visiting our Central & South America Travel Blog! Feel free to contact one of our Travel Specialists via email, phone or chat to plan your perfect Belize, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guatemala or Peru itinerary.