Trip Advisor is one of the best-known and trusted travel resources worldwide, and every year they turn to millions of travelers to vote on the best of the best for the Travelers’ Choice Awards .
We weren’t surprised to see many of our favorite Latin American destinations grab the spotlight for must-see landmarks, destinations, beaches, restaurants, and destinations on the rise in the 2016 Award Winners:
1) Peru
It’s no secret that Peru has been on the top of every adventure traveler’s bucket list for some time now. Conquering challenging climbs to the legendary Inca ruins and discovering the mystery behind Machu Picchu makes for a trip of a lifetime. Add in the colorful charm of the artisan markets in Cusco and the capital city of Lima , and you will wonder what took you so long to get here!
Peru made an appearance in multiple categories including the #1 landmark worldwide:
Landmarks: Machu Picchu, Peru – #1
Destinations on the rise: Lima, Peru – #9
Destinations: Cusco, Peru – #22
You can experience all three of these award-winning destinations during our Experience Machu Picchu itinerary, or contact our Peru experts to create your own custom trip!
2) Argentina & Brazil
Home to some of the world’s most sophisticated cities and unique neighborhoods, museums and craft markets, you can tango your way through Buenos Aires and stare up in awe at the larger-than-life Christ the Redeemer in Rio . These two expansive countries often intimidate travelers – but why not conquer the highlights of both spectacular countries at once? They’re joined by the magnificent Iguazu Falls after all.
It came as no surprise to us that these iconic Latin American destinations proved to be favorites for travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and culinary delights:
Destinations: Buenos Aires, Argentina – #17
Land Marks: Christ the Redeemer, Brazil – #18
Destinations on the rise: Iguazu Falls, Brazil – #10
Restaurants: La Bourgogne, Buenos Aires Argentina – #23
Experience the sizzling nightlife in Rio and treat yourself to Grand Chef Relais and Châteaux Jean Paul Bondoux’s French cuisine at La Bourgogne on the Buenos Aires, Iguazu & Rio de Janeiro trip, or create your own custom itinerary with our Argentina and Brazil specialists.
3) Chile
There’s no denying that Chile is a culinary haven for foodies and curious travelers. Santiago is home to some of the world’s most renowned restaurants, including the eight- and sixteen-course tasting menus served at Boragó . Make your way through Casablanca Valley to sip on some of Chile’s best white wines and cool-climate reds, before exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites , lush gardens and palm-lined boulevards.
Travelers agree, one of our favorite restaurants in Chile is the stunning Boragó helmed by Chef Rodolfo Guzmán:
Restaurants: Borago, Santiago Chile – #25
Discover the tastes and alluring coasts of Chile in our Wine, Food, Culture and Coast itinerary, or talk to one of our experts to create your own foodie trail.
4) Colombia
Waiting to be discovered along the Caribbean coast is Colombia. Relax on remote white sand beaches , snorkel untouched reefs, or trek to a lost 5 th century stone city and the Choco rainforest in Tayrona National Park . Explore the colonial architecture and experience the sophisticated lifestyle of Cartagena , a spectacular seaside fortress.
This town may not stay hidden for much longer, as it seems this beautiful Colombian city is finally getting the recognition it deserves:
Destinations on the rise: Cartagena, Colombia – #2
We’ve packed our favorite Colombian spots into six glorious days in Cartagena & Tayrona National Park . Contact our team to craft your own custom path through Colombia.
5) Costa Rica
If you dream of vibrant sunsets and stunning white sand beaches , the breathtaking shores of Costa Rica are calling your name. Take a break from your beach days and walk the rugged rainforest of Manuel Antonio National Park , where sleepy three-toed sloths hang from trees as white-faced capuchin monkeys dance around them. If you’re feeling adventurous , ride the rushing rapids of the Savegre River before retreating to your secluded eco-lodge .
Manuel Antonio National Park may be well known for its exotic wildlife, but its beaches certainly had travelers talking this year:
Beaches: Playa Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica – #15
From the coasts of the Caribbean to the Pacific our Coast to Coast itinerary is a beach lover’s dream. Our Costa Rica specialists are happy to help you put all of the details together for a romantic trip for two, or an adventure-filled family getaway.