South America in 2026?

The New Year is all about renewal and new experiences!   It is the perfect time for a new destination or a fresh adventure! Update your goals and indulge in a novel port of call! I love Central and South America and hope for more visits in 2026.  The entire region is increasingly popular for the curious and adventurous – enjoy it by either land or sea!   Today let’s look at two South American cities off the beaten track and worth a visit! 

POTOSI, BOLIVIA – The highest city in the world (13,920 feet!) Potosi is a World Heritage Site, often described as eerie or dreamlike.  With the Andes Mountains as a backdrop, you will find salt flats 12,000 feet high. Hot springs lakes ,and the Licancabur Volcano  Although it is no longer active,it still produces a notable amount of heat.  This area of Bolivia has long been known as a haven for backpackers but is now visited by comfort-loving travelers as well!  The town itself is worth exploring-visit the Cerro Rico Silver Mine (but make sure you have an experienced guide.).  If you are a history buff, be sure to spend time in the town’s historic center!

A word of caution for those who journey here -you must be very careful to  acclimate to altitude! This is easy to do by following certain steps including drinking lots of water, avoiding exercise and not consuming alcohol or caffeine.  Visit this Bolivian town in  mid February through May and enjoy comfortable weather.

MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA – When you think of Medellin, what is your first thought?  If you are like me, you will immediately think of dangerous drug cartels.  Twenty years ago that was an accurate description; today the city is beautiful, modern and a foodie destination.  The second largest city in Colombia, Medellin has a year-round temperature in the mid-60’s and is often referred to as “the city of eternal spring”.  Visit Comuna 13, formerly one of the worst areas in the city, but now an artistic must-see.  Take the metro cable car and see the city from above.  Visit Barefoot Park and the Botanical Garden.  There are so many attractions you will want to see!  Make sure you save some time to explore its many culinary delights and sample its traditional food!

I will be exploring this beautiful part of the world over the next few weeks.  If you have a city or country you would like to hear about, be sure to let me know!