South America is a vast and diverse continent that is full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From ancient ruins to breathtaking natural wonders, there is something for every traveler in South America. Today we’ll be talking about some traveling hidden treasures in South America that are often overlooked by travelers but are well worth a visit.
The Quilotoa Loop in Ecuador
Located in the Andean Highlands of Ecuador, the Quilotoa Loop is a stunning trek that takes travelers through a series of remote villages and picturesque landscapes. The highlight of the trek is the Quilotoa Crater, a stunning turquoise lake that was formed by a collapsed volcano. This hidden gem is not as well-known as other destinations in Ecuador, but it is a must-see for anyone looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
The Lost City in Colombia
The Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida, is the archaeological site of an ancient city and a hidden treasure in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Colombia. It was only discovered in the 1970s and is believed to be over 1,000 years old. The trek to the Lost City is challenging but incredibly rewarding, as visitors will have the opportunity to explore the ruins of this ancient civilization that was once home to over 10,000 people. The city is inaccessible by cars so tourists need to walk for miles to discover this beautiful city.
The Atacama Desert in Chile
The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on earth, but it is also one of the most stunning. It is a desert plateau of about a 1,600 km strip of land that is a hidden treasure and is home to otherworldly landscapes, including towering sand dunes, colorful geysers, and salt flats. Visitors to the Atacama Desert can also stargaze under some of the clearest skies in the world.
The Chapada Diamantina National Park in Brazil
Located in the heart of Brazil, the Chapada Diamantina National Park is a hidden treasure that is full of natural wonders. Visitors can explore stunning waterfalls, crystal clear rivers, and vast canyons that were formed millions of years ago. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars and giant anteaters. The park is covered mostly in flora and it has mountainous scenery and a wide range of ecosystems.
The Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia
The Uyuni Salt Flats is one of South America’s most unique and stunning landscapes. This hidden treasure covers over 10,000 square kilometers and is the largest salt flat in the world. Visitors can explore the salt flats on foot, by bicycle, or even by four-wheel drive, and witness some of the most incredible sunsets and sunrises in the world. It is worth visiting if you ever plan on visiting Bolivia.
The Colca Canyon in Peru
The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and a hidden treasure in Peru. It is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and is home to stunning landscapes, including terraced farmland and traditional villages. Visitors can also witness the incredible sight of the Andean Condor, one of the largest birds in the world.
Even though some of these hidden treasures may require a bit more effort to reach, the reward is well worth it. So, the next time you’re planning a trip to South America, consider venturing off the beaten path to explore some of these hidden gems and experience the true magic of this incredible continent.