Places to visit in Bolivia

Spanning a multitude of microclimates from the Amazon to the Andes, Bolivia is a vast and untamed country just begging to be explored. From bustling La Paz, to the Amazon jungle, to the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni, you will find some of the most surreal sights on earth in this seldom-visited country. Its iconic sights include Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world; the Salar de Uyuni, highest and largest salt lake on earth; and La Paz, the world’s highest de facto capital.

Bolivia is varied, alive and unforgettable.

La Paz Capital City

La Paz is the highest capital in the world and therefore it is highly recommended to spend a few days getting used to the altitude to prevent altitude sickness. As La Paz is Bolivia’s transportation hub, you will most likely find yourself in La Paz more than once when traveling to other destinations in the country.

La Paz is full of top quality restaurants, colorful markets where you will find Bolivian textiles which are traditionally made with sheep, alpaca, vicuna and llama wool and street art. A must-do is to board a cable car and reach the summit to enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the city.

Very close to La Paz (only 11 km away) is Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a complex labyrinth of spires and canyons which was created through a process of erosion. It’s a perfect spot to experience the serene atmosphere minutes away from the busy city. You will discover otherworldly views that look like the surface of the moon. Walking along these jagged rock formations will make you think that you’ve just landed on another planet!

Salar de Uyuni

Salar de Uyuni is Bolivia’s best-known geological wonder, thanks to its extraordinary white landscape. Widely known as the world’s biggest salt flat, Uyuni is home to some of the most surreal sights on earth, from multi-colored lagoons and glorious peaks, to water-covered surfaces of salt that mirror your own reflection.

The largest continuous salt desert in the world, a natural wonder that extends for 12,000 km², reaching its greatest expression of beauty between the months of January and March, when slightly covered with water, it manages to reflect the clouds of the sky as a perfect mirror.

In the middle of the white plain, the Incahuasi Island, also known as "The Fish Island", constitutes one of the highlights of the salt flat, hiding hundreds of giant cacti that can reach 10 meters in height.

Potosi

During the colonial era Potosi was one of the most prosperous cities in Bolivia and America, home to the largest silver mine in the world located on the slopes of the mountain known as Cerro Rico, enrichment that permeated the city with luxurious Baroque colonial constructions.

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, you can walk through its narrow cobbled streets appreciating the ancient splendor of its colonial buildings, including churches, monasteries, temples, palaces and large houses.

Potosí was the Great Babylon of the seventeenth century. There, everything is measured, and continues to be measured, around Cerro Rico, which, at 4,000 meters above sea level, hides hundreds of galleries of the most important mine in Latin America.

Potosi is also the story of blood and slavery that stained the Andean highlands red. Always at the foot of the hill that is still in operation, it shows us a prodigious architecture, with the surcharge of the Baroque in the various Christian temples and the power of the palaces at the time of the conquest. The Casa del Moneda, known as El Escorial de Bolivia, shows one of the places where millions of coins were minted with silver from Potosi. The visit to the city is highly recommended, but also the tour of the mines to feel the harshness of the mines by putting on your helmet and entering the galleries to feel for a few hours what life is like in this terrible place and what it really means to be worth a Potosí. Organized visits to the mines are extremely tough, but very necessary to understand an essential part of the history of the American people.

A word of advice:

La Paz, Potosi and Uyuni all are situated at high altitude. Even at 9,800 feet above sea level, the air is a lot thinner and it can take a bit of time to adjust. Although altitude sickness can affect anyone, it’s important that you’re healthy enough to travel, as pre-existing medical conditions can worsen at high altitude. During your trip, ensure you monitor your health carefully and ask your doctor if you can travel to Bolivia.

Lake Titicaca

While Peru and Bolivia both share this highest navigable lake in the world, in my experience a trip to Lake Titicaca on the Bolivian side is a must. The Peruvian side is great for the floating islands, but the Bolivian side gives you a more intimate and serene travel experience. When you are there, definitely visit the Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna, the twin islands believed to be the birthplaces of the Sun and the Moon, as per the local legends.
On Isla del Sol, you can hike to numerous Inca ruins, all the while being next to the spectacular beauty of the lake and breathtaking landscapes.

Sucre and Cal Orcko

The official capital of the State is probably the most pleasant and beautiful city in Bolivia. Without being as cold as La Paz or Potosí, in its architecture recalls the Seville of the seventeenth century with white and yellow colors on the facades of dignified palaces and other buildings. In fact, its historic center was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its great state of conservation and being a fabulous example of civil and religious architecture from colonial times.

Sucre is a pleasant city, worthy to stay at least a couple of days sheltered by its mild climate, its clear skies and the good life offered by its streets with numerous restaurants, shops and museums.

Sucre and Cal Orcko are located 5 miles away from each other. Cal Orko, meanwhile, is considered the largest fossilized footprint site in the world, harboring nearly 5,000 footprints, some up to 25 meters in length, attributed to titanosaurs. One of the curiosities of the site is to house the footprint of the longest "walk" in the world, reaching 350 meters, an invaluable fossil record attributed to a predatory saurian.

Tiahuanaco Ruins

One of the longest-lived pre-Inca civilizations in all of South America is that of Tiahuanaco (also called Tiwanacu). It is said to have arisen in 1580 BC and collapsed around 1187 AD. We speak of a duration of twenty-five centuries of a culture that spread from Bolivia to the Pacific, touching the south of Peru and much of the north of present-day Chile. It was born on the shores of Lake Titicaca, although the monumental and ceremonial complex that can be visited today, and which is a World Heritage Site, is already about 15 kilometers from the water.

The remains of the city are preserved, which show the importance and power of an essential civilization to know the universe and the beliefs of many Andean peoples. Their knowledge of astronomy is palpable in many of the creations that can be visited today in an extraordinary archaeological site that should not be missed under any circumstances. Each and every one of its temples or palaces are oriented according to the stars with an exact reflection of the equinoxes and solstices in walls and large doors (it is a symbol of the city The Puerta del Sol and the Puerta de la Luna)

The semi-buried temple, the temple of Kalasaya or of the standing stones, as well as the pyramid of Akapana, are some of the places that are made in every trip to Tiahuanaco. Perhaps the most attractive part of the visit is in the anthropomorphic stone monoliths (Ponce Monolith, Friar Monolith and, especially the Bennett Monolith with more than 7 meters high) that for a moment recall an "Andean" version of the Moai from Easter Island (especially in the Bennett monolith)

Samaipata Fortress

Located a few kilometers from the town of Samaipata, you will find an archaeological site with ruins of a religious settlement of the Chané culture, a unique site that has the particularity of housing a sculpted rock 250 meters long by 60 wide, considered an unparalleled testimony in all of America.

The ruins of Samaipata were once an Inca fortress, and its temples, hallways, amphitheaters, and courtyards can still be traced. Later it was home to the Chane and other native tribes. The pre-Inca ceremonial rock, El Fuerte, allows those willing to hike the hill spectacular views of the valley below and the Andes beyond. Carved into the rock are animals, including many serpents.

In addition to the archaeological interest that has led it to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the site captivates with its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is the wealthiest and most populous city in Bolivia and a fascinating place to spend a few days getting to grips with the fascinating diversity of Bolivia. Compared with the thin air and chilly nights of La Paz and other high altitude Andean cities, the climate of Santa Cruz (at just 400 meters above sea level) is warm and tropical. The city is also home to the largest population of sloths anywhere in the world. If you take a walk to the outskirts of the busy city and you’ll see these carefree creatures climbing the trees.

Eduardo Avaroa Andean Wildlife National Reserve

Another of the tourist places in Bolivia that surprise for its natural settings, corresponding to a reserve of approximately 714,745 hectares located between the Andean mountains, where erupting volcanoes, hot springs, steaming geysers and surreal colored lagoons are hidden.

Some of the sites of interests include both Laguna Colorada, known for its unique red coloration acquired by the pigmentation of algae, and Laguna Verde, at the foot of the Licancabur Volcano, with vibrant emerald green tones.

CHECK OUR BEST SELLER TRIPS TO BOLIVIA

Contact us for questions or further information or if you are looking for local experts who can help you planning your trip.

Subscribe to our Newsletter Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel experts and get inspired.

Other recomended destinations:

PATAGONIA

CHILE

URUGUAY

BUENOS AIRES

PERU

BRAZIL

What to pack for a trip to Patagonia

What to pack for a trip to Patagonia

As a start you should know that Patagonian weather is unpredictable and when packing for a trip to Patagonia you should prepare to experience all 4 seasons in one day. It is influenced by many variables, from the conditions in the Andes to the wind in Antarctica or the southern ice fields in Patagonia, as well as the microclimate in its valleys, fjords and mountains.

In spring and fall, temperatures can drop to between 5°C (30°F) and 15 °C (60°F), with higher rainfall (particularly in September and April). In summer, you can expect temperatures that hover between 7 °C ( 30°F) and 8°C (60°F) and have very windy days; just remember, it always feels warmer than this when the sun’s out and you’re hiking!

The below list is for hikers participating in an organized trekking tour and does neither consider camping equipment (tent, mat or sleeping bag) nor food. Once signed up for one of our hiking adventures in Patagonia, you will received a personalized packing list, adapted to the tour you booked.

Packing List:

Inner-layer of clothing:

• Underwear
• Moisture wicking long sleeve tee-shirts (2)
• Moisture wicking tee-shirt (1)
• Long underwear pants

Outer-layer of clothing:

• Sweatshirt
• Heavy fleece or down jacket
• Fleece pants
• Trekking pants (2)
• Shorts (optional)
• Gortex or waterproof jacket with hood
• Rain poncho that covers your back pack
• Waterproof pants
• Wide brimmed hat for sun protection
• Wool hat (should cover ears) or balaclava
• Insulated wool or down mittens
• Gaiters (optional)

Footwear – shoes and socks:

• Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support (Please break in your hiking boots in advance to avoid blisters)
• Camp shoes or tennis shoes (for evening time in the lodges and/ or campsites)
• Plastic bag to carry spare shoes
• Hiking socks (5-6) (We recommend bringing extra socks)
• Sock liners (optional)

First aid and toiletries:

• Advil or Ibuprofen
• Personal prescriptions
• Medical tape/moleskin (for preventing and treating blisters)
• Antibiotics (Cipro for travelers’ diarrhea)
• Diaper rash cream (can treat rashes or chaffing)
• Basic toiletries (soap, deodorant…)
• Face lotion
• Hand warmers
• Ear plugs for sleeping
• Sunscreen
• Lip Balm with sunscreen

Other Important Items:

• A small first aid kit
• Toiletries (including bug spray and sun cream)
• Adapter for charging electronic devices while in the lodges
• Towel (quick drying recommended)
• Sunglasses and a sun hat

Documents:

• Passport & correct entry forms
• Driving licence (if hiring a car)
• Air tickets
• Cash and CC
• Copy of insurance documents & passport

Note: Sleeping bags and trekking poles are provided by IDEAS. If you are camping during your trek, we will provide you with high quality camping equipment including a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

What to Bring if you do the W-trek or O Circuit in Torres del Paine

If you are doing a trek in Patagonia, such as the W trek or the O circuit in Torres del Paine, you will need to make sure you are extra prepared so you can keep warm and dry in the changeable Patagonian weather:

Type of Luggage

• Bring a backpack over a suitcase. Choosing the right backpack will be invaluable to your comfort on hikes. Ensure your backpack fits properly, is lightweight, has compartments for easy access to water bottles, and is waterproof or has a cover.

• Regarding size, shorter treks where you don't need to carry a tent or food will generally require a 35-40L backpack. If you will be hiking for multiple days and carrying all of your kit, you should upgrade to a bigger bag.

• We would also advise taking a dry bag to fit the size of your backpack to ensure key items remain dry in the case of very wet conditions.

Type of Luggage

• Bring a backpack over a suitcase. Choosing the right backpack will be invaluable to your comfort on hikes. Ensure your backpack fits properly, is lightweight, has compartments for easy access to water bottles, and is waterproof or has a cover.

• Regarding size, shorter treks where you don't need to carry a tent or food will generally require a 35-40L backpack. If you will be hiking for multiple days and carrying all of your kit, you should upgrade to a bigger bag.

• We would also advise taking a dry bag to fit the size of your backpack to ensure key items remain dry in the case of very wet conditions.

Clothing

• A pair of hiking trousers that are breathable and light are a must, as these will dry out quickly after rain and will keep you from getting too warm when hiking long distances. A few wicking tops and fleeces are important to stop you from getting too sweaty while hiking. Cotton does not dry as quickly, or keep you as warm during active days.

• You will need to make sure you have a waterproof jacket and trousers, preferably goretex, to keep you dry in any downpours.

• You will definitely appreciate packing a change of clothes for post hike around the hut or camp, so you're not stuck in your dirty hiking gear!

Accessories

• As Patagonia can be known to experience all 4 seasons in 1 day, even if you are visiting in summer it is worth packing a winter hat, gloves and a scarf or buff. Equally, you should make sure you have a sun hat and sunglasses packed for when the sun comes out!

Other Important Items

• A refillable water bottle or hydration system is extremely important. Water is refilled from the streams and taps in Torres del Paine National Park. These are clean sources and will not need to be filtered. However if you would prefer, you can bring your own filter or purification tablets, or purchase bottled water at Refugios.

• When hiking for several days, trekking poles can be a good idea as these provide extra stability for anyone who has issues with their knees, and they can also be useful for providing an extra bit of balance. They are typically quite light and don't take up much space in your luggage.

• If you will be staying at Refugio Torre Central, there are lockers available to store your valuables in, so make sure you bring a small lock if you wish to use these.

Do you want to travel to Patagonia? We’re regional IDEAS experts and pride ourselves in designing tailor-made trips that are a perfect fit for our travelers. If you’re interested in planning an adventure combining several regions in Chile and/or Argentina, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Trip Specialists for a free consultation. We are glad to help you with your lifetime trek to Patagonia.

Best things to do with Kids in Puerto Madryn, Patagonia

Best things to do with Kids in Puerto Madryn, Patagonia

Puerto Madryn is a major wildlife destination in Argentina. A mid-sized town, located on the east coast, in the province of Chubut – in the heart of Patagonia – this is one of the best places to visit in the country with kids.

At any time of the year you can find a lot of family-friendly attractions and activities. Besides seeing animals such as seals, penguins and southern right whales, you can practice outdoor sports such as kayaking, snorkeling or mountain biking. Here below you will find our favorite activities to do in Puerto Madryn:

Take an exceptional Whale Watching Tour – Once-in-a-lifetime experience!

*Whales are present from June to early December only.

The waters around Puerto Madryn, and in particular around Peninsula Valdes, are one of the best places in South America to witness this spectacular species up close. From May to December southern right whales ply the coast off of Patagonia, on their annual migration to breed and calve.

It’s entirely possible to see the whales from the beach, with hundreds of them coming into the bays. But for a real fascinating opportunity, head out on a whale watching tour, which is by far the most popular of all the things to do in Puerto Madryn.

Floating out at sea the southern right whales often breach and play right next to the boat, offering a sensational chance to see these 50-tonne creatures like never before.

Southern right whales are present from June to December only. You can expect pretty much guaranteed sightings during August, September and October.

Orcas are present along the coast all year round. However, they are most commonly seen beaching in March and April, when the sea lion pups are just beginning to explore their surroundings and are at their most vulnerable.

Go Walking With Penguins in their natural habitat – A must visit!

This could just be one of the cutest things to do in Puerto Madryn. Actually, this could just be one of the cutest things to do ever!

The area around Puerto Madryn is home to huge colonies of Magellanic penguins, with the largest being in Punta Tombo*, and another popular spot being at Punta Norte in Peninsula Valdes. In these two places you can walk amongst hundreds of Magellanic penguins, following a marked path down to the beaches. The penguins wander freely, so you need to be careful not to step on any of their nests or get in their way. Just be sure not to touch them, or harass them in any way.

*Between September and April, a large number of Magellanic penguins come to Punta Tombo to incubate their eggs and prepare their offspring for migration - the largest such colony in South America. Couples stand in front of their nests, protecting the eggs from birds and other predators, and occasionally one adult goes to the sea for food. What makes this such a unique experience is that you can get incredibly close to the penguins. They aren’t shy at all, so you can get right up to them for photos.

Other wildlife encountered in the area includes sea birds (mainly seagulls, chimangos and cormorants), rheas and guanacos.

We organize day tours to Punta Tombo and Punta Norte from Trelew and Puerto Madryn. Our engaging and knowledgeable guides will lead an unforgettable tour and share very interesting facts and information about wildlife in this region of Patagonia.

Contact us for booking your tour.

Snorkeling With Sea Lions

Just a short boat ride away from downtown Puerto Madryn is Punta Loma, which is home to a stable population of 600 sea lions. Unlike other places in the world, these sea lions are always present in Punta Loma as they are protected from threats such orcas (which also patrol the waters near Puerto Madryn). This means that visiting the sea lions is possible 365 days a year. It’s one of the popular Puerto Madryn attractions among animal lovers.

For 45 minutes you can snorkel around while the sea lions dive and jump around you . Being this close to them in their natural environment is truly incredible.

There’s also no need to be scared, because while the sea lions can be a bit aggressive on land, they are perfectly placid and curious in the ocean. They will come right up to your cameras, dance around you and even brush up against your bodies.

Snorkeling with sea lions in Puerto Madryn is something you’ll never forget. It’s also possible to go diving with them, but check what visibility and sea conditions are like before booking this.

Nature on two wheels – A guided Mountain bike tour in Patagonia

This bike tour is a combination of adventure, physical activity and contact with nature. Going along paths in the Patagonian steppe and ride along the ocean front it is an amazing experience at any age. Together with your local guide, you will ride unconventional roads, go up and down gullies, interpret intertidal areas, follow country footprints, interpret local flora, reach a panoramic view in “Avanzado Mountain”, ride along gullies, watch and interpret marine fossils, have a snack and visit the Provincial Reserve Punta Loma (where you will stop to watch sea lions on the beach).

Sea Kayaking & Canoeing with Sea Lions

Kayaking with sea lions in Puerto Piramides will be one of the highlights for you during your trip to Patagonia. There are half day and full day tours. Groups are kept small to offer personalized attention, safety and minimize the impact on the environment. Specialized guides run each trip, enabling one to fully take advantage of the tour.

Visit Puerto Piramides

Chill out by the gorgeous beach, relax in the retro cafes or simply use it as a base for all your marine life excursions – The famous Punta Norte located only one hour away. The best thing about Puerto Piramides is the southern right whales that come into the bay, meaning you can launch off on any number of boat tours, or even spot them from your balcony! If you have time on your way out there, stop by the museum on the road to Puerto Madryn to see a fossil of a southern right whale, and the skull of an orca. It’s definitely one of the things to see in Puerto Madryn.

Enjoy The Beach

Puerto Madryn has a long, sprawling beach and a very pleasant place to hang out. In the afternoons you can find crowds of people playing football on the sand, families relaxing and everyone more or less just enjoying the sunshine.

When the wind is up (which is often) you can even go windsurfing or kitesurfing. Rentals are available at a number of places. If you’re looking for the best free things to do in Puerto Madryn, this is right up there!

Walk along the Coastal Walk in Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn Coastal Walk is a 5.5 mile trail which offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options.

Do a Dolphin Watching Tour

While you’re falling in love with all the marine life around Puerto Madryn, make sure you head out to see the local Commerson’s dolphin population near Puerto Rawson.

These beautiful dolphins have distinct black and white colorings, which has also earned them the nickname, ‘panda dolphins’. They can only be found in this part of the world, and an 1984 survey estimated there were about 3400 of them.

Going out on a whale watching tour in Puerto Rawson allows you to see these small, extremely agile mammals playing around in the boat’s wake. These tours usually last for around an hour, and the guide onboard will give heaps of information about these rare dolphins.

Visit a charming Welsh Village in Distant Patagonia

Back in the late 1800s a group of Welsh immigrants moved to Patagonia and setup a small community just south of the largest city in the province, Trelew. Bringing their language and culture with them, they built up the small village of Gaiman to have a population of nearly 6,000 people, and today they still maintain a lot of their distinct values.

Today you can visit Gaiman and marvel at this fascinating little Welsh village. The streets are pleasant and there’s a distinct architecture that is unseen in other parts of the country. It’s one of the best places to visit in Puerto Madryn!

If you’re hungry and up for a real Welsh experience, drop into Ty Gwyn. This vintage tea house serves up an elaborate Welsh tea service with huge platters of cakes, breads, jams and tea for a set price and one portion could easily be enough for two people. It is truly a special experience.

Argentina’s SCUBA Diving Capital

While staying at Puerto Madryn, Mecca of Argentinian SCUBA diving due to the wide range of proposals and quality of service offered, we did not hesitate to dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover a new submarine paradise. There are multiple and varied sites for diving, as well as a large number of operators organizing this activity. It is difficult to describe the feeling of diving in low temperature waters.

Everything is slower and brighter; the algae are greener and everything is translated into so much peace and harmony that it is hard to leave this place.

Have a Dino Family Adventure in Trelew

Patagonia is home to some of the most remarkable dinosaur fossils discovered, and the best place to see them all is at the Museum of Paleontology Egidio Feruglio.

The MEF concentrates the most important fossil findings in Patagonia. This museum is a great place to introduce kids to Patagonia's giants. Recently the largest dinosaur ever discovered was found just outside of Trelew, and depending on the timing of your visit you can see the exhibition here in the museum. (The new dinosaur is a type of sauropod similar to Argentinosaurus also found in Patagonia in the neighboring province of Neuquen). Also, Kids can look into a real lab used for analyzing fossils, to get an idea of the technical side of work done by paleontologists.

Last but not least…

We highly recommend 4 days-3 nights in Puerto Madryn to cover all the highlights and once-in-a-lifetime experiences in this region of Patagonia. There are daily direct flights from Buenos Aires city to Trelew. The flight duration is 2 hours. Do you want to travel to Patagonia? We’re regional IDEAS experts and pride ourselves in designing tailor-made trips that are a perfect fit for our travelers. If you’re interested in planning an adventure combining several regions in Argentina or Chile, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Trip Specialists for a free consultation. We are glad to help you with your lifetime trip to Patagonia.

Do you want to travel to Patagonia? We’re regional IDEAS experts and pride ourselves in designing tailor-made trips that are a perfect fit for our travelers. If you’re interested in planning an adventure combining several regions in Argentina or Chile, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Trip Specialists for a free consultation. We are glad to help you with your lifetime trip to Patagonia.

Best Places to visit in Peru

Best Places to visit in Peru

Peru is one of the most visited countries of South America. It has many archaeological centers, dreamy natural and scenic sites, majestic pre-Columbian and colonial temples, ancestral pre-Inca and Inca palaces, colonial architecture and extraordinary gastronomy. Also Peru has excellent medicinal waters, biodiversity, traditional towns, millenary culture, fine textiles, varied handicrafts ... and the greatest living culture in South America.

Machu Picchu is a must-see destination, but Peru is also home to Kuelap and Chavin de Huantar, Caral and Chan Chan, the Nasca Lines, Sipan and so much more. In this article we mention the best destinations to visit in Peru but bear in mind that there is much more to visit and do.

Machu Picchu

The lost city of the Incas is one of the seven wonders of the world and it is the most essential place to visit in Peru. This ancient Inca citadel remained hidden among the mountains and thick vegetation for centuries, until it was discovered by the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.

Machu Picchu is located about 130 kilometers from Cusco, above 2500 meters of altitude between the peaks Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu, two magnificent viewpoints of the ruins, to which you can climb.

The most mystical and spectacular way to get there is by doing the Inca trail, traveling the more than 40 kilometers that in 4 days, through incredible roads and steps of ancient stones, lush forests, valleys and mountains wrapped in dense fog, will take us even the dream of many travelers.

Another way to get to the old citadel is to start at a point closer to Machu Picchu, which will save us 2 days of walking, or take a train to Aguascalientes that will be your home base to explore Machu Picchu.

Keep in mind that there is a limited number of tickets to visit Machu Picchu per day and they sell out quickly, so you have to book as far in advance as possible.

Cuzco

Another place to visit in Peru is Cuzco. Declared a World Heritage Site, it is one of the most beautiful cities in America and our favorite in Peru. This ancient capital of the Inca Empire preserves very few buildings from this time, although in some of the colonial buildings you can see Inca remains on its walls, such as the twelve-angle stone. Cuzco is the city where people fly to visit Machu Picchu and also the beautiful Sacred Valley.

The Plaza de Armas in Cuzco is the epicenter of the city, in which its cathedral stands out, a place chosen by many inhabitants to spend a few hours in the afternoon, enjoying the life of Cuzco.

Other of the great attractions of the city is to walk through the beautiful artisan neighborhood of San Blas, get lost in the San Pedro market, see the Inca remains of the Temple of the Moon or enter the Santo Domingo Convent, built on the Temple of the sun.

If you have more time, it is well worth doing a walking route to see the Inca ruins of Tambomachay, Pukapukara, Qenqo and the spectacular fortress of Sacsayhuaman, which are very close to the city of Cuzco.

Sacred Valley

Between Písac and Ollantaytambo, on the banks of the Urubamba River, is the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas. Due to its climate and geography, this fertile valley was one of the main sources of food supply of the Inca empire where the archaeological ruins of several Inca settlements remain and where you can also visit several traditional towns from the colonial era.

One of the most popular places to visit in the Sacred Valley is Pisac’s artisan market and the Inca archaeological remains.

Other essential places to visit are the fortress of Ollantaytambo, the town of Chinchero, the salt mines of Maras and Moray, an agricultural research centers of the Inca empire.

Titicaca Lake

Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is located very close to the city of Puno at 3,800 meters of altitude. This immense lake, in which its calm blue waters blend into the sky, is one of the most essential places to visit in Peru.

To tour the lake and visit the islands of Uros and Taquile from Puno you can take a boat in the port. The houses and most of the articles are made of reeds, and you can even sail on a reed boat and although we generally found it a very touristy visit, we believe that it is worth knowing its history and its community.

Another island that can be visited is the Island of Taquile, more than two hours by boat from Puno, where you can also spend the night on the island sleeping in one of its neighbors' houses.

The Colca Canyon

Typical Andean vegetation surrounds one of the deepest canyons in the world: The Colca Canyon. This is the perfect setting for extreme sports as well as relaxing horseback riding, all under the watchful gaze of the monarch of these skies, the condor. Horseback riding itineraries usually begin at the Cruz del Condor viewing point, from where it is possible to appreciate the full splendor of the canyon.

Iquitos – The Peruvian Amazon

The Peruvian Amazon can be reached from Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado. Puerto Maldonado is more accessible and cheaper than Iquitos, although over time it has become a tourist attraction that can distort the true image of the vast and wild Amazon.

Iquitos can only be reached by plane from Lima, so being in a more remote place will allow you to experience the most authentic Amazon, although as we mentioned earlier, the price is more expensive.

In this area, the lodges are located in the middle of the Amazon jungle and all offer a transfer service in small rafts from Iquitos, although the journey can last several hours.

The days in the lodge will be spent enjoying nature, taking walking routes through the jungle to see the fauna and flora, other times you will raft through its narrow rivers and at night, there are many tours to see the nocturnal animals.

Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands

This national reserve forms a unique ecosystem in the world, which combines a desert area with a great marine diversity due to the great abundance of food in the form of plankton.

We highly recommend visiting this protected natural area with a guide, especially places such as the red beach, the fossil deposits, the fauna and the archaeological remains of the ancient Paracas Culture who will give you so much knowledge and understanding of the history of this area of the country.

Very close to Paracas is another of the places to visit in Peru, the Ballestas Islands, small rocky islands where colonies of of Humboldt penguins and other animals can be witnessed from boats.

Arequipa, known as the white city and built above 2,000 meters of altitude, in the desert mountains of the Andes, is together with Cuzco, one of the most beautiful cities in Peru, dominated by white volcanic stone houses, which together with the historic center were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Our favorite place in Arequipa is Santa Catalina monastery, a small citadel with beautiful streets, houses and cloisters where you can get lost for hours.

Other must-visit in Arequipa is the Plaza de Armas with its Cathedral, the Church of the Company and its cloisters, the Casa del Moral and the Carmen Alto or Yanahuara viewpoint, with magnificent visits to the city and the Misti volcano.

Huacachina Oasis

This spectacular Chilean national park offers some of the best trekking in the world. Here, you will spend up to 8 hours a day hiking in the wild, but with some of the world’s most stunning viewpoints, there is no way you’ll get bored. For the W trek some hiking experience is highly recommended. (This is the big difference with the treks to Fitz Roy Mountain where there are many trekking opportunities for people of all ages and no experience is needed).

The best time to visit Chilean Patagonia is November to early March (summertime in the southern hemisphere). Although you'll compete with heavy crowds during this peak season, the weather is ideal for exploring Torres del Paine National Park and Tierra del Fuego. The W Trek in Torres del Paine is undoubtedly one of the best treks in Patagonia. This “W” shaped hiking trail highlights the best of Torres del Paine National Park, including Grey glacier, the French Valley and the Towers’ Base Viewpoint.

Nazca Lines

One of the great archaeological mysteries of history is found in the arid Nazca desert. Between 700 BC and 200 AD the Nazca culture developed in this area, in which its inhabitants created the Nazca Lines, removing the red stones and leaving the white sandstone underneath, thus forming huge geoglyphs with human, animal or geometric figures. The only way to see the figures is to fly over the Nazca lines by plane from its small airport located near the town of Nazca.

Other visits that are very worthwhile in Nazca, is the Chauchilla Cemetery, a necropolis from pre-Inca times, which is a perfect complement to the overflight of the Nazca Lines.

A good way to learn about the great history of Lima, Cusco and the surrounding Inca ruins, is to book tours with one of our local guides. They are engaging and knowledgeable guides who are passionate about their culture and their history. The guides make the difference and are responsible for all the unforgettable experiences that you will have in Peru.

We offer tailor-made holidays to Peru and other countries in South America. Tell us your interests, preferred travel dates and we will design your ideal trip. We handle all the details from start to finish. All you do is show up!

CHECK OUR BEST SELLER TRIPS TO PERU

Contact us for questions or further information or if you are looking for local experts who can help you planning your trip.

Other recomended destinations:

PATAGONIA

URUGUAY

CHILE

BUENOS AIRES

BOLIVIA

BRAZIL

What to do in Calafate and El Chalten

What to do in Calafate and El Chalten

El Calafate is one of the three main cities in the province of Santa Cruz due to its population, behind Río Gallegos and Caleta Olivia. Located on the southern shore of Lake Argentino, it was officially founded in 1927, in order to populate the region. Staying in El Calafate is a good idea if you want to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier and “Los Glaciares National Park”.

Perito Moreno Glacier

Those who travel to El Calafate generally want to visit the Perito Moreno galcier, located about 80 kilometers from El Calafate town, is the most famous of all glaciers.

On the brand-new catwalks - everyone builds their own route. In addition to the walk itself, I suggest including the navigation through the southern arm of the Canal de los Témpanos -one hour of duration- to have different views of the Perito Moreno northern wall.

One activity that we highly recommend is the Mini-Trekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier. It covers all the highlights and you will spend enough time walking on the glacier and won’t get exhausted (as long as you have no disabilities, you will be fine).Bear in mind that this tour is very popular and there is a limit of people who can do this activity per day so it is key to get your tickets way in advance. Don’t wait to be in El Calafate to book your places.

More Ice

You can also signed up for an excursion called “Todo Glaciares” (All Glaciers). Departing by catamaran from Punta Bandera - almost 50 kilometers from El Calafate - you navigate between icebergs and the Upsala, Hein, Peineta, Seco and Spegazzini glaciers. The new Spegazzini base is ideal for walking and taking photos. On board the boat, there is a cafeteria, photographers service and everything you need to have a spectacular time. It is a tour that we highly recommend doing.

Something different is the 4x4 tour that borders the shore of Lake Argentino until you reach the viewpoint of the Punta Bonita Cliff, which offers unforgettable views at sunset. The tour continues to the Walichu Caves within the property of a Patagonian ranch. There, there are cave paintings and a delicious dinner is eaten inside a heated cave.

A comforting walk within the city is the Laguna Nimez Reserve a few meters from Lake Argentino. The reserve is an important refuge for birds, some of them migratory. Flamingos, black-necked swans, geese and bandurrias stand out. The walk can be done in an hour and something and then indulge in something delicious in one of the restaurants on the waterfront. The entrance is very cheap and you can rent glasses for bird watching.

There are many things to do in the city, such as visiting the Glaciarium Interpretation Center. It provides an enriching experience with exhibits, interactive screens and modern technology. The Glaciarium’s goal is to raise environmental awareness and to grow understanding of glaciers of Patagonia. The facilities include a café, an ice bar and an Ecoshop, which sells a wide choice of objects made from discarded materials, recycled and with low environmental impact.

The food in El Calafate is really good too. If you eat meat, you can’t miss “La Tablita” and “Casimiro Bigua” for their Patagonic Lamb and other delicious local meals. Vegan and tacc-free offer is really wide in El Calafate too. And if you dare to leave the usual circuit, Rancho Apart is a closed-door restaurant that encourages sharing with others a communal table and delicious home cooking.

How many days should you stay in El Calafate? If you want to cover all higlights you need at least 4 full days.

What to do in El Chalten

El Chaltén, the national capital of trekking is the base to explore. The Mount Fitz Roy, the Tehuelches called it Chaltén, a mountain that smokes from the clouds that crowd at the top.

It is in a privileged place on the edge of the northern area of Los Glaciares National Park and has become a tourist mountain village, adored by visitors from different parts of the world interested in hiking the Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre and the many needles of granite.

El Chaltén was founded in 1985 in order to promote population settlement in the mountain range of the province, with sectors in dispute with Chile. The first settlers were public employees. It is 220 kilometers from El Calafate and the journey to the town is rich in landscapes.

There are daily long-distance buses that depart from El Calafate Bus station to El Chalten. It usually takes 3.5 to 4 hour-drive with bus. You can hire a private driver or rent a car to do it on your own though we recommend you don’t drive if you don’t know the route. It is much better to have a local driver who knows what to do in case you have a flat tire or if you need help. There are no services along the road and you will not have internet nor phone signal along the way.

Is there WiFi in Patagonia?

There is almost complete coverage in large towns and cities across Patagonia, but when travelling between cities, cruising in the fjords or hiking in national parks there is little to no signal, and cell phones are not recommended as a reliable form of communication.

There are many treks you can do from El Chalten. You can find our tips and recommendations in this article.

This summer the photo of “Laguna de los Tres” has gone viral on social media, due to its spectacular views. The reviews say that it is a medium / high demand hike, although, honestly, it is difficult to say what is low or high demand for each one.

The only premise –something difficult to comply with when social media tips work almost like a mandate– is that there is no obligation to do anything. The fact that a photo is reproduced on Instagram in a certain place does not imply that one has an obligation to visit it or that they feel bad if they do not. Not all people have the same physical condition, nor the same desires.

Some things to keep in mind if you go trekking:

On difficult trails, clothing can be severely damaged; My jacket testifies to the intervention of the Calafate skewers, as does my scarf, which was curled up in a bush. Clothing as well as trekking boots can be rented. I walked in sneakers that also suffered severe damage. You have to bring lunch: a sandwich, apples, bananas, cereal bars and water. These are many hours of intense physical wear and tear. Most hotels prepare them.

There are almost no toilets on the trails and no cell phone signal. Under normal circumstances, you bump into a lot of people, but it all depends on the weather and the circumstances.

Important: the strong season in Chaltén begins in October and ends in April. The days are longer, the activities are operational, and the temperatures are kinder. In winter, there are some isolated activities, but it is suggested to consult a local operator ( like us )

In El Calafate most of the excursions are still operational in low season.

The current requirements at the time to enter the province of Santa Cruz are:

• Negative Covid certificate (PCR or antigens)

• Covid insurance

• Certificate of circulation in circulation Santa Cruz

Please check a local operator such as Ideas South America LLC about the requirements to enter Argentina and Patagonia. Since the requirements are very dynamic and they change fast. Let us know if you are happy to receive emails from IDEAS including the latest travel guides, tips and information.

Contact us for questions or further information or if you are looking for local experts who can help you planning your trip to Patagonia.

Sign up to hear about our newest journeys, exclusive offers and updated information about destinations in South America .

Read our article about BEST OF PATAGONIA

WATCH VIDEO Best of Patagonia

Places to visit in Patagonia

Due to Patagonia’s size and its endless highlights, many people may find it intimidating to plan a trip to this vast region. As a professional local tour guide who travelled Patagonia extensively, I have learned a lot about Patagonia. For this reason, I want to share some useful information that will help you plan a trip of a lifetime.

Here are some considerations to bear in mind when planning your trip:

#1 -Patagonia is twice the size of Italy and depending on the time of the year weather fluctuates greatly.

Firstly, Patagonia is a vast region (over 350,000 sq miles) that stretches across two countries: Argentina and Chile. With 9 National Parks, Patagonia is characterized by its diverse landscape and the presence of four well-differentiated seasons. Depending on the city or national park you decide to travel, be aware that the geography, the climate and the attractions will vary.

Never forget to check the average temperatures and the rain season of that particular area you want to visit.

#2 – The time of the year you go to Patagonia matters.

The best time to visit Patagonia is in late Spring, Summer ( between October to March) and early autumn (April-June), due to the pleasant temperatures. However, the region’s diverse offerings mean you can find something to enjoy at any time of year.

In order to make the right decision, you need to decide which activities you want to do. If you want to see Penguins, you need to book your trip at the time of the year when penguins arrive along the Patagonian coast. Or if you want to trek on glaciers, then you need to book your trip between October and early March before it gets too cold to do that activity. During Winter, most National Parks in Southern Patagonia close.

#3 - Patagonia presents two regions

The Andean Patagonia

The Extra-Andean Patagonia

The Andean Patagonia stretches along the Andes Mountains and its rich in pristine lakes, glaciers, permanent snow-capped peaks, flora and fauna conservation areas; and the extra-Andean Patagonia spreads over a plateau gently sloping towards the sea, creating a wide underwater platform.

We suggest that you focus on one region and explore it deeply. If you have 15 days available to travel, then you can combine both regions and visit the lake district, the glaciers and the east coast to visit the penguins. Or you may want to combine National Parks by the Andes Mountains, organize some trekking days and end your trip in Punta Arenas in Chile.

#4 - Bariloche is the gateway of Patagonia (and a “must” to include in your trip to Patagonia).

One of the best known destinations of Río Negro province is Bariloche (a renowned ski resort located in Northern Patagonia). Winter as well as spring and summer are great times of the year to visit it. The pristine lakes are surrounded by the Andes Mountains and it’s a great place for doing outdoor sports and trying the famous Patagonian food, including trout, Patagonian lamb and other delicious meals typical of this region. Near Bariloche, in the state of Neuquén you can find different attractions: hot springs such as Copahue and Caviahue, ski destinations such as: San Martín de los Andes (Cerro Chapelco), Villa La Angostura (Cerro Bayo), Villa Pehuenia (Batea Mahuida), as well as the peculiarity of a National Park (Los Arrayanes) within another National Park (Nahuel Huapi).

Chubut has a ski center (La Hoya) very close to Esquel, Los Alerces National Park, an old train heated by firewood and with wooden seats (La Trochita) traveling through part of the plateau.

#5 –August through November are the best months for whale watching in Peninsula Valdes.

In the province of Chubut, right by the Atlantic Ocean, you can visit Peninsula Valdes and walk among huge colonies of southern elephant seals and Magellanic penguins. You can snorkel with sea lions or navigate next to Southern right whales. Bird-watching is also a very popular activity since there are over 180 local bird species. The coastline is stunning too. Near Valdes, the Welsh culture can be appreciated in Gaimán ( charming town by the Atlantic coast) and Trevelin town. If you are looking for beach resorts, then you should head towards the thriving city of Las Grutas or San Antonio Oeste known as beach destinations. (Both beach resorts are located facing the Atlantic Ocean).

#6 – Perito Moreno Glacier is the highlight of Santa Cruz Province

Santa Cruz, on the other hand, is the land of stunning glaciers (Perito Moreno, Upsala, Onelli.), lakes (Argentino, Viedma, San Martín, Pueyrredon, Buenos Aires, among others), plateau and Cueva de las Manos (Hand Caves), an Unesco World Heritage. It is an archeological site with stenciled outlines of human hands located over the cave cliffs along the Pinturas river canyon, on the northeast of Santa Cruz province.

#7 – Head to El Chalten for the best treks in Patagonia

The Andean town of El Chaltén is the National Capital of Trekking in Argentina and it is located at the base of Mount Fitz Roy. In this stunning natural scenery you have multiple and varied options for walking, climbing, going on excursions and expeditions.

Most activities are free and do not require previous hiking experience in the mountains, however for the most demanding treks you can hire a guide for peace of mind and to learn more in detail from each place.

You can reach belvederes with breath-taking panoramic views using little time and effort!

#8 - Torres del Paine National Park is the highlight of Chilean Patagonia.

This spectacular Chilean national park offers some of the best trekking in the world. Here, you will spend up to 8 hours a day hiking in the wild, but with some of the world’s most stunning viewpoints, there is no way you’ll get bored. For the W trek some hiking experience is highly recommended. (This is the big difference with the treks to Fitz Roy Mountain where there are many trekking opportunities for people of all ages and no experience is needed).

The best time to visit Chilean Patagonia is November to early March (summertime in the southern hemisphere). Although you'll compete with heavy crowds during this peak season, the weather is ideal for exploring Torres del Paine National Park and Tierra del Fuego. The W Trek in Torres del Paine is undoubtedly one of the best treks in Patagonia. This “W” shaped hiking trail highlights the best of Torres del Paine National Park, including Grey glacier, the French Valley and the Towers’ Base Viewpoint.

#9– Ushuaia: A trip to the End of the World

Ushuaia is one of Argentina's top destinations, and for good reason. This beautiful city, perched dramatically between the Martial mountains, the bay and the Beagle Channel, is popular for its absolute beauty, spectacular marine wildlife, and because it is regarded as the southernmost city of the world. You can navigate the Beagle Channel in one day, explore Penguin Colonies or do outdoor sports in the southernmost national park of the world. Also all cruise ships and expeditions to Antarctica depart from Ushuaia’s port.

In this part of the world, you will learn about explorers Magellan, Sir Francis Drake, Captain Fitzroy and Darwin and you can also view whales, dolphins, penguins, condors, and elephant seals.

#10– Ushuaia to Punta Arenas: 4-Day Cruise to explore Fjords

Built in 2010 with a capacity of just 210 people, the Stella Australis cruise ship offers a comfortable, yet adventurous experience for all passengers. There are options for relaxed or more vigorous excursions to suit different activity levels. A professional expedition team leads small groups on nature walks, Zodiac tours and offers onboard lectures that make every moment of this Patagonia small ship cruise a memorable adventure.

Itineraries vary among the 5 and 9 day programs, and include both one-way and round trip options. You can choose to sail round trip from either Ushuaia or Punta Arenas, or you can take a one-way cruise between the two and combine Chilean Patagonia with Tierra del Fuego and other areas in Southern Argentina. Let us know your travel schedule and we will help you find the best option that works with your itinerary.

Whether you choose to visit the lake district or the Penguin Colonies in Chubut, Patagonia will make an indelible mark on your memory.

Bear in mind that If you are thinking of traveling during the high season, you need to start booking your trip with at least 10-8 months in advance.

CHECK OUR BEST SELLER TRIPS TO PATAGONIA

Contact us for questions or further information or if you are looking for local experts who can help you planning your trip to Patagonia.

Sign up to hear about our newest journeys, exclusive offers and updated information about destinations in South America .

WATCH VIDEO Best of Patagonia

The best Restaurants in Rio de Janeiro

The best Restaurants in Rio de Janeiro

It’s hard to write an introduction for a food city as Rio de Janeiro. There are many great options in every single neighborhood. And while a lot of them are good, we want to make sure that you have all of the best Rio de Janeiro restaurants on your radar. What are some of your favorite Rio de Janeiro restaurants? Let us know in the comments!

MEE

One of the first restaurants in South America to be awarded a prestigious Michelin star, take a seat and discover the most sophisticated pan-Asian cuisine in Rio. The vision of celebrity chef Ken Hom and led by Executive Chef Kazuo Harada, MEE takes you on an exotic gastronomic journey. Taste your way through countries including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan. Among the exciting menu, Michelin recommends the spicy Thai salad with tangerine and quail egg sushi with truffle.

WHERE: Belmond Copacabana Palace / CUISINE: Pan-Asian

PÉRGULA

Overlooking the Copacabana’s legendary swimming pool, Pérgula Restaurant offers first class Brazilian and international cuisine in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The casual poolside ambience is perfect. Don’t miss the Sunday ́s Brunch overlooking the beach. It is superb!

WHERE: Belmond Copacabana Palace / CUISINE: Brazilian-Mediterranean

APRAZÍVEL

Climb up an alley to the very top of Santa Teresa and you'll stumble across this family-run restaurant surrounded by a lush tropical garden. The solid timber tables are set at various levels and all boast views of the neighborhood itself and across to the city. The shady garden with its soothing birdsong provides a relaxing setting in which to sip one of the special cachaças and choose from a menu that offers a whole host of delicious dishes from right across Brazil.

WHERE: Santa Teresa / CUISINE: Brazilian

CIPRIANI

Known as one of the best restaurants in Rio, and named after the finest hotel in Venice, this award- winning restaurant offers exceptional Northern Italian cuisine. The vibrant menu combines the best in Brazilian and Italian ingredients. Innovative dishes sit alongside classic recipes that have been passed down for generations. Chef’s Table: Located in the heart of the Hotel Cipriani Restaurant’s kitchen, the Chef’s Table is one of the most exclusive fine-dining adventures in Rio. Guests to follow the chef as he prepares an array of dishes inspired by the day’s freshest ingredients. This special menu is paired with carefully selected wines. A 24-hour notice is required to reserve the Chef's Table.

WHERE: Belmond Copacabana Palace / CUISINE: Italian

ASSADOR RIO ́S

The barbecues served at Assador Rio ́s is prepared the traditional gaucho style by the Guanabara Bay with amazing view to Sugarloaf mountain. Among several delicious meat cuts we highlight tomahawk, chorizo steak and lamb shoulder. Side dishes are always fresh and varied.

WHERE: Botafogo / CUISINE: Brazilian barbecue

AZUR

The kitchen of Pedro de Artagão reached the seashore. Snacks or dishes, seafood or meats, have options for all palates. But if you accept a tip, try the prawn pie (ask for a spoon!) And the octopus with the vinaigrette, they are eating and praying. The oysters coming from Santa Catarina are also very fresh and combine with the kiosk atmosphere.

WHERE: Leblon beach / CUISINE: Mediterranean

BAGATELLE

Bagatelle is located on the Jockey Clube Brasileiro, offering a menu of French dishes with a Brazilian touch. The classic French dishes, Calamars à la Plancha and the Entrecôte Angus au Poivre, are the highlights of the menu. A change in the atmosphere happens after dinner, when the lights go dim and a DJ steps in, transforming the place into a dance floor.

WHERE: Gávea / CUISINE: French-Brazilian

BAZZAR

Creative and contemporary cooking in a modern and urban space. The menu features dishes made from Brazilian, as well as Eastern and European, ingredients, so dried meatballs with pumpkin and barbecue sauce compete with duck carpaccio with goat's cheese and thyme. Quick snacks are also available, such as soups, sandwiches and dishes to take away.

WHERE: Ipanema / CUISINE: contemporary

BRÁZ

Creative and contemporary cooking in a modern and urban space. The menu features dishes made from Brazilian, as well as Eastern and European, ingredients, so dried meatballs with pumpkin and barbecue sauce compete with duck carpaccio with goat's cheese and thyme. Quick snacks are also available, such as soups, sandwiches and dishes to take away.

Where: Ipanema/Cuisine: Contemporary

CHARBON ROUGE

Charbon Rouge located at Lagoa is a restaurant created for art and gastronomy lovers. The high celling lounge is finely decorated with natural and organic elements in great balance with the view to Lagoa. The speciality is meat and the menu is signed by chef Pedro Pecego.

WHERE: Lagoa / CUISINE: meat, contemporary

CORRIENTES 348

Located in the refurbished Marina da Glória with a pleasant atmosphere in the best porteño style, revealing an exquisite and tasty menu dedicated to Argentine barbecue. With a project signed by Zeh Arquitetura, the house has an air-conditioned wine cellar, a balcony overlooking the Guanabara Bay and wooden decoration.

WHERE: Glória / CUISINE: Argentinian

ELLA

Ella Pizzaria brings to Rio the authentic Neapolitan pizza, of natural fermentation, super light dough and made in the wood oven (handmade oven specially made for the pizzeria). The big star of the house is the edge of the pizza. The pizzas have high edges and "leopard spots" - small black dots around the edge, which, as the name implies, look like the leopard spots.

WHERE: Jardim Botânico / CUISINE: pizza

FOGO DE CHÃO

What makes the Botafogo branch special is its amazing view of the Guanabara Bay with its many colorful boats and the Sugar Loaf on the background. The steakhouse is usually sought after by those who wish to spend their leisure moments or event work a little in an exclusive restaurant with a view of the sea. The branches offer excellent meat cuts and the desserts are delicate and have amazing textures combined with flavors that are traditionally Brazilian.

WHERE: Botafogo / CUISINE: Brazilian barbecue

FORMIDABLE

Located in Leblon, the authentic bistro combines classic Parisian recipes with Brazilian touches by carioca chef Pedro de Artagão, chosen chef of the year in 2014 by Veja Rio Prêmio Comer & Beber awards. The menu is divided in four parts: pour partager – to share; las entrées – starters; le plats – main courses; and les desserts – desserts.

WHERE: Leblon / CUISINE: French

GIUSEPPE GRILL

Located in Leblon, the Giuseppe Grill is a classic steakhouse, complete with wood panelling and exposed brick. On the menu: fine cuts of beef including the Bife de chourizo, a flavorful picanha, the Filé Porterhouse and an Ojo de bife, served with basic sides that help to highlight the meat as the main attraction. For the less carnivore, there is also fresh seafood on ice and one the menu. Check out the extensive international wine list.

WHERE: Leblon / CUISINE: Brazilian, meat

IRAJÁ

One of the restaurants responsible for turning Botafogo into a gastronomy center, has been sweeping up prizes and customers. Born with the idea of creating a "new Brazilian cuisine". This old colonial house in Botafogo is one of the most sought after and busy restaurants in town.

WHERE: Botafogo / CUISINE: Brazilian-contemporary

LAGUIOLE

Occupying a vast room inside the MAM (Museu de Arte Moderna), Laguiole's personality comes from its black painted ceiling, its colourful armchairs and its interesting paintings by contemporary artists - making it a space within the museum worthy of a visit in its own right. Here, the young chef - who trained in some of the best restaurants in Rio and Paris - creates dishes with contemporary flair; these are accompanied by wines from one of the best cellars in Brazil. Opens from 12:00-5:00pm

WHERE: Flamengo / Cuisine: Contemporary

LASAI

The artisanal and technological cuisine inspired by the Basque Country gastronomy is run by chef Rafa Costa e Silva. Rustic local produce and also from its two gardens are used in the recipes that challenge the taste buds. The restaurant presents different menus to please all tastes.

WHERE: Botafogo / CUISINE: Contemporary

MARGUTTA

Located in the heart of Ipanema, one block from the beach, the colorado bordeaux house is an excellent choice for seafood lovers. While strolling down Avenida Henrique Dumont, one can observe the interior of the restaurant, elegant and at the same time bare and pleasant, through the charming windows. However, the menu super varied, does not leave aside the pastas, risottos and meats, these always differentiated since the sauces are made from fresh ingredients, using many herbs, mushrooms and vegetables in their preparation.

WHERE: Ipanema / CUISINE: seafood

NAM THAI

Nam Thai is one of the few to have the Thai government seal of approval – the Thai Select. After three successful years in Itaipava, chef David Zisman went down the Rio de Janeiro mountain range and chose Leblon to house the awarded establishment. The house makes some of their own ingredients, and import others to guarantee its authenticity.

WHERE: Leblon / CUISINE: Thai

OLYMPE

The restaurant chosen as one of the 50 best restaurants of Latin America has a Michelin Star. Through Claude Troisgros’ work done since 1983, Olympe marks the combination of the evolution of the Brazilian cuisine with French techniques, and proposes a new gastronomic experience led by Claude Troisgros. His contemporary vision reinterprets the Brazilian flavors, valuing products of the land and charming the customers.

WHERE: Jardim Botânico / CUISINE: French-Brazilian

ORO

The perfect partnership is formed between the chef, Felipe Bronze, and the sommelier - his wife, Cecilia Aldaz - and they will transform your visit into an event that will linger long in the memory. The modern, intimate space is embellished with designer details, while the contemporary Brazilian cuisine showcases fine textures and delicate flavours - it is presented as small portions or snacks.

WHERE: Leblon / Cuisine: contemporary

RANCHO PORTUGUÊS

The restaurant concept focus on bringing the essence and authenticity of the Portuguese cuisine to Rio with classic recipes passed from generation to generation and full of stories; in an ambient that reflects the culture that has long been part of the Brazilian history.

WHERE: Lagoa / CUISINE: Portuguese

RUBAIYAT

A gastronomic proposal of high quality, based on the concept "from farm to the plate", it is an experience, where you enjoy the best products, prepared with respect, in a rustic and cozy environment.

WHERE: Jardim Botânico / Cuisine: Brazilian, meat

SATYRICON

For seafood-lovers the temptation begins the moment you enter this restaurant with its display of fresh fish and continues with the fish tanks containing lobsters, slipper lobsters and mollusks. The secret of this famous restaurant is its use of the best products to prepare simple, carefully- considered dishes. Try the Southern King Crab (shredded crab served with lemon and oil) and sea bream in salt.

WHERE: Ipanema / CUISINE: Mediterranean

SOHO

With a project signed by the architect Ivan Rezende, the new house occupies 490 square meters and offers 183 seats at the table. The menu, in addition to the classic dishes of Soho, is branded by award-winning chef Rafael Hidaka, owner of a star in the Michelin Guide. Founded in 1998 in the capital of Bahia, Soho incorporates the concept of fusion cuisine: it combines the best of Japanese cuisine with other Asian varieties.

WHERE: Glória / CUISINE: Japanese-Brazilian

TAJ MAHAL

The friendly Taj Mahal is set in a beautiful house in the Botanical Garden and brings together the colorful decoration of Indian culture with the aromas and flavors of gastronomy. The tip is to invest in the classic menu and taste from the breads, made in Tandoori to the samozas of vegetables or chicken accompanied by the lassi made in the shell of passion fruit.

WHERE: Jardim Botânico / CUISINE: Indian

TEVA

The name of the business means "nature" in Hebrew. Accommodated in the elegant Chicô Gouveia design room, examine the 100% vegetable menu of Daniel Biron, chef from the Natural Gourmet Institute in New York. Signed by Dionísio Chaves, the wine list brings only biodynamic, organic, natural and sustainable labels.

WHERE: Ipanema / CUISINE: vegetarian

XIAN

Designed in amphi-theater, this environment was created to fully integrate with nature in front of you. With a menu managed by chefs Daiske Takao, Fernando Vaz and Dianna Macedo, the flavors of modern Asia compose a vibrant setting. Drinks, sakes and wine menus harmonize the experience.

WHERE: Centro / CUISINE: Asian-Brazilian

ZUKA

The clean lines inside and out at the inviting, wood-panelled Zuka on Leblon’s foodie favorite Rua Dias Ferreira are echoed in the carefully prepared dishes emerging from chef Ludmilla Soeiro's kitchen. The focal point of the restaurant, amid its blonde-wood paneling, is the open grill where diners can catch a glimpse of the chef preparing, say, filet mignon with goat cheese risotto.

WHERE: Leblon / CUISINE: Contemporary

Best Jewish Restaurants in Buenos Aires

The Rosh Hashanah festivities are approaching and the Jewish community is already preparing the table with the best culinary delights. Some choose the privacy of their homes, while others choose to reserve a table in the best places that recreate the original recipes of their grandmothers. On the occasion of the arrival of the Jewish New Year 5782, we suggest the best places to eat Jewish food in Buenos Aires and to taste the flavors of the fascinating Jewish cuisine.

Mishiguene

Mishiguene, which means crazy in Yiddish, honors Argentina’s Jewish immigrant heritage by reinventing Ashkenazi, Sephardic and Israeli cooking. Here, nouvelle techniques are applied to old world recipes, using the highest-quality ingredients possible. Its most popular dishes include: varenikes, potato ravioli served with onion confit and schmaltz mit Gribenes (chicken skin rinds in butter with fried onion); pastrami; and gefilte fish in cold cooking broth, pickle salad, fish grabenes and carrot caviar.

Good to know: Every Friday night Mishiguene celebrates Shabbat, and the entire restaurant breaks out in song and dance, led by a klezmer band that plays live music. For the ultimate experience, request the special tasting menu and sit at the chef’s table inside the kitchen. It is not a Kosher Restaurant

* Dinner reservations are suggested at fine dining establishments, especially during high season and weekends.

Address: Lafinur 3368, Palermo, Buenos Aires
Phone #: +54 11 3969-0764
Website: www.mishiguene.com

Fayer

In Fayer, the owners unite the Argentine gastronomic culture and Israeli cuisine hand in hand with a careful culinary technique, through which they elaborate signature dishes where products and raw materials of the highest quality converge, such as organic pasture meat, fish of the day and seasonal vegetables from local producers.

The most popular dishes are the classic hummus, the white fish tiradito with both pineapple, labneh and sumac and the pastrami with bone, prepared with a pasture-fed rib of Pampa steer, cured for 10 days in a mixture of salt, sugar and 13 spices, cold-smoked for 8 hours and finally vacuum cooked at low temperature for 24 hours.

Good to know: Fayer entered the hot list 2021 of the prestigious travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveler. Today it is one of the 10 best new restaurants in the world.

Address: Avenida Cerviño 4417, Palermo.
Phone #: +54 11 4774-3313
Website: www.fayer.com

Eretz Cantina Israeli

Eretz Cantina Israeli is a place that invites you to discover the culture of the Middle East through a look inspired by Israel. Its proposal is authentic and unforgettable, and diners enjoy being carried away by the original and exotic flavors that emerge from the open kitchen in full view of the guests and are combined with native music and a young and cosmopolitan atmosphere, full of talks and smiles.

Good to know: The 3 most requested dishes are Tel Aviv Falafel, shawarma and Turkish kebab.

Address: Malabia 1583, Palermo.
Phone #: +54 11 2062-3810

Al Galope

No trip to Buenos Aires is complete without visiting a parrilla that specializes in grilled meats. Every barrio has its favorite parrilla (steakhouse). Al Galope is the steakhouse of the Once neighborhood. Serious fans congregate at “Al Galope” for juicy kosher steaks, milanesas (schnitzel), and the house specialty parrillada especial al galope, a sizzling tray overflowing with sausages, sweetbreads, tripe, ribs, tenderloin, and chicken.

Good to know: Al Galope is a Kosher restaurant.

Address: Tucumán 2633, Once. Phone #: +54 11 4963-6888

A word about Once Neighborhood

The neighborhood has the highest concentration of synagogues in the country, including “El Gran Templo de Paso”, Congregación Israelita (commonly called ‘Libertad’) and the Sephardic temple, Yesod Hadath. In Abasto shopping mall is the only Kosher McDonalds outside of Israel.

Hola Jacoba

Many people agree that the best options to order in “Hola Jacoba” are pastrami and large “Picada Jacoba”*. You will be served good apple strudels, gelato and baklava. This place is also famous for delicious wine as well as coffee.

Good to know: “The picada Jacoba'', which is the star of the house, includes hummus, tabbouleh, aubergine pasta, kippes, lahmayin, knishes, sambusak and bohios. As a second option, the varenikes, and the third most requested is the pastrami with farfalej. Food delivery is an important benefit of Hola Jacoba.

Address: Thames 1801, Palermo.
Phone #: 54 11 2266-6404

Benaim

In this restaurant you can taste dishes such as pastrami, kebab, kippe, falafel, Israeli salad, musaka, chicken shawarma, among others.

Among the three dishes that come out the most are falafel, the pita sandwich with chickpea meatballs, hummus, tomato, tahini, cucumber, and cabbage; the chicken pita, grilled marinated chicken pita sandwich, aioli, tomato, greens and the hummus, a chickpea puree with tahini.

Address: Gorriti 4015, Palermo. Phone #: +54 11 2102-7003

Glitter

Under the supervision of the Great Rabbi Yosef Chehebar, Glitter is the first deluxe glatt kosher restaurant in Argentina. Glitter stands out for putting a modern spin on Argentine fine dining steakhouse classics, like merluza negra (Chilean sea bass) and iron-grilled ribeye with roasted potatoes and chimichurri sauce. *This restaurant is kosher.

As of August 2021 this restaurant is temporarily closed. Check the website of the Alvear Icon Hotel for news regarding the reopening of this fabulous restaurant.

Good to know: Besides Glitter, you will find a trendy kosher dairy bar called “Milk & Co” and a Kosher Sushi Bar located on the terrace of the hotel. (both open)

Address: Aimé Painé 1130, Puerto Madero
Glitter Restaurant: alvearicon.com

Restaurant Requirements in Buenos Aires:

As of August 2021, diners must continue to wear face coverings even while seated waiting for food. Restaurant staff and bartenders are also required to follow the mask mandate. The city's updated regulations also highlight that residents still need to abide by the six-foot rule.

Best Restaurants to eat in Lima

Peruvian food, one of the most successful gastronomies in the world, confirmed that it is not just a fad. The Peruvian capital is the only one that has two gastronomic strongholds among the top 15 on the planet. In addition, it adds nine among the best half hundred in Latin America.

Thus, Lima is established as the main regional destination for lovers of good food. Central (ranked 4), Maido (13) and Astrid & Gastón (30) are the stars of this unstoppable ascent. It seems incredible, but until 2010 no Peruvian was on the list of the 50 best, chosen by almost a thousand experts from around the world. One of the keys has been experimentation with the country's generous biodiversity, testing and disseminating new Andean and Amazonian products.

Below you will find our suggested list of best restaurants in Lima. Keep in mind that all the restaurants mentioned by our team are exceptional. But it is important that you read our thoughts and comments since some restaurants are for people with a more adventurous palate and do not mind not being used to certain flavors while others are more traditional places with typical Peruvian dishes and familiar flavors.

What are some of your favorite Lima restaurants? Let us know in the comments!

Central

If you want to experience a truly evening of dining and if you have an adventurous flavor palette, you will appreciate Central. The flagship restaurant of Peruvian chef, Virgilio Martinez offers an innovative tasting menu that ranges between 11 to 17 courses ( estimated USD 160 per person – drinks pairing menu are available separately). Each course at Central corresponds to a specific altitude, highlighting the ingredients that are native to that area. From sea level in Lima to the high Andes of Cusco, the rage of ingredients is both intriguing and rewarding.

Tip: Central is world renowned and justifiably so. Please note that reservations only open up three months prior and fill up very quickly. For this reason, reservations for Central must be made far in advance.

Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco. Phone: (+51 1) 242-8515

Kjolle

Owned by Pia León, the best chef in Latin America, Kjolle is considered one of the best restaurants of Lima. It is possible to eat à la carte, but we recommend that you go for the eight-course tasting menu, which mainly showcases ingredients from the Peruvian Amazon. In the tasting menu, find ingredients such as olluco ( a tuber similar to a potato), kiwicha (similar to quinoa) and tumbo (banana passionfruit). If you order à la carte, try the paiche, an Amazonian fish with yuca, cocona (an Amazon fruit) and mishkina (Amazonian spices).

Tip: Like Central, this is a restaurant that is excellent for people who have an adventurous palette, have an appreciation for art and design and want to experience a truly unique dinning experience. This restaurant is not a good option for you if you are expecting familiar flavors and if you have a small appetite.

Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco, Phone: (+51 1) 242-8575

Maido (Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian food)

For a multi-sensory dining experience, Maido (by acclaimed chef Mitsuharu Tsumura) is an excellent choice. Maido makes use of the fresh ingredients from the sea using Japanese techniques and Peruvian flavors. Peru has the second-largest Japanese group in the diaspora located in South America, which is why Japanese food and culinary techniques have strongly influenced the traditional Peruvian cooking style.

A very popular dish at Maido, tiradito, is a favorite for Lima’s residents. While the main ingredients are quite simple — thinly sliced fish — Maido sauce makes this dish exquisite. Adventurous eaters can also try the tasting menu for a wide variety of Peruvian and Japanese flavors. Nigiris, seafood stew, guinea pig and leche de tigre are some of the possible bites on the tasting menu.

Tip: You don’t need to order the full Nikkei tasting experience. Reservations open two months prior and we recommend booking as early as possible.

Address: San Martin 399, Miraflores. Phone: (+51 1) 313-5100

Astrid & Gaston

Astrid & Gaston, is among Lima’s top dining options. Peruvian chefs Astrid Gutsche and Gaston Acurio. Acurio left law school in his third year of study to pursue his real passion: food. He and Astrid met while he was studying at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, and they moved to Peru to open a French restaurant.

The menu offered at Astrid & Gaston changes every six months, presenting innovative contrasts and compliments of colors, flavors and textures. Try their famous cuy pekines (Pekinese guinea pig) and Punch A&G, one of Lima’s best Pisco Punch cocktails.

Address: Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro. Phone: (+51 1) 442-2777

Mayta

Since 2008, Mayta has evolved into a top restaurant in Lima. The name Mayta comes from the indigenous language, Aymara, meaning “noble land”. An homage to Peru and its incredible biodiversity, Mayta represents the best of Peruvian cuisine.

Led by chef Jaime Pesaque, the menu covers some traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche, but also expands into international territories. Besides ceviche, try the arroz con pato, rice with duck, a staple of Northern Peru, or risotto de chupe, a risotto with flavoring of an Arequipa favorite, spicy shrimp stew.

Mayta also has one of the best pisco bars in Lima. Try the classic pisco sour, a chilcano or any number of specialties of the house.

Address: Av. La Mar 1285, Miraflores, Phone: (+51) 937-220-734 and (+51 1) 422-6708

Isolina

Isolina is one of the best restaurants in Barranco, Lima’s bohemian neighborhood. One of the best traditional Peruvian restaurants, Isolina revives techniques and flavors long lost to time.

Best known for their stews, chilcanos and old tavern feel, Isolina’s chef, José del Castillo, followed in his mother’s footsteps to create his own restaurant. His mother, Isolina Vargas, was the proud restaurateur of La Red, a staple of Lima’s culinary scene from 1981 to 2009. Castillo opened Isolina in her honor, reviving recipes of Lima’s past.

Dishes like cau cau con sangrecita, a tripe and potato stew with blood sausage, and guiso de mollejas, a chicken sweetbread stew, are among the unique options at Isolina. Fans of more typical food options can try their version of lomo saltado, a beef stir-fry, or seco de asado de tira, a cilantro and beef stew. Keep in mind the main dishes are massive, with plenty to share between 3 people.

Address: Av. San Martín 101, Barranco. Phone: (+51 1) 247 5075

La Mar

Gaston Acurio's cebichería is one of the most popular lunch spots in Lima. Decor is minimal, but the menu offers a wide selection of delicious seafood dishes. Start with a ceviche tasting (various types of fish or shellfish marinated in lemon juice) or a chalana de causa (various appetizers of mashed potatoes filled with seafood and mayonnaise). Then try the spicy seafood (seafood sauteed in a spicy cream sauce) or one of the catch of the day.

Tip: The portions are large and can be shared. The place does not accept reservations, it is first come first serve.

Address: Av. La Mar 770, Miraflores, Phone: (+51 1) 421-3365.

Cala

Cala is one of the few dining options facing the sea in Lima with a privileged view. The kitchen offers an innovative selection of Peruvian nouveau cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Signature dishes include grilled grouper served with olive gazpacho, lamb ravioli with pumpkin confit, and grilled tuna over polenta. The desserts are also excellent; try the lucuma tiramisu made with a fruit found only in Peru.

Address: Playa Barranquito, Circuito de Playas, Barranco. Phone: (+51-01) 477-2020.

Maras

Piqueras' flagship restaurant was named after the famous Maras salt mines, near Cusco. It is located inside the Westin Hotel in the ritzy neighborhood of San Isidro. The restaurant's design is contemporary and the bar area, open terrace, main dining room, or dining privately at the chef's table are worth visiting.

Delight in the menu of Arroces y Pastas and try the delicate but impressive black rice, a juicy black rice with squid and grilled clams garnished with hints of saffron and smoked sweet paprika. Alternatively, try the famous oxtail, oxtail cylinders with sautéed spinach, mashed potatoes and vegetables with lemon verbena essence.

Address: Calle Amador Merino Reyna 589, San Isidro. Phone: (+51 1) 201-5023

El Bodegon

This restaurant is a small but mighty contender on this list of best restaurants in Lima. Big portions of classic dishes make this restaurant in Miraflores district, a great option for a hearty meal. Start with a pastel de choclo (a sweet corn pie), or causa con cangrejo (a spicy crab and mashed potato casserole). Classic entrees at El Bodegon are: aji de gallina ( a spicy chicken stew), and el lomito al jugo el Bodegon ( a beef stir-fry). For dessert order the chocolate cake or mille-feuille, two of the best desserts in Lima.

Address: Av. Tarapaca 197, Miraflores. Phone: (+51 1) 444-4704.

Best Restaurants in Santiago de Chile

Like their South American counterparts, popular restaurants in Santiago de Chile source fresh local ingredients. Here, you can savor Chilean specialties and seafood stews made with freshly caught fish from the Pacific Ocean. Or you can enjoy meat-focused meals, such as pastel de choclo (a pie with chicken or ground beef, plus hard-boiled eggs, olives, and corn).

To eat like a local, head to the Bellavista and Vitacura areas, where restaurants serve authentic dishes like caldillo de congrio (a fish stew filled with tomatoes and potatoes) and ceviche made with fresh sea bass or scallops. Among our favorites, we especially recommend Borago, Boca Nariz and 040 restaurant.

What are some of your favorite Santiago restaurants? Let us know in the comments!

Ambrosia

Ambrosía is not only one of the best restaurants in Chile, but also number 30 on the list of the Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants. An internationally renowned list of the 50 Best Restaurants in the region.

Another important milestone of this Restaurant is to have the Carolina Bazán seal, better known as "La China" and the Best Latin American Chef of the moment.

Located in the heart of Vitacura, it is a very romantic and elegant place to celebrate birthdays, special occasions such as weddings or anniversaries with the couple. Among its most iconic dishes we have the "Strogonoff", a plane originating in Russia that in Ambrosia is prepared with a base of different exotic mushrooms.

Phone: +56 9 5639 7877
Given the COVID-19 pandemic, call ahead to verify hours, and remember to practice social distancing.

Boragó (Sustainable Chilean gastronomy)

Chef Rodolfo Guzmán brings the best Chilean resources to the table, from local fishermen and butchers, to working with the best Chilean vineyards to combine their dishes exceptionally. He has become famous for his experimentation with food, the use of local ingredients and indigenous plants, and the recreation of ancient techniques and ancestral Patagonian recipes. Boragó was ranked fourth in the 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America in 2016, so enjoy a sublime night of dining out.

Phone: +56 2 2953 8893
Address: Av. San José María Escrivá de Balaguer 5970, Vitacura, Santiago, 7640804
Given the COVID-19 pandemic, call ahead to verify hours, and remember to practice social distancing.

Peumayen Ancestral Food

Celebrating pre-colonial cuisine, Peumayen Ancestral Food will introduce you to the wide range of Chilean ingredients. A deeply ingrained cultural project, this restaurant is an authentic find in Santiago. Using rare and original ingredients, and exposing old cooking techniques, Peumayen Ancestral Food investigates the roots of Chilean cuisine.

Phone: +56-2-4262303
Address: 136 Constitucion, Santiago, Chile
Given the COVID-19 pandemic, call ahead to verify hours, and remember to practice social distancing.

Boca Nariz

Bocanariz has been consistently praised by Wine Spectator for having one of the best wine lists in the world, with nearly 400 varieties. Bocanariz is a 'Meeting Place' for tourists and locals who love wine. Boca Nariz is located in the heart of Lastarria district, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of the city. Bocanariz is a wine bar and at the same time an innovative restaurant, where gastronomy has been designed to enhance the pairing with an extensive selection of wines.

The atmosphere is warm and casual, where the magic of an old restored house and the technology necessary to deliver an excellent service. Their team of sommeliers is oriented to guide you in an 'Experience around wine', telling you the story behind each label and its perfect combination with the flavors of the cuisine.

Phone: +56 2 2638 9893
Address: Jose Victorino Lastarria 276 , Lastarrias, Santiago

De Patio

Asian inspiration, European training and Chilean ingredients are setting Santiago’s food scene alight thanks to dynamic young chef Benjamín Nast at De Patio – named as one of the five most exciting Latin American restaurants to watch in 2019. The sophisticated décor of wood tables, plenty of glass and low dark ceilings reflects the fresh and elegant tasting menu, which comes in 5, 8 or 11 courses. Star dishes include confit sea bass with tapioca, and cuttlefish with apple.

Good to know: Choose a seat at the chef’s table bar for close-ups of the kitchen team in action.

Phone: +56 2 3245 0340
Address: Av. Vitacura 3520, Vitacura, Santiago, 7630000

Restaurant 040 (Avant-garde Chilean)

A smart establishment hidden away in an anonymous hotel in Santiago’s Bellavista neighborhood. Sergio Barroso Urbano takes inspiration from his Spanish motherland and adopted home at this Latin America’s 50 Best regular. His avant-garde techniques – picked up during time spent with the Adrià brothers at the legendary El Bulli – match the sophisticated ambience and, in keeping, the dress code is formal. Top bites from the 12-course tasting menu include sous-vide egg yolk, rich broth and bacon foam, and paella rice onigiri and Béarnaise butter. Ask to see Room 09 after dinner for access to the rooftop speakeasy bar located behind a secret door.

Phone: +56 2 2732 9214
Address: Antonia López de Bello 40, Recoleta, Providencia, Región Metropolitana, Chile

Osaka (Chile’s Nikkei flavors)

Peruvian and Japanese (known as Nikkei cuisine) flavours seamlessly fuse together with Chile’s finest fish and seafood at the Santiago branch of Osaka, a regular on Latin America's 50 Best list. Helmed by Ciro Watanabe, the stylish restaurant, which moved premises to Vitacura in 2017, serves up sophisticated dishes. Sushi is creative – think braised beef tongue with cured egg yolk ceviche – while must-eats include smoked pork belly and tacu tacu (the Peruvian version of refried beans and rice) straight from the wok. Finish off with yuzu cheesecake.

Phone: +56 2 2381 9070
Address: Av. Nueva Costanera 3736B, Vitacura, Santiago, 7630428

Siete Negronis

Siete Negronis is part cult cocktail lounge and part restaurant. It’s where locals and travelers alike come to enjoy some of the best drink creations Santiago de Chile has to offer. As the name suggests, there is a large selection of inventive Negronis, but the bartenders here push the envelope out further, with South American flavours playing a dramatic part in changing up the usual profiles of the drinks. Add in the tasty dishes – think croquettes and langoustines on the grill – and it’s no wonder that this venue has top-tier status in the city.

Phone: +56 9 5408 8251
Address: Mallinkrodt 180, Bellavista, Santiago, 7530217

99 Restaurante

The hipster ambiance clashes nicely with sophisticated dishes created by young chef Kurt Schmidt at 99, a regular on Latin America’s 50 Best list. Reserve a seat at the counter to watch the kitchen team prepare the tasting menus. Simple sounding dishes such as ‘razor clams’, ‘grilled octopus’ and ‘pantrucas [a traditional Chilean soup] and rabbit’ are elevated to another level by elegant presentation and smart cooking. But the desserts are, arguably, the real stars of the show. Expect the unexpected from Gustavo Saez, Latin America’s Best Pastry Chef in 2016. A six-course menu is available at lunch for a wallet-friendly $30.

Phone: +56 2 2335 3327
Address: Andrés de Fuenzalida 99, Providencia, Santiago.

We hope you enjoy learning about the best restaurants in Santiago de Chile. Make sure to check out our recommended Chile Trips

Contact us to start planning your own dream trip today!

CALL US AT

CALL US ON

CALL US ON

Places to visit in Bolivia

La Paz Capital City

Salar de Uyuni

Potosi

A word of advice:

Lake Titicaca

Sucre and Cal Orcko

Tiahuanaco Ruins

Samaipata Fortress

Santa Cruz

Eduardo Avaroa Andean Wildlife National Reserve

Other recomended destinations:

What to pack for a trip to Patagonia

Packing List:

Inner-layer of clothing:

• Underwear • Moisture wicking long sleeve tee-shirts (2) • Moisture wicking tee-shirt (1) • Long underwear pants

Outer-layer of clothing:

Footwear – shoes and socks:

First aid and toiletries:

Other Important Items:

• A small first aid kit • Toiletries (including bug spray and sun cream) • Adapter for charging electronic devices while in the lodges • Towel (quick drying recommended) • Sunglasses and a sun hat

Documents:

• Passport & correct entry forms • Driving licence (if hiring a car) • Air tickets • Cash and CC • Copy of insurance documents & passport

Note: Sleeping bags and trekking poles are provided by IDEAS. If you are camping during your trek, we will provide you with high quality camping equipment including a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

What to Bring if you do the W-trek or O Circuit in Torres del Paine

If you are doing a trek in Patagonia, such as the W trek or the O circuit in Torres del Paine, you will need to make sure you are extra prepared so you can keep warm and dry in the changeable Patagonian weather:

Type of Luggage

Type of Luggage

Clothing

Accessories

• As Patagonia can be known to experience all 4 seasons in 1 day, even if you are visiting in summer it is worth packing a winter hat, gloves and a scarf or buff. Equally, you should make sure you have a sun hat and sunglasses packed for when the sun comes out!

Other Important Items

Best things to do with Kids in Puerto Madryn, Patagonia

Take an exceptional Whale Watching Tour – Once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Go Walking With Penguins in their natural habitat – A must visit!

Snorkeling With Sea Lions

Nature on two wheels – A guided Mountain bike tour in Patagonia

Sea Kayaking & Canoeing with Sea Lions

Visit Puerto Piramides

Enjoy The Beach

Walk along the Coastal Walk in Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn Coastal Walk is a 5.5 mile trail which offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options.

Do a Dolphin Watching Tour

Visit a charming Welsh Village in Distant Patagonia

Argentina’s SCUBA Diving Capital

Have a Dino Family Adventure in Trelew

Last but not least…

Best Places to visit in Peru

Machu Picchu

Cuzco

Sacred Valley

Titicaca Lake

The Colca Canyon

Iquitos – The Peruvian Amazon

Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands

Huacachina Oasis

Nazca Lines

We offer tailor-made holidays to Peru and other countries in South America. Tell us your interests, preferred travel dates and we will design your ideal trip. We handle all the details from start to finish. All you do is show up!

Other recomended destinations:

What to do in Calafate and El Chalten

Perito Moreno Glacier

More Ice

What to do in El Chalten

Is there WiFi in Patagonia?

Some things to keep in mind if you go trekking:

In El Calafate most of the excursions are still operational in low season. The current requirements at the time to enter the province of Santa Cruz are: • Negative Covid certificate (PCR or antigens) • Covid insurance • Certificate of circulation in circulation Santa Cruz

Please check a local operator such as Ideas South America LLC about the requirements to enter Argentina and Patagonia. Since the requirements are very dynamic and they change fast. Let us know if you are happy to receive emails from IDEAS including the latest travel guides, tips and information.

Places to visit in Patagonia

• Underwear
• Moisture wicking long sleeve tee-shirts (2)
• Moisture wicking tee-shirt (1)
• Long underwear pants

• A small first aid kit
• Toiletries (including bug spray and sun cream)
• Adapter for charging electronic devices while in the lodges
• Towel (quick drying recommended)
• Sunglasses and a sun hat

• Passport & correct entry forms
• Driving licence (if hiring a car)
• Air tickets
• Cash and CC
• Copy of insurance documents & passport

In El Calafate most of the excursions are still operational in low season.

The current requirements at the time to enter the province of Santa Cruz are:

• Negative Covid certificate (PCR or antigens)

• Covid insurance

• Certificate of circulation in circulation Santa Cruz