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Central & South America

Summer Forecast: Winter rains in Venezuela supercharge the flow of Angel Falls, while drier, cooler norms prompt rainforest celebrations, most notably in Manaus. The gems of the Andes, especially the Inca sites throughout Peru, are bombarded with travelers during a noticeable dry season, but average temps in the 30s keep Patagonia reserved for luxury lodgers and the hardiest outdoor-folk. Early rainy season trips to the rainforests of Costa Rica offer low-season value and lush foliage, and surfers eagerly ride building Pacific swells.

15. NICARAGUA
Bordered by both the Caribbean and Pacific, this Central American nation’s name fittingly translates to “surrounded by water.” Known for its abundant beaches (any type you’d like: white-sand or wild, ready for relaxation or rife with rip tides), it’s also marked by a geological fault line that’s helped to conjure some 50 volcanic cones, seven of which are still alive and booming (most can be hiked). Explore the rainforest, observe freshwater sharks in Lake Nicaragua, and take advantage of bargain stays in this growing ecotourism market.

Why Go In Summer: From volcano-top cloud forests to sea turtle-approved beaches, the variations of this Central American paradise offer great thrills for bargain rates. Beat heavy September rains along the Pacific coast with a fringe-season surf trip, or travel inland to hike an inactive crater.

16. RIO DE JANEIRO
Rio de Janeiro is guaranteed to overwhelm your senses. The cidade maravillosa (marvelous city) is home to 37 sexy beaches that glitter against the landscape's series of verdant hills. Beyond the shore, the Christ statue-topped Corcovado and the Sugarloaf promontory leave lasting impressions on those who ascend their heights. Throw in striking architecture, a fun-loving beach culture, a vibrant nightlife (samba, anyone?), and you understand how this city of 6.1 million people has become a life-long favorite for anyone who has visited.

Why Go In Summer: June, July, and August are not Rio's warmest months, but minimal rainfall hardly sounds like a consolation prize. With Carnival over, mostly locals remain, and the surrounding mountains encapsulate a city teeming with authenticity.

See Anguilla Travel Guide | See Switzerland Travel Guide | See Dominica Travel Guide | See Kenya Travel Guide | See Turks and Caicos Travel Guide | See Thailand Travel Guide | See Southern Thailand Beaches Travel Guide | See U.S. Virgin Islands Travel Guide | See Savannah Travel Guide | See Tampa Travel Guide | See Houston Travel Guide | See Sedona Travel Guide | See Palm Beach Travel Guide | See Tokyo Travel Guide | See Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide | See Cancun Travel Guide | See Whistler Travel GuideSee Lake Tahoe Travel Guide