LVH Guide: 6 Spectacular Experiences in Latin America

Latin America is a destination full of spectacular experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. From luxury accommodations to adrenaline-filled adventures, there is something for everyone. Elite travelers with adventurous souls looking for the best of the best will find a number of unique activities, Latin America has it all. Get ready to explore some of the most exotic places in the world to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Here are six things you might wish to consider on your journey to Latin America. Some you may have done, and you may want to do again:

Magical Machu Picchu

At 2,430 meters above sea-level, in the middle of a lush tropical mountain forest, Machu Picchu is one of the most mystical places on earth. The magnetic Lost City of the Incas was rediscovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911 after being forgotten for centuries. Now a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, much of its history and purpose still remains a mystery, making it one of the most intriguing Latin America experiences. Some of the most famous sites of this sprawling ancient citadel are the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, Temple of the Condor, the Sun Gate and the Intihuatana rock, believed to be an ancient sun clock. Easily accessed by train, your first-class seats and panoramic windows make for sublime views en route to Machu Picchu village. Arrive before the day trippers and join your expert guide for an exclusive and fascinating journey back in time.

Perito Moreno Glacier

Explore the massive Perito Moreno in El Calafate in Patagonia on a private ice trekking experience taking you to the heart of the glacier. A five-kilometer steel walkway and vantage points will allow you to see, hear, and photograph the glacier. If you'd like, you can also take a one-hour boat tour around its northern edge.

River Rafting

Here are some of the best river rafting destinations in South America:

Futaleufu River, Chile: Regarded as the best white water river rafting destination in the world, the Caribbean colored river runs from the Andes Mountains from a chain of sunny lakes in Argentina before it meets the massive Pacific. The rugged mountains and lush vegetation provides amazing scenery.

Rio Upano, Ecuador: The best season to visit is from October to February when the weather is at its tropical best. It takes you from the Amazon basin in Ecuador through warm water, tropical heat, virgin rain forests and beautiful 100-foot high waterfalls.

Cotahuasi, Peru: With awesome scenery, native villages, hot springs, world-class rapids, and thrilling canyons, Rio Cotahuasi is a great destination. Visit the deepest canyon in the world – twice the depth of Arizona’s Grand Canyon – measuring 11,587 feet from river to rim. Right from the first descent in 1994, this has been a relatively unknown world class rafting spot

Colca River, Peru: This river is accessible only by raft or kayak and only a few gifted people have had the incredible opportunity to experience the breathtaking river and the ancient cultural people of the valley. Being a Class IV-V white water river rafting experience, river rafting here is quite challenging as well as rewarding. It is also called the most pristine river rafting destination in the world.

Alumine, Argentina: The waterway here runs from south to the north. This area is best suited for skilled rafters since the river is known for its turbulent water making it the most sought-after destination in the world for seasoned rafters.

Corcovado, Argentina: For river rafting enthusiasts who have just begun the journey of river rafting, Corcovado offers the best. Waters here can be heavy with a variety of fish ranging from salmon, mackerel, perch and trout. For the wildlife lover, Corcovado has an amazing range of birds such as ibis, snipes, geese and ducks.

Villa Pacifico, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

In Villa Pacifico – on the magnificent Papagayo peninsula of Costa Rica – you will find peace, privacy and grandeur. There is no better place to lay down your vacation roots than this Guanacaste luxury vacation villa which can accommodate up to 18 guests in absolute comfort. Glorious water views are only one enticing feature of this residence. Amenities include a cinema room, library, outdoor infinity pool and hot tub, along with a patio, lounge areas and a terrace for superb al fresco dining.

Ecuador and the Galapagos

From ancient Inca settlements to iconic landscapes, you’ll become a true explorer as you delve into the hidden gems that these destinations have to offer. Discover Ecuador’s pre-Inca ruins, try your hand at creating authentic local dishes at Zazu restaurant in Quito and observe some of the world’s most exotic species in the Galapagos Islands. On this trip of a lifetime, you will see a new angle even Darwin would have loved to have seen.

Hot Air Balloon Over Teotihuacán

Teotihuacán is a vast Mexican archaeological complex northeast of Mexico City. The city, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, was settled as early as 400 B.C. and became the most powerful and influential city in the region by 400 A.D. By the time the Aztecs found the city in the 1400s and named it Teotihuacán (meaning “the place where the gods were created”), the city had been abandoned for centuries. Teotihuacán’s origins, history, and culture largely remain a mystery. Experience the incredible feeling of being on high ground and seeing the pyramids of Teotihuacán from another perspective. Share a balloon flight with your family and friends to capture that picture-perfect moment.

Easter Island

Make the trek to one of the world’s most isolated destinations, Easter Island, to attend the vibrant Tapati Rapa Nui Festival, when locals gather to honor their ancestors with traditional music and dancing, and view the mysterious moai statues. The annual, two-week-long festival is held in the beginning of February. Two families compete in cultural competitions all over the island, such as music, sculpture, sports, body painting, fishing and much more. It started out as a small local event in 1975, by and for the people. The island didn't have much tourism to speak of, so the annual tradition that started to grow in popularity among the local people, remained unknown to the outside world. In 2000, tourism exploded and continued to grow to the present day, giving the Tapati festival an opportunity to grow enormously.

It is always a wonderful time to take flight and experience everything Latin America and its culture has to offer. In fact, there is still time to book a trip so you can take in the Tapati Rapa Nui Festival on Easter Island at the beginning of February. We invite you to reach out to an LVH client relations professional who will discuss your travel wishes with you. In addition to staying in the most luxurious vacation homes with full services and support, we will customize a travel itinerary for you keeping all your desires in mind to create a most glorious, memorable vacation.