Known as the most exciting continent on earth, Latin America is a large region and made up of 13 different countries. With so much space, it’s no wonder that this area also has an array of travel destinations that are sure to delight and thrill vacationers – whether you’re after a trip to learn about exotic cultures and cuisine, explore cosmopolitan cities, see the Amazon rainforest with your own two eyes, or adventure through nature at a national park. Here are the 9 best vacations for kids in Latin America.
1. Mexico
Because Mexico is one of the safest and easiest destinations, it’s also perfect for the best vacations for kids in Latin America. Relax at the beach, take a day trip to the Maya ruins such as the beachside Tulum, or watch the kids be amazed at Chichén Itzá’s laser show. If you have babies or tots that love the water, take a short ferry ride to Cozumel or check out the safeguarded lagoons and cenotes.
Where to Stay:
Stay in luxury at the Fairmont Mayakoba, which is situated on the Riviera Maya within 240 acres of tropical forest. The gorgeous waterways, clear shoreline, and white-sand beach will dazzle visitors, and the entire family will love the view from the room. The resort offers nature tails, boat tours, and even non-motorized watersports.
2. Nicaragua
Perfect for families, Nicaragua is full of friendly people and is one of the safest countries in Latin America. Head to the Granada, a lake-front colonial-themed town to learn about history before heading out on the lake. A short trip to nearby surf towns offers travelers a fantastic day trip to the beach. Younger children should swim closer, though, due to the Pacific’s strong currents.
Where to Stay:
Located in Granada, the Hotel Mansion de Chocolate is a boutique hotel with an authentic colonial setting. Five courtyard gardens will each offer travelers something a little different, and kids will love watching the sunset over the nearby Mombacho Volcano. Complete with a spa, museum, and all-you-can-eat-breakfast, this hotel has it all.
3. Costa Rica
One of the most developed area in Latin America, Costa Rica also happens to be one of the best vacations for kids in Latin America. From Manuel Antonio National Park, located right on the beach, children can watch howler and spider monkeys and chase frogs, learning about the animals they’re discovering. Then, relax at the beach or explore the rainforest. Head to Tamarindo, a surf town in Costa Rica, to explore cloud forests, volcanoes, dry tropical forests, and so much more.
Where to Stay:
The Arenas Del Mar is a five-star luxury beachfront and rainforest resort within walking distance of Manuel Antonio National Park. This hotel offers a completely unique stay, and is the perfect place to be if you plan to explore Manuel Antonio. The city of Tamarindo, on the other hand, is home of the Reserva Conchal. Known as the finest most exclusive resorts on the Pacific Coast, this hotel contains a golf course, spa, gorgeous beaches overlooking the Catalinas Islands, and an amazing tropical climate.
4. Panama
While Panama isn’t always the first travel destination that comes to mind, English is common, the dollar is widely accepted, and the country actually has some awesome cultural and gorgeous landscapes to discover. The capital, Panama City, has a fun colonial center kids will love. Or, take a boat to learn about emberá tribes nearby, explore waterways, or bird watch for hours on end.
Where to Stay:
The first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Latin America, the Waldorf Astoria Panama has premium ocean-view suites, Asian, French, and American cuisine, and amazing pool overlooking the skyline. Relax with a couple’s message at the spa while the kids play at the kid’s club or head just around the corner to a number of nearly world-famous attractions in Panama.
5. Ecuador
Take a day trip to Cotopaxi National Park, where you can explore remote indigenous villages located at the Quilatoa Loop before heading into a massive park hiding the world’s tallest volcanoes. Hacienda-style hotels date back hundreds of years, and offer visitors horseback rides, pool romps, and even the chance to interact with llamas.
Where to Stay:
A stay at the Hacienda San Agustin de Callo can only mean one thing: a historical adventure that connects with nature. Built on the site of an old Inca palace, the entire family can actually sleep within the walls of history. This location is one of the two most important archaeological Inca sites in Ecuador, and offers a variet of activities and excursions.
6. Peru
From Peru, the entire family can see some pretty amazing sights. If you have older children, explore one of the most important archaeological attractions in the world, Machu Picchu. Because the altitude is quite high (2,430 meters above sea level), the journey to reach the sight is a little tough. However, the views are absolutely amazing once you make it there. Take a trip to Lake Titicaca or explore Cuzco to complete your vacation.
Where to Stay:
Those heading to Machu Picchu will love the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, which also happens to be the only hotel located right next to the ancient Inca citadel. Offering easy access to the site clear into the late afternoon, the hotel also has tasty Peruvian cruisine from produce grown on the lot, gorgeous gardens, treks and tours, cultural ceremonies, coco leaf reading, and amazing chances to explore nature and relax.
7. Chile
As one of Latin America’s most economically advanced countries, a trip to Chile has a lot to offer for even the youngest of travelers. Perfect for adventurous families, Peru is fantastic for hiking and exploring the wilderness at Torres del Paine National Park. Get away from technology for a while by camping out on your adventure.
Where to Stay:
The ultimate adventure experience, you’ll never forget your stay at these Chile hotels. A family boutique hotel chain, the Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, or the Explora Patagonia Hotel Salto Chico are the best places for adventurous travelers. Explore, adventure, and become one with nature at Torres del Paine National Park before heading to a room that emulates a cozy hideaway so you can relax away from the world. The views of the landscape at both hotels are absolutely amazing, as they overlook the park. Explora Patagonia Hotel Salto Chico, located on the southernmost tip, however, offers over 50 guided hikes and horseback rides complete with views of glaciers, lakes, and mountains.
8. Brazil
Rio is a popular destination in Brazil, however, it’s better for a trip with just the adults. Instead, head to Brazil with the kids to explore the Amazon forest from Manaus or book a day trip, such as a high-end river cruise to become closer to nature. The forest will delight and inspire the entire family!
Where to Stay:
Stay at the Juma Amazon Lodge to really delve into nature. Located on the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, the entire family can discover everything the rainforest has to offer. This lodge provides a truly authentic and unique experience to explore untouched nature, and even offer various activities and excursions targeted at learning and explore our natural habitat. The highly knowledgeable guides make this experience one you will never forget as you mold with the wilderness.
9. Argentina
If you’re looking for a Latin American destination in the city with a little European flavor thrown in the mix, head to Buenos Aires. The cobblestone street, Eurpoean architecture, mouth-watering cruise, and tango dancing will delight those that prefer to explore city life in Latin America. The great museums and lots of activities to keep young ones entertained, and you can always check out Iguazu Falls or Patagonia if you want to check out nature too.
Where to Stay:
Buenos Aires’ most distinguished hotel, Plaza Hotel Buenos Aires, has five star amenities, gourmet cuisine, and elegant rooms located just steps away from downtown and the famous Plaza San Martin, a top Argentina attraction. As with any city, the downtown area is a hotspot for shopping, fun nightlife, and award-winning dining. Or, located in the heart of the city and an exclusive district, the Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires is also close to the capital’s business sector and all the best cultural attractions. It contains a spa, and offers family-oriented activities.
And those are the best vacations for kids in Latin America
Whether you’re hoping to escape reality and delve into nature by visiting the Amazon rainforest, explore the wilderness and natural attractions like volcanoes at national parks, or adventure through the city and learn more about the culture, the best vacations for kids in Latin America have everything you could ever dream of. Let the kids learn more about animals and nature while you take in some really amazing sights the entire family will never forget, head to the beach to relax and soak up the sun, or romp through the city to check out the amazing culture and delicious authentic food. In Latin America, there’s something for all ages.