10 Latin America hidden gems you need to visit before they become too popular
Victoria Leandra, a travel journalist born and raised in Puerto Rico, has spent the past three years exploring Latin America. This journey has allowed her to delve deeper into her roots and explore different facets of her identity. Throughout her career, she has visited some of the region’s most breathtaking hidden gems—places that remain off the beaten path but are full of beauty, adventure, and authentic culture.
Here are 11 under-the-radar destinations she recommends adding to your bucket list before they become tourist hotspots:
1. Eje Cafetero, Colombia
Colombia’s coffee region, the Eje Cafetero, is a paradise of rolling hills and charming towns like Salento and Filandia. Visitors can enjoy traditional coffee farm tours, hike through the Cocora Valley with its towering wax palm trees, or relax in the thermal springs of Manizales.
2. Maras, Peru
Nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Maras is home to ancient salt mines that have been in use since pre-Incan times. The terraced landscape of salt pools is mesmerizing, and nearby, the Moray archaeological site offers an impressive set of circular terraces believed to have been an ancient agricultural laboratory. The Mountain View boutique hotel, surrounded by wild llamas, is a must-visit for a unique jacuzzi experience.
3. Little Corn Island, Nicaragua
Off Nicaragua’s eastern coast, Little Corn Island offers a tranquil Caribbean escape with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. The island, free of cars, exudes charm and a relaxed atmosphere. Yemaya Reefs, the island’s largest hotel property, offers unforgettable deep tissue massages and yoga sessions, ideal for a wellness-focused vacation. Be sure to try the local dish, rondon!
4. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, is one of Earth’s most surreal landscapes. During the rainy season, the flats transform into a giant mirror reflecting the sky, creating a dreamlike experience—ideal for proposals and stargazing, thanks to minimal light pollution. It’s also a top destination for astrophotography tours.
5. Antigua, Guatemala
Known for its impressive volcanoes, Guatemala offers adventurous visitors the chance to hike up Pacaya Volcano near Antigua, where you can enjoy pizza cooked by volcanic heat. For the daring, witness Volcán de Fuego’s constant activity from the nearby Acatenango Volcano. The overnight hike to Acatenango’s summit provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch Fuego’s eruptions light up the night sky.
6. La Parguera, Puerto Rico
La Parguera is a charming coastal village in southwestern Puerto Rico, famous for its bioluminescent bay. At night, the waters glow with a magical blue-green light, thanks to microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates. By day, you can snorkel through coral reefs, kayak through mangrove channels, and savor fresh seafood and mofongo at local restaurants.
7. Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico
If whale watching is on your bucket list, Loreto is the place to be. Home to the Loreto Bay National Park, nicknamed “The Aquarium of the World,” this park includes five main islands and over 800 species of fish and marine life. Activities like snorkeling, diving, and whale watching are plentiful, and the oldest cave paintings in the Americas can be found in the Sierra de Francisco Mountains.
8. Havana, Cuba
Havana, Cuba’s capital, is a vibrant city that feels like a step back in time. Stroll through the colorful streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where classic cars and colonial architecture set the scene. Enjoy live music in the plazas, visit historic landmarks like El Capitolio and the Malecón, and savor the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine.
9. Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Located on Costa Rica’s northwestern Pacific coast, Guanacaste is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, including Playa Tamarindo, Playa Langosta, and Playa Conchal. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just looking to relax by the ocean, these beaches cater to all tastes. The region is also known for its diverse ecosystems and sustainable tourism practices, making eco-lodges like Cala Luna, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, a must-stay.
10. San Blas, Panama
An archipelago of 365 islands and cays, San Blas offers an unspoiled Caribbean escape. Managed by the indigenous Guna people, the islands are known for their crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Visiting local Guna villages provides an authentic cultural experience, where you can learn about their traditional way of life, customs, and crafts.
These incredible destinations, whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, await your discovery before they become the next big tourist hotspots. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through Latin America's hidden gems.
