Eric Stoen of Travel Babbo travels to South America every year, both with and without his kids. We asked him why others should look south for their next vacation.
South America
Long before I had kids, I took my first trip to South America, traveling throughout Peru with a friend, and doing the four-day hike to Machu Picchu. I feel in love with Peru and wanted to see more of the continent. Since then I’ve visited Argentina and Chile many times, as well as Brazil, Ecuador, Uruguay and Colombia, and I have Bolivia on my list for this year.
I’ve been recommending South America for family vacations for years. We’ve found travel there to be easy with kids, and coming from the US, there’s virtually no jet lag — important if you want to head down for a one-week school vacation. But why specifically would I recommend South American travel?
The Islands
The Galapagos should be on everyone’s travel list. We loved the animals (of course) and the sheer diversity of the islands. But include Easter Island in your travels as well. Beyond the iconic Moai statues, Easter Island has a fun Polynesian feel — sort of a cross between Hawaii and Tahiti.
The Galapagos are diverse – and stunning!
The famous Moai of Easter Island, at Tongariki
Hanga Roa, Easter Island at sunset is perfect
The Cities
For me, South American cities are about street food and cafes, public art, markets and cobblestones. Yes, there are large cities, but within those cities there are always charming places to stay and be a pedestrian. As capitals go I love Santiago, Quito and Montevideo. But Cartagena, Colonia and San Pedro de Atacama are even more inviting.
Walking around Cartagena, Colombia
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
The central square in Manaus, Brazil
Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
The colorful La Boca area of Buenos Aires, Argentina
The Church and Monastery of St. Francis in Quito, Ecuador
The Outdoors
We seem to hike everywhere we go in South America. We’ve also kayaked, snorkeled, rafted and cycled. And then there are the natural wonders like Iguazu Falls, on the border of Argentina and Brazil (we visited the Argentine side) and the animals everywhere.
Hiking in Chilean Patagonia
Photographing in stunning La Yesera, in Quebrada de las Conchas, Argentina
Cycling in Argentinian Patagonia (with sheep)
On a boat on the Rio Preto, in Brazil’s Amazon Rainforest. Perfect reflections!
Chile’s Atacama Desert
The Remote Lodges
We’ve loved our stays at remote lodges throughout South America — places in stunning settings where all activities and meals are organized by the lodges. And I’m always searching for new destinations, so please comment below if you know of other amazing family-friendly properties.
Mirante do Gavião in Brazil’s Amazon Rainforest
So what are you waiting for? Book a trip to South America today. It’s an absolutely amazing continent, with so much to see and do. And have an empanada for me when you’re there!
Eric Stoen
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I’ve only been to Peru, but I’d love to go back and explore more of South America! Your photos are beautiful!