Couple with Nazca booby on the Galapagos Islands
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7 Best Couples Vacation Destinations in South America

User Avatar Author: Nicole Guevara
9 months ago - July 27, 2023

Reading time: 20 mins

When thinking about where to relax or go on an adventure with your partner, you should consider South America. This is a continent where you will find the perfect place for whatever you are looking for as part of your ultimate couples’ vacation in South America, a vast and diverse region offering numerous spots perfect for enjoying a romantic getaway. Whether looking for adventure, leisure, cultural encounters, or natural beauty, South America offers something for everyone!

Are you ready for a romantic couple’s vacation with adventure, relaxation, and fun? Get inspired to have an unforgettable summer when you read this blog regarding some of the best destination ideas for a couple’s summer vacation. This is often the perfect time to visit the Galapagos Islands as a romantic location with your partner and an excellent opportunity to spend quality time together and create unforgettable memories.

Based on our travel experts’ recommendations, the following are the top couple’s vacation spots in these magical destinations in South America:

Galapagos Islands

The Enchanted Isles offers one of the best south american vacations for couples out there, guaranteeing adventure, expedition, relaxation, and magical spots via our island expeditions. Also, the Galapagos Islands allow you to explore the best visitor sites from the comfort of an expedition hotel or aboard an expedition cruise.

Tourists next to a red-footed booby

Tourists next to a red-footed booby

The Galapagos Islands are a unique hub teeming with spectacular natural beauty and rare animals. Its lush islands are home to approximately 9,000 unique species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world but here! And despite its prestigious status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tourists are still permitted to visit the National Park so long as a certified Naturalist Guide accompanies them.

The Galapagos Islands are one-of-a-kind, and the incomparable opportunity to observe various animal species in their native, untouched environment is what forms a large part of the allure.

As the best couple’s vacation spot in South America, the Galapagos will offer you and your partner the unique chance to experience the following:

The Galapagos Islands are an ideal backdrop for a romantic vacation for two, with plenty of options for adventure, animal encounters, relaxation, and romance. Whether you’re touring the islands, swimming in its fantastic blue seas, or enjoying each other’s company on a quiet beach, the Galapagos will leave you with lasting memories.

Galapagos Cruise vs. Hotel

While planning one of the best couple vacations out there, you’ll find that the Galapagos offers two distinct accommodation options. You and your partner can opt for a cruise or a hotel, which provides the perfect mix of fun and romance throughout your vacation as a couple in the Galapagos.

Choosing between a cruise and a hotel in the Galapagos for a couple’s vacation will depend mainly on your preferences, travel style, and desired experience. That’s why it’s best to consider the following factors when choosing between a cruise and a hotel:

Cruise

Best Galapagos expedition cruises

Best Galapagos expedition cruises

Hotel

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel Swimming Pool

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel Swimming Pool

Choosing between a cruise and a hotel will ultimately depend on your interests, expectations, and the places and wildlife you hope to experience. So, consider each offer’s activities and entertainment options, the social landscape that will exist by choosing one or the other, flexibility, and the type of experience you and your partner wish to enjoy as a couple in the Galapagos. Either way, we invite you to visit our Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel or, if you prefer, hop aboard our selection of expedition cruises.

Peru

Peru’s grand variety of wonders is found around just about every corner of the country. Whether it’s through the cuisine, rhythms, dances, ancient ruins, or the intrinsic magic of its people, there’s something in store for every couple that comes to visit. From the capital of Lima, an average 1-hour flight will send you on your way to explore your choice of the highlands, the Amazon rainforest, and/or the Pacific coast.

Long before the Spanish invasion, various civilizations established themselves in Peru. The ancient Inca civilization, whose capital was Cusco, was the most significant and influential. Nowadays, one of the best couple vacations in South america exists in the form of a visit to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu—one of the most important accomplishments in Incan architecture that has captured the imagination of people all over the globe. In addition to Machu Picchu in Peru, the country is adorned with numerous other captivating sites, fortresses, and historical ruins that will leave visitors in awe.

Lima

Lima is a city where the differences and similarities of traditional practices and customs from various nationalities coexist. Lima, in fact, often serves as a good starting point for understanding what Peru is all about—a blend of cultures that is continually growing and changing.

Lima’s historic core, often known as the “City of Kings,” has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Numerous colonial-era structures can be seen here, the most notable of which is the majestic Plaza Mayor (Main Square), the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop’s Palace.

There are several activities in Lima for couples looking for an adventure, such as getting a sense of what life was like for Peruvian people during the colonial period or coming along for a traditional gourmet tour to learn about the mesmerizing array of Peruvian flavors. You may also start your day with a morning mountain bike down the boardwalk, followed by surfing lessons in the afternoon.

Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist in Lima, Peru

Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist in Lima, Peru

Here are some ideas:

Don’t forget Lima is regarded as one of the world’s gastronomic capitals, largely thanks to its unique and tasty food. Traditional Peruvian foods—such as ceviche, anticuchos, and lomo saltado—should make it on your shortlist of culinary delights!

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, also known as the Lost City of the Incas, is an ancient Inca fortress built in the 15th century but abandoned shortly after that. It remained unknown to the rest of the world until 1911, when it was rediscovered. The site’s outstanding architectural style, elaborate stone buildings, and terraces demonstrate the Incas’ impressive engineering skills.

The top spots to visit in Machu Picchu during your couple’s vacation are:

Machu Picchu citadel, Peru

Machu Picchu citadel, Peru

It is one of the top couple vacations when you enjoy Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience that blends spectacular natural beauty, ancient history, and architectural wonders. Exploring the ruins, seeing the surrounding mountains, and immersing oneself in the mysterious ambiance make a memorable trip. Machu Picchu’s spectacular beauty could be the best couple vacation in exciting history, and its secluded location makes it a must-see for tourists looking for a one-of-a-kind and awe-inspiring experience.

Cusco

Above in the Peruvian Andes, Cusco—formerly the Inca Empire’s capital—shines bright as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has a rich and vast history associated with the Incas and the Spanish, interspersed with beautiful architecture and vibrant culture.

Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Peru

Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Peru

There’s so much to see and do here, from traditional activities where you’ll learn about the most popular attractions to the thrill of traversing down the well-known Inca Trail; Cusco is a location that people of all ages will surely enjoy.

Cusco is a top couples vacation spot with several important visitor sites like:

Cusco has a rich historical and cultural history, providing tourists with a look into the old Inca civilization and the opportunity to explore its lovely colonial architecture and vibrant handicrafts.

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley, also known as the Urubamba Valley, is a beautiful Peruvian Andes region not far from Cusco. It is well-known for its scenic splendor, beautiful villages, and ancient sites.

Weaving workshop in Sacred Valley, Peru

Weaving workshop in Sacred Valley, Peru

The Sacred Valley offers magical spots for a couple’s adventure vacation and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with many hiking and outdoor opportunities. Should you choose to visit this spectacular region with your partner, be sure to keep the following sites in mind:

The Sacred Valley is a beautiful location that blends breathtaking natural vistas, ancient Inca history, and vibrant indigenous culture. It allows visitors to discover ancient sites, interact with local people, and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Peruvian Andes.

Colombia

Colombia boasts beautiful Caribbean beaches, rainforests, mountains, and coffee fields. The country’s biodiversity and wealth of varied landscapes allow for trekking, wildlife watching, snorkeling, and exploration.

Beaches of the Tayrona National Park in Santa Marta, Colombia

Beaches of the Tayrona National Park in Santa Marta, Colombia

This is a country that is ideal for lovely getaways. In addition to its diverse landscapes, Colombia is an inviting cradle of rich culture and warm hospitality, making your stay here perfect. The genuine friendliness of Colombians makes for unforgettable encounters and a rich cultural experience. Colombia’s natural beauty, cultural richness, adventure options, and affordability make it an excellent choice for a romantic and unique perfect couple’s vacation.

Cartagena

Cartagena, situated on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a dynamic and historic city with a rich cultural past.

Clock Tower Monument in Cartagena, Colombia

Clock Tower Monument in Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena’s Walled City (also known as its Old Town) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has magnificent colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and picturesque cobblestone streets. Be sure to explore the city walls, the renowned Clock Tower, and the small streets and alleys with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

This charming seaside city is well-known for its well-preserved colonial buildings, vibrant streets, and lively atmosphere. Cartagena’s blend of history, romance, beautiful beaches, cultural experiences, and various activities tailored for couples make it an ideal destination for partners seeking a romantic and unforgettable vacation together.

Cartagena makes for a beautiful and romantic couple’s vacation, inviting you and your partner to come and enjoy journeys throughout its incredible spots. Enjoy a fantastic connection and have fun in some of the following highlight spots:

Cartagena is a must-see destination in Colombia due to its history, architecture, lively culture, and seaside beauty. It is a city by the Caribbean that provides a beautiful experience for visitors of all kinds, whether by discovering its historical heritage, relaxing along its magnificent beaches, or immersing oneself in its bustling culture.

Medellin

Medellin, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” combines natural beauty, energetic culture, and creative urban development. It is a perfect city to enjoy as part of a couple’s vacation on our Colombia’s highlights tour.

Colorful paintings decorating houses in Medellin, Colombia

Colorful paintings decorating houses in Medellin, Colombia

Visitors here can enjoy a mesmerizing blend of modern urban development and fascinating history. Ride the metro cable cars for spectacular vistas, enjoy the Fernando Botero sculptures at Plaza Botero, and discover the innovative Comuna 13 district. Also, take advantage of the annual Flower Festival, a lively celebration of Medellin’s culture.

Some of the sites you can visit on your couple’s vacation in this part of Colombia are:

Medellin’s metamorphosis from having a tumultuous past to now being a dynamic, modern metropolis in the present day has made it an enticing tourism destination for all that choose to visit Colombia.

Coffee Triangle

Colombia’s Coffee Triangle—also known as the Coffee Region or Eje Cafetero—is a picturesque and culturally rich region. It is situated in the country’s center and is made up of the departments of Caldas, Quindio, and Risaralda.

Colombian Coffee is one of the most renowned beans in the world!

Colombian Coffee is one of the most renowned beans in the world!

If you stay in the Coffee Triangle, you can partake in many activities with your significant other. Here are some of the spots where you can have fun and relax:

Be sure to immerse yourself in the Coffee Triangle’s culture and customs. With your partner, you can visit historic communities such as Filandia, where you’ll walk down colorful streets and admire artists and craftspeople as they work on their specialties. During festivals and cultural events, you’ll also savor traditional Colombian music, dancing, and food.

The Coffee Triangle is a one-of-a-kind combination of natural beauty, cultural legacy, and coffee-related pleasures. Here you can live an attractive and unforgettable experience in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, whether you are a coffee connoisseur, a nature lover, or a cultural adventurer.

Ecuador

Ecuador is one of 17 megadiverse countries with diverse habitats, animals, and microclimates. Despite its modest size, the country showcases a wealth of distinct regions: the Amazon Rainforest, Andes Mountains, Galapagos Islands, and Choco cloud forests.

Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel

Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel

Several volcanoes line Ecuador’s “Avenue of the Volcanoes.”Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, and Ecuador’s tallest peak, Chimborazo, are among 30 active volcanoes. Indigenous Ecuadorian culture is rich. Over 14 indigenous groups have different languages, ceremonies, and traditions. Visitors learn about indigenous culture during markets, community-based tourism, and traditional festivals.

The Galapagos Islands, a renowned archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, have been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The archipelago’s exceptional wildlife includes giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Darwin’s finches. Snorkeling, diving, and animals are available.

Ecuadorian cuisine is outstanding; dishes such as ceviche, llapingachos, tornado, fritada, and encebollado are delicious. Also, try Ecuador’s world-class chocolate. Also, Ecuadorians’ hospitality enhances their stay.

Adventurers love Ecuador. Hiking, mountain climbing, whitewater rafting, zip-lining, and paragliding are available, and the different landscapes offer limitless outdoor adventures. Ecuador’s natural beauty, cultural wealth, and kindness make it a great vacation spot.

Quito

Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a well-preserved historic core. Explore its colonial lanes, see gorgeous churches like the Compañia de Jesus and the Basilica del Voto Nacional, and take in the panoramic views from El Panecillo’s viewpoint. Quito is also a good starting point for visiting the rest of the country. This destination is excellent for couples’ vacations because it combines history, culture, romance, and natural beauty.

Couple exploring La Ronda street in Quito, Ecuador

Couple exploring La Ronda street in Quito, Ecuador

Hand-in-hand, you and your partner can explore the lovely streets of Quito’s historic center. Take strolls along its cobblestone streets, admiring colonial architecture and discovering secret plazas and charming spots. Enjoy the city’s breathtaking beauty and intriguing vibe. Consider a couples’ adventure to unwind and relax. Luxury hotels and spa centers, such as Casa Gangotena in Quito, provide accommodations that will allow you to relax and rejuvenate.

Immerse yourself in the lively art and cultural environment of Quito. Visit art galleries and museums such as “Centro Cultural Metropolitano,” “Fundación Guayasamin,” and many more. Experience the city’s creative vitality by attending live performances, theatrical events, or music concerts.

Here are some ideas for activities:

Quito’s mix of history, culture, and natural beauty creates a lovely site for couples to make memorable memories. Whether wandering through the streets of Old Town together, having a romantic dinner, or discovering the city’s artistic and natural beauties, there’s something for everyone here. Quito’s rich culture, outstanding cuisine, and romantic atmosphere will all serve as icing on the cake during your couple’s vacation.

Cuenca

Cuenca, a historical city in the southern Andes, is famous for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and magnificent churches. You and your partner can explore its historic core here, see the majestic Cuenca Cathedral, and learn about the city’s famed artisan crafts. This lovely city in southern Ecuador is an excellent choice for a romantic getaway. Cuenca, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cultural legacy, and breathtaking surroundings, provides couples a romantic ambiance and various activities.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Cuenca, Ecuador

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Cuenca, Ecuador

Some of the activities you can enjoy on a couple’s vacation in Cuenca are:

Cuenca’s romantic ambiance, cultural wealth, and natural beauty make it a perfect vacation. This place is ideal for a great couple’s trip, whether exploring the city’s historic core, savoring local food, or immersing yourself in art and nature.

Mashpi Reserve

The Mashpi Reserve is a natural cloud forest in northeastern Ecuador, about three hours from Quito. It is a private reserve known for its outstanding biodiversity and conservation efforts.

The Mashpi Reserve is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, many native to the area. The cloud forest habitat is rich in biodiversity, with hundreds of bird species, butterflies, orchids, bromeliads, and animals living there. Exploring the reserve allows you to see rare creatures and observe the complex biological balance of the cloud forest.

The award-winning Mashpi Lodge is situated inside the reserve and offers a pleasant and immersive experience in the middle of the cloud forest. The lodge’s contemporary architecture coexists perfectly with the surrounding environment, with big windows and observation platforms offering stunning views of the forest canopy outside. It is an eco-lodge that provides comfortable accommodation options, excellent cuisine, and a variety of guided activities.

Mashpi Lodge rainforest reserve

Mashpi Lodge rainforest reserve

Visiting the Mashpi eco-lodge and the surrounding reserve lets you witness Ecuador’s cloud forests’ magnificent beauty and richness. As a result, it is a top couple vacation as it delivers an outstanding nature-focused experience in a unique environment. Whether exploring the forest canopy, going on guided excursions, or just resting inside the beautiful lodge, couples here will be left in awe of what they experience.

Otavalo

The Otavalo Market, located in the northern highlands, is one of South America’s biggest indigenous marketplaces. Explore the unique culture of the local indigenous people by browsing through colorful fabrics, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional artwork.

Otavalo's Market

Otavalo’s Market

Here are some of the best places in Otavalo for couples to experience:

Otavalo’s rich indigenous culture, natural beauty, and traditional markets make it an attractive place for a romantic getaway. Have fun couple vacations with a fascinating and romantic experience, whether it involves visiting the lively market, immersing yourselves in local customs, or enjoying the gorgeous scenery together.

Patagonia

Patagonia, a gorgeous location in South America, offers breathtaking views and one-of-a-kind experiences, making it an ideal spot for a lovely couple’s vacation. This vast and remote region stretches across the southern portions of Argentina and Chile, known for its diverse landscapes of towering mountains, expansive plains, glaciers, fjords, and unique wildlife. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Patagonia has something to offer everyone.

Tourists visiting Patagonia

Tourists visiting Patagonia

Some unique spots for your couple’s adventure vacation in Patagonia:

Remember to arrange your journey around Patagonia’s seasons and weather conditions, which may change dramatically at any given point. Also, consider the length of your stay, given that Patagonia is a large area, and it’s always best to allow yourselves enough time to appreciate each site.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s energetic capital city, is ideal for a romantic getaway with your partner. With its rich culture, charming ambiance, and numerous attractions, Buenos Aires provides many experiences for couples.

Talampaya National Park in La Rioja, Argentina

Talampaya National Park in La Rioja, Argentina

Here are some recommendations for your romantic couples’ vacation:

Buenos Aires has many activities and experiences for couples seeking to combine romance, culture, and excitement. In this beautiful city, you’ll be sure to enjoy the local culture, eat traditional cuisine, and appreciate the city’s vibrant energy.

Brazil

Brazil has lots of options for couples looking for an unforgettable vacation. This magical country offers something for couples with its various landscapes, rich culture, magnificent beaches, and exciting cities.

Lencois Maranhenses National Park in Maranhão, Brazil

Lencois Maranhenses National Park in Maranhão, Brazil

Don’t miss the following spots during your fun couple’s vacation in Brazil:

Before arranging a vacation in Brazil, check travel warnings, weather conditions, and immigration requirements. It’s also a good idea to acquire a few essential Portuguese words to improve your experience and interactions with the locals.

South America offers hidden magical destinations where couples can enjoy unique adventures, create lasting memories, and experience the merging magic of love and complicity in each location.

These are the top 7 best destinations for couples in South America, offering enchanting places to energize you and leave you eager to explore even more. Prepare to fascinate yourselves with the wonders that the different cities of South America have to offer!

There are plenty of compelling reasons to visit South America as a couple. To sum up, here are some of the top reasons why it is an outstanding and lovely destination:

These are just a few reasons South America is an excellent contender for the best couples’ vacation destinations. It is a continent that provides a genuinely remarkable experience for couples thanks to its various landscapes, rich culture, exhilarating experiences, and charming spots!

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