Belize
#3 in Best Places in Central and South America
Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Belize offers scenic shorelines, unique wildlife and some of Central America’s best dive sites. Snorkeling and diving in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Great Blue Hole are major draws, but so are the country’s ancient ruins, animal sanctuaries and relaxing beaches. To see Xunantunich and Caracol, two of Belize’s best-known Mayan ruins, venture about 75 miles southwest of Belize City to the Cayo District.
Quito
#4 in Best Places in Central and South America
Not only does Quito, Ecuador, boast one of the highest elevations in the world among capital cities (9,350 feet above sea level), but the entire city is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take time to get yourself acclimated to the altitude by admiring the historic city center’s buildings, which are some of Latin America’s best-preserved and least altered. To learn more about Ecuador and to view an impressive collection of pre-Colombian archaeology and Inca artifacts, peruse the Museos del Banco Central. When you’re ready to climb higher, head to the TelefériQo gondola for unparalleled views of Quito.
