The Peruvian Inquisition lasted for a shocking 250 years.  Non-Catholic blasphemers were the target of of the church and government. Many people, particularly the indigenous, were unjustly tried, punished, tortured,

MALI - Museo de Arte de Lima is one of, if not the greatest of Peru's museums. Over 3,000 years of Peruvian art is contained within this exquisite Neo-Renaissance building.  The

On the younger end of the islands, Santa Cruz is located in the center of the Galapagos archipelago. The largest urban center in the island chain, Puerto Ayora, is here. 

Sierra Negra (Black Mountain) is an active shield volcano on Isabella Island. A shield volcano is named as such because it mimics a warriors shield laying on the ground.  Unlike

In 1684, Ambrose Cowley became one of the first people to set foot on Isabella Island, which he originally called Albemarle Island, after the Duke of Albemarle. Isabella is larger

Down in the southern end of the Galápagos archipelago is Floreana Island.  It's arguably the only island that people visit to see the human component, rather than the endemic animals.

The easternmost of the Galápagos Islands, San Cristóbal is comprised of 3-4 extinct volcanoes and is home to the oldest permanent settlement on the islands. It is also the island

The famous Galápagos Giant Tortoises, Geochelone chatamensis, were nearly wiped out through habitat destruction, over-hunting, and invasive species, but thanks to the efforts of conservationists, the Giant Tortoises are making

Located on the southwestern side of San Cristobal Island is the Interpretation Center. It's a great place to learn about the Galápagos Islands in a variety of contexts: The unique

The remnants of a volcanic cone, Kicker Rock is a towering rock outcrop off the coast of San Cristobal. The name is somewhat disputed.  León Dormido translates to Sleeping Lion,

Located on the north side of San Cristobal, this white coral sand beach boasts shimmering teal waters, fascinating lava formations, and snorkeling.  It was also one of the first places

A highly underrated must-see, the western most volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes, Quilotoa is a 3km (2 mi) wide caldera that collapsed and filled with water and is now over

Instagrammers eat your heart out...this is one of the most photographed spots on the informal gringo trail. Swing on a precarious, but relatively safe Tree House (Casa del Arbol) while

Derived from the Kunza word for "masculine hill," this pair of stratovolcanic mountains are located in the Illinizas Ecological Reserve.  The southern peak is slightly higher than the northern peak

Plaza de la Independencia or Plaza Grande, as it's known locally, is a confluence of history, culture, and daily life.  Ecuador declared its independence from Spain in 1809 and the

The National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Las Lajas, or simply Las Lajas Shrine, is a fairy tale-looking church in southern Colombia, near the border town of Ipiales. Construction

Built in the 16th century, Church La Merced is one of the original buildings of Cali and is considered a national monument.  Located in the San Antonio historic district, enjoy

The Mountain of the Three Crosses is a daily pilgrimage for many of Cali's residents.  Known locally as "el Cerro," the hike up and down will take a reasonably fit

Translating to Christ the King, this 26 meter tall statue of Jesus sits west of Cali on top of Cerro de los Cristales (Hill of the Crystals); so called because

A quality budget stay in the salsa dancing capital that is Cali.  This hostel is 1 of 16 in a chain of hostels that span the Americas. This hostel offers

The second highest summit in Ecuador and one of the highest active volcanoes on earth, Cotopaxi is an enthralling sight whether you climb it or simply admire it from afar.

Set in near perfection of lush, rolling hills, farmland, and views of several volcanoes including the famed Cotopaxi, The Secret Garden Cotopaxi is an idyllic getaway for backpackers, adventure travelers,

The Basilica of the National Vow (Basílica del Voto Nacional) is the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas.  The Roman Catholic church towers above all else in the historic district

After riding their motorcycles from New York City all the way to Buenos Aires, Court Rand and Sylvain Gallea, understandably couldn't go back to their previous lives in the USA

The Secret Garden Quito is located in the Historic Old Town, in the Heart of Quito.  It is perfectly situated for an easy walk to a number of sights and

Looking to rent a motorcycle while in Colombia or perhaps you want to get your feet wet with an organized tour?  Then consider taking your business to Motodreamer. Owned and

Valle de Cocora is a jewel in the treasure chest that is Colombia's natural scenery.  Its name translates to Valley of Water Star.  The name Cocora comes from a Quimbayan

A truly wonderful hostel to stay in.  Quaint and beautifully situated atop a hill overlooking the lush green hillsides of Salento, guests have a wide variety of sleeping options: Private

Pristine beaches are carved into semi-circles that protrude into the jungle and low-lying mountains.  The turquoise ocean rolls gently for swimmers and the postcard worthy views will make you never

The Dreamer Santa Marta is what you get when you combine a good hostel and the enticing trappings of a resort.  An in-house kitchen whips up delicious meals and freshly

In 1478, the Spanish Inquisition was formed by the Catholic Monarchs, Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon.  While there were previous iterations of Inquisitions both

Construction began in 1657 on what was to become Spain's greatest and most impregnable fortress they ever constructed in its colonies.  In 1762, enlargements and upgrades were made that resulted

Accessible from the Medellín city center via the metro and cable car system, this ecotourist destination provides easy access to nature, bike riding, hiking, and a slightly overpriced cafe.  This

Art fans unite in Medellín, Colombia!  Established in 1881, this thoughtfully laid out museum showcases works by Medellín native Fernando Botero and fellow Antioquian artist, Pedro Nel Gómez, among others. 

Founded in 1538, this historic city within a city is steeped in history.  Old world charm mixes with local housing, bright murals, enticing eateries, and welcoming drinking holes.  Colonial architecture

Situated in the Cemetario Jardins Montesacro, Pablo Escobar's well-looked-after grave is open to the public.  Arguably not a destination to champion, it is still no surprise that many curious travelers

The Museo Botero (Botero Museum) is a must-see for any art lover.  Colombia's most famous artist, Fernando Botero, was a Medellín native who rose to fame through his distinctly voluminous

The Museo de Oro (Gold Museum) in Bogotá houses the worlds largest collection of Pre-Hispanic gold workings.  In addition to the incredible gold displays, archeological artifacts of sea shells, stone,

The indigenous Muisca people revered the 10,000ft mountain as it was an important marker in their solar calendar.  Every summer solstice, the sun would rise from directly behind Monserrate. Once

A fun, sociable hostel in Bogotá's famous historic district of La Candelaria.  It's location on the fringes of the old town makes access to the modern city center, museums, and