South America is undergoing many changes. One of them is a liberalization of laws and customs surrounding homosexuality. This means gay people can now travel to a wider variety of locations in more countries than ever before. The continent has an enthralling variety of experiences to offer and thanks to some very vocal LGBT movements it is now easy to find more gay travel to South America. Brazil has long been a gay destination but now it is going to have some competition from other countries.
Even in Brazil things are changing and gay people no longer need to restrict themselves to Rio and Sao Paulo. The two biggest cities in the country have tons to offer, especially if you want to party. However now a gay vacation in Brazil can be more varied with a trip up the coast. The area between Salvador and Fortaleza now has many gay destinations for those who want to experience some incredible beaches, colonial towns and unique cultures.
Buenos Aires has been an increasingly popular gay destination for some time and no wonder. This most European of South American cities has tons of gay bars, clubs and cafes. Palermo has some very chic gay friendly hotels and a wealth of top quality shopping and eating opportunities. San Telmo, the neighborhood for tango is also a great place to hang out and you can even take a gay tango class. The residents of Buenos Aires like to think of themselves as modern and liberal and it is possible to have a same sex civil union in the city.
Colombia is losing its scary image of the past and is an up and coming vacation destination. The capital, Bogota is renowned for cultural events and a great night out. The Chapinero Alto neighborhood is home to the gay scene. There are tons of restaurants, cafes, bars galleries, hotels and a gay grocers shop. Over the summer months there are a large number of cultural events in the city, most of them are free and the Gay Pride event is in June. Colombians are renowned for their hospitality and their love of a good time so it will not be long until Bogota is competing with Rio and Buenos Aires.
Santiago is the other rising destination in South America. There are some great places to stay and some opportunities for a top night out. The country is moving towards legalization of gay marriage thanks to a vociferous LGBT movement. Outside the capital there is an amazing array of things to do in Chile. The natural beauty and changing landscapes are unique and you can travel from desert in the north, through the central valleys of vineyards through the Lake District to the fjords and ice fields in the south. The country also has some great ski resorts.
There are also many opportunities for adventure travel in South America. Countries such as Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia provide excellent opportunities for trekking, exploring ancient ruins, climbing, jungle exploration and much more. Although they do not really have established gay scenes there are gay friendly places in their capital cities.
The popularity of South America as a vacation destination is growing. Reflecting this there are many travel agents who specialize in gay trips. The draw of places like Macchu Picchu is now pulling in more and more gay travelers.
If you want a trip full of adventure and variety check out gay tours to South America. You will find places with friendly people and amazing opportunities.
Howie Holben administers Spirit Journeys, a gay single travel organization that focuses on spiritual travel. Howie has travelled the world learning from indigenous peoples. You can learn more about Howie, his work and gay trips with a spiritual focus at Spirit Journeys website.