Slow Journeys Through the Andes: A 60+ Guide to Authentic South American Travel
Are you considering a trip to the Andes in South America? This part of South America is so much more than just popular destinations like Machu Picchu and similarly well-known sites. There are many off-the-beaten-path trips that you can take to fully experience the authentic Andes and South American people and cultures.
Why South America Is Perfect for Slow Travel
The Andes is the longest mountain range in the world, running along the western side of South America and passing through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile.
These majestic mountains help visitors slow down and breathe in the beauty. And because most destinations are high altitude, your body will naturally want to move more slowly.
Also, I feel that when I visit countries rich in culture and history, it is worth slowing down and spending quality time in each area, fully taking in all that I can. Days spent in markets and eating where locals eat are among my favorite things to do when I travel. When you do this, you’ll notice daily life unfolding before you. There’s no need to rush from one place to another. And that goes for the Andes. They don’t need to be conquered; they need to be experienced.
Choosing Acclimatization Routes to Avoid Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, not just the 60+ community, and if you’ve ever been hit with it, you know how it can seriously slow you down and even ruin a trip.
When I traveled to Ecuador, I visited a travel doctor before the trip who prescribed medication for altitude sickness that I thankfully didn’t use, as I preferred to acclimate gently to the altitude.
What this means is that, when possible, choose to start at a lower elevation destination and make your way up over several days. Many Andean cities sit between 8,000 and 12,000 feet (2,400–3,600 meters). Going too high too fast can lead to headaches, nausea, and even exhaustion.
Altitude Tips for 60+ Travelers
Here is a list of simple things that you can do to help keep you from getting altitude sickness:
- Hydrate. Drink a lot of water
- Avoid alcohol for the first few days.
- Walk slowly. Don’t rush.
- Take naps when you can.
If you are truly worried about altitude sickness, you can do as I did and bring medication “just in case”. Talk to your doctor or a travel medicine specialist.
South American Highlights Beyond Machu Picchu
Many people have Machu Picchu on their travel bucket list, but South America offers so much more. Many destinations are off the radar and easier to reach than Machu Picchu.
Let’s take a look at a few authentic journeys through the Andes that you may not have heard of.
Authentic Upper Andes Destinations
Villa de Leyva, Colombia
Colombian cities like Bogotá and Medellín are popular destinations and have appeared on top travel lists in recent years. That means that tourism is high and probably saturated.
The Andes begin in Colombia and offer plenty of opportunities for slow and authentic journeys. Villa de Leyva is a 4-hour drive from Bogotá and an excellent place to spend 2-4 days, where you can get Colombian hospitality without pressure.
Villa de Leyva sits at a comfortable altitude of about 7,000 feet (2,150 meters) and is a perfect destination to discover Colombian culture without the crowds. The town is flat and easily walkable.
Things to do in Villa de Leyva:
- Wander at the Plaza Mayor – One of the largest town squares in South America.
- Visit Casa Museo Antonio Nariño.
- Visit the Paleontological Museum (the region is rich in fossils).
- Browse artisan markets for hand-thrown pottery, woven textiles, and silver jewelry.
Easy day trips from Villa de Leyva:
- Pozos Azules – mineral pools known for their shifting blue-green tones.
- Ráquira – a nearby pottery village famous for colorful ceramics
Festivals and Events in and around Villa de Leyva:
- Yearly kite festival in August (Festival del Viento y Las Cometas de Villa de Leyva).
- Astronomy Festival – This area in Colombia is designated a dark-sky region and is perfect for stargazing. The festival is held in March this year.
Where to Stay in Villa de Leyva:
Avenue of the Volcanoes, Ecuador
The Avenue of the Volcanoes is a part of the Andes that goes from Quito to Riobamba in central Ecuador. The drive is about 3.5 hours, but many prefer to take several days, stopping to sightsee and take in the breathtaking scenery.
You’ll drive in a valley between 2 mountain ranges filled with active volcanoes like Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest volcanoes.
It runs roughly through these regions:
- Quito
- Cotopaxi National Park
- Latacunga
- Saquisilí
- Riobamba
- Chimborazo region
Things to do:
- Spend a day in Cotopaxi National Park
- Take lakeside walks at Limpiopungo Lagoon.
- Look for short, flat interpretive trails.
- Saquisilí indigenous Market – every Thursday, the local market welcomes vendors from all over the highlands who come to sell their products.
- Admire the stunning scenery and look out for wildlife!
Cuenca, Ecuador
Cuenca sits at an altitude of 8,300 feet (2,560 meters) in south-central Ecuador. It’s a good option if you want city life without the stress of a big city like Quito.
A good way to gradually adjust to the altitude is to arrive in Guayaquil at sea level, spend a day or 2, and make your way up to Cuenca over a few days.
Things to do in Cuenca:
- Stroll the historic center. Cuenca’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Pumapungo Museum and Ruins.
- Go to the Flower Market in Plaza Rotary.
- Shop at local markets, Mercado 10 de Agosto and Mercado 9 de Octubre.
- Buy a Panama hat! Did you know that Panama hats didn’t originate in Panama but in Ecuador?
Easy day trips from Cuenca:
- Visit the town of Chordeleg – known for its unique jewelry and crafts. About 1 hour from Cuenca.
- Visit Ingapirca – Ecuador’s most important Inca site, about a 2-hour drive from Cuenca.
Festivals and Events in and around Cuenca:
- Independence of Cuenca – November 3
- Corpus Christi – June
Where to Stay in Cuanca:
Chachapoyas, Perú
Chachapoya is in the eastern part of the Andes in Northern Peru and is a gateway to rainforests and ancient fortresses. Sitting at about 7,600 feet (2,300 meters), the climate is cool, and the mountains are super green. Mornings are misty, and life is not rushed and perfectly low-key for a slow and authentic journey in the Andes.
Things to do in Chachapoyos:
- Kuélap – often compared to Machu Picchu. This is a massive stone complex built by the Chachapoya people. The best thing is, it receives only a fraction of the visitors that Machu Picchu does and is just as impressive. The site offers cable car access, so it’s easier to get up to.
- Gocta Waterfall – one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. The best part is you don’t have to hike long treks to get a good view of the majestic falls. There are short walks to viewpoints from Cocachimba village.
- Shop at the local markets. The markets in this area are for locals and not for the tourist scene. It’s the best way to experience everyday Peruvian life.
Where to Stay:
Getting there:
- Option A: Flight: Lima to Jaén (then 4–5 hour scenic drive)
- Option B: Flight: Lima to Chachapoyas (limited schedules)
Authentic Central Andes Destinations
Lake Titicaca’s Lesser-Known Islands, Peru and Bolivia
Peru and Bolivia share the largest lake in the Andes, Lake Titicaca. The lake has several inhabited islands and mysterious underwater ruins.
Lake Titicaca sits at about 12,500 feet (3,800meters), so it’s important to arrive after some acclimatization. Spending several slow days in the area feels like the real South America without spectacles or tourist crowds.
Islands to Visit:
Taquile Island
Taquile Island is known for its textile tradition and sprawling terraces. Clothing here signals age, marital status, and community role.
What to do:
- Walk the stone paths.
- Visit the co-op weaving workshops.
- View sunsets from the western ridge of the island.
Amantaní Island
Amantí is quieter than Taquile Island. It typically receives fewer visitors than other islands, but it is worth a visit to see the archeological sites.
What to do:
- Walk to the Pachamama or Pachatata hilltop temples.
- Learn about local farming.
- Spend evenings dancing to local music with families in a homestay.
Llanchón Peninsula
If long boat rides aren’t your thing, you can keep your feet on the mainland and still get the feeling of the Titicaca islands on the Llanchón peninsula. The terrain is flatter, which makes it more walkable if this is an issue.
What to do:
- Visit local fishing and farming villages.
- Browse the local markets.
Isla del Sol
Isla del Sol is located on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca and is larger and more developed than other islands on the Peruvian side. You’ll find Inca pathways and sacred landscapes.
What to do:
- Walk sections of the ancient Inca trail that crosses the island. Choose short segments.
- Visit an ancient Inca Palace, Pilkokaina Ruins.
There are several other islands in Lake Titicaca that you can visit – each with its own vibe and unique villages and way of life.
Tips for Lake Titicaca Islands:
- Island stays are about hospitality and not luxury. Expect shared accommodations and limited electricity in certain areas.
- If homestays on the islands feel too rustic, base yourself in Puno, Peru, and visit the islands by doing day trips.
- Don’t island-hop and try to do several islands in the same day; you’ll get better experiences in each place you visit if you slow down.
- Expect chilly nights. Remember, Lake Titicaca is at a very high altitude.
Authentic Southern Andes Destinations
Sucre, Bolivia
La Paz is the most popular city to visit in Bolivia, but the city of Sucre is smaller, less known, and sits at a lower elevation than La Paz. Perfect for a city trip that feels calm and intimate.
Sucre is often called La Ciudad Blanca (The White City) for its beautiful white-washed colonial buildings.
Things to do:
- Visit one of Bolivia’s most traditional markets, the Tarabuco Market, which is open every Sunday.
- Visit Casa de la Libertad, where Bolivia’s independence was declared.
Day trips from Sucre:
- See dinosaur footprint sites in Cal Orck’o, just outside the city.
- Learn about rural weaving communities.
Festivals and Events:
- Independence Day of Bolivia (August 6)
- Semana Santa (March/April)
Where to Stay:
Salta, Argentina
Salta combines Andean culture and Argentine comfort excellently. The city offers colonial charm and easy day tours to the surrounding areas. At 3,800 feet (1,150 meters), Salta is easy to reach and rarely causes altitude problems for newcomers.
Things to do:
- Wander in Plaza 9 de Julio.
- Visit the Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM).
- Ride the cable car up to San Bernardo Hill to admire the city from atop.
Day Trips from Salta:
- Visit vineyards and wineries in Cafayate.
- Visit the Cachi and Calchaquí Valleys to see adobe villages and stunning landscapes.
- Go to Quebrada de Humahuaca, known for its dramatic rock formations. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Festivals and Events:
- Salta Folk Festival (July)
- Wine Harvest Celebrations (late summer/early fall)
Where to Stay:
Everyday Etiquette Tips for Traveling in South America
Taking Photos
Always ask before taking photos of people. I know, it’s so tempting to snap away because in many areas the colorful attire is beautifully intricate and stunning. The polite thing to do is ask with a smile if you can take their photo and respect the answer you are given.
Greetings, Translation and Communication
Greetings are important throughout Latin America. In the Andes, through this part of South America, people mostly speak Spanish. A simple “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes” when entering a shop or when crossing people on the street of a small town is customary.
Don’t expect anyone to speak English to you. Even though many younger generations are well educated and have access to the internet, it’s best to prepare for your trip by downloading a translator app and learning a few basic words and phrases for the region you will be visiting.
Read more: 7 Language Apps for Women Over 60.
Giving Back
Without landing in South America with a savior complex and cape, because no one needs “saving”, you can generally find out where help is needed, and most of all, wanted. Before arriving with a suitcase full of stuff for the kids, find out what they have available and what they don’t.
I find that volunteering in schools, with animals, or in the environment helps me meet like-minded people and form sincere bonds.
Read More: Volunteering Abroad Destinations for Active Women Over 50.
Respect Cultures
One of the best parts about traveling to different countries is discovering diverse cultures. Most South American cultures are family and faith-based.
- You don’t need perfect language skills, but knowing a little goes a long way.
- You don’t need to know every custom, but remain open to learn.
- You just need a warm smile, an open mind, and respect.
¡Buen Viaje!
Read more: 22 Travel Destinations 2026 – Must-Visit Places for Women Over 50.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Have you traveled to one of these destinations in the Andes? Which destinations in these South American countries appeal to you the most? Do you prefer slow travel to authentic destinations off the tourist path, or do you prefer to stick to popular places? Tell us about it in the comments below.
