Livingston is a small coastal town in Guatemala's Izabal department, situated where the Río Dulce meets the Caribbean Sea. Unlike much of the country's interior, Livingston is reached primarily by boat, with regular water transport connecting it to Puerto Barrios and Río Dulce. The town is surrounded by tropical vegetation, waterways, and Caribbean coastline, giving it a distinct geographic setting within Guatemala.
The 300 square mile Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is reached by taking the Georgeville turnoff at mile 65 of the Western Highway. After going through miles of tropical jungle you will be in a forest of tall pines growing amongst wildflowers and grasses. The area has whitewater rivers, waterfalls and cave systems.
Georgetown, Guyana’s capital, is a city of wooden cathedrals, tree-lined canals, and street corners alive with music, food, and political discussion. Located at the mouth of the Demerara River, the streets still follow the Dutch grid system, and the city’s architectural signature, with its elegant wooden buildings with louvered shutters and fretwork, make it one of the most visually distinct capitals in South America.
Manhattan Beach is a coastal city in Los Angeles County, California, located along Santa Monica Bay between El Segundo and Hermosa Beach. Its setting combines a broad sandy shoreline with gently sloping residential streets, small commercial districts, and a compact downtown near the ocean.
Papua New Guinea is a land of surprises, where misty highlands give way to tropical coasts and vibrant festivals stir every sense. In the Highlands, the air carries the echoes of ceremonial drums and elaborate sing‑sings like the famed Goroka Show, where over 100 tribes gather in September to perform dances adorned with feathered headdresses, body paint, and the haunting clay masks of the Asaro Mudmen.
Nestled in the heart of Peru's Amazon rainforest, Puerto Maldonado serves as a gateway to one of the world's most biodiverse regions. This vibrant city, often referred to as the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, offers a unique opportunity to explore lush rainforests, encounter exotic wildlife, and experience the rich culture of the Amazonian tribes. The nearby Tambopata National Reserve and Manu National Park are prime destinations for eco-tourists and adventurers alike.
Visitors to Puerto Maldonado can embark on thrilling jungle expeditions, where they may spot the elusive jaguar, playful monkeys, and colorful macaws. The city's location along the Madre de Dios River makes it ideal for boat tours, providing a serene way to explore the waterways and spot wildlife from the comfort of your vessel. Guided tours often include visits to local indigenous communities, where travelers can learn about traditional customs and crafts, enriching their understanding of Amazonian culture.
The area's natural beauty is complemented by its commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. The lodges and eco-resorts around Puerto Maldonado are designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, offering eco-friendly amenities and immersive experiences that minimize environmental impact. This commitment helps preserve the pristine environment and supports local conservation efforts.
Fun fact: Puerto Maldonado is named after the Spanish explorer Pedro Maldonado, who was one of the first Europeans to explore the Amazon basin. The city’s name reflects its deep connection to the history and exploration of the Amazon, making it not only a destination for nature lovers but also for those fascinated by the legacy of early explorers
Other Popular Destinations in Peru
Cusco
Cusco once served as the heart of the Inca Empire, and that legacy still shapes every corner of the city even as it serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Outside the historic center, the ruins of Sacsayhuamán overlook the city from a nearby hilltop. This ceremonial complex is best known for its massive zigzag stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons. During the Inti Raymi festival in June, thousands gather here to reenact ancient Andean rituals.
Lima
Lima's sprawling size and unique embrace of both past and present make it an unforgettably unique destination. Colonial architecture, gastronomical delights, and art are all part of the fabric of this city.