Every year, new destinations appear on the radar of international travelers, and in 2025, Latin America stands out once again. HelloSafe, a platform specialized in travel insurance comparison and analysis, recently published its ranking of the best countries to visit. Several destinations from the region are featured: Colombia, El Salvador, Uruguay, and Guatemala.
This ranking is based not only on traditional tourist appeal, but also on key factors such as safety, cultural richness, tourist infrastructure, sustainability, and value for money. Based on these criteria, the platform assigned each country an overall score out of 100, along with recommended activities and the best months to visit.
Colombia: Caribbean Charm and Cultural Diversity
Score: 72.2
Best season: December to March
Ranked second globally, Colombia particularly stands out for the historic center of Cartagena de Indias, a walled city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city captivates with its colonial architecture, beaches, and vibrant cultural life marked by vallenato and champeta rhythms.
The country’s geographical diversity also allows visitors to explore the Andean mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and cosmopolitan cities like Bogotá and Medellín.
Our article: Bogotá, Colombia’s Energy at the Top of the Andes
El Salvador: Booming Beaches and Vibrant Culture
Score: 71.8
Best season: November to April
Its fourth-place ranking reflects the country’s rise as a sought-after destination for travelers in search of new experiences. The coastal town of El Tunco, in particular, has become a meeting point for surfers and adventurers, thanks to its waves and bohemian vibe.
Ecotourism is also booming, with hiking trails, little-known national parks, historic villages, and a cuisine that blends indigenous and contemporary influences.
Guatemala: Mysticism and Nature
Score: 68.6
Best season: November to April
The archaeological site of Tikal, a political, economic, and religious hub of the Classic Maya world (circa 200–900 AD), is one of the most iconic and impressive of the continent.
Beyond its historical importance, it is set deep within a tropical jungle home to howler monkeys, toucans, and jaguars.
Thanks to this cultural tourism jewel, Guatemala ranks tenth and is also recognized for its exceptional natural heritage, from Acatenango Volcano to Lake Atitlán.
Uruguay: Elegance and Tranquility
Score: 67
Best season: December to March
Ranked fifteenth, Uruguay shines with destinations like José Ignacio, a small fishing village with an elegant, laid-back atmosphere.
This exclusive seaside paradise enchants with its natural beauty and refined gastronomy, featuring fresh local ingredients: fish, seafood, and premium Uruguayan meats.
A Selection of Must-Visit Spots Across the Americas
In addition to its global ranking, HelloSafe also released a dedicated list for the American continent. Alongside the countries already mentioned, the list includes Panama, the Dominican Republic, and Belize, all continuing to draw attention from travelers seeking authentic experiences at still reasonable costs.
Latin America doesn’t just compete — it inspires. At a time when tourism is striving to reconnect with authenticity, human connection, and local culture, the region emerges as a natural choice.
Its destinations, many still off the beaten path, offer not only breathtaking landscapes and major historical sites, but also genuine, affordable experiences, far from mass tourism.
Photos: ProColombia | ElSalvador.travel | Enrique Marroquin | D.R.
