About 35 minutes south of the Nuquí Airport by boat, hot springs, known as termales, gurgle in the towering rain forests of the Pacific Ocean. Set along a small sand road near Morromico beach on Colombia's western coast, this fishing community hosts tourists from around the world to relax along its undeveloped coastline.

The hot springs are a few hundred yards from the beach along a jungle stream. While you soak, you can make your own mud mask from the sulfurous clay by the river. Massage and other spa services are also offered at the spring. The small admission fee and restaurant support the nearby school and other community services.

Poisonous frogs, howler monkeys, and toucans are easy to see on short hikes into the Chocó jungle with the help of local guides. Migrating whales are easily visible between July and October.