Situated on a sacred Inca site, this 16th-century cathedral took nearly 100 years to build.

This geometric feat is a testament to the Incas' mesmerizing architectural abilities.

The mysterious "Candelabra of the Andes" could represent anything from a god's trident to a hallucinogenic plant.

The stones of this Incan wall complex fit together so well you couldn't fit a piece of paper between some of them.

If you’ve ever seen a picture of Machu Picchu, then you’ve seen a picture of Huayna Picchu—you just didn’t realize it.

An unexpected desert oasis in South America.

Preserved Inca city and site of the last Inca stronghold against the Spanish conquistadors.

The intricate stonework of Machu Picchu serves as a testament to Incan engineers.

These mammoth-yet-narrow crevasses in the Earth are perfect for taking an otherworldly swim.

Ecuador’s historic seat of government has been quietly looted in recent decades, and no one knows how or by whom.

An exhibition devoted to the life (and posthumous taxidermy form) of the last known representative of the Pinta Island Tortoises.

Building this tragically pointless stone barrier cost the lives of the prisoners made to build it.

This museum’s collection includes rescued birds, fine art, and a collection of shrunken heads.

Legend says if this neo-Gothic basilica is ever officially completed, the world will come to an end.

Quito's historic, main square dates back to the 16th century.

It took 160 years to complete the most ornate church in Ecuador.

A swing to dangle you off the very edge.

In the middle of one of South America's most historic walled cities lies a bar with an enormous collection of Soviet memorabilia.

Outdoor escalators and art have helped change what was once a notoriously dangerous part of Medellín.

The world's tallest palm trees look like the whimsical kind of plant you'd find in a Dr. Seuss story.

An unusual and beautiful form of mass transit serves the city's steepest neighborhoods.

A 10 million-ton rock once worshiped by the Tahamies Indians, accessed by an astounding staircase.

The Andean town where every single building is decorated with a brightly colored frieze.

Iconic red and white plaques show the creative names invented to navigate the city streets.