South American destinations win major honors at World Travel Awards 2026

Several South American destinations and attractions have received major honors at the 2026 World Travel Awards.

Peru secured six awards, including titles for Leading Destination, Leading Culinary Destination, Leading Cultural Destination, Leading Nature Destination, and Leading Contribution to Sustainable Tourism in South America. Additionally, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu was named the Leading Tourist Attraction in South America.

Chile earned four awards, being recognized as the Leading Cruise Destination, Leading Adventure Destination, and Leading Green Destination in the region. Sernatur Chile also received the award for Leading Tourism Office in South America. Within the country, the Concha y Toro Wine Center was named South America’s Leading Tourism Winery 2026.

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, was named the Leading Urban Destination in South America, surpassing other major regional cities such as Buenos Aires, Bogotá, and Santiago.