Adventure of a Lifetime: Spanish-Speaking Countries You Won’t Regret Visiting

There’s no doubt that Spanish is the most widely spoken language in the world after Mandarin Chinese. In fact, it’s estimated that there are more than 559 million Spanish-speaking people globally, with 450 million of them being native Spanish speakers.

And while most Spanish speakers reside in Spain, Mexico, and other countries in Latin America, you can find plenty of other great destinations on the Spanish-speaking countries’ map to put your language skills to good use.

If you ever wondered how many countries speak Spanish, the answer is 21. The full list consists of 18 American countries where Spanish is the official language in addition to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Equatorial Guinea in Africa, and Spain in Europe, not to mention that Spanish is the most popular foreign language in the US.

Here are five such countries you won’t regret visiting, along with some of the must-see attractions and cultural experiences you can enjoy during your visits:

Spain

The first country on our list is Spain – one of the largest Spanish-speaking countries in the world by population. With over 47 million residents, Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe and shares borders with Portugal, France, and Andorra.

As the second-most visited country in the world, Spain boasts a diverse array of tourist attractions from world-famous art museums and architecture to stunning coastal towns and scenic mountain villages. And, of course, no trip to Spain would be complete without enjoying some traditional Spanish cuisine such as paella, gazpacho, and churros con chocolate.

Some of the must-see attractions in Spain include:

When traveling to Spain, be sure to also visit some of the beautiful Spanish coastal towns, including Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, and Seville. Or, if you’re looking for a more relaxed vacation, consider spending time in one of Spain’s many small mountain villages such as Ronda, Nerja, or Frigiliana.

Mexico

Mexico is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world by population, with over 131 million residents. Located in North America, Mexico shares land borders with the United States to the north and Belize and Guatemala to the southeast.

As a popular tourist destination, Mexico offers something for everyone, from stunning beaches and resorts to ancient ruins and colonial cities. And, of course, no visit to Mexico would be complete without trying some delicious Mexican food such as tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole.

Some of the must-see attractions in Mexico include:

When traveling to Mexico, be sure to also visit some of the smaller towns and villages like Tulum, Guanajuato, Oaxaca, and Merida. Or, if you’re looking for a more adventure-filled vacation, consider exploring some of Mexico’s many national parks, including the Sierra Nevada National Park and the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a small country located in Central America, with a population of just slightly over 5 million people. Bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south, Costa Rica is a popular tourist destination for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes.

As a country with a strong commitment to environmental protection, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy some eco-tourism activities like hiking, bird watching, and whitewater rafting.

The must-see attractions in Costa Rica are mostly national parks, so here’s a list of some to consider for your trip:

When traveling to Costa Rica, be sure to also visit some of the country’s colonial towns and villages, such as Heredia, Alajuela, and Cartago. Or, if you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation, consider spending time on one of Costa Rica’s many beautiful beaches like Playa Hermosa, Playa Tamarindo, and Playa Flamingo.

Peru

Peru is a country located in South America, with a population of over 34 million people. Bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile, Peru is a popular tourist destination for its Incan ruins, colonial cities, and stunning mountain scenery.

Some of the must-visit unique attractions in Peru include:

If you're an avid hiker, you'll also want to check out the Inca Trail, a popular hiking trail that leads to Machu Picchu. Other than that, Peru is also known for its delicious cuisine, which often features locally grown ingredients such as quinoa, potatoes, and chili peppers.

When traveling to Peru, it's important to be aware of the altitude, as many of the country's major cities are located high up in the Andes mountains. This can cause altitude sickness, so take it easy and drink plenty of fluids when you first arrive.

Colombia

Colombia is located in northwest South America, bordered by Panama to the north, Venezuela to the east, and Ecuador and Peru to the south. With a population of over 50 million people, it is the second-largest Spanish-speaking country on this list.

Bogota, the capital city of Colombia, is a great place to start your journey. This vibrant cosmopolitan city alone is home to a variety of attractions, including the Gold Museum, Plaza Bolivar, and the Botero Museum. For those interested in Colombia's rich history, the Museo del Oro offers a fascinating insight into the country's pre-Columbian past.

Some of the other popular attractions in Colombia include:

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then head to one of Colombia's many national parks. Los Nevados National Park is a great option for those who enjoy hiking and trekking, while Tayrona National Park is perfect for a spot of beach relaxation.

For those looking for a more adventure-filled trip, Colombia also offers a wealth of activities such as trekking, rafting, and bird watching.

How to Practice Spanish During the Trip?

Whether you're planning a trip to Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, Peru, or Colombia, there are plenty of opportunities for Spanish learners to practice their language skills. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your trip and have a great Spanish-language learning experience:

The Bottom Line

No matter your reasons for wanting to learn Spanish, a trip to one of these five amazing Spanish-speaking countries is sure to give you the boost you need. From the vibrant culture and history of Mexico to the stunning scenery and adventure opportunities in Colombia, the Spanish-speaking world offers a vast variety of unique experiences for everyone.

However, before you go, make sure you're prepared by taking some classes at a language school and familiarizing yourself with conversational phrases and vocabulary. With a little preparation, your trip is sure to be a success.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today! ¡Buen Viaje!