…with Senior Product Manager, Catrin In the next instalment of Our Routes series dedicated to sharing travel experiences from our experts all over Latin America, Senior Product Manager, Catrin Davies describes her unforgettable escapade in Argentina. From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the pristine wilderness of Patagonia, her adventure is a captivating tale of culture, nature, and the unmissable experiences that define this beautiful corner of the world. YOUR MAIN DESTINATIONS? Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Puerto Madryn, Gaiman, El Calafate, El Chalten HOW DID YOU GET THERE? I took the direct flight from London to Buenos Aires with British Airways, and domestic flights with Aerolineas Argentinas. FIRST TIME OR REPEAT TRIP? (IF REPEAT, WHAT WAS DIFFERENT THIS TIME?) A repeat trip to Buenos Aires and Iguazu, but my first time to everywhere else. FAVOURITE LOCATION? This is a really hard question to answer as everywhere was so different! Even though…
Estancia Los Potreros in Cordoba, Argentina is a beautiful, remote ranch offering guests the opportunity to experience rural life in Argentina, enjoying horseback riding, fabulous home cooking and amazing local wine. We recently spoke to Georgia Beech who works at the Estancia to find out what life is like for her… How does a typical day at the estancia start for you? My mornings vary depending on the time of year but usually, in the summer months, my days start when the sun rises. I take the dogs out for a stroll in the early morning – usually along one of the tracks. We often pass the burrowing owls, who are beginning their days sitting on the posts watching over the estancias herd of Aberdeen Angus. The dawn or ‘madrugada’ is really the best and most beautiful time of the day; it is warm but not too hot and the…
There are so many highlights in the land of Pura Vida, that it’s impossible to include them all in one trip. But for a varied experience taking in a snapshot of both the Pacific and Caribbean sides, these are our top highlights to include in your next trip to Costa Rica. Tortuguero National Park Tortuguero National Park consists of 19,000 hectares of protected land on the northern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica and includes beaches, canals and tropical lowland forest. The area is famous for its turtles and is a nesting ground for around seven species of sea turtles, including the endangered Green sea turtle. The park is best navigated by kayaks or canoes (known as cayucas or botes). This allows you to explore the park’s dense rainforest landscape, winding your way through lagoons, creeks, and freshwater passages. Keep an eye out for dozens of native species of tropical birds, monkeys, and caimans….
From ancient Incan citadels to a rich gastronomy scene, it’s easy to forget amidst the pisco sours that Peru is known for its incredibly abundant and diverse wildlife. Did you know that an incredible 1 in 10 of the planet’s species is found in Peru’s Amazon Rainforest? Having spent two years discovering the far less varied wildlife of the UK’s own more urban jungles; it’s now time to start treating ourselves to the experiences we deserve. So, to get you started with your planning, we’ve broken down some of the top wildlife experiences you should look to include on your big trip to Peru… Alpacas The smaller, fluffier cousin of a llama, alpacas can be distinguished by their shorter faces and are highly prized for their fine fleece. You’ll find clothing made from Alpaca Wool at shops throughout your stay in Peru, keeping you warm for your time in the…
For a relatively small nation, Costa Rica maintains a big reputation. A leader of sustainability, a multi-awarding winning travel destination and a playground for the adventurous, Costa Rica’s accolades are just. Below we look at some of the top reasons why you should consider Costa Rica for your next holiday destination. Leader of Sustainability Since the turn of the century, Costa Rica has trailblazed its way to international recognition for its sustainable concepts and eco-tourism. A truly pioneering destination, over a quarter of Costa Rican land, is protected, aided by commendable government environmental policies. These practices have proven to pay dividends and the wildlife, flora and fauna and natural resources of Costa Rica are all thriving. Visitors can enjoy complete peace of mind that tourism in the country is managed in a sustainable way and actively encouraged, with high percentages of the proceeds being reinvested in the protection of the…
As one of the world’s top 10 largest countries, the diversity of landscapes in Argentina is vast and whilst the big cities and urban regions relay the country’s rhythmic culture, the true beauty of the country lies within its many natural wonders. Below we guide you through some of our favourite Argentinian natural wonders. Iguazu Falls It would simply be impossible to not include Iguazu Falls on this list. The sheer force of water thundering over the basalt cliffs to the backdrop of jungle terrain is a true assault of the senses, and undeniably one of Argentina’s most spectacular sights. Whilst the falls straddle both Brazil and Argentinian borders, the Argentinian side affords a closer experience of the aptly named ‘Devil’s Throat’, best observed from elevated aluminium walkways. Perito Moreno Glacier There are few places on earth that can demonstrate the fragility and the constant movement of our natural world…
Group tour holidays are constantly evolving – long gone is the stigma of coaches full of irritable tourists traversing between tourist traps and full days spent travelling between destinations. Today, group tours are surprisingly flexible, affordable and experience led and Latin Routes group tours have a maximum group size of 16, meaning closer connections can be made as you share the wonderful memories you create. Below we look at five reasons why you should consider a group tour for your next Latin America holiday… Travel with Like-Minded Individuals As exciting as travel is – seeing new places, engaging with new cultures, trying new experiences, we also understand that for some, it can be daunting and a step outside of your comfort zone. Travelling in groups, allows you to share amazing, often life-changing experiences with like-minded people, people with shared interests who are taking the time to explore the same part…
There are few places on Earth like Guyana. With 90% of its natural beauty left untouched, this tiny country on South America’s northern coast is fast becoming one of the continents premier eco-tourism destinations as a growing number of adventurous travellers are drawn to its pristine rainforests and natural sensations. Here we look at five of Guyana’s most treasured sites. Kaieteur Falls Of course we begin with Guyana’s most famous highlight. Whilst images of Kaieteur Falls can certainly impress with its mesmerising beauty until you stand at its base it is impossible to fathom the ambience created when 30,000 gallons of water thunder down a 250-metre cliff. The sheer size of the falls and its audacious power create an almost unnerving sensation as you feel the electrifying mist and hear the unapologetic roar of the force of nature, set to a spectacular backdrop of the ancient jungle. Iwokrama Rainforest Guyana’s…
Latin America has no shortage of exceptional beaches. From secluded tropical paradises with sweeping golden sand to some of the most world’s most iconic beaches such as the Copacabana. Here we list five of our must-visit beaches, although with coastlines stretching across the Atlantic & Pacific oceans plus the Caribbean Sea, there are so many fantastic beach holiday destinations across this diverse continent… Jericoacoara, Brazil Getting here isn’t easy, but a journey where part of the route needs to be navigated by dune buggies must surely prick up the ears of the more adventurous traveller. Those who do make it to this beach in the northeast of Brazil are well rewarded with some of the continents most spectacular natural diversity. ‘Jeri’, as it is affectionally known as by the friendly locals, is much more than just a picturesque beach town, it is a national park, a mangrove swamp, a vast…
Stretching over 2 million square miles, entering nine different countries and holding over half of the world’s rainforest, the Amazon is the largest and most biodiverse rainforest on the planet. Stretching from its mouth at the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Peruvian, Colombian and Bolivian borders, the area is best explored via a cruise along the length of the Amazon River. This is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience, and will surely be the highlight of your holiday to Brazil. The Area The main gateway to the Amazon is the bustling city of Manaus. This is an ideal base for your exploration of the surrounding area, and a great place to start your trip and/or cruise. While this city is an experience in itself, the real treat lies deeper into the rainforest – either join one of the many Amazon River Cruises available or stay in a fantastic Eco Lodge…