Latin Routes

22/08/2024

Our Routes in Colombia…with Paul, Oliver and Mihaela! 🇨🇴

In the latest instalment of the popular Our Routes series, our Senior Sales Manager, Paul Nolan, Senior Travel Specialist, Oliver Pryse, and Marketing Executive, Mihaela Enasoae, take us on a tour through Colombia.

☕🌴 From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the lush Coffee Region, the innovative city of Medellín, and the coastal charm of Cartagena, their first-hand insights offer a deep dive into Colombia’s diverse culture, rich history, and breathtaking scenery.

🗣️ Paul says: "The drums workshop in La Boquilla near Cartagena was amazing! Kilele Son taught us about their culture and the several initiatives they take to improve the lives of local youth. I left energised and proud to have supported such a great community project." 🥁

🔗 Read more about their journey on the new blog here: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/news/2024/08/21/our-routes-in-colombia-2/

19/08/2024

Happy World Photography Day! 📷

Swipe right for a selection of our favourite shots from our travel specialist's trips across Latin America! 🌎🏅

World Photography Day encourages people to pick up a camera and capture moments around them. It also serves as a reminder of photography's power to convey emotions, tell stories, and preserve history.

From left to right:

The Great Blue Hole by Cat (Belize)
Torres del Paine Sunrise by Lewis (Chile)
Guyana Sunset by Laura (Guyana)
Rainbow in Machu Picchu by Nicole (Peru)
Rio Sunsets by Felipe (Brazil)
Catching the Flycatcher by Lewis (Costa Rica)
Atins at Sunset by Hannah (Brazil)
Cotopaxi Dawn by Gaynor (Ecuador)
Tamarindo Waves by Lewis (Costa Rica)

16/08/2024

From Brazil to the Andes: the mighty Amazon's amazing journey! 💦

The awesome Amazon River is one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders. It weaves through the heart of South America and supports an ecosystem that is unmatched in its diversity, with its wildlife ranging from pink dolphins to jaguars.

🇧🇷 While the river’s journey starts in Brazil, it meanders through several other countries, ultimately connecting distant lands and cultures before its waters reach the Atlantic Ocean.

🍃 🛶 A nine-nation army of water, the Amazon River continues its journey from Brazil, touching the lives and landscapes of eight other countries: Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela, Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname. Each of these nations adds its own unique flavour to the Amazon’s story.

Read our blog to find out more: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/news/2024/08/15/from-brazil-to-the-andes-journey-of-the-mighty-amazon/

14/08/2024

Have you seen the trailer for this year’s Celebrity Race Across the World? 🌎🤩

📺 Starting tonight at 9pm on BBC1 and then available on BBC iPlayer, South America is back in the spotlight for this celeb series!

🇧🇷 Beginning in Belém, Brazil (the gateway to the Amazon), contestants will pass through five checkpoints across South America before reaching the finishing line in the Andes in southern Chile. 🇨🇱

Which country are you most looking forward to seeing them experience?

This ain't a summer holiday 😅Watch on from 14th August.Subscribe and 🔔 to the BBC 👉 https://bit.ly/BBCYouTubeSubWatc...

13/08/2024

Are you curious about the abundant exotic life on the Galapagos Islands that Charles Darwin first discovered?

Take a few minutes to read this wonderful, long-form article from the Telegraph's Anna Selby based on her recent trip aboard La Pinta yacht! 🦭🤿🐢 https://tinyurl.com/5fcyfvph

Anna had a fabulous stay at Mashpi Lodge 3,000 ft up in the cloud forest, where she spotted toucans, butterflies, agoutis and rare orchids. 🦋🌳🐦

Anna’s journey also took her to five stunning eastern Galápagos islands. She highlighted the beauty and diversity of the archipelago and how cruising through these islands gave her easy access to remote spots and exceptional wildlife encounters like marine iguanas, frigatebirds and giant tortoises. 🐢🦭🦎

🛳️ For more information on La Pinta: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/cruises/galapagos-cruises/ships/la-pinta/

Follow in the biologist’s footsteps on a cruise of the Ecuadorian archipelago

09/08/2024

🌍✨ International Day of Indigenous Peoples ✨🌍

Today, we're celebrating the rich cultures, vibrant traditions, and invaluable contributions of Indigenous peoples around Latin America 🛖 🧺

🇵🇪 In Cusco, Peru, we met the Quechua people, all smiling in traditional dress.

🇧🇴 From our Highlights of Chile, Bolivia & Peru itinerary, we paid a visit to the Uros floating Islands, a community of pre-Incan people who live on forty-two self-fashioned floating islands made from reeds.

🇵🇦 On our Highlights of Panama itinerary, we met indigenous people from the native Embera and Ngöbe-Buglé tribes.

🇬🇾 On our Guyana in Living Colour itinerary, we visited the Makushi tribe in Surama for a traditional cooking class, close to Surama Eco Lodge included on the trip.

🇲🇽 In Mexico, on our Copper Canyon itinerary, you can visit the Tarahumara Caves and the families who live in them. On our Yucatan In Depth trip, we visited a traditional Maya house where we had a cookery lesson, including grinding spices for the recado blanco rub and slow-cooking chicken in a pib (a hole in the ground), and making a pumpkin seed and tomato dip called sikilpac.

🇧🇿 On our Belize itinerary, we visited the San Antonio Women’s Cooperative, where the cooking was delicious. It was extra special to participate in preparing it and to have it cooked in front of us.

Indigenous communities are the heart of our planet's diversity, wisdom, and resilience. Their deep connection to the land, respect for nature, and ancestral knowledge are treasures that we must honour and protect. 🪶🌳

07/08/2024

A Day In The Life Of… A Patagonian Horse Riding Guide 🐴

A native of Chile, Pamela Gomez felt the call of the wild in Patagonia, leaving the capital to follow her dream of guiding tourists on horseback through the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park 🌄

🇨🇱 Our team enjoyed a fantastic visit to the park, staying in Reserva Las Torres Patagonia and embarking on a stunning horse ride with Pamela leading the group.

🗣️ Pamela says: "Having the opportunity to work with horses has awakened in me an inexplicable passion. Being able to show the passengers and teach them more about these beautiful beings leaves me with tremendous happiness."

We spoke with her about what life is like in this epic part of the South American continent. Read her blog here to find out more! https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/news/2024/08/06/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-patagonian-horse-riding-guide/

26/07/2024

🇨🇷 Costa Rica’s Great Green Season 🌴💚

Visiting Costa Rica during the lush rainy season, also known as the “green season,” offers several unique advantages and experiences that can make your trip truly memorable.

🪷 From May to November, a transformation in Costa Rica’s already beautiful landscapes occurs. The rain rejuvenates the flora, resulting in vibrant paradises of verdant forests and blossoming flowers.

💦 Increased rainfall means that waterfalls are at their most spectacular, with powerful flows and stunning visuals. Rivers swell, offering better conditions for white-water rafting.

🧘 There will be fewer crowds at popular attractions, beaches, and national parks, better availability in hotels, and, therefore, a more budget-friendly time to visit.

🐢 On the Caribbean coast, this season coincides with turtle nesting season. Visitors can witness sea turtles, such as the green and leatherback turtles, coming ashore to lay their eggs.

🐳 Over on the Pacific coast, Southern Hemisphere humpback whales are also travelling from Antarctica to Costa Rica from late July through October.

🔗 In our latest blog, we consider the many benefits of travelling at this time, including a look at our travel specialists' trip there during the shoulder season of May.

https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/news/2024/07/25/costa-ricas-great-green-season/

24/07/2024

Explore Ecuador with our expert travel specialists! 🇪🇨 Our team ventured into the Avenue of Volcanoes, straddled the equator and discovered the colourful charms of Quito and Otavalo in an amazing trip over the Ecuadorian mainland 🤩

🌋 At Cotopaxi volcano, the team enjoyed a hike up to 4860 metres above sea level and were greeted by hot chocolate and coca tea at the camp, spotting multiple condors on the way!

⛪ A beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City, Quito is a city is bustling with life, music, street sellers and history with so much to explore in each Plaza.

0️⃣ Ciudad Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World City) in Quito is the best place to visit the zero degrees latitude equatorial line.

🧵👩‍🍳 Otavalo, less than two hours north of Quito, offers an immersive encounter with traditional Ecuadorian culture and boasts one of South America’s largest markets. Our team also visited the Tahuantinsuyo Weaving workshop and enjoyed a traditional cooking class using sustainably sourced produce.

17/07/2024

We've been shortlisted for the Best Tour Operator – Specialist category in the 2024 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards! 🙌

Cast your vote now and stand a chance to win one of eight incredible prizes worth over £70,000, including a 9-day Galapagos Expedition Cruise plus flights for two. ✈️🌴

Please vote Latin Routes as your favourite specialist tour operator in this link: https://tinyurl.com/dkhxmvz6

Thank you for your support!

12/07/2024

Our Routes in Yucatán…with Product Executive, Hannah 🇲🇽

✨ In the latest instalment of the popular Our Routes series, our product executive Hannah Finch takes us on a tour of the mysterious Maya archaeological site of Uxmal, colonial city of Mérida, the charming pueblos mágicos of Izamal and Valladolid, and discusses the many culinary delights she sampled on her trip through the Yucatán Peninsula.

🗣️ Hannah says: "I was based in Mérida, which I loved, but Izamal was also stunning. Izamal was designated a pueblo mágico (magical village) for preserving its original architecture, traditions, and history."

Read Hannah's blog here: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/news/2024/07/10/our-routes-in-yucatan/

08/07/2024

Costa Rica is a global leader in sustainability, known for its rich biodiversity and commitment to eco-friendly practices. 🌿 Latin Routes proudly supports these efforts by partnering with Kids Saving the Rainforest, in Quepos, Costa Rica, a charity dedicated to protecting wildlife. 🐒 🦜

Thanks to optional donations from bookings, we contributed over £4,500 from 2023 departures! These funds have helped to build a nursery to care for the young animals that arrive at the rescue centre and to supply medications. 🙏

Experience the beauty of Costa Rica while contributing to a sustainable future! Learn more about our charity here: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/charity/

03/07/2024

Our travel specialists Paul, Mihaela, and Oliver recently explored Colombia's vibrant destinations! From the cultural heart of Bogota and the lush Coffee Region to the dynamic city of Medellin and the coastal beauty of Cartagena, they've discovered the best places to visit in Colombia. 🏙️☕🌄🏖️

Stay tuned as they share their incredible experiences and insider tips in ‘Our Routes’ blog series, bringing the magic of Colombia closer to you.

24/06/2024

Please vote for us in the British Travel Awards! 🗳️👏

We're excited to announce that Latin Routes has been nominated for Best Travel Company to South America in the prestigious British Travel Awards 2024 🥳

Our clients are at the heart of what we do, and we pride ourselves in delivering excellent service, expert knowledge, and truly individual holidays to Latin America.

🏆 We have enjoyed hearing about the magic of your travels across Latin America over the past year, and we would love to celebrate all of our hard work and achievements with a win in our category!

🔗 Please take a few minutes to vote for us in this year's awards with this link here: https://britishtravelawards.com/btaform.php?nomLink=190

Thank you so much for your support! 👏

20/06/2024

Our proud partnership with New Scientist 🤝

New Scientist Discovery Tours offer amazing science-inspired experiences across the Galapagos Islands, with onboard experts, small group sizes, and the company of fellow travellers who enjoy the discovery of science.

📝 Offering great itineraries with a scientific focus to appealing destinations, New Scientist's experts are drawn from an extensive network of editors, journalists, academics, and authors. You will be travelling with like-minded guests who enjoy the discovery of science, leading to better interaction with our tour experts and deep organic conversations with fellow guests.

⛴️ Our New Scientist clients have enjoyed unique cruises with a highly knowledgeable team of biology, exploration, wildlife experts and conservation advocates, such as Jo Ruxton MBE, who is the onboard expert on the Solaris yacht for our 6-night cruise through the Galapagos. Solaris is small enough to navigate into bays that larger expedition ships cannot go near, so you get to truly immerse yourself in the stunning islands.

Find out more here: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/cruises/galapagos-cruises/new-scientist/

18/06/2024

Meet the incredible women of the San Antonio Women’s Cooperative 🇧🇿 ‍👏

Enjoy a cultural immersion with a visit to the San Antonio Women’s Group Cooperative in the Cayo District of Belize, which fosters community development and promotes local culture and crafts.

🧵 ‍Known for its intricate textiles, this cooperative empowers indigenous women by providing a platform to sell their handcrafted products, including textiles, pottery, jewellery, and other handmade goods, helping to preserve the Maya Yucatec culture.

For millennia, Maya women have woven elaborate baskets to collect the harvest, carry belongings, and store items. Traditionally, they gather endemic plants and trees to source fibres, adding vibrant, colourful fabric to transform their baskets into works of art.

13/06/2024

Galapagos Superyacht Sailing with Aqua Expeditions 🛳️

The Aqua Mare is the first superyacht to sail in the Galapagos Islands, owned and operated by the well-established luxury small-ship ocean and river operator Aqua Expeditions.

On a voyage with Aqua Expeditions, you can expect the following included features:

️⭐ The yacht’s 16 crew, including two naturalist guides, ensure an exceptional one-on-one bespoke service.

🛌 Cabins on the Aqua Mare are some of the most spacious available in the Galapagos, featuring refined decor, walnut veneer wood panelling, and en suite bathrooms finished in Italian marble.

🏊 Between excursions, guests can unwind in the spacious panoramic lounge, swim platform, or on the sundeck with its whirlpool bath and sun loungers, the ideal spot to enjoy the views.

🤿 Snorkelling equipment and wetsuits, use of kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.

🍽️ All onboard meals (World-Class dining, menu designed by consulting chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino), non-alcoholic beverages, house wines and beer.

📶 Unlimited access to high-speed Starlink Wifi

🚗 Small-group excursions, and group transfers to and from the airport for the company’s recommended flights, and entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park

The Aqua Mare regularly operates two seven-night itineraries, visiting either the eastern or western islands, or a combination of the two for an in-depth 14-night cruise. This year, the Aqua Mare will also feature one special 5-Night itinerary from October 6th-11th exploring the Eastern Galapagos Islands.

Find out more here: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/cruises/galapagos-cruises/ships/aqua-mare/

09/06/2024

🐳 🇦🇷 The southern right whale season has begun along the Valdés Peninsula in Argentina, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its extraordinary marine wildlife.

🐋 These majestic creatures migrate to the protected waters of the peninsula to mate and calve, offering a spectacular natural display for visitors.

🌅 With calm seas and clear skies, June is an ideal time to witness the whales' acrobatic breaching and tail-slapping from the shoreline or on a boat tour.

💦 This period, stretching from June to December, provides a unique opportunity to observe one of nature's most awe-inspiring events amidst the stunning landscapes of Patagonia.

Find out more here: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/holidays/argentina-holidays/welsh-patagonia-holiday/

05/06/2024

Welcome to Guatemala, a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history nestled in the heart of Central America! 🇬🇹

🌋 From towering volcanoes to ancient Maya archaeological sites, Guatemala offers a wide range of experiences that will captivate any visitor.

🇧🇿 🤝 🇲🇽 Combining excellently with neighbouring Belize and Mexico, our Route of the Maya itinerary across all three countries uncovers the rich tapestry of the Maya civilisation, from beliefs to architecture and from trading to cuisine.

🛕 Discover iconic destinations in Guatemala such as the ancient city of Tikal. Deep within the lush jungle of the Petén region, Tikal is a testament to the ingenuity of the Maya civilisation. Explore towering pyramids, intricate stone carvings, and the mystical atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

⛪ Venture further south and Antigua beckons with its cobblestone streets, pastel-hued buildings, and imposing cathedrals.

🌅 Nature enthusiasts will find paradise in Lake Atitlán, in the Western Highlands of Guatemala, often referred to as the most beautiful lake in the world. Also in the highlands, the market town of Chichicastenango bursts to life every Thursday and Sunday with its colourful market.

🐦 Nestled in the lush highlands of Guatemala, the Coban Region is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered on your Guatemala holiday. It is home to the Quetzal Reserve, where the elusive national bird, the resplendent quetzal, gracefully flits through the cloud forest canopy.

🥁 Rio Dulce and Livingston are must-visit destinations on your holiday to Guatemala for a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. In this vibrant town, the unique Garífuna culture thrives, with its lively music, dance, and delicious cuisine, providing visitors with an unforgettable cultural experience.

Discover more on our Guatemala page: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/destinations/guatemala/

29/05/2024

Route of the Maya: Discover the ancient sites of the mystical Maya empire! 🛕 🇲🇽 🇧🇿 🇬🇹

The Maya civilisation was one of the most influential Mesoamerican cultures, and their territory spanned present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador.

🛕Our travel experts Cat, Hannah, Alex, and Lewis from our product, sales, and marketing departments were lucky enough to have visited this incredible part of the world, taking in centuries of history and taking on big climbs to the top of ancient temples to get a view of the gods!

🗣️ Hannah says: “ Seeing Uxmal Maya pyramid was a real highlight. We went late in the afternoon, and there was hardly anyone else there. We stood in front of the pyramid and clapped, the echo sounded like the call of a blue quetzal!"

Read our new blog here to find out where you should be visiting to admire these legendary landmarks across historic lands: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/news/2024/05/29/route-of-the-maya/

23/05/2024

🌍🐢 We’re Shell-ebrating World Turtle Day! 🐢🌍

These amazing reptiles have roamed the Earth for over 200 million years!

🐢🇪🇨 Today we look back on our travel specialist's trip to the Galápagos Islands - home to sea turtles and famous giant tortoises - to spotlight how amazing these graceful creatures are.

15/05/2024

🇧🇷 Our Senior Marketing Manager Felipe returned to his home city of Rio de Janeiro recently, and was delighted with the feeling of being a tourist in his own home!

🏩 Felipe experienced staying in a privileged location on Copacabana Beach at the contemporarily designed luxury hotel Emiliano Rio, which faces out to the seafront and includes an amazing al fresco infinity pool.

Sunsets in Rio are typically met with applause by beachgoers - and we can see why! 🌇 😍

10/05/2024

Our Routes in Belize…with Senior Product Manager, Cat 🛩️🌴

Our senior product manager Cat Davies explains how her trip to this Caribbean gem included an all-time highlight in travel after discovering Belize’s Great Blue Hole, plus what other wonders await those lucky enough to take a trip to this magical country.

🗣️ Cat says: "...As it first came into view, the deep blue circle of the sinkhole initially looked quite small against the vastness of the barrier reef, but as we drew nearer, I spotted the tiny speck of a diving boat within its perimeter, giving so much more perspective of just how huge it is. It’s definitely one of those moments I’ve had that makes you realise just how insignificant we are amongst such incredible natural wonders in the world. It was a real pinch-me moment and one I’ll never forget."

Read Cat's blog here: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/news/2024/05/09/our-routes-in-belize

07/05/2024

Reasons to Belize: Did you know... ❓

🐠 The second largest barrier reef in the world is in Belize, making it one of the best diving spots for both scuba divers and snorkellers!

🍃 Over 60% of the country is covered with forest - there are more than 300 to 400 species of trees in Belize!

🐆 Belize is also home to over 145 species of mammals and 600 species of birds - you could spot tapirs, jaguars, armadillos, howler monkeys, macaws, and toucans amongst many others.

🔵 The UNESCO Great Blue Hole is 150,000 years old and 125 metres deep!

🍫 With cacao trees being abundant, Belize is a paradise for chocolate lovers. It was discovered by the Mayans who ate it during every meal time.

🔺 Between 1500 BC and 900 AD, the Mayan empire flourished in today’s Belize creating many archaeological sites to explore, including the tallest structure in the country 'Canaa' in Caracol, which has a height of 141 feet.

🏝️ Belize is known for its islands, as it has over 450 of them scattered across the Caribbean, known as “cayes”. The largest of which is the stunning Ambergris Caye.

https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/destinations/belize/

03/05/2024

Operator describes country as ‘perfect contrast’ to neighbours

03/05/2024

Partnering with the Belize Tourist Board, agents can now access a How To Sell guide for the destination, plus marketing assets and the promise of an upcoming in

02/05/2024

🇧🇿 We Belize You're Going To Love This! 🔵

We are delighted to announce that beautiful Belize is now added to our Latin list of destinations!

🌴 Step into a world of natural wonders and cultural diversity as you set foot in Belize, a jewel nestled between Mexico and Guatemala.

🤿 With its stunning Caribbean coastline, lush rainforests, and ancient Maya sites, Belize offers a captivating blend of adventure, relaxation, and rich heritage that will leave you in awe.

🤝 With English as its official language and a mosaic of cultures contributing to its unique charm, Belize offers an accessible and enriching experience. From the Creole, Mestizo, Garifuna, and Maya communities, the blend of ethnic backgrounds has created a rich tapestry of traditions, music, dance, and cuisine.

Check out our new Belizean itineraries on our website here: https://www.latinroutes.co.uk/destinations/belize/

29/04/2024

📷 Our Photographer's Tour of Tortuguero 🇨🇷 🐒🦜🐊🌺

This amazing hideaway on the Northern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is a true wildlife haven, and we can testify to that after our animal-tastic stay there!

Our marketing executive Lewis captured toucans, caiman, anhingas, three types of monkeys, hummingbirds, anteaters, iguanas, and various fauna on river tours and walks around the hotel gardens.

Swipe for some of our favourite snaps from Tortuguero ▶️

22/04/2024

🌎 Happy Earth Day! 🌎

We're appreciating the beauty and diversity of Latin America, a region that is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders on our planet, and Earth Day is a celebration in support of environmental protection and awareness.

Did you know that;

🇺🇾 Uruguay - in a typical year, 98% of Uruguay's grid is powered by green energy.

🇨🇷 Cost Rica - Also a leader in renewable energy output, deforestation has successfully been reversed in Costa Rica in the past decade.

🇨🇱 Chile - Rapidly expanding its renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar and wind power, the solar thermal tower Cerro Dominador has become a symbol of Chile’s energy revolution against climate change.

🇧🇷 Brazil - Hydroelectric dams account for the majority of Brazil's electricity generation. Additionally, Brazil has been investing in wind and solar power, with significant growth in these sectors in recent years.

15/04/2024

🌎👩‍🎨 Celebrating World Art Day! 🎨 🖌️

🇺🇾 Today we're honouring the beauty, creativity, and diversity that art brings to our world by showing you our visit to the region of Maldonado in Uruguay, home to many artistic institutions including Cacapueblo Museum, the Atchugarry Museum, and the famous La Mano sculpture in Punta del Este.

🖼️ Casa Pueblo is a fascinating landmark located in Uruguay, known for its unique architecture, cultural significance, and stunning coastal views.

🔼 The Atchugarry Museum showcases a diverse range of contemporary artworks, including sculptures, paintings, installations, and other forms of visual art. Its architecture and surroundings often complement the exhibits, providing visitors with an immersive experience.

🖐️ "La Mano" is a famous sculpture created by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal, which depicts a hand emerging from the sand. It has become an iconic symbol of Punta del Este and attracts tourists from all over the world.