Highlights of South America vacation

South America is the home of some of the most beautiful landscapes, eco-systems and rainforests in the world. It is paramount that we do what we can to protect these areas for future generations and that is why we have an in depth environmental welfare policy which is available for all customers. It highlights how every person can do their part to protect these destinations no matter how small the act may seem. On this small group tour, we visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu, the Amazon Jungle, the Uyuni Salt Flats and Laguna Colorada National Park and Iguazu Falls, to name a few. All of these locations are unique to South America and by bringing customers here we believe we are educating people in the natural beauty of the world and the importance of protecting it. Moreover, the money spent on entrance fees goes back into the restoration and protection of such sites.

During our time in the Amazon Jungle we stay in eco-lodges in the depths of the rainforest. The lodges are designed with nature in mind - using indigenous materials that do not alarm or disrupt the local wildlife. All rooms have private bathrooms however hot water is limited in order to preserve local resources. For this reason electricity is also limited and oil lamps are used as guidance along the walkways in the evenings. The lodge does have water filters and so we recommend customers bring their own reusable water bottle. In summary, the lodge works hard on sustainability and we are happy to continue supporting these efforts by bringing customers here.

This tour includes the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, where we camp for three nights. First and foremost, camping is possibly the most environmentally friendly accommodation option out there - you pitch your tent and no electricity or other resources are used. On top of this, the experience of camping up in the Andes is something you will never forget. Naturally, walking to reach your destination has no carbon footprint and so the Inca Trail is a very environmentally friendly excursion. While on the trail, we ensure that no rubbish or litter is left behind, flora and fauna is not disturbed and nothing but footprints is left behind.

During our time in the Uyuni Salt Flats and Laguna Colorada we stay in basic hostels. Electricity and hot water are limited because resources here are extremely scarce and we do not want to stay in accommodation that uses unnecessary resources. While facilities are basic, the experience is special and nothing will compare to sitting under the night sky with some of the most beautiful and clear starry-skies above you.

When meals are not included on this trip, our tour leaders encourage customers to eat in smaller and locally owned restaurants and food markets. Eating local produce and foods native to that country, or neighbouring countries, reduces the demand for international produce that will have been shipped in with a high carbon footprint. South America has an abundance of delicious local food and for the most authentic experience we encourage all customers to indulge in this.