The Llama Travel Blog

As an emerging and growing tourist destination, the beautiful country of Colombia is sometimes overlooked on a South American bucket list, as travellers prioritise leading destinations such as Peru, Patagonia or Costa Rica. Until recent years, travelling to Colombia was not recommended and the country’s lingering negative reputation leaves tourists feeling cautious and apprehensive about choosing Colombia for their next adventure abroad.

In reality, many parts of Colombia have now been declared safe for travel, and although it is advisable to stick to the well-known tourist spots, visiting Colombia can be a wonderfully rewarding experience. In fact, travellers to South America often name Colombia as the highlight of their trip. So, what are the draws of this resilient nation, and why should it be on your travel list? Here are just a handful of the things that make Colombia so special…

Iguazú Falls is an impressive collection of over 270 waterfalls spanning almost three kilometres through lush forest on the border of Argentina and Brazil. With the possibility of visiting Iguazú from two countries, people often ask the question “but which side is better?” Fortunately, here at Llama Travel our tours include a visit to both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides of Iguazú so you do not have to choose between them – but what are the differences?

Whether it’s enjoyed whilst cruising along an Amazon tributary, driving through the spectacular ranges of the Andes Mountains or taking a luxury train ride past scenic lakes and colourful villages, South America is home to some of the most dramatic scenery on earth. Whilst most people only consider the main destinations (Machu Picchu, Rio de Janeiro, Lake Titicaca, the Salt Flats…), often the most exciting part is getting there.

Costa Rica, a tiny country in Central America, has become known across the world for its rich biodiversity and sustainability. In an area only two and a half times the size of Wales, you’ll find smoking volcanoes, verdant rainforests, stunning tropical beaches and beautiful cloud forests. There are activities to please everyone – from spotting monkeys and sloths in the lush jungle and soaring over the treetops in the cloud forest, to white-water rafting with a view of Arenal Volcano and watching baby turtles scurry across the sand in Tortuguero. Here are just ten of many reasons to visit this charming country. 

When you begin planning a trip to Chile, Patagonia may be the destination that springs to mind first, however heading to the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile offers equally picturesque but somewhat contrasting landscapes from the southern experience. Explore expansive desert landscapes, active geysers, diverse wildlife and unique rock formations here in the highest and driest desert on earth. Find out the Top 5 Things to Do in San Pedro de Atacama.

Renowned for its world-class textiles and artisan treasures, Latin America goes hand in hand with souvenir shopping. You’ll find markets of all shapes and sizes in most major cities, towns and even the most rural areas, serving as an important trading place for the locals. Piles of fruits and vegetables lining the pavements, vendors in traditional dress chanting their prices, craft stalls laiden with alpaca jumpers and colourful textiles, locals tucking into hearty soups and slow-roasted meats - these are all common sights throughout the continent. Instead of just passing through each place, by visiting a market you will be rewarded with a more authentic experience, knowing that you are helping with the development of a local community. With this in mind, we’ve put together a selection of some of our favourite markets in Latin America, plus some top tips.

One of our customers, Mr Kilner, visited Peru and Easter Island as part of a spectacular 19-night South American adventure with Llama Travel. Have a scroll through his photos to see some of the spectacular sights he explored including Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and the mysterious volcanic island in the Pacific, almost 2,200 miles off the coast of Chile. 

I was impressed as soon as we arrived in the Galapagos. We got to Puerto Ayora port on the island of Santa Cruz and there were several sea lions sleeping on the benches, and some lazing around on the jetties leading out to sea, plus rays and sharks and sea turtles swimming around below us. We were transferred across the bay in a little dinghy to our home for the next few days – a sailing boat gently rocking on the crystal-clear water. Our cruise itinerary took us to the western side of the archipelago, around the seahorse-shaped island of Isabela, which meant visiting some of the most remote parts of the islands which you could never get to on a day trip.

Known for being the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Peru’s tourist capital is nestled in the Andes at 3,400 metres above sea level. The historic centre of Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has a mix of colonial and Inca architecture, making it a truly fascinating place to visit. As well as the 500 Inca sites and museums, the city boasts excellent opportunities for shopping, eating and trying one of the many adventure sports in the vicinity. 

The main reason the Galapagos Islands have become such a popular tourist destination is because of the ability to observe so many species of animals at such close quarters. Galapagos wildlife is fearless and will come right up to you, so you can snorkel with sharks and turtles, play with sea lions, learn about fascinating finches and walk amongst giant tortoises and iguanas. Read our blog to find out which wildlife can be found on which island.