The Llama Travel Blog

From dense jungle and soaring peaks to ancient archaeological sites and colonial cities, Central and South America boast a variety of destinations that appeal to many walks of life. Depending on your interests you might prefer to relax on a rainforest-fringed beach or visit a traditional community in a remote location. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of our top picks for 2020.    

There are many factors to consider when travelling to the Galapagos Islands. You can go land-based and stay in a hotel on Isabela or one of the other islands, or you can choose from numerous yachts, catamarans and larger vessels. Whilst these are both fantastic options, in order to reach the most remote parts of the archipelago, a cruise is essential. One question we often get asked is whether passengers are likely to get seasick, and which types of boat are more likely to cause it. In short, this shouldn’t keep you from taking the trip of a lifetime. Keep reading for some Galapagos seasickness FAQs and top tips.

The Rovos Rail is one of the world's most famous and luxurious train journeys, allowing passengers to travel in style across the unfolding landscape of South Africa. In March of this year I was lucky enough to take the two-night journey between Cape Town and Pretoria.

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?

Embarking on an African safari but you’re not too sure what to pack for the trip? Whether you are taking a safari with us in Botswana, South Africa or Namibia, these are ten essential items to include on your packing list in order to have a comfortable experience. 

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. 

A holiday in southern Africa is sure to include some incredible wildlife experiences, with countless opportunities to encounter a large number of diverse species in a range of habitat types. From the long-necked kudu to the nimble klipspringer, the wide-eyed ostrich and the spotted cheetah, the biodiversity of southern Africa is impressive and a treasure trove for any wildlife enthusiast.

Here, we have chosen a selection of the greatest experiences in the region, all of which are featured on Llama Travel’s programme of small-group tours.

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.