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LATA Winter Media Newsletter – What’s new for 2025

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As we look ahead to 2025, LATA is pleased to share new product, tours and information from across the membership. As always, if we can help with any stories or input into features, please do not hesitate to contact us.

LATA’S MEDIA NEWS

LATA recently hosted its first press supper, with six members and six media joining for a private dinner at LIMA Cantina in Covent Garden. It was wonderful to see everyone sharing stories and ideas around the table, and we hope to see them come to fruition with trips in the new year. If you would like to attend a press supper in 2025, please register your interest with Katie

LATA Expo will return in June 2025 at the De Vere Beaumont Estate in Old Windsor. To register for a the media day on 3 June please email Katie

Please do note that places are limited for both these events and registration doesn’t guarantee a place.

For all media enquiries please email katie@lata.travel

 

NEWS FROM ACROSS THE LATA MEMBERSHIP

DESTINATION NEWS

 

ARGENTINA

ARGENTINA ON THE GO: Francis Mallmann Route, a Luxury Gastronomic Journey

Featuring the acclaimed cuisine of Argentine chef Francis Mallmann who is known for his open-fire cooking, this new tour covers charming locations in Argentina and Uruguay, offering the opportunity to savour the culinary technique of this prestigious chef, centred around fire and natural surroundings. Mallmann currently runs 9 restaurants worldwide: Patagonia Sur (Argentina), Los Fuegos (Miami), Fuego de Apalta (Chile), 1884 Restaurant (Argentina), Garzón (Uruguay), Bodega Fuegos (Argentina), Orégano (Mendoza), Mallmann at Chateau La Coste (France)It offers

The sea, the imposing Andes Mountain range, wine, or the architectural diversity of the capital city, Buenos Aires, will be just a few of the settings to enjoy Mallmann’s delicacies. This itinerary not only promises delicious food but also provides an immersion into local customs and Argentine traditions.

Price: From £5,751.75 excluding international flights.

Find out more here

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BOLIVIA

Celebrating its bicentennial in 2025, events are set to take place across the country throughout the year to mark this anniversary. The capital, La Paz, is emerging as a food hotspot, with new openings and chefs gaining recognition on the global scene. Marsia Taha, who was named Latin America’s best chef by the 50 World’s Best, has left Gustu to establish her own restaurant that spotlights culinary techniques of the Amazonian communities

Find out more here

 

BRAZIL

EMBRATUR: New flight to Manaus from Lisbon

TAP Air Portugal resumed its direct flights from Lisbon to Manaus, in November, reconnecting Europe to the Amazon region three times a week. Flights depart Lisbon at 10:35 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, arriving in Manaus at 18:20 local time, with the return flights leaving Manaus at 19:35 and landing in Lisbon the next morning.

 

CHILE

HOTEL LAS TORRES: Sustainability updates

The team at Restaurante Coirón, part of Hotel Las Torres in Torres del Paine National Park, has implemented several initiatives to reduce food waste, and better manage the waste that is created. Francisca Guzmán, who is responsible for sustainable initiatives in the hotel’s kitchens, came up with a series of products that aims to use eggshells and vegetable scraps to create utensils that can be used in the restaurant’s service.

Find out more here.

Las Torres Patagonia also commissioned the production of 6,000 backpacks and 7,700 dry bags made from recycled plastic. This project removes 15,000 m² of plastic fabric from circulation, preventing it from ending up in landfills. The 20-litre backpacks are waterproof and designed to withstand the challenging Patagonian climate, thanks to their materials and construction.

Find out more here.

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HOTEL LAS MAJADAS: Celebrates the Harvest Festival

Chile is a country globally recognised for its wine-making richness, thanks to its climate and geographical complexity. The Harvest Festival (Fiesta de la Vendimia) is one of the most important dates of the year: the culmination of the winemaking process, where the vineyards celebrate.

On Saturday, April 5, 2025, Hotel Las Majadas will celebrate the Wine Festival with an exciting event featuring the most important wineries from the Maipo Valley. Enjoy great conversations around wine, with music, tastings, and local cuisine, all under the shade of the century-old trees in the park.

Price: From USD 538 in a Superior Park Double Room includes event ticket, three-course dinner paired with wine at Restaurant Sequoia, accommodation for two people, complimentary wine, and buffet breakfast.

Find out more here.

 

COLOMBIA

PHOENIX DMC: Poderosas Challenge: Empowerment Trek to Ciudad Perdida

The Poderosas Challenge is a new transformative 5-day trek in Colombia’s Ciudad Perdida (Lost City), blending adventure with social impact for travellers.

Here’s why it stands out:

  • Empowerment through Adventure: Participants engage in a physically and mentally rewarding journey that supports vulnerable Colombian youth
  • Social Impact: All proceeds directly fund the Poderosas Foundation, providing vital sexual education and promoting equality.
  • Cultural Immersion: Travelers connect with indigenous communities in the Sierra Nevada-Santa Marta, experiencing their rich heritage firsthand alongside members of the Poderosas NGO.
  • Unforgettable Experience: Participants trek through breathtaking landscapes, forge new friendships, and return home with a sense of accomplishment.

Price: From £570 GBP per person (based on current conversion rates) including accommodation, meals, local guides, transportation during the trip, contribution to the Poderosas Foundation. International flights are not included.

Dates: 7– 11 March 2025

For more information visit here

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COSTA RICA

JOURNEY COSTA RICA: New for 2025

New hotels opening in Costa Rica in 2025 include the Waldorf Astoria Punta Cacique and Nekajui, Ritz-Carlton Reserve on the stunning Papagayo Peninsula. These properties promise to set a new bar for hospitality in the region. Upcoming destinations such as Nosara also should be on everyone’s radar for 2025.
Beyond Costa Rica, we’ve been extending our relentless exploration into Panama. From the islands of Bocas del Toro to the exclusivity of Islas Secas Resort, we now offer Panama as the perfect mix of island and city escapes. 
Read more here

Journey Costa Rica believes that business has the power to create a positive impact. We aim to be radical in our approach to travel – generating positive change as well as reducing negative effects – while offering high touch, creative trips for the most discerning of travellers. We’re thrilled to partner with the Bosque Vivo Foundation. This family-led initiative is dedicated to reforesting and rehabilitating Costa Rica’s high-altitude forests, the first and currently the only project to do so in the country. Journey Costa Rica charges every guest a conservation fee, which goes directly to Bosque Vivo to support their invaluable work. We love connecting our travellers with hands on sustainable experiences, from meeting up with local conservationists and visiting biological research stations, to planting trees as part of reforestation programs.

Read more here

Journey Costa Rica is launching a range of new excursions and micro-expeditions including an overnight catamaran to the Islas Murciélagos, an archipelago of remote islands on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast near Guanacaste. Alternatively, guests can join an overnight hike into the Pacuare River region, which includes crossing the river by wire basket before adventuring deep into the rainforest with a private guide. Guests can also take a scenic helicopter flight to and from the Witch’s Rock and then hike around the river near to the base of the Rincón de la Vieja volcano.

RIO PERDIDO LODGE: Rio Perdido Unveils New Sustainable West Bungalows

Rio Perdido in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, introduces eight new eco-luxury West Bungalows, blending comfort with sustainability in a rare tropical dry forest. Nestled near the Rio Blanco Canyon, each 950-square-foot bungalow features Costa Rican-sourced materials, handcrafted decor, and dual terraces with mineral-fed tubs and outdoor showers. Designed by Studio Saxe, the bungalows offer exclusive amenities like local artisan bath products, curated coffee, and in-room massage services. Guests enjoy immersive experiences, from morning yoga to organic garden tours, in harmony with nature. Starting at $800 per night, the West Bungalows redefine luxury with a commitment to environmental consciousness and holistic wellness.

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LOS ALTOS RESORT: Upgrades and improvements

Set in the vibrant rainforest of Manuel Antonio, Los Altos Resort has unveiled thoughtful improvements to elevate its status as a premier destination for luxury travellers. These upgrades are designed to provide unforgettable experiences for guests seeking a blend of sophistication, relaxation, and natural beauty. The renovated spa, now featuring breathtaking vistas of the Pacific, offers a tranquil escape for guests. With a refreshed menu of holistic treatments—massages, facials, and rituals—it’s the perfect retreat for pre-event relaxation or rejuvenation after a celebration. A new coffee shop brings a fresh twist, offering a curated selection of wines and charcuterie boards alongside a wide range of coffees and pastries.

 

ECUADOR/GALAPAGOS

GOLDEN EXPERIENCES: Wellness & Wildlife: An Unforgettable New Journey Through the Amazon and Galapagos

Discover the best of Ecuador with Golden Experiences & Travel through the new Wildlife and Wellness Itinerary—a 7-night immersive journey in the Amazon Rainforest and the Galapagos Islands.

Begin with a 3-night retreat at La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat, where wildlife exploration meets wellness. Enjoy yoga sessions, spa treatments, and canoe rides through jungle waterways while spotting exotic birds and learning about the Amazon’s rich biodiversity.

Next, embark on a 4-night premium luxury cruise with Golden Galapagos, visiting iconic Galapagos sites. Snorkel with marine life, kayak in pristine waters, and indulge in Ecuadorian-inspired cuisine aboard our spacious catamarans.

Price: From £6,400 per person based on two guests sharing including accommodation at La Selva, luxury cruise, guided wildlife activities, meals, and local transfers. Flights not included.

Dates: Available year-round starting January 2025.

For more information visit here

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SACHA LODGE: New Private Birding Itineraries

Sacha Lodge, one of the premiere jungle lodges in the Ecuadorian Amazon, is thrilled to announce a new series of private birding itineraries, ranging from four to eight days. Of the 1,600 bird species registered in Ecuador, 600 have been seen at Sacha Lodge. For avid birdwatchers, Sacha Lodge will provide specialist birding and nature guides who know the best spots for hard-to-find species and can help identify them by sight and sound. Highlights of the new birding itineraries include the Canopy Exploration Crane, night expeditions, the Yasuni Parrot Clay Lick, the Canopy Walk, the Kapok Tower, and more.

These new tours allow guests to explore the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest, one of most biodiverse places on earth, with the comfort and accessibility of Sacha Lodge to make for an unparalleled Amazon birding experience.

Itineraries can be found here

Find out more here

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LATIN TRAILS: Ecuador’s Sustainable Tourism Gem and the Return of the Iconic Train

Alausí, one of Ecuador’s outstanding Pueblos Mágicos, is set to make history again with the revival of the legendary railway line to Nariz del Diablo. Scheduled to reopen in early 2025, the historic train is a beacon of cultural heritage and a catalyst for the town’s economic revival. Its return is expected to attract travellers from around the world, eager to experience the breathtaking journey through Ecuador’s Andean landscapes. Beyond its railway heritage, Alausí stands out as a sustainable tourism destination, strongly aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The town offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Ecuadorian culture, with vibrant traditions, community-driven initiatives and responsible tourism practices that benefit both people and the planet.

Mindo, located in the lush cloud forests of Pichincha, Ecuador, is proud to have been recognised by the UNWTO as one of the Best Tourism Villages under the Rural Tourism for Development Programme. This prestigious award highlights Mindo’s exceptional commitment to innovation, environmental sustainability and the promotion of economic and social growth through responsible tourism. Renowned for its biodiversity, sustainable practices and vibrant community, Mindo exemplifies how tourism can be in harmony with nature while creating meaningful opportunities for local people. With this recognition, Mindo joins 55 global destinations being celebrated for their alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Mindo’s award also reflects Ecuador’s growing reputation as a hub for rural, community-centred tourism that offers travellers an authentic connection to the land and its people.

 

GUYANA

WILDERNESS EXPLORERS: New flights and new tours

KLM has announced a new twice-weekly service from Amsterdam to Georgetown, starting on 4 June 2025. This follows the launch of a new direct flight on 11 December 2024 with Avianca connecting Georgetown, Guyana, with El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, Colombia.

Guyana is the world’s largest growing economy, with increasing demand from tour operators. Wilderness Explorer’s newest tour is our Wildlife, Conservation and Indigenous Communities tour recently launched by our partner Latin Routes which is a 16-day exploration of Guyana, exploring its wildlife through the lens of grass-roots conservation projects led by indigenous communities.  The trip explores Georgetown’s culture, spectacular Kaieteur Falls, the rainforest canopy, exceptional savannah wildlife, boat trips on the Rupununi River and indigenous-owned and operated lodges, with prices from £9949 per person.

Find out more here

 

PERU

PROMPERU: Lima’s New Jorge Chavez International Airport Scheduled to Open January 29

The official opening of Lima’s new Jorge Chavez International Airport will take place at 6 am on January 29, 2025. This will occur after a six-hour transition period from the existing terminal that will start at midnight. The new airport facilities will be able to handle 30 million passengers per year, strengthening Lima’s position as a key transportation hub for South America. Some parts of the new airport are already being used including a second runway and a new control tower. The new terminal is part of a larger “airport city” development with modernization projects planned through until 2051.    

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PROMPERU: Amazon Reserve named to 2024 Green Destinations Top 100 List

For the first time, Peru’s Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve has been included in the Green Destinations Story Awards Top 100. The reserve, located in Loreto in Peru’s Amazon, is included on the 2024 list in recognition of its commitment to sustainably preserving the area’s nature and scenery. The establishment of the reserve back in 2004 sought to defend the area against illegal overextraction of forest and wildlife resources. The reserve stands out as one of the largest ecological preserves in Peru with an especially broad biodiversity of flora and fauna, including more than 500 species of butterflies, and the newly discovered Aquino stump monkey. Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve is one of five Peruvian destinations included on the 2024 Top 100 list.

PROMPERU: Peru’s new national reserve is a biodiverse marine paradise

The Grau Tropical Sea National Reserve is Peru’s newest national protected natural area. It’s located  along Peru’s northern coast in the regions of Tumbes and Piura, and covers an area of 8,900 square miles. The creation of the National Reserve by the Peruvian Federal Government puts protections in place against overfishing, mining and pollution. This is an important step for marine conservation and biodiversity protection and was a decade long process. 

The Grau Tropical Sea National Reserve is also the home and workplace of more than 15,000 traditional artisanal fisherman families operating out of small sailboats and is a top cultural and sea destination.

The national reserve contains coral reefs, shallow waters and islands home to a plethora of species. It also hosts large populations of iconic merlin, swordfish and tuna and is the known migration corridor for endangered sea turtles, whales and several species of sharks. Humpback whales travel specifically to the area to give birth, and the vulnerable Humboldt penguins, Pacific seahorses, endangered great hammerhead sharks and hundreds of species of fish and coral can also be found here.

In 2025, CREES MANU marks 20 years of unwavering commitment to biodiversity conservation and community empowerment at its flagship research centre, the Manu Learning Centre in the Manu Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This milestone highlights two decades of impactful work restoring deforested lands, protecting endangered species, and creating sustainable livelihoods for local communities. Our celebration will include special expeditions, community-led cultural events, and unique opportunities for travellers to engage directly with our ongoing projects.

CREES MANU: Celebrating 20 years of conservation and impact in Peru

In 2025, CREES MANU marks 20 years of unwavering commitment to biodiversity conservation and community empowerment at its flagship research centre, the Manu Learning Centre in the Manu Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This milestone highlights two decades of impactful work restoring deforested lands, protecting endangered species, and creating sustainable livelihoods for local communities. Our celebration will include special expeditions, community-led cultural events, and unique opportunities for travellers to engage directly with ongoing projects.

Crees will unveil a new interactive Conservation Learning Trail at the lodge to guide visitors through the journey of understanding of traditional knowledge and sustainable living practices.

The Manu Biosphere Reserve is increasingly recognized as a living laboratory for ecological restoration and climate resilience. This year, we are partnering with global conservation organizations to host the Amazon Future Forum, a gathering of researchers, conservationists, and eco-travel advocates to discuss sustainable strategies for preserving this vital ecosystem.

Manu is more than a destination; it’s a call to action. By visiting, travellers actively contribute to critical conservation and reforestation efforts while directly supporting local communities. CREES MANU ensures that every experience is deeply rooted in responsible tourism, empowering visitors to leave a positive footprint while fostering a profound connection to our planet and its people.

AQUA EXPEDITIONS: Exclusive chef-hosted departures on board Aqua Nera

Aqua Expeditions is pleased to announce two exclusive chef-hosted departures for 2025. In the Peruvian Amazon, renowned chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino will host two 4N sailings on Aqua Nera from 3rd – 7th June and 30th September – 4th October. As part of these sailings, guests will experience a ceviche-making masterclass, a cocktail demonstration, and a chef-hosted dinner.

Chef Schiaffino is among Peru’s most revered culinary minds and a pioneer of the rainforest-to-table movement. He focuses on using fresh and locally sourced produce with 70 percent of all ingredients used onboard sourced within Amazonia. He fuses Peruvian ingredients with traditional techniques, and his ability to transform unusual ingredients into authentic delectable dishes is echoed in Aqua Nera’s culinary offerings. Aqua Expeditions’ partnership with Chef Schiaffino goes beyond the unique culinary experience offered onboard our expeditions, extending to meaningful collaborations for conservation projects, such as the protection and rehabilitation of the native paiche fish population. Our work with local river communities to foster sustainably sourced produce in the Amazon also takes centre stage.

Find out more about the 2025 chef-hosted departures here.

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NEW TOURS

CHILE

SWOOP PATAGONIA – A Foodie Adventure in Southern Chile

An exclusive adventure in north Patagonia hiking volcanoes, watching penguins and enjoying a unique blend of local cuisine with three of the most innovative chefs of the south of Chile and a local family experience in Chiloe Island. Explore the region enjoying spectacular landscapes of lakes, fjords, snowy capped volcanoes and unique wildlife while you discover the local culture and communities through an eclectic and surprising array of flavours powered by the best Chilean wines. An exclusive experience, with a deep commitment to organic and sustainable cuisine including the 100 k principles and the rich and various ingredients that only the fertile valleys of Chile and the rich Humboldt current of the Pacific Ocean can deliver. 

Price: starting from £2,599 per person including 4 nights’ accommodation of lodging, transfers and excursions, all breakfasts and lunches and one dinner. Excludes international flights

Available all year round from 1 January

For more information visit here

EXPLORE WORLDWIDE: Highlights of Chile – Atacama to Paine

From beginning to end, this comprehensive 13-day Chile adventure is all about epic scenery and getting up close and personal with the tumultuous geology that makes Chile so unique. Expect to spend time outdoors immersing yourself in the landscape. Watch the sunset over the desert, stroll the stark salt flats, picnic in the splash zone of erupting geysers, and discover the varying volcanic scenery.

Price: The trip costs from £4,749 per person, including 12 nights’ accommodation with breakfast and some additional meals, activities and excursions, and transport, with an Explore tour leader throughout. International flights are not included.

The first departure will run on 16 March 2025.

For more information visit here

EXPLORE WORLDWIDE: Hiking in Patagonia – Glaciers & Torres

Chile is a haven for the landscape lover. This long thin nation is all about the scenery: sculpted by volcanoes, draped in a lace of vibrant glacial lakes, and tipped with snow and ice. Imagine a place of wild and windswept plains, twisted fairytale forests, and at night vast skies hung with glittering constellations. This hiking trip combines Chile and Argentina to take you off the beaten track to see Patagonia at its wild, windswept best. We still include the iconic moments, including a day walk to the base of the Torres spires, but we also get you away from the crowds to less-visited spots where you’ll have the wide-open spaces to yourselves. And of course, glaciers galore! You’ll squeeze in eight of these frozen beauties, including the chance to don crampons for an unforgettable glacier hike.

Price: The trip costs from £4,999 per person, including 11 nights’ accommodation (including three nights in a simple ‘rifugio’) with breakfast and some additional meals, activities and excursions, and transport, with an Explore tour leader throughout. Flights are not included.

The first departure will run on 9 November 2025.

For more information visit here

 

COLOMBIA

INTREPID TRAVEL: Lost City Trekking

The Lost City Trail in Santa Marta, Colombia, is a gem waiting to be discovered. This itinerary offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and cultural immersion. Hikers traverse the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, encountering diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The journey goes to La Ciudad Perdida, an ancient archaeological site that predates Machu Picchu, offering a sense of mystery and awe. Including this trail in your publication will captivate adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike, showcasing an unforgettable experience that combines physical challenge with the rich heritage of the indigenous Kogi people. It’s a must-feature for any travel enthusiast!

Price: From £1,041 excluding international flights

Starts operating on July 13th 2025

For more information visit here

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COSTA RICA

EXPLORE WORLDWIDE: Upgraded – Costa Rica Wildlife

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the Caribbean to the Pacific Coast on our tour through Costa Rica. Cruise through Tortuguero’s untamed waterways, discover wildlife, trek through pristine tropical rainforests, and relax on golden beaches, all while enjoying premium accommodations. This two-week adventure showcases the best of Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes and extraordinary wildlife. Explore Worldwide’s new 13-night Upgraded – Costa Rica Wildlife tour is packed with vibrant wildlife and lush jungle forests. It also features our very own hand-picked selection of Premium hotels.

Price: The trip costs from £3,999 per person, including 13 nights’ Premium accommodation with breakfast and some additional meals, activities and excursions, and transport, with an Explore tour leader throughout. International flights are not included.

The first departure will run on 26 April 2025

For more information visit here

 

ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS

SELECT LATIN AMERICA: Bears & Birds of the Andes

Ecuador is rich in wildlife, including the spectacled bear, also known as the Andean bear. We have found a spot where they build nests to eat and rest and climb trees. We’ve studied their habits to help lucky travellers see them. We know where they hang out, sleep, and play, ensuring the best chances to watch and photograph these playful animals. To complement this a trip to the Choco Bio-Region offers a unique chance to see amazing tropical birds from toucans to cock-of-the-rock.

Price: 9 days from £3,940 per person based on min of two people sharing (standard hotels) including transportation, all transfers, comfortable land transportation. International flights are not included.

For more information visit here.

TRAVEL DIFFERENTLY: Galapagos Roots: a Community and Nature Expedition

A unique new Galapagos island-hopping tour, combining the iconic wildlife of Santa Cruz, Santa Fe, and Isabela islands, with the spellbinding human history and culture of isolated Floreana. We will kayak and snorkel with sea turtles, sharks and sea lions, lunch on local farms and Giant Tortoise reserves, cycle through wetlands and mangroves, and even climb an active volcano. On Floreana, once the home of pirates and outcasts, we will be hosted by a friendly local family in their waterfront lodge under a blanket of stars. Far from the cruise ship crowds, this feels like your own private Galapagos paradise.

Price: From £2450 per person. Includes 6 nights’ accommodation, all transport, boats, activities and meals. Flights and entrance fee not included

For more information visit here.

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EXODUS ADVENTURE TRAVELS: Highlights of Ecuador & the Galapagos 

This guided adventure combines the highlights of mainland Ecuador with a Galapagos boat trip, taking guests on a journey through the country’s rich indigenous culture, Amazonian rainforest, dramatic volcanoes and extraordinary wildlife. Starting in Quito, travellers will enjoy an agave experience and private city tour, before transferring to the Amazon rainforest to visit AmaZOOnico rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary and taking a guided walk through the rainforest with a local guide, learning about local flora and fauna, medicinal plants and Indigenous survival techniques. The trip then moves onto the Galapagos, with standout moments including snorkelling with sea lions in the crystal waters of Isla Lobos, spotting giant tortoises on Floreana and learning about the sobering past of Isabela Island, which was utilised as a penal sanctuary during the mid-19th century. 

Price: Exodus Adventure Travels’ new 15-day guided Highlights of Ecuador & the Galapagos is priced from £3,449pp, excluding flights and including B&B accommodation, additional meals as listed, all listed transfers and activities and a local tour leader throughout.

For more information visit here

LATIN ROUTES: Finch Bay Hotel’s new Evolution Suites

The leading eco-hotel in the Galapagos Islands, Finch Bay, will reveal six new Evolution Suites in February 2025. This news follows the hotel’s significant sustainability milestone reached in 2024, as Finch Bay made the largest private investment in renewable energy in the islands’ history. These suites, located in a newly constructed block, promise to elevate the guest experience, designed to cater to the discerning traveller seeking a luxurious and immersive experience in the Galapagos. Spacious, airy, and elegantly designed, the Evolution Suites provide a harmonious blend of comfort and style. This design paired with the hotel’s unique location provides a tranquil escape while being just a short water taxi ride from the vibrant town centre of Puerto Ayora. 

Price: Prices at Finch Bay start from £719 per night in a suite including breakfast, based on two sharing.

Latin Routes offers a trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos from £7,999pp based on two people sharing. Includes flights, transfers and stays at Casa Gangotena, Mashpi Lodge, Finch Bay and a 4-night cruise abord the yacht Isabella II. (www.latinroutes.co.uk / 0208 546 6222)

Available from February 2025

For more information visit here

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CAZENOVE+LOYD: Ultra-luxury Cruise of the Galapagos Islands

Joining the Small Luxury Hotels of the World in April 2025, Hermes Mega Catamaran is the very first Ultra-Luxury Cruise to sail the Galapagos Islands. Hermes will be incredibly exclusive for only 20 guests, with some of the most high-end amenities offered in the region. It’s basically a luxury hotel on water, where each suite has its own private balcony and private jacuzzi. There will be a renowned naturalist onboard offering guided wildlife excursions; an award-winning chef; kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkelling sessions; and even a spa including a masseuse. The trip also includes nights either side in the city of Quito, with fascinating guided tours each day.

Price: cazenove+loyd offers a10-night tailor-made luxury trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos from £12,000 pp (two sharing) including a 7-night Galapagos cruise on the Hermes Mega Catamaran (full board), three nights in Quito (full board), all experiences, transfers and domestic flights. International flights extra.

Maiden voyage: April 20 2025

For more information visit here (for more on the cruise see here)

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PERU

EXPLORE WORLDWIDE: Upgraded – Discover Peru

Peru is famous as the heartland of the ancient Incas, and you’ll discover it all on this journey from coastal Lima to the Sacred Valley, through elegant Arequipa and the stunningly expansive Lake Titicaca. Machu Picchu is a spectacular climax, but along the way you’ll find a treasure trove of ornate Spanish architecture, an exciting foodie scene, and big landscapes that defy belief. Explore’s new two-week Upgraded – Discover Peru tour is packed with scenic tours, the opportunity to sample local food  and meet with the locals. It also features our very own hand-picked selection of Premium hotels.

Price: The trip costs from £3,495 per person, including 14 nights’ Premium accommodation with breakfast and some additional meals, activities and excursions, and transport, with an Explore tour leader throughout.

Flights are not included.

Date: The first departure will run on 19 April 2025.

For more information visit here

EXODUS ADVENTURE TRAVELS: Glamping on the Inca Trail 

On this new hiking adventure, guests can embark on the world-famous Machu Picchu trek in style, enjoying chef-prepared food, a comfortable bed and even massages en route. Taking the classic route from the Urubamba River, visitors will trek across mountain passes, through cloud forests and past crumbling fortresses to the ruins of Machu Picchu, also spending one day touring the Sacred Valley. Highlights along the way include exploring the administrative, political and economic site of Llactapaca, summitting Dead Woman’s Pass and visiting the archaeological site of Sayacmarca. The trip includes two visits to Machu Picchu, one in the afternoon and one in the early morning, to ensure optimal viewing conditions without the crowds of midday. Each evening brings the chance to rest and unwind in peaceful tranquillity, glamping under the stars and reflecting upon the day’s hike. 

Price: Exodus Adventure Travels’ new nine-day guided Glamping on the Inca Trail is priced from £2,899pp, excluding flights and including B&B accommodation, additional meals as listed, all listed transfers and activities, all listed sleeping equipment, and a local tour leader and full porterage throughout.

For more information visit here

INTREPID TRAVEL: Peru: Hike, Bike, Raft & SUP

Hike, bike, raft and paddle your way through the ancient sites and natural landscapes of Peru – home of the Incas. Tick Machu Picchu off your bucket list – one of the famed Seven Wonders of the World – with trekking and train options suitable for all levels. Go on a mountain biking experience from Cusco to Pisac, passing by rivers, fertile valleys and archaeological sites. Stand-up paddleboard along the serene waters of Piuray Lake, surrounded by the mountains. Raft through Grade 2 and 3 rapids on the Urubamba River in Ollantaytambo and hike to lookout points high above sea level overlooking the multicultural cities of diverse Peru – this is an adventure for the active, the curious and the adventurous!

Price: from £2060 (flights not included)

Inclusions: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners, transfers, activities as specified, 3 Night/4 Day Inca Trail (or 2 Night/3 Day Inca Quarry Trail) guided hike(s) with porters’ support. Alternatively guided Cusco stay with visit to Machu Picchu by train.

Dates: Monthly departures from April – December 2025

For more information visit here

For all media and PR enquiries, please email katie@lata.travel

(Photo Credit: Colombian Journeys: Ciudad Perdida, Colombia)

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