One of the most fascinating and beautiful areas of Brazil, the Pantanal is not just a wildlife-spotter’s paradise, it is also home to some of the most peaceful and elegant eco lodges available for you to stay at. With the bustle and excitement of the World Cup in full swing, the Pantanal offers a brief sojourn from the trials and tribulations of populous city life. Refugio Ecologico Caiman Considered one of the best ecotourism resorts in the Pantanal, the Refugio Ecologico Caiman is locaed in the town of Miranda on the edge of the Southern Pantanal in Mato Grosso do Sul. 236kms from Campo Grande, this resort combines a working cattle ranch with both conservation and tourism. With a strong ecological focus, amazing scenery and some unparalleled opportunities to spot rare wildlife, there’s no downside to this incredible location. Refugio Ecologico Caiman has accommodation in two small lodges – Cordiheira and Baizinha – which are sprawled across the vast…
All the excitement of the World Cup has only served to remind us of what fantastic things Brazil has to offer! This week, we’ll be examining one of the more peaceful and relaxing regions of Brazil, the Pantanal. Rolling hills, gentle sunshine and secluded hotels to unwind in, the Pantanal affords you the perfect place to escape the city. The Area The world’s largest freshwater wetland straddles the borders of Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia. Widely regarded as one of the best places to spot wild animals in all of South America, there is a vast array of wildlife that inhabit the area. From Caiman, Howler Monkeys and Giant Otters to Anacondas, Ocelots, Marmosets and even the elusive Jaguar, there is almost no end to the range of animals on offer. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, amateur photographers or just those looking for a unique experience, the Pantanal has it all. Featuring a number of…
With the excitement of the World Cup approaching, and fans all over the world crossing their fingers, all eyes are on the host nation Brazil to provide something spectacular – we’re sure they won’t disappoint! With this in mind, let’s have a look at some of the most exciting and beautiful places that Brazil has to offer, as well as some things to look out for during the World Cup itself. Manaus England’s first match will be played in the incredible Arena Amazonia in the bustling city of Manaus, known widely as the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest. Due to its location within the rainforest itself, it is most accessible by boat or by plane. Preserving the indigenous culture of the original settlers is of great importance to the people of Manaus, and when visiting you can see why – the outstanding natural beauty of the surrounding area is undoubtedly something worth…
Although you may be tempted to spend as little time as possible in the hotel – there are so many extraordinary things to discover in Rio – there are a few that might make you change your mind! Here are some of the best from Latin Routes that will ensure your holiday to Brazil is as comfortable as it is unforgettable. Santa Teresa This incredible luxury hotel sits on what used to be a coffee plantation in the beautiful region of Santa Teresa, a cultural and historic centre of Rio de Janeiro itself. Every effort has been made to maintain the buildings original charm and sophistication, and it is now considered one of the most beautiful hotels in not just Rio, but South America as a whole. With a clever use of materials such as woods, banana tree fibres and glass, the Santa Teresa has a peaceful, tropical ambience quite…
In a unique location at the foot of the famous Sugarloaf Mountain, overlooked by the majestic sight of the statue of Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro is not just the host of the 2014 World Cup, it is also a centre for Brazilian culture – a thriving city with thousands of wonderful and unique things to experience. What are you waiting for! The Area With lush green mountains on one side and crystal clear blue waters on the other, Rio de Janeiro is one of the most fascinating and culturally diverse places in the world. An economic powerhouse in Brazil, its rich history has led to it being one of the most visited places on the planet. Featuring some of Brazil’s most iconic and recognisable landmarks (including the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer) as seen in countless photos, films and TV shows. Past the spectacular surface is an even more fascinating cultural underbelly….
This week we’re focusing on one of the lesser-known regions of Chile – the Chilean Lake District. A stunning haven of outstanding natural beauty, this region has it all – mountains, volcanoes, pristine blue lakes and dense green forests. With a photo opportunity around every corner, the Chilean Lake District will certainly not disappoint! The Area This region features around twelve major lakes located in and amongst rivers, waterfalls, forests and thermal springs, all framed by the towering Andes Mountains. Seven of these lakes feature along a single road, known by its popular name ‘Road of the Seven Lakes’ (who would have guessed). This 107km road stretches between San Martin de Los Andes and Villa La Angostura, providing views over 7 of the main lakes in the district, including the beautiful Espondido andCorrentoso lakes. The area is perfect if you’re looking to explore independently – hiring a car and visiting the multitude of highlights…
Mendoza is renowned as one the most beautiful areas in Argentina – the stunning backdrop of the Andes frames the multitude of vineyards and bodegas that dot the countryside, ready for you to explore! This week we’ll be having a look at where the best places to stay are in this fantastic region. Cavas Wine Lodge Nestled in a 35-acre vineyard in the wine region of Mendoza,Cavas Wine Lodge is one of the more luxurious hotels available in Mendoza. Featuring just 14 rooms, this hotel is as exclusive as it is comfortable. With freestanding adobe-walled apartments set in and amongst the vineyards, each rooms is carefully constructed to suit your needs. Tastefully furnished with a luxurious finish, each cream-coloured bedroom offers a stone-finished bathroom. In addition to this, each room opens out onto its own patio with stunning views out over the Andes. A private plunge pools awaits you, perfect for…
One of the most attractive cities in Argentina, Mendoza is a haven for those looking to escape crowded city life. Tree-lined avenues, vineyards and stunning scenery are complimented by lively nightlife and top-quality restaurants. Mendoza has it all! The Area The city proper is rich in culture and history which is fascinating to learn about, but also to explore for yourself. Find a few hidden gems tucked away in the city centre, in and amongst some of the excellent bars and restaurants on offer. Since Mendoza is known for its wine production, most stemming from the vineyards located just outside the city, you can’t afford to miss some of the fantastic local wines on offer. The countryside is populated by countless vineyards and bodegas, spread amongst the small towns and villages that dot the area – each producing their own unique wines for your tasting pleasure. Relax and enjoy a glass or…
After exploring some of the fantastic wildlife-spotting opportunities available in this incredible continent, today we’re looking at a specific cruise that Latin Routes can offer you. With the 2014/15 season starting in November, now is certainly the time to book. Latin Routes can also offer some great discounts – contact us here to find out more. Antarctic Fly and Cruise This 8 day cruise is perfect for those looking to avoid sailing across the notorious Drake’s passage, or if you’re just looking for a slightly shorter trip, as you fly straight from Chile to Antarctica Day 1: Arrive in Punta Arenas, on the North bank of the Strait of Magellan. Transfer to a local hotel for an informative briefing about your trip. Stay for your welcome dinner, offering an opportunity to meet your travelling companions. Day 2: Board your plane and relax – the flight is just 2 hours to King George…
One of the last true wildernesses left on the face of the Earth, Antarctica is truly a destination like no other. Unique wildlife, vast tundras and some of the most spectacular sights you’ll ever see – you are sure not to be disappointed! Today we’ll be having a look at what will be one of the standout features of your Antarctic cruise – the native wildlife. The Emperor Pengiun Famed for its harsh conditions, sprawling tundra and inhospitable landscape, the Antarctic is the home of a wide range of species, each of which is as interesting as the next. Remembering that polar bears only exist at the North Pole, the Antarctic’s most well-known resident is probably the Emperor Penguin. This beautiful animal resides exclusively in the Antarctic and has some very specialist adaptions – such as the ability to hold its breath for up to 18 minutes and the ability not only to slow its metabolism down to…
