The Andes Mountains. The longest continual mountain range in the world, and neighbour to rainforests, deserts, glaciers and volcanoes, ancient civilisations and modern capital cities. It stretches across seven South American nations and offers visitors unrivalled landscapes, world-class trekking, award-winning vineyards, glistening salt flats, and a chance to experience true Andean culture. Covering an astonishing 3.371 million km², it can be overwhelming trying to narrow down a specific destination or area of the Andes to explore. So, we’ve put together a guide to the Andes, broken down into some of our favourite destinations. Where will you explore next? Where to go in the Andes? Peru Home to Machu Picchu, Peru has arguably the most popular and well-known tourist attraction in the Andes. Whether trekking the Inca Trail, or travelling by train from the stunning capital of Cusco, this is one destination you definitely won’t want to miss. While Machu Picchu…
After Brazil, Chile has the largest area of protected conservation land in South America. Most of this protected land falls in the rugged and highly untouched expanse of Patagonia. From top to bottom there are a total of 36 National Parks in Chile, all with something a little different to the other, from magnificent volcanic landscapes of Hornopiren to the temperate ‘enchanted’ rainforests and hanging glaciers further South in Queulat. Once inside these parks you can’t help but marvel at the never-ending mountain ranges and beautiful natural wonders that nature has created. It is here that nature has the power to make you feel tiny and insignificant. An important place for wildlife in Chile is the recently rehabilitated Valle Chacabuco, part of which was once a working sheep farm or estancia. Today Chacabuco’s much greener pastures are home to many of the animals that you will find described below. Interestingly,…
Recently retired? Looking for that perfect week away? Latin Routes might just be able to help. Here are our 5 best places to stay if you’re 50+… Rio Serrano – Torres Del Paine Set on the banks of the River Serrano, the Rio Serrano has some of the most stunning views of the Paine Mountain Range available. Not only this, but you can experience them from the comfort of the stylish restaurant, relaxing in the bar with a glass of Chilean wine or simply through your bedroom window. If you’re feeling active then the hotel runs walking tours in and around the spectacular Torres Del Paine. With a great location (just outside the park), comfortable rooms and a great range of outdoor excursions as well as a rich history, the Rio Serrano is a great choice for those over 50. Llao Llao Spa and Resort – Bariloche This 5* resort is…
