The biggest mistake you can make when arranging a Latin America tour
It’s a perfect continent for adventurous travellers, with diverse attractions ranging from beaches and jungle to wildlife and glaciers – but it’s wise not to cram too much into a Latin America itinerary. Gaynor Atherton, senior business development manager at Latin Routes, explains why less is more when it come to the region
What trends are you seeing in the Latin American market?
Costa Rica remains very popular for 2023/24, with more off-the-beaten track areas coming up like the Osa Peninsula. Covered in rainforests and winding waterways, it’s one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. We are seeing a lot of last-minute departures for bucket-list destinations such as the Galapagos – there are some attractive offers on cruises, so it’s a great time to book and travel.
We are seeing more interest in Colombia – and also Guyana, one of the continent’s best-kept secrets. Interest is most definitely peaking for this little-known gem after British Airways launched a direct flight there last year. It has a vibrant capital, seemingly unending acres of unspoilt rainforests, golden beaches, stunning savannahs and truly outstanding wildlife and biodiversity.
What’s new for 2023?
We are excited to have recently launched Panama. This is an exciting and interesting destination in its own right, which offers a great alternative to Costa Rica, but it also combines well with both Costa Rica and Colombia. In addition, we have a new Guyana itinerary, which sits nicely with the launch of that new BA flight and matches the increased interest in more adventurous travel.
What myths still exist surrounding holidays in the region?
A lot of our trade partners’ clients think it’s too far to travel, but when you look at the distances and flight times, it’s no different to going East. The size of the continent is huge, and clients think they can do it all in two to three weeks. It’s best to keep to one area or country, spend a little longer if possible and really appreciate the different highlights.
I have had a lot of conversations recently at client events where safety has come up. Latin America is as safe as anywhere else in the world and has as much to offer as any other continent, with its diverse landscapes, culture, wildlife, beautiful beaches, amazing food and wine, and a huge array of bucket-list areas/destinations.
Which destinations are impressing with their sustainable strategies?
Costa Rica does it very well, and we keep seeing great improvement on sustainability in several other Latin America countries, including Colombia, Uruguay and Peru. The Sacred Valley in Peru is an unparalleled hub to experience the ancient traditions of the Inca Empire and an eco-tourism hotspot. The beautiful valley serves as a vital agricultural hub, particularly for Cusco and the surrounding areas, and extensive efforts have been made to preserve the culture of the region whilst supporting the local communities with leading tourism initiatives.
What’s your top tip for agents booking Latin America?
From Mexico all the way down to Tierra del Fuego, it is a huge continent and it’s important to resist the temptation of trying to pack too much in one holiday. Advise your clients to slow down, get to know the local people and understand the culture. It’s an incredibly diverse part of the world. Take Colombia, for example – the country offers stunning landscapes, lost cities, romantic Caribbean islands, vibrant festivals and the best coffee in the world! A day spent wandering around the colourful buildings of Cartagena is enough to make anyone fall for the charms of Colombia, but there is so much more to see, including the exceptionally beautiful Tayrona National Park, the lush green Coffee Regions, and bustling Medellin.
How can agents engage with Latin Routes?
The first port of call should be our agent marketing hub latinroutes.co.uk/agents, which we keep updated with fam trip and training opportunities.
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