This section is designed to help both those who are new to Latin America and our approach to tour operating. We hope that this information will address some of your initial queries and doubts.  However, if you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

 

How safe are the destinations featured?

We can honestly say that in 14 years of organising holidays to Latin America, we can only report a few minor incidents involving theft of cameras and bags – which can happen anywhere in the world. There are always risks attached to travel but by booking through a tour operator, you will have our own back up and that of our local agent. We are always kept informed of local developments.

 

I could probably book this holiday at a lower price if I organised it myself on the internet. Why should I book it through you?

We believe that we offer a valuable service by providing you with our expertise and up-to-date impartial knowledge of the various countries featured and our chosen accommodation. Every member of our team has travelled extensively in Latin America and we are very passionate about what we do!

We save you time and the inconvenience of contacting numerous hotels and various parties in far away places where UK rules and regulations just do not apply. We have negotiated special rates with our suppliers and our prices represent good value for money. Should you experience a problem with any part of the arrangements, our local agents and our senior management have a duty to assist. Furthermore, by booking through a bonded tour operator your money is 100% secure.

 

How would you describe your holidays?

We specialise in soft adventure, tailor-made holidays using personally selected accommodation aimed at the independently minded person. These will suit more adventurous, free-spirited travellers. 

 

When is the ideal time to travel?

It is possible to visit most areas of Latin America all year round. The peak travel period tends to be between November and April. We recommend you book at least 6 months in advance as flights and accommodation are in limited supply and the demand from Europe and the United States is growing rapidly. For Chile and Argentina, we suggest you contact us 9 months in advance of your departure date.

 

On which airlines do you base your holidays?

We offer a wide range of carriers on each route. Some flights are direct whilst
others are via Europe or the United States. As an independent operator, we are not tied to any particular airline and we always give our honest opinion based on our own experiences. We will always endeavour to suggest the service offering the most convenient routing and value for money. Please see the flights page for each individual country for routings and schedules. 

 

Do I have to pick one of the suggested itineraries?

No, very few people do! The suggested itineraries are simply there to give you an idea of what is feasible and the corresponding cost. We excel in providing tailor-made itineraries which are geared to your particular requirements. 

 

What type of accommodation do you use?

Accommodation has been selected for character, charm, comfort and quality of service. Rooms will normally have private bathrooms. However, lodges in countries such as Venezuela, Bolivia and Panama are more basic and rustic than others. We avoid large impersonal hotels wherever possible.

 

Can I organise my own flights?

Yes, we have no objections to providing you with a quote for ground arrangements only, providing these are for a minimum of 7 nights’ accommodation. However, we offer competitive fares from the UK and, by booking your flight through us, we can inform you of any schedule changes and also alter any corresponding land arrangements should this be necessary without you incurring amendment charges.

 

Are your trips escorted?

No - We only provide a driver or guide on our transfers or excursions where applicable. Our holidays are aimed at individuals or couples who seek independence, freedom and flexibility.

 

Are sightseeing tours pre-booked on a group basis?

Normally, excursions are provided on a private basis. However, in some areas it is more practical and cost effective to join regular group trips organised by our local agents. All tours will be accompanied by an English speaking guide.

 

How do we travel within our chosen country?

In countries such as Costa Rica, we recommend a fly-drive holiday. However, for other countries we normally suggest a combination of internal flights and private transfers. Nervous flyers should note that six seater planes are used in the more remote regions.

 

Do I need to speak Spanish or Portuguese?

Whilst the locals will respond favourably, speaking the local language is certainly not a prerequisite and being only an English speaker will not hinder your enjoyment of Latin America.

 

How does the booking process actually work?

Initially, we suggest that you should read through this website, pinpoint the country or combination of countries that suit your requirements and look at the suggested itineraries and prices. Compile a list of the areas and/or lodges that appeal and work out an approximate budget. Then, when you want more detailed and personal guidance, call us on 020 8758 4774 and we can discuss your requirements further and advise on the logistics and how to allocate your time. We will then prepare a tailor-made itinerary with a costing.

 

Should you decide to go ahead, we will request a booking form and deposit before proceeding to book all the hotels and services. If we encounter availability problems, we will try to offer suitable alternatives or look at changing the order of the itinerary to match the availability. There would obviously be no charge and your deposit would be refunded if we failed to provide you with a suitable itinerary. We will then send you a confirmation invoice with a copy of our notes for travellers, followed by a full travel pack nearer to the departure date.

 

Do I require visas?

Travellers with British passports do not require visas for the countries featured in our programme – with the exception of Venezuela where you must have a tourist card when travelling overland and crossing borders.

 

STOP PRESS...NEW UK IMMIGRATION LAW requires nationals from Brazil, Bolivia and Venezuela to apply for a visa, prior to visiting the UK. This may result in a reciprocal arrangement. Please check with our office for the latest situation.

 

How is my money protected?

You can be rest assured that your money is 100% safe because when booking a holiday that includes flights, this is guaranteed by our bond with the
Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL 9280). For ground arrangements only, we are bonded with AITO Trust