Overlanding Latin America

Transcription

1 Cuzco, Peru - Vivien De Greef Cuzco, Peru - Nicole Caton Overlanding Latin America Create your own Latin American adventure from our wide range of Overland route combinations. With all the big show-stoppers and plenty of hidden gems to discover in-between, there s bound to be a trip that takes in everything you want to see. In fact, it s probably going to be a harder task trying to pick what you don t want to see Participatory travel Given the nature of the regions we head to on our Overland trips, and given that this is Latin America after all, creature comforts aren t always readily at hand. Depending on the trip route and travel season, there s likely to be a fair bit of camping involved to get to where we re going. So if roughing it on occasion really isn t your thing, this might not be the best option for you. You ll need to be prepared for some long driving days, to put up your own tent (though we ll always be there to lend a hand) and to help out with cooking and cleaning duties. However, don t be too deterred by these home truths, as for most of our travellers these Overland experiences are what make our trips so memorable. At the end you ll have seen some seriously remote corners of the earth, captured an incredible vault of memories and met a whole bunch of new friends from right across the globe. After all, isn t that what travel is all about? Dragoman trucks Most of our Overland trips in Latin America are operated by our partners, Dragoman. Having been in the Overland travel game for over 30 years, they have the nous, know-how and, most importantly, a fleet of purposebuilt vehicles to get you from A to B, both safely and on time. Flexible itineraries Rugged road warriors though these trucks may be, routes may sometimes need to change. Just as it is at home, if a road is closed off for reconstruction, there might not be a whole lot we can do other than work out a new route to get to our destination. By the same token, not needing to rely on public transport can be a huge advantage in places like strikeprone Bolivia and does in fact offer an element of creative license. Your trip leader may recommend a scenic route, short cut or detour to a secret attraction, and if everyone s in agreement, well, why not? In a similar vein, if you don t see the particular route you were after on this map, check out the Dragoman website: dragoman.com. They could already be on to it. Overland trips GDOG La Paz to Buenos Aires 21 days QDOYC Mexico City to Panama City 55 days GDOP Lima to Cuzco 17 days (GDOB reverse) GDOI Santiago to Ushuaia 23 days (GDOJ reverse) GDOW Cartagena to Quito 19 days (GDOQ reverse) GDOL Cuzco to La Paz 12 days (GDOO reverse) GDOY Rio to Cuzco 28 days GDOA Quito to Lima 20 days (GDON reverse) GDOK Buenos Aires to Rio 19 days (GDOM reverse) GDOC La Paz to Santiago 21 days (GDOF reverse) SDOA Anchorage to Mexico City 52 days GDOD Santiago to Buenos Aires 34 days (GDOE reverse) 72 Overlanding 72 Overlanding

2 MEXICO Mexico City GUATEMALA COSTA RICA Panama City NICARAGUA Cartagena PANAMA COLOMBIA Quito ECUADOR PERU BRAZIL Lima Cuzco Anchorage La Paz BOLIVIA Rio de Janeiro CANADA USA CHILE Santiago Buenos Aires ARGENTINA URUGUAY MEXICO Mexico City Ushuaia Overland Combos GDVYC Brazilian Amazon to Lima 44 days, Rio to Lima via Central Brazil GDOKC Lima to La Paz 22 days, Lima to La Paz (GDOMC reverse) GDOBC Lima to Buenos Aires 42 days, Lima to Buenos Aires GDBMC Ushuaia to Lima 64 days, Ushuaia to Lima (GDBLC reverse) GDONC Quito to La Paz 41 days, Quito to La Paz GDOTC Lima to Rio 60 days, Lima to Rio de Janeiro GDODC Quito to Rio 112 days, Quito to Rio via Ushuaia (GDOEC reverse) GDVFC Cartagena to Lima 38 days, Cartagena to Lima Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com Overlanding 73

3 Overlanding Cartagena, Colombia - Katharina Schuchmilski Cartagena to Quito Quito to Lima 19 days, Cartagena to Quito 20 days, Quito to Lima TRIP CODE GDOW TRIP CODE GDOA Be a part of Colombia s tourism revival on this thrilling Overland adventure that takes in everything from colonial cities to Caribbean beaches and rural hillside coffee plantations. With plenty of grassroots activities to get you mingling with the locals, there are endless opportunities for the kind of authentic experiences you ll be talking about for years to come. Encounter the fiery nightlife of Medellin, Colombia s second-largest city, search the stalls of the Otavalo Markets and explore the deep ravine cathedral of Ipiales on this journey through some of the best man-made and natural highlights of Colombia and Ecuador. Get a unique insight into two of South America s most exciting, vibrant and rapidly evolving destinations. Jump on board this Overland adventure stretching between two of the continent s most iconic cities. Discover places of immense natural beauty and explore regions far from the tourist trail. Delve deep into the Amazon and be privy to stunning views along the snaking, spectacular Quilotoa Loop. Hike through the lush, mountainous surrounds of Rio Verde, visit the ancient city of Chan Chan and traverse the cobbled streets of colonial Cuenca. Enjoy the sun, sand and surf of glorious Punta Sal, then explore the celebrated neighbourhoods and colonial hub of downtown Lima. With plenty of flexibility to choose the activities that best suit you, this Overland journey is the ultimate way to experience this spectacular stretch of South America. Peru - Scott Howard Lima to La Paz Bolivia - Fiona Black La Paz to Buenos Aires 22 days, Lima to La Paz 21 days, La Paz to Buenos Aires TRIP CODE GDOKC TRIP CODE GDOG Set out across the incredible Andes, once the domain of the ancient Incas, on this remarkable South American sojourn. Be awed by the ingenuity of past civilisations at the mysterious Nazca Lines and hike the historic Inca Trail to the monumental marvel of Machu Picchu. Visit Puno s ancient funerary towers, experience day-to-day Andean life on an overnight homestay and explore the vast blue expanse of Lake Titicaca and its ever-drifting reed islands. Wander amid the ruins of the Inca empire and spot magnificent Andean condors soaring sky-high above Colca Canyon. From the colonial sights of Lima to the colours of La Paz, you ll be hard-pressed to find a more ionic route through these incredible countries. Duck, wind and weave through South America s heartland on this journey overflowing with cultural riches and scenic splendours. Blaze a trail from La Paz to the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni, then traverse the stunning lakes of the Bolivian Altiplano into northern Argentina. Descend from the colour-splashed Andes to the elegant streets of Salta, camp at a traditional estancia in the heart of the Pampas and wind up in the cosmopolitan streets of South America s most sultry of cities, Buenos Aires. Discover a wealth of fascinating locations, majestic landscapes and friendly Latin American locals on this epic Overland adventure that ll leave you totally enamoured with this corner of the world. 74 Overlanding

4 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Fernando Freitas Buenos Aires to Rio Cartagena to Cuzco 19 days, Buenos Aires to Rio 54 days, Cartagena to Cuzco TRIP CODE GDOK TRIP CODE GDVGC Let adventure seek you out on a tantalising trip through Argentina towards the bustling beats of Brazil. Enjoy wood-grilled parrillas in Buenos Aires or wile away the night in one of the city s heady tango clubs. Bear witness to the unbelievable power of Iguazu Falls, one of South America s natural wonders, before travelling onwards to the wildlife haven of the Pantanal wetlands. Nature lovers will adore Bonito with its crystal-clear rivers, natural springs and abundant wildlife, while the secluded bays of Paraty offer the perfect place to unwind before hitting the hustle and hubbub of Brazil s carnival capital Rio. Get your booty shaking to samba, your body lazing on its famous sands or head up to Christ the Redeemer for a view of earthly splendour. Soak up the very best of South America s western corner on this exciting Overland adventure travelling from Cartagena to Cuzco. After exploring Colombia s coastline and idyllic islands, travel through the countryside and discover quaint cities, coffee plantations, sleepy towns and grand volcanic landscapes. Continue on into Ecuador to explore the colourful markets of Otavalo, the intriguing Amazon Jungle and the volcanic landscapes of the Purace National Park. Then experience the best of Peru Paracas National Reserve, Lima, Arequipa and Cuzco all culminating in a walk along the revered Inca Trail. This journey provides a unique insight into nations that are rapidly evolving. Come and be moved by their authenticity and beauty. Lake Titicaca, Peru - Suzy Femger Lima to Buenos Aires Inca Trail, Peru - Helene Liwinski Lima to Rio 42 days, Lima to Buenos Aires 60 days, Lima to Rio TRIP CODE GDOBC TRIP CODE GDOTC Zigzagging south through Peru, Bolivia and Argentina, this adventure from Lima to Buenos Aires is destined to enchant. From the colonial grandeur of Lima, to the cryptic lines of Nazca and the white façades of Arequipa, this continent unravels its culture, cuisine and charm at every twist and turn. Discover the intriguing fusion of Inca and Spanish heritages in Cuzco before splicing together the past and present on a trek through spectacular landscapes to Machu Picchu. Experience life on Lake Titicaca s floating islands, marvel at the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni and tuck into a traditional Argentine barbecue on an estancia stay. Breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities, captivating countryside and epicurean delights this trip really has it all. Become immersed and versed in the vibrant cultures of South America on this Overland adventure across Peru, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia and Brazil. Setting out from the sparkling shores of Lima, travel through the centre of the Andes to the pulsating energy of Buenos Aires before snaking up to Brazil s Rio de Janeiro. Tackle the epic Inca Trail to magnificent Machu Picchu, marvel at mighty Iguazu and head out by canoe for some wildlife spotting on the Pantanal. Saddle up for a day at the reins on an Argentinean estancia stay or, for something a little less macho, get those hips a-swaying to the samba or the rumba. Behold breathtaking scenery and allow the rich cultural heritage of this utterly bewitching continent to wash over you. Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com Overlanding 75

5 Overlanding Peru - Nathan Kellett Lima to Cuzco Cuzco to La Paz 17 days, Lima to Cuzco 12 days, Cuzco to La Paz TRIP CODE GDOP TRIP CODE GDOL Travel through the soaring heartland of the ancient Incas, from the Pacific coast of Lima to the heights of the Andes in Cuzco. Offering remarkable wildlife, stunning scenery and captivating culture, this is a truly unforgettable adventure. Wander the streets of Arequipa and marvel at the white-stone architecture, explore the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, trek along historic Inca pathways and pay a visit to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Look out for Andean condors as they scour the skies high above the Colca Canyon and experience local food and customs on a Peruvian homestay. An adventure from the word go, this is an enchanting way to explore this unique part of the world. Embark on a journey to Peru and Bolivia and discover the secrets of these famously mystical locations while traversing their diverse landscapes. Explore the streets of Cuzco, a magical city nestled high in the mountains of Peru, and visit Puno to marvel at the ancient funerary towers of Sillustani, which rise from the windswept Altiplano. Sail to the intriguing reed islands speckled over Lake Titicaca and bask in the natural beauty of the Island of the Sun. Trek along ancient Inca pathways and reach the region s very own wonder of the world mighty Machu Picchu. Everything from Inca heartlands to exciting cities and stunning scenery is covered in this trip you ll be mesmerised by the sheer volume of incredible experiences here for the taking. Bolivia - Chloe Milne La Paz to Santiago Patagonia - John Lyons Santiago to Ushuaia 21 days, La Paz to Santiago 23 days, Santiago to Ushuaia TRIP CODE GDOC TRIP CODE GDOI Set out on an unforgettable Andean adventure across Bolivia, Argentina and Chile. Take in some of Bolivia s most spectacular scenery, including the mesmerising salt flats of Salar de Uyuni and the fiery-red Laguna Colorada, before crossing into Argentina. Experience South American culture firsthand, sampling world-renowned wines in Cafayate, exploring the Pampas on horseback and savouring the succulent flavours of a traditional cattle ranch barbecue. If getting your gaucho on has got you all worn out, the relaxed atmosphere of Mendoza will be a welcomed opportunity to put those feet up and recuperate. Finally, a jaunt into Chile offers the chance to enjoy a soiree in sensational Santiago, the country s cosmopolitan capital. Thread through the slender corridor that separates the Andes and Argentina from the sparkling Pacific Ocean on this Overland adventure from Santiago to Ushuaia. Setting off from Santiago, Chile s buzzing capital, there ll be ample opportunities to uncover some of this region s divine local cuisine and diverse culture. Become an expert in some of the country s carmeneres and merlots while in the heart of Chilean wine country. Journey through the volcanic vistas surrounding Pucon and discover the dramatic Chilean fjord coast while camping in Patagonia. Step into the spectacle of Torres del Paine to experience one of our planet s most epic national parks before finally reaching the world s southernmost city, Ushuaia. 76 Overlanding

6 Santiago street art - Jo Stewart Santiago to Buenos Aires Mexico City to Panama City 34 days, Santiago to Buenos Aires 55 days, Mexico City to Panama City TRIP CODE GDOD TRIP CODE QDOYC Delve deep into the wilds of South America s southernmost tip for a taste of nature at its most striking. Make Latin America s acquaintance in sophisticated Santiago, sample world-famous Chilean reds on a vineyard tour and give the old adrenaline a kickstart by biking, hiking or rafting in action-packed Bariloche. Watch as the landscape changes to a winter wonderland of epic peaks, expansive skies and thick pine forests before it gives way, literally, at Fin del Mundo World s End. Be lucky to witness chunks of ice tumble into the ocean at Perito Moreno Glacier, take in the spectacular lakes of Torres del Paine and keep an eye out for whales while crossing the Magellan Straits before ending up on the stately boulevards of Buenos Aires. Nature, history and culture converge to staggering effect on this jaunt through an often overlooked region. Travel from Mexico City to Panama through Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama if the stunning natural landscapes and diverse flora and fauna don t inspire you, the stately colonial cities and no-holds-barred nightlife certainly will. Thrillseekers will be kept busy scaling active volcanoes, shopaholics will thrive in the colourful local markets, and beach lovers will delight in the pristine coral reefs and sparkling sands of the Caribbean. Feel the hands of time pull you into ancient worlds while exploring Maya ruins and get a taste of rural life while staying with families on various homestays. Argentina - Bridget Tombleson Ushuaia to Lima Quito to Rio via Ushuaia 64 days, Ushuaia to Lima 112 days, Quito to Rio TRIP CODE GDBMC TRIP CODE GDODC Journey along the backbone of the Andes on this colossal and comprehensive South American adventure. From Ushuaia, Argentina s southernmost city, to Lima, Peru s historic capital, this trip spans stunning Patagonian landscapes, the ruins of ancient civilisations and traditional cultures that have barely changed in centuries such as the Uru people of Lake Titicaca. Explore Argentina s still-growing Perito Morino Glacier, take in the snow-capped glory of Torres del Paines National Park in Chile and experience the mesmerising landscape of the Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia. It all comes to an end in Peru, where the mighty Machu Picchu is but one of many pre-columbian mysteries to be discovered. Get ready to explore some of South America s most intriguing landscapes on this incredible Overland trip through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil. Start off in Ecuador s colourful capital, Quito, before exploring the jungle of the Amazon, marvelling at mysterious Machu Picchu and heading south into the frozen wilds of Patagonia. Be awestruck by the towering cliffs of Perito Moreno Glacier, charmed by picturesque Bariloche and amazed by mighty Iguazu Falls before partying it up in racy and rowdy Rio. Get set for big thrills, bigger adventures and even bigger smiles on this monstrous 112-day experience that will ensure even the most seasoned of travellers get an eye-opening South American experience. Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com Overlanding 77