Discover the Hidden Gem of Peru: Paracas

Peru

By Brittah Springer, Southwind Senior Marketing Specialist

Nestled along Peru’s southern Pacific coast, Paracas offers a unique blend of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and luxurious relaxation. This seaside paradise is the perfect addition to your Peruvian journey, especially after exploring the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu and Cusco. Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or with a group of friends, Paracas promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you delighted.

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Lima, Peru: Culinary Capital of Latin America

Peru

By Brittah Springer, Southwind Senior Marketing Specialist

The kitchens of Lima are heating up. Peru’s capital finds itself in the midst of a culinary renaissance. The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, including the prestigious ranking of Central at #1. This vibrant city continues to redefine itself as a gastronomic hub, attracting food enthusiasts from around the globe to experience its diverse culinary offerings, from traditional cevicherías to innovative fine dining establishments. National Geographic highlights Lima’s remarkable transformation over the past decade, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore the rich flavors and culinary heritage of Peru.

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Sustainable Tourism in Galapagos – Helping preserve the islands while supporting their population

Ecuador and Galapagos

By Tom Damon

Long time Southwind in-country partner, Metropolitan Touring (MT), is a leader in sustainable tourism initiatives helping Ecuadorians preserve their natural wonders through ecotourism and park management. Every visitor to Galapagos plays an important role in helping to support responsible tourism for generations of future travelers to the archipelago.

Southwind caught up with adventure travel pioneer Francisco Dousdebés who heads up Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability for MT. A commitment to carbon neutrality is a cornerstone of the company’s values.

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Meet our top guide in Cusco – Romulo Lizárraga who grew up in the shadow of Machu Picchu

Peru

By Tom Damon

On your next Southwind trip to Peru, you could have the opportunity to travel with the descendant of one of the local discoverers of Machu Picchu! Romulo grew up at the foot of Machu Picchu Mountain before venturing to Cusco, the former Incan capital, to study Tourism at the San Antonio Abad University. For the past 25 years, this native of the Andes has been guiding travelers throughout Peru’s highland communities and majestic mountain ranges. He is fluent in Quechua, Spanish and English and co-author of two guide books on the region. Romulo is a great asset to any Southwind Peru trip, especially family trips. He lives in Cusco with his wife and two daughters. Continue reading →

As more countries open in South America – this is a great time to plan a trip!

Ecuador and Galapagos

By Tom Damon


Looking for an international adventure get-a-way this winter relatively close to home? Sunny Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are open to visitors. Southwind is receiving bookings for 2021 to one of the safest countries to visit during the pandemic. Continue reading →

How to Plan a Seamless Adventure Trip to Patagonia

Chile, Hiking the Patagonian Andes, Paine Towers Lodge Adventure, Patagonia

By: Tom Damon, Southwind President & Adventure Travel Specialist

I recently re-visited the Chilean and Argentinean sides of Patagonia to review top level accommodations and test out excursions. The first decision to make in planning a successful Patagonia trip is to be realistic with what you could do with your time allotted. Here’s my advice: Continue reading →

Top 12 Reasons to Visit Chile’s Atacama Desert, the DRIEST Place on Earth!

Chile

by: Dana Johnson & Luis Felipa

Having such an otherworldly appearance, the majestic Atacama Desert of Northern Chile has been compared to the surface of Mars. So similar to our neighboring planet, NASA has even tested instruments designed for their Mars missions in this region. The Atacama Desert sees an average of less than .004 inches of rain per year and some areas have not had rainfall for over 400 years. As one of the rising travel destinations in South America, why should you visit Atacama? Below are the top reasons to explore this unique and magical place. It can be reached by a 2 hour flight from Santiago to Calama, followed by 1.5 hour scenic drive to San Pedro de Atacama (elev 7,898 ft), the base for our adventures. Continue reading →

10 Fabulous Beaches in Costa Rica

Costa Rica, Costa Rica Family Odyssey
Costa Rica has nearly 300 different tropical beaches along its stunning Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, each with a unique draw and distinct setting. Virgin rainforest with exotic animals, nesting sites for sea turtles, long beaches with white sand, amazing snorkeling, sea kayaking, surfing and swimming – you name it! These beautiful beaches in Costa Rica offer incomparable adventures for nature lovers! Continue reading →