Discover the Hidden Gem of Peru: Paracas

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

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

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!

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

Mendoza, Argentina – A Rising Star in Wine & Mountain Tourism!

By Tom Damon, Southwind President & Adventure Travel Specialist

On a recent visit to Santiago and the Chilean coast at the end of March, my wife Kelly and I flew 1 hour over the Andes to take in the emerging wine region of Mendoza. In this temperate zone tucked away on the eastern slope of the snow-capped mountains, peaks such as Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas, rise to 22,834 ft. Here couples and groups of friends will find the ideal place to Continue reading

How to Plan a Seamless Adventure Trip to 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