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Chile inspirations by Turavion

Our goal is to offer our clients a unique local experience in Chile by offering tailor-made programmes. Today we would like to introduce you to three interesting destinations in Chile. Let us inspire you for your next trip.


Aysén Region

Glaciers, fjords, and Chile's largest lake, Lago General Carrera, make this region a perfect destination to admire the beauty of Chilean landscapes.

Those who want to enjoy the surroundings at their own pace can also take a road trip along the Carretera Austral and visit some of the numerous national parks. Those who love trekking or mountain tours, or who enjoy fishing, will find many opportunities here.

A special attraction in this region is the "Capillas de Mármol" (Marble Chapels), limestone formations surrounded by the intense blue waters of Lake General Carrera.

This natural monument of Patagonia is situated on the route of the Carretera Austral and is a popular destination for enthusiasts of nature photography.


Elqui Valley

The Elqui Valley, only 30 minutes by car from the city of La Serena and the Pacific coast, is a wonderful destination to relax and unwind. Picturesque villages allow the visitor to experience Chile in its purest form, surrounded by unique contrasting landscapes that combine the flair of desert, mountains and green wine valleys.

The fertile valley between the Andes and the ocean is also the birthplace of the Nobel Prize winner for literature Gabriela Mistral and the home of the Chilean brandy and national drink, the Pisco. It is worth visiting one of the Pisco distilleries located along the way.

For sports and adventure enthusiasts, the valley offers hiking and cycling trails, horseback riding and tours with four-wheel drive vehicles.

And, last but not least, once night falls, visitors can enjoy the incomparable view of the stars. The Elqui Valley is the perfect place for stargazing enthusiasts and is one of the world's first International Light Sanctuaries due to its low light pollution.


Copiapó and Copiapó Valley

The tranquil town of Copiapó is located in the so-called "Small North" of Chile in the Atacama region, the driest desert in the world. The valley of the same name resembles an oasis where vineyards are located. Most of these vineyards are planted with grapes that are used to produce pisco, the country's national brandy. The landscape of the Copiapó valley stands out in contrast to the rocky desert.

Copiapó is also considered one of the most important mining towns in northern Chile. The Mineralogical Museum of the University of Atacama in Copiapó is rated as one of the five best mineralogical museums in the world.

In the surrounding area is the national park Pan de Azúcar. It is characterised by its endemic flora and fauna, penguins, archaeological remains and beautiful beaches.

A special attraction in this destination is the "Blooming Desert", a natural spectacle that occurs together with the climatic phenomenon "El Niño", when exceptional rainfall takes place in the desert between September and November, transforming the desert into a sea of flowers.


Destination news!


LODGE VALLE CHACABUCO ON CARRETERA AUSTRAL HAS NOW BECOME EXPLORA'S ALL-INCLUSIVE LODGE

In October 2021, Explora will open this lodge, situated in Patagonia National Park


CASA MOLLE, A LUXURY HOTEL IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ELQUI VALLEY

The hotel is located in the fertile Elqui Valley in Chile's "small north", an oasis nestled between the Andes and one of the clearest starry skies in Chile.


Chile from the Inside

THE “EYE OF THE WORLD” – STARGAZING IN CHILE

Chile enjoys more than 300 clear days per year, and, with little or no light pollution in the north, conditions are ideal for stargazing under open skies.


Thank you for your time and we look forward to hearing back from you!

Best.

Daniel


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Peru in depth by Valencia Travel Cusco

We are here to inspire and show you a different way of seeing life in order to help rebuild the world´s connections. We seek to be the place where you can plan your trips safely, reliably, and passionately for the months and years to come.


We observe the world, the traveller’s desire to travel again and we begin to dream of welcoming them back. Meanwhile, we prepare ourselves with advice from local experts, flexible booking conditions and personalized experiences that aims to fulfil our promise to provide life experience.


Best places to connect with the essence of Peru


Lake Titicaca and community tourism

If you are looking for a place to clear your mind, breathe fresh air and enjoy peace and quiet, Lake Titicaca is a great option. Imagine yourself paddling at sunset aboard a Polynesian canoe enjoying the vibrant colours of the sunset over the deep blue of Lake Titicaca, observing a wide range of native birds, or leaving your accommodation overnight for a fantastic astronomical observation in the clear sky of Lake Titicaca.


Choquequirao to Machu Picchu

The Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu, a challenging trekking expedition that gathers experienced hikers. Enjoy beautiful views, connect with nature, walk through unexplored archaeological sites, and last but not least, get ready to enjoy Machu Picchu by taking the opportunity to visit it, avoiding the crowds.


Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain to Machu Picchu

One of our first suggestions for travellers who want to combine trekking and culture. The route takes travellers through isolated areas at the foot of the impressive Ausangate mountain, the fifth highest peak in Peru, at more than 6,370 meters above sea level. Imagine walking with snowy mountains views, crystal clear lagoons, the impressive rainbow mountain of Winicunca and reaching the majestic mountain of Machu Picchu.


Humantay Lake


The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is by far one of the best treks in Peru and one of the most beautiful ways to get to know Machu Picchu. For all those thirsty for adventure, this is an unbeatable option. You will have the possibility to witness some impressive landscapes and some almost unknown Inca ruins. The Inca Trail is the ancient way of how the ancient Incas made a pilgrimage to Machu Picchu.


The Amazon rainforest

Enjoy all the magic aboard a luxurious and intimate river cruise in the Amazon river while exploring the jungle. It’s simply a perfect plan! After months of being in quarantine, this is a great trip idea to reconnect with nature while enjoying an exclusive stay on a small luxury cruise in the Amazon rainforest.


The Colca Canyon

One of the deepest canyons in the world. Its depth is twice as deep as the popular Grand Canyon. Its impressive views, the encounters with Andean Condors, walking routes along the landscape through different hiking paths make this place a mandatory stop for all tourists interested in exploring Peru.


Kuelap fortress

An ancient walled citadel built by the Chachapoyas, a civilization older than the Incas, is another magnificent location. The Chachapoyas, also known as the people of the clouds, lived in the Amazon cloud forest. It can be found in the north of Peru, away from the most popular tourist routes.


Gocta Waterfall

A two-level waterfall located in the upper Amazon basin in Peru. The waterfall can be seen miles away from the heart of the Chachapoyas region. It´s a place where you can feel the mist of the falls and hear the water’s roar. it’s one of the most special experiences to relax in several hotels and restaurants that are privileged with views of the falls.


Best hotels for a unique experience

It is located between the Vilcanota River and the Sacred Valley mountains. Tambo del Inka is a recognized 5-star hotel, being the only hotel in Urubamba with a private train station to Machu Picchu. Facilities include a swimming pool and spa where guests can enjoy a sunny day and relax.


The hotel was built on a 17th-century colonial hacienda next to the Vilcanota River. It is located just one hour from the city of Cusco. The hotel offers beautiful rooms decorated in colonial style, as well as other minimalist modern decorations.


In the heart of the Amazon - where Inkaterra's history began - is Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, located between the Tambopata National Reserve and the banks of the Madre de Dios River. 25 private cabins lie above logs, making a one of a kind experience.


This hotel is a dream place, rich in legends, Andean and colonial traditions amidst impressive settings. It is located in the district of Coporaque, on the banks of the Colca River, three hours from the city of Arequipa.


Popular amongst travellers who visit the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is an intimate Andean village with terraces, streams, stone paths, and 83 adobe houses in the heart of the magical cloud forest.


How do we imagine the future of travel?


Personalized trips will be the key to a better experience

Mass group trips have their days numbered. From places where you can have a deeper connection with nature, culture and with yourself. Travellers will have the opportunity to enjoy authentic experiences through itineraries constructed according to their own travel style and preferences.


Travel will focus more on humans than destinations.

People will want to reconnect with other people and cultures. We will greatly value knowledge, stories, songs and all kinds of learning that enrich our trip´s experience. We will also cherish the opportunity to share a bit of our culture with the local hosts and smile back. Learn to weave with artisans, harvest your own food with the guidance of farmers and share ancient stories.


Travellers will seek nature-based tourism experiences.

Amazing scenery, spotting wildlife opportunities, or maybe just a breeze of fresh air, will be one of the main reasons for travellers to choose it as their next vacation destination by minimizing the impact, contributing to the conservation of nature and the incredible people who work to achieve it.


People will travel with a purpose.

We believe in the power of tourism to empower and revalue local cultures while enriching the traveller's life with unique experiences. We will travel not only looking for the best prices available but also for the best value. We will spend our money not only considering the service itself, but how we will contribute to the causes we believe in.


We are looking forward to seeing the bright future for the tourism industry, but more than that, we are looking forward to being part of it.


Get in touch, we would love to hear from you!


Thank you.

Rene, Daniel and the whole team of Valencia Travel Cusco

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Ecuador & Galapagos by Adventure Journeys



Dear friends and travel colleagues, we hope that this newsletter finds you well.

We would like to bring to you some exciting and positive news about Ecuador and Galapagos.

We truly believe that the material put together by our expert team at Adventure Journeys will inspire you to look at Ecuador & Galapagos through our eyes and invite you to meet with us to explore potential opportunities for the future. Future trends? These are a few trends that we believe will shape travel to Ecuador in the next months.

Private Travel Adventure Journeys has been prepared to receive the new tourist trends and together with them the new requirements of future travellers. This rebirth will focus on private trips with small groups avoiding crowded areas that will provide clients exclusive once in a lifetime experiences.

Nature - outdoor activities Our approach to tourism, nature, off the beaten path destinations and the local community, is to offer sustainable and responsible programs tailored to each individual client helping Ecuadorian families, children in street conditions and social foundations.

Hands-on experiences Our main focus is to enrich the customer’s experience by providing hands-on cultural activities, off the beaten path destinations and unique experiences. Our in-depth knowledge and our passion for adventure allowed us to create a life-changing experience for our valuable travellers.

Boutique destinations We know it can be hard to find the perfect “tailor-made” tour for you, so we have carefully selected our suppliers and also the most beautiful and diverse landscapes and boutique destinations such as the Amazon jungle, impressive volcanoes, colonial cities and the unique Galapagos Islands to create the perfect trip for you in this fascinating country.

Why Ecuador?



- The Galápagos Islands, one of the most active volcanic regions in the world. Most of the 13 large islands, six smaller islands with many bird species, of which 28 are unique to the islands, including the Galápagos penguin, flightless cormorant, and waved albatross, and the 13 species of Darwin's famous finches.



- Quito, the capital of Ecuador, filled with colonial architecture and is the largest historic centre in South America. Preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its many old churches, beautiful public squares, and world-class museums.



- More than 20 off the beaten path one-day adventures to visit the most impressive volcanoes, colonial cities and unique places in this fascinating country.

Who are our guides?

Our founder has been a guide for many years, leading and developing tours around the country.


Our expert guides have professional backgrounds and are certified by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism and trained and certified in WAFA (Wilderness Advanced First Aid) International Certification. In addition, Adventure Journeys´ Staff has been trained with the skills to provide the best personalized and upscale service for our customers.


Top destinations

Quito (Unesco city) Quito, the capital of Ecuador, was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city and stands at an altitude of 2,850 m. Despite the 1917 earthquake, the city has the best-preserved, least altered historic centre in Latin America. The monasteries of San Francisco and Santo Domingo, and the Church and Jesuit College of La Compañía, with their rich interiors, are pure examples of the 'Baroque school of Quito', which is a fusion of Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish and indigenous art.


The Middle of the world

Mitad del Mundo means "The Equator". Even though the equator runs through many cities around the world, Quito has become famous for it. Mitad de Mundo consists of one dominant monument, smaller monuments that lead up to it, a small village that has been constructed around the equator site and a quaint museum. It is a truly fascinating and exciting attraction in Ecuador and is located just approximately 20 kilometres outside of Quito. The Equator was discovered and mapped out by a French geodesic expedition team that was led by an explorer named Charles-Marie de La Comdamine in the year 1736. Even though those early geographers were about 250 meters off the mark, it was an extraordinary feat at the time.


The Galapagos islands

Situated in the Pacific Ocean some 1,000 km from the South American continent, these 19 islands and the surrounding marine reserve have been called a unique ‘living museum and showcase of evolution. Located at the confluence of three ocean currents, the Galápagos are a ‘melting pot’ of marine species. The ongoing seismic and volcanic activity reflects the processes that formed the islands. These processes, together with the extreme isolation of the islands, led to the development of unusual animal life – such as the land iguana, the giant tortoise and the many types of finch – that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection following his visit in 1835.


Yasuni National Park

The Yasuni National Park is a beautiful natural treasure that can be found in the Napo Province just 190 miles away from the city of Quito. The sizable park covers an area of some 1 679 643 acres and features several camping sites where visitors can make themselves at home when they are not exploring the many wonders of the park. The park’s immense size and variety makes it one of the largest and most biologically diverse nature reserves in the country.



Otavalo Indigenous Market

The small mountain town of Otavalo is perhaps most renowned because of the famous market that has been established here. People from all over the world come to see the striking array of hand-crafted goods that are available in this local market every year. What makes the market so special? Well, none of the hand-crafted goods available here are commercialized versions of true original Ecuadorian crafts. Instead, they are diverse originals that hold their own and this can be seen in their elegance and timeless appeal. The inhabitants of Otavalo pride themselves on their clever business skills and their ability to continue to make a living from their crafting skills.


The volcanoes Avenue – Cotopaxi National Park

The Cotopaxi volcano, an almost perfect snow cone that rises to 5,897 meters is unique in the world and is perhaps, next to Galapagos, the greatest symbol of our natural geography, recognized worldwide. Thousands of climbers from all nationalities have achieved its peak and many others dream of doing it. Because it is located in the centre of the inter-Andean corridor and close to several cities such as Quito and Latacunga, Cotopaxi National Park is one of the most visited and where many people probably first touch snow.


Hotels In this section, you will find some of the hotels we believe will be used in the months to come and why!


Montemar Luxury Eco villas – Galapagos

Born out of the love for protecting the natural habitat of the Galapagos Giant Tortoise, Montemar consists of two villas, beautifully appointed and fully sustainable, located on 43-acres of private land on the island of Santa Cruz, Galapagos. The owners, your hosts, Reyna and Roberto, created Montemar with sustainability as their number one priority – the property produces most of its energy, collects rainwater, and has the lowest environmental footprint on the islands.


Casa Baronesa – Galapagos

Experience a level of peace, tranquillity, and privacy that is only available on such an idyllic island. The Casa Baronesa Waterfront Villa, is the ultimate island getaway. The entire second floor serves as the master suite (including a hot tub). Out the window you can see the most magnificent views of the Galapagos coastline. The dining and lounging areas also open up to unveil vast beach and ocean views, blanketing you in relaxation and calmness. With this Premium Class, oceanfront, private villa, there is no better way to enjoy one of the most spectacular and pristine archipelagoes on the planet.


Villa Scalesia – Galapagos

Villa Escalesia is a private small mansion available for the most exclusive guests, located in Puerto Ayora and overlooking Pelican Bay on the Island of Santa Cruz. Sitting on the water’s edge – our villa makes a stunning base for your Galápagos adventure escape. The layout lends itself perfectly to groups of friends or extended families looking for an alternative to a hotel.


Hacienda Santa Ana – Cotopaxi

In Cotopaxi you can find some hotels and haciendas but none can offer the history, comfort and adventure that Hacienda Santa Ana has prepared for you. While history is relived, the majestic landscapes of the Andean and the tranquillity of the place will envelop you creating a unique and unforgettable stay. Hacienda Santa Ana is located in the Cotopaxi valley between the Pasochoa, Rumiñahui and Sincholagua mountains, property that belonged to the company of Jesús (Jesuits), a religious community that was established there in the 1600s, which has been restored maintaining its original style.


Hotel Boutique Carlota – Quito

CARLOTA is a boutique hotel in a renovated historical house within the historic district of Quito. The house was built at the turn of the century circa 1905. In 1966 Doña Carlota Echeverría de Moreno acquired this house, which would be her home and her family’s for over 40 years. CARLOTA began in 2011, with the intent of preserving a historical landmark of great value to the city and to Doña Carlota. At the same time, the hotel aims to contribute to the city with an intimate, exclusive and innovative hospitality proposal that will enrich what the historic district has to offer.


A bit more about Adventure Journeys

- Our approach to tourism and the local community is to offer sustainable and responsible programs tailored to each individual client helping Ecuadorian families, children in street conditions and social foundations. - Adventure Journeys works daily in the awareness of the importance of the environment, especially the Yasuní National Park, which is a territory rich in biodiversity, plant and animal species that are almost extinct in other regions of the world. - Zero-waste, eco-consciousness, low impact and conservation is a plus in each or our itineraries. - Safety & Risk management is our priority in all operating systems. - Top of the line gear for adventure activities such as; trekking, camping, snorkelling, mountain climbing, paddle and MTB. - Women & Weaving Local project in Ecuador mainland near Otavalo and Pan Animalia stray dog shelter in the Galapagos Islands - Adventure Journeys Introduction Brochure

We hope that the information provided here will be of use.

Ecuador is currently open and we are here, ready to support our existing partners and all of those who would be interested in developing new and improve existing programs for Ecuador and the enchanted islands of Galapagos.

Thank you very much for your time and we wish you all the very best.

Daniel, Henry and all our team from Adventure Journeys.

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