Partner news: inside the Pantanal, sustainability milestones in Chile and a Colombian Christmas

This month our partners take us into the Pantanal with their product team, celebrate two sustainability milestones in Chile and share ideas for Christmas in Colombia and a small-group journey through Costa Rica.


Brazil – with Gondwana Brasil

From the field: a closer look at the Pantanal

In Brazil's wetlands, jaguars, cowboys and shifting landscapes coexist in a unique ecosystem where wildlife and local traditions create exceptional experiences.

In June, Gondwana's Product Director, Daniela, and Product Manager, Marina, travelled to the Pantanal to work alongside partners and local communities. Daniela explored the southern Pantanal, from Refúgio da Ilha, where conservation connects four biomes, to research projects in Nhecolândia and the vast plains of Aquidauana, known for giant anteater sightings.

Marina ventured into the northern Pantanal at Araras Ecolodge, shaped by 50 years of community stewardship, and Jaguar Camp, where riverside safaris offer wildlife sightings and a wealth of local knowledge. Local partners play a crucial role in sustainable wildlife tourism and biodiversity conservation across the region, and time in the field deepens the team's understanding of the Pantanal.

"Pantanal is a mosaic of experiences. Responsible tourism is what keeps the biome standing, and when someone books a trip here, they're casting a vote for the future of this place. Days like these remind me that product is never just what sits on a spec sheet. I came back with a detailed report, but also with something that no report can hold." – Marina Gomes, Head of Product, Operations and Quality, Gondwana Brasil


Chile – with Turavion

San Pedro de Atacama earns the Green Destinations Silver Award 2026

San Pedro de Atacama has been awarded the Green Destinations Silver Award 2026, recognising its commitment to sustainable tourism. The certification makes San Pedro Chile's only internationally certified tourism destination and one of South America's leading sustainable destinations, reflecting its ongoing work to protect its natural and cultural heritage while supporting local communities.

Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, world-class astrotourism, rich cultural heritage and unique experiences in the world's driest desert, San Pedro continues to set the standard for responsible tourism.

Santiago named Latin America's most walkable city

Santiago has been ranked Latin America's most walkable city and 25th worldwide in GuruWalk's Top 100 Walking Cities 2026. The ranking highlights the Chilean capital's blend of history, culture, gastronomy and green spaces, all against the backdrop of the Andes. From the colonial Plaza de Armas to the cafés and galleries of Lastarria, Santiago is a city to enjoy on foot.

Casa Solcor: a boutique hotel in the heart of San Pedro

Casa Solcor combines thoughtful design, warm hospitality and a commitment to sustainability, just minutes from the town centre. Known as "your home in the desert", it offers an authentic and welcoming base for an Atacama journey.


Colombia – with The Colombian Trip

A Colombian Christmas Story

The holiday season is the busiest of the year in Colombia, so booking early is the best way to secure the best views, the best rooms and exclusive private activities.

The Colombian Trip has curated a special journey, A Colombian Christmas Story (8 days / 7 nights), immersing travellers in local traditions across Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena, with experiences such as the Christmas Train, Medellín's world-famous light displays and a private Colombian Novena filled with music and gratitude on the Caribbean coast.


Costa Rica – with Horizontes

A small-group November departure

Horizontes' exclusive November 2026 departure brings together Costa Rica's highlights in one 11-day journey: volcanoes, cloud forests, pristine beaches and vibrant local culture, with expert guides, handpicked accommodation and small groups from beginning to end.


Ecuador – with Adventure Journeys

Experiences for the senses

Some places are worth a visit for a holiday; Ecuador invites complete sensory immersion. Within a matter of hours, travellers can move between the mist-laden cloud forests of the Andes, the living symphony of the Amazon and the breathtaking Galápagos, a geographic diversity few destinations can match.

Beyond its natural beauty, Ecuador offers unique experiences: standing on the Equator, walking alongside giant tortoises, and spending time with indigenous communities to learn from their ancient traditions.

Food is part of the journey too. From cacao crafted into world-class chocolate and high-altitude Andean coffee to tropical fruits, time-honoured regional recipes and the seafood of the coast and the Galápagos, each destination offers flavours that reflect its own heritage and landscape.


Thinking about Latin America? Our partners design every journey with their own teams on the ground. Get in touch and tell us what you'd like to experience.

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Partner news: Pantanal 2027, New Year's Eve in the Atacama and a new Caribbean destination

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Partner news: pumas and jaguars in Argentina, Medellín's Flower Festival and a new fee for Ilha Grande