Argentina and Chile holiday

Environment

The Puna region is extremely fragile, that's why our trips are designed and operated on the basis of environmental care and respect for the culture of the people and the nature of the Andes. We strive to operate all of our tours in a responsible manner. We work with local tour operators, tour guides and properties to ensure that they understand the importance of protecting the delicate local environment. During this tour, our guides understand that they have a responsibility for preserving and protecting the environment and wildlife of the Puna. They are also briefed on local issues and check on industrial activities in the area: in particular mining which they are able to report any abuses taking place.

We do everything possible to reduce our waste while travelling, using local cafes and restaurants. We also work extremely closely with our locally owned suppliers to inform and educate their staff about a range of issues, including litter and waste disposal, and the recycling of material. Clients are advised to bring their own water bottles rather than purchase plastic.

Community

As well as a local team of drivers and guides, we also use local guides in many of the places where we stop. We make sure that they are paid a wage which is generally higher than the local average. The guides are well trained and there are no additional costs associated with the training program. We try and use small, family run operations to ensure that we help sustain the community economy, and actively seek them out rather than using international chains.

In Tolar Grande, Pocitos Antofallita, El Mojon, Angastaco (in the Calchaquíes Valleys) to name a few; meals, breakfasts and snacks are prepared in houses of people who live in the area and, that over time, have learned to serve their guests the best way without abandoning its authenticity.

All of our trips include visits to local markets, craft shops and fairs. As well as being good for the local economy this gives travellers to the country a real feel for the life and culture of this remote area of Argentina and Chile.