South America overland adventure, 4 months

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

Shared Local Transport: This overland journey uses a custom expedition truck that transports up to 24 travellers together. This significantly reduces per-person CO? emissions compared to individual travel or multiple internal flights. Additionally, after visiting Salento, there is an opportunity to travel by local bus to Santa Fe De Antioquia, a colonial town known for its art galleries and architecture.

Human-Powered Transport: The itinerary includes multiple days of walking and hiking. Notable examples include:
• Torres del Paine National Park: Day hikes and optional multi-day W-Trek.
• Lake Titicaca: Walking on the floating islands and during the homestay.
• Cartagena: Walking tours through the historic old city.
• Banos: Optional hikes to waterfalls like El Pailon del Diablo.

Camping and Group Cooking: Around half of the accommodation is camping, which typically has a lower carbon footprint than hotels. Group cooking using shared equipment helps reduce energy use and food waste.

Local and Plant-Based Food Options: Meals are prepared by cook groups using locally sourced ingredients from markets. Vegetarian and vegan options are available and encouraged, especially during camping and in urban areas. Helping reduce the carbon footprint of food consumption.

Carbon Awareness: Travelers are advised to bring reusable water bottles and use purified water carried on the truck, reducing plastic waste. The trip also promotes responsible travel practices such as avoiding bottled water and using solar-powered gear.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

Protected Areas and Conservation Fees: The trip includes entry to several protected areas. Entry fees are included and support conservation efforts.
• Torres del Paine National Park (Chile)
• Tayrona National Park (Colombia)
• Esteros del Ibera Wetlands (Argentina)
• Colca Canyon (Peru)

Support for Biodiversity:
• Esteros del Ibera: A 3-night stay in Colonia Carlos Pellegrini, a village base in the wetlands, includes wildlife viewing and a boat trip. Species include caiman, capybara, marsh deer, and potentially giant river otters.
• Amazon Basin (Tena, Ecuador): A 2-day jungle experience with guided walks and canoe trips through biodiverse rainforest.

Local Nature Guides: In regions like Lake Titicaca, the Amazon, and Salento, local guides are employed to lead tours. This supports community-based conservation and ensures culturally and ecologically informed experiences.

Environmental Awareness: Travellers are introduced to diverse ecosystems and conservation challenges across nine countries. Guides share insights into local biodiversity, threats, and sustainable practices during excursions.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

Locally Owned Accommodations:
• Lake Titicaca: Overnight homestay with a local family on Isla Amantani or Taquile.
• Colonia Carlos Pellegrini: Accommodation in a village base within the Esteros del Ibera wetlands.
• Camping: Often located in rural or community-run sites.

Support for Local Enterprises: The itinerary includes visits to local markets, coffee plantations (Salento), artisan towns (Santa Fe De Antioquia), and cultural sites like Chan Chan ruins. These experiences support small businesses and heritage tourism.

Local Payment System: A fixed Local Payment is made in cash to the tour leader at the start of the trip. This system ensures that a significant portion of the trip’s operational costs, such as meals, accommodation, fuel, and local services, is paid directly within the countries visited, supporting local economies and reducing reliance on international transactions.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

Local Employment: Local guides are employed in multiple regions including Lake Titicaca, the Amazon, and Salento. A significant portion of the workforce is drawn from the communities visited, especially for excursions and accommodation.

Fair Pay and Ethical Practices: Staff and partners are paid fairly, with a commitment to ethical employment practices. The trip promotes inclusivity and welcomes travellers of all backgrounds.

LGBTQ+ Friendly: The trip is LGBTQ+ friendly, with a diverse group environment and inclusive policies. Guides are trained to foster respectful and safe travel experiences for all participants.

Accessibility: Due to the rugged nature of overland travel and camping, this trip may not be suitable for travellers with limited mobility or certain disabilities. However, get in touch to see if this trip is suitable for you.