What’s cool and dry and full of stars? Chile’s Atacama Desert!

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Picture yourself traveling into space and soon landing on Mars. As you step out of the spaceship, you encounter rugged terrain, ravines, rocky mountains, and sand spread out as far as your eyes can see. The desert resemblance is otherworldly, and the thought of exploring the landscape leaves you feeling excited. Fortunately, you get a similar experience right here on earth at the world-renowned Atacama Desert in Chile.

Many consider the landscape of the Atacama to be like that of the planet Mars with its red rock formations.

For years, Atacama has been of interest to tourists, with many traveling to the area for the ultimate desert travel experience. The 41,000 square mile area is considered the oldest desert and one of the most beautiful places on earth. If you are up for an “out-of-the-box” holiday, this South American desert is your next stop.

Get a taste of a desert-like climate

Often referred to as the driest desert in the world, its conditions have stayed the same for millions of years. Its landscape is diverse and dictated by its weather, with some areas not receiving rain for more than a hundred years.

While areas of the Atacama have never received rainfall, its mountain peaks still can be snow covered.

When you get to the Atacama, the first thing you will notice is that it’s not as hot as you would have imagined. During summer, the temperatures are about 65 degrees Fahrenheit, which is normal room temperature. So, buying new clothes for this trip may not be necessary as your usual travel clothes will suffice. At night, you can expect temperatures even lower depending on your location within the desert.

Snowy mountains in the desert may seem unusual in such a dry area, but this isn’t true for the Atacama. The 20,000 feet high mountains and their

snow-dusted peaks are breathtaking when seen from afar and are much more captivating as you move closer.

Discover the desert animals

Although some areas of the desert are so dry and cannot even support bacterial life, some animals still thrive in the terrain. It is common to see herds of Vicuña, a member of the camelid family, hopping from one rock formation to another. The protected animal with a thick soft coating may sometimes be spotted alongside the llama. Other fluffy creatures living in the desert are the viscacha, gray, and culpeo foxes.

Pink flamingoes are one of the most resilient animals in the Atacama and stand out on the desert landscape. The beautiful bird species, namely yellow-legged Andean, Chilean, and Puna) are found along the saline lagoons. The birds have uniquely adapted to the area and live off the algae at the salt flats for their survival. You can get up close to the birds, who aren’t bothered by humans, making it easier for you to click away with your camera. In addition to flamingoes, are Humboldt Penguins that often swim in the cold currents off the Chilean coast and sometimes nest along the coastal regions of the desert.

Small herds of vicuña, a relative of llamas and guanacos, can be found in the Atacama.

Many insects also call Atacama home with beetles and grasshoppers forming the largest population. The predators of these insects are also present, such as lizards, frogs, and birds that can be spotted at almost every corner you turn.

Check out magical sights

Chile is a country full of historical landmarks with many located within the Atacama Desert. The attractions date back many centuries, with the Atacama Giant being one of the oldest. One of the most famous geoglyphs is an illustration of a deity on a hillside used to predict rain by the local people. The large image which stands at 390 feet is one of the largest ones discovered with several small ones surrounding it.

Quite the unusual sight, the Hand of the Desert, reaches out of the sand in to reach for the stars.

As you move through the desert, you will come across Mano del Desierto, a massive hand that stands at a height of 11 meters. Also known as the Desert Hand, the sculpture was put up in the 1980s by Chilean sculptor Mario Irarrázabal. The sculpture is a reminder of the frailty of humans, their loneliness, and their pain regardless of their location in the world.

El Tatio geysers are one of the highest geyser fields in the world and worth the trip to the Atacama.

Visitors need to reach the field early in the morning, which means enduring icy temperatures before the eighty geysers give off steam. As dawn approaches and the weather gets warmer, you get a picture-worthy spectacle of billowing clouds crowned with the sun’s rays.

A visit to the non-polar desert is incomplete without a visit to Salar de Atacama near San Pedro de Atacama. The salt flat, which is the largest in Chile, is beautiful up close, with no drainage outlets. Its mountainous surrounding makes it the perfect image of nature with steaming volcanoes, lunar landscapes, and saline lagoons. It is home to many types of wildlife with the most popular being pink-colored flamingoes.

Come see the Atacama in full bloom courtesy of the El Nino rains which results in desert flowering. The beautiful wildflowers cover several fields and are sustained by unusually high rains that fall on the arid land. To see this rare phenomenon with other tourists, you will need to visit the area from September to November.

Expect to have fun

The Atacama can also be a playground for adventure lovers seeking to explore the terrain on wheels. Death Valley Dunes is a 330 feet high dune in the desert that’s perfect for a quad ride. Riding to the top of the dune requires lots of energy, but this is rewarded by a stunning view of the vast alien-like landscape. If you want to enjoy the trip down, you can always carry a skating board to the summit and then surf down at a thrilling speed.

Chile’s Atacama is home to over 5000 geoglyps, including the Giant Man.

For a more relaxed day out, visit San Pedro, a former copper-mining town with lots of places to see and a favorite with tourists. Its main street, Caracoles, has several buildings, a pretty plaza, and a historic church worth visiting. Make sure to sample Chilean delicacies at the restaurants and cafes in the tranquil town.

Experience Atacama Desert in the hands of a professional no matter your country of origin. I will handle all the travel details on your behalf and ensure your first desert travel experience is unforgettable! Are you ready to consider a desert exploration?  Now’s the time so call me!

Pat Ogle-CollinsWhat’s cool and dry and full of stars? Chile’s Atacama Desert!
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Galapagos wildlife looks the same whether you visit by land or sea!

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When planning the vacation of a lifetime, the question isn’t “should I visit the Galapagos,” but rather “should I visit the Galapagos by land or by sea?” There are pros and cons to each, but whichever option you choose, you’re sure to have a fantastic adventure that’s guaranteed to be an experience you’ll never forget.

The Galapagos, located in the country of Ecuador, is a bucket-list trip for many nature lovers looking to experience all the wonder and excitement the archipelago has to offer. Known as the birthplace of evolution, Charles Darwin famously

Because the Galapagos is a destination composed of 13 major islands, most assume cruising is really the only way to go, but land-based tours are an increasingly popular option.

studied the wildlife on the islands and wrote “The Origin Of Species,” which changed the way people viewed our existence in the universe. Today, the Galapagos Islands are a popular tourist destination while still maintaining the protection needed to guard the extensive species of wildlife that call the region home.

Galapagos by Land

Many people feel wary about setting sail aboard a cruise ship due to motion sickness or a fear of water. For those not thrilled with the thought of traveling by sea, there are many excellent vacation opportunities on land that are equally as fun. The Galapagos has four inhabited islands vacationers can visit: San Cristobal, Isabela,

Regardless of how you visit the Galapagos, Puerto Ayora, the capital of Santa Cruz, draws bucket list travelers, sea lions and pelicans because of its beautiful port.

Santa Cruz, and Florena. Each one offers a unique experience all its own. If you choose to stay on land, locals recommend you split your time between at least two islands to maximize your opportunities for adventure. The two most common choices are Isabela and Santa Cruz.

Isabela is the largest island in the archipelago and is home to a volcano, tortoise breeding center, highlands, wetlands, and a glorious white sand beach. Many choose to stay in a hotel either right along the beach or high above in the lush forest.

Santa Cruz is the capital of Puerto Ayora and a bustling town full of life and energy. Local restaurants and shops feature the unique tastes of the islands, making Santa Cruz an excellent place to get a feel for the culture. It’s also home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, highlands, and the world-famous Tortuga Bay, considered the most beautiful beach in the archipelago.

Staying on one of the islands offers pros and cons, and it’s important to understand them all before making your decision. There’s no right or wrong choice; it’s all about what suits your needs and makes you the most comfortable.

Pros

  • Staying on land offers you more flexibility for touring various destinations. You’re not controlled by strict scheduling like those staying on a ship, so you can explore at your own pace.
  • There are more options for luxury hotels that offer a wide range of amenities. Many hotels provide luxury land-based packages that are all-inclusive and make planning your stay easier.

Land travelers can’t avoid the sea entirely in the Galapagos relying on ferries from the Santa Cruz ferry port.

  • When you stay on an island, more of your money goes toward helping the local economy. You can support local tour operators, lodging, and restaurants, helping grow the region’s economy.
  • Staying on land gives families more accessibility options, which is especially useful for those with small children or the elderly. Many ships don’t allow children under the age of seven, so choosing to stay on the islands provides everyone, regardless of age, the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Galapagos.
  • You also have the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you want to spend a day relaxing poolside, you have the option. You can also choose to come back to the hotel to rest throughout the day, which is not a possibility for those staying aboard a boat.
  • There is also less chance of experiencing motion sickness since you can choose to avoid excursions that require boat access. Although not using any form of seacraft does limit the number of adventures you can go on, it is possible to avert boats altogether if you plan accordingly.
  • More custom excursion opportunities are also available when you stay on the islands. You can create the perfect vacation to suit everyone in your group.
  • You have easier access to diving day trips than if you stayed on a ship, which is exciting if you want to explore more of the sea.

Some of the Galapagos islands, like Ferandina, can only be accessed via a cruise.

Cons

  • Unless you book a well-established island hopping tour package, you can spend the majority of your time negotiating to and from your excursions, leaving minimal time for your actual adventure. Also, on single-day sightseeing tours, you’re not guaranteed the same tour guide or group every day, and their experience levels may vary.
  • More of your daytime hours will be spent in transit, with crossings between islands

generally taking 2-3 hours and can take up to 4 hrs with rough waters.

  • Smaller boats can’t be avoided for those concerned with motion sickness unless you stay on one island and avoid diving/snorkeling excursions.
  • You’ll miss out on cruise-only islands.

Galapagos by Sea

In the past, more visited the Galapagos by sea, but it is still a popular option today. Due to the conservation efforts in the area, only two size boats are allowed, small, which houses 80-100 vacationers, and intimate only allowing up to 40 passengers. When staying on a ship, it’s important to note your schedule is more structured, and those aboard a sailboat should expect limited use of sails due to these tighter schedules.

Pros

  • Staying aboard a ship allows for the most efficient itineraries since you don’t spend hours traveling to your destinations during the day; you simply wake up to your new adventure spot.
  • More islands are available like Fernandina and Genovesa, which are only open to cruise ship passengers.
  • You’ll have access to the highest quality naturalists.

The Ecuadorian government and the Galapagos tightly regulate cruises with ships limited to a maximum of 100 passengers.  Most ships carry between 12 and 16 passengers.

  • You create a smaller ecological footprint.
  • You can disconnect easier since there is limited cell phone and internet service onboard.
  • Avoid hotel hopping and unpacking multiple times.
  • The all-inclusive packages include your meals.
  • Every itinerary is action-packed with exciting adventures.

Cons

  • You travel with the same group of people for the entire trip .
  • Often more costly than vacationing on land.
  • There’s an increased opportunity for motion sickness.
  • Many ships don’t allow children under seven.

Guide are required on the Galapagos and ships draw the best of the best.

Vacationing in the Galapagos is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, either on land or by sea. Both options feature fantastic adventures and are guaranteed to create lifelong memories. Now you can choose your ideal way to experience everything the Galapagos offers and see what everyone is raving about. So what are you waiting for? Call me to start making your plans to check this off your list today!

Pat Ogle-CollinsGalapagos wildlife looks the same whether you visit by land or sea!
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The train befitting its namesake explorer!

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Visiting the new Seven Wonders of the World is a life-changing adventure, so don’t settle for a mundane travel experience. Step aboard the Hiram Bingham Train and immerse yourself in Peruvian culture and world-class dining from the opulence of this first-class railway. From the moment you set foot on the Rio Sagrado Station in Cusco to your arrival at Machu Picchu, the Hiram Bingham surrounds you in luxury. Your ticket aboard this one-of-a-kind train includes a three-course meal, locally produced wine, and plenty of authentic Peruvian culture.

Phote courtesy of Belmond/Genivs Loci.  Why travel by ordinary train thru beautiful countryside when you can enjoy the experience of an extraordinary journey on the Hiram Bingham.

When you arrive, a concierge greets you, dressed in a blue and gold uniform to match the train’s aesthetic. I recommend slowly enjoying the sparkling wine they hand you; it’s locally sourced and said to be delicious. The interior of the Hiram Bingham is adorned in polished wood and glistening brass, meant to invoke the decor from the 1920s. The seats and curtains are upholstered in velvet, giving the train a rich warmth.

Photo courtesy Belmond/Adrian Houston;  The Hiram Bingham’s staff make yourjourney memorable.

Your three-hour trip takes you through the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba Valley, locally known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The train runs alongside and crosses over the Urubamba River, which is crystal clear with icy mountain runoff and helps to nourish the valley. As you wind through the Peruvian countryside, rolling mountains and local villages are dotted throughout, many containing traditional stone and adobo homes. There are two dining cars and an observation car with an open

deck where you can take in the scenery and smell the fresh air. I highly recommend spending some time on the open deck observation car, taking in the smells and seeing the views up close and personal.

When it’s time to eat, head to one of the dining cars and get ready for a local taste sensation. All the ingredients used in your meal are traditional to the region, and many are locally sourced. An example menu of your three-course meal includes an appetizer of smoked trout with a Peruvian corn tamale. The main dish features Peruvian beef with fresh vegetables and local wine, and for a delicious finish, you’ll receive corn cheesecake with cloud forest coffee. Wine and non-premium beverages

Photo courtesy of Belmond/Matt Hind.  Atmosphere befitting the magnificence of the destination are hallmarks of the Hiram Bingham.

come with your ticket purchase, so you can continue to enjoy their full-bodied flavors throughout your journey.

After you’ve eaten, I recommend heading back to the observation deck where live music features the Peruvian Cajon, a box-shaped percussion instrument. In Peru, it’s common to see traditional musical styles merged with modern instruments like guitars, creating a sound unique to the region.

Photo courtesy of Belmond/Matt Hind.  Musicians ensure you experience local culture during your journey.

Many passengers say the music onboard is one of the highlights of their trip! It’s not uncommon for a dance party to emerge, so make sure you wear your dancing shoes on the train and bring those walking shoes for later.

Discovering the new Seven Wonders of the World is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Your trip doesn’t start once you get there; it begins aboard the Hiram Bingham Train. Surround yourself in luxury while eating locally sourced cuisine, admiring the

impeccable decor, and dancing to traditional live music unlike anywhere else on earth. For a travel experience worthy of the destination, I highly recommend traveling aboard the Hiram Bingham Train; you’ll be glad you did!

Ready for this journey like no other to a place like no other?  Give me a call today!

Pat Ogle-CollinsThe train befitting its namesake explorer!
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Argentina’s Los Glacieres National Park is full of it – I mean ice!

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Looking to explore Argentinian Patagonia but don’t know where to start? Everyone has heard of Buenos Aires, but Argentina also has some of the most incredible natural beauty on Earth outside of this vibrant city. Located in the southwest province of Santa Cruz, Los Glaciares National Park is home to awe-inspiring glacial lakes, mountains, and subpolar forests sure to take your breath away.

Despite the name, Los Glaciares National Park does not only house ice and snow. In the park’s Northern area, hikers can drink in the spectacular views of the

Mount Fitz Roy, the highest peak in Los Glacieres National Park, provides striking views and a challenge for mountain climbers.

lakes, rugged mountains, and ancient stone structures.  So let’s get started on our discovery of the park’s most incredible features, how to get there, and just what to do once you’ve arrived.

Getting to Los Glaciares

Los Glaciares National Park is divided into two halves: the northern half, comprising Mount Fitz Roy, El Chaltén, and Viadmo Lake, and the southern half, which includes major glaciers like Perito Moreno and Upsala, and Lake Argentino.

The easiest way to get to the spectacular southern glacial area is from El Calafate – a small town just outside the park’s borders. From here, rent a car or schedule a tour into the park’s center.

The town of El Chaltén at the base of Mount Fitz Roy serves as the base for hikers heading to Los Glacieres National Park.

For those traveling from Buenos Aires, catch a flight from either Aeroparque or Ezeiza International Airport to El Calafate. The whole journey should take around 3.5 hours, with a 30-minute taxi or bus ride into the town center once you’ve arrived.

The glaciers advance during June and December and recede between December and April. For the best experience of this incredible natural wonder, time your visit during the advancement months, as large glaciers like Spagazzini, and Perito Moreno will be at their most impressive.

If you want to see the mountains and hiking trails, make your way to El Chaltén at the base of Mount Fitz Roy. The best way to get to this adventure town is by renting a car or let others deal with the details and take a tour or hire a guide.

So Much To Do

Around half of Los Glaciares is covered by ice – explaining how this heritage-listed park got its name! By far the most impressive glacier, however, is Perito Moreno. Over 19 miles in length, with a maximum height of around 200 feet above water, this ice wall is both awesome and intimidating and is one of the biggest draws for visitors from around the world heading to the park.

Life in the glacial park isn’t just about ice and snow – no matter your fitness levels, traveling experience, or personal preferences, there is something for everyone! Here are some of the best activities to get involved in during your visit to Los Glaciares for a truly unforgettable experience.

Hike and Become One With Nature

For those not interested in glaciers, Los Glaciares offers fabulous hiking opportunities across the rugged mountain ranges located in the park’s

Amazing natural sculptures of ice in the form of icebergs create nature’s art gallery on Lake Argentina.

northern half. Among the most iconic peaks of Cerro Torre and Mount Fitz Roy lies some of the best walking trails that wind through the Los Glaciares, with options for everyone from the keen mountaineer to the casual hiker.

Mini-trekking on the Perito Moreno glacier.

The best way to access the hiking trails is from El Chaltén. Founded in the 1980s, this Patagonian town was built for the sole purpose of providing a base to adventurers wanting to explore the northernmost mountains of Los Glaciares.

For the experienced hiker, Laguna De Los Tres (also known as the Fitz Roy trail) is one of the most popular trails for a multi-day adventure and snakes around for spectacular views of Mount Fitz Roy and the surrounding ranges. However, if you want something more low-key (without sacrificing the breathtaking scenery), try your hand at Mount Vespignani. This easy hike is perfect for beginners and is easily accessible during all weather.

A word of caution – the northern half of the park is at high altitude, and those unaccustomed to the thinner air may experience altitude sickness. Pack appropriate supplies like sufficient water, sunscreen, and chocolate before heading out – compounds in the delicious dessert help moderate nausea and dizziness, and are great for an energy boost mid-way through your hike!

Explore the Ice on a Mini-Trek Adventure

The most popular activity for visitors to Los Glaciares is the mini-trek. For 90 minutes, you’ll don crampons attached to your shoes to  wander across the surface of Perito Moreno immersing yourself in the extraordinary natural beauty of the national park.

Glaciers are not static ice formations – instead, they are constantly moving and changing, and crevices and cracks can develop quickly and without warning. Due to the dynamic nature of Perito Moreno, visitors must join an authorized guided tour to take part in a mini-trek – many of the dangers of the landscape are difficult to see, and it’s easy to fall or injure yourself without proper guidance.

Mini-trekking is available all year-round, except for between June 1st and July 20th when the weather becomes too volatile. Perfect for hikers of all ages and fitness levels, mini-trekking is the ideal activity for those who want to experience the glacier without committing to a full-day exploration.

The reward for completing a trek on the Perito Moreno is whiskey (or other non-alcoholic beverage) with glacier ice!

Travel in Style During a Boat Excursion

For those who want a more deluxe experience of the glaciers, consider adding a boat cruise to your itinerary. Leaving from outside El Calafate, these luxury cruises cut through the waters of Lake Argentino in the shadows of the park’s most spectacular glaciers.  You can enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch in the shade of Spegazzini (Los Glaciares’ tallest glacier) before traveling along the awe-inspiring lip of Perito Moreno and Upsala glaciers as the afternoon sun makes the ice glow.

Enjoy not only the waters but also land on a day long boat excursion on Lake Argentina where you see glaciers, icebergs, some wildlife and beautiful scenery.

There are boat cruises to suit every budget and taste, but the best way to experience the magnificent ice mountains is on an all-day adventure – while you won’t be hiking, this is one activity sure to leave you breathless!

Kayaking Along Perito Moreno

You don’t just have to walk on the glacier to appreciate their raw natural beauty. If you’re not afraid of the cold, kayaking along Perito Moreno is the perfect way to experience the park from a different perspective. Designed for all skill levels, kayaking is an excellent activity for families, young travelers, or those looking to step outside their comfort zone.

Before your tour, you’ll be fully kitted out in thermal suits, drysuits, boots and gloves, and given proper instruction on how to navigate the waters of Lake

Argentino safely. If the idea of being so close to the glaciers makes you nervous, don’t fret – knowledgeable guides are careful to keep groups at a safe distance from the walls of the ice in case of any unexpected splits or calving.

Guided tours run from El Calafate daily, and you’ll gain a unique view of Los Glaciares’ largest glacier, as well as some local history from an experienced guide. Warm up after your kayak with some spiced hot chocolate, and take home photos of an adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Kayaking allows you to get a personal water-based experience with the Perito Moreno glacier.

Let a Wizard Plan Your Adventure

If you’re keen to explore the beautiful Los Glaciares National Park, contact me today! Whether you’re an enthusiastic outdoor lover, or want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique region for the first time, I can help you plan the perfect adventure that will take your breath away – and not just from the cold!

Pat Ogle-CollinsArgentina’s Los Glacieres National Park is full of it – I mean ice!
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