T H E L A T I N A M E R I C A T R AV E L G U I D E
ASIA
AF RICA
EU R OP E
L AT I N A M E R I C A
N O RT H A M E R I C A
SO U T H PACIFIC
MIDDLE EAST
A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Ker & Downey got its start in the safari industry taking clients on once-in-a-lifetime journeys to the wild lands of the African bush. Our trips, combined with our expertise, have earned us numerous awards including “Best Safari Operator” and “World’s Best Tour Operator” from Travel + Leisure. After nearly 10 years of focus on African safaris, we branched out to include Latin America due to high demand from our repeat guests. Like a safari in Africa, all the elements that make a trip truly special are there — large swaths of untamed lands to explore, unique history and culture, amazing cities, breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, and luxury lodges to rival those found anywhere else in the world. Plus, there’s plenty of yacht charters, exclusive-use accommodations, private planes and helicopters, and remote glamping sites to boot. All these elements, combined with the knowledge of our destination specialists, make Latin America another award-winning destination. The biggest difference, of course, is the time zones. Since Latin America shares similar time zones with North America, you need less time to adjust, which means you have more time to explore. Unlike some of the ever-changing border restrictions around the world, Latin America has proved a consistent and accessible destination for those who wanted to travel during the pandemic. In fact, some from our staff recently traveled to Ecuador and the Galápagos, Mexico, Peru, Costa Rica, and Chile. Latin America has also turned into a major foodie destination. We are used to seeing Lima at the top of that list, but now Santiago, Buenos Aires, and Bogotá have pushed the fold with their exceptional A-list restaurants. And perhaps one of the biggest reasons to travel to Latin America, in my opinion, is its dedication to conservation. From Costa Rica to Chile, Latin America stands at the forefront of conservation and environmental protection. We’ve seen an increased dedication to the protection and restoration of wildlife, marine reserves, forests, and cultural traditions even when conventional tourism funds dried up during the pandemic. Latin America is THE destination to travel to in 2022 and 2023. Whether you just want to venture into Mexico, or head farther south to the tip of South America, we’re here to help you get there with a fully customized itinerary created just for you.
ON THE COVER: The colorful streets of
David Marek President
Guatapé, Colombia Photo by Robert Gomez on Unsplash
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CONSERVATION AT ITS CORE Latin America proves yet again that it is a leader in the global fight for conservation and environmental protection. Even when traditional tourism funds dried up during the pandemic, these initiatives continued their work in protecting and restoring wildlife, nature, and culture. By Haley Beham
Galápagos Marine Reserve ECUADOR
With the joint effort by Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia to expand their marine protected areas, the Galápagos Marine Reserve now connects to the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor, one of the largest protected marine areas in the world.
In January, Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso signed a declaration to expand the boundaries of the renowned Galápagos Marine Reserve by 23,000 square miles. The Gálapagos Marine Reserve has one of the richest concentrations of biodiversity on the planet. It’s home to a wide range of species, including green sea turtles and Galápagos penguins. With the expansion, the total area of protected marine habitat increased to 76,448 square miles. This is a huge step in ensuring the protection of migration routes of many endangered species that stretch from the Galápagos archipelago to Costa Rica, including hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and whale sharks. Additionally, with the joint effort by Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia to expand their marine protected areas, the Galápagos Marine Reserve now connects to the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor, one of the largest protected marine areas in the world.
Andean Condor Huasi Project ECUADOR
Through its esteemed Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation, Hacienda Zuleta is internationally regarded as one of the leaders in condor conservation and has spent the past 20 years attempting to produce condor chicks in captivity and release them into the wild. This is no easy feat, as condors are known to mate for life, do not reach reproductive status until seven or eight years old, and only produce one egg every one to three years. The Condor Huasi Project has seven condors, which includes two sets of breeding pairs and three juveniles. After several years and setbacks, both condor pairs have successfully hatched and raised chicks this past year. To have two breeding pairs is a huge blessing and encouragement for the Condor Huasi Project and the survival of the Andean condor.
Earthshot Prize Winner COSTA RICA
Photos courtesy of La Pinta | iStock | Fabio Fistarol on Unsplash
In October 2021, the Republic of Costa Rica won the first-ever Earthshot Prize in the Protect & Restore Nature category, a testament to the country’s conservation efforts. Launched by Prince William and The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the Earthshot Prize aims to find and reward initiatives that protect and restore nature, revive oceans, clean air, eliminate waste, and fix the climate. Although Costa Rica cleared most of its forests in the 1990s, the people of Costa Rica and the country’s Ministry for Environment came in with a plan to save them. Their plan involved paying local citizens to protect forests, plant trees, and restore ecosystems. Since executing this plan, Costa Rica has doubled the number of trees in their country. Today, flora and fauna thrive, the rainforest is revived, and ecotourism infuses upwards of $4 billion into the economy.
100% of the hotel’s profits are funneled directly into the Sol y Luna Foundation, an institution dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children in the Sacred Valley.
Sol y Luna Foundation PERU
Sol y Luna in the Sacred Valley is lauded worldwide for its style, hospitality, and setting. However, what makes the hotel truly special is that 100% of the hotel’s profits are funneled directly into the Sol y Luna Foundation, an institution dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children in the Sacred Valley. The Sol y Luna Home provides education and a stable and loving environment for 20 children from troubled backgrounds. Pre-pandemic, their funding came from bookings at Hotel Sol y Luna and donations from guests. These, of course, dried up during the pandemic, but they were still able to keep the children safe and secure, even when the property temporarily closed.
Photos courtesy of Sol y Luna | Explora
Patagonia National Park CHILE
The opening of Explora Patagonia in December 2021 has given luxury travelers a new reason to visit the “once-in-a-lifetime” destination. The 10-bedroom lodge enjoys a favored location within Chile’s Patagonia National Park, which is part of the Patagonia National Parks Network. The network of parks was formed by land donated to the Chilean state by the Tompkins Conservation Foundation (established by Douglas and Kristine Tompkins) and covers more than 750,000 acres (about the area of Yosemite National Park). The park has been internationally recognized as an example of grassland conservation after successfully reverting centuries of over-grazing and reintroduction of key plant and animal species. Through careful curation of guest activities and respect for the unique geography, Explora will be able to continue the conservation and rewilding work started by the Tompkins Conservation Foundation.
HORSEBACK JOURNEY
TRAILS THROUGH THE SACRED VALLEY 1 3 D AY S / 1 2 N I G H T S This Peru horseback riding journey is a luxurious physical, cultural, and spiritual 13-day escape. Your trusty steed leads you along the trails of the mysterious Incas to the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will have the chance to share in the culture and customs of local Andean families. You will also stay at enchanting mountain lodges and ride to majestic peaks with emerald-green glacial lakes. It is undoubtedly an unforgettable way to experience this mystifying land.
Photos courtesy of Mountain Lodges of Peru | Sol y Luna
S U G G E S T E D J O U R N E Y AT A G L A N C E : DAY 1: ARRIVE LIMA | HOTEL B DAY 2-3: CUSCO | PALACIO NAZARENAS, A BELMOND HOTEL DAY 4-8: HORSE RIDING DAYS | SACRED VALLEY | MOUNTAIN LODGES OF PERU DAY 9-10: MACHU PICCHU | INKATERRA MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO HOTEL DAY 11-12: SACRED VALLEY | SOL Y LUNA DAY 13: DEPARTURE
QUICK GETAWAYS IN LATIN AMERICA Whether you want to dip your toes back into the international travel waters, or you just want a quick getaway, look no further than Latin America. Direct flights and similar time zones make it both accessible and easy for those looking for a last minute escape. Here are five journeys, each seven days or less, that are perfect for a quick getaway. By Haley Beham
5 Days in Baja Relax and unwind in Baja California Sur. Mexico’s wild peninsula is the second longest in the world. And with ocean and mountain views, its beauty can’t be beat. Spend two nights by the beach enjoying delicious tacos and gorgeous Pacific sunsets. While there, ride the waves at Los Cerritos during a private lesson with a veteran surf instructor. Then move inland to the beautiful Sierra de la Laguna mountains to enjoy a two-night stay in a luxury tent situated in a mango and grapefruit grove. Spend time birdwatching or stargazing in the tranquil UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve. BEST WAY TO GET THERE Nearly every major airport hub in the USA offers direct flights to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). Furthermore, it’s less than three hours from Houston to Cabo, making it an ideal quick getaway. From Los Cabos, the rest of the Peninsula is within easy reach. Plus, for most of the year, Baja is in the same time zone as US Mountain Time.
6 Days in Costa Rica Explore the rich biodiversity Costa Rica has to offer. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, this unique journey will delight your senses. Take in the panoramic jungle views over majestic Lake Nicaragua from your remote mountainside lodge near the Tenorio Volcano and the stunning Llano de Cortes Waterfall. Then stay at an exclusive ocean retreat where you can picnic on a pristine, secluded beach on the untamed Gulf of Papagayo and savor exquisite cuisine prepared by your personal chef. After a few days of “pura vida,” you won’t want to leave this vibrant and beautiful country. BEST WAY TO GET THERE
Photos courtesy of Nick Dunlap on Unsplash | Origins Luxury Lodge
Costa Rica is just about a four-hour flight from Dallas or Atlanta. Costa Rica is also on Central Time, so travelers don’t have to worry about jet lag, which is ideal for a quick getaway.
7 Days in Argentina All you need is seven days in Argentina to experience unabashed luxury, vibrant cultures, and award-winning wines. Visit Buenos Aires, the “Paris of the South” and take in its Bohemian charm and European-flavored sophistication with tours of the city and a tango show. Head out of the city to the Andes Mountain foothills and the vineyards of Mendoza, an area known as the “land of good sunshine and good wine.” The wine industry in Argentina continues to make noise in the wine world. Check it out for yourself with wine tastings in the Uco Valley, regarded as one of the top wine areas in Argentina. BEST WAY TO GET THERE Many cities in the United States offer direct flights to Buenos Aires. New York City and Miami are the most common, while Atlanta, Houston, and Washington, DC, also offer regular options.
Photos courtesy of The Vines Resort & Spa | iStock | Matias Santana on Unsplash | Nathana Rebouca on Unsplash
6 Days in Guatemala Guatemala is an excellent option for a quick jaunt from the States. Active volcanoes and expansive cave systems pair with private helicopters and jungle glamping on this packed journey to Guatemala. Begin in colonial Antigua, spending three days exploring the historic city. Rise early for a sunrise hike on Chigag volcano. Take a deep dive into the mysterious Owl Caves in Flores and spend an evening glamping in the jungle in Petén. Fly via private helicopter to Mirador, where you will explore the Mayan city of El Mirador. The ruins here are impressive, with the Tiger Pyramid soaring 18 stories high and covering an area the size of three American football fields. Spend a final night enjoying a waterfront suite before heading back, all in a week’s time. BEST WAY TO GET THERE From Houston, you can land in Guatemala City in less than three hours.
Spend a week soaking in the tranquil beauty and rich culture of Colombia. Your stay in an exclusive-use Andean hacienda offers unparalleled views of majestic mountains and stately coffee plantations. Visit scenic waterfalls in verdant jungle by horseback. Then return to your accommodation for a feast of local and seasonal delicacies. Spend a day in Medellín learning about the city’s recent social transformation before you fly to Barichara for a few nights in an iconic private villa, previously occupied by a former president.
Steeped in history, Casa del Presidente showcases local arts and crafts and offers a unique view into the history of the region, from indigenous stories to German colonial influence and modern life in the traditional town. BEST WAY TO GET THERE Colombia is extremely accessible and incredibly convenient for last minute getaways. From Miami or Orlando, you can be in Cartagena in under three hours or Medellín in under four hours, making this quick getaway to Colombia one of our most accessible jaunts around the world.
Photos courtesy of Perry Grone on Unsplash | Reiseuhu on Unsplash
7 Days in Colombia
U LT R A L U X E J O U R N E Y
EXCLUSIVE COLOMBIA 1 1 D AY S / 1 0 N I G H T S Luxury travel to Colombia just got an upgrade. Private villa accommodations, private helicopter flights, private charter transfers, and private afterhours access. This Exclusive Colombia Tour pulls out all the stops. Let Ker & Downey take you to Bogota, Barichara, Tayrona National Park, and Cartagena in supreme style and comfort.
Photos courtesy of iStock
S U G G E S T E D J O U R N E Y AT A G L A N C E : DAY 1-2: BOGOTA | FOUR SEASONS CASA MEDINA DAY 3-4: BARICHARA | CASA DEL PRESIDENTE DAY 5–7: TAYRONA | VILLA TAYRONA DAY 8-10: CARTAGENA | CASA DE LA RENTA DAY 11: DEPARTURE
HOT TO TROT Openings, revamps, and the latest travel news in Latin America. By Haley Beham
Sofitel Barú Calablanca
Sofitel Barú Calablanca
Aqua Mare
COLOMBIA
GALÁPAGOS
Cartagena has long attracted travelers to discover its incredible art, culture, cuisine, and history. But with the opening of Sofitel Barú Calablanca just off the coast of Cartagena on the island of Barú, luxury travelers have another reason to visit. The Sofitel Barú Calablanca was designed to combine natural seaside materials and local artisanal décor with Sofitel’s renowned French sophistication. Each of its 187 rooms and suites face the Caribbean Sea.
This May the first true super yacht in the Galápagos Islands takes to the waters. The Aqua Mare, originally designed and built by Italian luxury mega yacht builders CRN Yacht and refurbished in 2021 by Aqua Expeditions, incorporates original custom interiors designed by famous yacht designer François Zuretti. Aqua Expeditions added two spacious cabins for a total of seven luxurious suites. Take in the incredible Galápagos landscape on the panoramic sun deck or down at the “Beach Club” located at water level and complete with a swimming platform. Sixteen crew, including two naturalist guides, provide exceptional service and attention to detail, creating the ultimate retreat for exploring the endemic wildlife and nature of the Galápagos Islands.
Three restaurants and seven bars serve everything from farm-totable Mediterranean cuisine to a slow-cooking grill set in a relaxed, Bohemian setting. Take to the water to explore 60 different species of coral and the other aquatic species who call this tropical paradise home. And the fun isn’t just for adults. There’s a kid’s club and dedicated family pool with plenty of activities designed for the youngest adventurers. It’s about 60 minutes by car from Cartagena, but we recommend arriving via the 25-minute yacht ride.
Photos courtesy of Aqua Mare | Explora | Susan Balbo Unique Stays
Explora Patagonia CHILE
Explora has long been a leader in bringing luxury to the most remote regions in South America. With their latest opening, they are bringing their expedition-style travel to the southern tip through 32 handcrafted explorations designed for immersion and discovery of Patagonia National Park. Originally built in 2006, their 10-room lodge is set in the Chacabuco Valley in Patagonia National Park. Built of stone and recycled wood, it blends into the surroundings without interfering with the natural environment wherever possible. Refurbishments and renovations to the lounge, exploration and meeting areas, and bar give it the distinct minimalist Explora style. Seasonal and local products grown by small producers in Patagonia are used to create a cuisine reflective of the gaucho lifestyle throughout the region and are paired with wines selected exclusively from Chilean wineries.
Susana Balbo Unique Stays: SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites ARGENTINA
The Susana Balbo Unique Stays: SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites is quite unique. Just opened in February 2022, and set in the vibrant Mendoza suburb of Charcras de Coria, the brand-new boutique hotel was designed by Argentina’s first female winemaker Susana Balboa and her daughter Ana Lovaglio Balboa. Seven glass-walled suites each face a private garden and come stocked with a cellar of wines curated for your stay. Their newly launched Wine Expeditions are beyond exclusive and innovative. Set out on an aerial safari to iconic and remote destinations in Argentina (like the Andes Mountains or Patagonia) aboard the only amphibious plane in Latin America.
CLASSIC JOURNEY
CLASSIC CHILE LUXURY TOUR 1 5 D AY S / 1 4 N I G H T S This Classic Chile Luxury Tour captures all of Chile’s best highlights. From Atacama in the north to Patagonia in the South — and the lakes and wineries in between — see this stunning and diverse South American destination in style with Ker & Downey.
S U G G E S T E D J O U R N E Y AT A G L A N C E : DAY 1-3: ATACAMA | EXPLORA ATACAMA DAY 4: SANTIAGO | THE SINGULAR SANTIAGO DAY 5–7: PUERTO VARAS | HOTEL AWA DAY 8-9: PUERTO BORIES | THE SINGULAR PATAGONIA DAY 10-12: TORRES DEL PAINE | EXPLORA TORRES DEL PAINE DAY 13-14: MILLAHUE | VIK CHILE DAY 15: DEPARTURE
SEE THE REAL
CHILE The Singular Hotels is launching a brand-new Heritage Stewardship Program to help travelers get to know the real Chile. The program includes specially curated tours, unique educational opportunities, commitments to cultural preservation, and much more. The first activity in the Heritage Stewardship Program is the Secretos del Barrio tour at The Singular Santiago. The tour takes guests on a journey around the Lastarria neighborhood to learn about its secrets. Comprising seven unique local spots, guests learn about the famed poet Pablo Neruda, how the city was built, and the history behind many local landmarks. Contact Ker & Downey or your travel specialist to include “Secretos del Barrio” in your next custom journey. +1 800-423-4236 | KERDOWNEY.COM
A FEAST FOR THE SENSES See what restaurants made the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in Latin America and why you should grab a seat at one of these coveted tables. By Amy Willis
Dried Chilean hazelnut mariscal
Boragó SANTIAGO, CHILE
For a completely unique food concept, look no further than Boragó. Head chef Rodolfo Guzmán pulls from the Mapuche culture, the indigenous hunters-gatherers of Chile, and developed a process of introducing native ingredients and techniques found in surrounding territories. The relationships he has built with these foraging communities and small producers complement a highly seasonal menu named “Endémica,” filled with fresh foods and flavors that cannot be found elsewhere. Even the water served comes from the rain in Patagonia, making every attention to detail purely Chilean.
HOT TIP: Bring the Chilean experience full circle with a visit to a local Mapuche
community to witness their ancient method of roasting organic wheat and taste their traditional home cooked fare.
LEO BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA
Bogotá’s culinary scene is heating up thanks to the unlikely ingredients used by award-winning local celebrity chef, Leonor Espinosa. Also crowned Latin America’s Best Female Chef in 2017, Espinosa pulls from Colombian ecosystems, finding creative ways to use different species in the dishes. Items like crushed ants and snails pair nicely alongside dried shrimp. Guests can also see how far the chef had to travel to source the foods used. There are several multi-course tasting menus to choose from, showcasing a little bit of everything that this rich region has to offer. HOT TIP : Try one of the refreshing nonalcoholic beverages like the corozo berry juice or the corn drink.
Chef Leonor Espinosa Photos courtesy of LEO; Juan Pablo Gutiérrez | Boragó
Central
Don Julio
LIMA, PERU
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
From the depths of the exotic Amazon to the mountains of the Sacred Valley, Central aims to connect Peruvian history, tradition, and culture with sustainable and locally sourced plates, making for an elevated and rich dining experience in the heart of Lima.
Nothing pairs together better than a juicy steak and a glass of malbec. In Buenos Aires, parrillas are king, and Don Julio is the spot for both. All beef is grass-fed Aberdeen Angus and Hereford cattle, raised in the countryside outside Buenos Aires. Go for the house cuts like bife de cuadril (rump steak) and entraña (skirt steak) and complement the main course with one of over 14,000 Argentine wines.
HOT TIP: Dive further into Peru’s
culinary treasures during a private cooking workshop with a top renowned chef in Lima. Lima is home to 7 of the top 25 restaurants in Latin America — so there is no shortage of all-star chefs to choose from.
HOT TIP: Leave your mark at Don
Julio by signing and leaving a message on a wine bottle that will live amongst the many bottles enjoyed by guests.
Pujol MEXICO CITY, MEXICO
Pujol has consistently ranked among the top restaurants in the world since opening in 2001. Choose from a flavorful set tasting menu or go omakase-style and let chef Jesús Durón create a masterpiece of traditional mouth-watering Mexican dishes that are sure to satisfy. HOT TIP: When in Mexico,
mole is a must. Dig into Pujol’s most asked for dish, the “Mole madre, mole nuevo”, which has been continuously aged for over 3,000 days, making it a completely unique plate.
Photo courtesy of Carlos Aranda on Unsplash
Photo courtesy of Sol y Luna
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