Specialist Cultural Holidays

Latin America, with its lush hidden valleys, colonial cities, forest dwelling indigenous tribes and ancient rituals is certainly not lacking in cultural and historical highlights.

Many indigenous tribes such as the Huaorani and Quichua as well as several other uncontacted tribes call the Amazon basin their home. Learning about their unique traditions and customs is an eye-opening experience. Many of the eco-lodges work with some tribes to promote conservation of the area and offer the chance to see the rainforest from an indigenous perspective.

Ecuador’s capital city Quito was one of the first World Cultural Heritage sites listed by UNESCO in 1978, and is the best place to learn about the country’s rich history. The exquisitely preserved Old Town is a major draw, packed with ancient colonial churches and graceful Republican homes. The Avenue of Volcanoes is peppered with indigenous towns that offer an insight into traditional Ecuadorian life, such as Otavalo’s colourful Saturday market.

Peru is unrivalled in South America for its archaeological wealth, fascinating historical sites and ancient cultures. One of the best ways to soak up the region’s history and culture is to tackle the iconic Inca Trail leading up to Machu Picchu, a once in a lifetime bucket-list experience. Lake Titicaca, believed to be deeply spiritual and the origin of the Incan Empire, is another must-visit. The lands surrounding the lake are packed with ancient culture that still live on today. The Sacred Valley of Peru, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is home to a wealth of Incan treasures as well as charming villages where the customs of the local people are deep-rooted in their daily lives.

Mexico has its own cultural and historical fascinations in Chichén Itzá, a collection of temples, columned arcades and pyramids that together form the most famous of the Yucatan Maya sites. The best known structure within the complex is the Temple of Kukulkan (or El Castilla), which has 365 steps – representing each day of the year.