South America

Tapas, Pintxos, Canapés, Aperitivos, Oh My!

Posted by on May 2nd, 2024

Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is renowned for its rich culinary scene, offering a plethora of delectable dishes that tantalize the taste buds. Among the array of culinary wonders, it’s easy for travelers to get confused between various Spanish appetizers and finger foods like pintxos, canapés, aperitivos, and tapas. Each of these bite-sized treats… Read Full Post

Local Markets of Latin America: A Doorway to Cultural Understanding

Posted by on May 1st, 2024

Not everyone is a fan of shopping; too many people, too long lines. However, something can be said about the local markets or mercados across Latin America. They are full of life and give tourists a peek into the daily lives of locals and a cultural understanding of the country. Latin America’s artisanal and food… Read Full Post

2023 Vaya Photo Contest Winners

Posted by on February 23rd, 2024

Vaya travelers are known for being genuinely curious and respectful, for delving into the destinations they visit with open hearts and open minds. This approach is reflected in their photographs – images brimming with warm human connection, responsible wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. That’s what makes judging Vaya’s annual photo contest so much fun. After… Read Full Post

2022 Vaya Photo Contest Winners

A close-up of a large jaguar walking along a lush, green forested riverbank in the Pantanal of Brazil.

Posted by on February 27th, 2023

Nothing delights us more than receiving photos captured by our travelers throughout the year. Whether it’s up close encounters with wildlife, sunsets over remote and little visited corners of our natural world, or new friends made while traveling, your images transport us—and we look forward to seeing each and every one! To all of you… Read Full Post

Grassroots Conservation at Paz de las Aves Bird Refuge in Mindo, Ecuador

Posted by on April 14th, 2014

Though Ecuador is a relatively tiny country, slightly smaller than the state of Nevada, it is home to a tremendous amount of biodiversity and natural beauty. From Marine Iguanas lounging on the volcanic Galapagos Islands off the Pacific Coast, to Andean Condors soaring over the central “Avenue of Volcanoes,” to Spider Monkeys hanging in the… Read Full Post

Tierra Patagonia: A Premier Torres del Paine Lodge

Posted by on April 5th, 2014

On the Chilean side of Patagonia sits one of the most renowned (and arguably most beautiful) destinations in the entire region: Torres del Paine National Park. Torres del Paine is a fantastic destination and a must-see for almost any visit to Patagonia, and a stay at Tierra Patagonia Lodge is an excellent way to experience… Read Full Post

Costa Rica’s Untamed Osa Peninsula

Posted by on February 25th, 2014

Costa Rica has long been renowned for combining natural beauty with exciting activities, attracting visitors seeking pristine beaches, tropical rivers, volcanoes, and adventure. There is a well-established path that travelers often take through Costa Rica, and it’s one that exists for a reason – the Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the Monteverde Cloud… Read Full Post

10th Anniversary Highlight Photos!

Posted by on January 29th, 2014

In honor of our 10th Anniversary, we wanted to share a small collection of some our favorite photos from over the years.  Maybe they’ll give you some ideas for future trips.  Click on any photo to see a larger version.  Enjoy!

Tucker Islets – A Taste of Galapagos in Patagonia

Posted by on January 6th, 2014

One of my favorite spots in the Galapagos Islands is Punta Vicente Roca.  At the northern end of the Bolivar Channel, a calm passage between the western islands of Isabela and Fernandina, Punta Vicente Roca’s volcanic coastline is home to a plethora of unique and photogenic birds, including Galapagos Penguins, Blue-Footed Boobies, and Flightless Cormorants…. Read Full Post

Recap of IGTOA’s 2013 Galapagos Guide Training Course

Posted by on December 20th, 2013

During the week of November 18-22 I had the good fortune to attend the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association’s Five Star Guiding in Five Days course at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. The course was led by Sam Ham, who is a renowned guide training expert, and Tom O’Brien, a highly experienced and knowledgeable… Read Full Post