Kerry Cook

My first experience of Latin America was on a study abroad programme whilst at university. I visited Costa Rica and Nicaragua to learn about International Development, staying with a lovely local family in Nicoya, working at a turtle conservation site, and attending a Spanish language school. This was my first experience of anything other than a package holiday, and where (as everyone says) … I got bitten by the travel bug.

Some years later I took a 3 month break from work and went back to Central America to revisit these countries in a little more depth, but also headed to Guatemala, Belize and Panama. I had a very loose itinerary and took my time, travelling on local buses and staying in hostels. After this trip I began working in the travel industry, first for an independent travel agent and then later for adventure tour companies.

I’ve been so fortunate having explored other incredible parts of the world since, but it’s Latin America I’m drawn to and always want to revisit. I’ve since been to Mexico, Brazil, Peru and Argentina… though in a much more organised fashion to make the most of my time!

Mainland Ecuador is where I’m keen to head to next – there’s so much culture, history, landscapes and biodiversity to see over a small area.

It’s hard to pinpoint specific highlights or to have ‘favourite’ places. However, exploring the huge Mayan ruins of Tikal at sunrise surrounded by coatis, releasing Leatherback turtle hatchlings into the sea on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, skydiving in Mexico over Playa del Carmen and walking in the Andes on Peru’s Lares Trek are some of my most memorable! I can’t wait to help you plan your adventure to Latin America!