I started my trip in Peru, flying into Lima to start a 12 day G Adventures tour: Amazon to the Andes. The highlights of this tour include four days hiking the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu, followed by a stay in a lodge in the Amazon Rainforest. Once you cast your eyes over Machu Picchu at the end of the four day trek, it makes it all very rewarding and worthwhile!

This tour takes you from the mountainous landscape of the Andes to the lush greenery of the Amazon, an incredible change of scenery. Once settled in our lodge, we went on a boat tour spotting capybaras, caiman and anacondas.

The last ten days in Peru were spent independently travelling along the coast, stopping in Paracas for some downtime by the sea, followed by Huacachina – a small village oasis surrounded by sand dunes – perfect for dune buggying, sandboarding or watching the sunset from the top of the dunes. My final stop was Arequipa, taking on another two day hike of Colca Canyon.

My next stop was Ecuador, where I embarked on a ten day expedition around the central and southern islands of the Galápagos with Intrepid’s Classic Galapagos: Southern Islands. This tour was a fantastic combination of land and water-based activities. Feeling safe in the qualified hands of our amazing guide, Roberto, we ventured over unique terrains on each of the islands. From the bright red sand on Isla Rabida to the black lava fields filled with Sally Lightfoot crabs on Isla Mosquera, every day we were wowed with the sights of new wildlife.

Roberto was very knowledgeable, using his 20+ years’ experience taking us to the perfect spots to view wildlife endemic to each island. The snorkelling was also incredible - sea lions, beautiful multicoloured fish and white tip reef sharks all within sight.

After making it back on dry land our next stop was Buenos Aires, Argentina – one of the best cities I have ever visited. It is packed with amazing cafes and restaurants, quirky stores, and iconic districts. We spent a few days exploring areas such as colourful La Boca, where you can catch a tango dance on the side of the street or watch a football match at the world famous La Bombonera Stadium. In the evenings we headed to the district of Palermo, home to a plethora of traditional Argentinian steakhouses. 

Next up we joined G Adventures’ 14 day End of the Earth tour. Two highlights for me were seeing huge chunks of ice fall from Perito Moreno Glacier, and visiting the southernmost city of the world, Ushuaia, to spot penguins on a boat cruise of the Beagle Channel.

Brazil greeted me with Iguassu Falls, a magnificent collection of waterfalls that straddle the Argentinian and Brazilian border. I was fortunate enough to visit during wet season, feeling the full force of the water up close, getting drenched on board a boat ride that took us close to the falls. For people wanting to just admire the majestic sight, there is a maze of boardwalks you can traverse to see the falls from different viewpoints. A splendid option to stay longer if the budget allows, is Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, a luxurious property that boasts an unrivalled position next to Iguassu Falls. 

After arriving in Rio de Janeiro, I ticked off another wonder of the world: opting to hike up to Christ the Redeemer, sharing panoramic views of the city below with fellow tourists. A highlight here was watching a football game at Maracanã stadium – something not to be missed!

The exploration of my sixth and final country, Colombia, started with the colourful cobbled streets of the Old Town in Cartagena. A must visit in Colombia is Tayrona National Park, which is about an hour’s drive from the coastal town of Santa Marta. It is recommended to spend two nights near the national park to make the most of the sightseeing there.

For a change of scenery, we then headed inland to Minca, a small hidden mountain town with jungle treehouses, waterfalls and quaint cafes. Our final stop was Medellin, a highlight on any Colombia itinerary. Head to Comuna 13, previously considered one of the most dangerous districts and where it appears the houses are built on top of each other. Now street performers and local merchants line the streets, and you can marvel at the street art while enjoying some local food from one of the vendors. 

A good tour to explore some of these sights is Intrepid’s Classic Colombia. To celebrate the end of an amazing holiday we spent our final evening at El Poblado, the famous nightlife area packed with dazzling restaurants and bars.

My top 5 highlights:

1. Reaching Machu Picchu after trekking the Inca Trail

2. Swimming with sea lions in the Galápagos Islands.

3. Visiting Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

4. Iguassu Falls

5. The colourful architecture in Colombia

Whilst I was reluctant to swap my flip flops and backpack for Monday morning alarms and busy commutes, I must admit a part of me was glad to get back to my own bed and the routine of work. Being able to get straight back to a job I enjoy means I can start planning (and saving) for my next holiday!