Bolivia Country Information

Bolivia isn´t called the Tibet of the Americas for nothing: It´s the western hemisphere´s highest, most isolated, and most rugged nation. It is also South America´s most traditional realm: the majority of the population claim pure Amerindian blood. The geography of this landlocked, Andean country runs  the gamut from jagged peaks and hallucinogenic salt flats to steamy jungles nd wildlife rich pampas. Bolivia is often left off the travellers itinerary, but we believe you miss out if you do not visit this amazing off the beaten track country.

Ecuador: the best things come in small packages.

Being the second smallest country in South America, you would think that there wouldn’t be much for you to see and do in Ecuador; however this is not the case! It is the natural diversity in the country that will make your gap year fun and exciting! There are so many things that you can see and do in just one day in Ecuador. Journeying from the Amazon Basin to the Andean Volcanoes to Otavalo, there is going to be plenty for you to experience on your gap year. Your friends and family will not have concerns about you being in such a large place on your own, and if you are travelling around the world, Ecuador is going to be the perfect place to add to your list.

The Amazon jungles are there for you to explore and see wildlife. You can easily just watch David Attenborough on the TV is you wanted to, but how exciting would it be to be there yourself? Seeing the animals there right in front of you whilst you take in your surroundings, there will be nothing like this that you will be able to experience anywhere else. So now if your chance to grab the opportunity.

Whether you are a passionate nature lover or want to experience something extraordinary, Ecuador is not going to disappoint. With exotic birds, insects, paramo and plats, it is a dream location to visit. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more active gap year there are more choices for you to do. Mountaineering, trekking, horseback riding and surfing all ensure that you’re not going to get bored! It may be surprising to learn this when you think of Ecuador being so small, but you must remember that the best things come in small packages!

If you are more interested in the cultural side of things the country’s heritage is going to be perfect for you. Traditional costumes and markets are going to enable you to experience the history of the country and what life is like for the people that live there. It will make a chance from your usual trip to Tesco and outfits of shirts and jeans, that’s for sure!

Architecture is also very popular in Ecuador/ Cuenca and Quito are the places for you to see some of the most amazing buildings and features that Ecuador has to offer. There is nothing that is going to disappoint and you will be able to have the experience of a lifetime that will be like nothing else.

Banos is also going to provide you with the experience of the Ecuador nightlife. You are not going to have to stop going out simply because you are in another country! Your gap year is for you to enjoy, and Ecuador is the place for you to go. Explore the whole country and make the most out of your opportunity, as you may not have another chance to! Ensure that you can have the best year possible when you choose Ecuador as the destination for your gap year.

Country Information

Perfection in Peru

Peru is one of the most fascinating places on the planet, with a diverse landscape, every-changing weather conditions, and a history which spans thousands of years. Of course, the infamous Inca trail to Machu Picchu is an essential experience if you’re planning on spending your gap-year in Peru, but there are plenty of other magnificent sights to see, places to visit, and things to do.

When you arrive in Peru, you must remember that the highest numbers of tourists are present there during June through August, so it’s a good idea to avoid legendary sites such as the Machu Picchu trail during this period. However, whenever you decide to undertake the challenging hike to this historic Inca site, prepare to be dazzled when you reach the end by the beauty and mystery surrounding an area which lay undiscovered until the early 19^th century. Due to concerns over the trail’s endurance under the pressures from tourists, only 2,500 people are permitted to use the trail per day, so you should to book with a tour guide in advance. The numerous temples which sit atop Machu Picchu are fascinating to atheists and the religious alike due to their history, beauty, and spirituality. It is claimed by many that witnessing the sun rise over Machu Picchu is one of the most breath-taking sights on this planet… and seeing it whilst on your gap-year is certainly something to boast about!

Not only does Peru contain majestic man-made features, but it also lays claim to one of the most naturally diverse areas on the Earth – the Amazon Rainforest. If you feel brave enough to challenge the spontaneous daily downpours, then the Rainforest will reward you with views of rare spectacles, such as jaguars, sloths, and nearly 40,000 other species of animals. Unfortunately, the current deforestation taking place in the Amazon Rainforest means that this natural wonder may not  be around for much longer, so imagine being able to look back on your gap year 50 years from now, and recalling how you witnessed a truly iconic feature of the natural world.

As well as the Amazon Rainforest, Peru also contains the world-renowned Andes mountain range. The snow-capped mountain peaks and towering volcanoes make for a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience, where you can encounter cougars, chinchillas, llamas, and over 3,500 other enchanting species of animal and 30,000 types of plant. The combination of the Amazonian and Andean wildlife means that , in Peru, you have the opportunity to see two-thirds of this planets animals and plants, and who would pass up the opportunity like that?

Peru is the perfect place to spend a gap year for all types of people, whether you’re interested in biology, history, culture, or geography. The demanding treks, high altitudes and changeable weather can be difficult, but as all visitors to Peru will agree, it’s worth it in the end. All you need to provide is your energy, and while you’re young, what’s the point in waiting around? Peru will provide the rest!