The Llama Travel Blog

At Llama Travel, our holidays are made so great by the knowledge of our travel experts. This week, we caught up with Otto, one of our senior Travel Consultants, to get the inside scoop on his first visit to Kenya. And now we are going to share it all with you. 

Peru is far more than just Machu Picchu – it’s a country full of incredible diversity and hidden treasures. From vibrant coastal towns to vast desert landscapes, and remote mountain villages, Peru offers an endless array of experiences. While the iconic Machu Picchu is a must-see, there’s so much more to uncover. Exploring Peru is a journey through history, culture, and stunning natural beauty, from the bustling streets of Lima to the serene Sacred Valley. Every moment in Peru is unforgettable, and here are twenty places you should visit and activities you should try when travelling in Peru according to Llama Travel, a Peru holidays specialist sending people to Peru since 2002.

The Cusco region is home to many, many Inca sites, most of which get few, if any, visitors. Huchuy Qosqo, means ‘Little Cusco’ in Quechua and is an impressive complex, with some fine stone structures, beautiful terracing and some of the most amazing views of anywhere in the area. Said to be a royal estate founded by the Inca Viracocha in the early 15th century, the site sits at over 3,650 metres, with the town of Lamay in the Sacred Valley almost 800 metres directly below, and facing the snow-capped peaks of the mountains on the other side of the valley. Despite being such an important and beautiful site, it receives hardly any visitors, mainly by dint of being only accessible by a fairly tough hike.

I was floored by the Amazon before I’d even got on the boat. Fluttering around the dock was an enormous cloud of butterflies of every shape and colour. They were everywhere. I’d never experienced so many of them in one place. The mineral-rich mud of the river attracts them in flocks, and I was to discover that it is entirely normal to come across fairytale scenes such as this one when walking through the jungle. The guides were completely unfazed. Only when one of them called me over to the boat did I realise how long I’d been staring.

Our first-ever photo competition has come to an end, and what a journey it has been! We were absolutely blown away by the sheer number and quality of submissions. 

We've had the pleasure of seeing the world through your lenses. From the vibrant wildlife in Costa Rica to the sunrise over Namibia's dunes, or a family picture in Machu Picchu, the diversity of images and destinations made this photo competition so remarkable.

But now, the moment we've all been eagerly awaiting is here (*drum roll*)—the winners have been decided!

Every country has its unique charm, but few feel more singular than Japan's blend of tradition and modernity. For over 200 years, Japan isolated itself from international trade, allowing it to develop a truly exceptional culture. With ancient temples, vibrant cityscapes, serene gardens, and great amusement parks, there’s a fascinating blend of the old and new. So, what are the top 10 things to do in Japan that you absolutely can’t miss?

Otto recently travelled to Sri Lanka, so we’ve asked him some questions about his trip.

I was blown away by the sheer beauty of Namibia, and it has become one of my favourite to visit. This is one of the world’s least densely populated countries, with some of Africa’s most abundant wildlife. It is one of Africa’s youngest nations, with the world’s oldest rock art.

On our Namibia holidays you travel by road and rough tracks to experience the wilderness and incredible landscapes and to have the opportunity for the best wildlife-watching. It’s a true once-in-a-lifetime holiday destination – and these are my highlights:

Vietnam has become a must-see destination, offering incredible scenery, history, and a unique culture, and is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the ancient imperial city of Hue, to the stunning limestone islets of Lan Ha Bay, these sites offer a glimpse into the country's past and natural beauty. The country captivates travellers with its charm and authenticity. If you’re unsure whether Vietnam would be a great holiday spot for you, here are 10 reasons why you should consider visiting Vietnam for your next trip.

We are still accepting entries for our first-ever photo competition. This is open to everyone: even if you've never travelled with us!

Over the years, you've sent us fantastic shots of your travels. Now, we want to formally recognize your talents. Whether it's a unique wildlife shot in Costa Rica, a sunrise over the dunes in Namibia, or a picture with an incredible story, we want to see how you see the world. 

The winner will receive a John Lewis Gift Card worth £100, a £250 voucher for a Llama Travel holiday, and the title of Llama Travel Photographer of the Year. Two runners-up will each receive a £100 Llama Travel voucher.