The Llama Travel Blog

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.

Exploring Peru felt like stepping into a world where history, culture, and nature blend in amazing ways. From the busy streets of Lima to the quiet Sacred Valley, everything felt  unique. I was constantly amazed by the diversity and richness of the country. Whether wandering through ancient ruins, tasting local cuisine, or enjoying the scenery, visiting Peru was an amazing experience.

From the south to the north, Vietnam has something to offer for everybody. Ancient temples, bustling cities, mouthwatering food, fascinating history and serene landscapes are a few of the highlights of this Southeast Asian gem.

Here are the top 7 things to do during your holiday in Vietnam.

Choosing the right book that can be the difference between a great holiday and a truly memorable one. A good travel book provides context for the things you see, and knits your experience into a wider story about the country. And it’s a reciprocal relationship. A book is so much better when you have a reference point for what author is describing – such as the comforting smell of palo santo wood, or the turquoise glow of Pacific reefs.

When researching books for my recent trip to the Galapagos, I had two criteria. Firstly, I wanted something that made me feel like an explorer: the best travel books haven’t just taught me things; they’ve given me tools to discover new things for myself. Secondly, they had to be short, or easy to read. I’m not a fast reader and I pack light, so I didn’t want any thousand-page tomes. 

Of the titles I settled on; one is fiction, one historical and one scientific, giving three very different view of the country. Ecuador is a diverse and wonderful place, with plenty of history, culture and personal stories to discover. These books helped me to dive into that world; I hope they do the same for you.