Gastronomy: Mate

Mate is a tea infusion made from the leaves of the coca plant as well as other plants. Slightly bitter in taste, it’s drunk throughout many South American countries including Chile, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. The culture of mate, which differs from region to region, is steeped in tradition. In the high Andean cultures, what used to be the Incan empire, it’s tied closely to religion and often used in ceremonies thanking the earth for its fruitfulness.

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Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Crosses the Andes and Patagonia

 
 
Knowmad Adventures in conjunction with the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is proud to announce an incredible group trip “Crossing the Andes: An Exploration of Chile and Argentina”. The trip is open to Arboretum members as well as non-members – this includes you! This 13-day trip from January 16th to the 28th, 2012 will highlight the incredible landscapes of Chile and Argentina as well as the varied cultures throughout these regions while going from Santiago, Chile south to the Patagonia and across the Andes by way of fjords and glaciers into Argentina.

Knowmad News: Exploring Machu Picchu

Dear Traveler,

Knowmad Adventures proudly provides active, authentic and sustainable travel experiences for independent-minded adventurers and small groups to Chile and Argentina. However there is still more adventure to be had and in order to grow, we’ve got to go.

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Parting Shots: South America

 
These fantastic nature shots by Knowmad travelers Wendy and Jay are in the running for the 2011 Knowmad Photo Contest. If you’ve traveled with us send in a few of your favorites from South America and you will be eligible to win!

Trek Check: Peru Treks Comparison – Inca Trail, Salkantay + Choquequirao

Most Popular Peru Treks - South America

An incredible country with gorgeous, sweeping landscapes, Peru has long been revered as a destination for hikers and adventure-lovers from across the globe. All Peru treks can vary in difficulty, climate, scenery, and sights, so it’s important to find the perfect trek for your travel style and interests. Three of the most popular Peru treks are the Inca Trail, Salkantay, and Choquequirao. Each attracts experienced hikers for a different reason, and whether it’s the archaeological sites, the incredible surroundings while on the journey, or the thrill of a new challenge, they all offer an unforgettable and unique experience.

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3 Phenomenal Things to do in Ecuador: Hidden Gems + New Experiences I Discovered on My Recent Trip

Things to do in Ecuador

Part of my job as a Knowmad Adventures Peru + Ecuador Trip Specialist is to scout out new and exciting experiences for our travelers. I stay at the new hotel everyone’s talking about, dine at that hot, up-and-coming restaurant, and experience the latest adventure that’s getting all the press. But I also search for the unknown: the tucked away restaurant only the locals know about; the small, five-room property that’s so welcoming you feel like you’ve found your long-lost family; the handicraft workshop where you will learn about culture and tradition from a local; and all of those hidden gems that turn a good trip into a great trip, one that’s completely authentic and unique.

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Parting Shots: Possibilities of Patagonia – Four Friends’ Custom Chile Trip through Northern & Southern Patagonia!

Knowmad Adventures Travel South America

Travel alongside Nancy, Jeff, Mary, and Kevin as they embark on an unforgettable custom Chile trip to Patagonia and Valparaíso. They explore both Southern and Northern Patagonia, venturing to Torres del Paine and Puerto Varas to discover the breathtaking sights and possibilities of the region.

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