With the help of seasoned travelers, journalists, and local experts, Traveler discovers properties that exhibit strong local color, authenticity, a sustainability ethic, and community involvement. Further research narrows the list down to our very best picks—places you can count on for a great overnight (and cultural) experience.

Here are a few details on just why these accommodations made the list.

The Madidi River -- Enroute to the Bolivian Amazon's Chalalan Lodge

EcoCamp in Torres del Paine National Park

Ecuador's Sacha Lodge makes National Geographic Travelers 2011 Stay List

EcoCamp
EcoCamp is designed to expose travelers to nature as in a camp tent but with the comfort and sophistication of a four star hotel. The structure is built to interfere as little as possible with the surrounding Torres del Paine environment, and to take full advantage of the site. EcoCamp gives sight to the park’s granite pillars right from the dining room and from many dormitory domes. Here the environment is the star. Travelers come very far to be outdoors in the park, so indoor amenities are as little as possible to encourage as much time outdoors as possible exploring the trails of Torres del Paine. The maximum capacity will be 30 guests so the feeling of intimacy, the idea of being in a Nomadic convoy in a remote environment will be kept even if the EcoCamp is full.

Sacha Lodge
Sacha has long recognized how rich and rare its surrounding environment is – and has designed a number of structures to highlight the region. This includes its kapok tower; this 135-foot tower is situated on a hill and constructed around a giant kapok tree for stability. This tower allows guests another opportunity to climb into and above the rainforest canopy. And its recent 940-foot (275-meter) long canopy walkway – at approximately 94 feet (30 meters) above the ground – is exclusive to the lodge. While at Sacha, travelers paddle dugout canoes along blackwater creeks and lakes; swim with piranha; take night walks and canoe trips in search of caiman and other nocturnal creatures. This is the Amazon – and Sacha is designed educate and immerse travelers in the jungle during the day, and relax in comfort at night.

National Geographic Traveler definitely has some nice things to say about Chalalan, Sacha, and EcoCamp (and we certainly share their sentiments) — but how about a few recommendations directly from the source. Here’s just a few things our travelers are saying about their time at these lodges.

What our travelers are saying about Chalalan:
“The Chalalan Lodge experience is just fantastic. Madidi Park is everyone’s dream of a rainforest-lush, beautiful, and filled with wildlife. Everyone at the lodge was super. Ricoberto, our guide, was knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic. The meals were delicious and the service was great. Every time I got back from a hike someone was waiting to greet me with a glass of cold lemonade. This was a fabulous tour!” – Kathy R.

What our travelers are saying about EcoCamp:
“Our EcoCamp dome was beyond our wildest dreams – wood floors, a comfy king-sized bed, floor to ceiling windows, a spacious bathroom – all the comforts of home with none of the environmental impact. After settling in, we headed back to the main dome where we were to have all our meals. Our first night, a delicious steamed salmon for dinner awaited, wine…plus good conversation with new friends. We agreed right then and there that life just doesn’t get much better.” – Jesson B.

What our travelers are saying about Sacha Lodge:
“I can’t tell you how impressed we were with the facilities. I constantly found myself thinking about how much it must take to maintain the place which essentially sits on stilts above the water and mud. Our guides, David and Poncho were excellent. Their knowledge is extensive and I am still amazed at their ability to spot wildlife in the jungle. On the evening of our arrival, Sacha hosted its once weekly barbecue at the boathouse. The food was delicious! All of the mysterious and fascinating sounds of the jungle could be heard right out of the windows of our cabin. What an experience!” – Charles A.

The Giant Tortoise - A Galapagos Superstar

With the changes already on the horizon, however, many Galapagos yachts are voluntarily moving forward with the changes and operating the new 15-day itinerary in 2011, as originally proposed. Boats that are moving forward on this 15-day itinerary are hoping to secure preferential and the most sought-after itineraries for their clients. Travelers have the option of booking the full 15-days … or, depending on the boat, any length from 4 to 15 day itineraries. The new itineraries should not visit any site more than once.

Why the Change?
The protection of the islands is the foremost concern for all parties involved. This new itinerary project is designed specifically around preservation of the islands. The islands continue to wow travelers, and along with their fame, their number of visitors has increased dramatically over the past few decades. This lengthened itinerary will spread travelers out — decreasing visitation to the most heavily visited sites and allow the opportunity for travelers to visit some of those lesser-explored regions of the islands.

The International Galapagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA) states:

The purpose of this measure was to cut visitation at 15 heavily used sites, give equal access to all boats at sites, increase the use of underused sites, enhance the visitor experience, reduce accidents, and reduce the total number of visitors by cutting out shorter itineraries.

To break it down to numbers – implementation of this measure will reduce visitors to some sites by 50%. The goal is to enhance Galapagos travel for both the islands and its visitors. In other words, change is good.

Is Your Yacht Making the Change in 2011?
These Galapagos yachts have decided to start offering the 15-day itinerary starting sometime this upcoming season. I know this is vague, but each yacht has their own agenda and initiation schedule that vague is the only option. Certainly give us a call 1-800-344-6118 if you have any questions on your yacht, your trip, or Galapagos cruises in general.

Aida Maria
Eden
Angelito
Cachalote
Guantanamera
San Jose
Millennium
Athala
Beluga
Seaman II
Queen of Galapagos

Alex with Adventure Life travelers, DeAnne and Simon Phillips, on the Cachiccata Trek in Peru

The Particulars:
Alex has worked as a guide in Peru for the last 13 years — primarily leading trekking and cultural tours in Peru to some of most sought-after destinations in the region. Born in Lima, he spent his childhood in Chiclayo and Trujillo before moving to England, where he lived for 5 years, traveling all around Europe. Alex finally settled in Cusco in 1996, after graduating with a degree in tourism. Last year, he spent 3 months living in the US, to learn more about North American culture.

The Person:
Alex says…

Guiding is my passion. I love that I have the position to make sure travelers take home the best memories of Peru and its cultural legacy. It is also a great pleasure to bring joy and happiness to travelers during their stay in Peru.

I think a good guide must have strong communication skills, high knowledge of all subjects, be very attentive to details and the desires of travelers, and have alacrity for excellent service at all times.

I am passionate about the history of all major cultures from the ancient world – and comparing these cultures with the great Inca culture. In addition, I love nature, and am a passionate birdwatcher. I’ve been blessed with a good sense of humor, play a little guitar, and enjoying giving people a smashing good time while in Peru!

Vote for Adventure Life Journeys today!

Travel + Leisure has provided an extra incentive: By participating in the World’s Best Awards Survey, you’ll be entered into their sweepstakes for a chance to win a $10,000 dream trip. Sounds good to me!

- Click here to access the survey.

- You will find Adventure Life Journeys under the category Tour Operators/Safari Outfitters.

- It’s quick and easy, and takes only a few minutes.

If you like, you can also comment on other travel-related components, such as your favorite destinations, hotels, airlines or more — I know Travel + Leisure will welcome any and all feedback you wish to share. Survey ends March 31, 2010

Thank you for feedback and your support. We are dedicated to providing exceptional travel — a fun and exciting holiday, while at the same time creating a better understanding between travelers and our wonderful hosts.

And as always, travel well!

What you’ve been saying about Adventure Life…
“Outstanding! We were exhausted and exhilarated, having given our knees and hips lots of workouts with the uneven steps everywhere. We would do it again in a minute! We are already telling our friends that Adventure Life is the way to go to Central and South America! I look forward to travels with you again. Many, many thanks for fulfilling a life-long ambition.” – E. Carducci, Machu Picchu by Train

“It is difficult to praise this programme too highly – both for content and for organization, the latter being totally seamless… We would like to express our thanks to every one of the Adventure Life team for a truly superb holiday which we shall never forget.” – The Iveys, Ancient Kingdoms

“I felt treated as an individual and not as just one of many tentative travelers. I am planning a trip to Tanzania and was very disappointed not to see anything on your web site. I would always check Adventure Life first for any future trips!” – T. Jones, Islands and Inca.

More Adventure Life testimonials.

Kassi does a little digging at her avalanche class

Kassi, all smiles in the snow

Adventure Life supplies our full-time employees with funding for continuing education opportunities. In the past, staff members have taken advantage of this perk to pursue interests as varied as our personalities. This includes Spanish classes, web development, kayaking lessons, Latin America economy courses, accounting, SCUBA … and now avalanche education.

Having the ability to determine snow stability is key to staying safe while exploring the backcountry and knowledge is power… Or in other words respect the snow! Have fun, Kassi. Smart girl.

Batting at the pinata

Letter and picture from one the children who enjoyed the holiday celebration

On November 28, 2009 Costa Rica Reps based in San Jose, Costa Rica teamed up with Adventure Life Journeys based in Missoula, Montana to host a holiday party for Costa Rican schoolchildren. Located in the Turrubares Mountains, Galan and Lanas are small isolated communities on an old travel route connecting San Jose (the capital of Costa Rica) through rural mountainous jungle terrain to Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast.

Galan school was represented by three students and Lanas school was represented by nine students. The children come from families with very limited resources and the rural location makes it especially difficult to access decent educational opportunities. For example, some children walk many miles in order to get to and from school every day.

The objective of the activity was to share a full day of fun and happiness for these children as a reward for the extra-ordinary efforts they take to be properly educated. The day began with a brief introduction about both Costa Rica Reps and Adventure life. Children were then told about tourism activities in general and specifically about eco-tourism, sometimes also referred to as sustainable tourism. Emphasis was placed on the importance of protecting and keeping the environment clean. By way of specific example students were asked to assist in cleaning up the area as the party came to an end.

Throughout the day Cristy from Costa Rica Reps led the children in team building activities and traditional games to keep them actively engaged. Prizes were given for each game. At noon lunch was served including hot dogs, snacks and sodas. It should be noted that for a rural Costa Rican child a hot dog is quite a novelty! For dessert the children enjoyed ice cream and cake. Each child also received a bag filled with an apple, a pear, juice, cookies and candies.

Staff member gave a pre-selected child a personalized gift. The look on some of these childrens’ faces was priceless! The event ended with a lively traditional Central American game where each child took turns swinging a stick at a classic piñata. One final blow and piles of candy rained down on the deliriously happy children as they scampered about collecting the treats!

The event was truly a great success for all in attendance for the following reasons: The children received a fun and wonder filled day of games, a nice meal, lots of treats and a special gift. Their parents were able to see laughter in their childrens’ faces and could clearly sense the love in the hearts of the staff at Costa Rica Reps. The staff were able to actively participate in that special gift of giving. Even the onlookers wore painted smiles for the entire day. It was a day of special warmth for the children that only a human heart can give.

This event is still fresh on the minds of the staff and has provided motivation to make this an annual tradition. Perhaps next year’s event will include nearby communities and we hope activities like this holiday gathering will provide opportunities to educate children and their parents as to the positive benefits tourism can bring to remote places.

For 2010 Costa Rica Reps hopes to incorporate a reward system throughout the days events whereby students will begin the day by planting trees and collecting litter around their homes and schools. Perhaps there could be a “trash art” contest to see who can make the most creative piece of art out of the trash collected. Now all we need is a grand prize for the winner!

A special thanks to Adventure Life Journeys for allowing Costa Rica Reps to collaborate on this inspiring initiative.

Thank you, our friends in Costa Rica. Truly our pleasure.

If you’ve traveled with one of our guides, leave them a message here!

2009 Adventure Life Guide Dinner at Inkas Grill in Cusco

Tour guides: Teddy Romero, Marco Antonio Solorzano, Milagros, Edwin Vasquez

Peru guides - Teddy Romero and Marios Salas

Peru tour guides - Marcos Palomino and Boris Bonett

Marco Antonio Solorzano and Vidal Jaquehua

Peru guide - Juan Barrios

Juan Barrios, Marco Palomino, William Davalos and Mario Salas - some of our favorite Peru travel guides

William Davalos, Teddy Romero, Mario Salas, Edwin Vsaquez, Juan Barrios