Julie Norton
Whether I am at home or traveling, nature is always my number one need. This is why Latin America is so important to me. As one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, you can see desert, mountains, beaches, jungle and even glaciers! While spending a year and a half in Central and South America I got to experience nature and mankind at its greatest.
Some of my highlights were Chile, Guatemala and Costa Rica:
- Chile - Seeing the Moai statues on Easter Island, Chile, was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. It reminded me that human beings are truly incredible and that it is possible for us to work with our environment in a beautiful way.
- Guatemala - The hardest yet most rewarding hike I have ever done was Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala. After submitting this massive landmass, I was rewarded by watching a nearby volcano erupt. Nothing can compare to bright orange lava jetting into the air, contrasted against a black night sky.
- Costa Rica - I felt the most at peace whenever I was in Costa Rica. This is where I learned to embrace the phrase “Pura Vida” meaning pure life. This lifestyle encouraged me to slow down and appreciate the moments I was in. And slowing down also allowed me to see things like a Glass Frog in the wild, which was as small as my thumb nail!
Favourite places I've been
My top tips
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When preparing for a multi-day hike, especially with high elevation like the Inca Trail, start hydrating a week in advance. Try to drink 2-3 liters a day before and during the hike.
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Keep a bathing suit and raincoat with you at all times while in Costa Rica. Enjoying the lush greenery of the jungle does mean you will be met with occasional rain.
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You can find Whale Sharks in different regions of Mexico. These beautiful creatures swim around Baja California in the fall/winter (Oct-Feb) and move to the Yucatan Peninsula for the summer (June-August)