Simon Hunt
My first taste of Latin America came when I was 19 years old on a 3 month trip, during which I spent time in Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil and Argentina. Since that incredible adventure, I have leapt at every opportunity to return to this spectacular continent and have been lucky to revisit these countries in greater depth, as well as adding Chile, Colombia and the Galapagos to my list.
As a biology graduate, what excites me most is rich biodiversity and nature. My most memorable experiences are the once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters, of which Latin America offers up some of the best in the world. Top of the list for me are snorkelling with playful sealions in the Galapagos Islands and tracking elusive jaguars in Brazil’s Pantanal. Not only is it the chance to see these magnificent creatures with own eyes that keeps pulling me back to Latin America, but also the opportunity to learn first-hand about the inspirational efforts of local organisations, who are working tirelessly to protect them.
Favourite places I've been
What my guests have said
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"Simon was phenomenal, he was incredibly helpful and enthusiastic. He gave us outstanding advice and his recommendations made our holiday a truly memorable one."
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"I cannot thank Simon enough, from day 1 he made the experience nothing but a pleasure and allowed us to be nothing but excited about our holiday."
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"Simon was friendly, always available and very knowledgeable. He created an amazing, bespoke, once-in-a-lifetime experience for us."
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"In all honesty there isn’t a single part of this experience that wouldn’t encourage me to recommend Scott Dunn but the strongest reason would be Simon. I really cannot overstate how much of a pleasure he has made this whole experience, we often deferred to his expertise and all his recommendations were outstanding."
My hot picks
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View propertyCaiman Ecological Refuge, Pantanal, Brazil
This lodge in the Southern Pantanal is a leader in wildlife conservation and ecotourism and home to some of the best wildlife if Latin America. -
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View propertyHacienda Zuleta, Otavalo, Central Highlands, Ecuador
This traditional yet luxurious working farmhouse is surrounded by stunning Ecuadorian countryside and offers up incredible activities, including the best horse riding in the country.
My top tips
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Trekking the Inca Trail is one of the highlights of Peru and Latin America as a whole – there are a finite number of permits and these fly off the shelves, so it is always best to book these early to avoid disappointment.
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Iguazu Falls is simply breath-taking. For the most wonderful experience and epic photographs, stay at Hotel Das Cataratas, inside the National Park, as you’ll have the falls to yourselves before all the visitors arrive.