Eli Hardcastle
- Senior Latin America Travel Specialist
- London Office
- 12 years' Experience in Travel
My love for travel was initially sparked by trips to Asia with my family whilst growing up. Aged 18 I was then lucky enough to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos on World Challenge and never looked back, going on to study Spanish at University which only cemented my interest in the region.
Since I started working in the industry I have enjoyed some fabulous trips across Latin America including visits to Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, Costa Rica, Brazil, Uruguay and Antarctica. Chile and Argentina will always have a special place in my heart purely for the sheer variety that they offer and I don’t doubt I will continue to make repeat trips to these places for as long as I can.
-
What is the best hotel you've ever stayed at and why?
Vira Vira. They offer a stunning riverfront setting in the Chilean Lakes, a huge variety of excursions, and some of the best food I have ever tasted!
-
What's the most exciting wildlife sighting you’ve ever encountered?
Encountering a pod of orcas whilst on a Galapagos cruise. We spent time observing them hunting and swimming around us for over 30 minutes – once in a lifetime!
-
What's the best thing you've ever brought back from your travels?
A beautiful alpaca blanket from Peru in the Sacred Valley. I’ve had this for years now, and it’s still my favourite thing to snuggle underneath in the winter!
My Favourite Scott Dunn Hotels and Tours
-
![Chile Uncovered]()
VIEW TOURChile Uncovered
Hiking in Torres del Paine National Park is always special, with some of the most spectacular scenery I have ever witnessed! I particularly love this area of Chile in autumn, for its stunning colours. -
![Hacienda Zuleta]()
VIEW HOTELHacienda Zuleta
I loved learning embroidery from a skilled local lady at Hacienda Zuleta in Otavalo. A true art form and lovely to be able to get involved and give it a go myself!
