Black and white illustration of Carlos Machado's headshot

Carlos Machado

Latin America Concierge

My experience in the tourism industry began when I worked as a guide for one of the top travel agencies in Venezuela. I was fortunate to gain in–depth knowledge of all of my home country’s best tourist sites and fascinating spots of cultural interest, and this was where my passion for travel and serving people started.

Working across various areas in the tourism industry, I fed this passion and gathered all the experience I could about destinations in Latin America. Today, I use everything I have learnt to better guide and support you on your discovery of these beautiful cultures.

Starting from the shores of the Caribbean sea in Venezuela, I’ve experienced places as far as Cartagena de Indias and Bogotá in Colombia, Rio de Janeiro and Buzios in Brazil, Osa Peninsula, Golfito and Guanacaste Coast in Costa Rica, and Ushuaia in Argentina. From my current home in Santiago, Chile, I’ve trekked through Patagonia in the south, and Atacama in the north. And, of course, I’m always looking forward to adding more flags to my personal map, and even travel–inspired tattoos to my body.

Latin America

My most memorable trip

Atacama Desert

My first solo trip, to the Atacama desert in 2019, is something I’ll always remember with a sense of pride and love. It was the week of my birthday, and I was in pursuit of personal growth and spiritual experiences. The atmosphere of the desert, created by its ancient landscapes and incomprehensible vastness, allowed me to disconnect from the world and reconnect with myself. All of my experiences there made it a truly memorable trip.

On my bucket list

Peru & Brazil

There are so many places on my bucket list! In particular, I’d love to visit Peru to see both Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines, and it would be a dream to see Lençóis Maranhenses in Brazil. The landscape looks so surreal and beautiful.

See where I’ve travelled

My favourite hotel

Playa Cativo

My favourite hotel is Playa Cativo in Costa Rica. Set within 1,000 acres of private rainforest, it’s a pristine paradise with all the luxury commodities you could wish for. The arrival by boat to a welcome from wild dolphins is incredibly special, as is sunset paddle boarding.

The Best Destination for Families

Costa Rica

Costa Rica without a doubt is one of the world’s best destinations for families. The combination of biodiversity and exciting family–friendly activities, such as ziplining through the tree canopy, makes it a great fit for families of all ages and interests.

My top tips

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To combat the changing weather, bring lots of layers for your Patagonia Trip.

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At altitude, keep an easy pace, drink lots of water and gradually work your way up.

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In Costa Rica starting early pays off, as the fauna is more active during the early morning hours.

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You don’t have to pack a lot of clothes – most of the properties have laundry services, so keep your luggage weight low (and leave space for shopping!).

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