With the launch of electronic visas to Brazil, interest in travel to the country has soared, and Avanti Destinations is ready.
Since the launch of the e-visa program, Avanti Destinations is reporting double the number of bookings to Brazil this year versus the same time last year.
In response to the rapid growth, the tour operator is introducing new accommodations and tours in Brazil, as well as in one of its perennially best-selling destinations, Ecuador's Galapagos Islands.
"As soon as the news about the e-visa came out, we saw a spike in bookings to Brazil, and it has continued," said Harry Dalgaard, Avanti's president and CEO. "Our most popular Brazilian destinations have always been Rio and Iguassu Falls, but there are a growing number of bookings for Sao Paulo, the Amazon and especially the smaller beach towns like Buzios and Paraty, which is a lovely, preserved colonial gem."
Iguassu Falls
The timing for the e-visa couldn't be better for travelers who want to visit Iguassu Falls this year and stay overnight in the national park. Right at the moment, the only option is to visit the Brazil side, Dalgaard pointed out.
The Melia Iguassu, formerly a Sheraton, is located on the Argentine side of the falls, but is undergoing renovations until November and is currently closed. Therefore, the Belmond Das Cataratas on the Brazil side is the only hotel option open within the national park.
The IGR airport, which serves the Argentine side of the falls, is also closed for construction this spring, and flights have been routed to the Brazilian airport, IGU.
Paraty, Brazil
Avanti added new accommodation options in Paraty. Travelers can now stay at the four-star, nine-room pousada, the Casa Turquesa. The property is located in the quietest part of the historic town center.
Avanti offers three other pousadas in the city as well as private transfers and three tours.
The tour operator is adding a fourth tour in the area later this month, giving guests the opportunity to take a schooner boat cruise with lunch. Clients visit islands in the stunning bay and can go swimming or snorkeling.
Galapagos Islands
Avanti saw double-digit growth in bookings to Ecuador last year, specifically in the Galapagos Islands. In response, it has added four new ships for Galapagos cruises, bringing its total offerings to 15. Two of the four new ships are elegant deluxe vessels.
Avanti also added a land-based island-hopping itinerary that includes accommodations at select, conveniently located hotels.
This itinerary can be custom-designed and booked for between three and seven nights. It includes all air, boat and ground transfers as well as guided eco-tours, all meals, and the national park fee. The trip starts at $2,995 per person, based on double occupancy, for four days and three nights.
To assist with planning, Avanti's brochure, the Essence of Central & South America 2018-2019, includes a map of where to find the Galapagos Islands' "Big 15" species-from sea lions to giant turtles.
Avanti also offers expert guidance to travel agents who can book online at AvantiDestinations.com or call 800-422-5053.
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