Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) Adventure Champions are the vanguards of the adventure travel industry, having been members of ATTA and leaders in the community for a minimum of 15 years. They are true believers in the power of adventure travel and have made an impact on the direction of ATTA and on the industry as a whole. To honor their commitment to their ethos and lasting contribution to the adventure travel industry, we are spotlighting Adventure Champions through a series of interviews.
Latin Trails
DMC | Inbound Tour Operator
Headquarters: Ecuador
ATTA Member Since 2009
Introducing Marcel Perkins, Managing Director of Latin Trails:
Latin Trails is a luxury DMC specialized in tailor-made tour operations with a focus on life enriching experiences, regenerative, and transformational travel. We operate on our own yachts in the Galapagos as well as through hotel based programs, including the ILLA Experience Hotel in Quito and an Amazon nature preserve in Ecuador. Latin Trails works on a B2B basis, offering white label services and a 24/7 concierge department that looks after every client's trip. Our headquarters are in Ecuador and Peru, with operations offices and team members on the ground in Quito, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Galapagos and in Colombia, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina.
Why have you stayed an ATTA member for 15+ years?
It is a live community that is constantly advocating for the success of its members both on the supplier and tour operator and agent sides. ATTA creates win-win opportunities for all members regardless of geographical location.
How has your company changed over the last 15 years?
South America has evolved in being stronghold for responsible travel in terms of unique experiences, unveiling unique natural areas, live cultures offering travelers variety, uniqueness and friendly people to interact with during their visits. Many luxury properties have opened and world class service has become the forefront of the region's success. Within each destination: Ecuador is at the front of luxury experiences and authentic travel, Colombia rich cultural experiences, Peru has new luxury hotels and properties constantly opening, Chile offers vast nature and luxury adventure, Argentina is a collection of cosmopolitan lifestyle with a variety of natural locations, Bolivia remains authentic yet always adding new experiences and unique offerings.
What is the greatest force that drives you to work everyday?
Being able to provide job opportunities to all families involved in our front and backlines.
What gives you hope about the next generation of adventure travel leaders?
Their creativity and passion for providing service.
What is your advice for young adventure travel companies?
Remain resilient and focus on your niche, whatever that may be.
What gets you excited about the future of adventure travel?
New experiences, new adventures, and cleaner operations.
