Abercrombie & Kent has expanded its DMC (destination management companies) presence in South America, this week confirming the acquisition of La Paz-based Crillon Tours in Bolivia.
The move into Bolivia was foreshadowed exclusively by LATTE, with Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group’s CEO, Cristina Levis telling us while Melbourne in April: “Bolivia is one of the countries in South America where we will be expanding.”
Founded in 1958, Crillon Tours offers bespoke luxury experiences on Lake Titicaca and the Uyuni Salt Flats, as well as DMC operations and unique properties.
A&K has operated across South America for decades, with established offices throughout the region including Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Brazil and Argentina. The Crillon Tours acquisition adds unique properties on Lake Titicaca and a fleet of Airstream caravans operating in the Uyuni Salt Flats to A&K’s expanding South American portfolio.
“Bolivia represents one of South America’s most extraordinary frontiers, with landscapes and experiences that are truly irreplaceable,” Levis said this week. “This acquisition reflects our commitment to expanding access to the world’s most remarkable destinations whilst maintaining the authentic connections and local expertise that define exceptional travel.”
Darius Morgan, Vice President of Crillon Tours, said: “We have been operating Bolivia’s most exceptional destinations for over 67 years, building deep relationships with local communities and creating unparalleled access to the country’s natural wonders.
“Joining AKTG allows us to showcase our extraordinary landscapes to discerning travelers worldwide, whilst maintaining the local expertise and cultural connections that make our experiences truly unique.”
Crillon Tours’ team will continue to serve all global partners “as usual”.
In the coming months, A&K will develop and add its own dedicated DMC team in Bolivia, as well as innovative products and experiences – such as luxury camping in the Uyuni Salt Flats, which will complement and elevate Crillon Tours’ existing portfolio.
The acquisition of Crillon Tours brings A&K’s global network to more than 3,000 staff, in over 70 offices and 83 countries.
Abercrombie & Kent recently established a DMC in Mexico, has acquired Borealis DMC in the Nordics and is investing significantly in its A&K Sanctuary collection of luxury camps, lodges and riverboats – the latest being the Pure Amazon river boat which debuted a few weeks ago.
