Real Life Travel Experiences

How We Are Different

Let us guide you out of the travel book and into the country.
At Buen Viaje Tours we're about the spirit of the journey. We take time to create connections with the country, know its people, continue to seek understanding, and never stop exploring.

Our tour pricing.
When comparing tour prices, please be sure you are comparing apples to apples. Our tour prices typically include everything – transport, accommodations, meals, activities, full-time guide – from the time you step off the plane until the time you head back home (unless otherwise noted). We have found that our tour participants greatly enjoy this freedom from having to carry a wallet while they travel, allowing them to focus entirely on the journey. Also, you will not find gaping holes in our itineraries where we send you off on your own every afternoon.

We know you are paying good money for an exceptional experience and that's what we strive to provide.

Socially Responsible Travel
Traveling with Buen Viaje Tours means traveling responsibly and respectfully. In addition to being mindful of a country's rhythm and our travelers' desires, we promote community-based, locally-run organizations working towards a better future for all its people. This commitment allows us to develop long-term relationships and engage our travelers on a much more personal level.
Download our Responsible Travel Policy (PDF)

Treading Lightly in the Developing World
At Buen Viaje Tours we don't just think about what we can bring back from our travels, but also what we can contribute. We want to become part of the fabric of everyday life wherever we may find ourselves, so we live by simple but important rules:
  • We take time to learn about local history and culture;
  • We spend money on locally produced goods and services;
  • We use water and electricity sparingly;
  • We don’t give handouts of any kind to children. Instead, we give to recognized, local, socially-conscious organizations;
  • We protect natural resources, and we never buy souvenirs or goods made from wildlife unless they are clearly sustainably produced;
  • We always ask permission before taking photos/videos of people.

Travel Specialists

Affordable travel with expert guides.
You’ll be in the hands of experienced, bi-lingual guides who will explain the who, what and why of everything you see and do. We offer you the unique perspective of those who understand both the developing and developed world. And if we don’t have the answers, we surely know someone who does.

A Woman-owned Business

Owner/Tour Director, Jessica Schugel has been traveling since childhood. In 2002, Peace Corps introduced her to Nicaragua, Central America, where she put down roots in what she now calls her second home. Jessica has covered a lot of ground over the years, taking the time to learn and explore before putting together the unique travel itineraries that she feels offer Buen Viaje Tours' clients that extra something special that can’t be found by following the masses. Buen Viaje Tours will give you a genuine glimpse into life as it is lived by others.

Please note: Many of the places we visit are considered inexpensive countries in which to travel, however, that does not mean they're cheap. We place great value on our in-country partners. It is possible to be a vegetarian while traveling but you will miss out on some unique local fare. Additionally, if your expectations include consistent hot water, air conditioning, and wireless Internet wherever you happen to be, ask yourself why you want to leave home. Tours are geared towards people who value a genuine travel experience.

The Minnesota Connection

Hello Minnesotans! Your guide, Jessica Schugel, is a native of Minnesota. If you live in or around the Twin Cities and take one of our tours you will have the opportunity to get together prior to traveling to talk about your upcoming adventure. This is a great time to get to know the fellow travelers in your group, learn new packing tips and share travel stories before we hit the road.