Interview with Laurent: 4x4 travel specialist in South America

This article is an interview/portrait.

Planning a roadtrip bolivie, crossing the Peruvian Altiplano or chasing the silence of Chile’s Atacama is not just about picking a route on a map. It’s about timing, altitude, vehicle choice, and the kind of local knowledge you only get after years on the ground. Laurent has been building tailor-made 4x4 journeys in Peru, Bolivia and Chile since the early 2000s—designing trips where comfort and authenticity can coexist, and where freedom never means improvisation. Here, he shares his story, his vehicles, and the rides that still give him that “first expedition” feeling.

“I knew my life would be abroad”: Laurent’s story

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

I’m Laurent, French. Since childhood I’ve been on the move and living abroad because of my father’s job. After finishing my studies in France, it was obvious to me that my life would be built overseas.

The trigger came when I met someone from Peru. I came as a scout, and South America fascinated me instantly. The adventure really began in 1999, when I learned the trade in tourism—an obvious calling for me. In 2007 I created my incoming travel agency with one clear rule: absolute respect and absolute satisfaction for every traveler.

Which countries do you offer?

Peru, Chile and Bolivia.

Why did you choose to settle there?

I met a Peruvian who made me want to discover his country and, beyond that, South America.

I fell for an authentic Peru. The sense of being far away was real—it reminded me of times I lived in Africa and the Pacific. I felt I belonged there.

What makes Laurent’s approach different

Does your agency have a specific edge compared to others?

We truly build tailor-made journeys. There’s no copy-paste: we take every important element into account before crafting the trip.

We’re the only agency here specialized in high-end and luxury travel. It’s not just booking 5-star hotels—it’s a whole chain of details, and it requires deep knowledge of services and high expectations.

How did you come to offer motorized trips?

We aim to propose trips that feel different. Self-drive 4x4 travel fits my vision: freedom, escape, a clean break. Being behind the wheel—“alone”—naturally leads to a more authentic experience and closer contact with communities.

The machines: why these 4x4s

What vehicles do travelers drive with you and Planet Ride?

Toyota FJ Cruiser, Hilux or Prado.

Why those models?

They are reliable and comfortable—two vital points for a trip to run smoothly, especially when you’re days away from major towns, driving mixed terrain (asphalt, gravel, highland tracks) and dealing with altitude.

Planet Ride pro tip: on high-altitude days (the Altiplano can push beyond 4,000 m), we pace the stage to avoid fatigue stacking up—fewer kilometers, more time buffers, and a real plan for fuel and water. The best roadtrips are the ones you finish sharp, not drained.

Peru, Bolivia, Chile: what makes this region unmissable

What makes a 4x4 trip here so special?

These destinations are unique: they combine culture, huge open spaces, a real sense of distance, and breathtaking landscapes. Every region is different—the coast, the Andes, the Amazon. So many microclimates that travelers feel like they’re doing three or four trips in one.

In your eyes, what’s the real difference between a “regular” trip and a 4x4 journey?

Freedom, first of all. Being alone at 4,500 m on the Altiplano creates a unique feeling. This way of traveling takes you off the beaten path and into unforgettable moments—an adrenaline rise that resets your perspective. Many travelers return home seeing daily life differently.

What’s the biggest advantage of a 4x4 roadtrip in your countries?

Feeling free in unknown places and meeting people you would never expect—while moving at your own rhythm.

Laurent’s favorite places (and where to stop)

Your favorite spots across your destinations?

They’re diverse. In Peru: the coastal desert, the Peruvian Altiplano, and the islands of Lake Titicaca. In Bolivia: the Salar de Uyuni and Sud Lípez—unique, magnetic places. In Chile: I have a soft spot for the Atacama Desert, simply sublime.

Practical feel for distances: don’t judge a day by kilometers alone. On highland tracks and gravel, a “short” stage can still mean 6 to 8 real hours behind the wheel with stops, wind, and altitude.

Best ride memory: opening a new track between Cusco and Colca

Your best ride memory in South America?

Five years ago, we left to open a new 4x4 itinerary with a goal: link Cusco to the Colca Canyon via the track. We had only a vague idea of the route and the time needed. We had no idea what tracks and landscapes we’d face.

We lived three days of unique experience—every village surprised us. I kept thinking: “how do people live here?” The landscapes were incredible, between Altiplano and canyon. Pure joy.

An anecdote from that scouting trip?

On day one, we were supposed to reach a village called Espinar. Not seeing it coming, we asked people along the road. A cyclist told us: “two hours from here.” Two hours later, a pedestrian told us: “four hours.” Their sense of time felt strange to us, but it’s logical: distance and time depend on your daily mode of transport.

How to choose your Planet Ride 4x4 trip

To choose among Planet Ride 4x4 journeys, pick a destination, connect with a local agent, and request a free quote. Laurent and the other experts reply within 48 hours to help you plan your journey.

Travel by 4x4: request a quote

Mini FAQ

Do I need special permits to self-drive in Peru, Bolivia or Chile?

In most cases, a standard driving license is enough for a rental 4x4, but requirements can vary by country, insurer, and border crossings. Confirm license validity, insurance coverage, and cross-border authorizations before departure.

When is the best season for a 4x4 trip on the Altiplano?

Expect strong seasonality: weather, road conditions, and visibility can shift fast at altitude. Choose dates based on the zones you prioritize (Altiplano vs. coast vs. Atacama) and build buffer time into the plan.

Is phone signal reliable on a Peru/Bolivia/Chile 4x4 route?

No—coverage is inconsistent outside major towns. Plan for offline navigation, download maps in advance, and don’t rely on streaming or constant connectivity for routing.

À savoir aujourd’hui

The foundations of Laurent’s approach remain the same: tailor-made routes, reliable vehicles, and the freedom of self-drive without losing the safety net of local expertise. What should always be checked before leaving is current road access on remote tracks, border-crossing rules if your itinerary spans countries, and insurance conditions for high-altitude gravel stages.