Good grid. Did not get the Andes connection and my phrasing for tree savannah was a bit off but I knew what I meant! Thanks for the challenge.

OK... a straightforward grid with only one (that I can see) crossover. However, I was NEVER going to get the final solution and opted for Gin (which almost works). If you have to apologise for a solution upfront, it's probably not a good idea to use it. That said, otherwise a good grid - thanks!