Contiki Holidays eBrochure Latin America 2013-15 rand

Latin America 2013 - 2015 Small Group Adventures for 18-35’s Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands, Costa Rica & Mexico

ONE LIFE ONE SHOT SO MAKE IT COUNT THE ORIGINAL

SINCE '62

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In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

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they say that one day your life will flash before your eyes. so you’d better make sure it’s worth watching.

Memories aren’t created from the things you said you’d do. They’re built from things you’ve done. The moments captured. The world discovered. The lifetime seized. You only get one, after all. So make it count.

A journey with Contiki is a kaleidoscope of unexpected adventures, inspiring places, lifelong friendships, brilliant stories and unforgettable memories.

But most of all, it’s living life out loud, utterly and completely.

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it’s time

life moves pretty fast. if you don’t stop & look around once in a while, you could miss it. - ferris bUELler

No one wants to regret a chance not taken; to sit on the sidelines, experiencing the world through the status updates of friends. We want to get out there & see it first hand. To live it & breathe it for ourselves.

This is the original spirit of Contiki. The spirit that has kept us taking 18-35 year olds on life changing journeys since 1962. Back when there was no Facebook, no return date & no knowledgeable guide, just a shared sense of adventure & a beaten up old mini-van. Since that first trip, we’ve spent over 50 years perfecting the art of living with no regrets.

And to tell you the truth, we’ve gotten pretty damn good at it.

your

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Exploring Latin America is the art of discovery on a whole new level. From colourful locals, ancient sights & traditions, to massive mountains & quaint beaches,

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you won’t want to miss a thing. That’s why we cover off all the highlights, but still give you heaps of freedom & flexible options to pave your own path.

With our local knowledge & years of experience in showing young people the world, it’s like having a Backstage Pass to all of our destinations. Escape the tourist traps & eat with the locals; skip the lines & get direct access; ditch camping & hostels for handpicked hotels & unique cosy lodges – always in comfort for the best overnights.

Best of all, you get to share all this with a new group of friends on our small group adventures. A group of people who share your youthful & passionate curiosity for the world; people you actually want to stay in touch with. It’s all about making every moment count. And at Contiki, it’s what we do best.

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latin america 2013-15 No Regrets It’s your time Live Latin America Backstage Pass Team Contiki ME Time Make every moment count Where you stay Taste Latin America Getting around 365 days of change Contiki cares Save with Contiki Join us online Got a question?

Booking conditions Contiki around the world How to book

SOUTH AMERICA Machu Picchu & The Inca Trail Trek 02 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 19 20 21 22 42 50 51 52 52

Days p.

23 24

Peru Uncovered Inca Panorama

14 26 11 28

Andes & Amazon Highlights

8 29

Argentina & Brazil Experience

10 30

Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper 11 32 The Adventurer

25 34

The Explorer

19 36

Galapagos & Andes

26 38

The Latin Quest

37 40

MEXICO & COSTA RICA Mexico Grande

43 13 44

Mexican Fiesta

9 46

Yucatan Highlights

6 47

Costa Rica Unplugged 12 48

experience our latin america Small group adventures Around 25 people per trip is the perfect size for exploring Latin America.

18-35’s only Relax knowing you’ll share your Latin America adventure with like minded travellers - no younger, no older. new goodies 2 new tours to showcase even more of Latin America’s favourite spots.

Local knowledge Our Latin American based team of experts give you an insider experience you’ll love, and our Local Guides give you that priceless local knowledge.

The best ways to go Included flights to get you there faster, plus private transport makes it easy & efficient. Along the way experience triciclos, trains & boats for local flavour & fun.

Amazing overnights Hotels, lodges & Special Stay overnights mean comfort, facilities & the best locations, every single night. No rolling out tents or hostels when you travel with us.

Better value As well as all our inclusions, there’s no extra cost if you’re travelling solo, and we include local taxes & charges* in our tour prices, to make travel even easier.

* Our trips that visit the Galapagos Islands have a compulsory US$100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park, a US$10 INGALA fee & a US$5 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival. Please ensure you have this money ready or you will not be allowed entry to any of the above locations.

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contiki.com/meetups

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Love latin CHICHEN ITZA, MEXICO

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THE AMAZON, PERU

PISAC, PERU

IGUASSU FALLS, BRAZIL

ISABELA ISLAND, GALAPAGOS

CUSCO, PERU

MACHU PICCHU, PERU

COSTA RICA

RIO

MEXICO

COPACABANA, RIO

ECUADOR

LA BOCA, BUENOS AIRES

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- ma mae w we est st

PERU

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to latin AMERICA Indulge in all that is Latin America. From the exotic Galapagos & Costa Rica to the culture of Peru, Brazil & Argentina let us unlock the sights & sounds wherever you travel.

Your

backstage s pass

includes:

EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION Our accommodation is what really sets us apart from the rest. It’s all about relaxing in comfort & style, with twin-share rooms full of charm & hotels stacked with additional facilities. Plus with our Special Stay lodges in the Colca Canyon, the Amazon jungle & the Costa Rican rainforest, you can see why we are at the top of the game.

EXCLUSIVE inclusions With boat cruises, train rides, triciclo trips, temple visits, tango lessons & the best overnights - we include more in our trips. With WiFi at loads of our accommodation plus internal flights & private transport, you always travel in comfort & style.

PUNO PUNO PU NO,, PERU

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EXCLUSIVE team Our team lives in Latin America, so they’re perfect for giving you access to real, local experiences. Plus the insider knowledge of our expert Local Guides complements our Tour Managers perfectly with their in-depth knowledge of our amazing destinations.

EXCLUSIVE options Whether you want an in-depth cultural experience in Cusco, abseiling down waterfalls in Costa Rica or an adrenaline-pumping speedboat encounter in Iguassu, we make sure you have enough ME Time to create your own adventure.

your

backstage pass exclusive inclusions are highlighted on each tour page

EXCLUSIVE access Access unique places & experiences like our Jungle lodge in the heart of the Amazon or the Galapagos Islands. Go off the beaten track & explore the local life in the Andes, or take a trip to the floating islands of Lake Titicaca. With private transport it’s easy plus we include all the internal flights which means you get there faster.

EXCLUSIVE food Eat where the locals eat, tasting something new & being spoilt with delicious breakfasts every morning is all part of travelling with us. Explore all the flavours of Latin America like a Brazilian BBQ, Argentinian steak or Peruvian Ceviche, the food is as varied as the places we visit.

THE AMAZON, PERU

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you richer.

CUSC SCO

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TEAM “Not all those who wander are lost” Everyone loves that friend who knows where to go & what to do - whether it’s shopping, eating or looking for that new experience… plus knows all the shortcuts along the way.

Our Tour Manager & Local Guide team are your personal experts on all things Latin America & they’re the best in the business. They‘re your google maps, Wikipedia & Trip Advisor all-in-one so you can fully immerse yourself in the destinations. They know the ins & outs of every location & their main focus is helping you see Latin America, your way.

GABY, LOCAL GUIDE E

On our trips, get ready to expose yourself to the real Latin America, new authentic experiences & true local culture. Our team takes care of all the boring stuff like sorting hotels, dinner reservations, bookings & making sure you don’t miss an opportunity to make every second count.

And it’s easy - our expert Spanish, Portuguese & English speaking team do all the talking & get you to the right places quickly & stress free. And you learn even more when you travel with us, through key insider knowledge from our included Local Guides (often their

Ab bra raha ham, LOC ham, OCAL GU UIDE

home) who complement our Tour Managers perfectly – it’s knowledge that you can’t find on the web. So you can relax & enjoy what you came to do – new experiences in some of Latin America’s coolest spots.

In short, our team are The Business.

Get ready for a Backstage Pass to Latin America, more experiences than you ever imagined & a travel experience lived to the fullest with no regrets.

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meet delford & julian

exclusives

✓ TE

AM

Local Guides, from Puerto Maldonado See… the incredible nature. Like the macaws – they’re the most beautiful here.

Learn… about the jungle on our wildlife walks & keep your eyes peeled at the lodge for monkeys.

Taste… Chichanovada prepared the traditional way. It’s amazing.

meet gaby

Local Guide, lives in Cusco Hear... me speak three languages - Quechua my first Inca language, Spanish & English. And I love my country & love sharing it with you.

meet eileen Tour Manager from San Francisco

I love my job because… I feel passionate about my culture & heritage.

You’ll love Peru because… it’s one of the most amazing places on earth, with a unique rich cultural heritage, beautiful cities & wonderful cuisine.

I love… translating Spanish for all my Contiki travellers & listening to them speak their first phrases as they travel.

You’ll love… falling asleep to the sounds of the Amazon jungle.

no compulsory tipping,

Try… Pollo a la brasa (roasted chicken) & fresh ceviche with a Pisco Sour. The Peruvians love it, so will you!

Passionate service & exclusive local knowledge.

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ME

TIME

Travel is all about freedom & discovery.

You want to get amongst it. See More.

Do More. Live More. And go home utterly & completely regret-free.

Hang Ha ng gli lidi d ng di ng,, Ri Rio o

We make sure you get all the time you need to explore your Latin America. Kick back in a hammock & listen to the sounds of the jungle, head off to explore that little market down the road, or take to the water for a scuba dive.

Making the most of those personal moments that are unique to you is just as important as experiencing the big sights.

They’re the memorable moments that happen when you least expect them, when you really connect with the places you visit & the people you travel with.

Contiki’s Backstage Pass to Latin America means our Team will help you get off the beaten track with the inside word on where to go & what to do.

If you really want to make every moment count, our ME Time optionals give you the choice to take your Latin American adventure to a whole new level. Try kayaking to the sounds of monkeys & macaws in the Amazon rainforest, feel the spray of Iguassu Falls from a jetboat, go scuba diving in Brazil, horseback ride to a spectacular waterfall & jump in for a swim in Costa Rica or snorkel in the warm Caribbean waters of Cancun. Our exclusive behind the scenes access means you’ll get great deals & your ME Time optionals are all organised by us, so it’s easy.

Look out for the ‘don’t miss’ call outs on our tour pages for some great tips on how to spend your ME Time. ME Time optionals available per tour are highlighted by the M symbol in our itineraries.

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Me tim Me me, e, th t he am ama az zon on

zip zi p li l ni ning ng g , co cost sta a ri rica ca a

M

e time optionals

Kayaking, The Amazon ‘Unforgettable’ will feel like an understatement as you paddle down one of the largest rivers in the world. Relax & absorb the amazing untouched sights of the Amazon.

expl ex plor pl orin or in ng, g cus usco co

Zip lining, Costa Rica Experiencing the beauty of the Costa Rican rainforest is one thing, zip lining through it is another. Prepare for an adrenaline kick as you fly through the trees & over rivers.

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if something scares you, it might be a good thing to try.

exclusives

✓opt

ME Tim ME me,, ig gu uas ssu su fal alls ls s

Hike the Inca Trail Grab your trainers & encounter amazing on this must-do hike. With an endless supply of culture, scenery, wildlife & ancient Incan ruins literally at your feet, you will understand why this is considered one of the top treks in the world.

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Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio Go up…1299ft up & see Rio in all its splendour. Climb the mountain in glasspanelled cable cars to the summit for astounding views & one of the city’s best spots for pics.

Speedboat ride, Iguassu Falls Prepare for an adventure that combines speed with a natural spectacle. Witness the largest series of waterfalls on the planet as you fly through the river at top speed.

Note: ME Time optional acti ctivit vities e a es are not included in the price o of your tou t r. The h y are r run r by 3 3rd part artyy operators & on occasions, for some of the activities, travellers may be req quir ui ed to sig ign a waiver to participate. Before you leave it’s important that you check your insurance includes your participation in adventure activities & be aware that some of our optionals can be physically demanding & may involve some risk.

ions

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moment count See more, do more, live more. On our trips you’ll do just that. In Latin America we make sure you immerse yourself in the very best: The ultimate inclusions, the best team, the most incredible sights, included on us.

the must do’s all included Take in the magic of a sunrise at Machu Picchu, dance the salsa with the locals in Ecuador or take a dip in Chivay’s relaxing hot springs. It’s all included as part of your Backstage Pass, so you get value that can’t be matched by anyone else. Our trips are about experiencing the stuff you’ve always dreamt of as well as the stuff you could never have imagined; stuff you probably wouldn’t find without the inside scoop from us.

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live the real latin america A Latin American based team of experts, matched with our team of Local Guides in different destinations ensure you get beneath the surface & into the true heart of the destinations you visit. Combine this with our guided walks & talks, delicious local delicacies & incredible cultural sights - we’ll take you inside the real Latin America.

Exclusive Experiences We serve up Latin America’s best experiences.

Ride catamarans or trajineras in Mexico, swim with turtles in Ecuador, hit the rapids in Costa Rica, taste regional delicacies in Brazil & more. We bring Latin America to life through exclusive experiences, like a guidebook never could.

locally guided favela tour, rio

PISAC

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exclusives

Cristo Redentor & favela tour, Rio

✓ inclusions

Whitewater rafting, Costa Rica In one of Latin America’s best spots for adventure, make a splash as you ride the rapids of the Sarapiquí River. This area is known for as the place for those who love to hit the water so it’s the perfect place to give it a try. With your expert guide leading the charge, prepare yourself for an adrenaline rush & prepare to get wet!

Tango lesson, Argentina At the true home of Tango, colourful Buenos Aires, we get you moving and shaking as you perfect the art of their national dance. Learn tips & tricks on how it’s done, then watch the pros in action while you feast on delicious Argentinian treats. Ole!

Sunrise at Machu Picchu The magical cloudforest, the eerie silence as the morning light starts to bring this ancient sacred Inca site into view through the famous Sun Gate. No words can truly describe the feeling of experiencing the sunrise & clouds lifting over the mountain, so with us, you do.

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epic experiences all included

Immerse yourself in the real Rio with a guided favela tour where you’ll discover the local way of life - from those that know it best. Finish up with a visit to Cristo Redentor whose outstretched arms make for one of Latin America’s most famous symbols & the best views in the city.

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hotels, rainforest camps, beach & jungle lodges

Ama az zon jungle lodg ge

Our Latin American accommodation is nothing short of amazing. It’s all about comfy overnights & a place you’ll love coming home to. It’s something else that makes us unique. From our hotels & lodges to our 3 incredible Special Stays, travelling Contiki-style means you’re guaranteed to sleep in comfort. what makes us differe ent?

Comfort wh Co her ere e yo you ne need ed to be Room R omss aree twin-share & well lo loca cate ted d hote t ls & lodges ensure yo you’ u re rig ight ht amongst the action in the placees that cou ount! In Buzios & Rio we are near the beach & in Ar Areq equipa, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco & Ollantayttam ambo we’re right next to the main squares.

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Amazing facilities & eats Greatt fa Grea f cililiti ties are key ey ((th thiinkk pool ols, bars & WiFi) & wakkin ing g up to br brea eakf kfas astt ev eveery morning means you’ u ll start r thee day a out right (like fresh fruit, scrambled eggs g , cereal, coffee, juice & more).

It’ss alll abo out comfort & facilities you’ll love.

Keep it lo local Our accommodation is unique, cute & reflects the surroundingss you visit, like a colonial hotel in Cusco o. We keep it local too, with our

authentic overrnights like our Amazon Jungle & Colca Canyo on Special Stays & our cosy rainforest cam mp (see p.17 for more).

Going solo o?

We don’t charg ge single supplements for solo travellers. We’ll match you with a same sex room-mate, or if if you want, you can always opt for thee pr priv ivac acyy of o your own room for a little extra – it’ t’ss up tto o yo you. u Visit contiki.com/latiname meri rica c for more.

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16 | 17 A AZON JUNGL AM G E LO LODG DG GE

experien nce our 4 uniq q ue spec cia al stays

exclusives

Get back to nature in comfort you’ll love with our unique Amazon Jungle Lodge Special Stay.

✓Accommodation

We arrive in Puerto Maldonado where you’ll meet your Local Guides, then it’s straight to the river for a ride deep into the rainforest! As you board our private boat, keep your eyes peeled for capybaras, macaws & even Howler monkeys along the way.

On arrival, you’ll soon see why this place is the perfect haven to relax. Take a walk through the rainforest with your guide who’ll give you the inside track on the area, or simply sit in a hammock & read your favourite book. A trip to the heights of a canopy tower for endless jungle views is a must. After a delicious home cooked meal, maybe head to the Capybara bar & sit back with a Coca tea or a Pisco Sour before heading back to your candle-lit room.

AM A MAZ AZON N JUN NGL GLE E LO LODG DGE DG E

With the jungle as your backdrop, the open walled rooms (complete with private en-suite facilities) & comfy beds are the ideal place to unwind as you fall asleep to the relaxing sounds of the rainforest.

A AZ AM ZON ON J JUN U GL UN LE LO ODG GE

Try our Jungle Lodge

COST CO STA ST AR RIIC CA AN JU UNG NGLE LO OD D DGE GE GE

You’ll love our Costa Rican Lodge, great facilities in paradise get you right to the heart of the jungle!

Go local with our rustic lodge in the Colca Canyon Wake up to panoramic Colca Canyon views from our cute lodge in the heart of ancient Inca territory. Its remote location means it’s the perfect way to get away from it all. Spacious rooms mean you’re always comfy & the friendly staff will ensure it’s a home away from home.

Sleep easy in our rainforest eco-camp

C ST CO STA A RI RICA CAN CA NJ JU UNG GLE E LO OD DG GE E

CO OLC LCA A CA CANY NY YON O L LOD OD DGE GE

Tupac Ya anp npan anqu an q i, Cus qu sco o

Stay deep in the heart of the jungle in our cool Costa Rican rainforest eco-camp, with queen-sized beds, en-suite facilities & private covered terraces with comfortable chairs. You’ll really relax in this tropical paradise.

Ho H ot te el Ic Ica ar o S ar Su uit ites tes es,, B .A .A A..

Puno Pu no o Hot ote el l , Ca l, C so s na Plaza

Hote Ho tel So Sol Olla Sol ant tay ayta tamb ta ambo mb bo

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From succulent Argentinian steak & sizzling Brazilian BBQs, to fresh Peruvian ceviche. The food here is as varied as the places you visit.

On our trips prepare for edible delights, there’s no generic snacks when you travel with us. We include breakfast each day, some lunches & lots of evening meals. We don’t include every meal for a reason. We leave lots of well placed gaps so you can head out & explore in your time & to your budget.

Start out the day right with included breakfasts that will impress – think scrambled eggs or omelettes, fresh fruit, cereals, yoghurt, breads, meats & more.

We include loads of meals & special experiences too, like a Tango show, dinner & drinks, gallo pinto in Costa Rica &

a Brazilian BBQ dinner where you’ll indulge in mouth-watering treats & some tried & tested traditional favourites in Peru.

In your ME Time, hit the streets & follow your nose to find some local restaurants or markets for some authentic eats. Wherever you travel, our team of Latin American based experts will help you uncover some delicious local restaurants & street food at amazing prices.

We’re pretty good at catering to your dietary requirements too – just let us know when you book & we’ll do our best to accommodate.

STEA AK, K, AR RG GENTI GEN TINA

ME TIM ME ME, OLL LLAN ANT TA AYT AYT Y A AM MBO O

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TAMA TAMA ALE ES, S, P PER ERU ER

MARKET E S ET S,, Pue uert rto rt Ma ald l on onado o

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exclusives

Say farewell to 18 hour bus rides cramped in with other travellers.

On our tours we include flights between destinations & we get you where you need to be, fast, so you experience more.

✓access & food

For shorter journeys it’s all about comfy private coach transport. It’s more of a social event where you can sit back & chill or chat with your new travel mates. Plus we get you out on the water with boat rides on Lake Titicaca, in Rio, the Amazon, Costa Rica & the Galapagos. Plus train rides too, so you get the all-round Latin American experience.

BOAT RIDE, LAKE TITICACA

Latin America has some other seriously cool ways to get around – so we include them too. Think triciclo rides, canoes & cable cars. It’s all part of the adventure.

Why we’re different • Private transport • Included flights • Train & boat rides • Fun ways to get around the local way, like triciclos, bikes & more

INCLUDED FLIGHTS

C NO CA NOE RI R DE D , TH T E AM A AZ A ON

TR T RIC CICLO IC IC RID DE, TITICACA A

MACH MA ACH C U PI PIC CCHU H TRAIN

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PRIVATE, COM OMFY FY C COA OA AC CH HES S

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365 days is the time it takes our precious planet to revolve around the sun.

And the time in which Contiki is comm mitted itted to d de eliveriing ng real change through our sustainability efforts.

A chat with cÉline Contiki: This year you travelled to Mexico with the Contiki team to work with the MAR Leadership Foundation.

What was the highlight of the trip for you?

Céline: It was wonderful to see the Contiki R:evolve winners not only discover the world of diving, but learn about and take active part in the conservation efforts happening on the Mesoamerican Reef. I feel there was a sense of pride – not only had they won the trip because of their own sustainability initiative, but their company was really doing something positive in supporting the MAR Leadership programme. My hope is this experience stays with them and continues to inspire them.

Contiki’s R:evolve Leaders & MAR Leaders, Mexico

Contiki: You worked closely on the 2012 R:evolve Initiative with the Contiki community. What were your thoughts on the responses for making a commitment to the change?

cÉline cousteau

Exploring our precious planet is a privilege. A privilege that also comes with responsibility & at Contiki we put that responsibility at the core of everything we do. Our R:evolve programme supports our ocean conservation initiatives & in April 2012 Contiki’s sustainability ambassador Céline Cousteau connected with Contiki team & community members to make a movement of change. The focus is on encouraging everyone to make a difference to our planet every day & really make it count. As part of the initiative Contiki selected 10 R:evolve Leaders from inside the company

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& our community of travellers.

They spent 10 days in Mexico & experienced first-hand the beauty of our oceans & the need to preserve our reefs & its inhabitants through their work with the MAR Leadership Foundation, one of Contiki’s ocean sustainability projects. The end goal: to get every individual focused on their actions, & how they can count towards leaving the world a better place.

Find out more & watch Céline’s documentary of the trip at:

Céline: There were a lot of good ideas submitted and my belief is all of these can and should be implemented whether a winner or not. Many suggestions were as simple as recycling and consuming less, which are always good actions to follow.

There were also intricate and thoughtful strategies that started with looking at how people function and to then create a sustainability project that adapted to their lifestyle, making it easy for them to integrate the initiatives proposed. Those ideas are the ones that are really about problem solving with people’s own options, limitations, and potential in mind.

Contiki: What do you think Contiki travellers can do to make a change to our planet?

Céline: Every journey offers possibilities: bring your own amenities rather than open a new shampoo in every hotel, recycle everything you can, bring a water bottle, don’t take all the print outs unless you need them (or better yet just share them). Ask how you can give back to the places you visit- either to people, culture and arts, the environment, other species or in any way you can think to. You can return to places you have visited and volunteer your time to local non-profits to restore local ecosystems, support communities or otherwise donate time. As travellers, we have incredible opportunities to give back to the places we visit.

Follow Céline on twitter @celinecousteau and at celinecousteau.com

contiki.com/contikicares

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We travel to experience the wonders that our world has to offer. we’re committed to ensuring they remain for generations to come.

Conservation is at the heart of how we plan & run our trips. There are a bunch of ways that you can help.

Learn more at: contiki.com/contikicares/you

contiki

oceans

Oceans cover 71% of the Earth’s surface & they form the largest habitat on the planet supporting the greatest variety of life.

We support marine preservation through our projects around

the world, including the Mesoamerican Reef Leadership Program (MAR) which helps young environmentalists in their handson work protecting the world’s second largest barrier reef.

treadright foundation We’re founding partners of the TreadRight Foundation Contiki believes that we have a responsibility to create memorable travel experiences without putting tourism destinations at risk, & there’s much more to that than just words on paper.

TreadRight supports projects that encourage the development of tourism by encouraging initiatives which benefit a destination's

environment, natural & cultural heritage, & community. In partnership with TreadRight, Contiki continues to work with Céline Cousteau & the MAR Leaders, now for the second year.

The Foundation has helped protect 3 million hectares of forest in Brazil, supported the World Wildlife Fund’s work with indigenous sustainable tourism in Australia, plus much more.

What’s more, TreadRight is committed to continuing with this support for sustainable tourism for years to come – as the primary sponsors of The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards – encouraging tourism operators to develop & share sustainable tourism practices around the world.

To learn more please visit www.treadright.org.

recycl ling Contiki, as part of The Travel Corporation, is proud to be using 100% recycled paper for the body of our brochures.

Some of the positive impacts of this include saving more

than 54,000* trees per year and reducing landfill waste thatproduces harmful greenhouse gases. In addition, the paper used is rated “Excellent” by the World Wildlife Federation’s (WWF) environmental benchmarking

tool. We are proud to commit to using one of the most environmentally friendlycoated recycled papers on Planet Earth. *Calculations based on data from the Environmental Defense Network

loving it local We’re proud to support local businesses on our trips, whether it be via the activities we do, the places we eat or the accommodation in which we sleep.

operators may own their own vehicles & run their own show independent of locals, wherever possible, Contiki work only with local suppliers & businesses.

In Latin America, almost every one of the places we stay at are locally owned, so profits feed directly back to the local communities. Where other travel

What you can do?

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Taking care of the environment shouldn’t stop when you go travelling. Simple stuff like re-using your drink bottle, choosing products

with less packaging, recycling on the go or simply turning off the lights when you leave your hotel room are all ways to lessen your environmental impact.

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we know how important your hard earned CASH is, so we have plenty of deals to help IT go further.

pay early for the best deals Book & pay early for the best deal on your tour & airfares.

Don’t miss out as these discounts are subject to availability & may be withdrawn.

Save up to R7710 Pay in full on or before 27th June 2013 & save up to 10%.

Save up to R5780 Pay in full on or before 29th August 2013 & save up to 7.5%.

Save up to R3855 Pay in full on or before 31st October 2013 & save up to 5%. * Pay Early Savings of R7710, R5780 & R3855 based on 37 Day The Latin Quest p.40-41.

The facts: All these discounts apply to the land portion of your tour price only (This excludes taxes, included flight costs, extra accomodation, Inca Trail permit and optional activities. Your tour price does not include the costs of international flights to / from Latin America that start or end your tour). You can combine group discounts (‘Book with mates’), multi tour discounts (‘2 or more’) & early payment (‘Pay Early’) discounts on tours of 7 days or longer. Pay Early savings do not apply to bookings made within 45 days of tour departure, or bookings that already receive a 6 month or 12 month pay early discount.

The Pay Early savings above only apply to departures on or after 31st October, 2013.

gold seal protection Our Gold Seal means that if you cancel your tour before you leave for your tour, we won’t charge you a cent. And if you’re ill or have to leave the trip early for personal reasons, Gold Seal will refund you A$40 R90 for for each day that you miss & will cover your air ticket costs. See p.50.

travelling again?

If you’ve travelled with us before, we’d like to welcome you back with a 5% discount. Plus, we can hook you up with discounts with our sister companies as well. See p.50 for more.

2 or more Book 2 Contiki tours of 7 days or longer at the same time & get R550 off your second tour.

book with mates We believe in the principle of “the more the merrier”. So the more friends you can round up, the more you will save.

4 or more Everyone saves 5% 7 or more Everyone saves 7.5% 10 or more Everyone saves 10%, or invite an 11th for free!

22-23 Deals_Intro S.Am.indd 2

GO VINTAGE. Buy your next outfit at your local charity shop.

RIDE A BIKE TO WORK. Save money on transport costs (plus you’ll get fit too!)

CUT THE CREDIT. Stick a picture of your next holiday spot on your credit card. When you go to use it next, you’ll think twice.

GOT SKILLS? Why not take it to the streets & try busking.

GO BACK TO BASICS? Save money on fruit & veg & grow your own.

Got your own tip on how to save?

Tell us about it at facebook.com/contiki

04/04/2013 16:47

22 | 23

south

america

PERU, ARGENTINA BRAZIL, ECUADOR & the GALAPAGOS islands Friendly locals, endless landscapes, beaches, colourful cities & guaranteed good times, South America is like nowhere else.

From Cusco, the Amazon & Iguassu Falls to the city buzz of Buenos Aires & legendary hotspots of Brazil (plus everything in-between), we get you closer. Mix this with the incredible wildlife & sights in Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands & you’re ready for an in-depth South American adventure like no other.

PISA PI SAC SA C

22-23 Deals_Intro S.Am.indd 3

9 trips from 8 to 37 days

04/04/2013 16:47

our inca trail trek

Machu Picchu - the Lost City of the Incas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the 7 new wonders of the world & Peru’s most famous spot. All our tours to Peru include a visit to Machu Picchu by coach from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) but you can also try our hugely popular Inca Trail Trek experience.

We’ll take the train to “KM104”, our starting point for this day-long trek, where we’ll meet our expert Local Guide who’ll lead today’s journey.

As you start the trek along the same path as the ancient Incas, you’ll soon know why this experience is considered a must-do.

The views along the trail are mindblowing & the combination of

24-25 Machu Pichu.indd 2

cloudforest, wildlife & waterfalls will wow & reward you at every turn.

After the morning leg of the trek, we’ll stop for your included lunch where you can soak up more incredible views before it’s back on the trail.

views & landscapes mixed with the feeling of success at completing this once in a lifetime trek is unbeatable.

The next morning you get another chance to return to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes by coach with the group.

Arriving at the Sun Gate for that first glimpse of Machu Picchu will give you a total buzz - the endless

For tours that can do the hike see p.26-27, 28-29, 34-35, 36-37, 38-39, 40-41.

04/04/2013 13:19

24 | 25

When you book your tour (as early in advance as possible) it’s essential that you let us know the following details: • Your full name (as appears on passport), your nationality, date of birth & gender • Your passport number & date of expiry What else? It’s also important that the passport information that you submit with your application is exactly the same as the passport you will use to travel to Latin America. You will also need your passport to enter onto the trail. It’s best to play it safe - if your information changes it can

24-25 Machu Pichu.indd 3

result in a penalty & cancellation of admission to the trail. No refunds will be given.

• Book early! To help preserve Machu Picchu for future generations, the Peruvian Government closely controls the number of travellers on the trail, with only 500 pre-purchased permits available each day.

To ensure you get your chance to hike the trail, book your spot early. It’s advisable to book at least 3 months before travelling in the low season (between Oct & Apr) & 6 months before travelling in the high season (May to Sept), although it is at times possible to get permits outside these timescales. We will process your application within 3 days of booking; we cannot guarantee permit availability.

• Inca Trail permits are nonrefundable & non-changeable so it’s essential that you let us know your correct passport details at the time of booking so we can process your application quickly.

Contiki will process your application on your behalf.

Please note that the trail is closed in February for maintenance.

• Your passport must have 6 months validity at the time of travel.

All our Peru tours visit Machu Picchu, but it’s your choice to take the Inca Trail Trek option in addition to your tour. Travellers that choose to hike the trail will also have the chance to return to Machu Picchu by coach from Aguas Calientes with the group the following morning.

our inca trail trek

essential booking requirements

04/04/2013 13:19

PERU UNCOVERED 14 Days 1 countrY From R29699pp* R2122 per day PERU

LOCAL COLOUR IN PERU

your backstage pass includes • City tour of Arequipa visiting the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha Plus Contiki Special Stays

Brazil

• Amazon Jungle Lodge • Colca Canyon Lodge AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) 1

Plus flights on map included in tour price!

Rainforest

AMAZON LODGE 1

INCA TRAIL

1 Lima

Ollantaytambo

1 PUERTO MALDONADO

PERU

SACRED 1 VALLEY Bolivia

CUSCO 4 PACIFIC OCEAN

Coast

Andes

Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1

2 PUNO/LAKE TITICACA

ME Time ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

ME Time optionals

don’t miss Sweet, sour & delicious!

The South American born Pisco Sour cocktail is a must for those after something tantalizing to sip on in the sun.

M Whitewater rafting on the Urubamba River M Mountain biking adventure

1 AREQUIPA Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe

@JamieBerg27: Just got back from #Peru!

Amazing experience (thanks @contiki!). #MachuPicchu was beyond beautiful Visit contiki.com/peru-uncovered

26-27 Peru Uncovered.indd 2

04/04/2013 16:48

26 | 27

Venture into Peru’s hotspots. From ancient Incan culture, the Andes & the Amazon, Peru has it all. Visit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, colonial Cusco & Machu Picchu. Then when you’re done, sit back & re-live the trip over a perfect Pisco Sour.

Day 1: Arrive Lima Meet your Contiki team & group this morning before checking out the city sights. Made up of 43 districts with their own flair, bustling Lima is not short of things to do & with a free afternoon the city’s yours to explore. Hotel (D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores

CUSCO

Start Lima

•• • •

Day 4: Colca Canyon to Puno This morning we visit the Colca Canyon & we’ll try to spot the Andean condor.

Later, experience the majestic mountains & lakes of the Andes along the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Hotel (B) See the massive Colca Canyon Visit Cruz del Condor Visit Yanque

• ••

Day 5: Puno Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising Lake Titicaca to experience the island of Taquile & the floating Uros Islands.

Experience the unique cultures & way of life here as we visit locals to see their handmade crafts & famous textiles. Hotel (B,D) Ride on a triciclo!

Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities

•• •

Day 6: Puno to Cusco First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins, where there’s a chance to buy their famous artistic ceramic bulls. See the last remaining two-storey Inca walls in Raqchi before reaching the heart of the ancient Incan empire, Cusco. Hotel (B) Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani See the Temple of Wiracocha

• •

26-27 Peru Uncovered.indd 3

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan

19 23 2 16 27 6 20 24 11 18 29 15 26 13 24 3

29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699

31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069

Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May May May May Jun

17 31 17 28 29 4 13 25 2 11 23 30 8

29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699

31069 31069 n/a 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069

2013

••

Day 3: Arequipa to Colca Canyon We drive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve (home to the elusive vicuña) on our way to the Colca Canyon. We visit the village of Chivay for a relaxing hot springs swim & a night at our rustic lodge.

Contiki Special Stay (B,L,D) See wild vicuña See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip

How much & when Code: LILI/LILIT 2013/14/15

•

Day 2: Lima to Arequipa We fly to Peru’s second largest city, the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour.

Hotel (B) City walking tour Visit the Santa Catalina Convent & the Plaza de Armas

Day 7: Cusco The modern-day starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore this ancient city on foot, then the afternoon’s yours.

Head out & explore - from Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops to boutiques, delicious cuisine & adrenaline activities, there’s loads to experience. Hotel (B,D) City walking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro Market

Day 10: Aguas Calientes to Cusco Wake early & be among the first to enter Machu Picchu to see the sun rising above the mountain tops. Learn more about Machu Picchu as you tour with your guide, then spend some time exploring in your own time before returning to base. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar

Day 8: Cusco to Sacred Valley Today we explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before spending the night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pisac & Ollantaytambo Try some local Chicha de Jora

Day 11: Cusco Feed your adrenaline urges with activities like mountain biking & rafting. Get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife, try a “Cerveza Cusquena” & dance the night away & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B)

••

• •

Day 9: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes Adventure & adrenaline await!

From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads to experience today before we take the train to Aguas Calientes this afternoon. Hotel (B) M Horse riding through the Sacred Valley Day 9: Inca Trail Trek Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to our highlight Machu Picchu!

Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloudforest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our local guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.24-25 for more info.

Code: LILIT

SHOPPING IN PISAC

Itinerary & Sightseeing

SOUTH AMERICA

•

Day 12: Cusco to Jungle Lodge Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then take to the shores with a flashlight to spot caiman, an Amazonian alligator!

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,L,D) Visit the Infierno community Puerto Maldonado city tour Canopy hike for amazing jungle views

•• •

Day 13: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado Board a simple catamaran & keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like the giant otter, before spending the afternoon relaxing. Hotel (B,L,D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata River or jungle canopy climb

Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec

6 10 20 3 14 24 7 11 28 5 16 2 13 30 11 21 ●

4 18 4 15 16 22 31 12 19 28 10 17 26

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan

20 27 6 18 25 3 15 22 31 12 19 28 10 17 26 7 14 23 5 12 21 2 9

29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699 29699

31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069 31069

Jan Feb Feb Feb Mar

18 2 15 27 6

30595 30595 30595 30595 30595

31965 31965 n/a n/a 31965

2014

2014 Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May May May

Start Lima

Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec

7 14 23 5 12 21 2 9 18 30 6 15 27 4 13 25 1 10 22 29 8 20 ▲ 27 ◆

2015 Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb

5 20 2 14 21

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement (tour only) add R4145.

Single room supplement (tour + Inca Trail) add R4145.

Start Lima 8:00am & end Lima 6:00pm.

Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

Note: The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance. ● Tour spends Xmas in Puno & New Year’s Eve in Cusco. ▲ Tour spends Xmas in Cusco & New Year’s Eve in Jungle Lodge. ◆ Tour spends New Year’s Eve in Puno.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

Peru Uncovered 14 days What’s Included: 13 nights accommodation: 11 nights in twin-share hotels 2 nights in Special Stay experiences (more on p.16-17) 22 meals: 13 breakfasts (B) 3 lunches (L) 6 dinners (D) Trekking option - 23 meals: 13 breakfasts (B) 4 lunches (L) 6 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides 3 flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Local taxes & service charges

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R2400.

See p.22 for details.

4 World Heritage sites visited

MEET THE FRIENDLY LOCALS

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

PISAC

•

Day 14: Puerto Maldonado to Lima Your tour ends on arrival in Lima, where it’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your travel mates. (B) Please note: Do not book flights before 9:00pm.

04/04/2013 16:48

Visit contiki.com/inca-panorama

INCA PANORAMA

Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane or train

11 Days 1 countrY

Brazil

PERU Rainforest

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu)

From R21385pp* R1945 per day

1 Lima

1

INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo Andes

PACIFIC OCEAN

CUSCO 3

Coast

Inclusions • City tour of Arequipa & visit the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha Plus Contiki Special Stay • Colca Canyon Lodge

Itinerary & Sightseeing

ME Time optionals

Code: LICU/LICUT 2013/14/15

Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time.

Start Lima

15 meals: 10 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), & 4 dinners (D) Trekking option - 16 meals: 10 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L) & 4 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides 1 flight & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R1979.

See p.22 for details.

4 World Heritage sites visited

28-29 Inca Panorama_Andes & Amazon.indd 2

Day 1: Arrive Lima Meet your Contiki team & group this morning before checking out the city sights. Made up of 43 districts with their own flair, bustling Lima is not short of things to do & with a free afternoon the city’s yours to explore.

Hotel (D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores

PISAC

How much & when

10 nights accommodation: 9 nights in twin-share hotels 1 night Special Stay experience (more on p.16-17)

2 PUNO/LAKE 1 TITICACA AREQUIPA

LAKE TITICACA

Plus flight on map included in tour price!

What’s Included:

Bolivia

Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1

backstage pass

1 SACRED VALLEY

Finish Cusco

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

2013 Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec

Finish Cusco

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

17 24 3 15 22 31 12 19 28 9 16 25 7 14 23 4 11 20 2 9 18 30 6

21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385

22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755

15 30 12 24 3

22025 22025 22025 22025 22025

23395 23395 n/a n/a 23395

2014

6 Jul 10 Jul 20 Jul 3 Aug 14 Aug 24 Sep 7 Sep 11 Sep 28 Oct 5 Oct 16 Oct 2 Nov 13 Nov 30 Dec 11 Dec 21 ● Dec

2014 Jan 4 Jan 18 Feb 4 Mar 15 Mar 16 Mar 22 Mar 31 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 28 May 10 May 17 May 26

Start Lima

•

Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May Jun

16 20 30 13 24 3 17 21 8 15 26 12 23 10 21 31

21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385

22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755

14 28 14 25 26 1 10 22 29 8 20 27 5

21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385 21385

22755 22755 n/a 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755 22755

Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec

7 Jun 14 Jun 23 Jul 5 Jul 12 Jul 21 Jul 2 Aug 9 Aug 18 Aug 30 Sep 6 Sep 15 Sep 27 Oct 4 Oct 13 Oct 25 Nov 1 Nov 10 Nov 22 Dec 29 Dec 8 Dec 20 ▲ Dec 27 ◆ Jan

2015 Jan 5 Jan 20 Feb 2 Feb 14 Feb 21

Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement (tour only) add R3025.

Single room supplement (tour + Inca Trail) add R3025.

Start Lima 8:00am & end Cusco 11:00am.

Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

Note: The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance. ● Tour spends Xmas in Puno. ▲ Tour spends Xmas in Cusco. ◆ Tour spends New Year’s Eve in Puno.

For travel insurance see p.50.

Day 2: Lima to Arequipa We fly to Peru’s second largest city, the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour. Hotel (B) City walking tour Visit the Santa Catalina Convent & the Plaza de Armas

••

Day 3: Arequipa to Colca Canyon We drive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve (home to the elusive vicuña) on our way to the Colca Canyon. We visit the village of Chivay for a relaxing hot springs swim & a night at our rustic lodge.

Contiki Special Stay (B,L,D) See wild vicuña See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip

•• • •

Day 4: Colca Canyon to Puno This morning we visit the Colca Canyon & we’ll try to spot the Andean condor. Later, experience the majestic mountains & lakes of the Andes along the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Hotel (B) See the massive Colca Canyon Visit Cruz del Condor Visit Yanque

•• •

Day 5: Puno Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising Lake Titicaca to experience the island of Taquile & the floating Uros Islands. Experience the unique cultures & way of life here as we visit locals to see their handmade crafts & famous textiles. Hotel (B,D) Ride on a triciclo!

Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca

••

•

Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities

Day 9: Inca Trail Trek Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to our highlight Machu Picchu!

Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloudforest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our local guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.24-25 for more info.

Code: LICUT

Day 6: Puno to Cusco First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins, where there’s a chance to buy their famous artistic ceramic bulls. See the last remaining two-storey Inca walls in Raqchi before reaching the heart of the ancient Incan empire, Cusco.

Hotel (B) Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani See the Temple of Wiracocha

• •

Day 7: Cusco The modern-day starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore this ancient city on foot, then the afternoon’s yours. Head out & explore - from Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops to boutiques, delicious cuisine & adrenaline activities, there’s loads to experience. Hotel (B,D) City walking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro Market

••

Day 8: Cusco to Sacred Valley Today we explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before spending the night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pisac & Ollantaytambo Try some local Chicha de Jora

•

Day 10: Aguas Calientes to Cusco Wake early & be among the first to enter Machu Picchu to see the sun rising above the mountain tops. Learn more about Machu Picchu as you tour with your guide, then spend some time exploring in your own time before returning to base.

Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar

•

Day 11: Depart Cusco It’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your travel mates as your tour ends after breakfast. (B)

•

Day 9: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes Adventure & adrenaline await!

From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads to experience today before we take the train to Aguas Calientes this afternoon. Hotel (B) M Horse riding through the Sacred Valley

MACHU PICCHU

04/04/2013 16:53

28 | 29 Visit contiki.com/andes-amazon

SOUTH AMERICA

ANDES & AMAZON

Andes & Amazon Highlights 8 days

HIGHLIGHTS

backstage pass

8 Days 1 countrY

(Machu Picchu)

Andes

Itinerary & Sightseeing

••

Day 2: Cusco to Sacred Valley Today we explore the Sacred Valley. We’ll start the day with a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before spending the night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. With lots of cute cafés & restaurants, find a local spot to relax with your mates tonight. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pisac & Ollantaytambo Try some local Chicha de Jora

• •

Day 3: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes Adventure & adrenaline await!

From biking & hiking to rafting

Day 3: Inca Trail Trek Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to our highlight Machu Picchu!

Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloudforest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our local guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.24-25 for more info.

Code: CULIT Day 4: Aguas Calientes to Cusco Wake early & be among the first to enter Machu Picchu. See the sun rising above the incredible

mountain tops. Learn more about the sites as you tour with your guide, then spend time exploring before returning to the base. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar

•

Day 5: Cusco Feed your adrenaline urges with activities like mountain biking & rafting. Get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife, try a “Cerveza Cusquena” & dance the night away & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B) M Mountain biking adventure Day 6: Cusco to Jungle Lodge Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then take to the shores with a flashlight to spot caiman, an Amazonian alligator! Later, relax in paradise at our incredible Jungle Lodge.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,L,D) Visit the Infierno community Puerto Maldonado city tour Canopy hike for amazing jungle views

•• •

Day 7: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado Board a simple catamaran & keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, like the giant otter before spending the afternoon relaxing. Hotel (B,L,D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata River or Jungle Canopy climb

•

Day 8: Puerto Maldonado to Lima Your tour ends on arrival in Lima, where it’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your travel mates. (B) Please note: Do not book flights before 9:00pm.

28-29 Inca Panorama_Andes & Amazon.indd 3

1 PUERTO MALDONADO

Ollantaytambo

Plus Contiki Special Stay • Amazon Jungle Lodge Plus flights on map included in tour price!

Bolivia

Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe

AMAZON RAINFOREST CANOPY

there’s loads to experience today before we take the train to Aguas Calientes this afternoon. Hotel (B) M Horse riding through the Sacred Valley

AMAZON LODGE 1

SACRED 1 VALLEY 3 CUSCO

PACIFIC OCEAN

Coast

Day 1: Arrive Cusco As the modern-day starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore the city on foot, then the afternoon’s yours.

From Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops to boutiques & delicious cuisine & adrenaline activities, there’s loads to experience.

Hotel (D) City walking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral & San Pedro Market

1

INCA TRAIL

Lima

• Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha

Rainforest

AGUAS CALIENTES

From R20129pp* R2517 per day

Inclusions

Brazil

PERU

ME Time optionals Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time.

How much & when

What’s Included: Code: CULI/CULIT 2013/14/15 Start Cusco

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

19 23 2 16 27 6 20 24 11 18 29 15 26 13 24 3

20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129

21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499

17 31 17 28 29 4 13 25 2 11 23 30 8

20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129

21499 21499 n/a 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499

2013 Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec

10 24 10 21 22 28 6 18 25 4 16 23 1

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

20 27 6 18 25 3 15 22 31 12 19 28 10 17 26 7 14 23 5 12 21 2

20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129 20129

21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499 21499

9 18 2 15 27 6

20735 20735 20735 20735 20735 20735

22105 22105 22105 n/a n/a 22105

2014

12 Jul 16 Jul 26 Aug 9 Aug 20 Aug 30 Sep 13 Sep 17 Sep 4 Oct 11 Oct 22 Oct 8 Nov 19 Nov 6 Dec 17 Dec 27 ● Jan

2014 Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May May May Jun

Start Cusco

Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May May May May Jun

Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec

13 Jun 20 Jun 29 Jul 11 Jul 18 Jul 27 Aug 8 Aug 15 Aug 24 Aug 5 Sep 12 Sep 21 Sep 3 Oct 10 Oct 19 Oct 31 Nov 7 Nov 16 Nov 28 Dec 5 Dec 14 Dec 26 ◆ Jan

2015 Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb

2 11 26 8 20 27

Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Mar

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement (tour only) add R3625.

Single room supplement (tour + Inca Trail) add R3625.

Start Cusco 8:00am & end Lima 6:00pm.

Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

Note: The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance. ● Tour spends New Year’s Eve in Cusco. ◆ Tour spends New Year’s Eve in Jungle Lodge.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

7 nights accommodation: 6 nights in twin-share hotels 1 night Special Stay experience (more on p.16-17) 12 meals: 7 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L) & 3 dinners (D) Trekking option - 13 meals: 7 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L) & 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides 2 flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R1635.

See p.22 for details.

3 World Heritage sites visited

MOUNTAIN BIKING

04/04/2013 16:54

aRGENTINA & BRAZIL EXPERIENCE ?

Travelling Early For travel between June ‘13 - January ‘14 see opposite

10 Days 2 countries From R29555pp* R2956 per day ARGENTINA BRAZIL

COPACABANA BEACH AT SUNSET

your backstage pass includes

Airport

BUZIOS 2

RIO DE JANEIRO 3 Paraguay

• Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • Brazilian BBQ feast in Iguassu • Boat cruise in Rio • City tour of Rio • Locally guided Rio favela tour • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus flights on map included in tour price!

2 IGUASSU FALLS

ME Time ARGENTINA BRAZIL

Uruguay

BUENOS 2 AIRES Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Plane

ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

ME Time optionals

eat ...

At Sukao Bar, Buzios.

It’s the perfect place to grab a fresh juice or smoothie whilst taking a break from the beach.

M Helicopter flight over Iguassu Falls M Football (when available)

Danielle Potter: I’m currently on the Argentina & Brazil Experience...!!! Love South America!!!! :) Visit contiki.com/southam-experience

30-31 Argentina & Brazil Exp.indd 2

04/04/2013 16:55

30 | 31

Do catamarans, beaches, the rush of Iguassu & buzz of Rio sound like you? Mix this with cosmopolitan Buenos Aires & you’ve got the perfect combo of adventure, discovery & sun-seeking in 10 epic days through Argentina & Brazil.

Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires Hola Buenos Aires! This cosmopolitan city is filled with culture & diversity in everything from buildings to its people.

As the birthplace of tango there’s a love of music, art, dance & football – not to mention world-renowned beef & red wine. This morning, meet up with your Tour Manager & group to get out & experience the iconic city spots like San Telmo & La Boca.

Tonight, get ready to tango with the locals as you learn all the tricks at a dance lesson & show. Hotel (D) Visit the neighbourhoods of San Telmo, La Boca, Puerto Madero, Recoleta, Palermo Chio & Palermo Soho Tango lesson, show & dinner

HANG GLIDING OVER RIO

Day 2: Buenos Aires Today is all yours! You could catch a football game, drink champagne at a polo match, hit the shops or pay a visit to the historic Gran Café Tortoni for a café con leche for some people watching. Tonight, head out to experience BA by night.

Hotel (B) M Argentinian culinary experience

Code: BARJ 2013/14 Finish Rio de Janeiro

Total Cost R pp*

Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct

Start Buenos Aires

21 4 18 8 22 13 20

Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Oct Oct

30 13 27 17 1 22 29

29555 29555 29555 29555 29555 29555 29555

Nov 17 Dec 15

12 meals: 9 breakfasts (B) 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides

Total Cost R pp*

Nov 26 Dec 24

29555 29555

Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van

Jan 14 Jan 28

29555 29555

Sightseeing tours of all major areas

2014 Jan 5 Jan 19

What’s Included:

Finish Rio de Janeiro

2013

2013

2 flights & transfers

Local taxes & service charges to experience the Falls. Try a speed boat ride to feel the spray of the Falls, or go for a swim back at the hotel.

Tonight we have tasty Brazilian BBQ. Hotel (B,D) Visit Iguassu Falls Taste delicious Brazilian BBQ See Devil’s Throat

Brazilian bikini, get ready for good times in Rio. Hotel (B)

Day 5: Iguassu Falls to Buzios Get ready for sun, sand & surf as we head to Buzios with its white sand & endless beaches for a couple of days of R&R. Hotel (B)

• •

•• •

Day 6: Buzios You could rise early & watch one of the amazing sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re up for it try surfing, or other activities like scuba diving.

Or simply sit back with a book, explore the town or just work on your tan with a cocktail.

Hotel (B) M Learn to surf lesson

Day 4: Iguassu Falls We’ll cross back into Argentina & visit their side of Iguassu Falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat. The day is all yours

Day 7: Buzios to Rio de Janeiro Home to the world’s largest Carnival celebration, Copacabana Beach & the

Day 8: Rio de Janeiro This morning we’ll visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. We’ll give you a unique insiders-only experience of visiting a favela & seeing the contrast of how some cariocas live. Hotel (B) Entry to Christ the Redeemer for amazing city views Locally guided favela tour M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain Day 9: Rio de Janeiro Today is yours to explore this amazing city. Try hang gliding, hang on the beach and this afternoon chill on a boat cruise around Rio’s famous harbour.

Tonight, end the trip as we head out for a meal & our last night out in this amazing city!

Hotel (B,D) M Hang gliding Day 10: Depart Rio de Janeiro Our adventure ends after breakfast, when it’s time to say ‘Tchau’ (goodbye) to your travel mates. (B)

RIO CARNIVAL! FEB 28TH - MARCH 5TH, 2014 Take your trip to the next level & be part of what is considered the biggest carnival in the world!

With over two million people per day celebrating on the streets of Rio, it’s like nothing you have ever seen. We take you to all the right places at the right times, so you see all the best performances & don’t miss a beat. Witness parades bursting with revelers, floats & adornments from numerous samba schools. Live for the moments, live with no regrets & don’t miss out on this indescribable experience!

30-31 Argentina & Brazil Exp.indd 3

Travelling Early

Start Buenos Aires

Argentina & Brazil Experience 10 days 9 nights twin-share hotel accommodation (more on p.16-17)

Travelling between 21 July 2013 & 19 Jan 2014?

The tour below (BARJ) starts at 7:00am in BA & ends at 11:00am in Rio. These tours spend 3 nights in BA & 2 nights in Rio. See contiki.com/southam-experience for more.

Day 3: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls Today we fly to Puerto Iguassu then travel to the Brazilian side to see the 275 individual waterfalls that make up Iguassu. You could take a heli-flight for a different angle on the Falls, or try your luck at spotting macaws & toucans.

Tonight, sample the delicious national drink, a caipirinha.

Hotel (B) Visit Iguassu Falls

•

How much & when

?

• •

IGUASSU FALLS

Itinerary & Sightseeing

SOUTH AMERICA

Code: BARJ 2014/15 Start Buenos Aires

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Total Cost R pp*

2014 Feb Feb Mar Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Total Cost R pp*

Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec

30 21 28 18 25 16 23

29555 29555 29555 29555 29555 29555 29555

Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar

13 20 14 10 17

30439 30439 30439 30439 30439

2014

2 Feb 11 19 ✚ Feb 28 30 Apr 8 6 Apr 15 27 May 6 4 May 13 25 Jun 3 Jun 10 1 22 Jul 1 Jul 8 29 20 Jul 29 27 Aug 5 17 Aug 26 24 Sep 2 14 Sep 23

?

Start Buenos Aires

29555 29555 29555 29555 29555 29555 29555 32325 32325 32325 29555 29555 29555 29555 29555

Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec

21 12 19 9 16 7 14

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R2475.

See p.22 for details.

2 World Heritage site visited

2015 Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar

4 11 4 1 8

Travelling Early

Travelling between 29 June 2013 & 30 Nov 2013?

The tour below (RJBA) starts at 7:00am in Rio & ends at 11:00am in BA. These tours spend 3 nights in BA & 2 nights in Rio. See contiki.com/southam-experience for more.

Code: RJBA 2013 (Reverse tour) Start Rio de Janeiro

Finish Buenos Aires

Total Cost R pp*

Jul 8 Aug 12 Sep 9

29555 29555 29555

Finish Buenos Aires

Total Cost R pp*

Oct 14 Nov 11 Dec 9

29555 29555 29555

2013

2013 Jun 29 Aug 3 Aug 31

Start Rio de Janeiro

Oct 5 Nov 2 Nov 30

LA BOCA, BA

Code: RJBA 2014/15 (Reverse tour) Start Rio de Janeiro

Finish Buenos Aires

Total Cost R pp*

2014 Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

5 ✚ Mar 14 20 Mar 29 17 Apr 26 15 May 24 Jun 21 12 10 Jul 19 7 Aug 16 4 Sep 13

Start Rio de Janeiro

Finish Buenos Aires

Total Cost R pp*

Oct Nov Dec Jan

11 8 6 3

29555 29555 29555 29555

Jan 31

30439

2014 29555 29555 29555 29555 32325 32325 29555 29555

Oct Oct Nov Dec

2 30 27 25 ●

2015 Jan 22

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION HERE

➙

* Prices shown are based on

twin-share. If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement add R9725.

BARJ: Start Buenos Aires 7:00am & end Rio 11:00am.

RJBA: Start Rio 7:00am & end Buenos Aires 11:00am. ● This tour spends Xmas in Rio & New Year’s Eve in Iguassu. ✚ Tour coincides with Rio Carnival.

Tour operates during the 2014 World Cup, Brazil. See important note on p.50.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

04/04/2013 16:55

ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS Island hopper ?

Travelling Early For travel between June - December ‘13 see opposite

11 Days 1 countrY From R28199pp* R2564 per day ECUADOR

SAN CRISTOBAL

your backstage pass includes • Go local at a salsa lesson • Sunset river cruise & drinks • Galapagos BBQ feast at our favourite local spot Plus flights on map included in tour price!

Colombia

ECUADOR

QUITO 1 GALAPAGOS ISLANDS SANTA CRUZ Baltra

ISABELA

Puerto 2 VILLAMIL

Puerto Ayora 1 2 SAN CRISTOBAL Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO

Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Plane or boat

1 TENA 2 BAÑOS

ME Time ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

ME Time optionals

1 GUAYAQUIL

M Rappelling (abseiling) & canyoning (day trip) M Locally guided bike tour down the “La Ruta de las Cascadas” M San Cristobal Island guided biking adventure

Peru

did you know ...

Galapagos provided the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking theory of natural selection.

Melanie Weaver: I’ve just finished this tour. It was great.

Visit contiki.com/ecuador-galapagos-hopper 32-33 Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper.indd 2

04/04/2013 16:55

32 | 33

From the heights of volcanoes to the unexplored waters of Galapagos, this tour is a must for the lovers of the great outdoors. Whether you are snorkelling with sea lions & rays, or chilling with the Giant Galapagos Tortoise, this adventure is epic!

Day 1: Start Quito Welcome to Ecuador’s capital, Quito! Meet up with your Contiki Team & group before exploring.

Your expert guide will teach you all about this city & the history of the Inca & Spanish invasion before the city’s best views at Panecillo. Later, visit the Equator line & wander between the two hemispheres. Tonight, head out for dinner with the group.

Hotel (D) Locally guided tour to see the Palace of Congress, Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral Visit Panecillo lookout Visit the Equator & Inti Ñan Museum

PINNACLE ROCK, Galapagos Islands

Day 2: Quito to Tena It’s out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views en route. A thermal pool swim & a hummingbird sanctuary stop are the perfect relaxing ways to spend the day.

Hotel (B) Thermal springs swim Visit a hummingbird sanctuary

••

Day 3: Tena to Baños This morning is all about ME Time. Chill, opt to go rafting or visit an animal refuge centre before it’s back on the road to Baños, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano.

Hotel (B,D) Check out the Chimborazo region M Rafting experience

•

Day 4: Baños With a free day, explore your way & Baños goes off! Situated in a valley of waterfalls & hot springs, Baños is a hub for for travellers who love great weather, small town vibes & the great outdoors. Visit the hot springs, go horseback riding, trekking, rafting, climbing or mountain biking. Tonight, get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson.

Hotel (B) Salsa dancing lesson

•

Day 5: Baños to Guayaquil Today we’re off to discover Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city & its economic hub. This cosmopolitan city is one of Ecuador’s new hotspots, & a walk down the promenade with the city’s colourful Cerro Santa Ana district as your backdrop is essential. Tonight, set sail on a sunset river cruise with drinks.

Hotel (B) Sunset river cruise

How much & when

?

Travelling Early

Travelling between 16 June 2013 & 15 Dec 2013?

The tour below coded GYQO starts at 6:00am in Guayaquil and ends at 11:00am in Quito. This itinerary spends 2 nights in Quito & does not visit Tena.

See contiki.com/galapagos-ecuador for more.

Code: GYQO 2013 Start Guayaquil

• ••

QUITO

Itinerary & Sightseeing

SOUTH AMERICA

Finish Quito

Total Cost R pp*

2013 Jun Jul Aug Sep

Ayora we’ll check out the island’s old lava tunnels & see the incredible giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

Later, get out on the water as we head off to Isabela Island to relax for two nights.

Hotel (B,D) See famous Galapagos’ giant tortoises Visit some lava tunnels Boat ride to Isabela Island

• ••

Day 7: Isabela Island This morning we’ll walk to the Wall of Tears. On return, spot colourful fish as you snorkel the underground lava tubes (keep your eyes peeled for turtles!) This afternoon we’ll visit some marine iguanas – you might even see some penguins along the way – then later you could hike the rim of one of the world’s largest active caldera, or relax on the beach.

Hotel (B,L) ‘Panga’ boat ride adventure to spot the famous Galapagos wildlife Visit the Wall of Tears Snorkelling experience

• ••

Day 8: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island This morning we’ll head to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center to learn about the island’s natural history, before we take off to Santa Cruz Island. This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay where we finish up with a stroll along the beach & a swim.

Hotel (B) Guided tour of the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center Visit Tortuga Bay

• •

Day 9: Santa Cruz to San Cristobal Island We’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station this morning & check out the other species of tortoises & land iguanas before heading out to San Cristobal keep an eye out for bathing sea lions! This afternoon explore the island by bike. Tonight, it’s all about relaxing over drinks at one of our favourite local spots while watching the sunset. Hotel (B) Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station See the island’s famous sea lions

• •

Day 10: San Cristobal Island First up: a coastal cruise to spot native birds, before hitting Sea Lion Island in search of puffer fish & cute sea lion pups. We’ll snorkel around Kicker Rock & its famous 143m tuff cone looking out for manta rays, starfish & maybe the Galapagos shark. Later, relax on stunning Puerto Grande beach paradise, before it’s back to town for our Galapagos BBQ feast.

Hotel (B,L,D) Boat cruise & off shore bird spotting experience Visit Isla Lobos (Sea Lion Island) Explore Kicker Rock’s 143m cone Visit stunning Puerto Grande beach

• • • •

Day 11: San Cristobal to Guayaquil There’s time to relax this morning or take in the beauty of the island on a kayak tour before heading back to the mainland where your tour ends on arrival. (B)

16 21 18 22

Start Guayaquil

Finish Quito

Total Cost R pp*

2013 Jun Jul Aug Oct

26 31 28 2

28199 28199 28199 28199

Oct 20 Oct 30 Nov 17 Nov 27 Dec 15 ● Dec 25

28199 28199 28199

Finish Guayaquil

Total Cost R pp*

2014 Jan Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug

23 3 31 28 26 23 21 18

2 13 10 8 5 3 31 28

28199 28199 28199 28199 28199 28199 28199 28199

10 nights twin-share hotel accommodation (more on p.16-17) 16 meals: 10 breakfasts (B) 2 lunches (L) 4 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides 2 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van

Local taxes & service charges (excluding Galapagos.

See price panel)

Start Quito

Finish Guayaquil

Total Cost R pp*

2014 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug

What’s Included:

Sightseeing tours of all major areas

Code: QOGY 2014/15 Start Quito

Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper 11 days

Sep Oct Nov Dec

15 13 10 8

25 23 20 18

28199 28199 28199 28199

Jan 18 Feb 12

29045 29045

Sep Oct Nov Dec

SAVE Pay early & save up to R2349.

See p.22 for details.

2

2015 Jan 8 Feb 2

$

World Heritage sites visited

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement add R4745.

Start Quito 7:00am & end Guayaquil 11:00am.

Note: The Galapagos Islands have a compulsory US$100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park, a US$10 INGALA fee & a US$5 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival. Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations. ● This tour spends Xmas in San Cristobal.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

BAÑOS

•

Day 6: Guayaquil to Isabela Island Today we fly to Santa Cruz Island. Before arriving in Puerto

32-33 Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper.indd 3

04/04/2013 16:56

THE ADVENTURER

?

Travelling Early For travel between June ‘13 & February ‘14 see opposite

25 Days 3 countries From R65299pp* R2612 per day PERU ARGENTINA BRAZIL

IGUASSU FALLS

your backstage pass includes BRAZIL

• City tour of Arequipa visiting the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco, La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • Brazilian BBQ feast in Iguassu • Boat cruise in Rio • Rio city tour & favela tour • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus Contiki Special Stays

PERU

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu)

2 Lima

Rainforest

AMAZON LODGE 1

1

INCA TRAIL

Ollantaytambo Andes

PUERTO MALDONADO 1

1 SACRED VALLEY

CUSCO 4

Coast

Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1

Bolivia

PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 2

• Amazon Jungle Lodge • Colca Canyon Lodge

1 AREQUIPA Airport

BUZIOS 2

RIO DE 3 JANEIRO Paraguay

Plus flights on map included in tour price!

ME Time ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

2 IGUASSU FALLS

ARGENTINA BRAZIL

ME Time optionals M Mountain biking adventure M Learn to surf lesson M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain

Uruguay

3 BUENOS AIRES

Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe

play ...

The token throwing Peruvian game Sapo.

Keep your eyes peeled for these large bronze toads (the Sapo) & give it a go, you’ll love it.

@ jennWHYfer Favelas: Most eye-opening experience of the trip. #travel #contiki #riodejaneiro #brazil #favelas Visit contiki.com/southam-adventurer

34-35 The Adventurer.indd 2

04/04/2013 16:56

34 | 35

The ultimate trip for those that love to explore, this trip has Peru, Argentina & Brazil covered. From jungles, cool locals & mind-blowing sights, to waterfalls, beaches & big cities, no day is quite like the next.

Day 1: Arrive Lima. Meet your Contiki team & group this morning before checking out the city sights. Made up of 43 districts with their own flair, with a free afternoon, get out & explore! Hotel (D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores Day 2: Lima to Arequipa.

We fly to Peru’s second largest city, the “White City” of Arequipa. Uncover the city’s history on a walking tour.

Hotel (B) City walking tour Visit the Santa Catalina Convent & the Plaza de Armas Day 3: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. We visit the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve & Colca Canyon. We’ll stop for a hot springs swim & night at our rustic lodge.

Contiki Special Stay (B,L,D) See wild vicuña See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes Hot spring dip Day 4: Colca Canyon to Puno. This morning try & spot the Andean condor. Later experience the mountains & lakes of the Andes along the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Hotel (B) See the huge Colca Canyon Visit Cruz del Condor Visit Yanque Day 5: Puno. Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising the lake.

Experience the floating Taquile & Uros Islands & meet the locals. Hotel (B,D) Ride on a triciclo!

Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities Day 6: Puno to Cusco. First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins. See the last remaining two-storey Inca walls in Raqchi before reaching Cusco.

Hotel (B) Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani See the Temple of Wiracocha Day 7: Cusco. As the modern-day starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore the city on foot, before the day is yours to explore Inca buildings, shops or try some adventure activities. Hotel (B,D) City walking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral & Koricancha Day 8: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Today take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before spending a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pisac & Ollantaytambo Try some Chicha de Jora Day 9: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads

to experience today before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B) M Horse riding through the Sacred Valley

•

Day 9: Inca Trail Trek Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to our highlight Machu Picchu!

Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloudforest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our local guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.24-25 for more info.

Code: LIRJT (Reverse Code: RJLIT)

••

•• • • •• • •• • • •

•• • •

34-35 The Adventurer.indd 3

Day 10: Machu Picchu to Cusco. Be among the first to enter Machu Picchu for sunrise.

Learn more as you tour with your guide then explore in your own time before returning to base. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar Day 11: Cusco. Feed your adrenaline urges with activities like mountain biking & rafting.

Hotel (B) Day 12: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then take to the shores with a flashlight to spot an Amazonian alligator!

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,L,D) Visit the Infierno community Puerto Maldonado city tour Canopy hike for amazing jungle views Day 13: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Board a simple catamaran & keep your eyes peeled for wildlife before relaxing. Hotel (B,L,D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat cruise M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata River or jungle canopy climb Day 14: Puerto Maldonado to Lima. Back in Lima you could explore the areas of Miraflores, Larcomar Mall or Parque Kennedy, before maybe sipping your last Pisco Sour.

Hotel (B) Day 15: Lima to Buenos Aires. Farewell Peru…next up, Argentina! Hotel (B) Day 16: Buenos Aires.

Hola! This city is filled with culture & diversity. There’s a love of tango, music, art & football – not to mention worldrenowned beef & red wine. This morning, get out & experience the iconic city spots like San

•

• •• •

Telmo & La Boca. Tonight, get ready to tango with the locals at a dance lesson & show.

Hotel (B,D) Visit the neighbourhoods of San Telmo, La Boca, Puerto Madero, Recoleta, Palermo Chio & Palermo Soho Tango lesson, show & dinner Day 17: Buenos Aires. The day is all yours! You could catch a football game, drink champagne at a polo match, hit the shops or pay a visit to the historic Gran Café Tortoni for coffee. Tonight, experience BA by night. Hotel (B) M Argentinian culinary experience Day 18: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls. Today we fly to Puerto Iguassu then travel to the Brazilian side to see the 275 individual waterfalls. You could take a heli-flight for a different angle, or try your luck at spotting macaws & toucans.

Tonight, sample the national drink, a caipirinha. Hotel (B) Visit Iguassu Falls M Helicopter flight over the Falls Day 19: Iguassu Falls. We’ll cross back into Argentina & visit their side of the Falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat.

The day is all yours! Try a speed boat ride to feel the spray of the Falls, or go for a swim the hotel. Tonight, try delicious Brazilian BBQ. Hotel (B,D) Visit Iguassu Falls Taste delicious Brazilian BBQ See Devil’s Throat Day 20: Iguassu Falls to Buzios. Get ready for sun, sand & surf in Buzios with its white sand & endless beaches.

Hotel (B) Day 21: Buzios. You could try surfing, or maybe scuba diving.

Or sit back with a book, explore town or just work on your tan with a cocktail. Hotel (B) Day 22: Buzios to Rio de Janeiro. Home to the world’s largest carnival celebration, Copacabana Beach & the Brazilian bikini, get ready for good times! Hotel (B) Day 23: Rio de Janeiro.

This morning we’ll visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. We’ll give you a unique insiders-only experience of visiting a favela & seeing how some cariocas live.

Hotel (B) Entry to Christ the Redeemer for amazing city views Locally guided favela tour Day 24: Rio de Janeiro.

Today is yours to explore this amazing city. Try hang gliding, hang on the beach and this afternoon chill on a boat cruise around Rio’s harbour. Tonight, we head out for a meal & our last night out. Hotel (B,D) M Hang gliding Day 25: Depart Rio de Janeiro. Our adventure ends after breakfast, when it’s time to say ‘Tchau’ (goodbye) to your travel mates. (B)

• •

•

•• •

• •

MACHU PICCHU

Itinerary & Sightseeing

SOUTH AMERICA

How much & when

?

Travelling between 6 Jul 2013 & 18 Jan 2014?

The tour below features 4 nights in Buenos Aires & 2 nights in Rio. See contiki.com/southam-adventurer for more.

Code: LIRJ 2013/14

2013 Jul 6 Jul 20 Aug 3 Aug 24 Sep 7 Sep 28 Oct 5

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Oct Oct

65299 65299 65299 65299 65299 65299 65299

66669 66669 66669 66669 66669 66669 66669

30 13 27 17 1 22 29

Start Lima

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

2013 Nov 2 Nov 26 Nov 30 Dec 24 Dec 21 ● Jan 14

65299 66669 65299 66669 65299 66669

2014 Jan 4 Jan 18

65299 66669 65299 66669

Jan 28 Feb 11

Code: LIRJ/LIRJT 2014/15 Start Lima

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Feb Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep

65299 65299 65299 65299 65299 65299 68069 68069 68069 65299 65299 65299 65299 65299

n/a 66669 66669 66669 66669 66669 69439 69439 69439 66669 66669 66669 66669 66669

2014 Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan Jan

65299 65299 65299 65299 65299 65299 65299 65299 65299

66669 66669 66669 66669 66669 66669 66669 66669 66669

2014

4 ★ 15 22 12 19 10 17 7 14 5 12 2 9 30

?

Start Lima

28 8 15 6 13 3 10 1 8 29 5 26 2 23

Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec

6 27 4 25 1 22 29 20 ▲ 27 ◆

30 21 28 18 25 16 23 13 20

Feb 13 Mar 10 Mar 17

67259 68629 67259 n/a 67259 68629

Travelling Early

The tour below features a reverse itinerary with 2 nights in Rio & 3 nights in Buenos Aires. See contiki.com/ southam-adventurer for more.

Code: RJLI/RJLIT 2013/14 (Reverse tour)

2013 Jun 29 Aug 3 Aug 31 Oct 5 Nov 2

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

65299 65299 65299 65299 65299

66669 66669 66669 66669 66669

23 27 24 29 26

Start Rio de Janeiro

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

2013 Nov 30

Dec 24

65299 66669

2014 Feb 1

Feb 25

65299 n/a

Code: RJLI/RJLIT 2014/15 (Reverse tour) Start Rio de Janeiro

2014 Mar 5 ✚ Mar 20 Apr 17 May 15 Jun 12 Jul 10 Aug 7 Sep 4

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep

65299 65299 65299 65299 68069 68069 65299 65299

66669 66669 66669 66669 69439 69439 66669 66669

29 13 11 8 6 3 31 28

Start Rio de Janeiro

Trekking option - 37 meals: 24 breakfasts (B) 4 lunches (L) 9 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides 1 international & 5 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Local taxes & service charges

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R5070.

See p.22 for details.

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

2014 Oct 2 Oct 30 Nov 27 Dec 25 ◗

Oct Nov Dec Jan

65299 65299 65299 65299

66669 66669 66669 66669

2015 Jan 22 Feb 19

Feb 15 Mar 15

26 23 21 18

67259 n/a 67259 68629

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION HERE

World Heritage sites visited

* Prices shown are based on twin-

Travelling between 29 Jun 2013 & 1 Feb 2014?

Start Rio de Janeiro

36 meals: 24 breakfasts (B) 3 lunches (L) 9 dinners (D)

6

2015 Jan 20 Feb 14 Feb 21

What’s Included: 24 nights accommodation: 22 nights in twin-share hotels 2 nights in Special Stay experiences (more on p.16-17)

Travelling Early

Start Lima

The Adventurer 25 days

➙

share. If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement (tour only) add R14919.

Single room supplement (tour + Inca Trail) add R14919.

LIRJ/LIRJT: Start Lima 8:00am & end Rio 11:00am.

RJLI/RJLIT: Start Rio 7:00am & end Lima 6:00pm.

Note: The reverse itinerary spends 2 nights in Buenos Aires & 3 nights in Lima.

Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

Note: The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February. ● Tour spends Xmas in Puno & NYE in Cusco. ▲ Tour spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Jungle Lodge. ◆ Tour spends New Year’s Eve in Puno. ◗ Tour spends Xmas in Buzios & NYE in Iguassu Falls. ✚ Tour coincides with Rio Carnival. ★ Tour coincides with Rio Carnival, no Inca Trail.

Tour operates during the 2014 World Cup, Brazil. See important note on p.50.

04/04/2013 16:57

THE EXPLORER

?

Travelling Early For travel between July ‘13 & January ‘14 see opposite

19 Days 3 countries From R54645pp* R2877 per day PERU ARGENTINA BRAZIL

MACHU PICCHU

your backstage pass includes

BRAZIL PERU

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu)

1 Lima

AMAZON LODGE 1

1

INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo Andes

• Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • Brazilian BBQ feast in Iguassu • Boat cruise in Rio • City tour of Rio • Rio favela tour • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue

Rainforest

CUSCO 3

PUERTO MALDONADO 1

1 SACRED VALLEY Bolivia

Coast

Plus Contiki Special Stay BUZIOS Airport 2 RIO DE 3 JANEIRO

• Amazon Jungle Lodge Plus flights on map included in tour price!

ME Time

Paraguay

2 IGUASSU FALLS

ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

ARGENTINA BRAZIL

see ...

Football (soccer)! The passion here is like nowhere else, so see if a game is on & get into the frenzy!

ME Time optionals M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata River M Visit to the gateway of Tigre’s River Delta Uruguay

BUENOS 3 AIRES

Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe

Jessika Braga: Was in the Amazon in Peru last summer, it was an amazing experience

Visit contiki.com/southam-explorer 36-37 The Explorer.indd 2

04/04/2013 16:59

36 | 37

Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Arrive Cusco. As the modern-day starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore this ancient city on foot, then the afternoon’s yours.

Head out & explore - from Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops to boutiques & delicious cuisine & adrenaline activities, there’s loads to experience. Hotel (D) City walking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral & Koricancha

••

Day 2: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Today we explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before spending the night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pisac & Ollantaytambo Try some local Chicha de Jora

• •

Day 3: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads to experience today before we take the train to Aguas Calientes this afternoon. Hotel (B) M Horse riding through the Sacred Valley Day 3: Inca Trail Trek Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to our highlight Machu Picchu!

Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloudforest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our local guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.24-25 for more info.

Code: CURJT Day 4: Machu Picchu to Cusco. Wake early & be among the first to enter Machu Picchu to see the sun rising above the mountain tops. Learn more about the sites as you tour with your guide, then spend some time exploring before returning to base. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar

•

Day 5: Cusco. Feed your adrenaline urges with activities like mountain biking & rafting.

Get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife, try a “Cerveza Cusquena”, dance the night away & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club. Hotel (B)

36-37 The Explorer.indd 3

M Whitewater rafting on the Urubamba River Day 6: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. After a jungle hike to the canopy tower for endless jungle views, take to the shores with a flashlight to spot caiman, an Amazonian alligator!

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,L,D) Visit the Infierno community Puerto Maldonado city tour Canopy hike for amazing jungle views

•• •

Day 7: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Board a simple catamaran & keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, like the giant otter, before spending the afternoon relaxing. Hotel (B,L,D) Locally guided catamaran boat excursion

•

Day 8: Puerto Maldonado to Lima. On arrival in Lima, you could explore the areas of Miraflores, Larcomar Mall or Parque Kennedy for amazing views overlooking the Pacific Ocean, before maybe sipping your last Pisco Sour. Hotel (B) Day 9: Lima to Buenos Aires. Say ‘adios’ to Lima & ‘hola’ Buenos Aires! This cosmopolitan city is filled with culture & diversity in everything from buildings to its people. As the birthplace of tango there’s a love of music, art, dance & football – not to mention world-renowned beef & red wine. Hotel (B) Day 10: Buenos Aires.

This morning, meet up with your Tour Manager & group & get out & experience the iconic city spots like San Telmo & La Boca. Tonight, get ready to tango with the locals as you learn all the tricks at a dance lesson & show.

Hotel (B,D) Visit the neighbourhoods of San Telmo, La Boca, Puerto Madero, Recoleta, Palermo Chio & Palermo Soho Tango lesson, show & dinner

• •

Day 11: Buenos Aires.

The day is all yours! You could catch a football game, drink champagne at a polo match, hit the shops or pay a visit to the historic Gran Café Tortoni for a café con leche for some people watching. Tonight, head out to experience BA by night.

Hotel (B) M Argentinian culinary experience Day 12: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls. Today we fly to Puerto Iguassu then travel to the Brazilian side to see the 275 individual waterfalls that make

up Iguassu. You could take a heli-flight for a different angle on the Falls, or try your luck at spotting macaws & toucans.

Tonight, sample the delicious national drink, a caipirinha.

Hotel (B) Visit Iguassu Falls M Helicopter flight over the Falls

•

SacsayhuamAn, CUSCO

Want a taste of Peru, Argentina & Brazil? This is it! Follow Incan foosteps in Machu Picchu & check out the jungle action in the Amazon.

Dive into BA’s cool vibes, before its all beaches & bikinis in Buzios & the fabulous home of Carnival, Rio.

How much & when

?

Travelling Early

Travelling between 12 July 2013 & 24 Jan 2014?

The tour below coded CURJ/CURJT starts at 8:00am in Cusco & ends at 11:00am in Rio. These tours spend 4 nights in Buenos Aires & 2 nights in Rio. See contiki.com/ southam-explorer for more.

Day 13: Iguassu Falls. We’ll cross back into Argentina & visit their side of Iguassu Falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat. The day is all yours to experience the Falls. Try a speed boat ride to feel the spray of the Falls, or go for a swim back at the hotel.

Tonight we have tasty Brazilian BBQ. Hotel (B,D) Visit Iguassu Falls Taste delicious Brazilian BBQ See Devil’s Throat

Code: CURJ/CURJT 2013/14

Day 14: Iguassu Falls to Buzios. Get ready for sun, sand & surf as we head to Buzios with its white sand & endless beaches for a couple of days of R&R. Hotel (B)

Code: CURJ/CURJT 2014/15

•• •

Day 15: Buzios. You could rise early & watch one of the amazing sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re up for it try surfing, or other activities like scuba diving. Or simply sit back with a book, explore the town or just work on your tan with a cocktail.

Hotel (B) M Learn to surf lesson Day 16: Buzios to Rio de Janeiro. Home to the world’s largest carnival celebration, Copacabana Beach & the Brazilian bikini, get ready for good times in Rio. Hotel (B) Day 17: Rio de Janeiro.

This morning we’ll visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. We’ll give you a unique insiders-only experience of visiting a favela & seeing the contrast of how some cariocas live. Hotel (B) Entry to Christ the Redeemer for amazing city views Locally guided favela tour M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain

• •

Day 18: Rio de Janeiro.

Today is yours to explore this amazing city. Try hang gliding, hang on the beach and this afternoon chill on a boat cruise around Rio famous harbour.

Tonight, end the trip as we head out for a meal & our last night out in this amazing city!

Hotel (B,D) M Hang gliding

Start Cusco

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Oct Oct

54645 54645 54645 54645 54645 54645 54645

56015 56015 56015 56015 56015 56015 56015

2013 Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Oct

12 26 9 30 13 4 11

Start Cusco

10 21 28 18 25 16 23 13 20 11 18 8 15 5

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

The Explorer 19 days What’s Included: 18 nights accommodation: 17 nights in twin-share hotels 1 night Special Stay experience (more on p.16-17) 26 meals: 18 breakfasts (B) 2 lunches (L) 6 dinners (D) Trekking option - 27 meals: 18 breakfasts (B) 3 lunches (L) 6 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager

2013 30 13 27 17 1 22 29

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Feb Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep

54645 54645 54645 54645 54645 54645 57415 57415 57415 54645 54645 54645 54645 54645

n/a 56015 56015 56015 56015 56015 58785 58785 58785 56015 56015 56015 56015 56015

2014 Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep

Start Cusco

SOUTH AMERICA

Nov 8 Nov 26 Dec 6 Dec 24 Dec 27 ● Jan 14

54645 56015 54645 56015 54645 56015

2014 Jan 10 Jan 24

Start Cusco

Jan 28 Feb 11

54645 56015 54645 56015

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan

30 21 28 18 25 16 23 13

54645 54645 54645 54645 54645 54645 54645 54645

56015 56015 56015 56015 56015 56015 56015 56015

Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec

12 3 10 31 7 28 5 26 ▲

2015 Jan 2 Jan 26 Feb 20 Feb 27

Jan Feb Mar Mar

20 13 10 17

56285 56285 56285 56285

57655 57655 n/a 57655

1 international & 4 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Local taxes & service charges

$

2014 28 8 15 6 13 3 10 1 8 29 5 26 2 23

English speaking local guides

SAVE Pay early & save up to R4195.

See p.22 for details.

5 World Heritage sites visited

HAPPY HOUR

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement (tour only) add R14179.

Single room supplement (tour + Inca Trail) add R14179.

Start Cusco 8:00am & end Rio 11:00am.

Please note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

Please note: The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February. ● Tour spends New Year’s Eve in Cusco. ▲ Tour spends New Year’s Eve in Jungle Lodge.

Tour operates during the 2014 World Cup, Brazil.

See important notes on p.50.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

COPACABANA BEACH, RIO

Day 19: Depart Rio de Janeiro. Our adventure ends after breakfast, when it’s time to say ‘Tchau’ (goodbye) to your travel mates. (B)

04/04/2013 16:59

GALAPAGOS & ANDES 26 Days 2 countries From R65175pp* R2507 per day ECUADOR PERU

MACHU PICCHU

your backstage pass includes • Go local at a salsa lesson • Sunset river cruise & drinks • Galapagos BBQ feast at our favourite local spot • City tour of Arequipa visiting the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ECUADOR

QUITO 1

SANTA CRUZ

Puerto

1 TENA 2 BAÑOS

VILLAMIL VIL LLAMIL

2

PACIFIC OCEAN

BAQUERIZO MORENO

Plus Contiki Special Stays • Amazon Jungle Lodge • Colca Canyon Lodge

GUAYAQUIL

Plus flights on map included in tour price!

PERU

ME Time ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

Rainforest

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) 1 2 Lima

AMAZON LODGE 1

Ollantaytambo INCA TRAIL 1 PUERTO SACRED VALLEY 1 MALDONADO PERU CUSCO 4

ME Time optionals

Coast

M Rappelling (abseiling) & canyoning day trip M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata River or Jungle Canopy climb M San Cristobal Island guided biking adventure

Andes Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1 PACIFIC OCEAN

Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe

2 PUNO/LAKE TITICACA

1 AREQUIPA

PACIFIC PA OCEAN OC

Boliv

did you know ...

Ecuador’s flag is yellow for the sun, blue for sky & sea, & red is the blood lost for their independence.

@Jenni Berg: Wishing I was back in #peru #surf house ! After our amazing #contiki it was pretty sweet!

Visit contiki.com/galapagos-andes

38-39 Galapagos & Andes 26 Days.indd 2

04/04/2013 17:00

38 | 39

Experience THREE of the most beautiful spots on earth rolled into one trip.

Trail finders will be right at home on this journey packed with culture, heritage, water & wildlife.

SOUTH AMERICA Galapagos & Andes 26 days

Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Start Quito. Welcome to Ecuador’s capital, Quito!

Meet up with your Contiki team & group before exploring. Your expert guide will teach you all about this city & the history of the Inca & Spanish invasion before the city’s best views at Panecillo. Later, visit the Equator line & wander between the two hemispheres. Tonight, head out for dinner with the group.

Hotel (D) Locally guided tour to see the Palace of Congress, Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral Visit Panecillo lookout Visit the Equator & Inti Ñan Museum Day 2: Quito to Tena. It’s out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views en route. A thermal pool swim & a hummingbird sanctuary stop are the perfect relaxing ways to spend the day. Hotel (B) Thermal springs swim Visit a hummingbird sanctuary Day 3: Tena to Baños. This morning is all about ME Time.

Chill, opt to go rafting or visit an animal refuge centre before it’s back on the road to Baños, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Hotel (B) Check out the Chimborazo region M Rafting experience Day 4: Baños. With a free day, explore your way & Baños goes off! Situated in a valley of waterfalls & hot springs, Baños is a hub for travellers who love great weather, small town vibes & the great outdoors. Visit the hot springs, go horseback riding, trekking, rafting, climbing or mountain biking. Tonight, get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson. Hotel (B) Salsa dancing lesson Day 5: Baños to Guayaquil.

Today we’re off to discover Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city & its economic hub. This cosmopolitan city is one of Ecuador’s new hotspots, and a walk down the promenade with the city’s colourful Cerro Santa Ana district as your backdrop is essential. Tonight, set sail on a sunset river cruise with drinks.

Hotel (B) Sunset river cruise Day 6: Guayaquil to Isabela Island. Today we fly to Santa Cruz Island. Before arriving in Puerto Ayora we’ll check out the island’s old lava tunnels & see the giant tortoises. Later, we are on a boat to to start our Galapagos adventure.

Hotel (B,D) See famous Galapagos’ giant tortoises Visit some lava tunnels Boat ride to Isabela Island Day 7: Isabela Island.

This morning we’ll walk to the Wall of Tears. On return, spot colourful fish as you snorkel the underground lava tubes (keep

• ••

••

•

•

•

• ••

38-39 Galapagos & Andes 26 Days.indd 3

your eyes peeled for turtles!)

This afternoon we’ll visit some marine iguanas – you might even see some penguins along the way – then later you could hike the rim of one of the world’s largest active caldera, or relax on the beach. Hotel (B,L) ‘Panga’ boat ride adventure to spot the famous Galapagos wildlife Visit the Wall of Tears Snorkelling experience Day 8: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island. This morning we’ll learn about the island’s natural history at the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, before we take off Santa Cruz Island. This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay for stroll along the beach & a swim. Hotel (B) Day 9: Santa Cruz to San Cristobal Island. We’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station this morning & check out the other species of tortoises & land iguanas before heading out to San Cristobal - keep an eye out for bathing sea lions! This afternoon explore the island by bike. Tonight, it’s all about relaxing over drinks at one of our favourite local spots while watching the sunset.

Hotel (B) Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station See the island’s famous sea lions M Island biking adventure Day 10: San Cristobal Island. First up: a coastal cruise to spot native birds, before hitting Sea Lion Island in search of puffer fish & cute sea lion pups. We’ll snorkel around Kicker Rock & its famous 143m tuff cone looking out for manta rays, starfish & maybe the Galapagos shark. Later, relax on stunning Puerto Grande beach paradise, before it’s back to town for our Galapagos BBQ feast. Hotel (B,L,D) Boat cruise & off shore bird spotting experience Visit Isla Lobos (Sea Lion Island) Explore Kicker Rock’s 143m cone Visit stunning Puerto Grande beach Day 11: San Cristobal to Guayaquil. There’s time to relax this morning & soak up those last rays. Hotel (B) Day 12: Guayaquil to Lima.

Today we fly to Lima & relax before our next adventure.

Hotel (B) Day 13: Lima. We’ll take a city tour to uncover the city sights, with 43 districts with their own flair, there’s no shortage of things to do. Hotel (B) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores Day 14: Lima to Arequipa.

We fly to Peru’s second largest city, the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour.

Hotel (B)

• ••

• •

• • • •

•

••

City walking tour Visit the Santa Catalina Convent & the Plaza de Armas Day 15: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. We drive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve (home to the elusive vicuña) on our way to the Colca Canyon. We visit the village of Chivay for a relaxing hot springs swim & a night at our rustic lodge.

Contiki Special Stay (B,L,D) See wild vicuña See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip Day 16: Colca Canyon to Puno. This morning we visit the Colca Canyon & we’ll try to spot the Andean condor.

Later, experience the majestic mountains & lakes of the Andes along the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Hotel (B) See the massive Colca Canyon Visit Cruz del Condor Visit Yanque Day 17: Puno. Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising Lake Titicaca to experience the island of Taquile & the floating Uros Islands. Experience the unique cultures & way of life here as we visit locals & see their handmade crafts & famous textiles. Hotel (B,D) Ride on a triciclo!

Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities Day 18: Puno to Cusco. First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins, where there’s a chance to buy their famous artistic ceramic bulls. See the last remaining two-storey Inca walls in Raqchi before reaching the heart of the ancient Incan empire, Cusco. Hotel (B) Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani See the Temple of Wiracocha Day 19: Cusco. The modernday starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore this ancient city on foot, then the afternoon’s yours. Head out & explore - from Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops to boutiques, delicious cuisine & adrenaline activities, there’s loads to experience. Hotel (B,D) City walking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro Market Day 20: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Today we explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before spending a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pisac & Ollantaytambo Try some local Chicha de Jora

•• • •

•• •

•• •

• •

••

• •

What’s Included: Day 21: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes.

Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads to experience today before we take the train to Aguas Calientes this afternoon.

Hotel (B) M Horse riding through the Sacred Valley Day 21: Inca Trail Trek.

Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to our highlight Machu Picchu!

Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloudforest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our local guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.24-25 for more info.

Code: QOLIT Day 22: Aguas Calientes to Cusco. Wake early & be among the first to enter Machu Picchu to see the sun rising above the mountain tops. Learn more about Machu Picchu as you tour with your guide, then spend some time exploring in your own time before returning to base.

Hotel (B)

•

Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar Day 23: Cusco. Feed your adrenaline urges with activities like mountain biking & rafting. Get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife, try a “Cerveza Cusquena” & dance the night away & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club!

Hotel (B) Day 24: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle.

You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then take to the shores with a flashlight to spot caiman, an Amazonian alligator!

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,L,D) Visit the Infierno community Puerto Maldonado city tour Canopy hike for amazing jungle views Day 25: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Board a simple catamaran & keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like the giant otter, before spending the afternoon relaxing. Hotel (B,L,D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip Day 26: Puerto Maldonado to Lima.

Your tour ends on arrival in Lima, where it’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your travel mates. (B)

• • •

•

Please note: Do not book flights before 9:00pm.

25 nights accommodation: 23 nights in twin-share hotels 2 nights Special Stay experience (more on p.16-17) 38 meals: 25 breakfasts (B) 5 lunches (L) 8 dinners (D) Trekking option - 39 meals: 25 breakfasts (B) 6 lunches (L) 8 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides 1 international & 5 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Local taxes & service charges

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R5225.

See p.22 for details.

6 World Heritage sites visited

GALAPAGOS WILDLIFE

How much & when Code: QOLI/QOLIT 2014/15 Start Quito

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct

65175 65175 65175 65175 65175 65175 65175 65175

66545 66545 66545 66545 66545 66545 66545 66545

2014 Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

3 31 28 26 23 21 18 15

Start Quito

Finish Lima

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

2014 28 25 23 20 18 15 12 10

Oct 13 Nov 7 Nov 10 Dec 5 Dec 8 ● Jan 2

65175 66545 65175 66545 65175 66545

2015 Jan 8 Feb 2

Feb 2 Feb 27

67129 68499 67129 n/a

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement (tour only) add R9449.

Single room supplement (tour + Inca Trail) add R9449.

Start Quito 7:00am & end Lima 6:00pm.

Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

Note: The Galapagos Islands have a compulsory US$100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park, a US$10 INGALA fee & a US$5 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival. Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations. ● Tour spends Xmas in Puno & NYE in the Amazon.

LOCAL COLOUR IN PISAC

04/04/2013 17:00

THE LATIN QUEST 37 Days 4 countries From R98999pp* R2676 per day ECUADOR PERU ARGENTINA BRAZIL RIO DE JANEIRO

your backstage pass includes

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

QUITO 1

SANTA CRUZ ISABELA

Puerto 2 VILLAMIL

Puerto Ayora 1

SAN CRISTOBAL

2 Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO

TENA 1 ECUADOR 2 BAÑOS

GUAYAQUIL 2

PACIFIC OCEAN

Flight to Lima

• Go local at a salsa lesson • Sunset river cruise & drinks • Galapagos BBQ feast at our favourite local spot • City tour of Arequipa visiting the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • Brazilian BBQ feast in Iguassu • Guided Favela tour, boat cruise & city tour in Rio • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus Contiki Special Stays • Amazon Jungle Lodge • Colca Canyon Lodge

Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe

Paraguay

Airport

RIO DE 3 JANEIRO

2 IGUASSU SU FALLS Flight from Guayaquil

3 ARGENTINA

BRAZIL

Lima

Rainforest

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) 1

AMAZON LODGE 1

INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo

SACRED VALLEY 1 PERU Coast

1 PUERTO MALDONADO

CUSCO 4 Andes Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1

PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 2

1 AREQUIPA

BUENOS AIRES 3

Uruguay

BUZIOS 2

Plus flights on map included in tour price!

ME Time ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

Give it a try ...

Ceviche is a hugely popular dish around these parts.

Citrus marinated raw fish with salt & seasoning… refreshingly healthy.

ME Time optionals M Rappelling (abseiling) & canyoning day trip M Rafting

Heath Haigh: Alpaca steaks in Peru are the best!

Visit contiki.com/latin-quest

40-41 Latin Quest 37 Days.indd 2

04/04/2013 17:01

ZIPLINING IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE

Do it all, experience everything & make the most of this unbelievable journey. From the bustling Rio streets to quiet ancient temples, live volcanoes & beautiful beaches, you’ll find that paradise doesn’t exist in just one place.

Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Start Quito. Hola Quito! Meet your group before exploring. Your expert guide will teach you all about this city, its past & then check out views at Panecillo. Later, visit the Equator line before dinner. Hotel (D) Locally guided tour including the Palace of Congress, Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral Visit Panecillo lookout Visit the Equator & Inti Ñan Museum Day 2: Quito to Tena.

Goodbye city & welcome to the jungle, with spectacular views en route, plus a thermal pool swim & hummingbird sanctuary stop on the way. Hotel (B) Thermal springs swim Visit a hummingbird sanctuary Day 3: Tena to Baños. This morning is all about ME Time.

Chill, go rafting or visit an animal refuge. Then we head to Baños, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Hotel (B,D) Check out the Chimborazo region M Rafting adventure Day 4: Baños. With a free day, explore Baños your way!

Tonight we get a lesson in the art of salsa. Hotel (B) Salsa dancing lesson Day 5: Baños to Guayaquil.

Today we head to Guayaquil.

A walk down the promenade is essential. Tonight, set sail on a sunset river cruise with drinks.

Hotel (B) Sunset river cruise Day 6: Guayaquil to Isabela Island. Today we fly to Santa Cruz Island. Before arriving in Puerto Ayora we’ll check out the island’s old lava tunnels & see the giant tortoises. Later, we are on a boat to start our Galapagos adventure. Hotel (B,D) See famous Galapagos’ giant tortoises Visit some lava tunnels Boat ride to Isabela Island Day 7: Isabela Island.

This morning we’ll walk to the Wall of Tears. On return, spot colourful fish as you snorkel the underground lava tubes (keep your eyes peeled for turtles!)

This afternoon we’ll visit some marine iguanas – you might even see some penguins along the way – then later you could hike the rim of one of the world’s largest active caldera, or relax on the beach. Hotel (B,L) ‘Panga’ boat ride adventure to spot the famous Galapagos wildlife Visit the Wall of Tears Snorkelling experience Day 8: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island.

This morning we’ll learn about the island’s natural history at the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, before we take off Santa Cruz Island.

This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay for a stroll along the beach & a swim. Hotel (B) Day 9: Santa Cruz to San Cristobal Island. We’ll visit

• •• •• • • •

• ••

• ••

40-41 Latin Quest 37 Days.indd 3

the Charles Darwin Research Station this morning & check out the tortoises & land iguanas before heading out to San Cristobal! This afternoon explore the island by bike before watching the sunset. Hotel (B) Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station See the island’s famous sea lions M Guided biking Day 10: San Cristobal Island. First up: a coastal cruise to spot native birds, before hitting Sea Lion Island in search of sea lion pups. We’ll snorkel around Kicker Rock’s 143m tuff cone looking out for manta rays, starfish & maybe the Galapagos shark. Later, relax on the beach, before a BBQ feast.

Hotel (B,L,D) Boat cruise & off shore bird spotting experience Visit Isla Lobos (Sea Lion Island) Explore Kicker Rock Visit Puerto Grande beach Day 11: San Cristobal to Guayaquil. There’s time to relax this morning & soak up those last rays. Hotel (B) Day 12: Guayaquil to Lima.

Today we fly to Lima where we relax before our next adventure.

Hotel (B) Day 13: Lima. We’ll take a city tour to uncover the city sights.

Hotel (B) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores Day 14: Lima to Arequipa.

We fly to the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour.

Hotel (B) City walking tour Visit the Santa Catalina Convent & the Plaza de Armas Day 15: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. We drive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve on our way to the Colca Canyon. We stop for a hot springs swim before a night at our rustic lodge.

Contiki Special Stay (B,L,D) See wild vicuña See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip Day 16: Colca Canyon to Puno. First up we’ll try & spot the Andean condor. Later, experience the Andes along the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Hotel (B) See the massive Colca Canyon Visit Cruz del Condor Visit Yanque Day 17: Puno. Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising Lake Titicaca to the island of Taquile & the floating Uros Islands. Meet locals & see their handmade crafts. Hotel (B,D) Ride on a triciclo!

Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities

• •

• • ••

• ••

•• • • • •• •• •

Day 18: Puno to Cusco.

First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins. See the Inca walls in Raqchi & then the ancient Incan empire, Cusco. Hotel (B) Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani See the Temple of Wiracocha Day 19: Cusco. We head to Machu Picchu, then the afternoon’s yours. Explore Inca buildings, or try local food or adrenaline activities. Hotel (B,D) City walking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro Market Day 20: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Today we explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the Pisac & Ollantaytambo ruins Try some local Chicha de Jora Day 21: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads on offer, before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B) M Horse riding through the Sacred Valley

• • ••

• •

Day 21: Inca Trail Trek.

Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to our highlight Machu Picchu!

Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloudforest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our local guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.24-25 for more info.

Code: QORJT Day 22: Aguas Calientes to Cusco. Wake early & enter Machu Picchu for sunrise. Learn more about Machu Picchu on a tour, then explore. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar Day 23: Cusco. Why not start the day mountain biking & rafting? Then get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B) Day 24: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then chill to the sound of the jungle.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,L,D) Visit the Infierno community Puerto Maldonado city tour Canopy hike for amazing jungle views Day 25: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like

•

•• •

the giant otter, before it’s back to the city. Hotel (B,L,D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip Day 26: Puerto Maldonado to Lima.

Today it’s back to Lima for our last day in Peru. Next up: red wine, steak & tango in Argentina! Hotel (B) Day 27: Lima to Buenos Aires. Today we board our flight to Argentina - it’s hola Buenos Aires! Hotel (B) Day 28: Buenos Aires.

Today you’ll experience the iconic city spots like La Boca. Tonight, get ready to tango at a lesson & show.

Hotel (B,D) City bike tour Visit the neighbourhoods of San Telmo, La Boca, Puerto Madero, Recoleta, Palermo Chio & Palermo Soho Tango lesson, show & dinner Day 29: Buenos Aires.

First we see the other half of the city on our coach tour. Then the day is yours to explore & sample BA by night! Hotel (B) M Argentinian culinary experience Day 30: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls. Today we fly to Puerto Iguassu to see the 275 individual waterfalls.

Tonight, sample the national drink, a caipirinha. Hotel (B) Visit Iguassu Falls Day 31: Iguassu Falls.

We cross back to Argentina & visit their side of the falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat. The day is all yours

•

•• •

•

& tonight we have tasty Brazilian BBQ. Hotel (B,D) Visit Iguassu Falls Try a tasty Brazilian BBQ See Devil’s Throat Day 32: Iguassu Falls to Buzios. We head to Buzios with its white sand & endless beaches. Hotel (B) Day 33: Buzios. You could rise early for the amazing sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean. There are heaps of activities to do throughout the day. Hotel (B) M Learn to surf lesson Day 34: Buzios to Rio de Janeiro. Home to the world’s largest carnival celebration, Copacabana Beach & the Brazilian bikini, get ready for good times in Rio. Hotel (B) Day 35: Rio de Janeiro.

This morning we’ll visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, then get a unique insiders-only favela experience. Hotel (B) Entry to Christ the Redeemer for amazing city views Locally guided favela tour M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain Day 36: Rio de Janeiro.

It’s free time to see this amazing city. Then chill on a boat cruise. Tonight, end the trip as we head out for a meal. Hotel (B,D) M Hang gliding Day 37: Depart Rio de Janeiro. Your adventure ends & it’s time to say ‘Tchau’ (goodbye) to your group after breakfast. (B)

•• •

• •

40 | 41

SOUTH AMERICA The Latin Quest 37 days What’s Included: 36 nights accommodation: 34 nights in twin-share hotels 2 night Special Stay experience (more on p.16-17) 53 meals: 36 breakfasts (B) 5 lunches (L) 12 dinners (D) Trekking option - 54 meals: 36 breakfasts (B) 6 lunches (L) 12 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides 3 international & 6 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Local taxes & service charges

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R7710.

See p.22 for details.

8 World Heritage sites visited

GALAPAGOS SEA LIONS

How much & when Code: QORJ/QORJT 2014/15 Start Quito

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct

98999 98999 98999 101769 98999 98999 98999 98999

100369 100369 100369 103139 100369 100369 100369 100369

2014 Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

3 31 28 26 23 21 18 15

Start Quito

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Tour Only R pp*

Tour plus Inca Trail R pp*

2014 8 6 3 1 29 26 23 21

Oct 13 Nov 18 Nov 10 Dec 16 Dec 8 ● Jan 13

98999 100369 98999 100369 98999 100369

2015 Jan 8 Feb 2

101969 103339 101969 n/a

Feb 13 Mar 10

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement (tour only) add R20149.

Single room supplement (tour + Inca Trail) add R20149.

Start Quito 7:00am & end Rio 11:00am.

Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

Note: Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February.

Note: The Galapagos Islands have a compulsory US$100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park, a US$10 INGALA fee & a US$5 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival. Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations. ● Tour spends Xmas in Puno & NYE in the Amazon.

Tour operates during the 2014 World Cup, Brazil.

See important notes on p.50.

04/04/2013 17:01

JOIN US ONLINE

Download our App today - It’s Free.

Shout brings together the photos, videos & updates of everyone travelling on the same tour to create one epic story of your trip together. Save every moment & create a real-time timeline of your awesome travels to share with your friends back home. Find out more at www.contiki.com/shout

Travel tools

timeline Create a shared group timeline of your travel adventures.

Chat Meet other travellers before you go on your trip & chat on the go.

View your trip itinerary, maps & more. Plus view nearby hotspots provided by Lonely Planet. Looking for a restaurant? Want to know how to say hello in Spanish?

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Your journey starts well before you leave & lasts long after you return.

So get the most out of your travel experience with our nifty online tools.

Find out more at contiki.com

tools meetups Meet the rest of your travellers before you go in our private MeetUps. Access it on the go with our new app, ‘Shout’. contiki.com/meetups

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42-43 Online_Intro Costa Rica.indd 2

#

CONTIKI on your tweets, we read everything.

Follow our vloggers & get inspired for your travels.

TWIT TW ITTE TER R

YOUT YO UTUB UBE E

We rea aliise q que uest stio ions ns ccan an come up an come a yt ytim ime e & ou ur te team am are ar e he here re tto o he help lp 2 24/ 4/7 7

Join Jo in u uss as w we e ta take ke y you ou Alll ou Al ourr tw twee eete terss h hav ave e be been en o on n behind behi nd tthe he ssce cene ness of C Con onti tiki ki Co tik Cont ikii tr trip ips th them emse selv lves es & ccan an trip tr ipss ar arou ound nd tthe he w wor orld ld help he lp w wit ith h qu ques e ti tion ons or a adv dvic ice e

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twit tw itte ter. r.co com/ m/co cont ntik ikis isa a

yout yo utub ube. e.co com/ m/co cont ntik ikii

04/04/2013 17:02

42 | 43

costa Rica & mexico

National Parks, incredible marine life, cloundforests to the beach, volcanoes & adrenaline - Costa Rica has got it. Mix this up with adventures in Mexico’s ancient Mayan ruins, beach life & nightlife like nowhere else - we’ve got these global hotspots covered.

Wanting a short adventure, or an in-depth cultural experience with a twist? We’ve got options to suit everyone’s taste.

4 trips from 6 to 13 days

42-43 Online_Intro Costa Rica.indd 3

04/04/2013 17:04

MEXICO GRANDE 13 Days 1 countrY From R23845pp* R1835 per day MEXICO

SNORKELLING IN THE CARIBBEAN

your backstage pass includes • Acapulco catamaran cruise • Cruise on a ‘Trajinera’ & discover Xochimilco from a different angle • Tour the pyramids of Teotihuacan • Relax & take in the sights on a horse drawn carriage ride in Merida • Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza Plus flight on map included in tour price!

ME Time MERIDA 1 GULF OF MEXICO

MORELIA 1 MICHOACÁN

IXTAPA 2

GUERRERO

YUCATÁN

QUINTANA ROO

MEXICO CITY 2 1 TAXCO 2 ACAPULCO

CANCUN 3 Playa del Carmen

ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

ME Time optionals M Mayan culture adventure complete with ziplining, rappelling, canoeing & lunch!

M Dolphin Encounter

did you know ...

Mexico introduced chocolate to the world.

Look out for Ibarra, it’s a rich tasting Mexican chocolate laced with cinnamon.

Yum!

PACIFIC OCEAN

Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Plane

ExplorerJane 23: Awesome tour, so much fun.

We saw a lot during the day...Our tour guide was great. Definitely recommend.

Visit contiki.com/mexico-grande

44-45 Mexico Grande.indd 2

04/04/2013 17:10

TRAJINERAS, MEXICO CITY

44 | 45

MEXICO CHICHEN ITZA

This is the perfect way to explore this legendary country.

Try sinking your teeth into delicious MEXICAN cuisine, getting up close to ancient Mayan culture, & taking in some sun & beach vibes. Blend this with big city action & cool locals, & you’ve got the Mexico Grande.

How much & when Finish Cancun

Total Cost R pp*

2013 Jun Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Start Mexico City

Finish Cancun

Total Cost R pp*

May Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

29 19 10 7 28 25 30 27 18

23845 23845 23845 23845 23845 23845 23845 23845 23845

Jan 29 Feb 26 Mar 12

24555 24555 24555

2014

8 Jun 29 Jul 27 Aug 17 Aug 14 Sep 19 Oct 16 Nov 21 ● Jan

20 11 8 29 26 31 28 2

23845 23845 23845 23845 23845 23845 23845 26230

May Jun Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

30 27 27 17

23845 23845 23845 23845

2015

17 7 28 26 16 13 18 15 6

2014 Jan Feb Mar Apr

Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Mexico City to Morelia Meet up with your Contiki team & leave Mexico’s capital city behind. Arrive in Morelia with its fascinating colonial architecture & picturesque streets. Try some delicious local food, then it’s out for a night on the town. Hotel (D) Walking tour of Morelia Visit a local candy market See the spectacular illumination of Mexico’s most beautiful cathedral

•• •

Day 2: Morelia to Ixtapa via Zihuatanejo Head out west to the sunny Mexican Riviera with its long stretches of white sand beaches.

Then take it easy in the resort town of Ixtapa. Hotel (B) Visit Playa La Ropa & Zihuatanejo

•

Day 3: Ixtapa Have fun walking along the beach, or get local & discover an authentic ambience in a nearby beach village. The waters are perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, & fishing. Hotel (B,D) M Horseback ride along the shoreline & plantations Day 4: Ixtapa to Acapulco The bright lights & non-stop energy of Acapulco Bay are calling! Watch the worldrenowned & death-defying cliff divers. When the sun sets, experience the nightlife of Mexico’s ultimate party town.

Hotel (B) Day 5: Acapulco Get into the local scene by exploring a traditional open-air market. Then, relax in the sun on the beach, sample mouthwatering seafood, & this afternoon watch the sunset on a party cruise. Hotel (B,D) Day 6: Acapulco to Taxco Wind into the Sierra Madre Mountains & find the quaint stucco buildings of Taxco nestled in the hills. Known for

44-45 Mexico Grande.indd 3

its fine silver crafts, check out artisan shops for the perfect souvenir. Hotel (B) Watch a local silver demonstration

•

Day 7: Taxco to Mexico City Return to Mexico City & visit the unique floating gardens & markets of Xochimilco. Then, it’s off through “The City of Palaces” to see the ancient ruins & colonial-influenced, yet modern, architecture. Hotel (B) Float through the canals of Xochimilco on a Trajinera Guided tour of Centro Historico, including the National Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral & Templo Mayor Visit Coyoacán, birthplace of Frida Kahlo

• • •

Day 8: Mexico City Start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Then the day is yours to jump into the city’s high energy to explore its sidewalk cafés, bazaars, boutiques & museums. Hotel (B,D) Guided tour of Teotihuacan

•

Day 9: Mexico City to Merida Leave behind the buzz of Mexico City & fly to the beautiful white-stone city of Merida. Tour the city’s gorgeous colonial buildings, palaces & Hacienda before indulging in a mouthwatering Yucatecan meal. Hotel (B,D) Walking tour of Merida’s sights

•

•

Swim in a cenote (sink hole)

Day 11: Cancun & Playa del Carmen We’ll take a day trip to the beach playground of Playa del Carmen. Take a stroll along the Quinta Avenida & the stunning beach while enjoying the friendly local hospitality. Fill your day with everything from snorkelling the clear blue waters, hanging out in open-air cafés & restaurants, stopping for a beer or two with the locals, or people watching. You can even take a ferry across to the island of Cozumel before heading back to Cancun. Hotel (B) Visit Playa del Carmen

18 15 15 5

Jan Feb Mar Apr

Jan 17 Feb 14 Feb 28

What’s Included: 12 nights twin-share hotel accommodation (more on p.16-17)

Code: MEXC 2013/14/15 Start Mexico City

Mexico Grande 13 days

18 meals: 12 breakfasts (B) 6 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach Flight from Mexico City to Merida Sightseeing tours of all major cities Local taxes & service charges

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement add R7199.

Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Cancun 11:00am. ● Tour spends Xmas in Acapulco & New Year’s Eve in Cancun.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R2175.

See p.22 for details.

4 World Heritage sites visited

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

MEXICO CITY

•

Day 12: Cancun Soak up all the Cancun action you want today - swim through a jungle lagoon, snorkel, or take a day trip to beautiful Isla Mujeres for some delicious seafood & sightseeing, or a dolphin encounter. Then for your last night, party in great bars & dance clubs ’til the sun comes up. Hotel (B,D) M Snorkelling & zipline adventure Day 13: Depart Cancun Your Mexican adventure ends this morning & it’s time to swap email addresses & say farewell to your new friends. (B) SHOP FOR SOUVENIRS

Day 10: Merida to Cancun via Chichen Itza Immerse yourself in Mayan history on a guided tour at Chichen Itza – the country’s spectacular ancient ceremonial centre. This afternoon we arrive in legendary Cancun with its endless shopping, nightlife & outdoor hub. Hotel (B) Guided tour of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza

•

04/04/2013 17:12

Visit contiki.com/mexican-fiesta

MEXICAN FIESTA 9 Days 1 countrY From R14049pp* R1561 per day

GULF OF MEXICO

MORELIA 1 MICHOACÁN

IXTAPA 2

1

backstage pass

12 meals: 8 breakfasts (B) 4 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach

How much & when Code: MEX2 2013/14/15 Start Mexico City

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

2013 Jun Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Start Mexico City

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

2014

8 Jun 29 Jul 27 Aug 17 Aug 14 Sep 19 Oct 16 Nov 21 ● Dec

16 7 4 25 22 27 24 29

14049 14049 14049 14049 14049 14049 14049 15450

May Jun Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

26 23 23 13

14049 14049 14049 14049

2015

17 7 28 26 16 13 18 15 6

25 15 6 3 24 21 26 23 14

14049 14049 14049 14049 14049 14049 14049 14049 14049

Jan 25 Feb 22 Mar 8

14469 14469 14469

May Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2014

Sightseeing tours of all major cities

Jan Feb Mar Apr

Local taxes & service charges

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R1445.

See p.22 for details.

2

Day 1: Mexico City to Morelia Meet up with your Contiki team & leave Mexico’s capital city behind.

Arrive in Morelia with its fascinating colonial architecture & picturesque streets. Try some seriously delicious local food, then it’s out for a night on the town where you can learn to party like a local. Hotel (D) Walking tour of Morelia Visit a local candy market Watch the spectacular illumination of Mexico’s most beautiful cathedral

of Acapulco Bay are calling!

Watch the world-renowned & death-defying cliff divers. When the sun sets, experience the nightlife of Mexico’s ultimate party town. Hotel (B)

Day 2: Morelia to Ixtapa via Zihuatanejo Head out west to the sunny Mexican Riviera with its long stretches of white sand beaches. Then take it easy in the resort town of Ixtapa.

Hotel (B) Visit Playa La Ropa & Zihuatanejo

Day 6: Acapulco to Taxco Wind into the Sierra Madre Mountains & find the quaint stucco buildings of Taxco nestled in the hills. Known for its fine silver crafts, check out artisan shops for the perfect souvenir. Hotel (B) Watch a local silver demonstration

•• •

ME Time optionals

8 nights twin-share hotel accommodation (more on p.16-17)

2 ACAPULCO

Itinerary & Sightseeing

• Sit back & relax, cocktail in hand on an Acapulco catamaran cruise • Cruise on a colourful ‘Trajinera’ with a beer & discover Xochimilco from a different angle • Tour the pyramids of Teotihuacan

What’s Included:

PACIFIC OCEAN

Nightstops

1 TAXCO

BEACHLIFE on THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Inclusions

Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time.

GUERRERO

MEXICO CITY 2

18 15 15 5

Jan Feb Mar Apr

Jan 17 Feb 14 Feb 28

•

Day 3: Ixtapa Have fun walking along the beach, or get local & discover an authentic ambience in a nearby beach village. The waters are perfect for snorkelling, kayaking & fishing.

Hotel (B,D) M Horseback ride along the shoreline & plantations Day 4: Ixtapa to Acapulco The bright lights & non-stop energy

Day 5: Acapulco Get into the local scene by exploring a traditional open-air market. Then, relax in the sun on the beach, sample mouthwatering seafood, & this afternoon watch the sunset on a party cruise. Hotel (B,D)

•

Day 7: Taxco to Mexico City Return to Mexico City & visit the unique floating gardens & markets of Xochimilco. Then, it’s off through “The City of Palaces” to see the ancient ruins & colonial-influenced, yet modern, architecture. Hotel (B) Float through the canals of

•

• •

Xochimilco on a Trajinera Guided tour of Centro Historico, including the National Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral & Templo Mayor Visit Coyoacán, birthplace of Frida Kahlo

Day 8: Mexico City Start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Afterwards, the day is yours to jump into the city’s high energy to explore its sidewalk cafés, bazaars, boutiques & museums.

Hotel (B,D) Guided tour of Teotihuacan

•

Day 9: Depart Mexico City This morning the tour ends & it’s time to say farewell to your new friends. (B)

IXTAPA

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement add R8065.

Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Mexico City 11:00am. ● Tour spends Xmas in Acapulco.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

World Heritage sites visited

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

46-47 Mexican Fiesta_Yucatan.indd 2

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46 | 47 Visit contiki.com/yucatan

MEXICO

YUCATAN HIGHLIGHTS

Yucatan Highlights 6 days

6 Days 1 country

backstage pass Inclusions

From R11759pp* R1960 per day

MERIDA 1

GULF OF MEXICO

YUCATÁN

CANCUN 3 Playa del Carmen

QUINTANA ROO

1 MEXICO CITY

Plus flight on map included in tour price!

Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Plane

ME Time optionals

TEOTIHUACAN

Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Arrive Mexico City Meet up with your Contiki team & start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Afterwards, the day is yours to jump into the city’s high energy & explore its sidewalk cafés, bazaars, boutiques & museums.

Hotel (D) Guided tour of Teotihuacan

•

Day 2: Mexico City to Merida Leave behind the buzz of Mexico City & fly to the beautiful white-stone city of Merida. Tour the city’s gorgeous colonial buildings, palaces & Hacienda before indulging in a mouthwatering Yucatecan meal. Hotel (B,D) Walking tour of Merida’s sights

•

Day 3: Merida to Cancun via Chichen Itza Immerse yourself in beautiful FIRE DANCING

Mayan history on a guided tour at Chichen Itza – the country’s spectacular ancient ceremonial centre. This afternoon we arrive in legendary Cancun with its endless shopping, nightlife & outdoor hub.

Hotel (B) Guided tour of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza Swim in a cenote (sink hole) M Mayan culture adventure complete with ziplining, rappelling, canoeing & lunch!

• •

Day 4: Cancun & Playa del Carmen We’ll take a day trip to the beach playground of Playa del Carmen. Take a stroll along the Quinta Avenida & the stunning beach while enjoying the friendly local hospitality. Fill your day with everything from snorkelling the clear blue waters, hanging out in open-air cafés & restaurants,

stopping for a beer or two with the locals, or people watching. You can even take a ferry across to the island of Cozumel before heading back to Cancun.

Hotel (B) Visit Playa del Carmen

•

Day 5: Cancun Soak up all the Cancun action you want today swim through a jungle lagoon, snorkel, or take a day trip to beautiful Isla Mujeres for some delicious seafood & sightseeing, or a dolphin encounter. Then for your last night, party in great bars & dance clubs ’til the sun comes up. Hotel (B,D) Day 6: Depart Cancun Your Mexican adventure ends this morning & it’s time to swap email addresses & say farewell to your new friends. (B)

• Tour the pyramids of Teotihuacan • Relax & take in the sights on a horse drawn carriage ride in Merida • Turn back the clock at the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza

Look for the (M) symbol in the itinerary to make the most of your ME Time.

M Snorkelling & zipline adventure

How much & when Code: MEX3 2013/14/15 Start Mexico City

Finish Cancun

Total Cost R pp*

2013 Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Start Mexico City

Finish Cancun

Total Cost R pp*

What’s Included:

2014

15 Jun 6 Jul 3 Aug 24 Aug 21 Sep 26 Oct 23 Nov 28 ● Jan

20 11 8 29 26 31 28 2

11759 11759 11759 11759 11759 11759 11759 12935

May May Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

30 27 27 17

11759 11759 11759 11759

2015

24 14 5 2 23 20 25 22 13

29 19 10 7 28 25 30 27 18

11759 11759 11759 11759 11759 11759 11759 11759 11759

Jan 29 Feb 26 Mar 12

12115 12115 12115

May Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2014 Jan Feb Mar Apr

25 22 22 12

Jan Feb Mar Apr

Jan 24 Feb 21 Mar 7

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement add R3139.

Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Cancun 11:00am. ● Tour spends New Year’s Eve in Cancun.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

5 nights twin-share hotel accommodation (more on p.16-17) 8 meals: 5 breakfasts (B) 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach Flight from Mexico City to Merida Sightseeing tours of all major cities Local taxes & service charges

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R930.

See p.22 for details.

3 World Heritage sites visited

METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL, MEXICO CITY

46-47 Mexican Fiesta_Yucatan.indd 3

04/04/2013 17:13

COSTa RICA UNPLUGGED 12 Days 1 countrY From R20455pp* R1705 per day COSTA RICA

RARA AVIS WATERFALL

your backstage pass includes • Sunset cruise in Tortuguero • Rafting, canopy adventure or abseiling in Sarapiqui • Enjoy dinner at a traditional country estate Plus Contiki Special Stays • Jungle Lodge in Tortuguero • Rainforest Special Stay

ME Time

Nicaragua

SARAPIQUI 1

ARENAL 2 MONTEVERDE 2

2 TORTUGUERO

Poas Volcano National Park Braulio Carrillo National Park

GULF OF MEXICO

1 SAN JOSÉ Quepos

MANUEL ANTONIO

ME Time optionals

COSTA RICA

3

ME Time is all about flexibility & the freedom to explore on your own terms. You choose how to spend your free time; relaxing, discovering, getting a little random.

Or you can choose from our ME Time Optionals. Make every moment count.

M M M M

Manuel Antonio National Park

explore ...

Love people watching?

Grab an ice cream & spend an afternoon chilling out at Parque Central in San José.

Hot springs dip Selvatura Park ziplining ATV adventure Mangrove/Damas Island kayaking

PACIFIC OCEAN

Panama

1 1

Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays

Connie: Costa Rica!! Pura Vida!! This was a great trip, highly recommend it if you’re seeking adventure and activity at a moderate pace Visit contiki.com/unplugged

48-49 Costa Rica Unplugged.indd 2

04/04/2013 17:14

48 | 49

This tiny country is a haven for discovery & adventure, so get ready to go in-depth on this 12 day trip. From jungles & rainforests, to volcanoes, beaches, cool coffee plantations & even cooler locals, it’s the perfect way to uncover amazing Costa Rica.

Day 1: Arrive San José Meet up with your Contiki team before heading out to explore Poás Volcano National Park & San José’s famous spots.

Tonight, start the trip right & get to know your group over a delicious dinner at our favourite local restaurant. Hotel (D) San José tour see La Sabana Park, the Contemporary Art Museum, Central market, La Plaza de la Cultura & National Theatre Visit Poás Volcano National Park

Start San José

Day 3: Tortuguero Get ready to spot howler monkeys, toucans, sloths, reptiles & other animals on a guided boat ride through the National Park, where our expert local guide will give you the inside track on this amazing haven for wildlife. Later, it’s all about relaxing the way you want before our incredible sunset boat ride along the canals.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,L,D) Wildlife boat cruise Sunset canal cruise

••

Day 4: Tortuguero to Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge (Pozo Azul Adventures Special Stay) Next up, our overnight eco camp in Sarapiqui – it’s perfect for those that love to relax.

You’ll discover the rainforest on our Tirimbina chocolate tour to learn about one of mankind’s favourite treats, before a delicious BBQ feast.

Contiki Special Stay, Rainforest Lodge (B,L,D) Locally guided Tirimbina chocolate tour

•

Day 5: Sarapiqui to Arenal/ La Fortuna This morning’s yours, so choose from adrenaline pumping white water rafting, a canopy adventure or abseiling before checking out the perfectly symmetrical Arenal volcano.

The area is known for its spa & mud pool treatments, so it’s

48-49 Costa Rica Unplugged.indd 3

Finish San José

Total Cost R pp*

2013 Jun Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Nov Nov Dec

•

• •

How much & when Code: COSTA 2013/14/15

•

Day 2: San José to Tortuguero Say farewell to the big city as we head to Tortuguero via Braulio Carrillo National Park.

Only accessible by boat or small aircraft, Tortuguero is famous for being one of Costa Rica’s most popular eco-tourism spots & the rainforest, stunning water & home to the Atlantic green turtle.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,L,D) Visit Braulio Carrillo National Park Look out for wildlife on our boat ride

ARENAL VOLCANO

Itinerary & Sightseeing

COSTA RICA

12 3 24 21 11 9 13 11 1

20455 20455 20455 20455 20455 20455 20455 20455 20455

Feb 12 Mar 12 Apr 30

20455 20455 20455

2014

WHITEWATER RAFTING

the ideal place to treat yourself.

Hotel (B,L) Try rafting, a canopy zipline or abseiling - your choice!

See the incredible Arenal volcano

beautiful beaches of the Costa Rican Central Pacific coast! We’ll make a stop in Jaco before arriving at Manuel Antonio, a haven for those that love to relax. Hotel (B,D)

Day 6: Arenal/La Fortuna This morning maybe give canyoneering a go, then this afternoon experience the traditional Costa Rican way of life with a visit to La Casona Rio Fortuna. Get in the know as you learn how to mill sugar cane & make delicious coffee & tortillas, then enjoy a traditional homemade dinner with the owners.

Hotel (B,D) Guided tour of La Casona & its local industries Learn how traditional products are made & try making some yourself!

M Canyoneering (waterfall rappelling)

Day 10: Manuel Antonio This morning is all about doing your own thing. Hit the beach with your iPod & a book, head out to explore the town or just sit with a drink & work on your tan. This afternoon we’ll head to town for a look at the local market, where there’s your chance to pick up some souvenirs. Hotel (B) Visit a local market M Surf lessons

• •

• •

Day 7: Arenal/La Fortuna to Monteverde Today it’s on to Monteverde, Costa Rica’s most popular reserve. It’s one of the most outstanding wild life sanctuaries in the tropics, filled with cloud forests, coffee plantations, monkeys, mist & friendly locals.

This afternoon we hike into the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Hotel (B) Cross Lake Arenal Hike the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

••

Day 8: Monteverde It’s an early start this morning as we visit Selvatura Park to walk the hanging bridges, visit the butterfly sanctuary and for the thrill seekers opt in for ziplining. This afternoon learn the A-Z about Costa Rica’s famous coffee & an evening horse ride. Hotel (B) Costa Rican coffee making tour

•

Day 11: Manuel Antonio It’s time to get active & walk with our expert guide through the exotic, bio-diverse tropical rainforest of Manuel Antonio National Park. This afternoon join us on an optional catamaran cruise. Set sail on our awesome boat trip to spot many dolphins, whales, sea turtles & birds. Don’t forget your swimming gear for swim stops & snorkelling.

Hotel (B,D) Locally guided rainforest hike M Coastal kayak/snorkelling experience

Finish San José

Total Cost R pp*

2014

1 Jun 22 Jul 13 Jul 10 Aug 31 Sep 28 Oct 2 Nov 30 Dec ● Jan 21

Feb 1 Mar 1 Apr 19

Start San José

May Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Nov Nov Dec

11 2 23 20 10 8 12 10 31

20455 20455 20455 20455 20455 20455 20455 20455 20455

Feb 11 Mar 11 Mar 25

21065 21065 21065

31 Jun 21 Jul 12 Jul 9 Aug 30 Sep 27 Oct 1 Nov 29 Dec 20 ▲ Dec

2015 Jan 31 Feb 28 Mar 14

* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re

travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.

Single room supplement add R6499.

Start San José 8:00am & end San José 5:00pm.

Please note: Do not book flights before 8:00pm. ● Tour spends Xmas in Arenal & New Year’s Eve in Manuel Antonio. ▲ Tour spends Xmas in Arenal.

For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.

For travel insurance see p.50.

Costa Rica Unplugged 12 days What’s Included: 11 nights accommodation: 8 nights in twin-share hotels, 2 nights in a lodge, 1 night Special Stay experience (more on p.16-17) 22 meals: 11 breakfasts (B) 4 lunches (L) 7 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager English speaking local guides Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

$

SAVE Pay early & save up to R2105.

See p.22 for details.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

ZIPLINING JUNGLE ADVENTURE

•

Day 12: Manuel Antonio to San José Relax in paradise this morning before we head back to San José where your tour ends on arrival. (B) Please note: Do not book flights before 8:00pm.

•

Day 9: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio It’s all sun & good times this morning, we’re off to the

04/04/2013 17:15

got a question?

Answers to frequently asked questions & things you need to know: What’s included?

• Coach, mini-coach, van, train, canoe, flights & ‘on tour’ airport transfers listed in the ‘What’s Included’ section as specified.

• Accommodation, breakfasts, lunches & dinners listed in the ‘What’s Included’ section on tour pages.

• Sightseeing listed in the ‘Itinerary & Sightseeing’ section in each tour itinerary. Unless specified, entrance fees to these locations are included.

• Experienced Contiki Tour Manager & Local Guides.

• Tips for Local Guides & Local Drivers.

What’s not included?

• Personal expense money.

• Visas, passport fees, personal insurance & medical fees.

• Excess baggage fees & tips for porters.

• Sightseeing, visits & entrance fees & transport other than those specified on tour pages.

• Explore More optional activities such as mountain biking, speed boat rides etc.

• Lunches (unless specified under “What’s Included”) & some dinners.

• Reciprocity Tax in Argentina for some nationalities – check contiki.com/contikipedia for more info.

• Departure Tax at airports.

• Galapagos National Park Fee of US$100 (must be paid in cash).

• Ecuador INGALA Fee of US$10.

• Ecuador Isabela Island Fee of US$5.

Included flights Flights as specified on individual tour itineraries are included as part of the price. As detailed within our Booking Conditions (p.51) under ‘General’ we rely on international conventions regarding air travel and other transportation as specified. Through enrollment and payment for your tour you acknowledge and accept such.

Individual electronic tickets may not be issued to you prior to travel due to the group nature of the air/flight booking.

In such circumstances you acknowledge that by receipt of any applicable boarding pass and/or by boarding the aircraft you have accepted the airlines terms & conditions of travel and the application of all relevant International Conventions and applicable national and international law governing air transportation.

consider when packing for a Contiki Latin America Tour, including leaving space for on trip purchases: • Due to the large number of flights on Contiki Latin America tours, your luggage needs to meet the weight & restrictions imposed by airlines. These limits are imposed by the airlines, not by Contiki. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred by overweight luggage. Please refer to contiki.com/luggage for more info.

• You are responsible for carrying your own luggage. At times this will be in hotels without elevators (as is common in the region) or on various forms of transport.

• At hotels without elevators there may be porters but this is not guaranteed.

• We recommend small hand luggage for the Galapagos – Larger luggage can be stored at the Guayaquil hotel to be retrieved on return.

Please keep your luggage to a maximum suitcase size of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”) & maximum weight of 20kg (44lbs), plus one small handbag / daypack that can be used as an overnight bag for Machu Picchu Pueblo (see below).

Important: Every Contiki trip to Peru includes a train journey round trip to Machu Picchu Pueblo where we overnight. Perurail, the train operator, have strict baggage allowances. You are allowed to carry as hand luggage a day pack/backpack with a weight of no more than 5kg/11lb & with a maximum size of 62 linear inches/157cm (length + height + width). Perurail will charge for excess baggage. A daypack/backpack of approx 26L capacity is suggested. Contiki will store your main luggage at our Cusco hotel during this time.

Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk & baggage insurance is strongly recommended. Luggage is not guaranteed or included in the cost of your tour & Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept over sized baggage on tour.

Past traveller 5% discount

Contiki’s group size in Latin America averages around 25, a group size small enough to have an intimate Latin American experience but big enough to have ultimate fun.

Eligibility for this discount is based on clients having booked & travelled with Contiki (or one of our Travel Corporation sister brands, visit www. thetravelcorporation.com for details) within 5 years of their last tour. Clients must have completed a tour before they can redeem the discount on a subsequent tour booking. Only one discount can be redeemed per past traveller annually. A deposit must be received before the discount can be applied to the booking. It is not available on pre & post-tour accommodation rates & other selected products.

The discount applies to brochured prices only & cannot be combined with any non-brochured special market promotions.

How much money do I need?

me time Optional Activities

You will need to ensure you allow enough money to

WHEN DO I CHOOSE? Optionals are arranged & paid for on tour. By leaving the final decisions until then you can choose at the same time as your new friends. You’ll get great value as we get you great rates & your Tour Manager can offer personal advice. Some activities are seasonal & weather dependent as well.

Group size

cover optional lunches & dinners, souvenirs, shopping, drinks, optional activities, entrance fees to some attractions & evening entertainment.

When travelling within Latin America, you’ll find that you’ll often be using local currency, particularly in remote areas. The local currencies are the Nuevo Sol (Peru), Peso “Argentino” (Argentina), Real (Brazil), US$ (Ecuador), Peso (Mexico), Colón (Costa Rica).

The countries we visit rely largely on cash as opposed to credit cards or travellers cheques. In the larger cities you’ll find that established stores will accept credit cards. VISA is the most readily accepted, but stores normally charge a surcharge. Local market stalls will operate on a cash only basis.

Local currency is available through cash (ATM) machines however you shouldn’t depend solely on a credit/debit card for cash as they are not accepted in all areas & ATM maintenance is often neglected.

ATMs are available in Lima, Buenos Aires, Cusco, Quito, Guayaquil, San Jose & Mexico City Airports.

We recommend that you carry cash in small denominations of both US$ & local currency and have more than one credit card. Please note that travellers cheques are generally only accepted in big cities at money exchanges or banks.

How much luggage can I bring?

Baggage is restricted to only one reasonably sized backpack/suitcase & one carry-on bag & luggage policies are strictly enforced. There are some things to

50-51 Q&A_BC's.indd 2

Do I need vaccinations?

Booking Security

At the time this brochure went to press (April 2013) the following immunisations are recommended for travellers in Latin America by the CDC (The Centre for Disease Control): Travellers should be up to date with their routine vaccinations: Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT), Poliovirus etc.

Recommended for Argentina, Brazil & Peru: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid & Rabies, Malaria & Yellow Fever are also an issue in Puerto Maldonado, Iquitos & Iguassu Falls. You should consult your local doctor or travel agent on what vaccinations &/or preventative medicines would be required. Don’t forget to bring with you any medication that you may require en route such as antihistamines, antibiotics, etc

Contiki has been running tours for young people since 1962 & in all countries we fully comply with local industry laws. In South Africa, Contiki is a member of the Association of South African Travel Agents Association (ASATA).

Do I need visas?

Depending on your nationality, you may require visas to enter certain countries included in your Latin America tour.

You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas PRIOR to the departure of your tour. Any costs whatsoever regarding obtaining, replacing or changing visas whilst on tour (including accommodation, meals, flights & transfers incurred due to associated delays) are at your own expense.

Contiki is not legally permitted to knowingly allow anybody who does not have a valid visa to join a tour. Visa & other entry & exit conditions (such as currency, arrival/departure taxes, customs & quarantine regulations) change regularly. Visit contiki.com/visas for more information. Alternatively, consult your travel agent or visit your local embassy to determine which visas you require.

Your passport must have at least six months validity at time of travel. Local immigration authorities may deny entry & deport people who do not meet this requirement, even if they intend on staying only for a short period. Important to consider: 1. Visas can take up to six weeks & a fee is normally charged.

2. Failure to obtain all necessary visas could cause you to miss part of your tour & will result in you incurring considerable expense & inconvenience.

3. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred as a result of you failing to obtain all necessary visas before the departure of your tour.

4. It is better to apply for all visas through your travel agent before you leave home.

5. It is very important that the entry & exit dates are correct on the visa. Your travel agent will contact Contiki for full details.

no compulsory tipping reward only excellence!

Every country in the world has different tipping customs & in Latin America, within service industries, tipping is common practice. Tipping is totally optional & only given if you feel the service has exceeded your expectations. If you think your Contiki Team have done an exceptional job then you may wish to tip them.

Gold Seal Protection Coverage for Cancellation & Return Flight Security: Most tour operators are interested in their passengers only after they reach their destination. With Contiki, however, you get a great deal even before you leave home.

Pre-paid Cancellation Option R590 per person: By paying R590 per person Cancellation Option fee with your deposit, the full amount of your deposit &/ or payment to Contiki Holidays will be refunded should you cancel your tour for any reason prior to departure from South Africa. This cancellation option covers the land arrangements made by Contiki Holidays only.

On Your Tour: Should you, or your travel companion, leave at any time during the tour for personal sickness reasons or be required to return to South Africa due to injury, sickness or death, you & your companion will be refunded R90 per person per day for the unused portion of the tour. (Please note that in some cases hotels require a one night cancellation fee). A Doctor’s certificate is required.

The Cancellation Option Fee is not refundable for any reason.

Return Flight Security: If you or a member of your direct family in South Africa should fall sick* while you are on your Contiki tour, we will take care of the additional cost of tickets for your earlier or later return home in the same class of air travel on the first available flight, provided you hold round-trip airline tickets on Contiki’s recommended airline(s) booked through Contiki Holidays, South Africa from South Africa. * Medical certificates as proof of all illness claims must be supplied.

Travel Agent fees may apply.

Travel insurance Cancellation, unexpected medical expenses, injuries, theft, lost luggage or money can significantly disrupt & ruin your holiday. It is compulsory that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, medical expenses, evacuation & repatriation expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money & public liability before you travel. In some instances, you may not be accepted on a Contiki holiday unless you have arranged satisfactory insurance. You also agree to indemnify us against all third-party claims, actions, damages & remedies against us arising from your participation in your holiday. For insurance details, please speak to your travel agent or Contiki when you are booking your tour

2014 world cup - brazil During the 2014 soccer/football World Cup, Brazil will be even more exciting & busier than normal.

Although every effort will be made to ensure minimal disruption, tours operating during this period are likely to experience some changes to the stated itinerary & / or changes to accommodation. By booking during this time you are accepting that changes to the stated itinerary & accommodations are likely.

HOW DO I PAY? All Me Time Optionals can be paid cash in Local Currency – see “HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED”

This is entirely discretionary – it’s completely up to you. No compulsory tipping – reward only excellence!

what else?

Acceptance of risk

Will I get more information?

Regular passport checks are common throughout Latin America. It’s essential that when you book your tour that you provide the passport details for the passport you will be travelling with.

It’s important that you acknowledge that at times travelling on a Contiki Latin America tour may be more adventurous & presents greater challenges than your normal daily life. The civil infrastructure, medical facilities, transportation, telecommunications & accommodation standards may not be what you are used to. Cleanliness & hygiene standards also vary.

As such there is some degree of personal risk inherent in travelling Latin America & as a Contiki traveller you accept this.

Upon receipt of final payment, your documentation will be released 21 days prior to your departure. You’ll receive a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary including full details & costs of all optional activities available on your tour. Your free Contiki document wallet & luggage tag* will be sent to you with your travel documents. The wallet is a safe place for your tickets & passport. * Contiki reserves the right to substitute an alternative travel accessory for the Contiki document wallet.

Brochure authenticity

Online check-in

We have put a great deal of effort into producing this brochure. The information given & literature produced

by Contiki has been compiled with care & is published in good faith. Sometimes, because of circumstances outside our control, we have to alter some activities due to seasonal closing or repairs to buildings, etc., especially early or late in the season. If this happens, alternatives will be arranged.

It is strongly recommended that you check in to your tour prior to departure at contiki.com/checkin. Checking in will save you time on your first day of tour, give you essential information & also ensure that Contiki can contact you in the unlikely event of any changes to your trip due to matters out of our control. For more information on how to get more before & after your tour see p.42.

Photography credits Photo Courtesy of Brandon Heredia p.6 La Boca Buenos Aires & Boat Cruise Rio, p.13 Iguassu Falls, p.14 Favela Rio, p.22 South American Money, p.34 Iguassu Falls, p.40 Rio de Janeiro. Photo Courtesy of Kylie Kerkin p.6 Iguassu Falls Brazil. Photo Courtesy of Gaby Liliana p.10 & p.11 Local Guide. Photo Courtesy of Dan Lumelski p.12 & 31 Hang Gliding Rio, p.24 Machu Picchu. Photo Courtesy of Colca Canyon Casa de Mama Yacchi p.17 Colca Canyon Lodge. Photo Courtesy of Hotel Icaro Suite p.17 Hotel Room. Photo Courtesy of Costa Rican Jungle Lodge p.17 Swimming Pool. Photo Courtesy of Çapkin van Alphen-CauseCentric Productions p.20 Celine Causteau. Photo Courtesy of Tess Murphy p.24 Inca Trail. Photo Courtesy of Banco de Imagenes de Prom Peru p.26 Llama’s. Photo Courtesy of Ascom Riotur Rio de Janeiro Tourist Board p.30 Copacabana Beach. Photo Courtesy of Julie Spedding p.31 Iguassu Falls. Photo Courtesy of Lorenz Artaker p.37 Rio

04/04/2013 17:17

50 | 51

booking conditions

Once Contiki accepts your booking by confirmation thereof a contract is made between Contiki & you upon the terms & conditions set out below.

Our Responsibilities 1. YOUR HOLIDAY RESERVATION On receipt of your deposit, subject to availability and at our discretion, Contiki will reserve your place on your selected holiday. A contract is only made between you and us upon your booking being confirmed and accepted by us and our communication thereof to either you or your travel agent.

2. PRICE GUARANTEE Prices in this brochure are based on costs and exchange rates as at 13th March 2013. Should these costs change, it may be necessary to add a surcharge to the price of your holiday. Should the total tour price increase by more than 10% you will have the right to cancel within 7 days of notification without penalty. No surcharge in respect of cost or currency fluctuations will be made once payment of the deposit for your land tour has been received. This guarantee excludes fuel surcharges and does not apply to any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any governments or their agencies. In exchange for these guarantees, no refund will be made if costs are reduced.

3. IF WE CANCEL OR CHANGE YOUR HOLIDAY 3.1 Contiki reserves the right to change or cancel your booking in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control.

3.2 Should change or cancellation prove necessary we will give you reasonable notice thereof, in the circumstances, and where available, offer you a comparable alternative.

3.3 If an alternative is not available or acceptable you will be entitled to either a full refund of monies paid by you to us or transfer to another Contiki holiday without payment of any transfer fee.

3.4 If the change or cancellation is due to force majeure (i.e. circumstances like political unrest, war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, closure of airports or ports, industrial disputes, terrorist activity, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemic or health risk, Acts of God, adverse weather conditions or other similar events beyond Contiki’s control) we will give a full refund of any monies paid to us less reasonable expenses incurred by us in respect of your booking.

3.5 Contiki is not responsible for the costs of any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations or rescheduling of any tour departure.

4. HOLIDAY DETAILS AND CONDITIONS 4.1 The information in our brochure is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of going to print (April 2013) but we cannot guarantee that any item or amenity mentioned will be available especially where we have no direct control over it.

4.2 With respect to our touring programme Contiki will do their best, at their discretion, to select accommodation, sightseeing tours and transportation to give you good value for money.

4.3 Contiki constantly strives to improve tour itineraries and features. If such improvements can be made, or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries and to substitute hotels.

Contiki is not responsible for any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations.

4.4 When winter brochures are released, these prices supersede any winter tour prices in the summer brochure 5. LIABILITY 5.1 Your travel agent shall, on the receipt of any monies, hold such monies for you until the booking is confirmed at which time those monies shall be remitted promptly by your travel agent to us. All such monies received by us will be deposited as required by law.

5.2 We will be entitled to keep for our account any interest earned on such monies.

5.3 All monies paid by you to us through your travel agent or otherwise, whether in respect of the deposit or full payment, may be disbursed by us as and when we see fit, in respect of the services to be provided and/or fees payable under your selected holiday. The payment of a deposit or any other monies in respect of your holiday shall be deemed to be an authorisation for disbursement thereof as aforesaid.

YOur Responsibilities 1. BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY 1.1 In order to reserve your holiday, a deposit of R1,000, per person per tour, or the full amount payable if booking is made within 45 days of departure from your home country, must be submitted to Contiki within 7 days in respect of that holiday.

This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. The deposit is accepted as a first installment of the holiday price by Contiki only once the booking has been confirmed in writing by Contiki or your travel agent.

1.2 Your land reservation will be confirmed on receipt of a nonrefundable deposit of R1,000 per person, per tour which must be within 7 days of booking or the reservation will automatically be cancelled.

1.3 Any special meal requirements will be made on a request basis only. Contiki cannot guarantee special meal requests nor will it assume any responsibility or liability if clients’ special meal requirements are not fulfilled.

1.4 Inca Trail Trek If you wish to book a tour including the Inca Trail Trek you will be required to make an additional nonrefundable deposit at the time of booking. Your reservations agent will advise you of the additional amount required.

Should Contiki be unable to obtain a trail pass for the date requested your additional deposit will be refunded in full.

2. PAYING THE BALANCE 2.1 The balance of the holiday price must be paid by no later

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than 45 days before the scheduled holiday departure date from your home country which shall be by the due date stated on the confirmation issued to you by Contiki. When making multi-tour bookings, full payment is due no later than 45 days before scheduled departure date of the first departing tour.

2.2 If payment isn’t made by the due date, Contiki may assume that you have cancelled and cancellation charges in accordance with clause 3 below will be levied by Contiki.

2.3 Tickets and other documents won’t be forwarded until full payment has been received by us. Documents are issued maximum of 6 weeks in advance.

2.4 In the case of Late Bookings made within 45 days of your departure from your home country, the full cost of the holiday will be payable immediately on booking. We reserve the right to provide all travel documents at the holiday departure point.

2.5 Contiki reserves the right to cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges should payments not be received within the above specified periods.

3. IF YOU CANCEL 3.1 Notice of cancellation must be made in writing to Contiki.

3.2 Your deposit is non-refundable upon cancellation by you.

3.3 Upon cancellation you will be liable to pay a fee to cover the estimate of cost and expenses incurred by us in the terms of the schedule set out hereunder. This is expressed as a percentage of the holiday price and is calculated as follows: PERIOD OF NOTICE CANCELLATION FEE More than 45 days notice: ........................... Deposit is forfeited 45-22 days: .....................................................25% of tour fare 21-8 days: .......................................................30% of tour fare 7-1 days: .........................................................50% of tour fare Day of departure: ...........................................100% of tour fare Where the percentage cancellation fee is less than the tour deposit, the cancellation fee will equal loss of deposit. If the reason for cancellation falls within the terms of any holiday insurance policy which you hold, then any such charges may, subject to the terms of your insurance policy, be refunded to you by the insurance company.

3.4 Any cancellation of additional services booked prior to and after your tour or resort booking, such as pre and post accommodation and transfers, that are cancelled within 14 days of the tour departure incur a 100% cancellation fee.

3.5 These cancellation fees are in addition to any cancellation fees that may be levied by your Travel Agent.

3.6 If flight changes are requested after the deposit has been received, or if flights are cancelled after tickets are issued, revision fees, change fees or Airline cancellation fees will be applicable and maybe in addition to the above cancellation charges.

4. IF YOU CHANGE YOUR BOOKING 4.1 If after your booking has been confirmed, you wish to change to alternate departure date or you wish to change to a different Contiki holiday, you may do so subject to availability and provided the new holiday date is also in this brochure.

4.2 A fee of R200 per person will be charged for any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed unless the change increases the value of the booking. A change of tour date or tour itinerary within 45 days of departure will be treated as a cancellation, and normal cancellation fees will apply except when the change is to an earlier departure date of equivalent or greater value in which case a R200 per person amendment fee will be charged.

4.3 A name change to a different person will be treated as a cancellation.

5. HOLIDAY DETAILS AND CONDITIONS 5.1 Please read the brochure carefully for those items included in the price. No allowance or refund can be made for meals, accommodation, excursions, etc. that you elect not to take, or when museums, shops, etc are closed. Hotel facilities may vary from place to place. Meals may vary in style.

5.2 Contiki’s holidays are specifically planned for those in the 18 through 35 age group. Consequently the facilities and activities on a Contiki holiday are not appropriate to persons outside this age bracket. If you have a question regarding the age groups, you are welcome to discuss this with a Contiki staff member.

5.3 The Company strives to provide a safe, enjoyable and memorable travel experience for all passengers. The Company welcomes passengers with special needs or disabilities.

However, please note the following: • Passengers are required to advise the Company, in advance, of any physical, medical or other special needs that require accommodation.

• All guests must ensure they are medically and physically fit for travel. The Company may impose safety requirements necessary for the safe operation of the tour. The Company may also exclude an individual from participating in a tour or an activity if that individual’s participation poses a direct threat to health or safety.

• The Company does not provide personal devices (such as wheelchairs, hearing aids or prescription eye glasses) or services of a personal nature (such as pushing a wheelchair or assistance in eating, toileting or dressing). A companion capable of providing such assistance must accompany any passenger who requires services of a personal nature.

• The Company does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical attention will be provided by a local facility at the passenger’s expense. The Company is not

responsible or liable for any losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on tour, or for the quality of the care or services received.

• Passengers should be aware some tours include rough terrain, extensive walking over cobblestone streets, uneven pavement, steps and locations which may not be easily accessible or accessible by wheelchair. During the tour, the Company may make arrangements with carriers, hotels and other independent suppliers to provide travel services.

These parties are independent entities over which the Company has no control. Accommodations on international tours may differ from those in South Africa. The Company cannot guarantee disability access or accommodations for passengers travelling on international tours.

• The Company may, in its sole discretion, decline the booking of any passenger or remove any passenger who cannot comply or refuses to comply with the Company’s terms and conditions.

The Company is not responsible for any costs incurred in the event a passenger is removed from a tour. Passengers agree not to hold the Company or any of its related entities liable for any actions taken under these terms and conditions.

5.4 You are responsible for all travel arrangements and costs to/from the point of commencement/conclusion of the holiday.

5.5 There may be times when the Contiki Representative has to make a decision in your best interests or the best interests of their group. You agree to comply with the authority and decisions of the appointed Contiki Representative and the laws of the country in which you are travelling. If you do not so comply or if, in the Contiki Representative’s opinion, you are not compatible with the general enjoyment and well being of other members on the holiday or smooth operation of the holiday itself, we reserve the right to refuse to let you continue with the holiday. We do not tolerate the possession or carriage of illegal or restricted substances (drugs). Furthermore, you agree that your fellow travellers and any Contiki Representative has the right to travel/work in a safe environment. Any threats to their safety, well being or inappropriate behaviour by you, whether verbal or physical, will be taken extremely seriously and may result in the immediate termination of your holiday. In either event, you will be responsible for your own repatriation and related costs and have no claims against us.

5.5.1 You are responsible for any costs incurred as a result of damage or excess cleaning fees related to your accommodation. You are advised to immediately report any pre-existing damage in your room to hotel staff and/or a Contiki Tour Manager as soon as it is discovered.

5.6 Where the passenger occupies a motorcoach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither the operator or service providers, agents or co-operating organisations shall be liable for any illness, injury or death or any loss or damages or claims whatsoever arising from any accident or incident, if the safety belt is not being worn at the time of the accident or incident.

5.7 It is your responsibility to have a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates required for your selected holiday before your departure as well as any necessary vaccinations and to comply with all applicable laws. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred as a result of failing to obtain necessary visas.

Any costs whatsoever regarding obtaining, replacing or changing visas whilst on tour (including accommodation, meals, flights and transfers incurred due to associated delays) are at your own expense.

5.8 You agree that our Contiki Tour Managers or Representatives may take photographs and films of you while you are on holiday and that these may be used in our Group brochures and/or advertising or publicity material without obtaining any further consent or payment in respect of such photographs and/or films.

5.9 Should you have a complaint in respect of the holiday, you should inform the Contiki Tour Manager or Contiki Representative during the course of the holiday and if the matter cannot be resolved after the representative’s best endeavours to do so during the holiday, your complaint should be made in writing to Contiki as soon as is reasonably possible after the holiday but within 42 days thereof so that your complaint can be investigated. Any claims made after the 42 day period will not be considered by Contiki. If you choose to write to Contiki via the Internet, please provide your home address so that we are able to reply to you in writing.

5.10.1 The contract and all matters arising in respect hereof shall be subject to English Law, unless we agree otherwise in writing.

5.10.2 If any provision of this contract is held invalid or unenforcable by any court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be deemed to be re-written to give effect to the same purpose within the permitted limits of the law. The validity and enforcability of the other provisions shall not be affected.

5.10.3 If you are unsuccessful in any legal action instituted against us, you agree to pay all our costs, including but not limited to, attorney/client costs.

6. INSURANCE It is compulsory that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses and evacuation expenses before you travel on a Contiki holiday. We strongly recommend your insurance also covers cancellation, personal liability and loss of personal property. Please check that the insurance covers all of the activities that you are going to be participating in. Some policies exclude certain adventure activities. This should be arranged at

the time of payment of the deposit and will, in certain circumstances, cover you against loss of deposit or cancellation fees from the date of confirmation of your booking, as shown in the insurance policy. Contiki cannot be held responsible for your failure to take out appropriate insurance. You also agree to indemnify us against all third-party claims, actions, damages and remedies which may be brought against us in respect of your participation in the holiday.

7. ILLNESS OR ABSENTEEISM In the event of your withdrawal from a holiday after the commencement as a result of illness, you must obtain a medical certificate in support of any insurance claim.

Unfortunately no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including but not limited to missed meals or sightseeing.

8. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE HOLIDAY PRICE Airfares to and from your holiday destination, airport taxes, passport and visa fees, insurance, laundry, phone calls, beverages, meals not detailed in the itinerary, tips to tour managers, representatives, drivers and local guides, items of a personal nature, excess baggage, optional excursions.

9. WEATHER CONDITIONS Under no circumstances can we be held responsible for snow or weather conditions, nor can any holiday be cancelled or amended by you at any time on the basis of snow or weather conditions.

GENERAL 1. CONTRACTING PARTIES 1.1 The Booking Conditions detailed herein contain the entire contract between you and Contiki. No representation, term, warranty or condition can be expressed or implied by reference to any other writing, advertisement or conversation. This contract may only be varied in writing by a duly authorised officer or director of Contiki.

1.2 Your contract is with us as the tour operating company.

At any time and at our complete discretion we may nominate to you in writing any other company or person to have the benefit of some or all of those provisions of this contract, which we may then specify, as if you had agreed the provisions concerned directly with that company or person in the first place as well as agreeing them with us. We may at our complete discretion assign all or any rights and liabilities arising under or by virtue of this or any other contract with you.

1.3 Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international conventions, national and international law, which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol & Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road & the Paris Convention 1962 for Hotels. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, injury, loss, damage & delay to passengers & luggage.

Enrolment in & payment for a tour shall constitute agreement & acceptance by the passenger of the terms & conditions set forth in this brochure which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company.

1.4 Contiki is not a carrier or hotelier nor does it own aircraft, hotels or coaches. All bookings with carriers, hoteliers and other service providers are subject to the terms and conditions and limitations of liability imposed by those carriers, hoteliers, and other service providers. Please note that some of these limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and loss or damage to baggage. Whilst we cannot accept any responsibility for any loss as a result of such actions or as a result of any act or omission of any such thirdparties, we will give every reasonable assistance in helping to resolve any reasonable dispute.Please also note that Contiki cannot be held responsible for the failure of any of these parties to provide facilities or services for handicapped clients (see also 5.3 under Holiday Details & Conditions).

1.5 Please note that no airline or carrier depicted or recommended in this brochure by virtue of their endorsement of this brochure represent themselves either as contracting with any purchaser of a holiday from Contiki or as having any other legal relationship with any such purchaser.

1.6 Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to print, however Contiki cannot be held responsible for printing or typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances.

2. VALIDITY The programmes advertised in this brochure are valid from June 2013 to March 2015.

3. OPERATING COMPANIES The programmes advertised in this brochure are owned and operated by: Contiki Holidays Latin America Ltd, Picquet House, St. Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands. Please note that Contiki utilises ground handlers to assist with the operation of our products. These ground handlers include: Journey Mexico (Mexico), Galakiwi (Ecuador & Galapagos Islands) and Costa Rican Trails (Costa Rica).

This brochure was published in April 2013 and supersedes any other current brochure in the market.

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contiki around

the world

How to book

Call contiki or visit your travel agent South Africa Contiki Holidays

Telephone & Fax numbers

6 Hood Avenue, Rosebank, 2196

Fax: (+27) 11 280 8460

Postal Address PO Box 413786, Craighall, 2024

Tel: (+27) 11 280 8400 Email reservations.sa@contiki.com Web contiki.com

• Your travel agent will confirm by phone with the local Contiki office that there’s space on the tour you’ve chosen. At the same time, your travel agent can book your hotel accommodation before and/or after your tour.

• At the time of booking, you must pay to your travel agent a non-refundable deposit of R1,000 per person per tour which must be sent to Contiki within 7 days. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. This will be for the land portion only.

USA & CANADA Including Hawaii Stopovers

• Once your deposit has been received, Contiki will send your travel agent confirmation of the details of the booking.

• You must pay the balance of your holiday fare to Contiki through your travel agent not less than 45 days before the departure, or at the time of booking if less than 45 days before departure.

• We will then send to your travel agent your travel vouchers and detailed information about your holiday. The documentation will be sent approximately 21 days prior to your departure.

IMPORTANT: By paying the R1,000 deposit per person per tour, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the Booking Conditions as set out on p.51 which make up the contract between you and Contiki.

Groups & special interest tours Whether you’re looking to organise a group tour to Europe, North America, Central America, Latin America, Asia, Australia or New Zealand then please have a look at the huge range of tours in our brochures. It is more than likely that at least one of our trips will fit perfectly.

As long as you are all 18-35 any date can be reserved exclusively for your group at special reduced rates - perhaps even a free trip for you. If you’re looking for something completely different for your school, university or club then just ask - we’ve been designing and running outstanding special tours for years.

Contiki loves the planet The text pages for this brochure are printed on 100% recycled paper. By doing this we’re using less trees & sending less waste to landfills. You can help too, by recycling this brochure when you’re done. Either pass it on to a friend to read, or pop it in your recycling collection. Easy.

DRIVEN BY SERVICE

Contiki Holidays is a member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.

www.TheTravelCorporation.com

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Contiki is represented in Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA. Contiki is a registered trademark of Contiki Tours International Ltd, Guernsey. © Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.K Contiki provides you with holidays & experiences of a lifetime.

1st Edition

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