Contiki Holidays Latin America eBrochure 2014-15 (Rand)

latin America 2014-2016 Small Group Adventures for 18-35’s Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Colombia, Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands

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cusco

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Most companies have taglines, slogans and jingles. At Contiki, we have a way of life. It’s called #NOREGRETS. We treat every day as a new adventure.

We build friendships that last a lifetime.

We live every day like it’s our last and leave absolutely nothing behind. #NOREGRETS isn’t just a travel philosophy. It’s at the heart of everything we do.

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Swap your 9-5 routine for amazing moments - this land was made to be explo ored. It’s a place where massive mountains roll into dense jungles. A place woven with ancient history, where the energ gy of bustling cities & vibrant locals awaken your mind & capture your heart. We’re the experts at making every moment count & no matter what kind of traveller you are, there’s an adventure here that’s made for you.

“ACTION EXPRESSES PRIORITIES” - Gandhi. It’s easy to believe in things, but much harder to live them.

They’re not just words we say, they’re words we live by: Make every moment count. You only get one shot at life, but if you do it right that’s all you’ll need.

We’re about people, not things. It’s people’s individuality, diversity & a little bit of craziness that makes the world go round.

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Life’s an adventure. Push yourself – you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

Do things with passion. Life isn’t just there to be lived; it’s there to be loved.

Be young, and stay that way no matter what your age. Always see the world through youthful eyes.

Tread lightly, respect our world & its inhabitants. Walk around the world, not over it.

Challenge everything. Disregard what seems impossible. Embrace change.

Be part of the story. Don’t sit on the sidelines – get involved & make your mark.

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WHO WE ARE, what we do & WHERE WE GO #NOREGRETS Make every moment count Your Latin Adventure Backstage Pass Blockbusters & Back streets ME Time (Free time) Do things with Passion (Our Team) Where you stay Food with Contiki Getting Around Tread lightly Online tools Save with Contiki

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CENTRAL AMERICA & MEXICO

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TRIPS

DAYS

Mexico, Belize & Guatemala Latin Legends Central Trail Mexico Grande Mexican Fiesta Yucatรกn Highlights Sol Seeker Mayan Rocker Caribbean Encounter Costa Rica Unplugged

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Machu Picchu & our Inca Trail Trek

42 DAYS

The Latin Quest The Adventurer The Explorer Galapagos & Andes Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper Galapagos Island Hopper Argentina & Brazil Experience Peru Uncovered Inca Panorama Andes & Amazon Highlights Hola Colombia

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SOUTH AMERICA

TRIPS

machu picchu

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Got a question?

Booking Conditions Contiki around the world How to book

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WORDS WE LIVE BY: Adventure isn’t just something you do, it’s an attitude. It’s getting outside your comfort zone, meeting

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new people & experiencing different cultures. It’s having the courage to go further. Life’s an adventure, so live it.

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Our Backstage Pass to Latin America.

Say yes to hotels & comfy overnight stays, and no to hostels & putting up tents.

Say yes to included flights & private transport, and no to 18-hour public bus rides.

Say yes to new travel mates your age, and no to exploring with 50-year olds.

Say yes to expert guides every step of the way, and no to missing out on local secrets.

Say yes to amazing inclusions, and no to paying extra for the essentials.

EXCLUSIVE inclusions As the original adventure travel company, we know youth travel better than anyone. No other company can give you a better experience of the real Latin America with more included.

Swap your 9-5 routine for the Inca Trail, Lake Titicaca, Sugarloaf Mountain or Iguassu Falls. You also get local access with authentic experiences like tango lessons, and we’ll also get you around in private transport, as well as included flights & other fun ways to explore this part of the world.

EXCLUSIV EX IVE E FOOD Get adventurous & delve into the stuff the locals love. We include breakfast every day, some lunches & lots of evening meals, with some quirkier treats thrown in too. From BBQs to Argentine steak, fresh homemade tortillas to delicious Peruvian ceviches made by those who know it best – feel your taste buds come alive in Latin America! And we still leave you lots of ME Time to head out & explore other eats, to your taste & budget.

EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION Our accommodation 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, like WiFi, that our travellers love. We also mix it up with our Special Stay experiences like lodges in the Colca Canyon, the Amazon jungle & the Costa Rican & Guatemalan rainforests – it’s all about fun ways to get you local.

EXCLUSIVE team Our Team of Tour Managers & expert Local Guides have the sole focus of making your trip the time of your life & giving you their insider access to each & every destination. You’ll love their passion for exploring & opening your eyes & ears to all things Latin for the best possible travel experience.

EXCLUSIVE Options We know that doing your own thing is important when you travel, so we provide you with loads of time to create your path – we call it ME Time, because it’s all about you. If you’re keen to chill, you can. Or, if something more upbeat calls, then that’s cool too. Want to whitewater raft, kayak through the Amazon or Caribbean, hike a volcano?

That’s just a taste of what’s to come.

We’ve hand-picked a range of treats unique to the places you visit, which we organise for you – plus, our exclusive access means great prices you won’t get elsewhere. It’s all about making it count.

WORDS WE LIVE BY: Without a healthy disregard for the impossible we would be just another travel

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BACKSTAGE

PASS to LATIN AMERICA

your

backstage pass exclusive inclusions are highlighted on each trip page

company, and that’s nowhere near good enough for us. That’s why we challenge everything.

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EVERY TRIP IS PACKED FUll Of the ICONIC SIGHTS, THE HIDDEN GEMS & THE ultimate EXPERIeNCEs, all included, on us.

Latin America is brimming with spectacular sights & amazing stuff to do.

We’ll make sure you see & do it all. We have all the iconic sights you want to see sorted, along with parts you wouldn’t get to without a local friend in the know. And on top of that, it’s all included. With Contiki you get incredible value that can’t be matched when you go it alone, or with anyone else.

In-depth, real experiences Included orientations at every stop mixed with our Local Guides & Tour Manager knowledge will dig beneath the surface in every destination. Add to this the ultimate sights & delicious meals that only this part of the world offers, and you’re set for the experience of a lifetime.

Exclusive experiences Loads of our included experiences can’t be found anywhere else. Who else would take you for a tango lesson, or get you whitewater rafting, or on a favela tour in Rio, or on a sunset boat cruise? All included as part of your trip.

Amazing experiences, all included.

– Visit Cristo Redentor & explore Rio’s favelas – Whitewater raft in Costa Rica – Learn to tango in Buenos Aires – Experience sunrise at Machu Picchu – Explore World Heritage sites like Belize Barrier Reef, Tikal, Antigua, Monte Alban, Oaxaca & Quito – Sunset boat cruise in Acapulco – Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán

Experie ence some of ou ur exclusive inclusions. Visit contiki.com/ latininclusion ns or downl load the fre ee Layar r app & scan this page..

– Explore a sacred highland temple in Chiapas – Explore the unique floating islands of Lake Titicaca – Learn to make delicious tortillas in Lake Atitlán – Explore ancient Mayan sites in Mexico

And that’s just the start...

WORDS WE LIVE BY: We get one shot at life, but if you do it right, that’s

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BACKSTAGE

PASS exclusives ✓ inclusions Experience ancient Incan culture fir irsst hand as we explore thee fl th floa oa ati t ng isl slan ands of Lake Titicac aca, a Peru. Take a boat ride ri d to Uros & Taquile le islands & mee e t the friendly locals to exper e ienc ncce th heir in ncr c ed edib ible le & u uni niqu q e way of life.

Whi Wh W hiit h tew te ewa ew at ate ter raft te ra af aft ftin ft ing ng n g, Cost ost os s a Ric iica ca ca

Make a splassh as you rid de thee rapids of the Sarapiquí River. Thi h s ar area ea is kn nown n as THE place for those who love to hit the wat ater e & raft. With your expert guide leading the charge, prep paree your urse self for an adrenaline rus u h!

Su Sun u ris se at Mac achu ach hu Piicc cc chu hu hu

No words can an nd descr c ib be th thee feeling of experiienccin i ga Ma ach chu u Pi Picc cchu sun u ri rise s & watching the mist lifting ng ove ver the mountain - you’ll just have to do it yourself.

Th he bes st of latin america in yo our po ocket. Download our Sh Shou ho t app & get the most out o your of r trip with Contiki. c ntiki.com/app co p PUE PU ERTO TO MA M LDONADO

all you need. That’s why we always make every moment count.

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ME

ME Time = free time, and it’s exactly that.

It means having the freedom to choose.

Whether it’s relaxing at the beach or in a café, heading off to explore the local market down the road or getting a locally guided tour, our Backstage Pass will ensure you get your fix, with the inside word on where to go & what to do.

Really want to make every moment count? Our ME Time optionals give you the chance to take your trip to a whole new level with must-do experiences & it’s your call on what that level is! You could be diving with sharks one day, ziplining through jungles the next before hang gliding in Rio! But if that’s not really your thing, then how about kayaking in the Amazon, horseriding, or just exploring followed up with a chocolate making lesson? Our exclusive access means you’ll get great deals & your ME Time optionals are all organised by us.

WORDS WE LIVE BY: At Contiki, we are young. But being young isn’t always about age. It’s about a

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BACKSTAGE

KAYAKING, the caribbean

PASS exclusives ✓ OPTIONS ME TIME OPTIONALS Look out for the “Don’t Miss” call outs on our trip pages for some great tips on how to spend your ME Time. ME Time optionals available per trip are highlighted by the M symbol in our itineraries & include:

Iguassu Falls

• Snorkelling, the Caribbean • Volcano hiking, Antigua • Chocolate making lesson • ATV adventure, Costa Rica • Surf lessons, Costa Rica Plus loads more!

ZIPLININ NG

volcano hike, antigua

Want inspiration for r your ME Time? Visit con ntiki. com m/latino optio ons or do ownload d the fre ee Lay yar app & sca an this pa age.

SURF LESSONS

Please note: e ME E Tim me opti p ona on l acti c vit v ties are not incclud u ed in the h pr p ice of yourr trip. They ey are run byy 3 3rd party operattors & on occasions, ffor o som o e of the th act ac ivi vitie ti s, ttravellers may ay be requir equ ed to sign ign a waive ver to part artici ic pate. Beffore o you leave it’s important that you checkk yo your ins i ura rance ce inclu nc des de yo our participa ation on in in adve adv ntu ure act activities & be aware are that some of our optionals ca can be physically demanding nding & the h ref eforee ma mayy invo nvolvee somee risk.

• Kayaking, the Amazon • Ziplining, Costa Rica • Hike the Inca Trail, Peru • Sugarloaf Mountain, Brazil • Speedboat ride,

amazon JUNGLE lodge

state of mind. Being young is treating every day as a chance to live life out loud, utterly & completely.

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meet EdWard

meet gaby

Tour Manager “I love my job because it perfectly links the things I enjoy the most: Nature, fun people & Costa Rica!

My days are spent doing what I love – opening travellers’ eyes to new experiences. Our groups love every minute of the trip, from the howling monkeys in the morning to the thrilling experience of whitewater rafting.

Travellers enjoy the experiences here - our days can vary from a refreshing swim in majestic waterfalls to fascinating walks on hanging bridges through the cloud forest – it’s nature at its best.”

Tour Manager Speaking three languages – Quechua, her firstt Inca a language, Spanish & English – Gaby loves Peru & sharing it with Contiki travellers. “I love my job b beca ause s I feel passionate about my culture & heritage. You u’l’lll enjoy Peru because it’s one of the most amazzing places on Earth, with a unique rich cultural heritage, beau uti tifu f l cities & wonderful cuisine”.

meet Clarisa Tour Manager

meet our team. visit contiki.com/team

Clarisa has an insatiable love for all things travel & all things Peru. “I was born in Cusco, the famous capital of the Incan Empire. I’m very passionate to share my culture, my amazing country rich in customs, traditions & absolutely beautiful landscapes.

Adventure runs through my veins & making travellers feel at home is something that I love – I’m in love with my job & my company because I can be myself.”

WORDS WE LIVE BY: For the Contiki team, the connections & friendships we’ve made around the world mean we work

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BACKSTAGE

PASS exclusives ✓ team

H meet our amazing team - we include both tour managers & expert local guides as part of every trip.

Everyone loves that friend who knows where to go & what to do, and 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.

Our team takes care of all the boring stuff like sorting hotels, dinner reservations & bookings, to ensure you don’t miss an opportunity to make every moment 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 who complement our Tour Managers perfectly – it’s knowledge that you can’t find on the web.

expert local guides

So you can relax & enjoy what you came to do – take on new experiences in some of Latin America’s coolest spots.

no compulsory tipping, only passionate service & exclusive local knowledge.

better together & have fun doing it. That’s why people are at the heart of everything we do – we’re about people.

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WHAT MAKES US · Ho otels s · Lodges · Special Stays · Twin-share · no tents ever!

(Justt a co (Jus omforta abl blee ec e oo camp overnight with enn su suittes) Amazing facilities & eats Great facilities are key (think pools, bars & WiFi) & waking up to breakfast every morning means you’ll start the day out right (think fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, pancakes, coffee, fresh juice & more). It’s alll about comfort & ffacilities iliti that th t ensure you gett a greatt night’s sleep, every night.

Keep it local An nd th theyy’re al a so uni n que, e, ccut utee & re refl flec ect the surr rrou und ndings you o vis isit, liike a Col olca ca C Can a yon L dg Lo ge & a co olo oni nial al hotel el iin Ca Cart rtag agen ena. We keeep e itt lo loca c l to oo, w with ou ourr au auth then enti tic ov over e nights like ourr Ama m zo zon n Jungle Spe peci cial al Sta ay.

With comfort & location each night, our accommodation is another thing that makes us different from the rest. It’s all about places our travellers love coming home to. From our Hotels & Lodges to our Special Stay experiences, see why travelling with us means you’ll always sleep easy. experience our 5 unique special stays Discoverr a jungle D lodg d e in the Peruvian Am Amaz azon az on Arrive in Pu A uerto Mal a do d na ado o whe heere yyou ou’l ou ’lll me meet et your Loc yo o all Guiide dess th then en iit’ t’ss st stra aig ght to th thee ri rive verr ve to o rid i e deep ep iint nto nt o th he ra rain info fore r st & jjun re u gl gle! e! Y You ou’l ’lll soon so on see w why hy thi hiss pl plac a e is tthe ac he p per e fe er f ct hav a en to rel e axx. Wi With th tthe h jjun he ungl glee as you ourr ba backkdr drop op, th the open op en wal a le led d ro r om oms (c (com om mpl p et etee wi with th priva ate enn suit su ite it te fa fac acciililiti lilties tiies) & co omf mfy be beds ds are tthe h ideal he a place pla ace to unw win nd.

Ourr Gu Ou Guat attem e al a an Jun ngl gle e Lo Lodg dge e – ou our ne n ewe west stt S Spe peci c al Sta ci ay ex expe perien ence ce! ce Ju ung n le Lod odge in n the heart off tthe he Tikkal Nat ationa al Parrk rk ser erve vess up u a rain nforesst ca cano nopy p inclu uding n ziplin ness… wh w y not!! Relax ax in co comf m ort ass you mf drift to to sleep e to th ep t e soun unds ds o off th he fo fore resst.

Going solo solo??

Jung gle llod odge ge exp per erie ie enc nce, Cos osta ta aR Ric icca ica

We don’t cha harg rgee si sing n le supplements for solo trav a ellers. We’l ’lll match you with a same sex room-m mat a e, or if you want, you can always optt fo op forr th thee pr priiv ivacy of your own ro oom o for a little extra t a – iit’ t’ss up to you.

Get into the great at out utdo d or do orss in com mfo fort rt!! Yo rt You’ u’’llll u’ll love our Costa Rican lodge, gr grea ea at faci cili iliti liliti t es in paradi pa d se get you right to the heart of the ju un n ngl glle! e!

Visit contiki.com/latinamerica /latinamerica for more.

Stay S St tayy d dee eep ee p in n tthe hee hea h e rt of the jungle in our co ool Cost Co sta st a Ri Rica can ca n rain rain ra info orreest eco o-ccam mp, w wit ith it h qu quee e nsize si zed ze d be beds ds,, en ds n-ssui uite tee ffac acilililit ac itie iees & p prriv ivat atee covered co terr te rrac rr aces ac es w wit ith it h co comf mfor mf orta or tab ta ble ch ble chai airss. You’ll really rela re laxx in thi la h s tr trop opic op ical al p par a ad dis ise.

holiday inn cancun

costa rican jungle lodge

colca canyon lodge

Sleep easy in our ra rain inforest eco-ca ec ecocamp amp p, Co C sta a Ri R ca a casona del lago, guatemala

Go loccal a witth our rustic lodge in the Co olca Ca C nyon, Peru Wake up to panoramic Colca Canyon vi view e s ew from our cute lodge in the hee h h hea eartt off ancient Inca territory. Its tss rrem e ot em ote t location means it’s the perf pe rfec rf e t way to get away from it all. Spacious ec rooms mean you’re always comfy & the friendly staff will ensure it’s a home away from home.

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BACKSTAGE

PASS exclusives ✓ accommodation

hotels & special stay experiences

AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

amazon jungle lodge, peru

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LOOK OUT FOR THIS SYMBOL FOR OUR AMAZING OVERNIGHTS ON EACH TRIP

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CEVICHE

BACKSTAGE

PASS exclusives ✓ food

We love food, so we include more. · breakfast daily · lots of lunches · many included dinners & extra special meals Let us take you on a journey of flavours, sights & sounds – the way the locals eat.

We include breakfast each day – think scrambled eggs or omelettes, fresh fruit, cereals, yoghurt, breads, meats & more. We also include some lunches & lots of evening meals, but we still leave lots of time for our travellers to head out & explore on their own time & budget.

We include loads of special experiences too, from succulent Argentinian steak & a tango lesson, sizzling BBQs, to fresh tortillas, and even Peruvian ceviche. And in your ME Time, hit the streets & follow your nose – our team of Latin American based experts will help you uncover the best spots 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.

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BACKSTAGE

PASS exclusives ✓ inclusions access Say farewell to cramped 18-hou ur bus rides. we get you where e you need to be, fast, so you experience more. All included in your trip price.

Why we’re different • Pr P iv i at atee trran ansp sp por ort • Trai Train Tr n & bo boat at rrid ides id es • Fun n way ayss to g get et a aro roun ro und un d lilike k ke lo oca als d do o – tr tric icic ic iclo ic los, lo s, b bik iikkes e & mor oree • Inc nclu lude lu ded de d fl flig ight ig htss ht (lo oo okk out forr th fo this is sym ymbo boll on o bo our ur ttri rips ri p) ps

included flights between some destinations The wa wayy we traveel is dif iffferent from our competitors. To be honest, travelling on a public bus for 18 hours is no fun forr an anyyon yone, ne, no matter how local you want to get. t We know your time in this part of the world is limited, that’s why nearly all of our trips include internal flights in your overall price so

we ccan an get you ou tto the places you want to be,, fa be fast st.

For th For thee ti time m s when you u aree on the road ad,, ocean n or riv iver er we ma ake ssur u e it’ss all pri riva riv vate va t tra rans n po ort rt rt, so o yyou ou are cch hilling & rech char har argi ging gi ng g ffo or tthe or hee nexxt h dest de stin st inat in ation with your new-found fr frie iend ie end ds..

Lati La tin n Amercia has some serioussly ccoo ol wa w ys to

geet arround nd d so we w inc ncclu lud de them de m to too o – th hin nk tricciclo tric os, ccan an noe o s, an nd d cab bllee cars. s IIt’s al alll p pa artt o off th he ad dve vent ntur nt u e.

Wee aveerra W age aro roun und 30 peoplee pe perr grrou o p on n ou ur Me Mexi xico xic co tri rips p and ps nd no moree tha h n 30 30 on the the rest re st,, wh st whic ich ic h iss thee p peer erfe fect ctt sizze to exp xplo xplo loree wiitth ea ach ch regio eg gio ion n & ge get am amon ngs gstt it all!!

fun f fu un lo l local oc ca al w wa ways ay ys s to travel to t ra r av ve el

private coaches, minibuses & vans

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BOAT RIDES

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CONTIKI HAS AN INSATIABLE APPETITE FOR DISCOVERING NEW THINGS IN EVERY NOOK AND CRANNY OF THE WORLD. To continue sharing our discoveries with young travellers for decades and centuries to come, we need to respect and protect those places through everything that we do.

Through our conservation programs, Contiki Cares, we’ve done some incredible things to help the world’s oceans, but we’re just getting started. Check out Contiki Cares efforts in Latin America & to find out more visit contiki.com/contikicares

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20 | 21

We seek inspiration from some incredible humans. From renowned environmentalists & explorers taking on the world to our own individuals taking the charge on sustainability. The people who get involved with Contiki Cares inspire us to be the best we can be.

cÉline cousteau Céline Cousteau is an environmental activist, explorer & documentary film maker.

She’s also the granddaughter of legendary ocea oc eano nogr graphe her Ja Jacq cquess Couste t au & a big source of inspiration for Contiki. We are excited to have partnered with Céline for four years now. Her passion & connection with wi th b bot oth h ou ourr tr trav avel elle lers rs,, te team am & tthe he o oce cean an never ceases to amaze us.

mar leaders Thee M Th Meeso esoam so oam amer eric er ican ic an Reeef (M (MAR AR) R) Lead Le ader ad ersh er sh hip p Pro ogr g am suppo up ppo ort rtss yo y un ung, ng, loc ocal al e vi en v ro ronm nm menta en nta taliliist stss wo work r in rk ing g ha and ndss on so to pro rote tect te ctt thee 6 621 2 -m 21 mililee lo l ng g Sou outh th Amer Am eric ican ic an n ree eef. f. Con onti tiki h tiki has as b bee een ee n a pr prou rou oud d su upp p or orte teer siincce 20 ter 2010, 10 he 10 h lp lpin lpin ing g le lead a er ad erss wiith fina fina fi anc nccia ia ial al su supp supp ppor ppor o t & the the skkills th ilills tthe h y neeed he ed to s cccee su eed d pr prof o es of essi sion si onal nal allyy.

our team Cont Co ntik nt ikii offfi ik f ce cess ac acro ro osss the h g glo lobe obe be aree deve de velo ve lopi lopi ping ng lloc o al oc a issed e eenv nvir nv iron ir onme on m n me nttal ini niti tiat ti ativ at ives iv es un nd deer th he gu guid idee of id o R R:E :Evo :E vo olv lvee le lead ead ader erss – th er t e c ossen iind ch ndiv nd ivvid i ua als who ho’v ’vve prrov oven een n th heeir ccar ae an nd co comm m it mm itme m nt tto me o sust su ust stai aina ai ina nabi bilility bi liittyy. Thes Th hes esee R:E R: Evol Evol olve ve lea e de ders rss evveen ha ad ha and n ss-on o ttra on ra ainin in nin ing g w th the wi h MAR Lea e de ders rs o on n th heir eir pr ei proj ojjeccts & sp pent ent a week weeek in in Me Mexico xxiico c wiittth h Cé Céline C lilin nee C n Cou oust ou oust stea tea au u.

Insp In spir sp irrin ng mu much ch! Itt’ss o ch! one ne of th the ma many ny w ny way ayss ay we’r we ’rre em e po powe weri we ring ri ng go our sta aff to ma make ccha make hang ha hang nges es es from fr om the gro roun und un nd up up.. He Helll o he hero roes! ro o

from the forests to the deserts & everything in between. We’re proud to support projects protecting the world’s oceans – many of which are based in magical Latin America.

We’ve done some great things In 2012, we launched our inaugural Earth Month Expedition – giving travellers & our team the chance to celebrate Earth Month & get hands-on with our projects. 2012’s trip explored the Mesoamerican Reef system in Mexico, in 2013 we visited the Galapagos Islands & 2014 is all about exploring beautiful Costa Rica. Check out contiki.com/contikicares

MAR LEADERS Th Mesoamer The e ican R Reeff (MA MAR R) Le Lead ader e shi hip P Program sup uppo port rtss yo youn u g, g lloc ocal al env nvir iron onme ment ntal alis ists ts working hands on to protect MAR. MAR is the second largest reef system in the world that spans 1000km of coastline along Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. Protecting this jaw-dropping corner of the Earth is vital in the defence ag gaiins nstt st stor orms ms and ccoa oast stal erosi s on a and nd iin n pr prot otec ecti ting ng a m myr yriad of d dif iffe fere rent nt sspe peci cies es o off co cora ral,l, ffis ish, h, m natees, mammoth whale sharks, several species of sea turtles and other amazing marine life. ma

SharksCount Off all the he mililli llilion onss of on of a ani nima ni mals ma mals ls on tth he pl plan anet an ett, sh shar arks ar kss are re amo m ng tthe hee m mos ostt mi os m su s nd der erst stoo ood. oo d In 20 2 13 13 Cont Co ntik nt ikii he ik h lp lped ed kkic icck of o f Sh Shar arks ar kkssCo C un untt iin n the Galap allap a pag goss Isslllan an ands ndss. Th T e pr prog og gra ramm mm me em empo po owe wers r divvers rs ers er & sn snor orrkeelll er erss to o ideent ntif ify, ify, y cou o nt & llog og g tthe he ssha hark ha rkss th rk hey ssee ee in th the wa wate ate ter, r, w wit ith it h da data ta a ccon ontr on t ib but u in i g to maki ma king ki ng a rea ng eall di d fffer e een nce to th t e pr prot otec ot tec ecti tion ti on o n of sh shar arrks g glo loba lo ballllly. ba y

SEA TURTLE CONSERVANCY ★ Con nti tiki k ’ss n ki new ew wes est pr est p oj ojec ectt ec From Apr From prilil 201 014 4 we we’r ’ree ta taki kiing n a ano notth no her exc xcit itin ing in g st steep ep ffor orrwa ard in ou ourr ef effo f rt fo rtss to to sup uppo po ortt o oce cea ce an con an o se serv rvvat rvat atio io on, n, pa art r ne neri ring ri ng witth th thee Seea Tu Turt rtle rt l Con le onse serv se rvvan a cyy ((ST STC) ST C) – the h old des est & mo most st accccompl om mpl plis ishe is heed seea tu t rttle orga or ga g ani nisa sati tiion in th t e wo w rlrld. d. Thee S d.

STC TC ccon TC ondu duct du ctss reese ct sear arch h tth hat ha ha hass be been en iins nstr ns trum u en um enta tal in ta n ssav aving av avin in ng sea seea tu turt rtle rt tle les es from eext fr xtin xt i ct in ctio ion th io thro roug ro u ho ug h ut tthe he C Car arib ar ib bbe bean an, as well an, elll as as C Cen entr en t al Ame tr meri rica ca. We a are ree p pro roud ro ud to be ttea eami ea miing m n up with wi th h the h irr o org rgan rg anis an isat is atio at i n to sup io ppo port rt tthe heir he ir amazi ma azi zing ng g ini niti iti t at ativves e , re rese rese sear a ch ar ch & ttra rain ra ain nin ng of marrin ne biol biol bi o og gis ists ts. s.

Check out our Galapagos video at Contiki.com/ contikicares or download the free app & scan this page

20-21 Treadright_Cares Latin.indd 3

16/04/2014 12:47

JOIN US every way to stay connected We know there’s more to your travels than the time you spend away, so there are a number of exclusive Contiki online tools to help you get the most out of your travel experience. Find out more at contiki.com.

timeline Create a shared group timeline of your travel adventures.

Download our App today - It’s Free.

meetups

Shout! brings together the photos, videos & updates of everyone travelling on the same trip to create one epic story of your group’s adventure. Save every moment & create a real-time timeline of your awesome travels to share with your friends back home.

Find out more at contiki.com/app

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

Travel tools View your trip itinerary, maps as well as connecting with your travellers before, during & after your trip. Plus more. Looking for a restaurant? A museum? The population of Guatemala? Shout! has you covered.

our digital goodies BrochUrEs

meetups Meet the rest of your travellers before you go in our trip-specific MeetUps. Access it on the go with our iPhone & Android app, ‘Shout!’. contiki.com/meetups

Create a personalised Contiki e-brochure.

Choose the trips you want to compare, then download or share on Facebook & Twitter. contiki.com/brochures

Reviews Don’t just take our word for it, check out trip reviews & see what our past travellers have to say. contiki.com/reviews

Check-in Check in for your trip before you go. It’ll save you time & paperwork on the first day of your trip & makes sure we have your important details on file. contiki.com/checkin

We

WiFi

WiFi available at many of the places we stay means it’s easy to keep in touch on your adventure.

Head to ‘The Exchange’ for the lowdown on all the latest music, fashion, food, nightlife & so much more from the places you visit around the globe.

Searching for the hottest trends, the best spots to get your fashion or food fix? We’ve got you covered.

We pull together the insider goss from a host of special guest contributors including some of the coolest brands, celebrities, bloggers, our travellers & our own Contiki team out on the road.

It’s everything you’ll need to know from the moment you touch down.

social media facebook

youtube

twitter

INSTAGRAM

Got a question? Our FB team would love to help out

Follow our vloggers & get inspired for your travels

#Contiki on your tweets, we read everything

Follow @Contiki – see the world through our eyes

facebook.com/contiki

youtube.com/contiki

twitter.com/contikisa

instagram.com/contiki

22-23 Online_Savings Latin.indd 2

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22 | 23

WAYS TO

4SAVE

1. Pay early & save more

Book & pay early for the best deal on your trip & airfares. Don’t miss out as these discounts are subject to availability & may be withdrawn. Check contiki.com for latest availability.

#1 SAVE UP TO R9740*

Pay in full on or before 3rd July 2014 & save up to 10%

#2 SAVE UP TO R7305*

Pay in full on or before 4th September 2014 & save up to 7.5%

2. Travelling Again Travelled with us or one of our sister companies before?

Welcome back to the family with a 5% discount.

See p.62 for more.

3. two or More Trips Keep exploring! Book 2 Contiki trips, 7 days or longer at the same time & get R300 off your second booking.

4. Book with Friends More is merrier! Book with 4 or more friends & everyone saves 5%, 7 or more everyone saves 7.5%, 10 or more everyone saves 10% or invite a lucky 11th friend for free.

gold seal protection Our Gold Seal means that if you cancel your trip before you leave South Africa, 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 R90 for each day that you miss & will cover your air ticket costs. Travel Agent fees may apply. See more on p.62.

22-23 Online_Savings Latin.indd 3

Machu PICCHU

The facts: All these discounts apply to the land portion of your trip price only. (This excludes taxes, included flight costs, extra accommodation, Inca Trail Permit & optional activities. Your trip price does not include the costs of international flights that start or end your trip). You can combine loyalty discounts (‘Travelling Again’), group discounts (‘Book with Friends’), multi trip discounts (‘2 or more’) & early payment (‘Pay Early’) discounts on trips of 7 days or longer. ‘Pay Early’ savings only apply to departures on or after 31st October 2014, they do not apply to bookings made within 45 days of trip departure & may not be combined with Last Minute Deals. Group discounts (‘Book with friends’) is available on all trips. * Pay early savings of R9740 & R7305 based on The Latin Quest p.44-45.

16/04/2014 16:22

CENTRAL costa rica, guatemala, belize & mexico National Parks, incredible marine life & cloud forests to beachES, volcanoes & adrenaline - Central America & mexico have got it.

Mix this up with adventures to ancient ruins, beautiful beaches & epic c nig ghts out we’ve got all the hotspots cov vered.

Wanting a short adventu ure, or an in-depth cultural experience wit th a twist? We’ve got options to suit everyone’s s taste. how we travel & WHY CHOOSE US where wher e do we g go? o?

Co C osstta Ri Rica & Mex xic ico, o, p plu lus us ou ur new w d sttin de inat ations ffor atio at or 201 0 5 5:: Gua ate tem ma ala a & Beliz elliz i e

Sta ing Stay wher ere? e?

• Mi Mix x of of twin-sh hare are ho ar hotel hote tels te ls & Spe p cial ciiall Sta Sta tay tay ex e xp pe erien riien ence ce es. s. IIt' t s alll ab t' bou out comf comf m orrt – a placce yo you' u lll e u' enj njoy nj oy com omin ing g ho home me to

How lo How long ng & wh when en

• Lo ong ng & ssho hort ho rt e exp xpe xp errie i nc nces es ffro es ro om 6–2 25 5d day ayss ay

how we how trav tr avel el

• Priva vate te air con ondi diti tion oned ed coa oach ches es,, mi m ni coac co acche hess & va ans n , so some m incclu me ude ded dfl flig ig ght htss & bo b at rid ides des es forr ffun u w un way ayss to tra ay rave rave el

MORELIA MEXICO MICHOACÁN

GUERRERO

Eat Ea

• Brre eak akfa f sstt d dai aily ai ly ly • Lo Lotss of in i cl clud ud ded d din nne ners rs & sp spec e ia iall lo oca c l me m al as

Yo our tea eam m

• Tour To ourr Man a ag ager er,, Dr Driv ivver e & Loc ocal a Gui u de d s in man a y deest stin inat in atio ions io nss n

024-025 Intro C.America.indd 2

IXTAPA

MEXICO CITY TAXCO Oaxaca

ACAPULCO OAXACA

TEHUANTEPEC

16/04/2014 12:49

24 | 25

AMERICA 10 GREAT TRIPS FROM 6 TO 25 DAYS 6 NEW trips FOR 2015 to BELIZE & GUATEMALA

Nicaragua

YUCATÁN

CANCUN

MERIDA

ARENAL SARAPIQUI TORTUGUERO

QUINTANA ROO

GULF OF MEXICO

MONTEVERDE GULF OF MEXICO

Guatemalan Rainforest

BELIZE

SAN JOSÉ

CAYE CAULKER

SAN CRISTOBAL

MANUEL ANTONIO

COSTA RICA Panama

CHIAPAS

SANTA ELENA

PACIFIC OCEAN

GUATEMALA

LAGO ATITLAN PACIFIC OCEAN

Honduras

ANTIGUA El Salvador

CHECK OUT CONTIKI.COM/LATIN FOR MORE

024-025 Intro C.America.indd 3

16/04/2014 12:49

NEW TRIP 2 FLIGHTS INCLUDED THE CARIBBEAN

25 Days 3 countries From R65449pp* R2618 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R6050. See p.23 for details

MEXICO BELIZE GUATEMALA

CANCUN 3

MERIDA 1 YUCATÁN

Playa del Carmen

GULF OF MEXICO

MORELIA 1

QUINTANA ROO

MICHOACÁN

2

MEXICO CITY 2

IXTAPA GUERRERO

ACAPULCO 2

Guatemalan Rainforest

1 TAXCO Oaxaca 2 Monte Alban OAXACA

Mitla

SAN CRISTOBAL 2

Those who live for the great outdoors will get a true fix on a volcano hike in Antigua! Comfy shoes for this hike are a must, as well as your camera – an absolute necessity!

Visit contiki.com/mexico-belize-guatemala

026-027 Mexico_Belize_Guatemala.indd 2

Flores

2 CAYE CAULKER

BELIZE

CHIAPAS

Chiapas

1 SANTA ELENA

Comitan

TEHUANTEPEC 1

don’t miss

Belize City

1

LAGO ATITLAN 1

GUATEMALA

PACIFIC OCEAN

2 ANTIGUA

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

9 World Heritage sites visited

16/04/2014 16:23

26 | 27

H

ola amigos! Take the maximum Mexican dosage & explore it all, with a dash of Belize & Guatemala in the mix to keep things fresh. It is jam packed full of culture, flavours & World Heritage sites… our experiences will have your Instagram updates going out of control!

C. AMERICA & mexico Cholula

25 days

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

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 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 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.

026-027 Mexico_Belize_Guatemala.indd 3

•

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 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 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

•

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. Tonight, party in great bars & dance clubs ’til the sun comes up. Hotel (B,D) M Snorkelling & zipline adventure Day 13: Cancun to Caye Caulker. Adios Mexico, but we’ll be back! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto Belize. We’ll park up on this Caribbean island, where the motto is “go slow.” Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife!

Hotel (B,D) Experience the Belize Barrier Reef

•

Day 14: Caye Caulker. The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split” where

MEXICO, BELIZE & GUATEMALA

sipping & sunbathing is the scene! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunset boat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef

•

Day 15: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest.

Next up, Guatemala’s Peten via Belize City! On arrival at our awesome Jungle Lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines… why not! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,D) Stay in Tikal National Park

•

Day 16: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores). Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area or you could explore the magnificent jungle ruins, before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B,D) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining experience

•

Day 17: Santa Elena to Antigua. From the relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Skip the queues & head straight for the unique beauty & relaxed vibe of World Heritage Antigua. Experience the historic & beautiful town, with its rooftop flowerbeds, horse drawn carriages & cobblestones. Hotel (B) Sightseeing tour of colonial Antigua

•

Day 18: Antigua. With the day all yours, see the sights & tick those boxes. Adventure seekers can hike a volcano or ride mountain bikes. Or if you want to relax you could try making local native chocolates or shop for traditional textiles.

Hotel (B) M Hike the Pacaya volcano Day 19: Antigua to Lago Atitlán. We’ll take a private boat to a lakeside Mayan community & meet local artisans who’ll teach us to make yummy tortillas by hand. Afterwards, relax on a hammock or try paragliding for epic views! Hotel (B) Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán & learn to make tortillas

•

Day 20: Lago Atitlán to San Cristobal de las Casas.

We’ll make our way through small Mayan communities of Guatemala’s highlands before we reach the beautiful & rugged territory of Chiapas.

Next on the list, the evergreens & cool cultural capital of San Cristobal de las Casas via

Comitan! Hotel (B) Visit the cute town of Comitan

•

Day 21: San Cristobal de las Casas. Adventurers could try horseback riding or mountain biking this morning, then we’ll visit the Mayan hillside communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan. Tonight try some traditional Tamales Chiapanecos before hitting the town. Get festive!

Hotel (B,D) Enter a sacred highland temple to experience ancient traditions in Chiapas M Horseback ride the evergreen highlands of Mexico

•

Day 22: San Cristobal de las Casas to Tehuantepec.

After a morning relaxing, we’ll descend from the forested hills into the beautiful coastal plains of Tehuantepec, where you’ll visit the city square. This evening, chill by the pool before a delicious local meal. Hotel (B,D) Day 23: Tehuantepec to Oaxaca. First up we head to World Heritage Oaxaca then it’s onto Matatlan. Later we head to Mitla, where sacred rites were once carried out among the geometrical stonework, still intact. We’ll discover colonial architecture this evening, stopping at the local market for some

delicious chapulines…yum!

Hotel (B) Visit the Zapotec religious centre Mitla Taste fiery mescal & sample spicy chapulines in the valley of Oaxaca Locally guided walking tour of colonial Oaxaca

• • •

Day 24: Monte Alban.

Discover local museums & shops before we visit Monte Alban, built on a mountaintop. Famous for its traditional crafts, we will visit a local workshop before our last night…Salud! Hotel (B,D) Visit the UNESCO site Monte Alban & discover a local workshop

•

Day 25: Oaxaca to Mexico City. This morning we travel to the centre of the ancient Aztec universe.

We’ll take a panoramic tour of World Heritage Puebla, then head to Cholula. Choose to enjoy a relaxed lunch in the small town plaza or enter the ruins & explore the ancient tunnels (entrance fee not included). This evening, we arrive Mexico City, where you can say adios to your amigos! (B) Visit Cholula where the church Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios stands above the buried pyramid Tlachihualtepetl

•

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

backstage pass Incuded in your trip price: 24 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 23 nights in twin-share hotels 37 meals: 24 breakfasts (B), 13 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager plus local guides in some destinations 2 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • Acapulco catamaran cruise • Cruise on a ‘Trajinera’ & discover Xochimilco • Tour the Pyramids of Teotihuacan • Relax on a horse drawn carriage ride in Merida

How much & when

• Sunset boat cruise

Code: MCMC 2015/16 Start Mexico City

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

65449 65449 65449 65449 65449 65449 65449

2015 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug

14 14 18 23 27 18 22

Start Mexico City

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

2015 10 7 12 16 21 11 15

Oct 17 Nov 10 Dec 5 ● Dec 29

65449 65449

2016 Jan 16 Feb 27

• Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza

Feb 9 Mar 22

67415 67415

• Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán • Taste fiery mescal, sample spicy chapulines & learn to make tortillas • Enter a sacred highland temple in Chiapas Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

* 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 R17620.

Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Mexico City approx.

6:00pm. ● Trip spends Xmas in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): departing Mexico US$30, entering Belize (by ferry) US$5, leaving Belize for Guatemala US$1, entering & departing Guatemala US$3.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

ME TIME optionals M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean M Ride a horse drawn carriage through World Heritage Antigua M Hike a volcano (availability subject to lava flow) M Paraglide Lake Atitlán M Mountain bike the cloud forests of San Cristobal M Ride horseback among the Maya See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

16/04/2014 16:23

NEW TRIP 2 FLIGHTS INCLUDED tikal

18 Days 3 countries From R52675pp* R2927 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R4735. See p.23 for details

MEXICO BELIZE GUATEMALA

CANCUN 3

MERIDA 1 YUCATÁN

Playa del Carmen

GULF OF MEXICO QUINTANA ROO

MEXICO CITY 1

Guatemalan Rainforest

Belize City

1

Oaxaca 2

XXXXX

Monte Alban OAXACA

Swim...

In a Mexican cenote! These beautiful underground reservoirs are a must do – great for a refreshing dip.

Visit contiki.com/latin-legends

028-029 Latin Legends.indd 2

Mitla

SAN CRISTOBAL 2

Flores BELIZE

CHIAPAS

Chiapas

1 SANTA ELENA

Comitan

TEHUANTEPEC 1

LAGO ATITLAN 1

GUATEMALA

2 ANTIGUA

PACIFIC OCEAN

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

2 CAYE CAULKER

8 World Heritage sites visited

16/04/2014 16:24

28 | 29

D

o a lap of the Central American circuit.

Explore the hotspots of Mexico & two of our newest destinations, Belize & Guatemala.

Live it local as you explore a mix of stunning sites, local food & diverse experiences – you’ll leave wanting to do a few extra laps!

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 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)

• •

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. Tonight, party in great bars & dance clubs ’til the sun comes up. Hotel (B,D) M Snorkelling & zipline adventure Day 6: Cancun to Caye Caulker. Adios Mexico, but we’ll be back! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto Belize. We’ll park up on this Caribbean island, where the motto is “go slow.” Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife!

Hotel (B,D) Experience the Belize Barrier Reef

•

Day 7: Caye Caulker. The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier

028-029 Latin Legends.indd 3

Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split” where sipping & sunbathing is the scene! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunset boat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef

•

Day 8: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest.

Next up Guatemala’s Peten via Belize town! On arrival at our awesome Jungle Lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines… why not! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,D) Stay in Tikal National Park

•

Day 9: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores). Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area or you could explore the magnificent jungle ruins, before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B,D) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining experience

•

Day 10: Santa Elena to Antigua. From the relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Skip the queues & head straight for the unique beauty & relaxed vibe of World Heritage Antigua. Experience the historic & beautiful town, with its rooftop flowerbeds, horse drawn carriages & cobblestones. Hotel (B) Sightseeing tour of colonial Antigua

•

Day 11: Antigua. With the day all yours, see the sights & tick those boxes. Adventure seekers can hike a volcano or ride mountain bikes. Or if you want to relax you could try making local native chocolates or shop for traditional textiles.

Hotel (B) M Hike the Pacaya volcano Day 12: Antigua to Lago Atitlan. We’ll take a private boat to a lakeside Mayan community & meet local artisans who’ll teach us to make yummy tortillas by hand. Afterwards, relax on a hammock or try paragliding for epic views! Hotel (B) Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlan & learn to make tortillas

•

Day 13: Lago Atitlan to San Cristobal de las Casas.

We’ll make our way through small Mayan communities of Guatemala’s highlands before we reach the beautiful & rugged territory of Chiapas.

Next on the list, the evergreens

C. AMERICA & mexico CAriBBEAN WATERS

How much & when & cool cultural capital of San Cristobal de las Casas via Comitan! Hotel (B) Visit the cute town of Comitan

•

Day 14: San Cristobal de las Casas. Adventurers could try horseback riding or mountain biking this morning, then we’ll visit the Mayan hillside communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan. Tonight try some traditional Tamales Chiapanecos before hitting the town. Get festive! Hotel (B,D) Enter a sacred highland temple to experience ancient traditions in Chiapas M Horseback ride the evergreen highlands of Mexico

•

Day 15: San Cristobal de las Casas to Tehuantepec.

After a morning relaxing, we’ll descend from the forested hills into the beautiful coastal plains of Tehuantepec, where you’ll visit the city square.

This evening, chill by the pool before a delicious local meal.

Hotel (B,D) Day 16: Tehuantepec to Oaxaca. First up we head to World Heritage Oaxaca then it’s onto Matatlan. Later we head to Mitla, where sacred rites were once carried out among the geometrical stonework, still intact. We’ll discover colonial architecture this evening, stopping at the local market for some delicious chapulines…yum! Hotel (B) Visit the Zapotec religious centre Mitla Taste fiery mescal & sample spicy chapulines in the valley of Oaxaca Locally guided walking tour of colonial Oaxaca

• • •

Day 17: Monte Alban.

Discover local museums & shops before we visit Monte Alban, built on a mountaintop.

Famous for its traditional crafts, we will visit a local workshop before our last night… Salud!

Hotel (B,D) Visit the UNESCO site Monte Alban & discover a local workshop

•

Day 18: Oaxaca to Mexico City. This morning we travel to the centre of the ancient Aztec universe. We’ll take a panoramic tour of World Heritage Puebla, then head to Cholula. Choose to enjoy a relaxed lunch in the small town plaza or enter the ruins & explore the ancient tunnels (entrance fee not included).

This evening, we arrive Mexico City, where you can say adios to your amigos! (B) Visit Cholula where the church Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios stands above the buried pyramid Tlachihualtepetl

•

LATIN LEGENDS

18 days

Code: MXMC 2015/16 Start Mexico City

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Nov

52675 52675 52675 52675 52675 52675 52675 52675

2015 Feb Mar Apr May Jul Jul Aug Oct

21 21 25 30 4 25 29 24

Start Mexico City

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

backstage pass

2015 10 7 12 16 21 11 15 10

Dec 12 ● Dec 29

52675

Jan 23 Mar 5

Feb 9 Mar 22

54255 54255

* 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 R11860.

Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Mexico City approx.

6:00pm. ● Trip spends Xmas in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): departing Mexico US$30, entering Belize (by ferry) US$5, leaving Belize for Guatemala US$1, entering & departing Guatemala US$3.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Oaxaca

Incuded in your trip price:

2016

17 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 16 nights in twin-share hotels 26 meals: 17 breakfasts (B), 9 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager plus local guides in some destinations 2 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • 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 • Sunset boat cruise • Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán • Taste fiery mescal, sample spicy chapulines & learn to make tortillas • Enter a sacred highland temple in Chiapas Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

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

M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean M Ride a horse drawn carriage through World Heritage Antigua M Hike a volcano (availability subject to lava flow) M Paraglide Lake Atitlán M Mountain bike the cloud forests of San Cristobal M Ride horseback among the Maya See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

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

16/04/2014 16:24

NEW TRIP 1 FLIGHT INCLUDED

14 Days 3 countries From R39775pp* R2842 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R3795. See p.23 for details

Mexico BELIZE GUATEMALA

CANCUN 1

QUINTANA ROO

GULF OF MEXICO

Mexico City

Guatemalan Rainforest

Belize City

1

Oaxaca 2 Monte Alban OAXACA

Try...

Ziplining in Guatemala! Thrill seekers can get a fix as they speed through the rainforest canopy for incredible views & heart racing fun.

Visit contiki.com/central-trail

030-031 Central Trail.indd 2

Mitla

SAN CRISTOBAL 2

Flores

BELIZE

CHIAPAS

Chiapas

1 SANTA ELENA

Comitan

TEHUANTEPEC 1

LAGO ATITLAN 1 PACIFIC OCEAN

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

2 CAYE CAULKER

GUATEMALA

2 ANTIGUA

6 World Heritage sites visited

16/04/2014 16:25

30 | 31

G

et ready to face up against 3 heavy amigos – Mexico, Belize & Guatemala.

They’ll wrestle it out over 14 days with a variety of cultures, food & amazing experiences.

It’s an unforgettable trio so grab a camera, & your sense of adventure & let’s go!

Itinerary & Sightseeing

•

Day 3: Caye Caulker The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split” where sipping & sunbathing is the scene! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunset boat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef

•

Day 4: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest Next up Guatemala’s Peten via Belize town! On arrival at our awesome Jungle Lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines… why not! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,D) Stay in Tikal National Park

•

Day 5: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores) Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area or you could explore the magnificent jungle ruins, before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B,D) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining experience

•

Day 6: Santa Elena to Antigua From the relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Skip the queues & head straight for the unique beauty & relaxed vibe of World Heritage Antigua. Experience the historic & beautiful town, with its rooftop flowerbeds, horse drawn carriages & cobblestones. Hotel (B) Sightseeing tour of colonial Antigua

•

030-031 Central Trail.indd 3

MONTE ALBAN

How much & when

Day 1: Arrive Cancun Touchdown in Cancun, Mexico’s gateway to the Caribbean where sun, music & sights await! Meet your Contiki Team, then you can either stargaze from the beach, or get amongst the nightlife at Parque las Palapas. Hotel (D) Day 2: Cancun to Caye Caulker Adios Mexico, but we’ll be back! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto Belize. We’ll park up on this Caribbean island, where the motto is “go slow.”

Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife!

Hotel (B,D) Experience the Belize Barrier Reef

C. AMERICA & mexico CENTRAL TRAIL

14 days

Code: CAMC 2015/16 Start Cancun

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Nov

39775 39775 39775 39775 39775 39775 39775 39775

2015 Feb Mar Apr Jun Jul Jul Sep Oct

25 25 29 3 8 29 2 28

Start Cancun

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

2015 10 7 12 16 21 11 15 10

Dec 16 ● Dec 29

39775

Day 8: Antigua to Lago Atitlán We’ll take a private boat to a lakeside Mayan community & meet local artisans who’ll teach us to make yummy tortillas by hand. Afterwards, relax on a hammock or try paragliding for epic views! Hotel (B) Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán & learn to make tortillas

•

Day 9: Lago Atitlán to San Cristobal de las Casas We’ll make our way through small Mayan communities of Guatemala’s highlands before we reach the beautiful & rugged territory of Chiapas.

Next on the list, the evergreens & cool cultural capital of San Cristobal de las Casas via Comitan! Hotel (B) Visit the cute town of Comitan

•

Day 10: San Cristobal de las Casas Adventurers could try horseback riding or mountain biking this morning, then we’ll visit the Mayan hillside communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan. Tonight try some traditional Tamales Chiapanecos before hitting the town. Get festive! Hotel (B,D) Enter a sacred highland temple to experience ancient traditions in Chiapas M Horseback ride the evergreen highlands of Mexico

•

Day 11: San Cristobal de las Casas to Tehuantepec After a morning relaxing, we’ll descend from the forested

hills into the beautiful coastal plains of Tehuantepec, where you’ll visit the city square.

This evening, chill by the pool before a delicious local meal.

Hotel (B,D) Day 12: Tehuantepec to Oaxaca First up we head to World Heritage Oaxaca then it’s on to Matatlan. Later we head to Mitla, where sacred rites were once carried out among the geometrical stonework, still intact. We’ll discover colonial architecture this evening, stopping at the local market for some delicious chapulines… yum! Hotel (B) Visit the Zapotec religious centre Mitla Taste fiery mescal & sample spicy chapulines in the valley of Oaxaca Locally guided walking tour of colonial Oaxaca

Jan 27 Mar 9

Feb 9 Mar 22

40969 40969

13 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stay:

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

Single room supplement add R7795.

Start Cancun 5:00pm & end Mexico City approx.

6:00pm. ● Trip spends Xmas in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): departing Mexico US$30, entering Belize (by ferry) US$5, leaving Belize for Guatemala US$1, entering & departing Guatemala US$3.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

1 night Jungle Lodge & 12 nights in twin-share hotels 20 meals: 13 breakfasts (B), 7 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager plus local guides in some destinations 1 internal flight & transfer Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • Sunset boat cruise • Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán

• • •

• Taste fiery mescal, sample spicy chapulines & learn to make tortillas • Enter a sacred highland temple in Chiapas Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

Day 13: Monte Alban Discover local museums & shops before we visit Monte Alban, built on a mountaintop. Famous for its traditional crafts, we will visit a local workshop before our last night… Salud! Hotel (B,D) Visit the UNESCO site Monte Alban & discover a local workshop

ME TIME optionals

•

Day 14: Oaxaca to Mexico City This morning we travel to the centre of the ancient Aztec universe. We’ll take a panoramic tour of World Heritage Puebla, then head to Cholula. Choose to enjoy a relaxed lunch in the small town plaza or enter the ruins & explore the ancient tunnels (entrance fee not included).

This evening, we arrive Mexico City, where you can say adios to your amigos! (B) Visit Cholula where the church Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios stands above the buried pyramid Tlachihualtepetl

Incuded in your trip price:

2016

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

Day 7: Antigua With the day all yours, see the sights & tick those boxes.

Adventure seekers can hike a volcano or ride mountain bikes. Or if you want to relax you could try making local native chocolates or shop for traditional textiles. Hotel (B) M Hike the Pacaya volcano

backstage pass

OAXACA

M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean M Ride a horse drawn carriage through World Heritage Antigua M Hike a volcano (availability subject to lava flow) M Paraglide Lake Atitlán M Mountain bike the cloud forests of San Cristobal M Ride horseback among the Maya See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

DAY OF THE DEAD FESTIVAL

•

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

16/04/2014 16:25

1 FLIGHT INCLUDED mexico city

13 Days 1 countrY From R29169pp* R2244 per day pay early & save up to R2615. See p.23 for details

SAVE MEXICO

CANCUN 3

CANCUN

MERIDA 1 YUCATÁN

did you know...

Mexico introduced chocolate to the world.

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

Playa del Carmen

GULF OF MEXICO

MORELIA 1

QUINTANA ROO

MEXICO CITY 2

MICHOACÁN

IXTAPA 2

GUERRERO

1 TAXCO

Belize Guatemala

ACAPULCO 2

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

032-033 Mexico_Grande.indd 2

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

PACIFIC OCEAN

4 World Heritage sites visited

16/04/2014 16:26

32 | 33

T

his trip 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.

MEXICO MEXICO GRANDE CHICHEN ITZA

How much & when

MEXICO CITY

13 days

Code: MEXG 2014/15/16 Start Mexico City

Finish Cancun

Total Cost R pp*

Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

29169 29169 29169 29169 29169

2014 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

16 13 18 15 6

17 14 28 14 4 18 9 23 6

Finish Cancun

Total Cost R pp*

Jul Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov Dec Dec

9 23 30 13 3 1 29 26 17 31

29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169

Jan 28 Feb 25 Mar 10

30045 30045 30045

Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr May Jun Jun

29 26 12 26 16 30 21 4 18

29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169 29169

Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec

27 11 18 1 22 19 17 14 5 19 ●

2016 Jan 16 Feb 13 Feb 27

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

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

• N

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

032-033 Mexico_Grande.indd 3

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 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

•

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 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

backstage pass

2015 28 25 30 27 18

2015 Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr Apr May May Jun

Start Mexico City

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

Single room supplement add R9829.

Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Cancun 11:00am. ● Trip spends Xmas in Mexico City.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

Incuded in your trip price: 12 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

12 nights twin-share hotel accommodation 18 meals: 12 breakfasts (B), 6 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach 1 internal flight & transfer Sightseeing tours of all major cities Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • 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 all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

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

M Horseback ride along the shoreline & plantations See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

•

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)

TAXCO

16/04/2014 16:27

9 Days 1 countrY From R18975pp* R2109 per day

GULF OF MEXICO

MORELIA 1

IXTAPA 2

SAVE

MEXICO CITY 2

MICHOACÁN

pay early & save up to R1950. See p.23 for details

1 TAXCO

GUERRERO

2 ACAPULCO PACIFIC OCEAN

2

Visit contiki.com/mexican-fiesta

World Heritage sites visited

ACAPULCO

1

Nightstops

Itinerary & Sightseeing

backstage pass Incuded in your trip price: 8 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

8 nights twin-share hotel accommodation 12 meals: 8 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach Sightseeing tours of all major cities Local taxes & service charges

How much & when Code: MEXF 2014/15/16 Start Mexico City

• Acapulco catamaran cruise • Cruise on a ‘Trajinera’ & discover Xochimilco • Tour the Pyramids of Teotihuacan Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals Look for the M symbol in the itinerary & visit contiki.com

Total Cost R pp*

2014 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Exclusive inclusions

Finish Mexico City

16 13 18 15 6

17 14 28 14 4 18 9 23 6

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

2015 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

24 21 26 23 14

18975 18975 18975 18975 18975

Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr May May Jun

25 22 8 22 12 26 17 31 14

18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975

2015 Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr Apr May May Jun

Start Mexico City

Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec

27 11 18 1 22 19 17 14 5 19 ●

05 19 26 9 30 27 25 22 13 27

18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975 18975

Jan 24 Feb 21 Mar 06

19539 19539 19539

Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec

2016 Jan 16 Feb 13 Feb 27

* 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 R5980.

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

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

CHICHEN ITZA

034-035 Mex_Fiesta_Yucatan_High.indd 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

•• •

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

•

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 trip ends & it’s time to say farewell to your new friends. (B)

•

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)

16/04/2014 16:27

34 | 35

MEXICO 1 FLIGHT

YUCATÁN HIGHLIGHTS

INCLUDED

6 days

6 Days 1 countrY

backstage pass MERIDA

From R15519pp* R2587 per day SAVE

5 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

QUINTANA ROO

1 MEXICO CITY

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

3 CANCUN

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 whitestone 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 Mayan history on a guided

Merida Cathedral

Incuded in your trip price:

Playa del Carmen

YUCATÁN

GULF OF MEXICO

FOR MORE WAYS TO SAVE. See p.23 for details

Visit contiki.com/yucatan

CANCUN 3

1

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

World Heritage sites visited

How much & when 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)

Code: MEXH 2014/15/16 Start Mexico City

Finish Cancun

Total Cost R pp*

Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

28 25 30 27 18

15519 15519 15519 15519 15519

Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr May Jun Jun

29 26 12 26 16 30 21 4 18

15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519

2014 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

23 20 25 22 13

24 21 7 21 11 25 16 30 13

Finish Cancun

Total Cost R pp*

Jul Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov Dec Dec

9 23 30 13 3 1 29 26 17 31

15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519 15519

Jan 28 Feb 25 Mar 10

15985 15985 15985

2015

2015 Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr May May Jun

Start Mexico City

Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec

4 18 25 8 29 26 24 21 12 26

2016 Jan 23 Feb 20 Mar 5

5 nights twin-share hotel accommodation 8 meals: 5 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team Modern, air-conditioned coach 1 internal flight & transfer Sightseeing tours of all major cities Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • Tour the Pyramids of Teotihuacan • Take in the sights on a horse drawn carriage ride in Merida • Turn back the clock at the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals M Cenote snorkelling & off-track adventure See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

* 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 R4069.

Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Cancun 11:00am.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

CANCUN

MEXICO CITY

034-035 Mex_Fiesta_Yucatan_High.indd 3

16/04/2014 16:28

NEW TRIP 2 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

11 Days 3 countries

CANCUN 3

MERIDA 1

Playa del Carmen

YUCATÁN

GULF OF MEXICO QUINTANA ROO

From R32835pp* R2985 per day

MEXICO CITY 1

Guatemalan Rainforest

Belize City

1

2 CAYE CAULKER

Flores BELIZE

SAVE

1 SANTA ELENA

pay early & save up to R2690. See p.23 for details

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

Visit contiki.com/sol-seeker

GUATEMALA

1 ANTIGUA

6 World Heritage sites visited

Itinerary & Sightseeing

backstage pass

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

Incuded in your trip price: 10 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 9 nights in twin-share hotels 16 meals: 10 breakfasts (B), 6 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager plus local guides in some destinations 2 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations Local taxes & service charges

•

How much & when Code: MCAN 2015/16 Start Mexico City

Finish Antigua

Total Cost R pp*

Mar Mar May Jun Jul Aug Sep Nov

32835 32835 32835 32835 32835 32835 32835 32835

2015

Exclusive inclusions • Teotihuacan Pyramids tour • Take a horse drawn carriage ride in Merida • Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza • Sunset boat cruise Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

036-037 Mex 11 Day_Mex 8&7.indd 2

Feb Mar Apr May Jul Jul Aug Oct

21 21 25 30 4 25 29 24

Start Mexico City

Finish Antigua

Total Cost R pp*

Dec 22

32835

Feb 2 Mar 15

33819 33819

2015 3 31 5 9 14 4 8 3

Dec 12 2016 Jan 23 Mar 5

* 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 R8229.

Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Antigua 11:00am.

Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): departing Mexico US$30, entering Belize (by ferry) US$5, leaving Belize for Guatemala US$1.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Day 2: Mexico City to Merida Leave behind the buzz of Mexico City & fly to the beautiful whitestone 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 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)

• •

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 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. Tonight, party in great bars & dance clubs ’til the sun comes up. Hotel (B,D) M Snorkelling & zipline adventure Day 6: Cancun to Caye Caulker Adios Mexico, but we’ll be back!

We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto Belize.

We’ll park up on this Caribbean island, where the motto is “go slow.” Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife!

Hotel (B,D) Experience the Belize Barrier Reef

•

Day 7: Caye Caulker The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split” where sipping & sunbathing is the scene! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunset boat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef

•

Day 9: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores) Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area or you could explore the magnificent jungle ruins, before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B,D) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining experience

•

Day 10: Santa Elena to Antigua From the relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Skip the queues & head straight for the unique beauty & relaxed vibe of World Heritage Antigua. Experience the historic & beautiful town, with its rooftop flowerbeds, horse drawn carriages & cobblestones.

Hotel (B) Sightseeing tour of colonial Antigua

•

Day 11: Depart Antigua This morning it’s adios to your amigos. So say your goodbyes before heading home, or get out & do some more exploring in Antigua. (B)

ceviche

Day 8: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest Next up Guatemala’s Peten via Belize City! On arrival at our awesome Jungle Lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines… why not! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,D) Stay in Tikal National Park

•

16/04/2014 16:30

36 | 37

MAYAN ROCKER

How much & when

NEW TRIP

C. AMERICA & mexico

Code: ANMC 2015/16 Start Antigua

8 Days 2 countries

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

2015 Mar Mar May Jun Jul Aug Sep Nov

From R19845pp* R2481 per day GULF OF MEXICO

Mexico City

Oaxaca 2 Monte Alban OAXACA

Mitla

TEHUANTEPEC 1

Visit contiki.com/mayan-rocker

SAN CRISTOBAL 2 CHIAPAS Chiapas LAGO Comitan ATITLAN 1 GUATEMALA

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

3 31 5 9 14 4 8 3

Start Antigua

Finish Mexico City

Total Cost R pp*

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Nov

10 7 12 16 21 11 15 10

19845 19845 19845 19845 19845 19845 19845 19845

Dec 22 ● Dec 29

19845

2016 Feb 2 Mar 15

20439 20439

Feb 9 Mar 22

* 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 R3635.

Start Antigua 8:00am & end Mexico City approx. 6:00pm. ● Trip spends Xmas in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Important: the following border crossing fee is not included in the trip price. You will need to pay it locally (approx.): entering Mexico (by land) US$30.

2 ANTIGUA

Day 1: Arrive Antigua. Meet up with your Contiki Team, then get out & see the sights.

Adventure seekers can hike a volcano or ride mountain bikes.

Or simply relax & shop for local textiles & chocolate. Hotel M Hike the Pacaya volcano

Day 3: Lago Atitlán to San Cristobal de las Casas.

We’ll make our way through Guatemala’s highlands before reaching Chiapas. Next up, the evergreens & cool cultural capital of San Cristobal! Hotel (B) Visit the town of Comitan

Day 2: Antigua to Lago Atitlán. Take a private boat to a lakeside Mayan community.

Afterwards, relax on a hammock or try paragliding! Hotel (B) Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán & learn to make tortillas

Day 4: San Cristobal de las Casas. Adventurers could try horseback riding or mountain biking this morning, then we’ll visit the Mayan hillside communities. Tonight try some Tamales Chiapanecos before hitting the town. Hotel (B,D) Enter a sacred highland temple

•

•

M Horseback ride

SAVE

Day 5: San Cristobal de las Casas to Tehuantepec. Head into the beautiful coastal plains of Tehuantepec & visit the city square. This evening, enjoy a delicious local meal. Hotel (B,D) Day 6: Tehuantepec to Oaxaca. First up, Oaxaca then it’s onto Matatlan. Later we head to Mitla, where sacred rites were once carried out.

Discover colonial architecture this evening & stop at the local market for some delicious chapulines…yum! Hotel (B) Visit Mitla

•

••

pay early & save up to R2040. See p.23 for details

Sample food in Oaxaca Locally guided walking tour of colonial Oaxaca

Day 7: Monte Alban.

Discover local museums & shops before we visit Monte Alban. Famous for its traditional crafts, we visit a local workshop before our last night… Salud! Hotel (B,D) Visit Monte Alban & a local workshop

•

Day 8: Oaxaca to Mexico City. Travel to the centre of the ancient Aztec universe.

Take a tour of Puebla, then head to Cholula. Enjoy lunch or enter the ruins & explore ancient tunnels (entrance fee not included). Later we arrive in Mexico City & say adios! (B) Visit Cholula

•

CARIBBEAN N ENCOUNTER 7 Days 3 countries

Start Cancun

Feb Mar Apr Jun Jul Jul Sep Oct

QUINTANA ROO

GULF OF MEXICO

Guatemalan Rainforest 1

Belize City

2 CAYE CAULKER

Flores

SANTA 1 ELENA

1 FLIGHT

Total Cost R pp*

25 25 29 3 8 29 2 28

Start Cancun

Finish Antigua

Total Cost R pp*

2015 Mar Mar May Jun Jul Aug Sep Nov

3 31 5 9 14 4 8 3

19935 19935 19935 19935 19935 19935 19935 19935

Dec 16

Dec 22

19935

2016 Jan 27 Mar 9

Feb 2 Mar 15

20535 20535

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

BELIZE

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

Single room supplement add R4159.

Start Cancun 5:00pm & end Antigua 11:00am.

Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): departing Mexico US$30, entering Belize (by ferry) US$5, leaving Belize for Guatemala US$1.

GUATEMALA

INCLUDED

Finish Antigua

2015

Playa del Carmen

Visit contiki.com/caribbean-encounter

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

Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Arrive Cancun.

Touchdown in Cancun, Mexico’s gateway to the Caribbean where sun, music & sights await!

Meet your Contiki team, then get amongst the nightlife at Parque las Palapas. Hotel (D) Day 2: Cancun to Caye Caulker. Adios Mexico! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto the Caribbean island of Belize.

Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife!

Hotel (B,D)

036-037 Mex 11 Day_Mex 8&7.indd 3

•

Experience the Belize Barrier Reef Day 3: Caye Caulker. The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split”! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunset boat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef Day 4: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest. Next up Guatemala’s Peten via Belize

•

Incuded in your trip price: 7 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

7 nights twin-share hotel accommodation

City! On arrival at our awesome Jungle Lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest.

Contiki Special Stay, Jungle Lodge (B,D) Stay in Tikal National Park

•

Day 5: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores). Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area before a trip to the

SAVE

pay early & save up to R1750. See p.23 for details

island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B,D) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining

•

Day 6: Santa Elena to Antigua. From the relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Visit World Heritage Antigua &

An experienced & professional Tour Manager plus local guides in some destinations Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations Local taxes & service charges

4

World Heritage sites visited

C. AMERICA & mexico

Code: CAAN 2015/16

CANCUN 1

NEW TRIP

backstage pass

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

How much & when

From R19935pp* R2848 per day

8 days

10 meals: 7 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D)

Itinerary & Sightseeing

•

MAYAN ROCKER

2015

experience this historic & beautiful town. Hotel (B) Sightseeing tour of colonial Antigua

•

Day 7: Depart Antigua.

This morning it’s adios to your amigos. So say your goodbyes before heading home, or get out & do some more exploring in Antigua. (B)

CARIBBEAN ENCOUNTER

7 days

backstage pass Incuded in your trip price: 6 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 5 nights in twin-share hotels 10 meals: 6 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager plus local guides in some destinations 1 internal flight & transfer Transport in a private air-con coach, mini-coach or van Round trip water taxi Sightseeing tours Local taxes & service charges

3

World Heritage sites visited

16/04/2014 16:30

@swopes: Just conquered zip lining from 1000 to 3400 feet thru rainforests… roamed epic bridges & hung out in a hummingbird sanctuary…let’s just say today was pretty damn epic. #contikistorytellers #noregrets

COSTA RICAN RAINFOREST

12 Days 1 countrY From R25239pp* R2104 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R2599. See p.23 for details

COSTA RICA

Nicaragua

COSTA RICA

SARAPIQUI 1

ARENAL 2 MONTEVERDE 2

2 TORTUGUERO

Poas Volcano National Park Braulio Carrillo National Park

1 SAN JOSÉ Quepos

explore...

Love people watching?

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

GULF OF MEXICO

MANUEL ANTONIO 3

Manuel Antonio National Park

Panama PACIFIC OCEAN

1

Visit contiki.com/unplugged

038-039 Costa_Rica_Unplugged.indd 2

1

Places visited Nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stays

16/04/2014 16:31

38 | 39

T

his 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.

Itinerary & Sightseeing 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

POAS VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK

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

038-039 Costa_Rica_Unplugged.indd 3

SURFING THE PACIFIC

Finish San José

Total Cost R pp*

Oct Nov Dec Dec

8 12 10 31

25239 25239 25239 25239

Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug

11 11 25 15 29 13 3 24 8 22 5

25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239

2014 Sep Nov Nov Dec

27 1 29 20

Jan Feb Mar Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul

31 28 14 4 18 2 23 13 27 11 25

Start San José

Finish San José

Total Cost R pp*

Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan

19 9 23 7 28 11 25 9 23 6

25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239 25239

Jan Feb Feb Mar

20 3 17 2

25995 25995 25995 25995

Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec

8 29 12 26 17 31 14 28 12 26 ●

2016 Jan Jan Feb Feb

9 23 6 20

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

• •

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 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. Hotel (B)

•

Costa Rican coffee making tour

Day 9: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio It’s all sun & good times this morning, we’re off to the 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 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 opt in for a horseback ride through the jungle & to the Tacori waterfalls. Hotel (B) Visit a local market M Horseback riding

•

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

backstage pass

2015

2015

the ideal place to treat yourself.

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

See the incredible Arenal volcano

12 days

Code: COSTR 2014/15/16 Start San José

•

• •

COSTA RICA UNPLUGGED

How much & when

•

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) See Braulio Carrillo National Park Look out for wildlife on our boat ride

C. america

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

Single room supplement add R7689.

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

Please note: Do not book flights before 8:00pm. ● Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Arenal.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

Incuded in your trip price: 11 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Special Stay experiences: 2 nights Tortuguero Jungle Lodge, 1 night Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge & 8 nights in twin-share hotels 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

Exclusive inclusions • Sunset cruise in Tortuguero • Rafting, canopy adventure or abseiling in Sarapiqui • Enjoy dinner at a traditional country estate

ZIPLINING

Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals M M M M

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

See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

Manuel Antonio National Park

•

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

16/04/2014 16:31

SOUTH

AMERICA PERU, ARGENTINA, BRAZIL, Colombia & ECUADOR including 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 Brazil (plus everything in between), we get you closer. Mix this with the incredible wildlife & sights in Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands, our new destination colombia, and you're ready for an in-depth South American adventure like no other. how we travel & WHY CHOOSE US

SANTA SA ANTA NTA MA MARTA CARTAGE A CARTAGENA

where do we go?

Pe P e eru ru, A ru Arrge en nttin na, Bra azziill,, Eccu uad ador or, th the Galla Gala Ga apa pag go os & ou o rn ne ewe west esstt crru ush h – Colom olo ol om mb biia

MEDELL LIN BOGOTÁ

ARMENIA A

COLOMBIA

Staying where?

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GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

TEN TE ENA BAÑ BA ÑOS S GUAYAQ YAQUIL YAQ

PUERTO AYORA ISABELA

ECUA UA A DOR

How long & when

Long Lo ng & sho hortt expe xper xp erie erie en ncce ces es frrom om 6 tto o 37 7d day ay a y yss

how we travel

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SANTA CRUZ

PUERTO VILLAMIL

SAN CRISTOBAL

PUERTO BAQUERIZO MORENO

AMAZON AGUAS S CALIEN CALIENTES ES LODGE PUERT PUERTO PERU MALDO DONA DO ADO Lima CUSCO

SAC CRED VALL C LEY

COLCA CANYO YO YON

PUNO

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BUZIOS

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• Bre r a akkfa f stt daily aily ai y • Lo Lots ts of in ncl clud uded ed din nne ners rs & sp peec eci cial a llo occa al m meea alls • To Tou urr Man anag ager er, D Drriv iver er & Lo occal al Gu uiide des in n man ma nyy des esti esti tina ati tion ons

RIO DE JAN ANEIR EIRO IRO RO O IGUASSU FA ALLS

BUENOS AIRES ARGENTINA NA

040-041 Intro S. America.indd 2

16/04/2014 14:06

40 | 41

11 GREAT TRIPS FROM 6 TO 37 DAYS 1 NEW trip FOR 2015 to COLOMBIA

CHECK OUT CONTIKI.COM/LATIN FOR MORE

040-041 Intro S. America.indd 3

16/04/2014 14:06

SUNRISE E AT THE SUN GATE

diff di ffer ff fer e ent ent pe pers rspe pect pe ctiv ive e

TRA TR AIIN IN TO TO KM1 M10 04 4

We’ll take the train to “KM104”, our starting point for this day-l long trek, where we’ll meet our expert Local Guide who’ll lead today’s s journe ey. As you start the trek along the same path as the ancient Incas, you’ll so oon n know why this experience is considered a must-do.

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9.

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• You ourr full name (as ap appea pears rs on pas p assspo sport) rt),, nati nationa o lit ona lity, y, dat date e of of birt birth h & gend nde de r

042-043 Machu Picchu 2.indd 2

E se Es sent ntia iall bo book okin ing g re equ uir irem emen ents ts When you When you boo bookk your your tr trip ip (as early early in advvanc ncce as as poss ossibl ible) e) it’ it’ss esse essenti ntial al tha thatt y le you lett us us know w th the e foll followi owing ng det detail ails: s:

• You ur passport numb ber & date date t o exp of x iry What else What else?? It’s It’s al also so imp import ort r ant th hat the pa passp ssport ort in infor format mation ion th that at you u su mit wi sub with th you yourr appl applica icatio tion n is is exac exactly tly the he sa he same me as the t pa passp ssport ort yo you u will will us use e to tra avel v to La Latin tin Am A eri erica. ca. Yo You u will will also need yo yourr passpo ort rt to entter ontto the he ttrrail a . It’s It best bestt to t play it safe – if

you ur info info n rrma rm m ttio ion cha han a gess iit can can resu result lt in a pena pen enalty lty t & can ca a cel ce lat lation ion o of on o adm dmisssion on to tthe trai ra l. No ref rai re und undss will will be eg giv iven.

• Boo Bo o k earl ar y! To hel he p preserv ervve Machu Mac hu Picchu Pic icchu c for futu uture re genera gen eratio tions, ns, s th the e Peru Peruvia vian n Govern Gov ernmen mentt clos closely ely contr controls ols th he number num ber of trave travelle llers rs on n the tr trail ail, with wit h only only 50 500 0 prere purcha hased sed e pe permi rmits ts availa ava ilable ble ea each h day day.

• Inc Inca Traill perm permits i are nono refund ref undabl ab e & no non-t n-tran ra sfe ferable so it’ it’ss esse essenti ntial al tha thatt you you let us kno now w your o corre correct ct pas passpo spo ort det detail ails att the a h ttime of boo bookin king g so so we we can can proces e s your o ap appli plicat pl cat ation n quick qu ckly.

Contikki will process your appl p ica catio tion ion on your you o r beha behalf. lf • You Yo r pass a por portt must must ha have ve 6 mont months hs val validi alidi idity ty at at the ti time me of tra travel vel.

To ens ensure ure yo y u gett you ur chan h ce to hike hik e the the tra trail, ill, book bo o k you yo o r spot ea e rly.

It’ss advi It’ advisab sable to book at least 3 months mon ths h befor o e travelling g iin th he low sea se e son (b ( etw e een e Oct & A Apr) & 6 mon nths t be before travell e ing ing g iin the the high high season sea son (M (May ay to Sep pt), t) a alltho ltho t ugh gh it is a tim at times e pos es p sib i le to og gett pe permi r tss outsid out side thes hese e time mesca me sca ales. We will proce pro cess your ap appli p cat c ion within 3 days days off booki booking; w we cannott guaran gua antee tee permit pe avaiilab a ili i ty. ty Please ase no n te that the tra tr ill iss clo closed s in Februa Feb ruary for maintena ance ce.

All ou ourr Peru Peru ttrips visitt Ma Machu chu P Picchu, but ut it it’s you yourr choi choice c to take e the the Inca T il Tre Tra Trekk opti opt on in add additi ition o to your trip. Tra ra avellers that choos cho se to hike hike the the trail willl also ls have hav the ch c ancce to to retturn to to M Ma hu Machu u Pi Picch c u by coacch from Agu A g ass Cal Calien ientes tes w with the gr g oup oup tthe follow fol lowing ing morni morning. ng.

16/04/2014 14:06

42 | 43

042-043 Machu Picchu 2.indd 3

16/04/2014 14:07

Heath Haigh: Alpaca steaks in Peru are the best!

9 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

machu picchu

37 Days 4 countries From R123175pp* R3330 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R9740. See p.23 for details

ECUADOR PERU ARGENTINA BRAZIL

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

QUITO 1

SANTA CRUZ ISABELA

Puerto Ayora 1

Puerto 2 VILLAMIL

SAN CRISTOBAL

TENA 1 2 BAﾃ前S

PACIFIC OCEAN

2 Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO

GUAYAQUIL 2 ECUADOR Flight to Lima

8 World orrlld orl d He H Her Heritage e erita errit ita tta a age ge ge sites visited

Airport

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

RIO DE 3 JANEIRO

2 IGUASSU SU FALLS Flight from Guayaquil

3 IGUASSU FALLS

ARGENTINA

BRAZIL

Lima

Rainforest

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) 1

Ceviche is a hugely popular dish around these parts.

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

AMAZON LODGE 1

INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo

SACRED VALLEY 1 PERU

give it a try...

BUZIOS 2

Coast

1 PUERTO MALDONADO

CUSCO 4 Andes Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1

PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 2

1 AREQUIPA

BUENOS AIRES 3

Uruguay

Visit contiki.com/latin-quest

044-045 The_Latin_Quest.indd 2

16/04/2014 16:32

44 | 45

D

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

s. america THE LATIN QUEST THE GALAPAGOS XXXXX XXX X XX XXX X

37 days

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 the views at Panecillo. Later, visit the Equator line before dinner.

Hotel (D) Locally guided city tour to see the Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral Visit Panecillo lookout Visit the Inti Ñan Museum at the Equator 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 rafting adventure are the perfect ways to spend the day. Hotel (B) Thermal springs swim M Rafting experience Day 3: Tena to Baños. Chill or opt to visit an indigenous community before it’s back on the road to Baños, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Tonight get local as you learn to salsa. Hotel (B,D) Salsa dancing lesson Day 4: Baños. With a free day, explore Baños your way!

Hotel (B) Day 5: Baños to Guayaquil.

Today we head to Guayaquil.

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

Hotel (B) Evening 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, get out on the water as we head off to Isabela Island. 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 kayak with sea lions & snorkel with colourful fish. This afternoon we’ll visit the Wall of Tears – you might even see some baby tortoises along the way! Hotel (B,L) Wildlife kayaking adventure Visit the Wall of Tears Snorkelling experience Day 8: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island. Relax this morning before we take off to Santa Cruz Island. This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay for a stroll along the beach & a swim. Hotel (B) Visit Tortuga Bay Day 9: Santa Cruz to San Cristobal Island. We’ll visit 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

• •• •

•

•

• •• •• • •

• •

044-045 The_Latin_Quest.indd 3

Day 10: San Cristobal Island.

First up: a coastal cruise to spot native birds, before hitting the water in search of puffer fish & cute sea lion pups. We’ll snorkel around Kicker Rocks 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 Explore Kicker Rock’s 143m cone 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,D) 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)

• •

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.42-43 for more info.

Code: QURJT 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 Jungle canopy hike 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) See 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. Tonight, head out to experience 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’ll cross back into Argentina & visit their side of the falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat. The day is all yours & tonight we have tasty BBQ. Hotel (B,D) Visit Iguassu Falls Try a tasty 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. 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,D) 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. 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)

• •

How much & when Finish Rio de Janeiro

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

Oct Nov Dec Jan

21 18 18 13

123175 123175 123175 123175

124655 124655 124655 124655

Feb 13 Mar 10 Apr 7 May 5 Jun 2 Jun 30

123175 123175 123175 123175 123175 123175

124655 N/A 124655 124655 124655 124655

2014 Sep Oct Nov Dec

15 13 10 8 ●

2015 Jan 8 Feb 2 Mar 2 Mar 30 Apr 27 May 25

Start Quito

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

123175 123175 123175 123175 123175 123175 123175

124655 124655 124655 124655 124655 124655 124655

2015 Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

22 20 17 14 12 9 7 ◆

2016 Jan 4 Feb 1

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan

28 25 22 20 17 15 12

Feb 9 Mar 8

Incuded in your trip price: 36 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stays: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge, 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge & 34 nights in twin-share hotels 55 meals: 36 breakfasts (B), 5 lunches (L), 14 dinners (D) Trekking option - 56 meals: 36 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 14 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides 2 international & 7 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • Go local at a salsa lesson • Evening river cruise & drinks

Code: QURJ/QURJT 2014/15/16 Start Quito

backstage pass

126865 128345 126865 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 (trip only) add R26160.

Single room supplement (trip + Inca Trail) add R26160.

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 (subject to increase). Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations. ● Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Jungle Lodge. ◆ Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Puerto Maldonado.

• 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 • BBQ feast in Iguassu • Guided favela tour & city tour in Rio • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals M Rappelling (abseiling) & canyoning day trip M Rafting See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

16/04/2014 16:32

6 FLIGHTS INCLUDED christ the redeemer

@jennWHYfer: Favelas: Most eye-opening experience of the trip! #travel #contiki #riodejaneiro #brazil #favelas

25 Days 3 countries From R79499pp* R3180 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R6225. See p.23 for details

PERU ARGENTINA BRAZIL

BRAZIL PERU

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu)

2 Lima

Rainforest

AMAZON PUERTO LODGE 1 MALDONADO 1

1

INCA TRAIL

Ollantaytambo Andes

1 SACRED VALLEY

CUSCO 4

Coast

Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1

Bolivia

PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 2

1 AREQUIPA Airport

BUZIOS 2

RIO DE 3 JANEIRO Paraguay

2 IGUASSU FALLS

PISAC ARGENTINA BRAZIL

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.

6 World Heritage sites visited

SE OO YO

IR

UR

046-047 The_Adventurer.indd 2

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

D

Visit contiki.com/southam-adventurer

Uruguay

CH

play...

E C TI O N

16/04/2014 16:33

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W

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

s. america THE ADVENTURER iguassu falls

Itinerary & Sightseeing 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 modernday 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

046-047 The_Adventurer.indd 3

to experience today before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B) 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.42-43 for more info.

Code: LIRJT (Reverse Code: RJLIT) 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 world-renowned beef & red wine. This morning, get out & experience the iconic

How much & when city spots like San Telmo & La Boca. Tonight, get ready to tango with the locals at a dance lesson & show. Hotel (B,D) See 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 wine 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 BBQ. Hotel (B,D) Visit Iguassu Falls Taste delicious 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. If you’re up for it try surfing, 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,D) Day 23: Rio de Janeiro. This morning we’ll visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

We’ll give you a unique insidersonly 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

• •

Code: LIRJ/LIRJT 2014/15/16 Start Lima

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan Jan

21 28 18 25 16 23 13 20

79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499

80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979

Feb 13 Mar 10 Mar 17 Mar 25 Mar 31 Apr 7 Apr 21 Apr 28 May 5 May 19 May 26 Jun 2 Jun 16 Jun 23 Jun 30 Jul 21

79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499

80979 N/A 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979

2014 Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec

27 4 25 1 22 29 20 ● 27 ◆

2015 Jan 20 Feb 14 Feb 21 Mar 1 Mar 7 Mar 14 Mar 28 Apr 4 Apr 11 Apr 25 May 2 May 9 May 23 May 30 Jun 6 Jun 27

Start Lima

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

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

4 18 25 1 15 22 29 12 26 10 17 25 7 14 21 5 ▲ 19 26 ◗

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

28 11 18 25 8 15 22 6 20 3 10 17 1 8 15 29 12 19

79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499

80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979

Jan Feb Feb Feb Mar

26 2 9 23 8

81889 81889 81889 81889 81889

83369 83369 83369 N/A N/A

2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb

2 9 16 30 13

Finish Lima

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

Oct Nov Dec Jan

26 23 21 18

79499 79499 79499 79499

80979 80979 80979 80979

2 30 27 25 ✚

2015 Jan 22 Feb 18 Apr 9 May 7 Jun 4 Jul 2

Feb 15 Mar 14 May 3 May 31 Jun 28 Jul 26

79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499

N/A 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979

Finish Lima

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

79499 79499 79499 79499 79499 79499

80979 80979 80979 80979 80979 80979

2015

2014 Oct Oct Nov Dec

Start Rio de Janeiro

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

30 27 24 22 19 17 ■

2016 Jan 14 Feb 11 Mar 10

Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan

23 20 18 15 13 10

Feb 7 Mar 6 Apr 3

Incuded in your trip price: 24 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stays: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge, 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge & 22 nights in twin-share hotels 37 meals: 24 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 10 dinners (D) Trekking option - 38 meals: 24 breakfasts (B), 4 lunches (L), 10 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides 1 international & 5 internal flights & transfers

Code: RJLI/RJLIT 2014/15/16 Start Rio de Janeiro

backstage pass

2015

81889 83369 81889 N/A 81889 83369

* 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 (trip only) add R20289.

Single room supplement (trip + Inca Trail) add R20289.

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

RJLI/RJLIT: Start Rio 7:00am & end Lima approx. 5:00pm.

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. ● Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Jungle Lodge. ◆ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Puno. ▲ Trip spends Xmas in Buzios. ◗ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Cusco. ✚ Trip spends Xmas in Buzios & New Year’s Eve in Iguassu Falls.

■ Trip spends Xmas in Buenos Aires & New Year’s Eve in Cusco.

Day 24: Rio de Janeiro.

Today is yours to explore this amazing city. Try hang gliding or chill on Rio’s famous Ipanema Beach. 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)

25 days

Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • 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 • BBQ feast in Iguassu • City tour of Rio • Locally guided Rio favela tour • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

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

See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

16/04/2014 16:33

5 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

machu picchu

19 Days 3 countries From R69235pp* R3644 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R5390. See p.23 for details

PERU ARGENTINA BRAZIL

BRAZIL PERU

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu)

1 Lima

Rainforest

AMAZON LODGE 1

1

INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo Andes

CUSCO 3

PUERTO MALDONADO 1

1 SACRED VALLEY Bolivia

Coast

Airport

BUZIOS 2

RIO DE 3 JANEIRO Paraguay a aguay

CUSCO

2 IGUASSU FALLS

see...

Football (soccer)!

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

ARGENTINA BRAZIL

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

Visit contiki.com/southam-explorer

048-049 The_Explorer.indd 2

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

5 World Heritage sites visited

16/04/2014 16:34

48 | 49

W

ant a taste of Peru, Argentina & Brazil?

Follow Incan foosteps in Machu Picchu & check out the jungle action in the Amazon on this incredible trip. Dive into BA’s cool vibes, before it’s all beaches & bikinis in Buzios & the fabulous home of carnival, Rio.

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) 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.42-43 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)

048-049 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 worldrenowned 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) See 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 wine 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

s. america THE EXPLORER CUSCO

How much & when 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

•

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 BBQ. Hotel (B,D) Visit Iguassu Falls Taste delicious BBQ See Devil’s Throat

•• •

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) 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 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,D)

19 days

Code: CURJ/CURJT 2014/15/16 Start Cusco

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan

21 28 18 25 16 23 13

69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235

70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715

Jan 20 Feb 13 Mar 10 Mar 17 Mar 25 Mar 31 Apr 7 Apr 21 Apr 28 May 5 May 19 May 26 Jun 2 Jun 16 Jun 23 Jun 30 Jul 21

69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235

70715 70715 N/A 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715

2014 Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec

3 10 31 7 28 5 26 ●

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

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

10 24 31 7 21 28 4 18 2 16 23 30 13 20 27 11 ◆ 25 ▲

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

28 11 18 25 8 15 22 6 20 3 10 17 1 8 15 29 12

69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235 69235

70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715 70715

Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Mar

19 26 2 9 23 8

71309 71309 71309 71309 71309 71309

72789 72789 72789 72789 N/A N/A

2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb

1 8 15 22 5 16

* 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 (trip only) add R18105.

Single room supplement (trip + Inca Trail) add R18105.

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. ● Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Jungle Lodge. ◆ Trip spends Xmas in Buzios. ▲ Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & New Year’s Eve in Puerto Maldonado.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

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

backstage pass

2015

2015 Jan 2 Jan 26 Feb 20 Feb 27 Mar 7 Mar 13 Mar 20 Apr 3 Apr 10 Apr 17 May 1 May 8 May 15 May 29 Jun 5 Jun 12 Jul 3

Start Cusco

Incuded in your trip price: 18 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stay: 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge & 17 nights in twin-share hotels 27 meals: 18 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D) Trekking option - 28 meals: 18 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides 1 international & 4 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • BBQ feast in Iguassu • Guided favela tour & city tour in Rio • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

• •

ME TIME optionals

Day 18: Rio de Janeiro.

Today is yours to explore.

Try hang gliding or grab your towel, sunnies & ipod & chill on Rio’s famous Ipanema Beach.

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

See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata River M Polo match experience in Buenos Aires

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)

16/04/2014 16:34

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

6 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

SACRED VALLEY

26 Days 2 countries From R78035pp* R3002 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R6335. See p.23 for details

ECUADOR PERU

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ECUADOR

QUITO 1

SANTA CRUZ

1 TENA ISABELA ISAB B ELA

Puerto Pue ert VILLAMIL VIL LLAMIL

SAN CRISTOBAL

2 BAÑOS

Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO

2

PACIFIC OCEAN

GUAYAQUIL PERU

Rainforest

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) 1 2 Lima

AMAZON LODGE 1

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

Coast

did you know...

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

Visit contiki.com/galapagos-andes

050-051 Galapagos_Andes.indd 2

Andes

6 World Heritage sites visited Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train, canoe or boat

Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1 PACIFIC OCEAN

2 PUNO/LAKE TITICACA

1 AREQUIPA

PA PACIFIC OCEAN OC

Boliv

16/04/2014 16:35

50 | 51

E

xperience 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.

s. america GALAPAGOS & ANDES XXXXX XXX XX XXX X baÑos

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 & the 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 city tour to see the Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral Visit Panecillo lookout Visit the Inti Ñan Museum at the Equator

• ••

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 rafting adventure are the perfect ways to spend the day. Hotel (B) Thermal springs swim M Rafting experience

•

Day 3: Tena to Baños.

This morning is all about ME Time. Chill or opt to visit an indigenous community before it’s back on the road to Baños, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Tonight get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson. Hotel (B,D) Salsa dancing lesson

•

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. Go horseback riding, canyoning or abseiling for a slice of adventure. Hotel (B) 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 an evening river cruise with drinks.

Hotel (B) Evening 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 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 kayak with sea lions & snorkel with colourful fish (keep your eyes peeled for turtles!). This afternoon we’ll visit the Wall of Tears – you

050-051 Galapagos_Andes.indd 3

might even see some baby tortoises along the way! Later relax on the beach & take in this amazing place. Hotel (B,L) Wildlife kayaking adventure Visit the Wall of Tears Snorkelling experience

•• •

Day 8: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island. Relax this morning 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) 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 opt to explore the islands highlands 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 the water 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 Explore Kicker Rock’s 143m cone Visit stunning Puerto Grande beach

• • •

Day 11: San Cristobal to Guayaquil. There’s time to relax this morning & take in the beauty of the island & 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,D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores

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 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 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

Day 15: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. We drive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve (home to the

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) 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.42-43 for more info.

Code: QULIT 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 trip ends on arrival in Lima, where it’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your mates. (B) Please note: Do not book flights before 9:00pm.

How much & when Code: QULI/QULIT 2014/15/16 Start Quito

Finish Lima

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

2014 Sep Oct Nov Dec

15 13 10 8 ●

2015 Jan 8 Feb 2 Mar 2 Mar 30 Apr 27 May 25

Start Quito

Finish Lima

10 7 5 2

78035 78035 78035 78035

79515 79515 79515 79515

Feb 2 Feb 27 Mar 27 Apr 24 May 22 Jun 19

78035 78035 78035 78035 78035 78035

79515 N/A 79515 79515 79515 79515

Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

22 20 17 14 12 9 7 ◆

2016 Jan 4 Feb 1

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan

17 14 11 9 6 4 1

Jan 29 Feb 26

Incuded in your trip price: 25 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stays: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge, 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge & 23 nights in twin-share hotels 40 meals: 25 breakfasts (B) 5 lunches (L) 10 dinners (D) Trekking option - 41 meals: 25 breakfasts (B) 6 lunches (L) 10 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 Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • Go local at a salsa lesson

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

78035 78035 78035 78035 78035 78035 78035

79515 79515 79515 79515 79515 79515 79515

2015 Oct Nov Dec Jan

backstage pass

80375 81855 80375 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 (trip only) add R12555.

Single room supplement (trip + Inca Trail) add R12555.

Start Quito 7:00am & end Lima approx. 5:00pm.

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 (subject to increase). Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations. ● Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Jungle Lodge. ◆ Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Puerto Maldonado.

• Evening 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 Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals M Rappelling (abseiling) & canyoning day trip M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata River or Jungle Canopy climb M San Cristobal Island guided biking adventure See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

16/04/2014 16:36

peppermintmagazine: So hard to have left our beautiful island home - absolutely the trip of a lifetime. Adios Ecuador & Galapagos.

11 Days 1 country

2 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

From R36589pp* R3327 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R3010. See p.23 for details

ECUADOR

Colombia

ECUADOR

QUITO 1 GALAPAGOS ISLANDS S

1 TENA

SANTA CRUZ

Pue Puerto ert VILLAMIL VILL LAMIL

2 BAÑOS

SAN N CRISTOBAL

Puerto Puer rto BAQUERIZO B BAQU UERIZO MORENO MORE

did you know...

Galapagos provided the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s ground-breaking theory of evolution by natural selection.

Visit contiki.com/ecuador-galapagos-hopper

052-053 Ecuador_Galapagos_Hopper.indd 2

1 GUAYAQUIL

Peru

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

2 World Heritage sites visited

16/04/2014 16:36

52 | 53

F

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

s. America

QUITO

How much & when

BAÑOS

ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLAND HOPPER

11 days

Code: QUGU 2014/15/16 Start Quito

Finish Guayaquil

Total Cost R pp*

Sep Oct Nov Dec

25 23 20 18

36589 36589 36589 36589

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

18 12 12 9 7 4

36589 36589 36589 36589 36589 36589

2014 Sep Oct Nov Dec

15 13 10 8

8 2 2 30 27 25

Finish Guayaquil

Total Cost R pp*

Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2 30 27 24 22 19 17

36589 36589 36589 36589 36589 36589 36589

Jan 14 Feb 11

37689 37689

Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

22 20 17 14 12 9 7

2016 Jan 4 Feb 1

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

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 & the 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 city tour to see the Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral Visit Panecillo lookout Visit the Inti Ñan Museum at the Equator

• ••

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 rafting adventure are the perfect ways to spend the day. Hotel (B) Thermal springs swim M Rafting experience

•

Day 3: Tena to Baños This morning is all about ME Time. Chill or opt to visit an indigenous community before it’s back on the road to Baños, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Tonight get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson. Hotel (B,D) Salsa dancing lesson

•

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. Go horseback riding, canyoning or abseiling

for a slice of adventure.

Hotel (B) 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 an evening river cruise with drinks.

Hotel (B) Evening 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 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 kayak with sea lions & snorkel with colourful fish (keep your eyes peeled for turtles!). This afternoon we’ll visit the Wall of Tears – you might even see some baby tortoises along the way! Later relax on the beach & take in this amazing place.

Hotel (B,L) Wildlife kayaking adventure Visit the Wall of Tears Snorkelling experience

•• •

Day 8: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island Relax this morning before we take off to Santa Cruz Island.

This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay where we finish up

052-053 Ecuador_Galapagos_Hopper.indd 3

with a stroll along the beach & a swim. Hotel (B) 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 opt to explore the islands highlands 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 the water 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 Explore Kicker Rock’s 143m cone Visit stunning Puerto Grande beach

backstage pass

2015

2015 Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr May

Start Quito

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

Single room supplement add R5085.

Start Quito 7:00am & end Guayaquil approx. 4:00pm.

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 (subject to increase). Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

Incuded in your trip price: 10 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

10 nights twin-share hotel accommodation 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 Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges (excluding Galapagos, see price panel)

Exclusive inclusions • Go local at a salsa lesson • Evening river cruise & drinks • Galapagos BBQ feast at our favourite local spot Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals M Rappelling (abseiling) & canyoning day trip M Ziplining M San Cristobal Island guided biking adventure See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

KICKER ROCK

• • •

Day 11: San Cristobal to Guayaquil There’s time to relax this morning & take in the beauty of the island before heading back to the mainland where your trip ends on arrival. (B) Please note: Do not book flights before 8:00pm.

16/04/2014 16:37

NEW TRIP 2 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

6 Days 1 country

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS SANTA CRUZ Baltra

ISABELA

From R24945pp* R4158 per day SAVE

Puerto 2 VILLAMIL

Puerto Ayora 1 2 SAN CRISTOBAL Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO

ECUADOR Guayaquil

FOR MORE WAYS TO SAVE. See p.23 for details

Visit contiki.com/galapagos-hopper

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

GALAPAGOS

How much & when

backstage pass

Code: GUGU 2015/16 Start Guayaquil

Incuded in your trip price: 5 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

5 nights twin-share hotel accommodation 9 meals: 5 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 2 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides 2 internal flight & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • Snorkel & kayak adventure • BBQ feast Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals

Finish Guayaquil

Total Cost R pp*

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep

24945 24945 24945 24945 24945 24945 24945 24945

2015 Mar Apr May May Jun Jul Aug Sep

7 4 2 30 27 25 22 19

Start Guayaquil

Finish Guayaquil

Total Cost R pp*

Oct 22 Nov 19 Dec 17

24945 24945 24945

Jan 14 Feb 11

25695 25695

2015 12 9 7 4 2 30 27 24

Oct 17 Nov 14 Dec 12 2016 Jan 9 Feb 6

* 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 R2775.

Start Guayaquil 6:00am & end Guayaquil approx.

4:00pm.

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 (subject to increase). Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

1 World Heritage sites visited

Itinerary & Sightseeing Day 1: Guayaquil to Isabela Island Meet up with your Contiki crew this morning as we fly to Santa Cruz Island. Before arriving in Puerto 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 (D) See famous Galapagos’ giant tortoises Visit some lava tunnels Boat ride to Isabela Island

• ••

Day 2: Isabela Island This morning we’ll kayak with sea lions & snorkel with colourful fish (keep your eyes peeled for turtles!). This afternoon we’ll visit the Wall of Tears – you might even see some baby tortoises along the way! Later relax on the beach & take in this amazing place. Hotel (B,L) Wildlife kayaking adventure Visit the Wall of Tears Snorkelling experience

•• •

Day 3: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island Relax this morning 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) Visit Tortuga Bay

•

Day 4: 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 opt to explore the islands highlands 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 Guided biking adventure

• •

Day 5: San Cristobal Island First up: a coastal cruise to spot native birds, before hitting the water 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 Explore Kicker Rock’s 143m cone Visit stunning Puerto Grande beach

• • •

Day 6: San Cristobal to Guayaquil There’s time to relax this morning & take in the beauty of the island before heading back to the mainland where your trip ends on arrival. (B) Please note: Do not book flights before 8:00pm.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

Look for the M symbol in the itinerary & visit contiki.com

ISABELA ISLAND

054-055 Galapagos_Argentina & Brazil.indd 2

16/04/2014 16:38

54 | 55

S. AMERICA 2 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

ARGENTINA & BRAZIL EXPERIENCE

10 days BUZIOS Airport 2

10 Days 2 countries

RIO DE JANEIRO 3

backstage pass

Paraguay

2 IGUASSU FALLS Incuded in your trip price: 9 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

BRAZIL

9 nights twin-share hotel accommodation

ARGENTINA

2

pay early & save up to R3105. See p.23 for details

Visit contiki.com/southam-experience

Uruguay

World Heritage sites visited

BUENOS 2 AIRES

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

Itinerary & Sightseeing 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, 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) See the neighbourhoods of San Telmo, La Boca, Puerto Madero, Recoleta, Palermo Chio & Palermo Soho Tango lesson, show & dinner

• •

Day 2: Buenos Aires Today is all yours! You could catch a football game, drink wine 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 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, caipirinha. Hotel (B) Visit Iguassu Falls

•

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 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.

IR

D

SAVE

Iguassu Falls

How much & when

• •

Code: BARJ 2014/15/16

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 9: Rio de Janeiro Today is yours to explore. Try hang gliding or grab your towel, sunnies & ipod & chill on Rio’s famous Ipanema Beach. 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

2014

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

Day 7: 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,D) 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)

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Total Cost R pp*

12 19 9 16 7 14

Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec

21 28 18 25 16 23

36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745

2015 Jan 4 Jan 11 Feb 4 Mar 1 Mar 8 Mar 16 Mar 22 Apr 12 Apr 19 May 10 May 17

Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr May May

13 20 13 10 17 25 31 21 28 19 26

36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745

Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec

Start Rio de Janeiro

Start Buenos Aires

Finish Rio de Janeiro

Total Cost R pp*

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

16 23 21 11 18 8 15 6 3 10 1 8 29

36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745

Jan Jan Feb Feb

19 26 2 23

37845 37845 37845 37845

2015

Finish Buenos Aires

Total Cost R pp*

2014

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

7 14 12 2 9 30 6 27 25 1 22 29 20 ●

2016 Jan 10 Jan 17 Jan 24 Feb 14

36745 36745 36745 36745

2015 Jan 22 Jan 31 Feb 18 ✚ Feb 27 Apr 9 Apr 18 May 7 May 16 Jun 4 Jun 13 Jul 2 Jul 11

36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745

FEB 13TH - FEB 18TH 2015 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 revellers, floats & adornments from numerous samba schools. Live for the moments, live with no regrets & don’t miss out on this indescribable experience!

2 30 27 25 ●

Start Rio de Janeiro

Finish Buenos Aires

Total Cost R pp*

Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas

Oct Nov Dec Jan

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

30 27 24 22 19 17 ◆

2016 Jan 14 Feb 11 Mar 10

Exclusive inclusions • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • BBQ feast in Iguassu • City tour of Rio • Locally guided Rio favela tour • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals M Helicopter flight over Iguassu Falls M Football (when available) See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

2015 11 8 6 3

Oct Oct Nov Dec

RIO CARNIVAL!

054-055 Galapagos_Argentina & Brazil.indd 3

Start Buenos Aires

Code: RJBA 2014/15/16 (REVERSE TOUR)

polo experience, B.A.

An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides

Local taxes & service charges

Entry to Christ the Redeemer for amazing city views Locally guided favela tour M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain

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 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

E C TI O N

13 meals: 9 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D)

2 internal flight & transfers

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

•• •

SE OO YO

UR

CH

From R36745pp* R3675 per day

8 5 3 31 28 26

36745 36745 36745 36745 36745 36745

Jan 23 Feb 20 Mar 19

37845 37845 37845

Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov Dec

* 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 R12110.

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

RJBA: Start Rio 7:00am & end Buenos Aires 11:00am. ✚ Trip coincides with the Rio Carnival. ● This trip spends Xmas in Buzios. ◆ This trip spends Xmas in Buenos Aires.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

la boca, b.a.

16/04/2014 16:39

3 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

14 Days 1 countrY From R36035pp* R2574 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R2990. See p.23 for details

PERU

Brazil

AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) 1

Rainforest

AMAZON LODGE 1

INCA TRAIL

1 Lima

Ollantaytambo

1 PUERTO MALDONADO

PERU

SACRED 1 VALLEY

don’t miss

CUSCO 4 Bolivia

Sweet, sour & delicious!

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

Coast

Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1

4

@JamieBerg27: Just got back from #Peru!

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

056-057 Peru_Uncovered.indd 2

Andes

World Heritage sites visited

PACIFIC OCEAN

2 PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 1 AREQUIPA

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

16/04/2014 16:41

56 | 57

V

enture 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.

s. america PERU UNCOVERED pisac

Itinerary & Sightseeing

How much & when

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

Code: LILI/LILIT 2014/15/16 Start Lima

Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec

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 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

• •

056-057 Peru_Uncovered.indd 3

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

27 4 13 25 1 10 22 29 8 20 ● 27 ◆

Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan

10 17 26 7 14 23 5 12 21 2 9

36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035

37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515

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 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) 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.42-43 for more info.

Code: LILIT

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: 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 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

Jan 5 Jan 20 Feb 2 Feb 14 Feb 21 Mar 1 Mar 7 Mar 14 Mar 28 Apr 4 Apr 11 Apr 20 Apr 25 May 2 May 9 May 18 May 23 May 30 Jun 6 Jun 15 Jun 18 Jun 27

Jan 18 Feb 2 Feb 15 Feb 27 Mar 6 Mar 14 Mar 20 Mar 27 Apr 10 Apr 17 Apr 24 May 3 May 8 May 15 May 22 May 31 Jun 5 Jun 12 Jun 19 Jun 28 Jul 1 Jul 10

36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035

37515 37515 N/A N/A 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515

Start Lima

Finish Lima

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

backstage pass

2015

2015

••

•• • •

Finish Lima

2014

•

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 & Picchu Picchu volcanoes Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip

14 days

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

4 13 18 25 1 10 15 22 29 7 12 26 5 10 17 24 2 7 14 21 30 5 19 ● 26 ▲ 28 ◆

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

17 26 31 7 14 23 28 4 11 20 25 9 18 23 30 6 15 20 27 4 13 18 1 8 10

36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035 36035

37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515 37515

Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Mar Apr

15 22 29 7 12 26 6 3

37115 37115 37115 37115 37115 37115 37115 37115

38595 38595 38595 N/A N/A N/A 38595 38595

2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar

2 9 16 25 30 13 22 21

Incuded in your trip price: 13 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stays: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge, 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge & 11 nights in twin-share hotels 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 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions

* 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 (trip only) add R6245.

Single room supplement (trip + Inca Trail) add R6245.

Start Lima 8:00am & end Lima approx. 5:00pm.

Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

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

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

amazon jungle

• 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 all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals M Whitewater rafting on the Urubamba River M Mountain biking adventure See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

the sun gate

•

Day 14: Puerto Maldonado to Lima Your trip 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.

16/04/2014 16:41

1 FLIGHT INCLUDED

11 Days 1 countrY

(Machu Picchu)

1 Lima

World Heritage sites visited

Visit contiki.com/inca-panorama

How much & when Code: LICU/LICUT 2014/15/16 Start Lima

Incuded in your trip price: 10 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

Unique Special Stay: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge & 9 nights in twin-share hotels 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 internal flight & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions

Finish Cusco

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec Jan

7 14 23 4 11 20 2 9 18 30 6

25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325

26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805

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

15 30 12 24 3 11 17 7 14 30 5 12 28 2 9 25

25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325

26805 26805 N/A N/A 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805

2014 Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec

27 4 13 25 1 10 22 29 8 20 ● 27 ◆

Finish Cusco

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

2015

2015 Jan 5 Jan 20 Feb 2 Feb 14 Feb 21 Mar 1 Mar 7 Mar 28 Apr 4 Apr 20 Apr 25 May 2 May 18 May 23 May 30 Jun 15

Start Lima

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

18 27 13 18 25 10 15 22 7 12 5 10 17 2 7 14 30 5 26 ■ 28 ◆

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

28 7 23 28 4 20 25 1 17 22 15 20 27 12 17 24 10 15 5 7

25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325 25325

26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805 26805

Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar

12 19 4 9 3 31

26085 26085 26085 26085 26085 26085

27565 27565 N/A N/A 27565 27565

2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Mar

2 9 25 30 22 21

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

• City tour of Arequipa & visit the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals Look for the M symbol in the itinerary & visit contiki.com

058-059 Panorama_Amazon Highlights.indd 2

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

Single room supplement (trip only) add R4020.

Single room supplement (trip + Inca Trail) add R4020.

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. ● Trip spends Xmas in Cusco. ◆ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Puno.

■ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Cusco.

For travel insurance see p.62.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

CUSCO 3

Coast

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

machu picchu

1

INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo Andes

4

pay early & save up to R2350. See p.23 for details

backstage pass

Rainforest

AGUAS CALIENTES

From R25325pp* R2303 per day SAVE

Brazil

PERU

1 SACRED VALLEY

Chivay

COLCA CANYON 1

Bolivia

2 PUNO/LAKE 1 TITICACA AREQUIPA

Itinerary & Sightseeing 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

•

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

•• •

•

M Whitewater rafting 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.42-43 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 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)

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 trip ends after breakfast. (B)

16/04/2014 16:43

58 | 59

2 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

s. America ANDES & AMAZON HIGHLIGHTS

8 days

8 Days 1 countrY

backstage pass Brazil

PERU

AGUAS CALIENTES

From R23555pp* R2945 per day SAVE

INCA TRAIL Andes

Coast

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

World Heritage sites visited

Itinerary & Sightseeing

1 PUERTO MALDONADO

Ollantaytambo

Bolivia

3 amazon jungle

7 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

AMAZON LODGE 1

SACRED 1 VALLEY 3 CUSCO

PACIFIC OCEAN

pay early & save up to R1925. See p.23 for details

Visit contiki.com/andes-amazon

1

(Machu Picchu) Lima

Incuded in your trip price:

Rainforest

Unique Special Stay: 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge & 6 nights in twin-share hotels 12 meals: 7 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 3 dinners (D) Trekking option - 13 meals: 7 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 3 dinners (D)

How much & when

An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking local guides 2 internal flights & transfers

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

there’s loads to experience today before we take the train to Aguas Calientes this afternoon.

Hotel (B) 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.42-43 for more info.

Code: CULIT

••

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

cusco

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 trip 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.

058-059 Panorama_Amazon Highlights.indd 3

Code: CULI/CULIT 2014/15/16 Start Cusco

Finish Lima

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

2014 Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec

3 10 19 31 7 16 28 5 14 26 ●

Finish Lima

Trip Only R pp*

Trip plus Inca Trail R pp*

10 17 26 7 14 23 5 12 21 2

23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555

25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035

Jan 9 Jan 18 Feb 2 Feb 15 Feb 27 Mar 14 Mar 20 Apr 10 Apr 17 May 3 May 8 May 15 May 31 Jun 5 Jun 12 Jun 28

23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555

25035 25035 25035 N/A N/A 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035

Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Jan

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

24 3 19 24 31 16 21 28 13 18 11 16 23 8 13 20 6 11

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

1 10 26 31 7 23 28 4 20 25 18 23 30 15 20 27 13 18

23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555 23555

25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035 25035

Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr

8 10 15 22 7 12 6 3

24265 24265 24265 24265 24265 24265 24265 24265

25745 25745 25745 25745 N/A N/A 25745 25745

2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar

1 3 8 15 31 5 28 27

Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas

2015

2015 Jan 2 Jan 11 Jan 26 Feb 8 Feb 20 Mar 7 Mar 13 Apr 3 Apr 10 Apr 26 May 1 May 8 May 24 May 29 Jun 5 Jun 21

Start Cusco

Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

•

ME TIME optionals Look for the M symbol in the itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

cusco

* 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 (trip only) add R4249.

Single room supplement (trip + Inca Trail) add R4249.

Start Cusco 8:00am & end Lima approx. 5:00pm.

Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.

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

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

16/04/2014 16:43

NEW TRIP 3 FLIGHTS INCLUDED

11 Days 1 country From R32179pp* R2926 per day SAVE

pay early & save up to R2650. See p.23 for details

colombia

Tyrona National Park

2

SANTA MARTA 2 CARTAGENA

Venezuela

CARTAGENA COLOMBIA

taste Food lovers listen up! Indulge in Bandja Paisa, considered Colombia’s national dish. A platter of steak, pork & chorizo sausage, rice & red beans – its delish!

Visit contiki.com/hola-colombia

060-061 Hola Colombia.indd 2

2 World Heritage sites visited Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane

2 MEDELLIN

ARMENIA 2

2 BOGOTA

16/04/2014 16:45

60 | 61

H

ola! Like the sound of rolling hills, coffee plantations, ziplining, white sand beaches, toucans, colonial architecture & colourful locals? If that sounds like you then let us help you uncover Colombia! This epic new trip gives you a taste of everything, from mountains & forests to sea & sand & everything in-between.

s. america HOLA COLOMBIA CARTAGENA SEA WALL

How much & when

Cartagena

11 days

Code: BOCA 2015/16 Start Bogota

Finish Total Cartagena Cost R pp*

2015 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

19 19 16 14 11 9 6 3

Start Bogota

Finish Total Cartagena Cost R pp*

2015 Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

1 29 26 24 21 19 16 13

32179 32179 32179 32179 32179 32179 32179 32179

Oct 1 Oct 29 Nov 26

Oct 11 Nov 8 Dec 6

32179 32179 32179

Incuded in your trip price:

Jan 31

33145

Unique Special Stay:

Day 1: Arrive Bogotá Meet up with your Contiki Team & jump into vibrant & diverse Bogotá. This bustling city is a cool mix of old, new, trendy, traditional, stately & charming – its museums, churches, colonial mansions & stately buildings are a balance between its historical past & the future.

First up, we’ll take to the old town, La Candelaria to explore by bike. Hotel (D) Biking tour of La Candelaria Visit La Plaza de Bolivar See the Palace of Justice, the Colombian Congress & the Gold Museum

•• •

Day 2: Bogotá It’s time to explore… with sites like the Donación Botero, the hilltop view point of Monserrate, the city’s art galleries including the national gallery & modern art museum, there’s so much going on. Or simply wander around the traditional colonial Candelaria district packed with boutiques, restaurants & parks for insight in to life in the capital. Hotel (B) M Visit Zipaquirá & its famous Salt Cathedral Day 3: Bogotá to Armenia We leave the city behind & fly to the coffee region; considered the heart & soul of the country. Our journey takes us through some stunning scenery, lush green rolling hills of coffee, plantains & yucca. We’ll discover the region’s coffee plantations on a guided tour, to experience the whole process from seedling to coffee cup & everything in-between.

Contiki Special Stay (B) Tour a coffee plantation

•

Day 4: Armenia Today relax by the pool or get a feel for country life here. You can opt to explore the colourful tiny colonial town Salento & the

060-061 Hola Colombia.indd 3

spectacular Cocora Valley with its huge & famous wax palms.

Adrenalin junkies can try the Ziplines too! Later, we delve into the culinary heart of Colombia with a delicious hands-on cooking class.

Contiki Special Stay (B,D) Interactive cooking class M Zipline experience

Jan 21

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

Single room supplement add R7169.

Start Bogota 8:00am & end Cartagena 11:00am Note: Included flight times are subject to change.

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

For travel insurance see p.62.

•

Day 5: Armenia to Medellín Today we fly to Colombia’s second largest city – Medellín.

Your Team will get you in the know on this city’s colourful history. Hotel (B)

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta – the highest coastal mountain range in the world. We reach Tyrona National Park, with its pristine waters & unspoiled beaches, so get ready to hit the costal paths. Look out for some of the Kogi tribe residents, plus the array of lush fauna & flora.

Hotel (B,L) Visit Tyrona National Park Locally guided walk M Horseback riding

••

•• •

Day 9: Santa Marta to Cartagena Carved from a colourful history of Caribbean heat, with fusions of African, indigenous & European culture, Cartagena is Colombia’s living, breathing & pulsating museum. Colour splashes every corner, balconies overflow with blossoms & energy seeps beneath the ancient wooden doors of hotels, restaurants & Casa Privadas. Hotel (B) Locally guided city tour See Purto del Reloj (Clock Tower), Plaza de los Coches & Plaza San Pedro Claver

Day 7: Medellín to Santa Marta This morning we leave the city behind & fly to Santa Marta, the oldest town in Colombia.

Located on the Caribbean coast, it’s the perfect place to relax & soak up the sun. Tonight chill with a cold Aquila beer & indulge in Caribbean fish in one of the many restaurants as you take in the charm of this coastal city. Hotel (B) Orientation tour of town M Watersport experiences

Day 10: Cartagena It’s time to explore! The streets are alive with life & peoplewatching is an endless activity.

This can be done strolling the cobbled streets or from the comfort of a local restaurant with cool fruit juice in hand.

Tonight we will wrap up the trip with a traditional horse & cart ride along the cobbled streets.

Afterwards, enjoy a tropical cocktail at the famous Café del Mar with spectacular views over the Caribbean sea. Hotel (B,D) Horse & carriage ride Dinner at Café del Mar

Day 8: Tyrona National Park Pack a beach bag & walking shoes as today we drive along the foothills of the famous

Day 11: Depart Cartagena Your trip ends this morning where it’s time to say adios to Colombia & the group. (B)

Day 6: Medellín This city has had a remarkable rebirth & this morning we will tour the central part of town to bring it to life & discover why Medellín is so important to Colombia in terms of both commerce & culture. Tonight we’ll get into the vibrant nightlife. (B,D) Medellín city tour See “Parque Berrio” the famous Botero sculpture park Ride the city’s famous metro & cable car system for amazing city views

•

••

10 AMAZING OVERNIGHTS

2016

* Prices above are based on twin-share.

Itinerary & Sightseeing

backstage pass

Book now! Call Contiki or contact your travel agent.

2 nights in Colombia’s famous Coffee Region & 8 nights in hotels 15 meals: 10 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 4 dinners (D) An experienced & professional Tour Manager & English speaking Local Guides 3 internal flights & transfers Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Sightseeing tours of all major areas Local taxes & service charges

Exclusive inclusions Plaza de Bolivar, Bogota

• Guided bike tour of La Candelaria (Bogotá) • Coffee tour & tasting experience • Colombian cooking class • Cable car ride to Santa Domingo (Medellín) • Visit Tyrona National Park • Horse & carriage tour through Cartagena’s historic walled city • Local meal at Café del Mar Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with

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ME TIME optionals M Day tour of Salento & Cocora Valley M Santa Marta locally guided tour M Salsa dancing experience M Day trip to beautiful Isla Grande Island M Delicious gastronomic experience See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more

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QUESTION? QUE Answers to frequently asked questions & things you need to know:

What’s included?

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

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

• Sightseeing listed in the ‘Itinerary & Sightseeing’ section in each trip 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 trip 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 & boarder crossing fees in some destinations – see price panels for applicable trips.

• 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 trip itineraries are included as part of the price. As detailed within our Booking Conditions (p.63) under ‘General’, we rely on international conventions regarding air travel and other transportation as specified. Through enrolment and payment for your trip 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.

Group size We average around 30 people per group on our Mexico trips and no more than 30 on the rest, which is the perfect size to explore with each region & get amongst it all!

How much money do I need?

You will need to ensure you allow enough money to cover lunches & dinners not included in the trip price, 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 (Argentina), Real (Brazil), US$ (Ecuador), Peso (Mexico), Colón (Costa Rica), Quetzal (Guatemala), Peso (Colombia), Belize Dollar (Belize).

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 José & Mexico City, Bogota & Guatemala 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. USD is preferred in Argentina & should be brought with you in the country as it is not available through cash machines (ATM).

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 consider when packing for a Contiki Latin America Trip, including leaving space for on trip purchases:

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• Due to the large number of flights on Contiki Latin America trips, 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. The train operators, 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 trip & Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept over sized baggage on tour.

Past traveller 5% discount 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 trip. Clients must have completed a trip before they can redeem the discount on a subsequent trip 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-trip accommodation rates & other selected products.

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

me time Optional Activities 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.

HOW DO I PAY? All Me Time Optionals can be paid cash in Local Currency or USD which is preferred in Argentina – see “HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED”

Acceptance of risk It’s important that you acknowledge that at times travelling on a Contiki Latin America trip 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.

Brochure authenticity 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.

Do I need vaccinations?

At the time this brochure went to press (April, 2014) 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, Belize, Brazil, Colombia, Guatemala & Peru: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid & Rabies, Malaria & Yellow Fever are also an issue in Puerto Maldonado, Iquitos, Iguassu Falls & Tyrona National Park.

If travelling from Colombia to Costa Rica you are required to have a Yellow Fever vacination.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

Do I need visas?

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

You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas PRIOR to the departure of your trip. 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 trip. 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 trip & 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 trip.

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.

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

Will I get more information?

Upon receipt of final payment, your trip documentation will be released 21 days prior to your departure. Make sure you visit contiki.com for our travellers guide. It’s packed full of essential info for your holiday. You’ll also receive a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary including full details & costs of all optional activities available on your trip. 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.

Online check-in It is strongly recommended that you check in to your trip prior to departure at contiki.com/checkin. Checking in will save you time on the first day of your trip, 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 trip see p.22.

Booking Security 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 (ASATA).

important information Security is a major concern to all of us and the situation globally is constantly changing. Events around the world, coupled with the “Travel Advisories“ put out by various governments, may at times necessitate changes to the accommodations and itinerary or even trip cancellation. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for further information in this regard. You must accept these risks involved in travel to any country that may experience security difficulties and accept responsibility for your own travel decisions.

what else?

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

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 trip.

Photography credits Photos Courtesy of © Ascom Riotur, Rio de Janeiro p.6 Christ the Redeemer, Carnival Dancers, p.8 Copacabana Beach.

Photos Courtesy of © Dan Lumelski p.6 Hang Gliding. Photos Courtesy of © Tim Kozma p.6 Toucan. Photos Courtesy of © Lorenz Artaker p.7 Iguassu Falls. Photos Courtesy of © Holiday Inn Cancun p.16 Hotel Exterior. Photos Courtesy of © Costa rica Jungle Lodge p.16 Swimming Pool. Photos Courtesy of © Colca Canyon Casa de Mama Yacchi p.16 Colca Canyon Lodge. Photos Courtesy of © Casona Del Lago Guatemala p.16 Hotel Swimming Pool. Photos Courtesy of © Céline Cousteau CouseCentric Productions p.20-21. Photos Courtesy of © 2014 VISITGUATEMALA.COM GUATEMALA TOURISM BOARD -INGUAT- p.31 Local Colour. Photos Courtesy of © Banco de Imágenes de PromPerú p.42 Train to KM 104. Photos Courtesy of © Dan Lumelski p.42 Machu Picchu. Photos Courtesy of © Claire Midgley p.45 Lizard, p.47 Iguassu Falls, p.49 Copacabana Beach, p.53 Flamingos, p.54 Giant Tortoise, Sea Lion, p.61 Hill Trek.

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BOOKING

CONDITIONS COND

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 21st March, 2014. 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, 2014) 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.

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.

You will need your passport to enter the trail. It is important that the passport information you submit with your application is exactly the same as the passport you will use to travel to Latin America & it must have 6 months validity at the time of travel. If

062-063 Q+A_Cond's.indd 3

your information changes it can result in a penalty & cancellation of your admission to the trail. No refunds will be given.

2. PAYING THE BALANCE 2.1 The balance of the holiday price must be paid by no later 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: .........................................................75% 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. If you have booked a tour including the Inca Trail Trek the additional deposit you paid at the time of booking is non-refundable.

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. All Cancellation policies valid as at 31st March 2014, and are subject to change. Final policy will be confirmed at time of booking.

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 August 2014 to March 2016.

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, Belize, Guatemala), Galakiwi (Ecuador & Galapagos Islands), Costa Rican Trails (Costa Rica), Colombia 57 (Colombia) & Altura Travel (Argentina, Brazil & Peru).

This brochure was published in April 2014 and supersedes any other current brochure in the market.

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How to book Call contiki or visit your travel agent South Africa Contiki Holidays

Telephone & Fax numbers Tel: (+27) 11 280 8400

6 Hood Avenue, Rosebank, 2196

Fax: (+27) 11 280 8460

Postal Address PO Box 413786, Craighall, 2024

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 trip you’ve chosen. At the same time, your travel agent can book your hotel accommodation before and/or after your trip.

• At the time of booking, you must pay to your travel agent a non-refundable deposit of R1,000 per person per trip 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.

• 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 trip, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the Booking Conditions as set out on p.63 which make up the contract between you and Contiki.

THE TRAVEL CORPORATION Contiki is backed by The Travel Corporation, one of the world’s most successful family-owned travel companies. Our passion and commitment for giving our travellers life changing experiences is in our blood.

It also means you get the peace of mind that comes from a financially strong group with global scale. But don’t take our word for it, check out the awards we’ve won at thetravelcorporation.com.

DRIVEN BY SERVICE

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.

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 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.K. Contiki provides you with holidays & experiences of a lifetime.

1st Edition

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