South & Central America Brochure 2020 by House of Travel

SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA

DISCOVER THE WORLD WITH HOUSE OF TRAVEL . We strive to create the best holiday for you at the best value possible. We understand everyone has different travel needs and that’s why we love it when you bring your ideas to us because together, with our experience and knowledge, we can create the perfect holiday for you. We check all the travel sites to ensure you are getting great value. Plus, we have direct relationships with airlines and hotels around the world, which gives us extra buying power and access to some of the best deals and bonuses on offer that you might miss if you booked yourself. So, we promise to truly deliver the best of both worlds. We’ve helped create enriching travel experiences for 1.8 million New Zealanders over the last thirty years. We understand that it isn’t just the place you go, it’s where that place takes you.

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Chihuahua Los Mochis

MEXICO

Cabo San Lucas

Varadero

HAVANA

MEXICO CITY

CUBA

Cancun

Merida Villahermosa BELIZE Taxco Oaxaca CITY BELIZE Acapulco

Puerto Vallarta

Santiago de Cuba

CARIBBEAN SEA

GUATEMALA

GUATEMALA CITY

COSTA RICA

SAN JOSE

PANAMA CITY

Cartagena

PANAMA Panama

VENEZUELA

Canal

GUYANA SURINAME FRENCH GUIANA

BOGOTA

COLUMBIA

COLOMBIA QUITO

Galapagos Islands

ECUADOR

Chiclayo Trujillo

Belem

Iquitos

Guayaquil

Manaus

PERU LIMA

MACHU PICCHU

BRAZIL

Puerto Maldonado

Cuzco Puno Nazca

Cuiaba

LA PAZ

Arequipa

BRASILIA

Santa Cruz Sucre Potosi

Calama

Belo Horizonte

PARAGUAY Salta

ATACAMA DESERT

Easter Island

Salvador

BOLIVIA

Iguazu Falls

Buzios Rio de Janeiro Sao Paulo

CHILE Valparaiso SANTIAGO

Mendoza BUENOS AIRES

URUGUAY MONTEVIDEO

ARGENTINA Puerto Varas

Bariloche

Puerto Montt

Valdes Peninsula PATAGONIA

TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

El Calafate

Puerto Natales Punta Arenas

Falkland Islands

Rio Gallegos TIERRA DEL FUEGO

Ushuaia

The Climate Monthly Average Temperatures in Ë&#x161;C

Argentina

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

21/29

20/28

19/26

15/22

12/19

9/16

8/15

9/17

11/19

14/22

17/25

19/28

Bolivia

4/15

3/15

2/15

-1/15

-2/14

-1/15

-/16

2/16

2/17

4/16

Brazil

24/32

24/33

23/32

22/31

19/28

18/27

17/27

18/28

19/28

21/29

22/30

23/32

Colombia

6/20

7/20

8/20

9/20

9/19

8/19

8/20

7/20

Northern Chile

17/23

17/22

16/21

14/19

11/18

10/17

9/16

10/15

10/16

11/17

14/18

15/19

Southern Chile

7/18

5/16

3/13

0/7

-3/5

-3/4

-2/6

-1/10

1/13

5/16

6/17

Ecuador

10/19

9/20

10/20

10/19

Galapagos Islands

22/30

24/30

24/31

22/26

21/26

19/26

20/27

21/28

22/29

Peru

8/20

6/21

4/21

2/20

1/20

3/21

5/21

7/22

8/21

Mexico

13/22

14/23

16/26

20/28

22/29

23/31

22/31

20/28

17/26

14/24

Guatemala

12/22

12/23

13/25

15/25

16/25

16/24

16/23

16/24

16/23

15/22

14/23

13/22

Cuba

17/26

17/27

18/28

19/30

21/31

23/32

23/31

22/30

19/28

18/27

Costa Rica

18/28

18/29

18/30

19/30

19/29

19/28

18/28

Front Cover: Machu Picchu, Peru

Torres del Paine National Park Patagonia, Chile

Enjoy the comfort of flying with South America’s favourite airline LATAM Airlines operates 787 Dreamliner flights four days a week from Auckland direct to Santiago, Chile – connecting you to over 124 destinations in the region. Latin America is now closer than ever.

Cancun

Punta Cana

San Andres

Darwin Cairns

Papeete

Alice Springs Brisbane Gold Coast

Perth

Havana

Costa Rica Barranquilla Santa Marta Cartagena Valledupar Cucuta Monteira Bucaramanga Medellin Quibdo Villavicencio Bogota Ibague Galapagos Villavicencio Boa Vista Macapá Pereira Neiva Baltra Cali Puerto Asís San Cristobal Santarém Quito Belém Guayaquil Leticia São Luis Cuenca Tumbes Fortaleza Manaus Iquitos Talara Tarapoto Natal Imperatriz Piura Marabá Teresina João Pessoa Cajamarca Chiclayo Porto Velho Recife Pucalpa Trujillo Maceio Palmas Lima Cusco Rio Branco Salvador Juliaca Ilheus Ayacucho Tacna La Paz Cuiabá Una Arequipa Brasília Porto Seguro Goiãnia Santa Cruz Caldas Novas Belo Horizonte Arica Uberlandia Campo Grande Vitoria Iquique Ribeirão Preto Preto Asunción S.J. do rioCampinas Rio de Janeiro Calama Sao Paulo Antofagasta del Este Curitiba Salta CiudadLondrina Tucumán Foz de iguaçu Joinville Copiapó Iguazú Navegantes Florianópolis Córdoba La Serena San Juan Porto Alegre Mendoza Buenos Aires Easter Island Montevideo Concepción Neuquén Temuco Valdivia Bahía Blanca Temuco Osorno Puerto Montt Bariloche Chiloé

Santiago

Adelaide

Sydney

Melbourne Hobart

LATAM Flights Codeshare Connections

Canberra

Auckland

Balmaceda El Calafate Puerto Natales Punta Arenas

Comodoro Rivadavia

Río Gallegos

Falkland Islands

Ushuaia

latam.com

Accommodation Ratings

EXPERIENCE ECUADOR 4

Ecuador Amazon

South America Rhythms & Falls

Ecuador Tours

Galapagos Islands

Santiago

EXPERIENCE COLOMBIA

Atacama Desert

Colombia Tours

Patagonia

EXPERIENCE MEXICO

Chile Tours

Quito

Trademarks of South America

EXPERIENCE CHILE

Bolivia Tours

6 Tips for your Holiday

SOUTH AMERICAN TOURS

EXPERIENCE BOLIVIA

C ONT ENTS

GENERAL INFORMATION

52 54

Mexico City

EXPERIENCE ARGENTINA

Buenos Aires

Mexico Tours Central America Small Group Tours

Iguazu Falls Argentina Tours

EXPERIENCE CUBA

Antarctica

Havana

Cuba Tours

EXPERIENCE BRAZIL

Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro Combinations Brazil Amazon & Pantanal

Lima & Cuzco

Belize & Guatemala Tours

Highlights of Brazil

EXPERIENCE PERU

EXPERIENCE BELIZE & GUATEMALA

EXPERIENCE COSTA RICA & PANAMA

Costa Rica & Panama Tours

Cuzco Sightseeing Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu The Inca Trail Peru Amazon Peru Tours

General Information Accommodation Ratings To assist with the selection of your accommodation we have created our own rating system allowing you to compare each property. These are personal ratings offered by our people from their own experience and should therefore be used as a guide only. These ratings may alter throughout the year due to a change of circumstances. Moderate accommodation with a reasonable range of rooms and facilities, with rooms furnished to a comfortable standard. Superior standard of accommodation with a wide range of rooms and facilities, and a higher standard of service. First Class accommodation with an excellent range of facilities and services. Accommodation in this rating is considered among the best in the country. When selecting your accommodation please note that the overall quality of properties in the South & Central America is generally lower than equivalent priced properties in other countries, particularly in the lower ratings. In general the room sizes are quite small and can vary, even within one property. Price Indicator: The price is provided as a guide only. The actual price may differ to that indicated in this brochure due to currency fluctuations, special events, trade shows or peak periods. Your travel consultant will quote you the actual price at the time of booking. Per person pricing is in New Zealand dollars.

SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA South America boasts some of the most diverse geography on the planet claiming the largest and highest waterfalls, the longest river – the mighty Amazon, and the longest mountain range - the Andes. Beyond the unique eco systems, dense wildlife areas and countless wonders you’ll find diverse peoples, exotic culture, vibrant cities and intoxicating music and dance. Central America is blessed with Caribbean beaches, Mayan temples and mysterious pyramids set in dense jungle home to unimaginable biodiversity. A visit to Cuba can feel like a magical step back in time, yet like all of Latin America utterly compelling. With some of the most unforgettable spine-tingling experiences available on earth, it’s the places and people that make it such a wonderful continent to explore and visit time and time again.

6 T I PS FO R YOU R HOLIDAY

Argentina and Chile are two of the world’s great wine producers and it would be rude to not indulge in a glass of Malbec or two with one of those famous steaks fresh off the parilla. Maybe another couple and you’ll be brave enough to try the tango! A Pisco Sour in Cusco will have you dancing for sure, you’ll be swept away by panpipe music but remember at altitude drinks feel quite a bit stronger!

1 / IT IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK With airlines flying direct from Auckland to Santiago and Buenos Aires, South America has become far more accessible. It’s slightly less flying time than to Bangkok for example or around the same as Los Angeles. There’s a well-established network of flights and modern top quality airlines like LATAM and of course, Air New Zealand. Connect onto Rio or up to Cuzco for the Inca Trail or to Ecuador and the Galapagos. You can fly direct to Central America from the major hubs in South America or via the USA. Before you know it you’ll be stepping off your flight and into the world of the illustrious tango dance, dining on delicious Argentinean steak or sipping a Caipirinha on Copacabana beach.

3 / FANCY A TIPPLE

2 / EXPLORE CONTRASTS BETWEEN NATIONS South & Central America is the chocolate box of continents, and although they might all speak Spanish (except you, Brazil) each country is very different to the next. By combining at least two different South American destinations, you’ll see a complete diversity in cultures. There is an endless supply of contrasts to carve out; you can meet anyone from gauchos to world-class soccer players and dance until dawn in all 12 countries. If it’s wildlife you crave, visit the tame inhabitants of the Galápagos Islands, and then descend on The Pantanal, the planet’s largest inland wetland.

5 / THE MIGHTY INCA TRAIL If the Inca Trail is on your wish list you will need to start planning well in advance. Permits can sell out six months prior, with a limited amount available per day. Book through us to make sure you get your permit secured. There are some amazing alternative treks, which don’t require permits. All vary in duration and difficulty. Once you’re booked, preparation is key. Make sure you are fit and well. While anyone can walk the trail it’s no stroll in the park. Spend some time before your trek in Cuzco to acclimatize to the altitude. Take it easy, eat light, stay well hydrated and the copy the locals by drinking some coca leaf tea.

4 / HOLA AMIGO! Before you travel to South & Central America, it can pay to learn a few Spanish basics. Give it try. Even if you get it a little wrong, you’ll be met with a heartwarming smile. Hello! – Hola! • How are you? – Como esta? • Very good, thank you! – Muy bien, gracias! • Two beers please – Dos cervezas, por favor.

6 / OPEN YOURSELF TO SURPRISE Without doubt, South & Central America can be a culture shock for any born and bred Kiwi. Not purely because of the diverse landscapes and modified European aesthetics, but simple things like dining cultures are totally different (for instance having your dinner before 8pm would seem ridiculously early to the average Latino). Go with an open mind and let the Latin journey surprise you. Step away from everything familiar and into a total unknown, for this is where your greatest discoveries are made. We can guarantee that with an open-mind and a relaxed approach, you will return home completely refreshed. Everyone will want to hear about your South & Central American experience – while you serve Pisco Sours and a few empanadas on your NZ deck... Some Latin traits you just won’t be able to leave behind.

SOUT H AM ERI CA

TRADEMARKS OF SOUTH AMERICA With plenty of encounters in South America to choose from, it's no wonder we feel spoilt for choice. Your journey begins in the foodie city of Santiago, heading next to Ecuador, to take in the stunning waters of the Galapagos Islands and lush rainforest of the Amazon. The Latin love affair continues in Peru, where the reign of the Inca period still stands. Marvel at incredible Machu Picchu before finishing in Bolivia, where the alleyways of La Paz in Bolivia will have you entranced. This itinerary is a starting point in which you can build your own journey of Latin charms.

Trademarks of South America

COLOMBIA

22 days/21 nights Day 1-2: Santiago, Chile Transfer to your Santiago hotel for a two night stay and a city tour.

QUITO

Galapagos Islands

Day 3-4: Quito, Ecuador Fly to Quito (flight additional) and transfer to your hotel for a two night stay, including a city tour to introduce this fascinating city. Day 5-7: Galapagos Islands, Ecuador Fly to the Galapagos Islands for a three night cruise. Sit back and enjoy the natural scenery as you float by. Day 8: Quito Take a return flight to Quito for an overnight stay.

ECUADOR

Coca (Ecuador Amazon) Amazon River

PERU BRAZIL PACIFIC OCEAN

LIMA

Machu Picchu Cuzco Puno Lake Titicaca LA PAZ

BOLIVIA

Day 9-11: The Ecuador Amazon Fly to the Ecuador Amazon for a three night stay in the remote jungle. Day 12: Quito Take a return flight to Quito for an overnight stay.

CHILE

Parana River

Day 13: Lima, Peru Fly to Lima (flight additional) and stay one night in this historical city. Day 14-16: Cuzco Fly to Cuzco (flight additional) for three nights. Cuzco is great to spend a few days wandering, you will also see the main attractions on a city tour.

PARAGUAY

ARGENTINA

SANTIAGO

Day 17: Sacred Valley Journey to the Sacred Valley for a night and absorb the glorious scenery. Day 18: Machu Picchu – Cuzco The day has arrived to explore 'The Lost City of the Incas', Machu Picchu. Return to Cuzco by train in the afternoon. Overnight Cuzco. Day 19-20: Puno – Lake Titicaca Travel by bus from Cuzco to Puno. Overnight Puno. Take a boat ride across Lake Titicaca and meet the locals who live on islands made from reeds. Transfer to La Paz for a two night stay. Day 21-22: La Paz, Bolivia Visit the highest city in the world. Arrangements end at La Paz Airport. Departures: Daily specific to Galapagos Island cruises Inclusions: 15 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 3 nights Galapagos cruise, 3 nights Amazon lodge, return flights from QuitoGalapagos Islands and to the Amazon, transport & sightseeing as mentioned Price Guide From: $9985

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date. Price excludes National Park Fees and Transit Card, total USD$120 per person, subject to change, payable direct.

Experience the influences of song and dance in South America; from the passionate Tango in Buenos Aires to being whisked away with the windpipes of Salta, and of course the vibrant beat of the Brazilian Samba drum. Amongst these rhythms are glorious insights to natural landscapes with the mysterious and desolate mountains of Humahuaca Gorge, which is a stark contrast to the abundant waterfalls of Iguazu and its lush surrounding jungle. The bright city lights of Rio will keep you on your toes, before taking some time out on the pristine beaches of Buzios. Chiclayo Trujillo

South America Rhythms & Falls 17 days/16 nights

SOUT H AM ERI CA

SOUTH AMERICA RHYTHMS & FALLS

PERU

Day 1-4: Buenos Aires, Argentina Arrive in Buenos Aires and transfer to your hotel. You will spend four nights taking in the sights and sounds of the famed 'Paris of the South'. See all the main attractions on a city tour including entrance toPACIFIC Recoleta Cemetery, also witness the spine-tingling Tango right up close.OCEAN For a different atmosphere, we recommend ferrying over to Colonia in Uruguay and roam the cute cobblestone streets (additional cost).

BRAZIL

BOLIVIA

Buzios

CHILE

PARAGUAY

Salta

Rio de Janeiro Iguazu Falls

Day 5-7: Salta Take a domestic flight to Salta (flight additional) located in the north of Argentina. This is an area brushed with Inca influence by neighbouring countries such as Chile, Peru and Bolivia. Enjoy two full days exploring regions such as Humahuaca and Cafayate.

Parana River

URUGUAY

Day 8-9: Iguazu Falls Fly to Iguazu Falls (flight additional) for a two night stay. You will witness the natural beauty and power of the Argentinean Iguazu Falls. If you are daring, try the exhilarating Gran Aventura boat ride that will take you under the spray (additional cost).

BUENOS AIRES

SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

ARGENTINA

Day 10: Iguazu Falls – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Appreciate views of Iguazu Falls from the Brazil side, then fly to Rio de Janeiro (flight additional). Transfer to your hotel for a four night stay.

Valdes Peninsula

Day 11-13: Rio de Janeiro You have plenty of time to visit Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain on a tour. Enjoy free time at the shops, beautiful beaches and experience the Rio nightlife. Day 14-16: Rio de Janeiro – Buzios Enjoy one last morning in Rio before transferring to Buzios for a three night beach escape. Buzios is a cool two hour drive from Rio. A Trolley Tour will show you the best of Buzios, a quaint fishing village by theDEL seaPAINE TORRES NATIONAL where locals go to holiday. The area offers plenty of watersports and PARK beaches to spend some time under the hot Brazilian sun. Puerto Natales

El Calafate

Day 17: Buzios – Rio de Janeiro Punta Arenas After your relaxing time at the beach, you will be transferred to Rio de Janeiro Airport where your arrangements end.

Rio Gallegos

Falkland Islands

TIERRA DEL FUEGO

Ushuaia

Departures: Daily Inclusions: 16 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast daily, dinner with Buenos Aires Tango show, transport throughout & sightseeing as mentioned Price Guide From: $3695

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EXPERIENCE CHILE

Cut off from the rest of South America by the ramparts of the great Andean Mountain chain and the driest desert on the planet, Chile has a distinctly different character to the rest of the continent. Stretching more than 4000 kilometres from north to south, and only 350 kilometres at its widest point, Chile offers a spectacular array of landscapes and climates. With a short flight, you can reach either extreme in Chile; from the scorched desert to miles of fantastic skiing, from indulgent winery hopping to a close up view of epic glaciers and fjords. Chile’s breath-taking diversity can create a dilemma for travellers – how do you fit everything in? After all, what could you leave out – certainly not the out-of-this world arid moonscapes of the Atacama Desert at the northern tip with its hot springs, geysers, active volcanoes and ancient ruins. Then far to the south Patagonia, known as 'the most beautiful end of the world' and the spectacular Torres del Paine National Park. Hike, paddle and bike the region to truly appreciate every angle of the three granite monoliths, also known as The Towers. Chile’s capital Santiago is the gateway to these adventures, but also a great city to spend a few days. With a backdrop of the majestic Andes and second-to-none wining and dining, Santiago is becoming one of South America’s most popular destinations. 6

Country name:

Republic of Chile

Population:

18.2 million

Capital:

Santiago

Languages:

Spanish, Mapuche, Aymara, Rapa Nui

Currency:

Chilean Peso

Time zone:

16 hours behind New Zealand (17 hours with daylight saving)

Electricity:

Current is 220V/230V, 50HZ Plug is a 2 point round-pin adaptor

CHILE

FAST FACTS

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO SEE AND DO Barrio Lastarria & Patio Bellavista, Santiago – These hip neighbourhoods are the place to head for chic cafés and restaurants, designer art galleries, markets and an abundance of trendy bars to spend a great night out.

Easter Island – Lying 3700 kilometres west of the Chilean mainland, Easter Island is the world’s most remote inhabited island, mostly famous for the 887 colossal statues (Moai) carved from volcanic rock which are scattered around the island. It is an UNESCO World Heritage-site with much of the island protected within Rapa Nui National Park. In the 1800's a series of disasters reduced the population down to 171 local Rapa Nui. From then, the population has slowly recovered to about 2000 people but they’ve sadly lost a lot of cultural history and knowledge about the island.

Valparaiso – Situated just an hour away from Santiago, Valparaiso is Chile’s major port and second-largest city. The city centre streets are cobbled and overlooked by steep cliffs and hilltop suburbs, accessed only by cable car and stairway paths. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the creative locals who have painted Valparaiso into a living art gallery.

Torres Del Paine National Park – At the southern tip of the Andes Mountains in Chile lies Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most impressive sights in the Southern Hemisphere. The park encompasses ancient forests, glaciers, lakes, rivers and fjords. Fauna such as guanacos, foxes, pumas, and flamingos make for an interesting day's drive around the area. Proudly listed as the 8th Natural Wonder of the World, there is no doubt that Torres Del Paine National Park will leave you feeling peacefully breathless.

Pisco Sour – Scared of egg based cocktails? Trying a Pisco Sour is going to change that. This drop is one of the best examples of how egg whites can bolster the character of a drink. Many say these delicious cocktails are a big reason to return to South America.

PERU

BOLIVIA PARAGUAY

Atacama Desert

BRAZIL

Calama San Pedro de Atacama

Easter Island (Rapa Nui)

PACIFIC OCEAN

Vina del Mar Valparaiso SANTIAGO

ARGENTINA

URUGUAY

CHILE Puerto Varas Puerto Montt Chiloe Island

SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

Balmaceda San Rafael Lagoon & San Rafael Glacier Torres del Paine National Park

Puerto Natales

Punta Arenas 7

CHILE

SANTIAGO Sprawling busily at the foot of the Andes Mountains, Santiago boasts one of the most dazzling backdrops of any capital city in the world. Skyscrapers stand alongside Spanish colonial buildings, reflecting a contrasting mix between modern and historic times. The bustling streets full of performers, many parks and museums, colourful nightlife and world-class restaurants make Santiago a great stopover on your South American journey.

Hotel Fundador

Hotel Magnolia

Plaza San Francisco Hotel

A stay at Hotel Fundador will easily let you visit local shops, boutiques, cafés and restaurants with its central location in historic downtown Santiago. Fish and seafood are among the specialities at Calicanto and the Winter Garden which are the hotel’s two fine restaurants.

This boutique hotel is located in Santiago’s “El Centro” historic downtown area. It was formerly a grand old mansion and still has the marble staircases and stain glass windows retaining its 1920’s heritage. Completely renovated with new modern designer fittings and furnishings. Enjoy sleek rooms, great cuisine and a rooftop bar all in a central location.

One of our most popular hotels, you will find Plaza San Francisco Hotel in the downtown area of Santiago, near the Opera House. The Fine Arts Museum, major business and financial areas are also nearby. Delicately furnished in fine European style, the classic restaurant and bar provides great dining and entertainment options.

Hotel Ismael

Le Rêve Boutique Hotel

The Singular Santiago

Hotel Ismael is the perfect reflection of Santiago’s Bohemian spirit. In excellent location close to Lastarria, across from a gorgeous park, and close walking to the Fine Arts Museum, this boutique hotel offers a chic and modern ambience. With only 43 rooms, everything is at your doorstep.

An elegant boutique hotel and an ongoing favourite of ours, Le Rêve is located in the charming and upmarket Providencia area. Offering immaculate rooms with the latest amenities, this hotel is designed to create a unique and unforgettable homely experience, combined seamlessly with premium service.

Located in the premium neighbourhood of Lastarria, The Singular embraces the artistic heritage of its surroundings while adding an innovative homage to Santiago’s history. Enjoy dazzling views and refreshing cocktails at the rooftop bar. Rooms are an alluring blend of classic and contemporary, exuding the charm of a bygone era.

PANORAMIC SANTIAGO CITY TOUR

WINERY & VALPARAISO

CHILEAN WINERY TOUR

Visit the main attractions of Santiago and appreciate the notable contrast between the capital’s rich history and its imposing modern buildings. You will see Plaza de Armas, Santa Lucia Hill, Metropolitan Park and the exclusive residential areas of Vitacura and Las Condes.

Your first stop is a winery in the Casablanca Valley. Sip on a wine while learning about the carménère grape, which is distinctive to Chile. Travel onwards to Valparaiso, the oldest port in Chile. Colourful houses with beautiful ocean views, mural art and a slower pace of life is what makes Valparaiso so unique.

Chile has established itself as an emerging producer of great wines, so here is your chance to visit some of the most popular wineries who lead the way. Escape the city buzz and head into the country for an educating drive through the valleys of the Chilean winelands, tasting as you learn!

CHILEAN COOKING CLASS

SANTIAGO BIKE TOUR

ANDES LAGOON TOUR

Cook authentic Chilean dishes in an informal and friendly environment where you will learn the passion of the Chilean cuisine and have fun doing it. Your cooking class is ‘hands-on’, using the freshest of local ingredients. Meet your chef-instructor at the local markets where you shop with the locals for your supplies.

You'll be picked up from your hotel to meet your bike group for a leisurely ride; experience the rich diversity and vibrant culture emerging from Chile’s 450 year history. Bike your way through bohemian neighbourhoods and make photo stops at the most visited historical sites of Santiago.

An unforgettable trip to the centre of the Andes Mountains, less than 2 hours from Santiago. Visit ‘Plaster Reservior’, the incredibly scenic Lake in the middle, where you have time to soak up the backdrop. Enjoy a couple of mountain township stops along the way, including the picturesque village of San Jose de Maipo.

CHILE

SIGHTSEEING

CHILE 10

ATACAMA DESERT Known as the driest desert in the world, the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile is a region where sand dunes, volcanoes, gigantic geysers, hot water springs and salt lakes make for an amazing collection of photographic sights. With some parts of the desert recorded as never seeing rain, weather here rarely changes, proving that the Atacama is a destination to visit all year round. As you can imagine, it is also a unique stargazing haven, making it a hot spot for travellers.

Hotel Cumbres

Noi Casa Atacama

Beautifully located on the outskirts of San Pedro de Atacama, making it a quiet Oasis, Hotel Cumbres San Pedro de Atacama offers a unique experience in which comfort, relaxation, gastronomy and exploration of the mystique of northern Chile is all on the agenda. Each of the 60 rooms have an outdoor shower, where the option to shower under the stars is a hotel highlight for most. With 3 swimming pools and spa facilities, you will have ample time to relax and unwind, amongst your Atacama highlights.

The quaint boutique style Noi Casa Atacama, is perfectly located, just a 5 minute walk from San Pedro de Atacama township. A sustainable hotel, featuring a year round outdoor swimming pool and spa facilities, is a comfortable retreat framed by breath-taking scenery. On arrival, lock in your daily excursions that will have you experiencing the best of Atacama, and in your spare time, unwind on the sun loungers by the pool, or use the hotel's free bikes to explore the surroundings.

Price Guide From: $2395 (based on a 3 night stay)

Price Guide From: $2550 (based on a 3 night stay)

Hotel Alto Atacama Luxury Desert Lodge & Spa

Tierra Atacama Boutique Hotel & Spa

Tucked away in the lush Catarpe Valley of the Salt Mountain Range, the design of Hotel Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa blends seamlessly into its environment and intends to appear as part of the terracotta ridge above. The natural setting, sweeping views and tranquillity makes this Lodge a destination in itself to explore. Located two hours from Calama Airport, once at the lodge, you will choose from a menu of daily activities.

Tierra Atacama is situated on the edge of San Pedro de Atacama town, showcasing architecture, interior design and gardens masterminded by Chileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading creative talent. The Tierra objective is to be as authentic as possible and combines outdoor adventure and sports with luxurious indoor features and personable hospitality. Return transfers from Calama Airport are two hours from the hotel, where you will make the most of exciting daily activities or simply relax in the outdoor jacuzzi.

Price Guide From: $2795 (based on a 3 night stay)

Price Guide From: $3225 (based on a 3 night stay)

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share including all meals & local beverages, return airport transfers & daily scheduled activities, based on low season travel. Departures are daily from Calama Airport. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel dates.

Patagonia is a vast region of outstanding natural beauty, found in the southern tip of South America. It is well known for turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, sprawling glaciers, fjords, dense forests and immense national parks. A real paradise for hikers and explorers is the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park, where spectacular granite pillars soar almost vertically for more than 2000 metres. An incredible slice of the continent that crosses over both Chile and Argentina.

Rio Serrano

Patagonia Camp

Set in a phenomenal location, only a short distance from one of the main entrances gates to the Torres del Paine National Park, Rio Serrano is surrounding by sweeping Torres mountain views. This unique hotel, combines the highest level of hospitality, design and comfort to provide an elegant, yet warm place to relax and embrace all that Patagonia has to offer. Spend your days walking, hiking, or journey by boat to Grey Glacier, one of the must-see excursions during your visit.

You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get any more immersed experiencing Torres del Paine National Park than by staying at the Patagonia camp in a specially designed Yurt. Located on the shores of Lake Toro, the Yurts have been adapted for the Patagonia landscape, with all the comforts of a hotel added and the most incredible views all day long. Combine this with incredible staff and all the national park excursions on offer, and you will feel like you are hidden away in a small piece of nature paradise.

Price Guide From: $2295 (based on a 3 night stay)

Price Guide From: $2460 (based on a 3 night stay)

Explora Patagonia

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa

Positioned inside the Torres del paine National Park, Explora is all about location. Anchored in the heart of the park, this lodge offers the incredible views of the actual Torres del paine Massif and the Salto Chico waterfall all day. There are over 40 excursions on offer for you to really explore the park and take in the absolute grandeur and scale of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Back at the lodge, relax in the heated pool or indulge in the very popular spa.

Offering a unique experience like no other, Tierra Patagonia and its award-winning architecture complements the geology of the region to showcase the views of Torres Del Paine National Park, day and night. Make sure to keep room blinds open at night so you wake to a magical view of the famous monoliths. Situated just 400 metres from Lake Sarmiento, the biggest lake inside the park, here is a perfect photographer's location where the monoliths colour and hues change by the hour.

Price Guide From: $3150 (based on a 3 night stay)

Price Guide From: $3950 (based on a 3 night stay)

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share including all meals & local beverages, return airport transfers & daily scheduled activities, based on low season travel. Departures are daily from Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel dates.

CHILE

PATAGONIA

CHILE Hanga Roa Eco Village & Spa, Easter Island

Lake Crossing – Puerto Varas to Bariloche

4 days/3 nights

Easter Island, one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, is home to over 800 famous statues created by the early Rapa Nui people. Hanga Roa Eco Village & Spa is located centrally to ensure all opportunities are at your fingertips. Rooms are spacious with an ethnic design, and extremely comfortable which invite you to completely relax.

The Lake Crossing is a perfect way to combine neighbouring countries of Chile and Argentina. Embark on this crossing by boat and bus, also spending a night in Peulla, a small village amongst the mountains and lakes. Allow yourself time to truly appreciate the awe-inspiring natural surroundings which two equally beautiful nations share.

Day 1: Easter Island Transfer from Mataveri Airport to Hanga Roa Eco Villa & Spa. Settle in for a three night stay and explore the Hanga Roa grounds.

Day 1: Puerto Varas On arrival at Puerto Varas, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Known as the ‘City of Roses’, it is also famous for its German inspired architecture and traditions. You may even think you are in Germany with the craft beers, pastries and cakes you will find in the local cafes.

Day 2-3: Easter Island With many explorations to choose from in this all-inclusive package, you are spoilt for choice on what to do while on Easter Island. Activities on offer range from interesting walks, archaeological and historical tours, all of which will fulfil a four day stay on the island. Highlights will be to visit the different quarry's and Moai ruins, a truly magnificent sight. The opportunity to relax at Hanga Roa Eco Village & Spa is just as important as being active. Take advantage of the plush surroundings and beautifully designed spaces. The on-site Spa Manavi will renew you by using ancient therapies and natural ingredients from the island. Day 4: Easter Island After your last morning activity, transfer to Mataveri Airport for your onward arrangements.

Day 2: Lakes Crossing – Peulla Depart to Petrohue, bordering Llanquihue Lake. Enjoy breath-taking sights of Osorno and Calbuco Volcanoes. Visit Vicente Perez National Park to see the Petrohue Falls, an impressive volcanic rock formation covered by emerald green water. Onwards to Todos Los Santos, where you set sail and navigate to Peulla, a stunning settlement amongst the mountains. Overnight in Peulla. Day 3: Bariloche Continue the lakes crossing by boat before boarding a bus to Puerto Frias and enter Argentina. Crossing the Andes Mountains, you will alternate between boat and bus through beautiful towns and landscapes to reach ‘The Argentinean Tourism City’, San Carlos de Bariloche. Transfer to your hotel for an overnight. Day 4: Bariloche Spend the morning in Bariloche before your departing flight, gorgeously located on the shores of the Nahuel Huapi Lake. The production of Argentina’s best chocolate comes from Bariloche, so make sure you try some before you depart.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 3 nights hotel accommodation, all meals & local beverages, return airport transfers, daily scheduled activities, local professional English speaking guides

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, lunch and dinner on the cruise, transport, sightseeing mentioned with a professional English speaking guide

Price Guide From: $2225

Price Guide From: $890

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

CHILE

Australis Cruise – Punta Arenas to Ushuaia 5 days/4 nights

Ultimate Patagonia

The Best of Chile

11 days/10 nights

9 days/8 nights

This scenic maritime route highlights the stunning natural beauty of Patagonia and several of its most important sites. Explore the fjords of Tierra del Fuego, see wildlife in Ainsworth Bay and visit the legendary Cape Horn National Park. Experience a great adventure to the end of the earth onboard one of the amazing Australis ships.

Set sail for the fjords of Tierra del Fuego, Ainsworth Bay and the legendary Cape Horn National Park on the Australis cruise. Witness the staggering Perito Moreno Glacier which is five kilometres wide. Then explore Torres Del Paine National Park from your luxury lodge.

The exciting Best of Chile is a comprehensive itinerary, showing a clear contrast between the ‘most beautiful end of the world’ in the far south where Patagonia lies, to the northern tip of Chile where the great Atacama Desert meets Bolivia. Add a dose of shopping and experience world-class innovative cuisine from restaurants in Santiago.

Day 1: Punta Arenas Board your cruise ship this evening. Cruise the Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel to explore the spectacular Southern Patagonia.

Day 1: Punta Arenas Board the Australis cruise ship this evening. Cruise the Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel.

Day 2: Ainsworth Bay – Tuckers Islets Navigate through Almirantazgo Sound to Ainsworth Bay. Witness the Marinelli Glacier and take a walk in the sub-polar Magellan Forest. Head to Tuckets Islets and climb onboard a zodiac to get up close to a colony of Magellan Penguins.

Day 2: Ainsworth Bay – Tuckers Islets Navigate through Almirantazgo Sound to Ainsworth Bay. Witness the Marinelli Glacier, walk in the sub-polar Magellan Forest and get up close to a colony of Magellan Penguins.

Day 1-2: Santiago Transfer from Santiago Airport to your hotel. Settle in for a two night stay at Ismael Hotel, where you are steps away from fantastic shopping, cafés, restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. Take a city tour to explore other areas of Santiago and its major attractions.

Day 3: Pia Glacier – Glacier Alley Take a short hike to enjoy spectacular views of Pia Glacier, before continuing through the majestic Glacier Alley. Day 4: Wulaia Bay – Cape Horn Sail through Murray Channel and Nassay Bay to reach Cape Horn National Park. Day 5: Ushuaia – El Calafate Arrive Ushuaia and disembark the ship. Transfer to the airport and fly to El Calafate. Transfer to your hotel in El Calafate for three nights. Day 6: Perito Moreno Glacier Enjoy a full day tour to Perito Moreno Glacier. Day 7: Rios de Helio Take a full day catamaran cruise on Argentino Lake. Glide amongst enormous icebergs in the Upsala and Spegassini channel and the varied forms of several glaciers in the region. Day 8-10: Torres del Paine NP After an early breakfast, transfer from El Calafate across the border into Chile to Hotel Las Torres for a three night stay. Take part in daily activities and indulge in beautiful Chilean cuisine in your all-inclusive program.

Day 3-5: Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia Transfer to the airport and fly to Puerto Natales (flight additional) then transfer to Hotel Las Torres Patagonia for a three night stay. This property is beautifully situated at the foot of the mountains, allowing you to experience the Patagonian wilderness for every moment of your stay. Take part in daily activities and indulge in beautiful Patagonian cuisine in your all-inclusive program. Day 6: Patagonia – Atacama Desert Return to Puerto Natales Airport and fly to Calama via Santiago (flights additional). Transfer to Hotel Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa for an extra special three night stay. Day 7-9: San Pedro de Atacama, Atacama Desert Spend time exploring the magnificent Atacama Desert. With so many activities on offer, it is easy to fill up your days. The resort itself is a masterpiece so enjoy the swimming pools, the Puri Spa and the lodge's peaceful surroundings. On the afternoon of day nine, transfer to the airport and connect with your onward arrangements.

Day 11: Punta Arenas After breakfast transfer to Punta Arenas airport. Departures: Set departures

Departures: Set departures (for Australis cruise)

Departures: Daily in Sep-Apr (Patagonia season)

Inclusions: 4 nights onboard Australis cruise, all meals & local beverages, transport, scheduled daily activities including shore excursions, port taxes

Inclusions: 10 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, all meals & local beverages while in Torres del Paine NP & onboard the Australis, transport (flights additional), port taxes, sightseeing mentioned & daily scheduled activities/shore excursions, park fees, tour guides

Inclusions: 8 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, all meals & local beverages while in Patagonia & Atacama Desert, transport (domestic flights additional) sightseeing mentioned & daily scheduled activities, professional tour guides

Price Guide From: $6980

Price Guide From: $5290

Price Guide From: $2620

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EXPERIENCE ARGENTINA

Perito Moreno Glacier

From the aroma of sizzling beef steaks and the icy sensation of trekking a glacier, to feeling

the passion of a street tango or the spray from one of the world’s most magnificent waterfalls, Argentina has it all. The abundance of sights and sensations is partly due to Argentina’s sheer size, stretching from the tropics in the north to the frozen wilderness of Patagonia. While exotic butterflies and birds grace the rainforests, penguins and whales star in the far south. Both regions are distinctively different from the rolling Pampas where gauchos (cowboys) roam. Argentina’s history is as varied and colourful as its landscape. With the Spanish arriving to Argentina in the 16th century and putting their cultural stamp on the land to the last century with charismatic Eva Peron (Evita) who became Argentina’s most famous figure. But there’s nothing sorrowful about Buenos Aires. This city pulsates with life; with tango dancing in historic San Telmo plazas, the historic football rivalry between La Boca and River Plate, and a sense of wealth and power around Plaza de Mayo. Beyond the vibrancy of Buenos Aires lies the Iguazu Falls, one of South America’s most spectacular sights with more than 20 kilometres of plummeting, thunderous water.

Country name:

Republic of Argentina

Population:

44.7 million

Capital:

Buenos Aires

Languages:

Spanish, English

Currency:

Argentine Peso

Time zone:

15 hours behind New Zealand (16 hours with daylight saving)

Electricity:

Current is 220V/230V, 50HZ Plug is a 2 point round-pin adaptor, or you can use a NZ plug

ARGENT I NA

FAST FACTS

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO SEE AND DO El Calafate – A small but very important city in the southwest of Argentina, El Calafate is the gateway to visiting Los Glaciares National Park. The streets of El Calafate are buzzing with people who have been amazed by the sights of Perito Moreno Glacier, Cerro Chaltén and Cerro Torre.

The Northwest & Salta – Home to an abundance of natural attractions and atmospheric relics from the pre-Columbian and colonial past, this is the more 'traditional' part of Argentina. Salta is one of the most popular cities in this area and is the most well preserved colonial city in the country, with hundreds of archaeological sites, subtropical forests and desert canyons to explore.

Argentine Cuisine – Argentineans take notable pride in their meat dishes, and culinary chefs will enlighten you with some of the most aromatic mouthfuls you’ll ever experience!

Buenos Aires Markets – If you're anything like us, you'll love perusing the markets for a good bargain, packed with home-grown charm. A favourite for locals are the Recoleta Markets every Saturday and Sunday, set up conveniently outside the famous museum with plenty of grassy space for a picnic from the street food stalls nearby. San Telmo Antique Markets occur every Sunday, where the streets are brimming with ancient treasures and market crafts.

Mendoza – Sitting in the foothills of the Andes, one of the main reasons people visit Mendoza is for the wine, with plenty of vineyards scattered around the countryside. It is a great place for activities such as hiking, horse riding, rafting and skiing in the winter months. Mendoza is also a regular stopover for mountain climbers on their way to Aconcagua.

Tango Lessons – You will come across it everywhere you go while wandering Buenos Aires and most of Argentina, so why not learn the alluring Tango yourself? Your new found talent is sure to impress friends and family back home.

BOLIVIA CHILE

BRAZIL

PARAGUAY

Salta

Iguazu Falls Parana River

Cordoba

URUGUAY

Mendoza

PACIFIC OCEAN

ARGENTINA

BUENOS AIRES

Bariloche Valdes Peninsula

SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

Perito Moreno Moreno Glacier Los Glaciers National Park

El Calafate

Rio Gallegos

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Ushuaia Cape Horn

ARGENT I N A 16

BUENOS AIRES Buenos Aires is one of the most exciting, charming and fast paced cities of all South American capitals. Well known for its cultural icons, such as football, Evita and the tango, it’s also a great place to just wander about, people watch, shop or simply soak up the unique European style atmosphere. Nightlife is second to none and local restaurants are a food lover’s delight. Don’t miss the colourful La Boca district, home of the tango, San Telmo with its many cafés or Recoleta, the fashionable restaurant and shopping area.

Anselmo Buenos Aires

Hotel Pulitzer Buenos Aires

Hotel Madero

Located in the famous Plaza Dorrego at the centre of historical San Telmo, Anselmo is a beautiful hotel. Its exterior retains the elegant architectural traditional of the area with a modern, open and bright interior. The rooms are stylish and individual yet homely and attractive. Much like the surrounding area with cosy cafés and bars mingled with antique shops along cobblestone streets.

Within easy walking distance to some of the city’s most popular haunts the Hotel Pulitzer’s heart of the city location gives you the opportunity to explore on foot. The pedestrian only street of Florida is a few minutes walk away with nearby shops, restaurants and bars. The hotel has spacious rooms, great service and boasts amazing views from its own rooftop bar.

Located in the new trendy neighbourhood of Puerto Madero, you are in perfect position on the river front with easy walking distance to restaurants, bars, cafés and gorgeous night time strolls along the River. The Hotel Madero offers spacious styled rooms and has a heated rooftop pool with incredible city views.

Sofitel Recoleta Buenos Aires

Alvear Art Hotel

Faena Hotel Buenos Aires

Set in a modern tower block in the affluent Recoleta neighbourhood, The Sofitel Recoleta is a very short walking distance to cafés, shops and many restaurants. Rooms are delicately furnished while the bold and sultry common areas make a stylish impact on your stay.

The Alvear Art Hotel is a leading innovative hotel in Buenos Aires, offering the most advanced technology to guests, also following traditional designs of its famous sister property, the opulent Alvear Palace. Rooms are elegantly furnished with classic décor. Alvear Art Hotel will ensure you are mesmerised with Buenos Aires.

Luxury and design meets cutting edge technology at the Faena Hotel Buenos Aires. Opened in 2004 it was at the forefront of the rejuvenation of the Puerto Madero district, once an abandoned port now an artsy, cultural and entertainment hub. Nearby are entertainment hot spots, restaurants and bars. The excellent hotel is a work of art, an early 20th century building transformed into 21st century urban chic!

BUENOS AIRES CITY TOUR Take in the highlights of this magical city on a half day tour. Drive along the widest street in the world, '9th July Avenue' while on your way to San Telmo. Head to La Boca, a famously colourful and picturesque neighbourhood where Italian immigrants once settled. Also visit Evitaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mausoleum in the Recoleta Cemetery.

ULTIMATE ARGENTINE CUISINE EXPERIENCE

ARGENT EN GL AND I NA

SIGHTSEEING

A DAY IN COLONIA , URUGUAY

Whether you're a cooking enthusiast or novice, this small group dining experience is fun and entertaining, giving you a glimpse into the country's culture. Make your own empanadas and taste some of Argentina's juiciest steaks, before learning how to make your own alfajores.

Discover the UNESCO World heritage-listed Uruguayan town of Colonia del Sacramento. Depart Argentina on an hour ferry ride across the Rio del La Plate River, and take a guided walking tour of Colonia. After lunch, spend the afternoon discovering the quaint and peaceful town on your own before returning to Buenos Aires by ferry.

LA VENTANA DINNER & TANGO SHOW

FIESTA GAUCHA TOUR

FOGON ASADO EXPERIENCE

You simply canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t visit Buenos Aires without experiencing a dinner and Tango show! Sample some fantastic Argentine cuisine accompanied by excellent local wines, while sitting back and enjoying an evening of famous Tango dancing. Enjoy a selection of tango and folklore, representing several eras of Argentine history.

Head to the countryside where you will enjoy traditional dances and songs on this unique and delightful full day tour in the Argentine outback. Watch a 'gaucho' demonstration performed by the locals and be amazed at their horse back riding skills.

Discover the Argentine Asado tradition, served with a twist. Fogon is a closed-door dining experience that explores new ways of serving Argentine classics. Help to make the classic Chimichurri sauce to go with a sumptuous steak and enjoy watching the chefs cook at their station right in front of you.

ARGENT ENGL AN I ND A

IGUAZU FALLS There are no other waterfalls on this planet that match the absolute magnificence, size or sheer water volumes that tumble over the astonishing Iguazu Falls. Situated near the town of Puerto Iguazu, more than 275 spectacular falls make this the largest waterfall system in the world. The Argentine side sits above the falls, offering great views across masses of water plunging 70 metres into the abyss below.

A Taste of Iguazu Falls Packages to get you started...

Mercure Iguazu Hotel

Loi Suites Iguazu Hotel

Includes: • Two nights accommodation • Breakfast daily • Return airport transfers • Half Day Argentina Falls Tour • Half Day Brazil Falls Tour • Argentina and Brazil National Park fees

Located in the heart of the Iguazu jungle, Mercure Iguazu combines comfort and natural resources in its rooms and common areas, allowing the surrounding environment to influence the hotel's atmosphere. Rooms are very modern and spacious, not far from Iguazu Falls and the main tourist attractions.

Note: For thrill-seekers, consider the Gran Aventura Boat ride and Heli-flight over the falls! (additional costs)

Loi Suites is located in Puerto Iguazu with easy access to shops, cafés and restaurants and the majestic Iguazu Falls only being 17 kilometres away. This hotel is situated in the subtropical jungle and built with respect to surrounding nature. All rooms have an amazing view of the jungle, allowing you to appreciate exactly where you are.

Price Guide From: $525

Price Guide From: $695

Foz do Iguacu Cataratas International Airport (Brazil) Puerto Iguazu

BRAZIL

Melia Iguazu Hotel ARGENTINA

Iguazu Falls Iguazu National Park

Iguazu International Airport (Argentina)

Belmond Hotel Das Cataratas, Brazil

Wake up to the lush heart of Iguazu National Park in your luxurious room at the Melia Iguazu Hotel. Choose from either a Falls view or a Jungle view. Each room has a private balcony with large windows to make you feel even closer to this amazing slice of nature, one of the most talked about in the world.

This luxurious colonial style hotel is located inside the Brazilian National Park. Rooms are decorated in Portuguese style, displaying artwork by well known Brazilian designers. A walking track leading from the front of the hotel will give you unlimited access to this magnificent sight, even when the park is closed to other visitors.

Price Guide From: $965

Price Guide From: $1150

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

ARGENT I NA

Best of Buenos Aires

Iguazu Falls & Ibera Wetlands

5 days/4 nights

6 days/5 nights

One of the great cities of the world – Buenos Aires has fascinating culture, folklore, music, tango and juicy steaks. Unveil the hidden delights of Buenos Aires, and make sure to dance, eat and drink as the locals do.

Iguazu Falls are a superb place to begin your Argentine wildlife adventure, surrounded by jungle and home to varied wildlife. Then to the second largest wetlands in the world – the Ibera wetlands are an incredible watery wilderness home to hundreds of species of birds, the peculiar pig like peccaries, ambling armadillos and elusive jaguar!

Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires Transfer to your hotel before heading out to one of our favourite restaurants for your introduction to the Argentina ‘Asado’ – Argentine BBQ.

Day 1: Iguazu Arrive in Iguazu and transfer to your hotel for two nights.

Day 2: Buenos Aires Enjoy your city tour exploring diverse neighbourhoods and all the main sights. Finish off at the Recoleta Cemetery – a must visit on your Buenos Aires stay. Tonight’s tango show will have you totally mesmerised and is accompanied by dinner and local wines. Day 3: Buenos Aires Head out to the pampas to experience a working Estancia. An awesome day immersed with the Argentine Gauchos. Day 4: Buenos Aires A free day to wander this amazing city before your evening Argentine Experience dinner. Sample an array of local dishes, with some great entertainment thrown in. Day 5: Buenos Aires Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Day 2: Iguazu Enjoy a full day tour of the Argentine side of the falls, offering a variety of walks to view the falls and through the surrounding jungle. Take a half day tour of the Brazil side of the falls, both sides utterly spectacular. Day 3: Ibera Wetlands This morning you will be collected for the drive to the Esteros del Ibera (Ibera Wetlands). The drive takes around four hours. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-site, San Ignacio Miní Jesuit Mission Ruins on the way. Check into a beautiful Estancia style hotel on the banks of the Parana River for three nights. Day 4-5: Ibera Wetlands There are a range of activities organised by the estancia for you get the best out of exploring the Ibera Natural Reserve. Get up close to some of the many species in one of the largest fresh water reservoirs on the continent, and the largest protected area in Argentina. A vast area of over 20,000 kilometres squared, hosts more than 350 bird species, as well as unique species like the neotropical otter, the maned wolf and the Pampas deer to name a few. Day 6: Ibera Wetlands Today you will be transferred to Posadas airport for your onward flight.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 4 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 3 dinners, return airport transfers & sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary

Inclusions: 5 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, all meals while in Ibera Wetlands, transport & sightseeing mentioned, airport transfers

Price Guide From: $1795

Price Guide From: $3625

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

ARGENT I N A The Northwest

Perito Moreno Glacier

4 days/3 nights

The Northwest is one of the most scenic areas of the country, a region of wine and stunning landscapes. Spectacular gorges are interspersed by quaint towns with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and adobe houses.

The Perito Moreno Glacier is the longest and widest glacier in the world outside Antarctica, a truly spectacular sight. This package will showcase the five kilometre wide glacier, as well as the surrounding Patagonia forest.

Day 1: Salta Transfer from Salta Airport to your hotel. Enjoy an afternoon tour through this city full of Spanish and colonial architecture; this alone attracts visitors to come from far and wide.

Day 1: El Calafate Transfer from the airport to your hotel in El Calafate. Spend some time in the afternoon getting to know this charming area.

Day 2: Humahuaca Your full day tour will take you to San Salvador de Jujuy, before continuing to Humahuaca Gorge. The region has always been a crossroads for economic, social and cultural communication, once being the Camino Inca. Stop along the way at Pucara (home to an old Indian Fortress) and an archaeological museum. Return to Salta. Day 3: Cafayate Drive through the spectacular Calchaqui Valley to Cafayate, the wine area of the Northwest. After a short stroll through the village, enjoy some wine tasting at one of the local vineyards. Return to Salta.

Day 2: Perito Moreno Glacier Enjoy a full day tour to Perito Moreno Glacier. Experience the movement of the surrounding glaciers and listen out for the enormous pieces of ice that can often break away and crash into the lake. Day 3: Rios de Helio This full day trip starts with a transfer to Puerto Bandera to board a catamaran for your cruise on Argentino Lake. Glide amongst enormous icebergs in the Upsala and Spegassini channel before approaching the immense size and varied forms of several glaciers in the region. Return to El Calafate for your last evening in this buzzing town.

Day 4: Salta Transfer to the airport where your tour ends.

Day 4: El Calafate After breakfast, transfer to El Calafate Airport to meet your onward arrangements.

Departures: Daily

Departures: Daily in Nov-Apr (Patagonia season)

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, transport & sightseeing mentioned in itinerary

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, transport, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary, national park fees

Price Guide From: $585

Price Guide From: $830

Humahuaca in the Northwest

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

ARGENT I NA

Lakes & Glaciers 6 days/5 nights

Argentina Culture, Wineries & Landscape 12 days/11 nights

Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls & Rio de Janeiro 10 days/9 nights

Head to the Los Glaciares National Park in the south-west of Argentina to see the immense Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. Then journey into the beautiful lakes district staying in Bariloche, the perfect base for explorations.

From enchanting Buenos Aires to the foothills of the Andes, to the arid northwest and onto Iguazu Falls. Encounter vibrant and diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, spectacular gorges, with quaint towns, colonial architecture and regions of beautiful food and wine.

Combine the mesmerising city of Buenos Aires and its Tango culture with the thundering Iguazu Falls, before heading to the beautifully located city of Rio de Janeiro to soak up the sun and sip a caipirinha on the beach.

Day 1: El Calafate Transfer from the airport to your hotel in El Calafate. Spend some time in the afternoon getting to know this charming area.

Day 1: Buenos Aires Transfer from Buenos Aires Airport to your hotel for three nights.

Day 1: Buenos Aires Transfer to your hotel for a four night stay.

Day 2: Perito Moreno Glacier Enjoy a full day tour to Perito Moreno Glacier, the largest of 48 glaciers fed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. The glacier empties into Lake Argentino and appears over 74 metres above the surface of the lake in parts and is over 5 kilometres wide. Day 3: El Calafate – Bariloche Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bariloche. Check into your hotel for three nights. Day 4: Bariloche Enjoy a half day Bariloche tour that will show you the best of the city and its surrounding landscapes, including breath-taking views of the Andes and the fabulous Lake Nahuel Huapi. You’ll pass through stunning scenery before reaching the foot of Mount Campanario where you can catch a ski-lift to the top for views over the national park. Day 5: Bariloche Today take a full day Blest Port and Los Cantaros Waterfalls Tour. Sailing its green waters, you’ll arrive at Puerto Cántaros. Walk through the lush Valdivian forest to the pretty Cántaros waterfall. Arriving at Puerto Blest you find a lakeside hamlet and lovely views across the lake. Day 6: Bariloche After breakfast transfer to the airport for your onward arrangements.

Day 2-3: Buenos Aires Discover the beauty and magic of Buenos Aires as you visit the Plaza de Mayo, San Pedro Telmo Church and Caminito in the colourful La Boca neighbourhood. Visit the famous Recoleta Cemetery where amongst others you’ll find the mausoleum of Eva ‘Evita’ Peron. The next evening enjoy a three-course meal and superb tango show, washed down with local Argentine wine. Day 4: Buenos Aires – Mendoza Transfer from the hotel for your flight to Mendoza. With a stunning Andean backdrop this is the largest wine producing area of the country, and an adventure and food capital! Day 5-6: Mendoza Arguably the tastiest day on the itinerary. Malbec is the most famous wine of the region, experience wine tastings and a gourmet lunch. Olive oil is also a major part of the region’s economy and this full day tour shows the work of outstanding producers in the Lujan de Cuyo area. Day 7-9: Mendoza – Salta Fly to Salta, one of the most beautiful cities in Latin America where you will experience the history and colonial architecture. Nearby are stunning canyons, multi coloured gorges and more wineries to visit on a full day tour of the Quebrada de Humahuaca.

Day 2-4: Buenos Aires Buenos Aires has a population of around 2.8 million people, who refer to themselves as porteños meaning people of the port. The European influence is very evident in its architecture, and its centre which is as grand as Paris or Madrid, gives way to a sprawling metropolis which has many fascinating districts to explore. Learn about the city on a half day city tour, and enjoy your evening at the La Ventana Dinner and Tango Show. Day 5-6: Buenos Aires – Iguazu Falls Fly to Iguazu Falls for a two night stay, and see both sides of the astonishing falls on guided tours. Set within two nationals parks on both the Argentine and Brazil sides, the rainforest here is home to many exotic species, which contributes to make this natural wonder of the world even more awe inspiring. Day 7-9: Iguazu Falls – Rio de Janeiro Fly to Rio de Janeiro for a three night stay. Known for being a flamboyant and exuberant city, there is a sense of glamour around its famous neighbourhoods. On a city tour visit 'Christ the Redeemer' and take a cable car up Sugarloaf mountain. Day 10: Rio de Janeiro Make the most of one last morning in Rio before transferring back to the airport, where your arrangements will end.

Day 10-11: Salta – Iguazu Fly Salta to Iguazu for one last super exciting burst, with tours of both the Argentina and Brazil sides of the incredible Iguazu Falls. Day 12: Iguazu Transfer to the airport for your onward arrangements.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 5 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, airport transfers & sightseeing as mentioned (Domestic flights additional)

Inclusions: 11 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, airport transfers, transport & sightseeing as mentioned (Domestic flights additional)

Price Guide From: $845

Price Guide From: $2865

Inclusions: 9 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, dinner and Tango Show, airport transfers, sightseeing as mentioned & National Park fees at Iguazu Falls (Domestic flights additional) Price Guide From: $2190

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

ANTARCT I CA

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO SEE AND DO Zodiac Cruise – On all Expedition ships you’ll experience a zodiac cruise. These

ANTARCTICA Antarctica is a continent of vast extremes. Beautiful and tranquil, savage and fierce while its sheer size is incomprehensible. It’s a land of pristine whiteness where gigantic icebergs protrude from the ocean, all shaped and carved by the elements. Where amazing patterns of blue pass you by on floating ice chunks and the roar of glaciers echo between sheer-sided channel walls. The shores are home to hundreds of squawking penguin rookeries, seal colonies as well as nesting seabirds. Be warned, weather and ice, not clocks and calendars, will set the schedule here.

sturdy inflatable boats take you from ship to shore for regular excursions. They are also perfect to cruise around the icy waters when there are things to explore, to get you up close to ice bergs, scenery and wildlife.

Watch Penguins – From one of the zodiacs you might see penguins lolling around ice bergs but it’s when you get onto land and to one of rookeries that you will see thousands of these super cute creatures in action. There are several species of penguin that inhabit the Antarctic peninsula. Endlessly fascinating to watch, they can also be pretty curious themselves, so don’t be surprised if one waddles up to you for a look.

Photography – Antarctica is one of the most photogenic places on earth yet can also be one of the most difficult to photograph. They’ll be various experts onboard delivering daily lectures and often the ships include a photographic expert, on hand to give you tips on how to get the best shots in this icy wonderland.

Polar Plunge – For many a rite of passage to complete their Antarctic experience, for some a crazy spectacle watching fellow passengers jump into the freezing cold waters. On almost all the voyages there is the chance to take this plunge. The crew will prepare you, support you and everyone will cheer you on for your leap into the Polar waters.

Camping On The Ice – One of the most unique sleeping experiences you can have. Camping out in Antarctica is quite out there, as if you weren’t remote enough already. Wrap up warm, get the thermals on, then enjoy the stillness, the sounds of the ice moving and the Antarctic night sky. In the middle of the austral summer you’ll experience midnight sun and at the start and end of the season spectacular stars. Most cruises offer ice camping, spaces are limited and must be pre booked.

AN EN TARCT GL ANDI CA

Antarctica Classic

Antarctic Whale Journey

11 days/10 nights

10 days/9 nights

One of our most popular itineraries, and a true adventure to a world of immense scale and visual splendour. This 11 day expedition will introduce you to the magic of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.

The Whale migration is spectacular, where you will spend your days with wildlife encounters. Visit penguin rookeries, spot seals along the shores and witness seabirds nesting in their thousands. Head out on the Zodiacs to get a closer look at all the creatures inhabiting the regions, scouting for minke, humpback whales and Orcas.

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina Day 2: Ushuaia/Drake Passage Day 3-4: Drake Passage/South Shetlands Islands Day 5-8: South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula Day 9-10: Drake Passage/Ushuaia Day 11: Disembark Ushuaia

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina Day 2: Ushuaia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Embarkation Day Day 3-4: Drake Passage Day 5-7: Antarctic Peninsula Day 8-9: Drake Passage Crossing Day 10: Disembark Ushuaia

Inclusions: 9 nights aboard the G Expedition with private bathroom, 1 night Ushuaia, all onboard meals, return airport transfers, port taxes, excursions & lectures, waterproof boots, expedition jacket

Departures: Set Departures

Price Guide From: $9999

Inclusions: 8 nights onboard Ocean Endeavour with private bathroom, 1 night Ushuaia, all onboard meals, port taxes, airport transfers, excursions & lectures Price Guide From: $11,940

Antarctica Explorer Voyage

Falkland Islands & South Georgia

11 days/10 nights

20 days/19 nights

Travel on the new state-of-the-art vessel and one of the most advanced expedition ships in the world. With a patented X-BOW, the inverted bow allows for a more gentle sea crossing. With some incredible features like the fold out hydraulic viewing platform, you will feel totally immersed in this awe-inspiring piece of the world.

This extended expedition encompasses the wildlife paradise of South Georgia, the remote Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and the extraordinary beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. Days are spent exploring on shore and cruising in Zodiacs where you will witness incredible scenery, wildlife and large tubular icebergs with the most amazing colours you have ever seen.

Day 1: Overnight in Punta Arenas Day 2: Fly Punta Arenas to King George Island. Embark the Greg Mortimer Day 3-8: Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands Day 9-10: Drake Passage Crossing Day 11: Disembark Ushuaia

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina Day 2-3: At Sea Day 4-5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) Day 6-7: At Sea Day 8-11: South Georgia Day 12-13: At Sea Day 14-17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula Day 18-19: Drake Passage Crossing Day 20: Disembark Ushuaia

Inclusions: 9 nights aboard the Greg Mortimer with private bathroom, 1 night Punta Arenas, all onboard meals, return airport transfers, port taxes, excursions & lectures, waterproof boots, expedition jacket

Departures: Set departures

Price Guide From: $22,630

Inclusions: 18 nights aboard Ocean Adventurer or Ocean Diamond with private bathroom, 1 night Ushuaia, all onboard meals, port taxes, airport transfers, excursions & lectures Price Guide From: $23,650

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, in a twin or triple cabin based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EXPERIENCE BRAZIL

It’s a land of extreme superlatives – the largest rainforest in the world, the second longest river on the

planet and the richest place on earth for animal and plant life. Brazil, with its forests and mighty Amazon River with the phenomena they contain, it covers half of the South American continent. People are the essence of the country, and while Brazil is home to a multitude of ethnic groups, there are some characteristics that everyone shares – fiery energy and passion! Watch a soccer game along with thousands of dancing, drumming and singing spectators; see why the beautiful game is almost a religion in Brazil. Although not all is reserved for football, Brazilians enjoy any good festivity, whatever the occasion. The most notable is Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival, dubbed the largest party in the world. Brasilia is the capital city and easily the fastest growing major city in Brazil. Salvador, is a UNESCO World Heritage-site due to its focus on modern architecture, and being home to a plethora of wonderfully preserved 16th and 17th century buildings. Lastly but definitely not least, Rio is the world's most exhilarating city, even when Rio Carnival is not in its full riotous swing. Its stretches of beaches (including the legendary sands of Copacabana) stunning architecture from baroque to Art Deco, nightlife that carries on until dawn, all merges to create an intoxicating mix. 24

Country name:

Republic Federation of Brazil

Population:

211 million

Capital:

Brasilia

Languages:

Portuguese, Spanish, English, French

Currency:

Brazilian Real

Time zone:

15 hours behind New Zealand (16 hours with daylight saving)

Electricity:

Current is 220V, 60HZ Plug is a 2 point round-pin adaptor

BRAZ I L

FAST FACTS

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO SEE AND DO Foz do Iguaçu – The Iguaçu River plunges in tiered falls at the border with Argentina and Paraguay. The falls are over three kilometres wide and 80 meters high, their beauty is unbelievable. The Brazilian side of the falls offers the best access by foot. Take a walk along the winding path, and you’ll end up exactly where the falls thunder down.

Buzios – Used by the locals as a holiday destination, Buzios makes a perfect stop to truly experience a laid-back version of Brazil. Just under two hours drive from Rio de Janeiro, Buzios offers a number of pristine white sandy beaches, cafés and restaurants. All watersports can be done in this area, as well as a spot of shopping.

Rio de Janeiro Carnival – Every February the city’s Samba schools vie to be the best – taking to the streets to perform pulsating dance routines in jaw-dropping costumes. Passionate Brazilians who samba in the streets have made Rio de Janeiro’s carnival the world’s biggest party. Whether you dance it out on the streets, watch the thousands of participants in their elaborate costumes in the Samba parade, or attend the fairy tale Copacabana Palace ball, this is one event on the party calendar not to miss!

Paraty – Just a quick jaunt from Rio de Janeiro you’ll find Paraty and the glistening bay of Ilha Grande. Dotted with many tropical islands, forests, mountains and waterfalls, Paraty and the Green Coast is most definitely a slice of heaven on earth. Paraty is known for the dainty cobblestone streets and 250 year old architecture throughout town. Leave your cars at home, this is a town to wander, bike ride, or take a leisurely horse and cart adventure.

The Amazon from Manaus – Although the Amazon can be reached via several inlets across South America, the gateway from Manaus is particularly unique for reaching serious depths into the Amazon. While there, make sure you pay a visit to meet the renowned pink dolphins.

FRENCH GUIANA SURINAME

VENEZUELA GUYANA COLOMBIA Amazon River

Tefe

Manaus

Belem

ATLANTIC OCEAN

The Amazon

BRAZIL

PERU Cuiaba

BOLIVIA

Salvador

BRASILIA

The Pantanal

Belo Horizonte Campo Buzios Grande Paraty PARAGUAY Sao Paulo Rio de Janeiro Iguazu Curitiba Falls Porto Alegre

ARGENTINA URUGUAY

BRAZ I L 26

RIO DE JANEIRO Rio is everything you have heard about and more. One of the most energetic cities in the world, it pulsates with passion; from the sexy samba rhythms of its colourful carnival to the beautiful bodies that line the stunning beaches, not to mention the vibrant nightlife. Visit some of the most famous landmarks such as Corcovado Peak for stunning city views and the statue of Christ the Redeemer. Copacabana is Brazil’s most famous beach, while neighbouring Ipanema is Rio’s richest and most chic beach.

Windsor Excelsior Hotel

Mama Shelter Santa Teresa

Windsor California

With a beautiful view of the ocean and the statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Peak, the elegant Windsor Excelsior Hotel is located on the world-famous Copacabana Beach. This hotel enjoys an array of shops, restaurants and nightclubs all within easy walking distance.

This 55-room boutique hotel is a hip addition in the artsy hilltop district of Santa Teresa. The district is known for it’s urbane music and art scene and is a pleasant alternative to the famous downtown beach districts. There’s eclectic design and décor throughout the hotel including a cool cocktail bar and restaurant with warm and friendly staff.

Perfectly located on Copacabana Beach, the Windsor California is one of our favourites. With friendly staff, and amazing rooftop pool views right along Copa beach, it offers easy access to all the main sights, shops, restaurants and cafés. Rooms are modern and spacious, with the balcony rooms most popular to watch the sun go down.

Arena Copacabana Hotel

Miramar By Windsor

Fairmont Rio de Janeiro

Across from the famous Copacabana beach the Arena Copacabana has 135 guest rooms and suites, minimalistic, bright and colourful, clean and chic. The contemporary and eco friendly design hotel has the amenities you’d expect with the added bonus of one of the most astounding ocean views in the world… best enjoyed from your room or it’s rooftop bar!

Ideally located right on Copacabana Beach, the beautiful Miramar By Windsor guarantees your stay on the most famous beach in the world is of the highest standard. The architecture and interior designers have ensured a perfect balance between classic and contemporary style, ensuring your stay in Rio is a luxurious one.

The epitome of luxury, the Fairmont Rio de Janeiro is located at the southern end of Copacabana Beach, just a 10-minute stroll to Copacabana Fort. The hotel is a glamourous oasis with two swimming pools, spa, sauna, fitness centre, bars and a coffee shop. Its restaurant faces the ocean and has superb dining. The generous rooms offer comfort and great views!

RIO SCENARIUM

FAVELA TOUR

TIJUCA FOREST JEEP TOUR

Full of character this historic building is now home to Rio Scenarium Bar and nightclub. A hot spot for locals and visitors to Rio alike. Good food, live music and a party atmosphere make this a great night out. A great chance to experience some classic Rio nightlife.

An illuminating experience if you are looking for an insiders view of Brazil. This half day tour will introduce you to a different Rio, the favela (shanty town). There are close to 600 favelas in the city of Rio, mostly placed on former public areas over hillsides with the best views of Rio.

Experience the world's largest urban forest on a half day open-top Jeep ride. Take a relaxed trail hike to get close-up views of wild animals and waterfalls, plants and panoramic views. Feel the fresh crisp air and enjoy some time in the Brazil nature.

SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN TOUR

CORCOVADO TOUR

SANTA TERESA DISCOVERY

Join this half day tour and catch a cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain, standing at 1,299 feet high. After the scenic ride up, you will be greeted with 360 degree views of Rio de Janeiro city and the surrounding beaches including Copacabana. This is a 'must-do' tour while you are in Rio, as long as you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind heights!

This half day tour helps you to reach the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer. Head through Tijuca National Park and take a train up the steep slopes of Corcovado Peak. Once at the top, climb the last few steps to reach the feet of the famous statue, where you can share his fantastic views over Rio de Janeiro.

Hit the subway like a local, up to the classic suburb of Santa Teresa for some arts, culture, history, and architecture. The lovely Bohemian district of Santa Teresa is considered to be Rio's version of Montmartre. Visit the iconic and picturesque Selaron's Staircase to see the late artist's masterpiece.

BRAZ I L

SIGHTSEEING

BRAZ I L Rio & Buzios

Rio & Paraty

Salvador Escape

6 days/5 nights

7 days/6 nights

5 days/4 nights

Specifically designed for those who are looking for beaches outside of Rio de Janeiro, Buzios is a vibrant seaside village just a couple hours drive from Rio. Enjoy the rustic charm and buzzing atmosphere of a historic fishing village, coupled with a row of pristine beaches.

Experience the must-see sights of Rio de Janeiro, the city that likes to party. Then head to Paraty a scenic coastal town with a rich colonial history. Wander its cobblestone streets and enjoy a schooner cruise to show off the remote bays that enticed the early settlers.

Experience the diversity of history and culture of Salvador, known for its local festivals, warming sensuality, colourful vibrant people and some of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches. Salvador is perfect for unique culture with a dose of beach time.

Day 1: Rio de Janeiro Arrive in Rio de Janeiro, transfer to your Hotel for a three-night stay in this famous city that is home to around 7 million people. Residents of Rio are nicknamed Cariocas, the word coming from the Tupi language of an ancient native tribe of the region.

Day 1: Rio de Janeiro On arrival into Rio, transfer to the Windsor California Hotel for a three-night stay. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Day 1: Salvador On arrival, transfer to Pestana Convento do Carmo Bahia for a four night stay. This hotel is in a converted 16th century convent. While the hotel retains many historical features, including the cloisters now home to the bar and restaurant, it also has a spa, fitness centre and a swimming pool. The First Order of Carmelite Monks who originally constructed a convent on the site had no such luxuries! Full of character it is located near the Pelourinho the most famous area of the historic centre of Salvador.

Day 2-3: Rio de Janeiro On a full day of sightseeing you will head up to see Christ the Redeemer with an amazing view over Rio. Then again when you catch the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain and take in the sweeping city views. The rest of your time is free to relax on the beach or go exploring in this stunning city. Day 4: Rio de Janeiro – Buzios Transfer to Buzios, around two-three hours, making it the perfect side trip. Check-into a cosy pousada with plenty of character. Buzios is the town centre of an 8 kilometre peninsula with over twenty beaches, and comes alive at night, with its cobblestone streets full of restaurants and bars. Day 5: Buzios The Buzios open-top trolley adventure is a great way to get to know the peninsula. Visit several beaches with picture-perfect lookouts. Day 6: Buzios – Rio de Janeiro Transfer back to Rio de Janeiro where your arrangements end.

Day 2-3: Rio de Janeiro The next two days are spent soaking up the sights and sounds of this famous city. Spend a full day visiting Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain; both will showcase fantastic views of Rio. There’s time for you to enjoy Ipanema Beach with the locals, join in a game of beach football or just sit back and people watch. If you need a detox, try an Acai berry smoothie. Day 4: Rio de Janeiro – Paraty Depart the city for Paraty, it won't take long to wind down in this slow-paced cobblestone town. Check-in to Pousada da Marquesa for three nights. Paraty was once an important port for the Portuguese. Some of the world’s richest gold mines were located in the mountains behind, and the gold was transported by road to go on ships back to Europe. The legacy of those times being a beautiful colonial centre of cobblestone streets and historical houses. Day 5-6: Paraty Make the most of your stay in Paraty by taking a cruise around the bays, also a guided walking tour of Paraty will show you corners that you may not have discovered yourself. Day 7: Paraty – Rio de Janeiro Transfer back to Rio de Janeiro to finish your arrangements.

Day 2: Salvador Walking City Tour Explore the historical district of Salvador on a half day walking tour. Visit Fort de São Pedro that was originally built to protect the city from invasion. Other attractions such as the Barra Lighthouse, Pelourinho and Teatro Castro Alves, home to the ballet and Bahian Symphony Orchestra. The rest of the day is free to enjoy Salvador. Day 3: Salvador Spend a day at leisure, exploring Salvador in your own time. Try an Acarajé, a tasty local phenomenon at Mercado Modelo - or find your way to an Olodum Afro-Brazilian Band performance to feel the local vibes. Day 4: Schooner Cruise Board a schooner for a full day of cruising. Drift along All Saints Bay enjoying an unforgettable view of the old part of Salvador. You'll pass several islands including the famous Frade Island, surrounded by groves of palm trees and warm crystal clear waters. Swim, snorkel and catch some Bahia rays! Day 5: Salvador Airport After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward arrangements.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 3 nights Rio de Janeiro, 2 nights Buzios, breakfast daily, return airport transfers, transport between hotels, full day Corcovado and Sugarloaf tour, half day Buzios trolley tour

Inclusions: 3 nights Rio de Janeiro, 3 nights Paraty, breakfast daily, return airport transfers, transport between hotels, full day Corcovado and Sugarloaf tour, half day Paraty walking tour, half day Paraty Schooner Cruise

Inclusions: 4 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, return airport transfers, half day Salvador walking city tour, full day schooner cruise

Price Guide From: $1210

Price Guide From: $825

Price Guide From: $1575

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

BRAZ I L

12 days/11 nights

FRENCH GUIANA SURINAME

VENEZUELA GUYANA

Highlights of Brazil

COLOMBIA

The fifth largest country in the World hosts an incredible array of terrain, natural wonders, biodiversity and cultural diversity, heaving cities and wild untouched wilderness. Here we try to unravel the best of Brazil in a sensational itinerary. Day 1-3: Rio de Janeiro Arrive in Rio and transfer to your hotel for three nights. Beaches, sun, football, beautiful and friendly people, bossa nova and samba. Hello Rio! Enjoy a half day tour to Corcovado and the iconic 1145-ton Christ the Redeemer statue for stunning views. On another half day Sugar PERU Loaf Mountain tour, a series of cable cars give you the most amazing 360-degree views over the city and its famous beaches. Day 4-5: Foz do Iguassu Transfer to the airport in Rio for your flight to Foz do Iguassu. Transfer to your hotel for two nights. Visit the both sides of the thundering falls and from wooden walkways see the astonishing cascades. Day 6-7: Salvador Depart Iguassu for the flight to Salvador where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll stay for two nights. The city is a fusion of the colonial and the modern, with an Afro-Brazilian flavour making for a captivating cultural cauldron. Enjoy a half day historic city tour, the vibrant colonial old centre being a UNESCO World Heritage-site. Day 8: Manaus Transfer to Salvador airport for the flight to Manaus. Transfer to your hotel in Manaus and check-in for one night in this sophisticated city by the Amazon.

Manaus

Amazon River

Tefe

Belem

ATLANTIC OCEAN

The Amazon

BRAZIL Cuiaba

BOLIVIA

Salvador

BRASILIA

The Pantanal

Belo Horizonte Buzios Paraty PARAGUAY Sao Paulo Rio de Janeiro Iguazu Curitiba Falls

Campo Grande

Porto Alegre

ARGENTINA URUGUAY

Day 9-11: Amazon Rain Forest Transfer to the pier for a speed boat transfer via the meeting of the waters and lunch on a floating restaurant. Then onto your Eco Lodge, your home in the Amazon Jungle for three nights. Days are filled with expert guided walks and boat trips to witness the incredible flora and fauna of the Amazon. Day 12: Manaus Transfer back to the airport for your onward travels.

Departures: Daily Inclusions: 11 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, all meals & daily scheduled activities in the Amazon, airport transfers & sightseeing mentioned (Domestic flights additional) Price Guide From: $3265

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

BRAZ I L

BRAZIL AMAZON & PANTANAL Covering almost half of Brazil, and spilling into neighbouring countries, the Amazon is a gigantic system of rivers and forests. Best experienced on the river with a cruise, or by spending a few days in a lodge, the wildlife, flora and fauna is unbelievable. Equally incredible, the Pantanal is another option which is considered even better for wildlife. It's the largest wetland on the planet and lies in the far west of Brazil. The Pantanal is a sanctuary for giant river otters, anacondas, iguanas, jaguars, cougars and crocodiles.

Glass Bungalow, Anavilhanas Lodge

Amazon Ecopark Lodge

Anavilhanas Lodge

3 days/2 nights

Amazon Ecopark Lodge is a great introduction to the Brazilian Amazon, just one hour from Manaus in the heart of a preserved forest. From here you can visit local Amazonian homes, fish for piranha, go alligator spotting and see how monkeys are rehabilitated back into their natural habitat.

Anavilhanas Lodge is an intimate and luxurious lodge located just over two hours drive from Manaus. Activities are in abundance from canoeing to wildlife viewing including a visit to meet the pink river dolphins. Choose to stay in a delightful garden cottage or treat yourself to a supreme glass bungalow to maximise the stunning surroundings.

Day 1: Manaus You will be met at Manaus Airport or in town for your transfer by boat and vehicle to Amazon Ecopark Lodge. Listen to the sounds of the jungle at night by canoe as you look out for alligators.

Day 1: Manaus You will be met at Manaus Airport or in town for the transfer to Anavilhanas Lodge which will take just over two hours, transporting you deep into the Amazon. Your luxurious garden cottage or glass bungalow awaits.

Day 2: The Brazil Amazon Your full day of Amazon adventures awaits you. Take part in exciting nature hikes, explore the Monkey Forest and visit a local village. Learn about their traditions, customs and the rich history of the Amazon. Return to Amazon Ecopark Lodge for lunch before an activity in the afternoon. Discover the ongoing sights and sounds of the dark as you enjoy another night in the Amazon.

Day 2: The Brazil Amazon Anavilhanas Lodge offers an array of different activities from boat cruises, hiking and piranha fishing - many different perspectives in which to experience the Amazon. An unforgettable highlight of your Amazon visit will be the sunrise walk, absorbing the forest while it is waking up, a great way to start anyone's day.

Day 3: Manaus Enjoy one last morning in this fascinating environment before being transferred back to Manaus Town or Airport, where your arrangements will end.

Day 3: Manaus Take part in another activity this morning, before being transferred back to Manaus where your Amazon experience will end.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, return transport from Manaus Airport or Town, all meals & scheduled daily activities

Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, return transport from Manaus Airport or Town, all meals and scheduled daily activities

Price Guide From: $840

Price Guide From: $1750 (Standard Cottage)

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

BRAZ I L

M/V Desafio Cruise

The Pantanal – Araras Eco Lodge

4 days/3 nights

One of the best ways to explore the Amazon is through its rivers. Starting in the Amazon city of Manaus, set off for a cruise aboard the M/V Desafio a traditional three-mast boutique sailing ship with 12 cabins. Every year from May-September water fills the floodplains on the Amazon affording a unique opportunity to explore deep into the forest.

The Brazilian Pantanal is the world’s largest freshwater wetlands, home to an incredible density of wildlife with thousands of species. The superbly located Araras Eco Lodge is your base to explore. Through a combination of boat rides, hikes, horse riding and night tours the naturalist guides aim to show you everything this UNESCO World Heritage area can offer.

Day 1: Manaus Board the M/V Desafio at 2pm and depart Manaus. Explore the largest river archipelago in the world - Anavilhanas, with lakes, islands, creeks and flooded forests. Naturalist guides highlight the flora and fauna.

Day 1: Cuiabá Arrive at Cuiabá Airport or pick up from your hotel and transfer to Araras Eco Lodge. Afternoon hike to experience the flora and fauna and enjoy a sunset view. After dinner take a night walk to hear the environment nocturnally and see the spectacular sky at night.

Day 2: The Anavilhanas Islands Set off for a sunrise motor boat ride in the forest, hear diverse bird song and hike walking trails for wildlife viewing. In the afternoon you’ll meet an indigenous community and learn a little about their daily life in the jungle. Day 3: Rio Negro – Meeting of the waters A chance to have an amazing interaction with Amazon pink dolphins which gather to be fed at a research station on the river. Later, sail to where the Negro and Solimoes rivers meet and try fishing for piranha! After dinner, canoe ride in search of caimans and other nocturnal animals.

Day 2-3: Pantanal Lowlands Spend two full days observing Araras Private Reserve. This can include a horse ride through wonderful pastures and woods, a canoe tour along the wetlands or heading off on foot to make the most of this amazing environment. Day 4: Cuiabá A sunrise hike will ensure a perfect finish to your visit at Araras Eco Lodge. The transfer back to Cuiabá will be a photographic opportunity in itself. Arrangements end at Cuiabá Airport or hotel.

Day 4: Manaus Enjoy breakfast before you sail back to Manaus.

Departures: Set departures Thursday-Sunday (May-Sep)

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 3 nights M/V Desafio, all meals and scheduled sightseeing, professional guides, nightly entertainment, some drinks included, all transfers

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation, all meals & scheduled daily activities at lodge, return transport from Cuiabá Airport or Town

Price Guide From: $2745 (Lower Deck Cabin) $3620 (Upper Deck Cabin)

Price Guide From: $1890

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EXPERIENCE PERU

A realm of lost empires from the Incas to the Spanish Conquistadors, Peru is the perfect blend of

intriguing history, fascinating cultures and stunning natural landscapes. The gateway to Peru’s treasures is its capital, Lima, which was once one of South America’s wealthiest cities. Peru is also home to South America’s most famed attraction and one of the new seven wonders of the world – Machu Picchu. These ancient Inca ruins which have laid hidden in the Andes for centuries are an unforgettable sight, and also considerably rewarding for intrepid travellers who reach them by walking one of the world’s most awesome hikes, the Inca Trail. Machu Picchu is definitely good reason enough to visit Peru, but this country offers so much more. There are the spectacular 5000 metre plus Andes Mountains, Amazonian jungles where indigenous tribes still live traditional lifestyles, and the breath-takingly high altitude of Lake Titicaca. Take a boat cruise and visit locals who still live on the floating islands that are man made from totora reeds. It’s not just the Incas who are surrounded by myths and legends, another intriguing Peruvian sight is the Nazca Lines – mysterious drawings etched into the desert. Best seen from the air, the lines remain steeped in controversy – no one is quite sure why ancient people created them 1000 years ago, but they still rattle the thoughts and presumptions of geologists today. 32

Country name:

Republic of Peru

Population:

32.6 million

Capital:

Lima

Languages:

Spanish

Currency:

Nuevo Sol

Time zone:

17 hours behind New Zealand (18 hours with daylight saving)

Electricity:

Current is 220V, 60HZ Plug is a 2 point round or rectangle-pin adaptor

PERU

FAST FACTS

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO SEE AND DO Puno & Lake Titicaca – Puno lies on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest lake in the world, and the largest lake in South America. Boat trips can be made from here to Uros, Taquile and Amantani Islands. The Uros Indians reside on the floating islands which they build with the lakes reeds, and dress in impressive traditional clothing. Taquile and Amantani Islands have a number of Inca ruins scattered about, adding more pieces to the puzzle of Peruvian history.

Northern Peru – This area is a historical delight full of uncovered national treasures. A short distance from Chiclayo is the eerie tomb of the Lord of Sipan, only just discovered in 1987. North of Chiclayo is Tucume, where dozens of pre-Hispanic pyramids and enclosures lie over 540 acres. Outside Trujillo are the ruins of the imperial city of Chan Chan, built around AD850 then conquered by the Incas in AD1470.

Nazca & South Coast Peru – The Pan-American Highway follows the coast and passes through some interesting areas. Pisco is used by travellers as a base to see the wildlife of the nearby Ballestas Islands, and Paracas Peninsula holds ancient burial sites. Discover the town of Nazca, known for the world-famous Nazca Lines - huge geometric designs mostly of animals and birds which were created between 900BC and 600AD. You can view these designs from the air on small aircrafts.

Arequipa & Colca Canyon – Arequipa lies in the Andes Mountains and is the second biggest city in Peru. Many buildings have been built by white volcanic rock from the Colonial Spanish era with the area now named as an UNESCO World Heritage-site. Near Arequipa is the Colca Canyon, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, but more accessible due to the sloped sides. You’ll find parts of the canyon’s terraces still cultivated by locals from Inca days, but the highlight here is watching the Condor birds soaring around the canyon first thing in the morning.

ECUADOR

COLOMBIA ve

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R iv e r

Iquitos iv iR al

Urub

BRAZIL

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Trujillo

Chiclayo

PERU

e a Riv

S LIMA

Manu National Park

Puerto Maldonado MACHU PICCHU Aguas Calientes Pisac Tambopata Pisco Sacred Cuzco National Park Paracas Valley Nazca BOLIVIA Colca Lake Canyon Puno Titicaca Arequipa

PERU

LIMA & CUZCO Two of the most imposing cities in South America. You can spend days perusing the colonial houses and cathedrals of Lima and marvelling at Inca ingenuity in Cuzco. Peru’s capital Lima was founded in 1535, and Cuzco was the hub of the Inca Empire from the 13th century until the Spanish conquistadors arrived. Both cities have kept up with modern times, shopping opportunities abound and they’re brimming with innovative worldclass hotels and restaurants.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Highlights worth seeing along the way

6 DAYS/5 NIGHTS

The Larco Museum, Lima – Arguably one of the best museums in Latin America that showcases the finest gold and silver collection of ancient Peru, and the famous erotic archaeological collection. Also home to an incredible collection of ceramics dating back some 4000 years, this museum gives you a great picture of Peru history, and the many different civilisations that existed previous to the infamous Inca Empire.

Day 1: Lima You will be picked up from the airport and provided with plenty of information about Lima and Cuzco on your arrival transfer. Check-in to your hotel for a two night stay. Day 2: Lima A full day in Lima awaits you. Lima is the heart of Peruvian history with its many museums such as the Larco and Gold Museum, the catacombs in Saint Francis Monastery and even the Pachacamac Ruins, an archaeological site on the outskirts of Lima which dates back to the 9th century. In between doses of history, save some appetite for the modern and traditional tastes of Lima where you are spoilt for choice. Day 3: Lima – Cuzco Spend a morning in Lima before flying to Cuzco. Arrive in Cuzco and be welcomed by friendly and knowledgeable guides, ready to show you this magical city. Spend three nights in Cuzco, sitting pretty at around 3400 metres above sea level. Cuzco is the perfect spot to acclimatise for a few nights if you plan to walk the mighty Inca Trail. Day 4-5: Cuzco Two full days in Cuzco will be jammed with scintillating experiences that will leave a special mark in your travel memories. Spare some time to soak up the spiritual atmosphere of Cuzco, where the Quechua-speaking descendants of the Incas are still walking the cobblestone streets today. Day 6: Cuzco Transfer to Cuzco Airport for your onward arrangements.

Our favourite places to stay: • • • • •

TRYP, Miraflores, Lima El Pardo Doubletree Hotel Miraflores, Lima Casa Andina Cuzco Plaza, Cuzco Inkaterra La Casona Hotel, Cuzco Belmond Hotel Monasterio, Cuzco

Gastronomy in both cities – Let's start with the fact that Lima is home to two of the top 20 restaurants in the world. Some time focused on food tasting in Lima and Cuzco is going to be a gastronomic adventure; take it one step further and we can arrange a 'foodie' guide to show you beyond the usual tourist eye. From buzzing food markets to traditional restaurants called 'chicherias' - then onward to those high flying degustation journeys, there really is something for all taste buds. Mingling with the locals – We truly believe that the best way to learn about a country is to mix with the locals. Peru is famed for their friendly people, and today in Lima and Cuzco the traditional clothing is still worn with pride and bright colours by its people. As we've said in our 6 Tips, learning a little bit of Spanish will bring a smile to the locals' day. Pachacamac Ruins & Sacsayhuaman – Peru is bursting with ruins, so don't stop at Machu Picchu. Visiting other ruins such as Pachacamac in the outskirts of Lima, and the Fortress of Sacsahuaman in Cuzco will help to piece together what happened in Peru all those thousands of years ago. Coca for altitude – As Cuzco is sitting at high altitude, take it especially easy when you first arrive. Chewing coca leaves and sipping on coca tea, will help to prevent altitude sickness as well as headaches and thirst symptoms. Furthermore, stay at the enchanting Belmond Hotel Monasterio where your rooms can be fitted with oxygen systems.

PERU

SIGHTSEEING

ÂŠ Richard James Taylor

PISAC MARKETS

CUZCO CITY & NEARBY RUINS

BELMOND HIRAM BINGHAM TRAIN

If you are after some shopping or feel like mingling with the locals, a trip to Pisac markets is a great way to spend half a day. Bargain for some great mementos to take home such as handicrafts or colourful woven alpaca clothing. Admire the traditional outfits worn by the locals and watch them go about their daily lives in harmony.

This half day tour takes you to various historical points of interest in Cuzco including Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman, and passing through Kenko and Puca Pucara. As you see these Inca sites your helpful guide will explain the history and culture of these places along the way.

An unforgettable experience travelling on the distinguished Belmond Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu. Relax in the 1920's style plush carriages, enjoy exquisite Peruvian cuisine and live music as you journey to the world-famous landmark. A guided tour will bring the site to life.

FULL DAY MACHU PICCHU

CUZCO PISCO MAKING

SACRED VALLEY TOUR

Depart on the Vistadome train, through the mountains and valleys to reach the riverside town of Aguas Calientes. From here take a bus up a steep hillside to reach the hidden fortress of Machu Picchu. After a guided tour, enjoy free time to explore the ruins yourself before returning to Cuzco on the train.

This tour will teach you all you need to know about one of Peru's most unique creations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Pisco Sour! Learn about the different kinds of Pisco while you walk through the bohemian streets of Cusco and get ready to prepare your very own pisco sour drink.

Your full day trip to the Sacred Valley starts with a visit to Pisac, a town located just outside of Cuzco, famous for its colonial church and local markets. You will then visit Ollantaytambo, a cute little village with quaint cobblestone streets and home to the large Ollantaytambo Inca fortress that holds the Temple of the Sun.

PERU

SACRED VALLEY & MACHU PICCHU No trip to Peru is complete without visiting Sacred Valley and of course, Machu Picchu. The Sacred Valley remains key to the supply of fresh produce to Cuzco Machu Picchu, the most famed and spectacular creation of Inca architecture, is an awe-inspiring sight. Believed to have been built in the mid-15th century, it remained unknown and overgrown by jungle until an American historian Hiram Bingham discovered it in 1911.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Highlights worth seeing along the way

4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS

Meet the weavers – Textiles have always been present in ancestral communities such as Sacred Valley, it's a customary tradition passed from mothers to daughters. Watch the talented weavers at work while appreciating the art of ancient patterns and bright colours.

Day 1: Cuzco – Sacred Valley You will be picked up from your Cuzco Hotel, so be prepared for an early departure. Today is all about exploring the area between Cuzco and Sacred Valley. With a drive time of a couple hours, sit back and enjoy the peaceful ride, showing you the countryside of Peru. On arrival into the Sacred Valley you'll be met by the small town of Ollantaytambo, before being dropped off at your chosen hotel. Spend two nights enjoying the dramatic mountainscape. Day 2: Sacred Valley Sacred Valley has many activities on offer. Spend the day exploring this region which is extremely special to Peruvian people. The Ollantaytambo markets sits in a cute setting waiting for you to visit. Day 3: Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes The Vistadome or Hiram Bingham Train will be waiting at Ollantaytambo Station. Follow the Urubamba River, nestled amongst the mountains leading towards Aguas Calientes, the last stop before Machu Picchu. Here you'll disembark the train and board the bus to reach the Lost City of the Incas. A guided tour will give you insight to one of the most fascinating stories of history. You'll have spare time to roam, before returning to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay. Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cuzco You have the option (additional cost) to view Machu Picchu for a second time, before jumping on the train back to Sacred Valley, and onwards to Cuzco for an afternoon arrival at your chosen hotel.

Our favourite places to stay: • • • • •

Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay, Sacred Valley Hotel Pakaritampu, Sacred Valley Inkaterra El Mapi Hotel, Machu Picchu Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Machu Picchu Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu

Lares Trek

MACHU PICCHU Aguas Calientes Winaywayna Paqaymayu

Lucmabamba

Km 82. Inca Trail

Ollantaytambo

Pisac

Wayllabamba Cuzco

Soraypampa Salkantay Trek

Markets – You will know by now that South America is famed for its hundreds of alluring markets, and those surrounding the Sacred Valley have set the benchmark. The renowned Pisac markets, Chinchero markets and even the small markets in Ollantaytambo are always going to delight you with local handicrafts and treasures. Make sure you bring enough spending Sols as you won't be able to help yourself. Hot Springs, Aguas Calientes – Aguas Calientes has thrown itself on the map not only because of its proximity to Machu Picchu, but also its hot springs. After all, Aguas Calientes does mean hot water. Enjoy a soak after your tough trek or endless hours of walking and shopping. Huayna Picchu – Rising to an altitude of 2720 metres, the majestic Huayna (pronounced Wayna) Picchu (or young peak) is the jagged crag overlooking the 'Lost City of the Incas'. If the Inca Trail is too long but you're still looking for a challenge to remember, then target the summit of Huayna Picchu. The climb will take around one hour, but the views will be worth it. Admission to do this needs to be booked in advance. Trek from Kilometre 104 – Don’t want to hike the famous Inca Trail for four days but fancy a taster? You can do a day hike from a starting point known simply as Kilometre 104. Don’t be deceived, this is no walk in the park. Walking times vary between five-eight hours depending on your pace and time to stop at sights like Winay Wayna on the way. You’ll walk 10 kilometres at altitude, with some narrow and exposed sections. Well worth your efforts, arriving at the Sun Gate and setting sight on Machu Picchu is unforgettable.

PERU

THE INCA TRAIL By far the most famous trek in South America is the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. The 43 kilometre trail will see you encounter beautiful mountain scenery, lush cloudforest, a stunning mix of Inca paving stones and ruins before approaching the final and astonishing Machu Picchu. By trekking the Inca Trail, usually a four day camping trip with porters, it means you can also enter Machu Picchu in the early morning to watch the sun rise, and before the daily tourists arrive.

Inca Trail – Camping

Salkantay Trek – Camping

Lares Trek – Lodging

4 days/3 nights

5 days/4 nights

This is the original Inca Trail you have heard so much about. Join a small group and hike for four days before reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Guides will help with your gear wherever required.

The Salkantay Camping Trek is a fantastic alternative to the Inca Trail which can sell out months in advance. It is also known to be the most scenic route, therefore not quite as busy with trekking crowds.

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is an amazing cultural immersion, while staying in comfortable lodges along the way. Explore astounding scenery as you take part in many daily activities on offer.

Day 1: Cuzco – Wayllabamba Transfer from Cuzco through the Sacred Valley before arriving in Piskacucho, better known as Kilometre 82, where your trek will begin.

Day 1: Cuzco Depart Cuzco early to the trek starting point at Soraypampa. Enjoy your camp experience at a high altitude of 3500 metres.

Day 1: Cuzco – Pisac Early departure from Cuzco for a visit to the isolated community of Viacha. Later visit the archaeological complex of Pisac.

Day 2: Andenes – Lucmabamba Walk along the Salkantay River, appreciating pretty waterfalls and coffee plantations along the way.

Day 2: Lares Region Take a road journey into the Lares mountains and pass remote sites. Visit a traditional weaver’s village or take a hike to Huacahuasi.

Day 3: Paqaymayu – Winaywayna Visit the Runkurakay archaeological site before descending to Sayacmarka.

Day 3: Lucmabamba – Aguas Calientes A morning climb is paid off by an excellent view of the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

Day 3-4: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes Learn the Huacahuasi village daily life, then explore the Sacred Valley. Arrive in Aguas Calientes.

Day 4: Winaywayna – Cuzco Enjoy a majestic view of Machu Picchu and take a guided tour of the ruins. Return to Cuzco via Aguas Calientes by bus and train.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Cuzco Take a guided tour of Machu Picchu again before returning to Cuzco by train in the afternoon.

Day 5: Machu Picchu Take a guided tour of Machu Picchu before returning to Cuzco by train in the afternoon.

Departures: Set departures (Mar-Jan)

Departures: Set departures (Mar-Dec)

Inclusions: 3 nights camping, transport, guide, cook, porters, camping equipment (excludes sleeping bag), all meals during trek, entrance fees, bus & train tickets

Inclusions: 2 nights camping, 1 night hotel, transport, guide, cook, porters, camping equipment (excludes sleeping bag), all meals during trek, entrance fees, bus & train tickets

Inclusions: 4 nights lodge accommodation, transport, guide, cook, porters, all meals during trek, entrance fees, bus & train tickets

Price Guide From: $1980

Price Guide From: $1930

Day 2: Wayllabamba – Paqaymayu Today, trek to the highest point on the Inca Trail. Here you will notice the different micro climates between points.

Price Guide From: $2985

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date. Sleeping bags can be hired in Cuzco.

PERU

PERU AMAZON Considered as possibly the largest pharmacy in the world due to the large number of medicinal plants that grow here, the Peruvian Amazon region is one of the most diverse, with incredible amounts of varied wildlife. Iquitos is the starting point for cruises down the Amazon to reach protected areas of Peru, Brazil and Colombia. Tucked into southeastern Peru, Puerto Maldonado and Tambopata National Reserve offer some of the best wildlife viewing, sheltering dozens of endangered species.

Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica

Refugio Amazonas & Tambopata Research Centre 4 days/3 nights

Aria Amazon Cruise

4 days/3 nights Wake up to a symphony of birdsong, and end your days by falling asleep to the peaceful hum of the Amazon rainforest. Only a 50 minute boat ride from Puerto Maldonado is the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica.

Travel deep into the Tambopata National Reserve to the most remote lodge in the Amazon. With its location you encounter a true Amazon wilderness at the pristine heart of a 1.3 million-hectare conservation area.

Cruise the Amazon River from Iquitos onboard the Aria, an exceptional luxury small cruise ship. Only 32 guests get to enjoy the fine dining, expert guides and state of the art suites with floor to ceiling panoramic windows.

Day 1: Puerto Maldonado You will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to the boarding wharf to start your Amazon experience. Prepare for a three night stay in your Amazon cabana. Take a twilight river excursion and enjoy the rainforest at night.

Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Refugio Amazonas Transfer from Puerto Maldonado to Refugio Amazonas for an overnight stay. Take an optional night walk when the mammals are most active.

Day 1: Iquitos Board the Aria early evening and settle into your suite before making your way to dinner onboard.

Day 2: Refugio Amazonas – Tambopata Research Centre (TRC) Walk to a canopy tower for amazing views across the forest seeing flocks of macaws and parrots. Take a thrilling journey to TRC for two nights in the remote jungle with time for an afternoon trail walk.

Day 2: Wildlife & bird watching Cruising along two of the mighty Amazons largest tributaries the Ucayali and the Marañon Rivers, naturalist guides take you off to see some of the wildlife in smaller launches and on shore. The Amazon is home to thousands of species great and small. Night excursions show a million stars glistening in the night sky.

Day 2-3: The Peru Amazon Enjoy the many excursions on offer from visiting Sandoval Lake, Tambopata National Reserve, canopy walks and spectacular sunsets. A trip to Gamitana Creek will explain how local farmers raise fruit and vegetables. Make the most of the unique Amazon spa treatments from the on-site ENA Spa (additional cost).

Day 3: Tambopata Research Centre TRC is the perfect base to explore the wildlife of the Amazon, your guides are expert naturalists and researchers. They will help you try to spot rare and wonderful creatures.

4 days/3 nights

Day 3: Jungle Walk A jungle walk gets you up close and personal to the flora and fauna.

Day 4: Puerto Maldonado Take one last activity to absorb the Peru Amazon, before returning to Puerto Maldonado for your onward arrangements.

Day 4: Tambopata Research Centre – Puerto Maldonado Morning return to Puerto Maldonado.

Day 4: Iquitos Morning activity and transfer to airport.

Departures: Daily

Departures: Friday

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation, return transport from Puerto Maldonado Airport, all meals & scheduled daily activities

Inclusions: 3 nights onboard the Aria Amazon, all meals and scheduled sightseeing onboard, some drinks included & all transfers

Price Guide From: $1160

Price Guide From: $1775

Price Guide From: $5670

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

PERU

Nazca, Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Northern Peru Empire

Peru at a Glance

7 days/6 nights

4 days/3 nights

7 days/6 nights

Arequipa was independent Peru’s first capital with a rich colonial heritage and a stunning backdrop of El Misti volcano. The Nazca Lines are ever mysterious and the wingspan of Condors in Colca Canyon simply colossal.

Off the beaten track, Northern Peru is magical and worth considering if you have an eye for history. Chiclayo and Trujillo provide an insight into the real Peru and Chan Chan the largest pre-Columbian era city is fascinating.

This route takes in essential highlights. Starting in Lima, capital of Peru and onto Cuzco the former capital of the Inca Empire. Descend to the Sacred Valley and to Machu Picchu citadel set high on an Andean mountain ridge.

Day 1: Lima Arrive in Lima and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a half day city tour.

Day 1: Trujillo Arrive in Trujillo and transfer to your hotel. Get your first taste of the architectural richness of colonial Trujillo admiring the magnificent Plaza de Armas, considered one of the largest and most beautiful squares in the country. Stroll along calle Pizarro until you reach the House of the Emancipation, a Republican Neoclassical architectural treasure. The afternoon is free to enjoy Trujillo.

Day 1: Lima Arrive in Lima and transfer to your hotel. Take a Lima city tour, absorbing the ancient sights and museums of this bustling city. Lima is famous for its world-class restaurants, so make the most of it and enjoy a culinary tasting journey.

Day 2: Lima – Paracas Depart Lima for Paracas, a beautiful bay rich in marine life and ancient mysteries. Stop at Pachacamac Ruins along the way. Day 3: Nazca Lines Enjoy sunrise through the Islas Ballestas nature reserve that is packed with birds and sea lions. From the city of Pisco you will fly over the famous Nazca Lines. More than 20 figures occupy an area of approximately 500 square kilometres. Day 4: Paracas – Lima – Arequipa Return to Lima then fly to Arequipa (flight additional). Enjoy a city tour, also visiting Santa Catalina Monastery. Overnight in Arequipa. Day 5: Arequipa – Colca Drive through a land of snow-covered volcanoes, pampas and incredibly beautiful quaint villages, arriving in the Colca Valley. Overnight in Colca. Day 6: Colca Visit Condor Cross Lookout with its breathtaking landscape, considered to be the best spot to see the majestic Andean Condor. Return to Arequipa passing through quaint villages along the way. Day 7: Arequipa Transfer to Arequipa Airport where your arrangements end.

Day 2: Sun & Moon Pyramids, Chan Chan & Huanchaco Visit the Sun and Moon Pyramids, then move on to the workshop of a local artisan and see techniques used by ancient inhabitants to produce works of ceramics, leather and wood. Continue through northern Peru’s history as you visit Chan Chan, meaning Sun Sun. Drive to Trujillo’s best known seaside resort, Huanchaco. Historically, intrepid fishermen have braved the oceans waves in vessels made from totora reeds. Overnight in Trujillo. Day 3: Trujillo – Chiclayo Road transfer to Chiclayo, visiting the two large pyramids of Huaca el Brujo and Huaca Cao. Gaze at the Lady of Cao mummy, her skin completely covered in snake and spider tattoos. Day 4: Chiclayo A day of sightseeing including visits to the Cracked Pyramid Archeological Complex and the Royal Tombs Museum where The Lord of Sipan tomb rests. Your arrangements will end at either Chiclayo Town or Chiclayo Airport in the afternoon.

Day 2: Cuzco Transfer to Lima Airport and depart for your flight to Cuzco (flight additional). After you've checked into your hotel, the afternoon is free to wander the cobblestone streets of Cuzco, one of the most mystical cities in the world. Day 3: Sacred Valley Prepare to depart Cuzco on your full day excursion to the Sacred Valley. Sights include visiting the Indian market of Pisac, and meandering the historic Ollantaytambo fortress. After the tour, you will be dropped off at your accommodation in the Sacred Valley. Day 4: Machu Picchu Board the Vistadome train bound for Machu Picchu for your guided visit of the legendary Inca citadel before spending the night in the buzzing town of Aguas Calientes. Day 5: Cuzco Enjoy your morning in Aguas Calientes at leisure or explore Machu Picchu for a second time (additional cost), before catching the train back to Cuzco. Spend the evening in Cuzco and savour the uniquely Andean atmosphere. Day 6: Cuzco Take in the many wonderful sights of Cuzco on a half day city tour, exploring the local ruins including Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. Stay another night in Cuzco, and accomplish your souvenir shopping. Day 7: Cuzco After breakfast, transfer to Cuzco Airport.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, transport, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary & Nazca Lines Flight experience (flight from Lima to Arequipa additional)

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 1 lunch, transport, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary

Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 2 lunches, transport, Vistadome Train ticket, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary (flight from Lima to Cuzco additional)

Price Guide From: $3770

Price Guide From: $1115

Price Guide From: $1740

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

PERU Lima to La Paz

Peru at its Finest

11 days/10 nights

12 days/11 nights

See the best of Peru in this comprehensive itinerary that will guide you through to Bolivia. Begin in Peru’s capital of Lima before heading to the spellbinding city of Cuzco and nearby Sacred Valley. Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu is the next stop. Travel southbound to Puno, cruise Lake Titicaca and the Uros Islands before finishing in La Paz, Bolivia.

Peru’s cultural heritage and layers of history along with the most diverse geography, scenery and climate make it a five star destination. To scintillating and fascinating, add Belmond's luxurious hotels and one of the great train journeys on the continent and you truly have Peru at its finest.

Day 1: Lima Transfer to your hotel and enjoy an entertaining night in the exciting Peruvian capital of Lima.

Day 1: Lima On arrival into Lima, transfer to the Belmond Miraflores Park.

Day 2: Lima – Cuzco Transfer to Lima Airport for your flight to Cuzco. Arrival in Cuzco and settle in for a two night stay. Day 3: Cuzco A Cuzco city tour will take you around all the major sights, then also visit Koricancha ruins, Tambomachay ruins and nearby fortresses. The afternoon is free to appreciate what Cuzco has to offer. Day 4: Sacred Valley Enjoy a full day Sacred Valley tour visiting Pisac and the local markets, then Ollantaytambo fortress. Overnight in the Sacred Valley. Day 5: Machu Picchu Catch the PeruRail Vistadome, Panoramic Train to the hidden fortress of Machu Picchu. A guided tour of these sacred ruins will help bring this amazing history to life. Return to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay. Day 6: Machu Picchu – Cuzco A free morning to explore Aguas Calientes, or take the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu for a second time (second entrance fee additional) then return to Cuzco by PeruRail Vistadome train in the afternoon. Make the most of one last night in Cuzco. Day 7: Puno Drive from Cuzco to Puno on a full day bus journey, visiting ruins along the way. Arrive into Puno for a two night stay. Day 8: Uros & Taquile Islands Explore the Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca for a full day, and learn about the fascinating culture of the Lake Titicaca locals. Return to Puno. Day 9: Lake Titicaca Crossing Cross Lake Titicaca to Bolivia, visiting some interesting islands along the way. Enjoy the scenery on a road transfer and stay two nights in La Paz. Day 10-11: La Paz Enjoy a full day tour of Tiahuanaco Ruins and the Valley of the Moon, these are the ancient highlights of La Paz. Transfer to La Paz Airport in the afternoon for your onward arrangements.

Day 2: Cuzco Fly to Cuzco and transfer to the exceptional Belmond Hotel Monasterio for a two night stay. A restored 16th century monastery and important national monument is one of the most unique and luxurious hotels in South America. Day 3: Cuzco Explore Cuzco and nearby sites on a half day city tour before returning to your hotel a historical landmark in its own right. Day 4: Sacred Valley A full day exploring the Sacred Valley with another overnight to treasure checking into the Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado in a peaceful harmonious location beside the Urubamba River. Day 5: Machu Picchu Today the stage is set for the star of the show with a full day tour to Machu Picchu travelling on the PeruRail Vistadome train and staying the night at the only hotel next to the citadel, the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge. Day 6: Return to Cuzco After the highs of Machu Picchu (2430 metres) you ascend once more to Cuzco (3400 metres) for two further nights at the heady and sublime Belmond Hotel Monasterio. Day 7: Cuzco Enjoy the ambience of Cuzco and delve into some local shopping. Day 8-9: Cuzco – Arequipa This morning transfer to board the Belmond Andean Explorer a luxury sleeper train and home for the next two nights taking you via Lake Titicaca through spectacular scenery to the white city of Arequipa. Day 10: Arequipa Arrive in Arequipa and transfer to the Casa Andina for two nights. Day 11: Arequipa Another UNESCO World Heritage-site, today explore the colonial splendour of Arequipa at your leisure. Day 12: Arequipa Departure transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 10 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, transport, Vistadome Train ticket, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary (Domestic flights additional)

Inclusions: 9 nights luxury hotels, breakfast daily, 2 nights luxury train (full board), Vistadome train ticket, transfers, half day city tour in Cuzco, full day tour of the Sacred Valley, full day tour to Machu Picchu (Domestic flights additional)

Price Guide From: $3575

Price Guide From: $8485

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

PERU PERU & ECUADOR COVERED We have combined two of our favourite destinations to show a myriad of Latin highlights that will leave you with long lasting travel memories. The similarities and contrasts of Peru and Ecuador will tell a story of history and culture as you meander through the cities of Lima, Cuzco and Quito. Encounter the majestic Machu Picchu and the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.

VENEZUELA

PANAMA Peru and Ecuador Covered 16 days/15 nights Day 1: Lima Arrive in Lima. Enjoy an afternoon city tour.

COLOMBIA

Galapagos Islands

Otavalo

ECUADOR

Day 2: Cuzco Transfer to Lima airport for your flight to Cuzco (flight additional). Spend the afternoon wandering the cobblestone streets of Cuzco.

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cuzco Explore Machu Picchu again before returning to Cuzco.

QUITO Amazon River

PERU

Day 3: Sacred Valley Explore Sacred Valley for the day before spending the night here. Day 4: Machu Picchu A guided tour of Machu Picchu then overnight Aguas Calientes.

GUYANA

PACIFIC OCEAN

Day 6-7: Cuzco Spend two more nights roving Cuzco and enjoy a half day city tour. Day 8-9: Cuzco – Quito After breakfast, transfer to Cuzco Airport and fly to Quito (flight additional). Arrive in Quito to spend two nights exploring this delightful South American city. A Quito city tour will show you the highlights.

BRAZIL

LIMA Cuzco

Machu Picchu Lake Titicaca

BOLIVIA

PARAGUA

Day 10-13: Galapagos Islands Transfer to Quito Airport for your flight. Board your boat for a four night Galapagos cruise. Take time to appreciate this unique National Park and discover several islands and bays that are filled with wildlife. Each day will have an exciting activity and time to relax on the boat’s sundeck while you cruise. Meals will be freshly prepared by the chefs onboard. Day 14: Galapagos Islands – Quito Transfer to the airport and fly to Quito for a two night stay. Day 15: Otavalo Escape the bustling city to visit the little town of Otavalo a couple of hours drive away, home to the biggest markets in South America. Day 16: Quito Return to Quito Airport where your arrangements end. Departures: Daily specific to Galapagos Island cruises Inclusions: 11 nights hotel, breakfast daily, 4 night Galapagos cruise (all meals), return Galapagos flights, transport, Machu Picchu Vistadome Train ticket, sightseeing as mentioned Price Guide From: $6235

EXPERIENCE BOLIVIA

BRAZIL PERU

Madidi National Park Lake Titicaca

IFIC EAN

Rurrenabaque

BOLIVIA

LA PAZ Tiahuanaco Ruins Cochabamba Oruro

Santa Cruz

Sucre Potosi Uyuni Salt Flats

CHILE ARGENTINA 42

PARAGUAY

Landlocked and breath-takingly high, Bolivia is known as the most authentic of South

American countries. Its remote location perched in the Andes Mountains has helped to keep its ancient traditions alive. Even in La Paz, the world’s highest capital city at just under 3700 metres, local women continue to dress in traditional voluminous petticoats, vibrant cloaks and recognisable bowler hats. Meet many of these ladies in the lively street markets where you can pick up everything for a bargain, from an iPod or an alpaca jersey, to bits of dried llama in the Witchdoctor’s Market. Bolivia's natural landscapes and collection of wildlife is about as diverse as your imagination can stretch - not only home to the world's largest salt flats, but frantic piranha and river dolphins are part of the attraction in visiting all corners of Bolivia. Lake Titicaca is an almost mystical landmark. Titicaca is one of the world’s highest lakes, nestled under the dramatic Cordillera Real mountains and is the birthplace of the Children of the Sun, the Inca. Bolivia is a country so rich in culture and has changed very little over the centuries, its raw intensity will stand out as some of the most educational times of your South American journey.

BOL I V I A

Uyuni Salt Flats

Best of Bolivia

La Paz to Atacama Desert

3 days/2 nights

6 days/5 nights

4 days/3 nights

Be amazed by the sheer size of the extraordinary Uyuni Salt Flats in this short but sweet three day trip. This is a great way to experience the largest salt flat in the world if you are limited for time, and a great add on to your Peru arrangements.

Combine Uyuni’s famous salt flats and Isla Incahuasi with Potosi, once a major source of silver during colonial times. Also visit Sucre, with examples of Spanish colonial architecture in its cathedrals, churches and museums.

Travel from La Paz into Chile via the REA (Reserve Eduardo Abaroa), in the southern part of Uyuni Salt Flats. The reserve has a fragile ecosystem, geothermal activity and natural wonders like the Laguna Verde (green lagoon).

Day 1: La Paz – Uyuni Depart by bus from La Paz, heading southwest through the impressive highlands to Oruro, which is largely famous for its mining economy. Continue with a picturesque train journey to Uyuni.

Day 1: La Paz – Uyuni Enjoy a charming bus journey from La Paz to Oruro, then board the train to Uyuni.

Day 1: La Paz – Uyuni Travel from La Paz through the highlands to Oruro, then take a train journey to Uyuni.

Day 2: Uyuni Salt Flats Get your camera ready for a special day at the largest salt flats in the world. A little known fact is that Uyuni Salt Flats is located near the crest of the Andes. Stay overnight in a Salt Hotel, a sleepover you'll never forget.

Day 2: Uyuni Salt Flats Visit Colchani to see locals producing salt. Enter the great Uyuni Salt Flats to Isla Incahuasi, a special habitat where you will see giant cactus and volcanic rocks. Visit the pre-Columbian AyquePucara Fort before returning to Colchani for an exclusive overnight stay in a salt hotel.

Day 2: Uyuni Salt Flats Take a trip to Colchani to see locals producing salt and enter the huge white salt flat crossing to Isla Incahuasi, this is home to the amazing giant cactus. Travel north to the mummies of Coquesa, situated in the foothills of the Tunapa volcano, then return to the village of Colchani. If weather permits, enjoy the spectacular sunset. Experience a night in a unique Salt Hotel. Day 3: La Paz Explore some more in the morning before flying back to La Paz where your tour ends.

Day 3: Potosi Cross the Andes Range seeing great landscapes, old mines and Indian villages on your journey towards Potosi. Enjoy a Potosi city tour including visits to the Mint House, colonial churches and local markets. Day 4-5: Potosi – Sucre Visit the remains of a silver mine in the famous Silver Mountain. An afternoon bus trip will take you to Sucre. Take a tour of Sucre and an Indian Textile museum. Day 6: La Paz Fly to La Paz where your tour ends.

Departures: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, breakfast & lunch daily, 1 dinner, transport, flight Uyuni to La Paz, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary

Day 3: Villamar View spectacular scenery on the drive from Colchani to Villamar. Day 4: San Pedro de Atacama Depart early to the REA (Reserve Eduardo Abaroa), visiting Laguna Colorada (4278 metres). Continue to Laguna Verde, a beautiful green lagoon at the foothills of Licancabur Mountain. Cross the border to Chile and continue to San Pedro de Atacama where your tour ends.

Departures: Daily

Departures: Tuesday & Friday

Inclusions: 5 nights accommodation, breakfast daily & 3 lunches, transport, flight Sucre to La Paz, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 4 lunches, 2 dinners, transport, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary

Price Guide From: $1699

Price Guide From: $3099

Price Guide From: $1370

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EXPERIENCE ECUADOR

Ecuador was the first country in the world to include legally enforceable rights for nature in its

constitution. An ecological pledge in one of most biodiverse countries in the world. One of its greatest natural wonders the Galapagos Islands, is home to large number of endemic species, famously studied by Charles Darwin during his 19th century voyages and still delighting 21st century visitors. New species are being discovered in the Cloud forests no more than a couple of hours drive from Quito and then there’s the Amazon rainforest. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast you’ve come to the right place. If you are more interested in history and culture, wandering the beautiful old town of Quito, one of the first places to be listed by UNESCO, is a good start. Here you can delve into pre-Inca history, learn about the rise and fall of the Inca empire and the indelible influence of the Spanish who ruled for nearly three hundred years. The new republic of Ecuador emerged in 1830. Literally translated as Equator, the imaginary line runs through the middle of this spectacular Andean wonder. Nearby to Quito is the so-called Middle of the World, on a day tour you can find yourself standing in the southern and then northern hemisphere, and enjoying the novelty of jumping between the two! You’ll also learn about what makes the equator of the planet so unique, and the factors that contribute to the unique geography of this region of South America that rewards Ecuador with an abundance of natural riches. 44

Country name:

Republic of Ecuador

Population:

16.6 million

Capital:

Quito

Languages:

Spanish, Quichua plus 10 native languages

Currency:

US Dollar

Time zone:

17 hours behind New Zealand (except during daylight saving)

Electricity:

Current is 110V, 60HZ Plugs are a 2 point flat-pin like USA

EC UADOR

FAST FACTS

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO SEE AND DO Otavalo – Home to one of the most famous markets in South America, which almost takes over the entire small Andean town on a Saturday. The indigenous people from the area are well known for their arts and crafts, particularly colourful woollen textiles, and all sell their wares here. For tourists it’s a real eye opener, great for shopping obviously, and a great chance to interact with the people of the area.

Cotopaxi – Cotopaxi is one of the world’s highest volcanoes, in a country that has several, that are commonly referred to as ‘the avenue of the volcanoes’. Easily accessed from Quito on a day tour this giant rises to 5897 metres and a visit to Cotopaxi National Park offers a variety of flora and fauna as well as guided hikes and spectacular views.

Spanish School – Te gustaria aprender español? (Would you like to learn Spanish)? There are several Spanish schools, mainly in Quito, offering professional lessons and various lodging options. You can stay in shared apartments with other students or stay with a host family, which gives you the opportunity to learn informally outside of lessons and the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Cuenca – One of the finest cities in South America, known for its historic centre which is a UNESCO World Heritage-site. Compact streets of churches, museums and splendid colonial architecture. Cuenca is the third largest city in Ecuador and as well as history is famed for its cuisine, roast Guinea pig is a traditional favourite.

Ingapirca Ruins – About 65 kilometres from Cuenca are the Ingapirca ruins in an area settled by the Cañari people who resisted Inca rule for many years before peacefully coexisting. The Inca construction of a castle like complex includes the Temple of the Sun. Exactly positioned so that on solstices the sun would shine through a doorway into a chamber at the top of the temple as rituals and celebrations took place.

COLOMBIA

PACIFIC OCEAN

ECUADOR Galapagos Islands

Otavalo QUITO

Lago Agrio Coca

Cotopaxi National Park

Banos Guayaquil

Riobamba Sangay Macas

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve Napo River Yasuni National Park

National Park

Ingapirca Ruins

Cuenca

PERU 45

EC ENGL UADOR AN D 46

QUITO Quito sits in a spectacular setting, 2825 metres above sea level and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Strolling around the old city with its lovely churches and cobblestone streets, you’ll discover that Quito is one of the best preserved colonial cities in South America. Quito is a vibrant gateway to the rest of Ecuador and is no more than a day’s drive from the Amazon Jungle, active volcanoes, indigenous markets, and a short one hour flight to the Galapagos Islands.

Real Audencia

Vieja Cuba Hotel

La Casona de la Ronda

In the Old Town of Quito, you will find the Real Audencia. With traditional décor, and offering panoramic views of the Santo Domingo church, plus having museums and monasteries right on your doorstep, this is a great base to venture out to all Quito’s main city highlights. Dinner at the rooftop restaurant offers incredible views.

Cosy and elegant, Vieja Cuba offers a vibrant twist of Cuban ambience. Located in the tourist centre of Quito, close to restaurants, shops and not far from the Old Town, this simple and pleasant hotel will ensure you have an enjoyable and comfortable stay in the capital.

This heritage boutique hotel is located in one of the oldest Spanish Houses called ‘Las Corrales’, in the heart of Quito’s Old Town. With only 22 rooms, the hotel has been tastefully renovated to immerse you in the Ecuadorian culture. Perfectly situated in walking distance to the Plaza de Santo Domingo and close by, plenty of restaurants, cafés and bars.

Patio Andaluz Hotel

Swissotel

Rincón de Puembo - Quito Airport

The classic colonial style of Patio Andaluz Hotel will no doubt ensure you have a memorable stay. This boutique hotel is a favourite of ours with exceptionally friendly service situated in the heart of the Old Town; also handy to museums, attractions and shops. Enjoy impressive local cuisine on the main patio accompanied by a notable wine list.

The Swissotel is recognised for offering some of the finest service in Quito City. With four excellent restaurants and the Amrita Spa onsite, plus an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, this 5 star luxury hotel is fabulously located just outside the historic city centre. Luxury accommodation combined with European elegance makes for a perfect stay in Quito.

Located in a pleasant suburb, 15 minutes from Quito’s Mariscal Sucre Airport and 25 minutes from the city’s main squares and plazas. Rincón de Puembo is an oasis of calm surrounded by beautiful gardens, water fountains, art, peace and tranquillity. Built in the style of Quito’s old town streets it exudes the charm, traditions and character of the region with modern facilities.

QUITO CITY TOUR

MIDDLE OF THE WORLD

OTAVALO MARKETS

Visit Quito’s incredibly conserved historic centre, and the beautiful churches with amazing Latin baroque architecture. Compañia Church, is one of the most impressive churches of Latin America. Wander the stone-pathed streets of Quito and admire the sweeping city views from Panecillo Hill where the La Virgen statue stands.

Visit ‘La Mitad del Mundo’ (Middle of the World), which is Quito’s most famous attraction and where you can straddle the two hemispheres. Participate in several experiments at the Intiñan Museum, which explains the effect the Equator has on gravity and other natural forces.

Regarded as one of the best markets in Latin America. Incredible one-of-a-kind souvenirs and local trading at this indigenous market, makes it incredible not only to shop, but watch daily local life. Make a stop at Cotacachi, a local artisan town famous for its leather goods.

QUITO CULINARY TOUR

QUITO LEGENDS & CULTURE

QUILOTOA LAGOON TOUR

Unlock the taste of Quito on this culinary and gourmet walking tour of the city. Sample rich tamales and freshly made pastries. Meet renowned chefs and artisan bakers who will highlight the secrets behind some of Equador’s most popular dishes.

Learn the legends of Quito, get your hands dirty and your taste buds tingling! You’ll explore the city’s historic centre and hear the tales behind Quito’s oldest streets before getting a lesson in old-school woodcarving techniques, taught to you by local artisans. Finish with a visit to a local chocolate factory.

Three hours from Quito and hidden among the Andes Mountains is one of the most beautiful natural monuments in Ecuador, the lagoon of Quilotoa. Spectacular scenery, with local villages nearby, these small Andean towns are full with ancestral traditions still alive today. Enjoy the day full of colour and culture.

EC UADOR

SIGHTSEEING

EC UADOR

ECUADOR AMAZON An expedition to the Ecuador Amazon jungle will take you in a dugout canoe or boat through its imposing yet peaceful rivers; Napo, Pastaza, Coca or Tigre. Located near the Andes, this part of the Amazon basin hosts one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world. Many species are still unknown to researchers, and are quite possibly hidden deep in the dense tropical rainforest, right next to the trails you will be walking on!

Sacha Lodge

La Selva Eco Lodge & Spa

Manatee Amazon Explorer

4 days/3 nights

Sacha Lodge welcomes you to experience the various sounds of birds and howler monkeys that distinguish one of the few untouched places left on the planet.

La Selva is a wonderful luxury lodge surrounded by an abundance of wildlife. The on-site hammock hut is popular for afternoon siestas, or spend time at the resident Butterfly Farm.

Explore the Ecuadorian Amazon Basin onboard the M/V Manatee, a plush small river cruise ship with luxurious quarters and very well equipped for an Amazon adventure in style. Cruise in total comfort and encounter extraordinary wildlife.

Day 1: Quito Airport – Coca Fly from Quito to Coca and enjoy a tranquil two hour river canoe ride towards Sacha Lodge. Following a small rainforest walk, you will arrive at Sacha Lodge. The next three nights are spent enjoying its surroundings and spectacular wildlife.

Day 1: Quito Airport – Coca Take a quick 30 minute flight from Quito Airport to Coca and a two hour canoe ride down the river to arrive at La Selva Eco Lodge & Spa.

Day 1: Coca – Napo River Travel by motorised canoe from Coca to the M/V Manatee, where you’ll board and meet your naturalist guides. Set off down the Napo River before dinner and a nocturnal walk.

Day 2-3: The Ecuador Amazon Your first stop should be the observation tower, allowing you to see views over the beautiful rainforest which you are about to explore. Get close and personal to various animals on trail walks and hikes. With the help of a spotlight you'll enjoy a memorable canoe ride at night. Pay a visit to the nearest clay lick, one of the most fascinating and colourful displays of the local bird life.

Day 2: Panacocha Biological Corridor Head out for some wildlife viewing and to Panacocha lake which means “Piranha Lake” in the native Quechua language. Enjoy nature walks, kayaking and a delicious Amazon style BBQ.

Day 2-3: The Ecuador Amazon Sacha Lodge offers many different excursions that will get you into the secluded areas. Professional native guides point out the many different species and medicinal plants that have been used by their people for hundreds of years. Ensure you spend the night time listening for nocturnal animals!

Day 3: Parrot Clay Licks – Amazon Communities Visit a unique area that attracts hundreds of Parrots and many other colourful Amazon bird species before a Quechua Community visit.

Day 4: Coca – Quito Airport Enjoy one last morning in this captivating environment before returning to Coca for your return flight to Quito Airport.

Day 4: Coca – Quito Airport One last final activity, before returning to Coca for your flight to Quito Airport.

Departures: Daily (except Sunday)

Departures: Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat

Departures: Friday

Inclusions: 3 nights lodge accommodation, all meals, transport, return domestic flights from Quito to Coca, daily activities

Inclusions: 3 nights onboard the Manatee, all meals, transport, return domestic flights from Quito to Coca, daily activities

Price Guide From: $2630

Price Guide From: $2799

Price Guide From: $4380

Day 4: Return to Coca Transfer back to Coca by motorised canoe.

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EC UADOR

Andes & Amazon

Ecuador Highlands

Avenue of the Volcanoes

5 days/4 nights

7 days/6 nights

Experience the heart and soul of Ecuador. Visit the Amazon and its indigenous communities. Take some time to discover Baños which is popular for outdoor activities, and finally absorb the natural beauty of Cotopaxi National Park.

Explore Quito at 2850 metres - the second highest capital city and one of the most historical in the Americas, before experiencing indigenous culture in Otavalo and extraordinary biodiversity in the Mindo cloud forest.

Take a journey between Quito and Cuenca through the ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’. This itinerary gives you spectacular views of the Andes, finishing off with time spent in Cuenca, a well known and gorgeous colonial city.

Day 1: Quito Travel northwest to Papallacta, where you can soak in the hot spring water pools.

Day 1-2: Quito Quito’s centre is a UNESCO Cultural Heritage-site and there’s lot to explore. It’s understandably been a major centre in the Andes for thousands of years, being only 25 kilometres from the Equator, the Spanish word for which is Ecuador. With so much to do and see in the city, a great start is a half day city tour, and a visit to the Middle of the World.

Day 1: Quito – Lasso Travel from Quito to Lasso and discover the stunning Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the highest volcanoes in the world.

Day 2-3: Amazon Jungle Continue to the jungle, where you will arrive by canoe to spend an incredible two nights in your Amazon lodge. Enroute make a stop at Guango Lodge, a paradise for hummingbird lovers and photographers. Seeing up to 14 species of hummingbirds within an hour is not uncommon. While at the Amazon Lodge, your indigenous Quichua guides will explain about the incredibly diverse flora and fauna of the forest. Visit a village nearby to experience the local life, also a small orphanage and rehabilitation centre for wildlife in need. Day 4: Baños Transfer to Baños, a small mountain village. See how the local women make their intricate Balsa fabrics. Enjoy the afternoon to relax or join an optional excursion such as hiking, mountain biking or horse back riding. Day 5: Quito Visit the Salasaca Indian village. They are famous for their handmade weavings, which provides their main source of income. Stop at Cotopaxi National Park before arriving in Quito late afternoon where your tour arrangements end.

Day 3-4: Otavalo Depart to Otavalo a much smaller town, surrounded by enormous volcanoes and famed for it’s crafts market and the colourful wares of the traditionally clad towns people. The market is open every day but virtually takes over the town on a Saturday with a vast array of goods on offer. A great experience to watch the locals trade for their daily goods, plus of course a wee spot of shopping for yourself. Day 5-6: Mindo Cloud Forest Travelling into the cloud forest in the north of the country has an otherworldly quality. Moist air rises from the Pacific to be trapped by the high Andean hills creating the cloud forest. Biodiversity peaks in such a rare environment and in its flora and fauna new species are regularly being discovered. Mindo is only a two and a half hours drive from Quito yet a world away and so worth a visit and some time to explore. Day 7: Return to Quito Transfer back to Quito.

Day 2: Lasso – Baños Depart for a picturesque three hour journey to Baños with an option to see Quilotoa Crater Lake and the indigenous artisan village of Tigua. Day 3: Baños A free day to explore the wonderful surroundings such as the Pailon del Diablo Waterfalls, or maybe take a hiking, biking or rafting excursion. Day 4: Baños – Riobamba Spend the morning at Salasaca Village and Chimborazo before arriving in Riobamba. Day 5: Riobamba – Cuenca Take a train ride down the “Devil’s Nose” from Riobamba to Alausi. Visit Ingapirca, the most important Inca ruins in Ecuador, before driving to the beautiful city of Cuenca. Day 6: Cuenca Enjoy a half day walking tour to learn about Cuenca. This attractive colonial city is full of museums, convents and markets. Day 7: Cuenca – Quito Transfer to the airport for your flight to Quito where your tour arrangements end.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 4 nights accommodation, all meals, transport, sightseeing with a local professional guide

Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 2 dinners, transport, sightseeing with a local professional guide

Price Guide From: $2330

Price Guide From: $2380

Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 2 dinners, transport, sightseeing with a local professional guide, domestic flight Cuenca to Quito (airport tax not included) Price Guide From: $2460

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EC UADOR

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS Lying 1000 kilometres west of Ecuador and covering 50,000 square kilometres of the Pacific Ocean is the Galapagos Islands. Comprised of 19 islands, unique wildlife is the big draw card here. Granted as a National Park in 1959, the archipelago is now protected with all visitors being accompanied by certified naturalist tour guides. Enjoy this incredible piece of nature either cruising the islands by boat, or staying in a hotel.

Cucuve Suites

Angermeyer Waterfront Inn, Santa Cruz Island

Located in the heart of Puerto Ayora, and only a short 10 minute stroll to the beach, Cucuve Suites is a great hotel option in the Galapagos Islands. With friendly helpful staff, and comfortable rooms, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a perfect choice with plenty of restaurants and cafĂŠs all in walking distance.

Nestled in Punta Estrada, Angermeyer Waterfront Inn ensures you feel close to nature, using lava rocks and driftwood in its design. Tucked away from the little town of Puerto Ayora but still accessible by water taxi, your stay at this gorgeous Inn will be totally quiet and undisturbed.

Departures: Santa Cruz Island / Daily

Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, all meals, return flights from Quito or Guayaquil to Galapagos, airport transfers, full day Galapagos Islands cruise

Price Guide From: $2780

Price Guide From: $2985

PACIFIC OCEAN

Genovesa Is. Marchena Is.

EQUATOR

Santiago Is. Bartolome Is. North Seymour Is. Fernandina Is. Baltra Is. Rabida Is. Santa Cruz Is. CHARLES DARWIN Pinzon Is. STATION 2 1 Isabela Is. Santa Fe Is. Lobos Is.

Floreana Is.

San Cristobal Is.

Espanola Is.

EC UADOR

Archipell II

Galapagos Legend

Tourist Superior Catamaran

Boutique Expedition Cruise Ship

Capacity: 16 passengers / 11 crew Length: 26 metres Speed: 10 knots

Capacity: 100 passengers / 60 crew Length: 92 metres Speed: 17 knots

Inclusions: Twin cabin, all meals, activities, return flights from Quito Price Guide From: 4 day itinerary $3540 (Departs Mon) 5 day itinerary $4590 (Departs Thu) 8 day itinerary $6790 (Departs Mon)

Inclusions: Twin cabin, all meals, activities, return flights from Quito Price Guide From: 4 day itinerary $3930 (Departs Mon) 5 day itinerary $4920 (Departs Thu) 8 day itinerary $7270 (Departs Mon & Thu)

Solaris

Treasure of Galapagos

First Class Motor Yacht

First Class Catamaran

Capacity: 16 passengers / 8 crew Length: 36 metres Speed: 10 knots

Capacity: 16 passengers / 11 crew Length: 32 metres Speed: 12 knots

Inclusions: Twin cabin, all meals, activities, return flights from Quito Price Guide From: 4 day itinerary $4315 (Departs Tue) 5 day itinerary $5585 (Departs Fri) 8 day itinerary $8480 (Departs Tue)

Inclusions: Twin cabin, all meals, activities, return flights from Quito Price Guide From: 5 day itinerary $5580 (Departs Sat) 7 day itinerary $7635 (Departs Tue) 9 day itinerary $10,160 (Departs Fri)

Galapagos Odyssey

Endemic

First Superior Class Motor Yacht

Luxury Catamaran

Capacity: 20 passengers / 11 crew Length: 41 metres Speed: 12 knots

Capacity: 16 passengers / 11 crew Length: 35 metres Speed: 12 knots

Inclusions: Twin cabin, all meals, activities, return flights from Quito Price Guide From: 5 day itinerary $5580 (Departs Sun) 6 day itinerary $6650 (Departs Tue) 10 day itinerary $11,220 (Departs Tue & Sun)

Inclusions: Twin cabin, all meals, activities, return flights from Quito Price Guide From: 4 day itinerary $6940 (Departs Thu) 5 day itinerary $8690 (Departs Sun) 8 day itinerary $13,320 (Departs Sun)

EXPERIENCE COLOMBIA

Cartagena

Colombia takes its name from Christopher Columbus who led explorations in the region

Tayrona National Park

PANAMA VENEZUELA Nuqui Pereira Isla Gorgona

GUYANA

BOGOTĂ Cali

COLOMBIA

The region is full of natural beauty including the Coffee Triangle in the heart of the country, an attractive landscape combined with the perfect climate for high quality coffee production.

BRAZIL PERU

The country has such a rich history. Amerindian Civilisations going back thousands of years have left behind some of the most fascinating archaeological sites. The colonial era left an impressive legacy of architectural heritage best seen in the capital Bogota, and the colourful UNESCO World Heritage old town of Cartagena, which has the most extensive fortifications in South America. Close by are some stunning Caribbean beaches.

Medellin

ECUADOR

but never set foot on Colombian soil. On his second voyage in 1499 one of his companions, Alonso de Ojeda, was the first European to explore the interior. He reported back on the amazing wealth of the local Indians, their gold and their jewels. This gave rise to the search for the mythical El Dorado and thereafter rapid colonisation.

After many years of unrest and bad press, Colombia is now safe to visit and rather untouched by the traveller's foot. It offers abundant history, natural beauty, superb beaches and islands. Head to Colombia now before the world starts to realise what they have been missing.

C OLOM BI A

Classic Colombia

Cartagena and the Caribbean Coast

8 days/7 nights

6 days/5 nights

Encounter the delights of Colombia visiting the historical centre of its capital Bogotá teeming with art and artefacts, and the timeless gems found in Villa de Leyva and the walled old city of Cartagena. A journey through pre-Columbian history, the tribes and conquistadors, the colonial era to independence, to a thriving nation of natural and historical wonders.

Discover beautiful Cartagena which lies on Colombia’s northern coast. Being a major port of the Spanish overseas empire founded in 1533, it has a legacy of outstanding colonial architecture. After a couple of days exploring the historic streets and marvelling at the monuments head to the Caribbean Coast for few days of sun and relaxation.

Day 1-2: Bogotá Arrive at El Dorado airport and transfer to your hotel. A half day tour of La Candelaria, the historic centre has four centuries of cultural heritage. See some of the 32,000 pieces in the Gold museum before heading up to Monserrate, a sacred mountain over 3000 metres high in the centre of Bogotá.

Day 1: Cartagena Arrive and transfer to your hotel. A major port since 1533, Cartagena’s old walled city and fortress are a UNESCO World Heritage-site. Take a half-day city tour which starts with a panoramic view from the famous Iglesia de la Popa church and monastery constructed in 1606.

Day 3-4: Bogotá – Villa de Leyva Visit the incredible Salt Cathedral, carved into saline rock near Zipaquirá. Travel onto Villa de Leyva, a beautiful colonial town founded in 1572. Enjoy Villa de Leyva with its quaint cobble stone streets and many museums. Five kilometres out of town visit the Fossil Museum, built where the skeleton of a 10 metre long Kronosaurus was found in 1977. Finally visit El Infiernito stone monoliths erected by the indigenous Muisca people 2200 years ago. Day 5: Villa de Leyva – Bogotá – Cartagena Transfer back to El Dorado airport for your flight to Cartagena. Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Day 6-7: Cartagena Enjoy a panoramic tour of this beautiful city and explore the alleyways and tunnels in the fortress and castle. Visit the Bovedas handicrafts area. The old city has lots to explore on a free day.

Day 2: Cartagena Free day to look around inside the city walls, which were built to repel Pirate attacks and contain hundreds of years’ worth of colonial artefacts. Day 3-5: Isla Grande Transfer to a beautiful island in the Caribbean Sea. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cartagena for a short drive to the launch, and then it’s a one hour speed boat trip to the hotel located within the Corales del Rosario Natural Park. Settle in for three blissful nights, with evenings spent dining on fresh seafood and listening to the waves lapping up on the shore. By day the dreamy turquoise waters invite you to snorkel, kayak, swim or just gaze and relax. Day 6: Cartagena Transfer back to Cartagena and to the airport for your onward arrangements.

Day 8: Cartagena After breakfast transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, airport transfers, city tours & sightseeing mentioned (Domestic flights additional)

Inclusions: 5 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, transport Cartagena-Isla Grande, airport transfers, half day city tour & National park fee

Price Guide From: $2235

Price Guide From: $1130

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EXPERIENCE MEXICO

Mexicans like their food fiery, while their pace of life is anything but. Time for family and

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

friends, a party or a siesta – these moments are all vitally important to the people of the world’s largest Spanish speaking country. Admire the experts grind and spice as they make a fresh batch of guacamole right in front of you. Mexico sets the scene for either a laid-back holiday in the sun, an adventure-filled journey, or both!

Chihuahua Los Mochis

MEXICO

Cabo San Lucas Puerto MEXICO CITY Vallarta Guadalajara Taxco Acapulco Oaxaca

GULF OF MEXICO Cancún Mérida Playa del Chichén Itzá Tulum Carmen Palenque San Cristobal

GUATEMALA

PACIFIC OCEAN 54

CARRIBEAN SEA

BELIZE

Mexico hosts a wide variety of landscapes from barren deserts to volcanoes and crisp rainforests. Combine a tumultuous history from the times of the Mayans and the Aztecs through to Spanish conquistadors and an enormous population speaking over 60 different languages, this destination provides endless variety. Mix in a tasty margarita, a mariachi band playing in an elegant plaza, or walk with the unique and colourful Day of the Dead celebrations and you’ll certainly experience the Mexican spirit. But you don't just stop at the prominent marvels of Mexico City or Playa del Carmen and Chichén Itzá, because flourishing cities such as Oaxaca, Palenque and, our personal favourite of Taxco, will together deliver a proper insight into the real traditions of Mexico.

Vibrant, vivacious, immense and intoxicating, that is Mexico City. Spanning out from the Zocalo, the largest public square in the world, is a city that seems to never end and is home to over 21 million people. Founded by the Mexica people it was the centre of the Aztec empire, but these days, a progressive modern city. Amongst centuries of history are hectic street markets, street performers, manicured parks and plenty of food stalls where chillies are added to everything.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Highlights worth seeing along the way

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS

Mexican flavours – It’s not all about nachos and burritos! You’ll find a whole new world of Mexican food in the local markets, street stalls and on a variety of foodie tours. And then there’s the churros, oh dearest churros, so simple yet sooo satisfying.

Day 1: Mexico City Bienvinedo! Welcome to one of the busiest cities in the world: brace yourself for a cultural bonanza. Founded in 1325, Mexico City is the oldest capital city of the Americas, and renowned worldwide for its warming hospitality. The locals, commonly called “chilangos”, are always ready to welcome you with the biggest and kindest smile. Day 2: Mexico City Get your bearings with a half day Mexico City tour that will take you around all the main attractions, monuments and neighbourhoods. With over 186 museums in the wider city, you will be busy. Visit Chapultepec park - it’s twice the size of New York’s Central Park! Day 3: Mexico City Visit the Shrine of Guadalupe and Teotihuacan ruins and discover architectural treasures in the UNESCO-listed zone of Teotihuacan, also known as the City of the Gods. Finish the day with a visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a sanctuary built to celebrate the Virgin Mary’s apparition in Guadalupe’s hillside. Day 4: Cuernavaca & Taxco See a quieter side of Mexico and head to Cuernavaca, a popular weekend retreat for locals. Then on to Taxco, dubbed the 'silver city' for its metal production. The city itself tumbles across the hillside, with winding cobblestone streets, tile roofed buildings, cozy squares and a strong old-world ambiance that has survived for hundreds of years. Day 5: Mexico City Transfer back to the Airport for your onward arrangements.

M EX I C O

MEXICO CITY

Frida Kahlo Museum – The world renowned monobrow female artist hails from Mexico City, and eventually died in the same house she was born. This dwelling is one of the 186 museums, filled with Frida’s life collections and art by Frida herself. Chapultepec Park – Being twice the size of Central Park, this park has long been considered the lungs of Mexico City, as the trees replenish oxygen to the city. It is a great escape for those wanting to get away from the hustle of the city. Boat rides on lakes, museums, and a zoo inside the park ensures a full day of fun activity. Floating Gardens of Xochimilco – The World Heritage-site of Xochimilco is an extensive lake and canal system, and an incredible example of the area's pre-Hispanic past. Board a colourful gondola-esque boat, called a trajinera, and explore the waterways and artificial islands of chinampas. These floating gardens were built by the Aztecs to improve agriculture. Mercado Roma - This three-story mixed-use market is perfect for sipping Spanish wines and eating tapas, shopping for expensive cheeses, and nibbling snacks from the various ‘puestos’. Browse the stalls to see what grabs your appetite then head upstairs for beers on the breezy patio. Beetle Tour of Mexico City – VW Beetles are truly an icon of Mexico City. They were first introduced in the 1950’s from Germany and were manufactured in Mexico until the early 2000’s. Enjoy a city tour in a vintage VW Beetle for a unique journey through Mexican traditions and history.

Our favourite places to stay: • • • •

Hotel Metropol Central Zocalo Hotel Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Hotel Presidente Intercontinental

M EX I C O Yucatan Beach Break

Colonial Charm

Mexico Classic

7 days/6 nights

9 days/8 nights

After your dose of history and culture in other parts of Mexico, take this week long itinerary to relax next to the glistening Caribbean waters of Cancún and Playa Del Carmen. Just one day is committed to visiting Chichén Itzá, a must-see!

This nine day tour sums up Mexico’s extremes as you explore the countryside. Witness the differences of local life in each town and immerse yourself in the history of Mexico, as well as viewing today’s traditions.

Experience the lure of Mexico when visiting the historic parts before finishing in the azure blue waters of the Riviera Maya. This nine day tour is sure to leave you wanting to experience more of what Mexico has to offer.

Day 1: Cancún Arrive in Cancún and transfer to your hotel. Take the opportunity to experience Cancún at night.

Day 1: Mexico City Arrive and transfer to your hotel.

Day 1-2: Mexico City Arrive in Mexico City and transfer to your hotel. Take a tour of Mexico City, admiring the major and famous attractions.

Day 2: Cancún A free day to explore Cancún. Day 3: Cancún – Playa Del Carmen Check-out of Cancún and transfer to your hotel in Playa Del Carmen, just a quick hour's drive down the Caribbean coast. The rest of the day is free. Day 4: Playa Del Carmen Enjoy a free day to explore Playa Del Carmen and all the activities that are on offer, or simply relax at the beach. Day 5: Chichén Itzá Take a full day tour to explore this famous UNESCO World Heritage-site, the most important archaeological zone and ancient capital of the Mayan Empire. Admire the majestic observatory, the sacred cenote, the ball court and castle. Sample typical Mayan cuisine at lunch. Chichén Itzá is a must-see while on your Mexico encounter and the informative guides on this tour will help you understand why. You also get free time to explore the ruins on your own to feel its mystery and magic. Return to Playa Del Carmen in the evening. Day 6: Playa Del Carmen A free day to explore Playa Del Carmen. Day 7: Cancún You will be transferred from your Playa Del Carmen Hotel to Cancún Airport in time for your departing flight.

Day 2: Queretaro – San Miguel de Allende Travel to Queretaro, an important city during the Independence Wars. On arrival in San Migues de Allende, view the beautiful mansions and Gothic style cathedral that this town is famous for. Day 3: Guanajuato Guanajuato is rich with history, narrow colonial roads and underground streets which were formally river beds. Visit Callejón del Beso and enjoy a panoramic view from El Pipila monument. Day 4: San Luis Potosí – Zacatecas The economy of Luis Potosí is based on mineral extraction during the New Spain era. Witness baroque architecture before going to Zacatecas. Day 5-6: Guadalajara The Zacatecas Cathedral is a gem of Mexican baroque architecture, built of rose stone during the 17th century. Drive to Guadalajara, the “Pearl of the Occident”. Glassblowing, arts, crafts and the ‘Tequila’ region is what makes Guadalajara a must stop for all travellers to Mexico. Day 7: Patzcuaro Patzcuaro is known for its murals painted by Juan O’Gorman and is well worth visiting. Day 8: Morelia – Mexico City Your visit to Morelia lets you visit some interesting and historical monuments from Mexico’s ancient times, before heading back to Mexico City.

Day 3: San Cristóbal Transfer to the airport and fly to Tuxtla Gutiérrez (flight included). Enjoy a boat trip through the beautiful Sumidero Canyon before moving onward to San Cristóbal. Day 4-5: San Cristóbal – Palenque Visit a typical local market where indigenous people sell hand-made products. Meet the communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán. En route to Palenque, stop at the Agua Azul Waterfalls. Day 6: Palenque – Campeche Visit the Palenque Archaeological site, recognised as one of Mexico’s most beautiful places due to the ruins being in the Chiapanecan Jungle. Drive to the colonial Campeche for an overnight stay. Day 7: Campeche – Uxmal – Mérida Continue onto Mérida stopping en route at the Mayan ruins in Uxmal, a typical example of merging the classic and post-classic Mayan period. Overnight in stylish Mérida. Day 8: Chichén Itzá – Riviera Maya Depart for the amazing Chichén Itzá ruins, the former Mayan capital of Yucatán. Drive to Riviera Maya for an overnight stay. Day 9: Cancún Transfer to Cancún where your tour ends, or extend for a few nights at the beach.

Day 9: Mexico City Arrangements end after your transfer to Mexico City Airport. Departures: Daily

Departures: Set departures

Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, all meals while in Playa Del Carmen, return airport transfers, transfer between hotels, full day Chichén Itzá tour including guide & lunch

Inclusions: 8 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, transport, sightseeing mentioned, local guide

Inclusions: 8 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 2 dinners, transport, flight Mexico City to Tuxtla Gutierrez, sightseeing mentioned, local guide

Price Guide From: $1385

Price Guide From: $1575

Price Guide From: $3065

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

M EX I C O

Real Food Adventure – Mexico

Mexico & Cuba Highlights

Mayan Adventure

9 days/8 nights

23 days/22 nights

22 days/21 nights

Get a taste of Mexico on this journey through some of the country’s most famous culinary spots including Oaxaca’s aromatic markets and Puebla’s local specialties. This tour is perfect for your authentic Mexican foodie experience.

This comprehensive tour discovers the delights of Mexico City, Teotihuacan, Oaxaca and San Cristóbal before stopping at Yucatan Peninsula. Onward to Cuba for a unique insight into Havana, Viñales, Trinidad and Santa Clara.

Explore the Mayan sites and colourful local markets, relax on Mayan Riviera beaches, go caving, or snorkel on Belize’s worldfamous barrier reef. Experience a journey that introduces you to local culture and history.

Day 1-2: Mexico City Enjoy a walking tour of Mexico City’s Centro Historico and marvel at the impressive Zocalo, Latin America’s largest city square. Along the way, visit Mercado San Juan, Mexico City’s main food market.

Day 1-2: Mexico City Arrive in Mexico City and transfer to your hotel. Get to know Mexico City.

Day 1: Playa del Carmen Arrive in Playa del Carmen and check into your hotel.

Day 3: Teotihuacan – Mexico City

Day 2-3: Chichén Itzá – Mérida Guided tour of Chichén Itzá ruins and orientation walk around Mérida.

Day 3: Puebla Venture out on a culinary city tour – start with some Pueblan street food before making a beeline for Calle de los Dulces (Sweet Street) to sample tortitas de Santa Clara (shortbread biscuits) and camotes (sweet potato lollies). Day 4-6: Oaxaca Chocoholics won’t want to miss a trip down to the shops on Calle Mina for a taste of real Oaxaca chocolate – it’s no wonder it is seen as the food of the gods! Visit some of Oaxaca’s renowned markets to taste distinct regional specialties – from cactus fruit and grasshoppers to the heavenly queso Oaxaca (Oaxacan cheese). Learn the secrets behind some of the dishes in a cooking class. Day 7-8: Huatulco Considered one of the most beautiful stretches of beach on Mexico’s Pacific coast, this is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Head out on a fishing expedition, and enjoy a last cooking class to refine your Mexican culinary delights. Day 9: Huatulco Finish your tour after breakfast.

Day 4-5: Oaxaca Known for its colourful markets, Oaxaca is the place to purchase traditional Mexican handicrafts. Day 6-7: San Cristóbal de Las Casas Day 8-9: Palenque Day 10: Campeche Day 11-12: Mérida Day 13: Chichén Itzá – Playa Del Carmen Chichén Itzá is arguably the most famous Mayan site in Mexico and is a must-see for all visitors. Day 14: Tulum – Playa Del Carmen Day 15-16: Havana Fly from Cancún to Havana (flight additional). Day 17-18: Soroa – Viñales Day 19: Viñales – Cienfuegos Day 20-21: Trinidad UNESCO declared Trindad and its surrounding hills a World Heritage-site in 1988. Day 22: Trinidad – Santa Clara – Havana

Day 4-5: Palenque Guided tour of the Palenque Mayan ruins. Day 6-7: San Cristóbal de las Casas Visit the Agua Azul waterfalls. Orientation walk around San Cristóbal de las Casas. Day 8-9: Panajachel Cross the border to Guatemala. Boat around Lake Atitlán to local indigenous villages. Day 10-11: Antigua Orientation walk around Antigua. Day 12: Rio Dulce Day 13-14: Tikal/Flores A guided tour of the famous Mayan ruins, Tikal. Spend time in charming Flores. Day 15-16: San Ignacio Cross the border to Belize, visiting ancient Mayan caves and other ruins. Explore San Ignacio. Day 17-19: San Ignacio – Caye Caulker Travel to Belize City then catch a ferry to Caye Caulker. Spend a few days enjoying the island paradise.

Day 23: Havana Your tour finishes in Havana after breakfast.

Day 20-21: Playa del Carmen

Departures: Set departures

Inclusions: 8 nights accommodation, 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners, local tour leader, sightseeing & transport

Inclusions: 18 nights hotel accommodation, 2 nights premium guesthouse, 2 nights guesthouse, breakfast daily, 4 lunches, 2 dinners, local tour leader & local guides at some sites, sightseeing as per detailed itinerary

Inclusions: 17 nights hotel accommodation, 3 nights jungle lodge, 1 night homestay, 2 dinners, transport, guide, some sightseeing & entrance fees

Price Guide From: $1985

Day 22: Playa del Carmen Depart at any time.

Price Guide From: $3379

Price Guide From: $9635 The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

EXPERIENCE CUBA

Cuba might be one of the last outposts of communism, but the tropical Caribbean heat

together with the Cuban personality have blended together to create a unique, lustrous brew. Once controlled by Spain, its influence still lingers amongst the magnificent Baroque buildings and music. Tobacco and sugarcane plantations create lush vistas, flamingos inhabit offshore islands, luxury resorts grace white sand beaches. And everywhere, there is music – salsa, jazz, song and rumba. So dance the night away with the help of a Cuban cocktail!

GULF OF MEXICO Varadero HAVANA Santa Clara Vinales Cienfuegos Trinidad

CUBA Santiago de Cuba

CARIBBEAN SEA

E 58

JAMAICA

Our favourite Cuban spot is the town-on-the-beach with music-on-the-streets Trinidad. Wealth from a sugar-boom era can be seen in the town’s ornamental church towers, wrought iron grills and run-down marble mansions. Visit the Taller Alfarero, a large ceramics workshop where traditional techniques are still used and art-filled streets commemorate this local talent. An eccentric side to its traditions are the enchanting vintage cars, which is everyday life in Cuba. Cuban life spills from the home to the streets – locals chat, drink coffee, play music and dance. Get amongst the vibe while you can, as there isn't another country quite like this in the world.

To visit Havana is like stepping back in time. This vivacious city is entangled in an era where 1960’s Cadillacs still cruise the streets, cigar smoke wafts in the air and the dancing girls still strut their stuff in the Tropicana cabaret. Havana is steeped in nostalgia, with the ghosts of Che Guevera and Ernest Hemingway ever present. Havana combines history with a vibrancy that few other capital cities can match. Join the locals at sunset on the Malecon or watch them rumba in the streets.

A Taste of Havana Packages to get you started...

Hotel Florida

Madero

Includes:

Centrally located on the main shopping street in Old Havana, this small boutique hotel oozes with an old bohemian feel and Cuban Culture. With only 25 rooms, it is in easy walking distance to local markets, art galleries and restaurants. With warm friendly service, you will be right in the heart of it all.

This family owned boutique hotel offers Cuban hospitality at its very best. Found in the heart of Old Havana, a two minute walk from the Bay of Havana and a short stroll to the Plaza San Francisco. Beautifully decorated the hotel has six spacious rooms across three floors. The rooftop terrace is a great place to relax and enjoy the sunset over Havana.

Price Guide From: $1060

Price Guide From: $1135

Parque Central Hotel

Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski

This elegant, Spanish colonial style hotel stands in the heart of Old Havana, facing Central Park and within walking distance to Plaza de la Catedral, the Capitolio building, Gran Teatro de La Habana and Havana Harbour. Enjoy fabulous views of Havana City from the pool on the top floor, which is also a lovely spot for lunch and refreshments.

In the heart of Old Havana the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski is next level - the most luxurious hotel in Cuba. No expense has been spared renovating the 1917 building that now houses over 240 rooms, a variety of restaurants and bars, a spa and a spectacular rooftop terrace and swimming pool.

Price Guide From: $1395

Price Guide From: $2099

• Four nights accommodation • Breakfast daily • Return airport transfers • Half day Havana City Tour • Cigar Factory Visit • Full day Viñales Valley Tour

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

C UBA

HAVANA

C UBA La Bella Cuba

Surprisingly Cuba

8 days/7 nights

16 days/15 nights

Spend a whole week exploring the west of Cuba. Touch upon the rich history in Old Havana and Trinidad, meet friendly locals, learn to salsa dance, and enjoy an enchanting tour of Cienfuegos. Learn about the revolution with a visit to Che Guevara’s Memorial in the beautiful Santa Clara, before taking in the stunning scenery in Viñales Valley.

With a bit more time on your hands journey to some of the most important cities in Cuba and immerse yourself in the friendliness of the Cuban people. Their enchanting music and culture is totally infectious.

Day 1-2: Havana Arrive in Havana and transfer to your hotel. The next day enjoy a walking tour around Old Havana’s historical centre, before and afternoon salsa lesson. In the evening dine while enjoying some Buena Vista Social Club style live music!

Day 1-2: Havana Arrive in Havana and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a guided Colonial Walking tour of Historical Old Havana.

Day 3-4: Las Terrazas Morning tour and lunch in central Havana, ride past the Capitol Building, Revolution Square, University of Havana and the Revolution Museum. Transfer to the ecovillage of Las Terrazas, the surrounding area declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Take a tour to the breathtaking Viñales Valley (including a cigar factory visit), Cuba’s main tobacco growing region - tropical countryside, small fertile valleys and dramatic limestone flat-topped mountains. Day 5-6: Trinidad Transfer by bus to tour Santa Clara a city at the heart of the Cuban revolution and home to the Ernesto “Che” Guevara Mausoleum. Continue on to Trinidad one of our favourite spots in Cuba for an unforgettable evening of music and dance with a local guide. Spend the next day learning about the history of Trinidad and Sugar Mill Valley, where the wealth from the sugar-boom era can be seen in the town’s ornamental church towers and run-down marble mansions. Day 7: Trinidad – Cienfuegos – Havana Drive to Cienfuegos, known as ‘The Pearl of the Caribbean’ for a city tour, a UNESCO World Heritage town teeming with 19th century Spanish architecture, before heading back to Cuba’s intoxicating capital Havana in the afternoon. Day 8: Havana After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward arrangements.

Day 3-4: Havana – Viñales Enjoy the quaint country town of Viñales, where you can sample a local cocktail from one of the many local bars. Enjoy a half day hike through Viñales Valley. Day 5: Havana Return to Havana. Day 6: Havana – Baracoa Fly to Baracoa (flight included) and enjoy a walking tour of Baracoa and Casa de la Trova in the evening. Day 7: Baracoa Day 8-9: Baracoa – Santiago de Cuba Transfer to Santiago de Cuba and enjoy a guided walking tour. Day 10: Santiago de Cuba – Bayamo Day 11: Bayamo – Camagüey Day 12: Camagüey – Trinidad Take a guided walking tour of Camagüey city before arriving in Trinidad. Day 13-14: Trinidad Enjoy a guided tour of Trinidad and the Sugar Mill Valley to learn about these areas in depth. Day 15: Trinidad – Cienfuegos – Havana After breakfast, transfer to Cienfuegos, the The Pearl of the Caribbean. The provincial city of Cienfuegos was founded in 1819 with the name of Villa Fernandina de Jagua. Located in the south centre of the island, it is one of the most interesting cities with a wealth of beautiful mansions. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a local Cuban restaurant. Day 16: Havana Transfer to the airport where your Cuba arrangements end.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, 6 lunches, 6 dinners, private transport & sightseeing with private local professional guides

Inclusions: 15 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 3 lunches, private transport & sightseeing with local professional guides, flight Havana to Baracoa

Price Guide From: $3395

Price Guide From: $4840

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

C UBA

Cycle Cuba

True Cuba

7 days/6 nights

12 days/11 nights

See Cuba from two wheels as you cycle from Havana to Viñales via the beauty of Soroa. Get a unique view of Havana, then hit the road less travelled past farms and tobacco plantations in Viñales, beside vintage cars and horse-drawn carriages. Cool off in the river pools in Las Terrazas and in clear blue waters at the coast.

See the best of Cuba combining our favourite spots with a few days at the beach. Enjoy warm Cuban hospitality staying in a lovely family run hotel in Havana before setting off to the lush scenic Viñales Valley. Trinidad is one of the most enchanting towns in Cuba to stay, and one last treat are the white sand beaches of Varadero.

Day 1: Havana Having arrived in Havana transfer to your hotel.

Day 1: Havana Arrive Havana and transfer to your boutique family owned hotel for two nights.

Day 2: Havana – Soroa See the architectural beauty of Old Havana on a walking tour. Later you will head to the outskirts of the city for a bike fitting and test ride. Hop into the support vehicle for the drive to Soroa known as ‘the rainbow of Cuba’. Day 3: Soroa – Las Terrazas Cycle from Soroa to the renowned ecovillage of Comunidad Las Terrazas, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve set in beautiful green surrounds and take a dip in the nearby waterfalls. Bus back to Soroa and visit the spectacular Soroa Orchid Garden. Day 4: Viñales Leave Soroa by bus to hilly Cueva de los Portales then ride onto Viñales through a lush scenic landscape. Visit a tobacco farm on the way and after settling into your guesthouse, enjoy dinner at a local organic farm. Day 5: Viñales – Cayo Jutias A good breakfast sets you up for one of the longer cycles to Cayo Jutias for the dreamy white sand beaches and crystal clear blue waters. There’s plenty of time to swim and to enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch. After unwinding, take the support vehicle back to Viñales. Day 6: Havana Cycle around 40 kilometres from Viñales to Consolacion del Sur, with some interesting stops along the way. Transfer back to Havana where you can take check out some more of the city sights and enjoy one last night on the town. Day 7: Havana After breakfast your tour arrangements come to an end and you are free to depart. Note: Bike helmets are compulsory. They are unable to be purchased or hired locally, so make sure to bring your own helmet.

Day 2: Havana After breakfast take a walking tour of old Havana - a living monument, a precious gem with the whole area designated a UNESCO World Heritage-site. Enjoy a salsa lesson in the afternoon and a vintage car ride through the modern part of the city. Day 3-4: Viñales Fall in love with the Viñales Valley on your drive through lush scenery where limestone cliffs rise up from the agricultural land, some up to 300 metres. Visit tobacco plantations and cigar factories on the way. The small town of Viñales is easy going after a rewarding hike in the nearby countryside. Day 5-7: Trinidad Charming Trinidad and its cobblestone streets hum to the sound of salsa rhythms drawing you into the night. Its colonial sugar plantation riches are faded but still make it another World Heritage-site. Learn about its illustrious past and visit Cienfuegos the Pearl of the South on the way. Day 8-10: Varadero Leaving Trinidad visit Santa Clara, famous for the last battle of the 1958 revolution with Che Guevara triumphant. He is honoured in an imposing mausoleum and in murals and statues across this attractive town. Reaching your bed for the next three nights of leisure by the long white sand beaches will feel great. Time to savour this unique exotic country with a fascinating, sometimes tumultuous past. Day 11: Transfer after breakfast Varadero to Havana A pleasant drive back for one last night in Havana. Day 12: Transfer to international airport Transfer to the airport after breakfast for your onward flight.

Departures: Set departures

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation, 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner, bicycle support vehicle, bike hire & fitting, Old Havana walking tour, orchid garden tour, beach excursion

Inclusions: 11 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 2 lunches, full board at Varadero, airport transfers, transportation, walking tour old Havana & Cienfuegos, salsa lesson, plantation & cigar factory visit, Viñales Valley hike, full day sugar valley tour from Trinidad, Santa Clara tour

Price Guide From: $1775

Price Guide From: $3960

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

BELI Z E & GUAT EM AL A

BELIZE & GUATEMALA Belize, well known for its incredible beaches, and where the snorkelling and diving along the reef are superb. Like its neighbour Guatemala, there are hidden Mayan ruins, reminders of a sophisticated civilisation that flourished up to 4000 years ago. The most famous, Tikal, in Guatemala, is arguably Central America’s most magnificent Mayan site. Add to this the country’s Spanish colonial past, shown in its beautifully preserved colonial buildings and excellent language schools.

Belize Jungle & Beach

Spanish Homestay Experience

Maya Magic & Mystery

8 days/7 nights

Explore the mysterious jungle of Western Belize in the Cayo District. Visit ancient Mayan ruins, learn about their history and spend time in the beach town of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye Island to relax and unwind.

Brush up on your Spanish speaking skills on this week long Homestay Experience in beautiful Antigua City, Guatemala. A fun way to learn with one-on-one teaching, all while being immersed in the local culture.

Visit the ancient Maya temples that tower above the lush rainforest at Tikal. Visit the archaeology site of Iximche, Lake Atitlan, and enjoy a full day tour of San Juan, Santiago as well as the famous Chichicastenango Markets.

Day 1: Belize City Arrive Belize City Airport and transfer to the Cayo District. Get ready for adventures in the jungle.

Day 1: Guatemala City – Antigua Airport arrival transfer to Antigua City. Meet your homestay hosts. Guatemalan’s take pride in their hospitality so you will be warmly welcomed for this week long experience.

Day 1-2: Guatemala City – Antigua Transfer to Antigua. Enjoy the fair trade coffee tour on your stay.

Day 2-4: Cayo District Explore the Cayo District, ancient Mayan ruins, jungle caves and creeks. Day 5: Cayo District – San Pedro, Ambergris Caye Fly to picture perfect San Pedro, the afternoon is free.

Day 5-6: Chichicastenango – Guatemala City – Flores Visit Chichicastenango Market and fly Guatemala City to Flores. Yaxha Sunset Tour. Day 7: Tikal Ruins – Flores – Guatemala City Join a Tikal tour before your return flight to Guatemala City.

Day 6-7: San Pedro, Ambergris Caye Enjoy a half day snorkelling tour.

Day 8: Antigua – Guatemala City Transfer back to Guatemala City Airport where your arrangements end.

Day 8: San Pedro – Belize City Fly to Belize City Airport where your arrangements end.

Note: Hotel accommodation options are also available.

Departures: Daily

Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, return domestic flights, airport transfers & transport, sightseeing mentioned in itinerary

Inclusions: 7 night’s homestay accommodation with all meals, airport transfers, Antigua City walking tour, 20 hours of private Spanish lessons

Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 5 lunches, return private airport transfers, return flights Guatemala City to Flores, transport, sightseeing & entrance fees

Price Guide From: $1399

Price Guide From: $4890

Price Guide From: $4099

Day 2-7: Antigua City Over five days you’ll have private lessons with an experienced local Spanish language teacher. During the week enjoy a walking tour and spare time outside of lessons to explore lovely Antigua City.

Day 3-4: Antigua – Lake Atitlan Sightsee along the way to Lake Atitlan. Full day San Juan and Santiago Village Tour.

Day 8: Guatemala City Transfer to airport.

The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

Set amongst lush forest with wildlife and lava-spilling volcanoes, Costa Rica also boasts pristine beaches on both Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea coastlines. Blessed with both rainforest and high altitude cloud forest, Costa Rica has developed canopy walks to bring exotic orchids and bromeliads up close. Panama also offers immense natural beauty with its pristine beaches, tropical rainforests, and mountains, whilst Panama City is full of energy and excitement.

C OSTA RI CA & PANAM A

COSTA RICA & PANAMA

The Best of Costa Rica

Pura Vida Costa Rica

The Essence of Panama

8 days/7 nights

All the essentials of Costa Rica offering adventures of a lifetime. Hike to an impressive volcano, wander through tropical jungles and zip line through the cloud forest and enjoy a thrilling experience to Tortuguero.

Experience the biological wonder of Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica’s jewel in the crown with an abundance of wildlife on land and in its marine reserve. Try to spot the elusive Quetzal bird in the misty cloud forest.

Experience the essence of Panama. Historical sites, the captivating Panama Canal, coffee plantations of Boquete, turquoise waters and the white sand beaches of Bocas del Toro.

Day 1: San José Transfer to your hotel for a one night stay.

Day 1: San José Transfer to your hotel.

Day 2-3: San José – Tortuguero Boat ride to Tortuguero National Park. Enjoy guided activities of the area.

Day 2: San José – San Gerardo de Dota Transfer to your lodge in San Gerardo de Dota.

Day 1-2: Panama City Embark on a partial transit of the Panama Canal.

Day 4: Tortuguero – Arenal Journey towards Arenal, with its spectacular volcano. Day 5-6: Arenal – Monteverde Cloud Forest Take a boat across Arenal lake and a car to the cloud forest. Enjoy the Sky Trek Tram Tour. Day 7: Monteverde – San José Return to San José. Day 8: Transfer to San José Airport Airport transfer.

Day 3: Quetzal Tour – Playa Dominical Try to spot the famous Quetzal bird! Transfer from cloud forest to the beach. Day 4-6: Osa Peninsula – Corcovado National Park – Caño Island Boat trip to Corcovado Jungle lodge for three nights. Rainforest hike and snorkel in the Coral Garden. Day 7: Osa Peninsula – San José Return to San José. Day 8: San José Transfer to the airport.

Day 3-4: Panama City – Boquete Fly to Boquete. Spend two nights on a coffee plantation and learn the process of coffee cultivation. Day 5: Boquete – Bocas del Toro Day 6: Bocas del Toro Spend the day at leisure on the pristine sands of Bocas del Toro archipelago. Day 7: Panama City Fly to Panama City for an overnight stay. Day 8: Panama City Transfer to Panama City Airport.

Departures: Daily

Departures: Friday

Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, return airport transfers, transport & sightseeing

Inclusions: 7 nights hotels/lodge, breakfast daily, full board in Corcovado, airport transfers, all ground transfers & tours described, local guides, flight Palmar Sur–San José.

Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, transport, sightseeing, domestic flights

Price Guide From: $1845

Price Guide From: $2625

Price Guide From: $3325 The price guide shown is per adult for twin share, based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

Discover

South America with Intrepid Travel

Colourful, candid and everything in between, South America is as diverse as it is huge. And if you’re looking for your next adventure, a trip with Intrepid Travel should be front of mind. With an average group size of just 10 travellers, you’ll spend your days uncovering the very best experiences with your local leader while getting a taste of everything this continent has to oﬀer. And just in case you were wondering, the must-dos include hiking and trekking in Peru, spending a day sipping wine at Argentina’s vineyards or dancing all night in Brazil. With Intrepid, you’ll eat, drink and travel the local way, enjoy a balance of inclusions and free time, visit a mix of classic highlights yet also uncover local secrets you won’t ﬁnd on Google. Get ready for an adventure you’ll remember forever.

Small groups | Local leaders | Responsible travel

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Please read these booking conditions carefully CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT The guarantees under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 will apply to services supplied by us except where they are acquired, or held out as being acquired for business purposes. 1. OUR SERVICES AND OBLIGATIONS 1.1 House of Travel Ltd (‘we” or “us” as the case may be) supply services consisting of arranging and co-ordinating travel facilities and services, and making bookings and issuing vouchers to be redeemed by suppliers of travel, entertainment, and accommodation facilities or services (“Suppliers”). House of Travel Ltd is part of the House of Travel group. 1.2 We undertake to perform these services with reasonable care and skill. We will not be liable for any loss or damage which results from the act, default or omission of any person other than ourselves, our employees or agents, or any cause independent of human control. This includes (but is not limited to), loss or damage which arises directly or indirectly from any act of God, weather disruptions, dangers incidental to the sea, fire, breakdown in machinery or equipment, acts of Governments or other authorities de jure or de facto, wars whether declared or not, hostilities, civil disturbances, strikes, riots, deaths, pilferage, epidemics, quarantines or medical or customs regulations. 1.3 We are not able to exercise control over services we do not supply directly, therefore we will not be responsible for any loss or damage arising from: • Any booking made directly with a service Supplier by your travel agent, or • Any services which are not directly provided by us and which are additional to those recorded in clause 1.1 above. 1.4 We will endeavour to provide the most suitable travel arrangements to meet the particular requirements you make known to us. However, travel is an individual experience, and your preferences and opinions may vary from our own. For this reason, we cannot take responsibility for your individual satisfaction. 2. SUPPLY OF TRAVEL, ENTERTAINMENT AND ACCOMMODATION SERVICES AND FACILITIES 2.1 When we make bookings with Suppliers, we are acting as a booking agent for such Supplier. 2.2 All travel, entertainment, and accommodation facilities or services are supplied directly to you by the Suppliers. We have no control over the facilities or services themselves, or the manner in which they are provided by the Suppliers. Therefore you should be aware of the following conditions: • We will not be liable for any loss or damage of any kind which may arise from your use or consumption of, or inability to use or consume those facilities or services. • The provision of those facilities or services is subject to the terms and conditions of your contract with each Supplier. • Where for any reason, a Supplier is unable to provide particular facilities or services, then that Supplier may be entitled, under its contract with you, to substitute those services or facilities with comparable or equivalent facilities or services without incurring any liability to you. You should check your contract with each Supplier. • All facilities or services described by us are subject to availability from the Supplier. • We will not be liable or responsible for any loss or damage relating to your baggage, personal possessions, health or welfare, or delays or travel disruptions unless these arise directly from the service we provide to you. 3. BUSINESS PURPOSES You agree that where our services are acquired for business purposes, or where you hold yourself out as acquiring our services for business purposes, the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 will not apply to any supply of goods or services made under these conditions, and we will not be liable or responsible for any loss or damage of any kind to you, including any consequential loss or damage however it may be caused. 4. INFORMATION IN THIS BROCHURE 4.1 While we attempt to ensure that the contents of this brochure are correct, accurate, and up to date at the time of printing, the contents of this brochure are drawn from information supplied to us by Suppliers. We do not have, and cannot be reasonably expected to have, personal knowledge about all of the facilities or services provided by each Supplier. 4.2 Facilities or services may change after the date of printing. We endeavour to keep travel agents informed of any changes to information in this brochure which are brought to our attention. Prior to completing your booking, you should ask your travel agent whether they are aware of any changes to the published information. You should also make sure that if

your travel agent is advised of changes which occur after booking, your travel agent is able to contact you. 4.3 Maps and Photographs: Maps are shown for general information and may not necessarily reflect actual routings, locations or services provided. Photographs may show places in the geographic area which are not included in your booking. Hotel room photographs may not be the actual room occupied. 4.4 Property Information: Descriptions featured in this brochure are drawn from information provided by our Suppliers. Any facilities or services shown are subject to change at any time. Please advise your travel agent if you have any special requirements. 4.5 Room Bedding: Based on existing bedding in the room. Requests for specific bedding arrangements must be made at the time of booking but can not be guaranteed. For example, twin share may consist of single beds or a shared double bed. 4.6 Rental Cars: We cannot guarantee to provide a particular model or colour within the car category. Availability of car categories is subject to confirmation at the time of booking. We reserve the right to substitute different models. If a vehicle is returned prior to the end of the reserved rental period or if the vehicle is picked up later than the reserved date, NO REFUND will be made for unused rental days

8.3 We strongly recommend that you insure yourself fully against cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances. See Section 10. 9. RESERVATION AMENDMENTS We are happy to incorporate any reasonable amendments you request. An amendment constitutes a change to an existing booking and will attract a $25 fee per amendment prior to final payment and the issuing of the travel documents, and a $50 fee per amendment after travel documents have been issued. These fees are to cover administration and communication costs. You may also be required to pay any Supplier imposed fees. 10. INSURANCE We strongly recommend that you insure yourself fully against cancellation, loss of luggage and personal property, and medical expenses. Your travel agent will be able to provide you with further information. 11. ITEMS NOT COVERED Unless otherwise specified, the cost of airfares, meals, drinks, laundry, insurance, sightseeing, transfers, local taxes, airport departure taxes, Airline imposed insurance levies, passenger service charges and Passport or Visa application fees are not included.

5. PRICES

12. VISAS/PASSPORTS

5.1 The prices provided are a guide only based on low season, per adult share twin and are correct at the time of printing. The actual price may differ to that indicated due to currency fluctuations, special events, trade shows or peak periods. Prices for tours are based on per adult per tour for share twin based on low season travel. Prices for cruises are per person for the complete cruise based on the lead-in cabin category on a low season sailing.

For all holidays in this brochure you will require a valid passport. You are responsible for arranging your own passport, visa and health requirements including inoculation. You should check with your travel agent who will be able to provide you with the necessary information.

5.2 We will guarantee the price of the portion of the booking as processed by us, against currency fluctuation for a period of seven (7) days from the time of confirmation of the booking; note: special conditions apply for cruise bookings. It is the responsibility of your travel agent to advise you of the date of confirmation. If your booking remains unpaid after the seven (7) day guarantee period it will be subject to currency fluctuation, up to the time full payment is received by us. 5.3 Events beyond our control, such as changes to the prices of aviation fuel or changes to the cost of services or facilities may result in the prices charged to you being different from those shown in the brochure. You should check all prices with your travel agent before making reservations, and before ticketing. 5.4 Prices may also be liable to variation between the time of booking and the date of departure due to events beyond our control. Due to unforeseen events we reserve the right to vary the price up to the time of your departure. 6. HOUSE OF TRAVEL ACCOMMODATION RATINGS To assist you with the selection of your accommodation, we have created our own rating system allowing you to compare each property. Please note that these gradings are to be used as a guide only and may alter throughout the year due to a change of circumstances. When selecting your accommodation please note that the overall quality of properties in South & Central America is generally lower than equivalent priced properties in other countries, particularly in the lower ratings. In general the room sizes are quite small and can vary, even within one property. Please check with your House of Travel consultant to ensure you get the property that best suits your needs. 7. PAYMENT 7.1 A non-refundable deposit will be required by your travel agent and must be paid at the time of booking. This is in addition to any deposits imposed by Suppliers. 7.2 A communication charge may be made for bookings requested less than 72 hours prior to departure. 7.3 Final payment must be made in full before we can release travel documents (including tickets). 8. CANCELLATION 8.1 If you wish to cancel your booking for any reason, you must advise us in writing through your travel agent as soon as possible. 8.2 If you cancel your booking or any part of your booking, we will impose a cancellation fee in respect of each person travelling under that booking. You must also pay all cancellation fees imposed by Suppliers and your travel agent. These cancellation fees are required to offset booking, communication, and administrative charges which have already been incurred by us, Suppliers and your travel agent. Cancellation fees imposed by Suppliers and travel agents are beyond our control and you should check with your travel agent regarding what cancellation fees may be applicable.

13. NON-USE OF SERVICES OR FACILITIES If, of your own choice, you decide not to use part or parts of the arranged services or facilities, you will not be entitled to a refund from us (provided we have carried out our service with reasonable skill and care and to your requirements) and you may not be entitled to a refund from any Supplier. 14. HEALTH OR DISABILITY Some Suppliers may reserve the right to refuse to carry or accommodate people who because of a health condition or disability may require services or facilities to be provided in a special manner. You should check this with your travel agent. 15. SERVICE SATISFACTION During your holiday, if you encounter any situation where the service supplied to you does not meet your satisfaction, please take the matter up with the Supplier immediately. Your contract for each service is with the Supplier. If this is not possible immediately, or if you are still dissatisfied, please contact your travel agent. Both we and your travel agent will endeavour to investigate on your behalf and to negotiate with the Supplier to resolve the matter as soon as possible, so that you continue to enjoy your journey. 16. LEGAL CLAIMS Any claims or legal action in connection with the provision of our services to you will be governed by the laws of New Zealand. Any claim or legal action against the Suppliers is likely to be subject to the terms of your contract with them, and may be governed by the laws of other countries.

ALL OUR HOUSE OF TRAVEL CONSULTANTS LOVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SIT DOWN WITH YOU AND HELP PLAN YOUR NEXT GREAT HOLIDAY.

We’ll take your ideas then add our own tips and suggestions on how to make your time away very special.

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But just as important we’ll help you avoid the various pitfalls when booking flights, tours and accommodation along with lengthy flight connections, sudden cancellations, forgotten visas, lost luggage and missing passports to name a few. It’s what we’ve been doing every single day for the last 30 years now. Making Kiwi holidays even better by working together.

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WE’RE HERE TO HELP.

BET TER TOGETHER

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