best of south america - over 55 s adventure

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1 South America best of south america trip highlights Sightseeing in Buenos Aires the Paris of South America The magnificent waterfalls of Iguazu Falls The splendor of Cusco Walking in the beautiful Sacred Valley to view ancient Inca salt pans Alternative Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu with dramatic mountain views 3 hearty meals a day on trek prepared by our cooks Visit Machu Picchu on two occasions Tourist train from Machu Picchu Classic railway journey on the Orient Express train across the vast Bolivian altiplano to Lake Titicaca welcome to World Expeditions Thank you for your interest in our Best of South America - Over 55 s adventure trip. At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the enjoyment of small groups or individuals - philosophies that have been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience, designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for a life changing experience!! Trip Duration 23 days Trip Code: SA5 Grade Introductory level Activities Trekking, Adventure Touring and Over 55 Adventures Accommodation 23 day trip, 4 day trek, 3 nights camping and 19 nights hotel/jungle lodge why travel with World Expeditions? Our Peruvian operations are directed by Andreas Holland who has lived and worked in South America for over 25 years. His staff are dedicated to providing you with the very best travel experience while ensuring that our operations comply with all the rules for responsible and sustainable tourism. This trip offers exceptional value for money, using good quality, centrally located hotels, the best internal flights with the best airlines, private transportation in vehicles that are driven by our drivers and maintained by recognized mechanics, many meals, all your entrance fees and permit fees, expert leadership and much more. Compare our prices and all our inclusions and we feel that few trips can compare in terms of value for money. Given our local knowledge, experience and excellent leadership, we are quite sure that this trip will be the trip of a lifetime Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Rachel Imber 24/01/ :37:00 AM

2 best of south america Peru Lima Machu Picchu Puerto Maldonado Cusco La Paz Puno Bolivia Chile Iguazu Falls Argentina trip dates Mar 24 Apr 15 May 19 Jun 17 Jul 14 Aug 11 Sep 09 Oct 05 Nov 17 Dec - 18 Apr 16 May 06 Jun 11 Jul S 08 Aug 05 Sep 03 Oct 31 Oct 27 Nov 1 08 Jan 1 26 Mar 23 Apr 14 May 18 Jun 16 Jul 13 Aug 03 Sep 08 Oct 04 Nov 16 Dec - 17 Apr 15 May 05 Jun 10 Jul S 07 Aug 04 Sep 25 Sep 30 Oct 26 Nov 1 07 Jan 1 important notes trip cost Joining Buenos Aires: $4290 options & supplements Single Supplement Tent Only: $70 S - Inti Raymi Festival Hotel Surcharge Twin: $160 S - Inti Raymi Festival Hotel Surcharge Twin: $260 Single Supplement: the trip $1070 World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender and if we can not match you up we will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room. The cost of the single supplement is listed above. For competitive airfares and stopover ideas to join this adventure, contact our expert staff today to receive a detailed quote. Buenos Aires On this complete panorama of South America we combine the cultural highlights with time in the Amazon jungle and a well-devised trek in the Andes. If you have not trekked before don t worry, our five star trekking service will ensure a safe and satisfying experience. Exploring the cultural dimensions of our journey we travel from Buenos Aires, the vibrant Paris of South America, and the magnificent Iguazu Falls to Lima. We continue onto Cusco, with its endearing Inca and Spanish heritage and La Paz with its colourful markets and live music clubs. By contrast, the more active stages of the program will provide further enduring memories. In the rainforest of the Amazon jungle, we undertake gentle canoe trips in search of the prolific birdlife, while in the Andes we trek for four days along a beautiful, recently restored Inca Trail. In the company of our experienced guides we follow an ancient granite trail through orchid-filled cloud forest before finally ascending the last section of the legendary trail into Machu Picchu. at a glance S - Inti Raymi Festival Hotel Surcharge Twin Note: - Flights Buenos Aires/Iguazu/Lima/ Puerto Maldonado/Cusco are not included 1 - Trip includes an extra day in Cusco and one day less in Puno due to train schedules. Brazil Day 1 Arrive Buenos Aires (Argentina) Day 2 Fly to Iguazu Falls Day 3 Fly to Lima Day 4 In Lima - city tour Day 5 Fly to Puerto Maldonado Jungle Lodge Day 6 Jungle Lodge Day 7 Fly to Cusco Day 8 Tour of Cusco and the nearby ruins. Day 9 Drive and walk down into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Day 10 Second day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Day 11 Alternative Inca Trail trek commences Day 12 Trek to Q ente Day 13 Continue trek along Urubamba River Day 14 Train to KM 104 and complete trek, arrive at Aguas Calientes Day 15 Explore Machu Picchu and return to Cusco. Day 16 Cusco - free day. Day 17 Train to Puno and Lake Titicaca Day 18 Lake Titicaca - the Uros Islands Day 19 Drive from Puno to Copacabana. Day 20 Drive from Copacabana to La Paz. Day 21 Morning walking tour of the city of La Paz. Day 22 Free day in La Paz. Day 23 Trip concludes in La Paz. what s included 22 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 5 dinners airport transfers classic train trip on Orient Express from Cusco to Puno expert bilingual guide group medical kit good quality hotel accommodation, primarily Casa Andina Classic hotels all internal transportation by private vehicle gear pack including sleeping bag, fibre filled jacket and thermarest mat Group camping equipment porters on trail Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Rachel Imber 24/01/ :37:00 AM

3 sightseeing and site entrance fees as listed Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have chosen a policy not to ask for such payments. detailed itinerary Day 1 arrive Buenos Aires (Argentina) If you are arriving on day one of the trip, you will be met at the airport and transferred to the group hotel in the centre of the city. Otherwise please make your way to the hotel listed on your final itinerary our pre-departure information provides details on travelling to the city from the airport. This afternoon we will undertake a short sightseeing program in Buenos Aires (subject to your flight arrival time). meals: NIL Day 2 Fly to Iguazu Falls Today we leave early for the domestic airport to take a flight north to Iguazu Falls, set in lush rainforest on the border of Argentina and Brazil. Though not the highest or largest falls in the world, they are very spectacular. The area contains more than twenty-five different cataracts some small, some absolutely massive. The largest of all is the Boca or Garganta del Diablo. In the afternoon we will enjoy a guided tour of the falls on the Argentine side. Overnight at Iguazu. Day 3 Fly to Lima During the morning we will take a tour of the Brazilian side of the falls before transferring to the airport on the Brazilian side of the falls for our onward flight to Lima. You will be met at Lima airport and transferred to the hotel which is well located in the suburb of Miraflores. Day 4 In Lima - city tour This morning we will be taken on a guided tour of the city, founded by Francisco Pizarro in It has a superb combination of Spanish Colonial and 19th century European architecture. We ll also visit the famous Museo de la Nacion or the Larco Herrera Museum - which give us an excellent overview of the Andean cultures. The rest of the day will be at leisure giving you time to rest in the hotel or just wander around Miraflores, the area of Lima where our hotel is located. Some of Lima s best galleries and shops and restaurants are found in this area. *This evening, please be sure to repack your luggage for the jungle - see Clothing & Equipment list in your Pre-Departure Notes or ask your guide). Day 5 Fly to Puerto Maldonado Jungle Lodge We transfer to the airport for the flight (via Cusco) due east to the jungle town of Puerto Maldonado. Transfer by boat and on foot to your simple but comfortable jungle lodge. We spend the night in a lodge that was originally built as a base for naturalists. The rainforest surrounding the lodge is a nature lover s paradise and many of the rooms actually overlook the glorious jungle. The lodge has comfortable twin share rooms - some with private facilities - others with shared bathrooms. Some (but not all lodges) have electricity for a few hours a day and whilst in the hot and humid jungle Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Rachel Imber 24/01/ :37:00 AM

4 fast facts Countries Visited: Argentina, Brazil, Peru & Bolivia Visas: Please check visa requirements with your reservations consultant* Vaccinations: Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information Private Groups: Private group options are available for this trip* Singles: A single supplement is available for this trip* Leader: Expert local leader in each country Brochure Reference: The Americas *Ask our staff for more information. please do not expect hot showers. The lodges we use are definitely the most comfortable and well appointed lodges in this jungle area. Please note that due to demand it is sometimes necessary to use an alternative lodge in this area.,l,d Day 6 Jungle Lodge Day walks in jungle and canoe journeys on lake - there is a particularly abundant bird life - including anhinga, hoatzin, horned screamers, raptors, plovers, terns, macaws, parrots, kingfishers and toucans. We can almost guarantee we will see lots of monkey including troops of capuchin, dusky titi, spider & howler, plus possibility of seeing large cayman and giant river otter. Overnight in the lodge. PLEASE NOTE: it is important to be aware that the programs may vary according to flight schedules, weather, river height, group sizes, etc and participants should be aware there is no guarantee of seeing specific animals or birds and in general you may not see much wildlife since the rainforest provides such good camouflage for its inhabitants - but you will have a good chance to experience true rainforest first hand.,l,d Day 7 Fly to Cusco Early morning departure after breakfast for the downriver trip to Puerto Maldonado and the short flight back to Cusco 11,200 (3,400m), arriving there around midday. You ll be met by your guide and transferred from Cusco airport to our hotel for a short initial briefing and then a few hours of rest, essential to initiate successful acclimatisation. In the evening you ll have a longer briefing to discuss aspects of the itinerary and in particular the trek. Day 8 Tour of Cusco and the nearby ruins. Every alleyway we enter or corner we turn brings another surprise or enigma in the form of the superbly constructed Inca walls or the more architecturally extravagant colonial churches and palaces. The city, once capital of the extensive Inca Empire, has seen many changes since Francisco Pizarro s men took the city with such apparent ease in November We also take a short drive to visit the monolithic walls of Sacsayhuaman, spectacularly set above the city. In the afternoon you may have time to explore some of the central parts of the city and a chance to look at some of the great varieties of local craft work on sale in open air stalls and shop. Day 9 Drive and walk down into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We leave Cusco and head to the Chinchero Plateau from where we get impressive views of three mountain ranges. We then walk down through the remarkable Inca Salt Pans below Maras. We end up in the Sacred valley near a good restaurant where we can savour dishes made with locally grown produce. After a leisurely lunch we head for our hotel in the valley. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy beauty of this famous valley. Day 10 Second day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Another day in this beautiful place. The valley actually follows the course of the famous Urubamba River, one of the main tributaries of the Amazon River. During our time in the here we visit some of the enthralling citadels, fortresses and temple ruins that are found along the valley including the site at Ollantaytambo. The village itself is a fascinating mixture of Inca and Colonial architecture. If the weather is good and we have time we can enjoy some short walks in the valley - a good way to prepare for the trek ahead. The evening is spent preparing for the trek at our hotel Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Rachel Imber 24/01/ :37:00 AM

5 responsible travel The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural Australian National Travel Industry s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible and sustainable travel is provided to all World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our website trip grading Introductory adventures are designed with the first time trekker in mind. They are challenging enough to make it a real adventure holiday, however the daily physical exercise is limited to around six hours and altitudes generally less than 4100m. Introductory adventures are not necessarily easy. There will be some long steep ascents and some rough ground to cover. Remember trekking rarely involves flat terrain. *Two to three months prior to departure you should spend thirty minutes to one hour exercising, three or four times per week eg. Hard walking, jogging or cycling. To prepare for a walking holiday we recommend you take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs and/or hills, for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. Please remember the fitter you are the more you will enjoy your holiday. Day 11 alternative Inca Trail trek commences Early morning departure for a beautiful short drive to the trailhead at Cachicata. At this point we meet our cooks, porters and camp staff before setting off on one of the famous Royal Highways of the Incas built more than 500 years ago. This trail is beautiful and should not be mixed up with the Classic Inca Trail. This ancient alternative trail is less arduous, warmer and at lower altitude than the traditional Inca Trail, and for those not wishing to trek, we can accommodate you in a comfortable location in Ollantaytambo. Importantly, this trail is peaceful and quiet, and you are likely to encounter very few other people on this trail, which has received glowing reports from many other past trekkers. This first day of walking lasts about approximately 4 to 5 hours during which we follow a well defined path along the Urubamba River to our first campsite opposite Salapuncu 9,000 (2,750m) - a wonderful campsite that affords terrific views of the great snowpeak of Veronica (19,700 feet!). Camp,L,D Day 12 Trek to Q ente Today our trek will take us via the major archaeological sites of Patallacta and Q ente. We will visit the beautifully set ruins at Machu Q ente,in a setting of cloud forest, strange Andean plants and dozens of varieties of orchids growing in the wild. Return to Q ente on the banks of the Urubamba River. Camp,L,D Day 13 Continue trek along Urubamba River The trek continues today as we follow this trail that for centuries has followed the banks of the great sacred river - also known as the Vilcamayo. We ll cross the River at Km88 and walk back along the right hand side of the river via the archaeological sites of Canabamba, Torontoy & Salapuncu. Parts of the trail are set in high polylepis forests with the most wonderful examples of epiphytes and bromeliads. Our walk will end at the campsite of Apu Veronica. Camp.,L,D Day 14 Train to KM 104 and complete trek, arrive at Aguas Calientes This morning we will take a one hour train ride along the Urubamba River to Km104. Here we will join the very popular part of the Inca Trail - an opportunity to exchange tales with lots of other trekkers! Below us are laid out the great forest-covered peaks and deep dark valleys - the setting of our goal, Machu Picchu at 7,900 (2,400m). On the way we ll take time out to explore the recently cleared extensive ruins of Wiñay Wayna, before covering the last few miles to finally reach Inti Punku (The Gateway to the Sun) awe-inspiringly set above the lost city of Machu Picchu. Your first view of the ruins really does take your breath away! After a brief first look at the ruins, we head down to our hotel in Aguas Calientes for a well deserved soak in the nearby hot springs (optional). Important: It is very important to be aware that, because of all the new rules in the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, there may be changes in the actual trek itinerary and the campsites we use.,l Day 15 Explore Machu Picchu and return to Cusco. Today we start early to thoroughly explore these remarkable and truly enigmatic ruins. After a professionally led tour of the site we re free to explore the rest of the amazing sights. Mid-afternoon we depart from Machu Picchu for the extremely pretty train ride back to Ollantaytambo where we transfer to our vehicle for the drive back to Cusco. Here we transfer to our hotel for two nights Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Rachel Imber 24/01/ :37:00 AM

6 adventure travel By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your consultant or travel agent. important note These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede any information in the current brochure, including but not limited to the itinerary and price. The itinerary should be seen as a guide only. This itinerary may change at any time due to inclement weather, forces of nature and other circumstances beyond our control. Day 16 Cusco - free day. A good day to relax, do your washing and re pack after the trek and perhaps a chance to do some tourist shopping, selecting from a great variety of expertly made craft work - including alpaca sweaters and hats, ceramics, weavings and traditional Andean instruments. In the evening we prepare for the next stage of our journey through the Andes. Day 17 Train to Puno and Lake Titicaca We depart early in the morning for the 8 to 10 hour long railway journey to Puno set on the shores of Lake Titicaca at 12,530 (3,820m). The journey has been described as one of the last remaining classic train journeys of the world. (It was one of the featured sections of the BBC series Great Railway Journeys of the World ). These days the train belongs to the Orient Express Company and it is a luxurious ride, with just 2 stops along the way, in La Raya, the highest point between Cusco and Puno 14,200 (4,330m) and Juliaca, before Puno. From the comfortable carriages, one of which has been converted into a glass lounge, we watch the Andean scenes flash by.,l Day 18 Lake Titicaca - the Uros Islands Puno is a typical high Andean town, set on the shores of the lake and located on the great altiplano that stretches all the way to La Paz. There will be an opportunity to cruise Lake Titicaca the highest navigable lake in the world and visit some of the unique floating tortora reed islands of the Uros Indians. The afternoon is free to relax in Puno and explore its streets and markets. Day 19 Drive from Puno to Copacabana. Return by boat to Puno and drive around the lake and across the border into Bolivia to the town of Copacabana - beautifully situated on the shores of the lake. We have an opportunity to savour the delicious Lake Titicaca trout. We have the rest of the day at leisure to explore this small interesting lakeside town or to walk to the top of the great hill above the city that is the destination of many pilgrims from all over Bolivia. We spend the night in an hotel that has great views across the lake. Day 20 Drive from Copacabana to La Paz. After breakfast we take a 4 to 5 hours drive via the straits of Tiquina - the narrowest and also by coincidence the deepest part of Lake Titicaca - and on across the immense Bolivian altiplano to its biggest city, La Paz - at 12,800 (3,900m) the highest capital city in the world. Day 21 Morning walking tour of the city of La Paz. We spend the morning in this fascinating city visiting its many local and tourist markets and one of its museums. The afternoon is free for you to explore the city. On the last evening after a farewell meal we can visit one of the superb peñas, live music clubs to watch a variety of excellent bands and soloists playing the magical traditional Andean instruments. La Paz has a reputation as the centre of Andean traditional music. Day 22 Free day in La Paz. There is a chance to join an optional tour to the ruins of Tiahuanacu or the highest ski-resort in the world at Chacaltaya. Please discuss the options with your trip guide Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Rachel Imber 24/01/ :37:00 AM

7 Day 23 Trip concludes in La Paz. After checking out of your hotel you will be transferred (if requested) to La Paz airport where your services end. This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control. places of interest TAMBOPATA RESERVE The reserve is located close to Cusco (25 minutes flying time), in the south-eastern Peruvian Province of Madre de Dios, encompassing an area of 5,500 hectares of undisturbed subtropical rain forest. Over the last decade research has shown that the Tambopata reserve has the greatest diversity of wildlife yet discovered in the world. It has more species of birds (over 570), butterflies (over 1200), and many other animal groups, than any other location of its size on earth. This exceptional diversity is due to its privileged location at the meeting of lowland Amazon with three other ecosystems: the Andean foothills, dry forests and pampas grassland. At least seven major forest types can be distinguished at the reserve. The lodge we use for most of our groups is the Sandoval Lake Lodge which overlooks Lago Sandoval and is surrounded by primary rainforest. This lodge is based on twin share rooms and has electricity. The lodge has a large airy restaurant/bar to relax and enjoy in the evenings. The Posadas Amazonas is the other lodge we use. Most of the rooms at the lodge have private facilities and are of a bungalow style construction and blend beautifully with the surrounding forest. There is a central dining room and bar area where briefings and talks take place. This lodge is the only one in this area that has a canopy tower - a perfect place to see the crown of the forest. Both Posadas Amazonas & Sandoval are among the very best lodges in this area. trip extensions NON-TREKKING ALTERNATIVE FOR DAYS (different costs apply depending whether you wish to be escorted or not during these 4 days. Please enquire for more details) DAY 11 Today we drive along the valley to visit the ruins and market town of Pisac, famous for its extensive agricultural terraces. After lunch at a restaurant in the valley we return to our hotel. B DAY 12 We drive along the valley to Ollantaytambo and then up a smaller valley to Huilloq - a traditional village of farmers and weavers where we have a picnic lunch. Those who wish to can then start the pleasant walk back down the valley towards Ollantaytambo before driving back to our hotel for our last night in the Sacred Valley. BL DAY 13 We drive to the railway station at Ollantaytambo where we board the tourist train for the twohour journey down to Aguas Calientes a small village full of restaurants, cafes and bars and some natural hot springs, where we can soak for a couple of hours! The rest of the day is free for shopping and exploring the village. B DAY 14 Early today we will take a bus up to the ruins of Machu Picchu where we watch out for the arrival of the trekkers at Inti Punku ( The Gateway to the Sun ), awe-inspiringly set above the ruins. At this point we join up again as a complete group to continue with the general itinerary. B Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Automated Import 18/02/ :29:34 AM

8 suggested extensions Galapagos Islands Cruise Rio de Janiero Atacama Desert country information Peru - has a population of 28 million, made up of pure-blooded Indians (biggest group are the Quechuas, whose forebears were the Incas ) and Mestizos, who are a mixture of Indian and European backgrounds. More than half the population lives in the largest cities, namely Lima, Arequipa and Trujillo. Peru has an area of 1,300,000 square kms, and is located on the Pacific coast of South America. Its capital, Lima, located 12 degrees south of the equator, was the capital of Spanish South America from its founding in 1535 until the early 19th Century. The old central part of the city with its impressive commercial section, whose architecture was greatly influenced by the English, contrasts sharply with the more modern office blocks, shopping centres and suburbs and especially the ever expanding shanty towns or pueblos jovenes where the poorer country cousins, who move to the city to try and find work and live. Official languages are Spanish and Quechua. Geographically, Peru is made up of the three distinct regions. Firstly the arid coastal strip, mainly desert and up to 60 kms wide. Down the centre of the country runs the great range of snow peaks and highlands that make up part of the immensely long chain of mountains known as the Andes, running from Colombia in the north all the way to the southern tip of Chile. The third region is the jungle - from the eyebrow of the jungle in the Andean foothills to the pristine jungles of the great Amazon rain forest. The coastal area is the economic heartland of Peru, and the coastal waters with the cold Humboldt Current running north up the coast contain some of the richest fishing grounds in the world. The highlands or sierra contain more than a third of the population - mostly the Quechua- or Aymara-speaking Indians engaged mainly in pastoral farming. This is a high, very often lush and fertile land of gentle slopes and valleys surrounded by the high peaks of the Cordilleras Vilcabamba, Vilcanota and Blanca. Cusco, once the capital of the great Inca Empire, stands at 3400 metres (11,200 ) in the heart of the southern sierra. It is remarkable for the perfect stonework of its Inca ruins, its many beautiful colonial churches and palaces, and of course the world-renowned ruins of the lost city of the Incas at Machu Picchu. Bolivia - is a small landlocked country, much of which is made up of gaunt mountain ranges and the high, harsh and tough but beautiful altiplano. The central western part of the country, the most densely inhabited region, contains the capital of La Paz. This fascinating city, home to a mostly Indian population, is stunningly located in a great deep bowl set several hundred metres below the level of the surrounding altiplano. This odd location was chosen by the city s Spanish founding fathers in 1548 to avoid the cold winters suffered above on the plateau. The streets of the city slope steeply in places, and the Indian population lives on the terraced sides of the bowl, above the business, shopping and wealthier residential districts. Lake Titicaca, which forms part of the border between Peru and Bolivia, is also in this region. This is a huge inland sea at 3800m (12,500ft) it is the highest navigable waterway in the world. Argentina - has a population of over 36 million. Its population grew with the European immigrants who arrived in large numbers at the beginning of the century, mostly from Spain and Italy. It has an area of 2,807,500 square kms and is the second largest country in South America (Brazil is larger). Geographically, Argentina is made up of 4 main areas - the Andes, the North, the Pampas, and Patagonia. The Argentine republic is a triangle which rests on the Andes to the west, the tropical jungle in the north and then narrows down to the cold windswept mountains and steppes of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. Its capital, Buenos Aires, has a population of approximately 10 million and is a very sophisticated city. There are corners of Buenos Aires that will remind you of Paris, some of the gardens resemble the severe English Victorian style and, colonial patios evoke the old Lima. Even though it embraces all these styles, Buenos Aires has a personality all of its own that captures newcomers totally. You will find the most beautiful things; Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Automated Import 18/02/ :29:34 AM

9 clothes, leather goods, art and antiques, whilst at night, restaurants and nightclubs stay awake until the early hours of the morning. Bolivia is a small landlocked country, much of which is made up of gaunt mountain ranges and the high, harsh, but beautiful,altiplano. The central western part of the country, the most densely inhabited region, contains the capital of La Paz. This fascinating city, home to a mostly Indian population, is stunningly located in a great deep bowl set several hundred metres below the level of the surrounding altiplano. Lake Titicaca, which forms part of the border between Peru and Bolivia, is also in this region. This is a huge inland sea at 3800m (12,500ft) it is the highest navigable waterway in the world. climate The trekking season in Peru lasts from the end of April (the last month of the wet season) through to mid-october (by which time the rains have returned and hiking becomes more difficult due to muddy trails and snowed-in passes). Temperatures in the area around Lima are warm during the day (20-25 C) and cool (5 C) at night. In the highlands of Peru, where the treks take place, daytime temperatures will be in the range of C falling as low as -10 C at night. Also it is possible that we ll get some snow on the higher ground and some of the higher passes. The trekking season in Bolivia lasts from the end of April (the last month of the wet season) through to mid-october (by which time the rains have returned and hiking becomes more difficult due to muddy trails and snowed-in passes). In the highlands, where our trip takes place, day-time temperature will range from 10 to 25 C, and fall as low as -10 C at night. The weather tends to be dry, clear and stable providing ideal trekking/climbing conditions. The snow conditions also tend to be stable, being firm packed, making for ease of travel and navigation. La Paz and Lake Titicaca also follow similar weather patterns, with warmer, clear days, little wind and cold nights. mountain flights The flight from Lima is a spectacular 55-minute trip which takes you across the Andes to Cusco set at 11,200 (3,400m). If possible try and get a seat on the left side of the aircraft as some of the best views of the Andes can be seen during the last 20 minutes of the flight. a typical day Leaders: During the trip you will be accompanied by a number of different guides and staff. In Buenos Aires, Iguazu and Lima you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel and if included, also have a city or museum tour. These services are carried out by local representatives and city guides (Please note in these places you will not be accompanied by your main guide - so all your meals and free time will be on your own) In Peru you will have 2 different guides; one in the jungle and your main guide will meet you in Cusco and be with you for the remainder of the trip from day 7 onwards. Touring Routine: Depending on the itinerary for the day, you will either be travelling or sightseeing. Local experts generally fill the mornings with tours to the local sites. After lunch, further sightseeing will take place or there will be leisure time for you to read, relax at the hotel or explore. Trekking Routine: Our trekking day starts around 6.30am with a wake-up call and fresh cup of tea brought to your tent. Hot water is available for a light morning wash. Breakfast is served in the dining tent and consists of hot porridge and toast and jam, served with coffee, hot milk and tea. On some days we serve bacon and eggs or pancakes. Before breakfast it s often a good idea for you to pack up your duffle bags, prepare your day packs and take down your tents so that the mule Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Automated Import 18/02/ :29:34 AM

10 or llama skinners can organise the loading for departure. The mornings hike usually lasts from about 8:00am to 12.30pm allowing plenty of rest and photo stops. Lunch is of the picnic type and is prepared by one of the cooks who accompany us during the morning. It consists of salads (vegetables and/or noodles), sometimes soups, salamis, cheese, peanut butter, bread, crackers, tinned meats and fish, topped off by freshly brewed tea and biscuits. After lunch we set off for the afternoon s hike - usually 2 to 3 hours to the camp. On arrival in camp (which will have already been set up in advance) tea and coffee will be served and you are then free to do as you like until dinnertime. Served at 6:30-7:00pm, dinner consists of three courses - soup or fresh salad, a main course of stews, spaghetti or rice dishes (all prepared with fresh meat and vegetables) served with red or white cask wines (on last night of trek) and followed by dessert, tea, coffee and Milo. Nor will you go hungry during the walking day. Apart from lunch you will also get a snack pack made up of chocolates, nuts and fresh fruit. Most of the walking is on fairly well-defined tracks, including some remarkable sections of ancient Inca stone highways. There are occasional river crossings but no really steep sections where scrambling is involved. Most groups like to spread out over the trail, stopping for photographs, resting, and birdwatching or just ambling and taking time out to absorb the lovely surroundings. The only thing we ask you to remember is not to get too far ahead of, or behind the main party, and to keep your guide within view. One of the guides or camp staff almost always walks with the slowest member of the group - so there s no chance of being left behind. In fact almost everyone finds and manages to keep to their own pace. Obviously in the event of very bad weather or adverse conditions, the guide will keep the group as close together as possible. The evenings are often one of the most enjoyable parts of the day. After a relaxing dinner, people like to sit in the dining tent - talking, playing cards or scrabble, reading, chatting or just relaxing (a good idea to bring games, cards and books along).mules (and Porters on the Inca Trail) are used to transport your baggage but you will need a day-pack to carry the things you ll want during the walking day - water bottle, camera etc. meals during the trek We provide a full service while on trek. An important aspect of this service are the meals that are prepared for you and we are frequently complimented by returning travellers about the food provided. Ensuring that you stay healthy is one of our highest priorities. Therefore, each of our treks is accompanied by a trained cook as well as kitchen staff who provide you with three hearty meals each day. High levels of hygiene are engaged to ensure that our travellers stay healthy and fit. Our cooking staff has mastered the preparation of a varied and balanced menu and there is always plenty of food for those who may like seconds. Our cooks are trained to provide excellent food for vegetarians and anyone who has a limited diet including those who are lactose or gluten intolerant. Our meal inclusion on your trek is for your benefit and takes all the hassle, expense and worry out of your holiday. Typically, you can expect breakfast to consist of muesli or cereal, eggs, local breads and pancakes and hot drinks. Lunch will generally be vegetables, salads, bread, cheese pasta style dishes, tinned fish and meats and are normally eaten picnic style. Dinner is always three courses and includes soup, seasonal vegetables, meat, rice or pasta and bread with some local specialties also in the mix. Dessert is always served after the main meal each evening followed by hot beverages. accommodation on the trip During the trip you will be accommodated in generally 3/4 star hotels which have been chosen for their local flavour, central location and cleanliness. what you carry In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc. Whilst on trek the porters will carry all group gear and your trek pack Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Automated Import 18/02/ :29:34 AM

11 equipment required Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre-departure information provided on booking). acute mountain sickness When we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatise to the decreasing amount of the oxygen available. To allow our bodies to adjust we have structured our treks so that you ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur. However, during the acclimatisation process, you may experience some of the following symptoms. Headache Tiredness Disturbed sleep Loss of appetite/nausea Shortness of breath Cough Palpitation Swelling of the hands and face Individuals acclimatise at different rates. Your best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience them it does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our group leaders have extensive first aid training and we urge you to communicate with the group leader at all times should you believe you have any symptoms in order that we can effectively monitor your symptoms. The only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend. Please note that your group leader has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if symptoms persist. porter initiatives Our company was Highly Commended for Best in a Mountain Environment in the Responsible travel awards. Our policies for porter protection and porter care are second to none, and we are proud to be involved with many local projects supporting the porters and their families. high altitude travel by vehicle Travellers sometimes drive or fly to high altitude (above 2000m) and therefore run a risk of altitude illness. This risk increases the faster one ascends and the higher the final altitude gained. The risk is reduced if the night following the ascent (sleeping altitude) is spent at low altitude, ie. If you are travelling by road, cross a high pass and descend to an altitude not more than 300 m from your starting point, the risk of altitude illness is minimized. Gaining height rapidly and staying high definitely risks developing altitude illness and you should be aware of, and watch for, the symptoms (see Acute Mountain Sickness ). You should also consider the use of acetozolamide (Diamox) as an aid to acclimatization and discuss this with your doctor or leader before departure. Should altitude illness occur the treatment is to descend and/or visit a hospital or clinic where the appropriate oxygen and medications can be administered. what s not included Cost of laundry and alcoholic beverages Non-trekking option (please ask our office for additional cost). International flights and taxes Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Automated Import 18/02/ :29:34 AM

12 Internal Flights Buenos Aires/Iguazu/Lima/Puerto Maldonado/Cusco are not included. The domestic flights in South America will be quoted separately as they can often change considerably and depends on the international airline that you fly with internationally. Certain airlines flying to Peru offer special discounted fares for domestic flights if booked in conjunction with the international ticket. Domestic flights have become increasingly expensive, and rather than charge everyone a set amount, our intention is to find you the best possible domestic flight deal in conjunction with your international ticket. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more details and a flight quote. If you are booking the internal flights yourself, please contact us so we can advise which flights are suitable. Travel Insurance Visas Medical treatment Excess baggage costs info nights World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or register on our website - Shows can fill early so it is important to register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two! private groups The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity s, schools or even work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today. subscribe to our e-newsletter To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, or contact our office. social networking Follow us on Facebook at trip availability If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our team at your earliest convenience. how to book To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Automated Import 18/02/ :29:34 AM

13 help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Automated Import 18/02/ :29:34 AM