PERU BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

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1 PERU BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Average High Temperature (ºC / ºF) CITY JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC Arequipa Bogotá Galápagos Islands La Paz Puerto Maldonado

2 PERU TOURING & GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS Free Flights If you combine any G Adventures tour of Peru with a trip to the Galápagos, we ll throw in a free one-way flight to get you between and! The Inca Trail and the wildlife sanctuary of the Galápagos Islands are two of South America s undoubted highlights and high on many travellers bucket lists. There s no worse a feeling than returning home from an adventure knowing you missed out on something great, so our advice is simply this don t! Many tours of South America can be combined with the Galápagos Islands, and on this page we show three of our top-selling tours of Peru combined with three of our favourite sailing trips in the Galápagos (which always include return flights to/from ). Feel free to choose alternative cruises or tours. GALÁPAGOS NORTHERN & CENTRAL ISLANDS & INCA DISCOVERY AMAZON TO THE ANDES & GALÁPAGOS WESTERN ISLANDS ABSOLUTE PERU & GALÁPAGOS NORTHERN & CENTRAL ISLANDS $3,849 $6,199 $5, S 21 S 27 S Four nights of cruising in the Galápagos Climb the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu See the Sacred Valley & Ollantaytambo Explore the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail Look out for exotic Amazonian wildlife Cruise for seven nights in the Galápagos Witness Lake Titicaca and the Nazca Lines Conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Four nights of cruising in the Galápagos From the unique and fearless wildlife of the Galápagos to the towering peaks of the Peruvian Andes, discover two of South America s iconic highlights in one short but sweet adventure. Explore the Galápagos aboard the comfortable boat, the Daphne (G3) and enjoy swimming and snorkeling with the sea lions, before flying back to the mainland for a quick tour of the Highlands including the classic four-day Inca Trail. Please see the following pages for further details of this trip s components, together with inclusions and any local payments: Galápagos Northern & Central Islands (7 days, to ) page 75 Inca Discovery (8 days, to ) page 48 Hike the Inca Trail to the Lost City of Machu Picchu, and explore the Amazonian rainforest from the comfort of an intimate jungle lodge. Top all this with seven nights cruising, swimming and snorkelling in the waters of the Galápagos aboard the comfortable boat, the Daphne (G3), and hike to the Sierra Negra volcano. This amazing adventure takes in many of South America s iconic highlights. Please see the following pages for further details of this trip s components, together with inclusions and any local payments: Amazon to the Andes (12 days, to ) page 54 Galápagos Western Islands (10 days, to ) page 75 Explore Peru s southern coast and its Andean Highlands, and see the floating islands of Lake Titicaca and the extraordinary Nazca Lines. From the soaring heights of the Inca Trail to a steamy jungle stay at an eco-friendly lodge, this epic journey combines an all-encompassing tour of Peru with four nights sailing in the Galápagos aboard the comfortable boat, the Daphne (G3). Please see the following pages for further details of this trip s components, together with inclusions and any local payments: Absolute Peru (21 days, to ) page 52 Galápagos Northern & Central Islands (7 days, to ) page 75 GAED07HB GAPA10HA GAPH07HB CALL TO BOOK 39

3 QUITO TO LA PAZ ADVENTURE La Paz Amazon Jungle Homestay ECUADOR Baños Cuenca Mancora Huanchaco Jan 06 Feb 09 May 23 Jun 26 Feb 07 Mar 13 Jun 03 Jul 07 Feb 24 Mar 30 Jun 14 Jul 18 Mar 01 Apr 04 Jun 29 Aug 02 Mar 19 Apr 22 Jul 05 Aug 08 Apr 05 May 09 Jul 14 Aug 17 Apr 22 May 26 Aug 09 Aug 12 May 04 Jun 07 Aug 26 Sep 29 May 19 Jun 22 Sep 12 Oct 16 PERU Machu Picchu Paracas Nazca Colca Canyon Discover beautiful colonial cities Experience traditional Amazonian life Soak in volcanic hot springs Tuck into ceviche by the Pacific coast Optional flight over the Nazca Lines Spot soaring condors at Colca Canyon Conquer the challenging Inca Trail Enjoy a homestay on Lake Titicaca Ollantaytambo Arequipa Sep 27 Oct 31 Oct 03 Nov 06 Oct 20 Nov 23 Nov 08 Dec 12 Nov 25 Dec 29 Dec 10 Jan 13 Dec 24 Jan 27 Dec 30 Feb 02 Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation: Simple hotels (23 nts), overnight buses (4 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (4 nts) Transport: Public bus, boat, motorised canoe, truck, train, hiking Meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASEQL My Own Room Available: Fr $449 You might like Shorten Your Trip to Adventure (15 days, to ) (GASEQM) see page 43 Fr $1,399 Extend Your Trip Great South American Journey (65 days, to Rio de Janeiro) (GASEQR) see pages Fr $7,399 Lake Titicaca La Paz Puno BOLIVIA This epic five-week journey through Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia gives you a chance to really discover what South America is all about. Discover the archaeology highlights and cultural treasures of the Andean highlands, look for tropical birds and native wildlife in the aweinspiring Amazon rainforest, and get your adrenalin pumping with any number of optional activities including mountain biking, whitewater rafting and surfing along the Pacific coast. Best of all, hike the magnificent Inca Trail to witness the sunrise over the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu - just one of many highlights on this amazing trip Arrive into Ecuador s capital today and head out to explore the city before meeting your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and your new travelling buddies this evening. has a high altitude location at 2,850m (9,348ft) above sea level (make sure you take it easy until you acclimatise), and sits in a valley flanked by mountains and several snow-capped volcanoes. Take a stroll around s beautiful Old Town, which is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, to admire its colonial buildings including the 16th Century cathedral and magnificent Compañía de Jésus Church. Its interior decoration is said to contain one and a half tons of gold and its construction took 170 years! Amazon Jungle Travel overland to Tena, one of the gateways to the Amazon, and transfer by truck and then by motorised canoe deep into the jungle. Trek through the beautiful rainforest to enjoy a threenight homestay at one of the authentic local communities here to appreciate the customs of the indigenous population, many of whom maintain a traditional lifestyle despite the encroachment of the 21st Century. Look out for native wildlife and plants on nature walks, and cast your eyes upwards into the forest canopy for glimpses of the tropical birds that call the jungle home. (3B, 3L, 3D) Baños Baños is one of the most popular resorts in Ecuador, thanks to its lush and verdant location in the mountains. It s a great place for adrenalin junkies, with any number of optional activities available such as hiking, rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking. Baños, not surprisingly, is derived from the word for baths, and you can choose from the thermal springs at the foot of Tungurahua Volcano or take a more refreshing dip in one of the pools formed from melting glacial waters. Locals swear by their restorative powers, and it s worth getting up early and grabbing a spot in one of the springs to watch the dawn creep over the mountains. Cuenca Ecuador s third-largest city, Cuenca, retains a laid-back provincial air with its colonial architecture, museums and art galleries. It is considered by many to be Ecuador s most beautiful city and it certainly has a long and chequered history dating back to Inca times when stonemasons from came here to build a showpiece city named Tomebamba. To the north of Cuenca, you can drive through some of Ecuador s most beautiful scenery to reach the important ruins of Ingapirca, which remain shrouded in mystery to this day. Also nearby, you ll find Cajas National Park, an area of stark terrain generally sitting above 4,000m (13,120ft) in the grassy highlands. It offers crystal-clear lakes, colourful birdlife and endless hiking possibilities. Mancora Cross into Peru via the busy border town of Huaquillas and travel down the Pan-American Highway towards the fishing town of Mancora, where there s time to hang out with the surfer dudes enjoying the relaxing beach atmosphere. Head south through the Sechuara Desert, one of the driest parts of the continent (despite the occasional torrential downpour brought on by El Niño). Next, head farther along the Pacific coastline to Trujillo, best known for its glorious colonial architecture and the nearby Chimu ruins of Chan-Chan. Continue by overnight bus on Day 11 to Huanchaco. Huanchaco Arrive into Huanchaco on the morning of Day 12, where the fishermen set sail in reed boats to keep the town s restaurants well stocked with delicious, fresh seafood. You have a full day in Huanchaco, so optional activities can include visiting pre-inca sites or just chilling out on the beach. You ll catch the overnight bus on Day 13 to. 40 VISIT

4 $3, S CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Why not add an optional theme pack to customise your trip? Peru Adrenalin Pack Fr $80 Whitewater rafting (, full day), Horseback riding (, half day). Peruvian Culinary Pack Fr $170 Learn the art of ceviche from a professional chef ( &, 2 x half days) Arrive into this morning, where you then have a full day to take in all the city s many attractions. was founded in 1535 and is known as the City of Kings. The heart of the old city is Plaza de Armas, where you ll find the Government Palace, Archbishop s Palace and the cathedral, which dates back to the 1700s. Take an optional city tour, or head to the wealthy coastal neighbourhood districts of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro, all of which offer a thriving café culture, cool cocktails and hot nightlife. Alternatively, you might like to visit the Museo Rafael Larco Herrera, which houses an impressive collection of pottery, mummies and textiles from the Paracas and Nazca cultures. Speaking of which... look where you re heading next! Paracas / Nazca Take the morning to explore more of before hopping on a bus down the coast to Paracas, whose lively pedestrian avenues hide plenty of little eateries where you can try a seafood ceviche best washed down with a glass of Pisco Sour - well, the port town of Pisco is just up the road, so it d be rude not to! From here, you can make an optional hop over to the Ballestas Islands to take a look at the sea lions and super-cute penguins, drawn north by the Humboldt Current along these shores. Travelling on to Nazca, stop to visit a winery at the oasis of Huacachina with time for some optional sandboarding. Nazca is home to some rather bizarre but fascinating lines which have been etched into the desert on a vast scale. Some of the lines stretch for up to 10km in length, whilst others resemble a range of animals which are best appreciated from the air. Sign yourself up for an optional flight over them to come up with your own theories, not just about what they depict but also why they re there at all. In the evening, take part in a traditional Pachamanca meal, where the food is cooked from hot rocks buried underground, before settling down on the night bus to Arequipa. (D) Arequipa / Colca Canyon You have a free day in Arequipa, which is Peru s second most important city after, and known as the White City due to the light coloured volcanic rock used to construct its buildings. The next day, marvel at El Misti Volcano which stands at an impressive 5,822m (19,096ft), before setting off for a tour to Colca Canyon, looking out for awesome Andean condors soaring overhead. If you like, take a dip in the hot springs or pay an optional visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina. Return to Arequipa to catch the night bus to. / Ollantaytambo Arriving off the night bus, you won t be disappointed by, where thousands of travellers come to experience its age-old culture, vibrant markets, fascinating museums and ancient Inca sites. If you want to get active, it s also a good place to try a spot of rafting, mountain biking or horse riding. You can climb up the hill to Sacsayhuamán (pronounced sexy woman ) or browse the markets. Travel through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo where you ll stay the night before you embark on the Inca Trail. The town s major Inca ruin site should give you an enjoyable flavour of what lies ahead. Inca Trail You planned your trip around it, and now the time has come to tackle the iconic Inca Trail. It starts at Km 82 and over the next few days you ll cover around 44kms (27 miles), crossing no fewer than three high passes. Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman s Pass, is the highest - at 4,198m (13,769ft). This challenging but highly rewarding trek is filled with beautiful cloud forest and original Inca constructions including a causeway and tunnel. Take time to absorb its beauty while your porters race ahead to set up camp. Keep your cameras charged for the final day as you reach the Sun Gate to witness sunrise over Machu Picchu - enchanting and epic! Wander around with your guide before heading back to to rest, shower and celebrate. (3B, 3L, 3D) Puno / Lake Titicaca You ll travel by bus through the stunning altiplano region to Puno. Spend the night here, before taking a boat trip to Tequile Island for lunch in a local restaurant and a spot of shopping in the local weaving co-operative. See the famous floating islands of Uros, constructed from multiple layers of reeds, and then step into rural life with a village homestay. Take in the extensive views of the lake and enjoy spectacular sunsets, starry skies and a traditional evening of dinner and dancing. You ll get a true feel for life on Lake Titicaca. (B, L, D) La Paz Cross the border into Bolivia and climb up to La Paz, the world s highest city. You can explore to your heart s content and spend the last night out with your group. On Day 35, it s time to bid farewell to your group as your tour comes to an end in La Paz. CALL TO BOOK 41

5 ANDEAN DISCOVERY La Paz $2, S Savour the Peruvian national drink Create a theory for the Nazca Lines See the White City of Arequipa Spot condors in the Colca Canyon Discover the charms of colonial Conquer the ancient Inca Trail Wait for sunrise over Machu Picchu Stay with the locals on Lake Titicaca Jan 05 Jan 25 Jan 20 Feb 09 Feb 21 Mar 13 Mar 10 Mar 30 Mar 15 Apr 04 Mar 25 Apr 14 Apr 02 Apr 22 Apr 11 May 01 Apr 19 May 09 Apr 27 May 17 May 06 May 26 May 11 May 31 May 18 Jun 07 May 24 Jun 13 PERU Paracas Nazca Machu Picchu Colca Canyon Jun 02 Jun 22 Jun 06 Jun 26 Jun 17 Jul 07 Jun 28 Jul 18 Jul 08 Jul 28 Jul 13 Aug 02 Jul 19 Aug 08 Jul 28 Aug 17 Aug 03 Aug 23 Aug 08 Aug 28 Aug 13 Sep 02 Aug 23 Sep 12 Arequipa Ollantaytambo Puno Lake Titicaca La Paz Sep 09 Sep 29 Sep 22 Oct 12 Sep 26 Oct 16 Oct 11 Oct 31 Oct 17 Nov 06 Oct 27 Nov 16 Nov 03 Nov 23 Nov 22 Dec 12 Nov 29 Dec 19 Dec 09 Dec 29 Dec 13 Jan 02 Dec 24 Jan 13 Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation: Simple hotels (14 nts), overnight bus (2 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, train, hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAJML My Own Room Available: Fr $349 You might like BOLIVIA Go In Reverse Andean Discovery (La Paz to ) (21 days, GAJLM) Fr $2,449 Extend Your Trip to Buenos Aires Adventure (35 days, GASPMB) page 24 Fr $3,699 Customise Your Trip Peru Adrenalin Pack Fr $80 Active, awe-inspiring and absolutely amazing pretty much sums up this three-week adventure. Ponder the mysteries of the Nazca Lines, admire soaring condors in the Colca Canyon and hang out with the locals on Lake Titicaca before getting back to nature hiking the world-famous Inca Trail. You ll be thrown into a world of culture so fascinating that you ll be examining your return ticket s change policy. Climb higher, go further and push your boundaries on this great trip, which has to be way up there (about 4,000m in parts!) on anyone s ultimate list of destinations Arrive, relax and explore the various neighbourhoods that make up Peru s vibrant capital city. Paracas / Nazca Take the morning to explore more of before hopping on a bus for the short trip down the coast to Paracas, whose lively pedestrian avenues hide plenty of places to try a traditional ceviche. From here, you have the option to visit the Ballestas Islands to observe sea lions and Humboldt penguins. As you travel on to Nazca, en route you ll stop to visit a winery at the oasis of Huacachina and enjoy time for optional sandboarding. Nazca is home to some rather bizarre but fascinating lines or geoglyphs drawn into the desert on a vast scale. Some resemble animals ranging from hummingbirds to spiders, monkeys and fish (time to turn on your creative imaginations). Fertility symbols, giant agricultural calendars and spaceship landing areas are just some of the varied explanations for their existence. Take an optional flight over them to see what you think. In the evening, take part in a traditional Pachamanca meal (cooked underground) before catching the night bus to Arequipa. (D) Arequipa / Colca Canyon You have a free day in Arequipa, also known as the White City due to the light coloured volcanic rock used in its construction. The next day, marvel at El Misti Volcano and then set off for a guided tour to Colca Canyon, looking out for awesome Andean condors soaring overhead. If you like, take a dip in the hot springs or pay an optional visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina. Drive back to Arequipa before taking the night bus to. / Ollantaytambo Arriving off the night bus, you won t be disappointed by ; one of Peru s most attractive cities. There are some great museums, churches and Inca sites to check out. Or, if you want to get your adrenalin pumping then head off river rafting, mountain biking or horse riding. You can climb up the hill to Sacsayhuamán (pronounced sexy woman ) or mill around the markets. Travel through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo where you ll stay the night before you embark on the Inca Trail. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu This is it. The time has come for the hike you ve wanted to do your whole life, and it starts today at Km 82. Over the next few days you ll cover around 44kms (27 miles), crossing no fewer than three high passes. Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman s Pass, is the highest - standing at 4,198m (13,769ft). But to keep your mind off the trek the route is filled with beautiful cloud forest and original Inca constructions such as a causeway and tunnel. Take time to absorb it all while your porters race ahead to set up camp. Keep your cameras charged for the final day as you head up to the Sun Gate for sunrise over Machu Picchu - enchanting and epic! Wander around with your guide before heading back to to rest, shower and celebrate. (3B, 3L, 3D) Puno / Lake Titicaca You ll travel by bus through the stunning altiplano region to Puno. From here, you ll take a boat trip to visit the floating Islands of Uros before immersing yourself in Peruvian rural life with a homestay in a small village. Take in the extensive views of the lake and enjoy spectacular sunsets, starry skies and a traditional evening of dinner and dancing. You ll get a true feel for life on Lake Titicaca. (B, L, D) La Paz Cross the border into Bolivia and ascend to La Paz, the highest city in the world. You can explore to your heart s content and spend the last night out with your group. Oxygen bar, anyone? On Day 21, it s time to say goodbye and head home or embark on further adventures across South America. 42 VISIT

6 QUITO TO LIMA ADVENTURE $1, S Explore the colonial charms of Meet locals on an Amazon homestay Enjoy a thermal soak in Baños See snow-capped towering volcanoes Take a hike in Cajas National Park Chill out on Pacific Coast beaches Go surfing in Mancora and Huanchaco Tuck into s speciality - ceviche Jan 06 Jan 20 Feb 07 Feb 21 Feb 24 Mar 10 Mar 01 Mar 15 Mar 19 Apr 02 Apr 05 Apr 19 Apr 22 May 06 May 04 May 18 May 19 Jun 02 Mancora Huanchaco ECUADOR Baños Cuenca May 23 Jun 06 Jun 03 Jun 17 Jun 14 Jun 28 Jun 29 Jul 13 Jul 05 Jul 19 Jul 14 Jul 28 Aug 09 Aug 23 Aug 26 Sep 09 Sep 12 Sep 26 Amazon Jungle Homestay PERU Sep 27 Oct 11 Oct 03 Oct 17 Oct 20 Nov 03 Nov 08 Nov 22 Nov 25 Dec 09 Dec 10 Dec 24 Dec 24 Jan 07 Dec 30 Jan 13 Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation: Simple hotels (9 nts), overnight bus (2 nts), jungle homestay (3 nts) Transport: Public bus, boat, motorised canoe, truck Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASEQM My Own Room Available: Fr $149 You might like Extend Your Trip to La Paz Adventure (35 days, to La Paz) (GASEQL) see pages Fr $3,799 Great South American Journey (65 days, to Rio de Janeiro) (GASEQR) see pages Fr $7,399 Discover the best of Ecuador and Peru as you explore the Amazon and Pacific Coast on this 15-day adventure from to. Explore pre-inca ruins, walk the colonial streets and get an introduction to the Amazon Rainforest and its indigenous people with three days in a jungle community. Tear it up on mountain bikes, raft wild rivers, catch a few big waves and get your adrenalin pumping on exciting optional activities. You ll also have plenty of free time to explore these remarkable countries at your own pace, so that you can create your own perfect adventure Arrive into Ecuador s capital at any time today, before meeting your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and the rest of your group this evening. is located at 2,850m (9,348ft) above sea level, so take it easy until you adjust to the altitude - we recommend a stroll around the beautiful Old Town admiring colonial buildings such as the magnificent Compañía de Jésus Church, adorned with gold. Amazon Jungle Travel overland to Tena on the edge of the Amazon, before transferring by truck and motorised canoe deep into the jungle. Trek through the rainforest to one of a number of local communities to enjoy a three-night homestay to learn about the lifestyle of the indigenous population. For some, their traditional homelands are threatened by the encroachment of industry and cash-crop farming, but here the rainforest is home to a staggering amount of biodiversity. Spot wildlife and native plant species on nature walks, and look up into the tree canopy for glimpses of beautiful birds. (3B, 3L, 3D) Baños Time to get active in the delightfully green mountain resort of Baños, where adrenalin junkies can enjoy optional activities such as hiking, rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking. Baños takes its name from baths, and you can choose from the thermal springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano ( little hell ) or take a cooler dip in one of the meltwater pools from the volcano s glaciated flanks. Cuenca Ecuador s third-largest city retains a laid-back atmosphere, and few visitors can resist the charms of its colonial architecture, flower markets and shady plazas. To the north of Cuenca, the Inca ruins of Ingapirca remain shrouded in mystery and the drive to reach the site takes you through some of Ecuador s most beautiful scenery. Cajas National Park, also nearby, is an area of stark terrain, crystal-clear lakes and hiking trails sitting above 4,000m (13,120ft) in the grassy highlands. Mancora / Huanchaco Cross into Peru via the busy border town of Huaquillas (an experience you won t forget in a hurry!) and travel down the Pan-American Highway towards the fishing and surf town of Mancora, where there s time to enjoy its relaxing beach atmosphere. Head south through the Sechuara Desert and along the Pacific coastline to Trujillo, the largest city in northern Peru. Trujillo is best known for its beautiful colonial buildings and the nearby Chimu ruins of Chan-Chan. Continue by overnight bus on Day 11 to Huanchaco, where the fishermen s boats are constructed from buoyant reeds. Huanchaco / Full day in Huanchaco, where optional activities can include visiting pre-inca sites or just chilling with a bit of beach time. Catch the overnight bus on Day 13 to, where you then have a full day to take in the sites. was founded in 1535 and, to grab a feel for its colonial history, you can take an optional city tour or jump in a cab to the Plaza de Armas. This is the heart of old and where you can see the spectacle of the changing of the palace guard. The more affluent coastal districts of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro offer a great café culture and some funky nightlife options. They re good places to head if you want to try a seafood ceviche, where the fish is cooked by letting it marinate in acidic lime or other citrus juices. We think a Pisco Sour is the perfect accompaniment. The trip comes to an end today in, but there are plenty of tours you can join if you wish to continue your discovery. In fact, this is just the first leg of our amazing Great South American Journey which will take you all the way to Rio de Janeiro if you have another 50 days to spare! CALL TO BOOK 43

7 INCA EMPIRE La Paz $2, S Discover the colonial charms of Visit a women s weaving co-operative Trek the beautiful and iconic Inca Trail Marvel at Machu Picchu s majesty Cruise Lake Titicaca to floating islands Be immersed in a Peruvian homestay Explore the pre-incan Tiahuanaco ruins Adapt to the high altitude in La Paz PERU Jan 03 Jan 17 Jan 20 Feb 03 Mar 14 Mar 28 Mar 21 Apr 04 Apr 14 Apr 28 Apr 21 May 05 May 17 May 31 Machu Picchu May 30 Jun 13 Jun 15 Jun 29 Jul 05 Jul 19 Jul 18 Aug 01 Aug 10 Aug 24 Aug 29 Sep 12 Sep 07 Sep 21 Ollantaytambo Puno BOLIVIA Lake Titicaca Sep 28 Oct 10 Oct 25 Nov 08 Oct 31 Nov 14 Nov 06 Nov 20 Nov 22 Dec 06 Dec 05 Dec 19 Dec 16 Dec 30 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, plane, train, boat, ferry, hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, specialist guide on Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAPIML My Own Room Available: Fr $449 You might like La Paz Go In Reverse Inca Empire (La Paz to ) (GABILM) Fr $2,599 Why not add an optional theme pack to customise your trip? Peru Adrenalin Pack Fr $80 Whitewater rafting (, full day), Horseback riding (, half day). From the Incan culture high in the Andes to the bustling market-filled streets of La Paz, this two-week adventure provides a glimpse of Bolivia and a panoramic view of Peru. Embrace cultures past and present in and La Paz, and interact with locals from the region s communities for moments that few rarely get to experience. Conquer the Inca Trail, one of the world s best-known and most challenging hikes, and experience the stunning views of majestic Machu Picchu. This trip offers the perfect combination of history, scenery, culture and rewarding physical challenges... bring it on! Arrive into Peru s lively capital city at any time today. Perhaps head out to explore some of its vibrant neighbourhoods and sample your first Pisco Sour cocktail before meeting the rest of your group. Rise and shine early this morning for a flight to, where the well-worn cobblestone streets and numerous churches and museums await your discovery, as do the city s selection of restaurants, many of which offer modern twists on traditional Peruvian cuisine. You have a free day to soak up the city s cosmopolitan atmosphere, browse the markets, or sign up for an optional city tour. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Today is a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley and the Inca ruins at Ollantaytambo. On your way through the Sacred Valley, you ll become familiar with Peruvian wildlife, meeting llamas, alpacas and vicuñas a-plenty. You ll pause at interesting Inca sites and visit a Planeterra-supported weaving project in a local community; a great place to buy one-of-a-kind souvenirs directly from the ladies who make them. You ll arrive into picturesque Ollantaytambo, where it s best to get a good night s rest in preparation for the trek that starts tomorrow. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu At Km 82, we have lift off! But while the porters will speed on ahead with their super-human strength, you ll take it slow, soaking up the scenery and pausing to check out the Inca sites along the way. Rolling into camp each night, you ll be greeted by some truly exceptional food, considering you re almost 4kms up into the sky! On the last day, you ll arrive at the Sun Gate for a spectacular sunrise over magical Machu Picchu. As the morning mist fades, the Inca site will reveal itself before you. There s time to climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before retuning to where you can head out to celebrate with the group or dive into a hot shower! (3B, 3L, 3D) Free day to enjoy optional activities such as whitewater rafting, horse riding and mountain biking. Puno Travel by bus through the altiplano to Puno, which sits on the shore of Lake Titicaca. it s a long trip but the spectacular scenery provides more than ample reward. Lake Titicaca / Taquile Island Take a boat trip to the floating islands of Uros before immersing yourself in Peruvian rural life with a homestay in a small village. It s a great way to learn about, and participate in, the local traditions. There s also the option to visit the Sillustrani burial site. (B, L, D) La Paz / Tiahuanaco Travelling once again by bus, cross the border into Bolivia and make a beeline for La Paz, one of the highest cities in the world. Check out the hustle and bustle of the markets, great for people watching as well as picking up some unmissable souvenirs. On Day 14, you ll spend the day visiting the fantastic pre-incan ruins of Tiahuanaco, where the mysterious Tiahuanaco people constructed a great ceremonial centre on the southern shore of Lake Titicaca over 1,000 years ago. La Paz Depart La Paz at any time today and head home or off on your next Latin American adventure. 44 VISIT

8 PERU TOP 5 MUST-DO s 1. HIKE THE INCA TRAIL - OBVIOUSLY! 2. EXPLORE CUZCO S COLONIAL PAST 3. SEE DAWN BREAK AT MACHU PICCHU 4. LOOK FOR UNIQUE AMAZON WILDLIFE 5. FLY OVER THE NAZCA LINES IQUITOS / AMAZON TARAPOTO LIMA PUERTO MALDONADO / AMAZO MACHU PICCHU NAZCA CUZCO COLCA CANYON

9 TREK PERU Peru is one of the best places in the world to seek out some serious trekking experiences. The highlight of the treks being of course the Inca Trail to the Lost City of Machu Picchu. In 2011 it celebrated its 100 year anniversary since its rediscovery by American archaeologist Hiram Bingham. As well as the ancient Inca Trail we offer a variety of other outstanding treks in the area, all providing incredible experiences high up in the Andes. inca trail The Inca Trail is an epic once-in-alifetime adventure that culminates in the enchanting and mysterious Lost City of the Incas: Machu Picchu. It s a challenge that features on most do before I die lists and it s easy to see why. Over four days you will cover 27 miles (43kms) and climb to a maximum height of 4,200m (13,776 feet). The trail combines jaw-dropping mountain scenery, lush cloudforest, sub-tropical jungle, a mix of Inca ruins and beautiful flora and fauna. On the last morning you ll enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, in time for sunrise and to see the magical Inca site appear through the morning mist. book early! As a way to preserve the ancient trail and site of Machu Picchu, the Peruvian government has strict regulations for the flow of travellers, so it s best to book early - we recommend at least three months in advance. Reservations cannot be held on the trail and all permits must be bought in advance with complete and correct passport information. What you need to book Full name (exactly as per passport) Date of birth Passport number Nationality Date of passport expiry outstanding alternatives If you ve left it too late for a permit, want a trek with a difference or want to see Machu Picchu by train, check out our other options on pages 49, 53, 58, 59 & 64. machu picchu - other options For if you ve left it too late to secure a permit for the Inca Trail (or feel that the trek might be a little strenuous): Inca Discovery - Lares An amazing three-day trek ending with a train ride & guided tour of Machu Picchu. Choquequirao - challenging 8-day trek from to Aguas Calientes. Salkantay Trek - 4-day route through spectacular mountain scenery. Huayhuash Circuit - challenging 8-day trek through high altitudes. On all G Adventures tours that include the Inca Trail, you can also opt to stay in & visit Machu Picchu by train. 46 VISIT

10 THE INCA TRAIL $1,149 7 S Stroll the colonial streets of Breathe in the crisp mountain air Explore s choice of museums Haggle at the local markets Guided tour of the Sacred Valley Conquer the world-famous Inca Trail Camp under the cloud forest s stars Watch dawn break over Machu Picchu Jan Feb Mar - Dec Machu Picchu PERU Usually daily You might like Selected dates, typically twice weekly Usually daily Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (3 nts), camping (3nts) Transport: Train, van, hiking Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Local representative in, specialist CEO on Inca Trail Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASPIT My Own Room Available: Fr $149 Ollantaytambo Lake Titicaca Add on a Volunteer Project Volunteer Kids - help the staff at a voluntary support centre for children from under-privileged families (14 days, GATSPJMN) Fr $799 One of the most popular trips in Peru for those looking to combine the cultural highlights of and the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world s best-known hiking trails. The four-day Inca Trail rewards with a stunning combination of the region s ruins, mountainscapes and cloud forests. Porters run on ahead to set up camp each night, leaving you carrying only your daypack and free to enjoy the beauty all around. At the end of the Inca Trail lies the breathtaking Machu Picchu, whose steep terraces and dramatic ruins were all but hidden from the outside world until their rediscovery in Arrive into the city of, and go for a look around before attending a welcome briefing about the week ahead. You ll find the town buzzing with travellers from all over the world preparing for the Inca Trail and those recently returned from treks. Those who take time to explore will be well rewarded as this is the continent s oldest continuously inhabited city, steeped in history, tradition and legend. Wander the cobblestone streets packed with old colonial buildings and lap up the city s surprisingly cosmopolitan atmosphere. There are plenty of museums that will give you a great introduction to the area s colonial and Inca past, which can be further explored at the ruins of the Coricancha, once the Inca Empire s richest temple and literally covered with gold. Be aware that sits at an elevation of around 3,400m (11,200ft), so take it easy on your first day until you acclimatise to the altitude. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Head out for a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo. The Sacred Valley is a lush agricultural region that was an important food source for the Inca and still to this day supplies much of the fresh produce used in. There will be many Inca ruins along the way, including the impressive Pisac which you ll visit, set amidst some stunning scenery and well populated by a curious llama or two. You ll visit a Planeterra women s weaving co-operative in a local community where you can pick up some beautiful textile souvenirs and, on market days, further colourful shopping opportunities. Arrive into pretty Ollantaytambo, your first taste of what lies ahead on the Inca Trail. The town and fortress of Ollantaytambo are strategically sited overlooking the Urubamba River Valley, and this major ruin site is a great surviving example of Inca urban planning and engineering. Spend the night in Ollantaytambo, ahead of tomorrow s adventure. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Physically challenging but supremely rewarding, the world-famous Inca Trail is a four-day hike within the ability of most people with a reasonable level of fitness. Totalling 44km (27 miles) in length, and reaching a maximum elevation of 4,200m (13,776ft), you ll hike over mountain passes, through cloud forest and past incredible Inca constructions, including an original causeway and tunnel. This trek will leave you in awe of the ancient civilisation and of the spectacular scenery all around. You ll start at Km 82, passing several smaller ruin sites, the first of which is Llactapata. The second day climbs the long, steep path to Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman s Pass, the highest point on the trek. Crossing the next pass, at just under 4,000m (13,113ft) you can enjoy superb views of the snowcapped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Soon you reach the serene ruins of Phuyupatamarca, or the Town Above the Clouds - you ll either camp here or another 90 minutes farther along close to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna ( Forever Young ), with its grandiose terraced hillside setting. Hiking boots and woolly alpaca hats may not be the height of fashion at home, but here they re standard issue - it can get quite chilly at night and you should be prepared for the odd shower along the way. A team of local porters who speed ahead will make sure you re fed and watered and camp is set up each evening. On the last morning, you ll climb the steps to Intipunku, the Sun Gate, to catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu through the rising morning mist. When you consider its worldwide fame today, it s extraordinary to think that not once was it mentioned in the chronicles of the Spanish conquistadors, and archaeologists are still divided over its function. There s time to tour the famous Inca ruin, climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before catching the train back to, the city of civilisation and hot showers! (3B, 3L, 3D) Depart at any time today, or stick around for a few days more to check out s adrenalin-packed options. Horse riding, mountain biking and river rafting are just some of the activities at hand. CALL TO BOOK 47

11 INCA DISCOVERY $1,399 8 S Explore s Inca and colonial past Wander through the Sacred Valley Visit a local weaving co-operative Kit your wardrobe with woolly hats View incredible Andean landscapes Conquer the Inca Trail s high passes Arrive at the Sun Gate for sunrise Explore breathtaking Machu Picchu Jan Feb Mar - Dec PERU Usually daily You might like Selected dates, typically twice weekly Usually daily Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (4 nts), camping (3 nts) Transport: Plane, train, van, hiking Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Local representatives in &, specialist CEO on Inca Trail Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAPID My Own Room Available: Fr $199 Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Start & finish in Inca Discovery Plus (9 days, to, GAPIM) Fr $1,599 Peruvian Culinary Pack Learn the art of ceviche from a professional chef ( &, 2 x half days). Fr $170 If your aim is to challenge yourself with an epic hike that will unfold a tale of an ancient civilisation and incredible constructions, which although hidden for centuries have stood the test of time, then this is the trip for you. Time in will allow you acclimatise to the Andean altitude and give you an opportunity to explore its colonial past. A tour through the Sacred Valley will bring you face-to-face with local life at a women s weaving co-operative and a chance to purchase quality souvenirs. But it s the Inca Trail you ve come for, so let nothing distract you from the amazing journey ahead Arrive into and get out exploring this underestimated city, with its colourful neighbourhoods and charming colonial centre. In the evening, you ll meet the rest of your tour group, so why not head out with them to sample some Peruvian cuisine including refreshing ceviche, a citrus-marinated seafood dish? Wash it all down with Peru s famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour. Its ingredients - locallyproduced grape brandy and egg white - may not sell it, but trust us, it tastes good and it will probably be the first of many! Don t drink too much though, it s an early start in the morning. You ll fly from to the sophisticated colonial city of over the Andes Mountains, taking in the spectacular views. sits at an elevation of 3,400m (11,200ft), so acclimatise yourself with a coca tea overlooking the beautiful architecture of the main square. Head to the markets and pick up that Peruvian jumper you ve always wanted and as many alpaca woolly hats as you have friends back home. Poke your nose into the museums and churches and try some authentic Peruvian food - guinea pig and one of the 3,000 varieties of potato that are grown in and around the Andes. If time permits, you can head out of town on a biking, horse riding or an action-packed river rafting trip. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Today is a full-day guided tour through the Sacred Valley and on to the Ollantaytambo ruins. You ll uncover hidden mysteries at ancient Inca sites, getting you excited for the big journey ahead. You ll visit a Planeterra weaving project in a local community, where you can buy quality textiles direct from the women who ve made them. Working your way along the route of the Urubamba River amid the lush agricultural backdrop, there will be more shopping opportunities at the local Pisac market before winding up in pretty Ollantaytambo. The town and fortress of Ollantaytambo have a strategic location overlooking the Urubamba River Valley, and this major ruin site is a well-preserved example of the ingenuity and engineering ability of the Inca. Ollantaytambo is a relatively quiet town and it s best to spend the evening relaxing ahead of tomorrow s epic adventure. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu This once-in-a-lifetime journey will cover spectacular scenery and fill your head to the brim with facts that bring the Incas to life. The views and complexity of the Inca constructions are mesmerising and it will all help to keep your mind focused on the long walk to Machu Picchu. You ll move from high plateaux to dense cloud forest, crossing over three high passes with the most challenging, known as Dead Woman s Pass, standing at a dizzy height of 4,200m. Your local porters will race ahead to create a camp complete with coca tea and nourishing food to keep your strength up, allowing you to walk the trail with just your daypack filled with essentials. Along the way, pause at beautifully-sited ruins such as Llactapata and Phuyupatamarca, and pass through original Inca constructions including a causeway and tunnel. On the final day, it s a relatively short walk and then a climb up the steps to Intipunku, the Sun Gate, to watch sunrise over Machu Picchu. The magical sight of these mysterious ruins and perfectly-engineered terraces will take your breath away. Its existence was known for centuries to the indigenous population, but it was not until a local boy led the American explorer, Hiram Bingham, to the site in 1911 that its fame started to spread into the outside world. You can walk around Machu Picchu and even climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before catching the train back to. At last, it s time to put your feet up. (3B, 3L 3D) This tour is done, but you may not be. Why not volunteer with some under-privileged kids in, or head into the Amazon Jungle to spot some fascinating creatures? Peru and South America has plenty more to offer, the only question is just what to do first. 48 VISIT

12 INCA DISCOVERY LARES TREK BACKROADS & $1,399 HIGHLANDS OF PERU $1,749 8 S 17 S Enjoy magnificent Andean vistas along this less-trodden route Feel welcomed by the warm Quechua people along the way See Machu Picchu appear as the early morning mist rises Discover stunning mountains and remote cities few tourists visit Mingle with the locals while travelling on public buses Conquer the legendary Inca Trail to iconic Machu Picchu Arrive into Peru s capital today and head out to discover its charms. An early start today to fly over the Andes to where you ll be transferred to your hotel. A city steeped in history, has a lot to offer travellers so pop on some comfortable shoes, arm yourself with a city map and immerse yourself in a city full of tradition and legend. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Spend today on a guided tour of Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley. Visit the impressive Pisac ruins and a colourful artisan market for a spot of shopping. Your trip includes a visit to a Planeterra weaving project before finishing up in picturesque Ollantaytambo / Huacayo Arrive in at any time. Head off the beaten track on Day 2 and jump on board a bus into the Andes to the bustling city of Huancayo. Once all checked in, try one of the optional activities. Hike around unusual rock formations, cruise along on a bike, jump in the saddle or kick back, relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. Huancavelica / Ayacucho Travel to Huancavelica and arrive in Santa Inés in time to sample some high altitude nightlife. Opt to explore the mines, wander the markets or bathe in the natural thermal springs. On Day 5, head through the highlands to Ayacucho, with its colonial feel and local pre-inca history. Explore at your own leisure; discover archaeological sites and browse the handicrafts district for exquisite gifts Lares Trek / Aguas Calientes Over the next three days spend your time hiking incredible mountains dotted with rural villages on this guided Lares trek to Ollantaytambo. Get your camera ready for some stunning views and spot llamas and alpacas as well as other Andean flora and fauna. You ll also receive a warm welcome from the Quechua people, whose homeland you ll have the rare opportunity to see first-hand. After your hike, you jump on a train for an incredibly scenic ride to Agua Calientes. (3B, 3L, 2D) The early morning light offers the best time to view the Lost City of the Incas so it s up at the crack of dawn and off to Machu Picchu. You have free time after the tour to explore on your own and the opportunity to climb Wayna Picchu for a more exclusive view point. Return by train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy and be transferred to, from where you can depart at any time on Day Andahuaylas Pass through some of Peru s poorest and rural areas on this incredible journey to Andahuaylas, set amidst a beautiful glacial valley. Visit the Sondor archaeological site and the Pacucha Lagoon. / Ollantaytambo Unwind and acclimatise in the colonial city of. Step back in time as you explore the Sacred Valley or opt for thundering rapids on a whitewater rafting trip. On Day 12, head to the Inca ruin site of Ollantaytambo to browse shops and explore narrow cobbled streets. Inca Trail / Machu Picchu / Grab your walking boots for your four-day guided Inca Trail hike. Take in its rich culture and breathtaking views from high plateaux to dense cloud forest. Finish at Machu Picchu and opt to visit the Inca Bridge before returning to. Your tour ends on Day 17. (3B, 3L, 3D) Mar 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 Apr 04 Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 23 Apr 30 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 Jun 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun 27 Jul 11 Jul 18 Jul 25 Aug 01 Aug 08 Aug 15 Aug 22 Aug 29 Sep 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 26 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 24 Oct 31 Nov 07 Nov 14 Nov 21 Nov 28 Dec 05 Dec 12 Dec 19 Dec 26 PERU Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Lares Lake Titicaca Mar 09 Mar 25 Apr 06 Apr 22 May 11 May 27 Jun 08 Jun 24 Jul 13 Jul 29 Aug 10 Aug 26 Sep 07 Sep 23 Oct 05 Oct 21 Nov 02 Nov 18 Nov 30 Dec 16 Dec 21 Jan 06 PERU Huancayo Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Huancavelica Ayacucho Andahuaylas My Own Room Available: Fr $199 My Own Room Available: Fr $199 Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (5 nts), camping (2 nts) Transport: Plane, train, van, hiking Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Local representatives in &, specialist CEO on Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAPIL Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any Accommodation: Simple Hotels (13 nts), camping (3 nts) Transport: Public bus, private van, hiking Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 8 Tour Code: GASPBH CALL TO BOOK 49

13 PERU ON A SHOESTRING $1, S Discover Peru s capital, View the mysterious Nazca Lines Enjoy a traditional Pachamanca dinner Explore the beautiful city of Arequipa Wander s cobbled streets Buy textiles at a weaving co-operative Stay with locals in the Sacred Valley Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Jan 04 Jan 18 Jan 11 Jan 25 Jan 18 Feb 01 Feb 16 Mar 02 Feb 23 Mar 09 Mar 02 Mar 16 Mar 09 Mar 23 Mar 22 Apr 05 Mar 30 Apr 13 Apr 13 Apr 27 Apr 20 May 04 Apr 26 May 10 May 04 May 18 May 18 Jun 01 May 25 Jun 08 PERU Nazca Jun 01 Jun 15 Jun 08 Jun 22 Jun 15 Jun 29 Jun 22 Jul 06 Jun 29 Jul 13 Jul 06 Jul 20 Jul 13 Jul 27 Jul 20 Aug 03 Jul 27 Aug 10 Aug 03 Aug 17 Aug 10 Aug 24 Aug 17 Aug 31 Aug 24 Sep 07 Aug 31 Sep 14 Sep 07 Sep 21 Machu Picchu Colca Canyon Ollantaytambo Arequipa Sep 14 Sep 28 Sep 21 Oct 05 Sep 28 Oct 12 Oct 05 Oct 19 Oct 19 Nov 02 Oct 26 Nov 09 Nov 02 Nov 16 Nov 09 Nov 23 Nov 16 Nov 30 Nov 23 Dec 07 Nov 30 Dec 14 Dec 07 Dec 21 Dec 14 Dec 28 Dec 21 Jan 04 Dec 28 Jan 11 Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation: Simple hotels (8 nts, possibly multishare), overnight buses (2 nts), homestay (1 nt), camping (3 nts) Transport: Public bus, train, hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASPPS My Own Room Available: Fr $169 You might like Learn Spanish in Make the most of your time in Peru and learn the language, studying by the beach (1-48 weeks) see page 61 Fr $530 This is a trip that s packed with all the essentials - 15 days of maximum Peru at minimum cost. The Nazca Lines provide a little mystery and Colca Canyon provides the wow factor. There s enough time to soak up the delights of before a little added extra that not every visitor to Peru gets to experience - a homestay in the Sacred Valley. After meeting the locals, your next mission (should you choose to accept it) is the Inca Trail. There are more activities in store back in, all you need is the energy to keep going. This is everything you imagined Peru would be - and more! Roll up, check in, get out and explore Peru s bustling capital city. Wander downtown to catch the colonial style buildings and see the Changing of the Guard, before meeting your group this evening. Nazca Travel by bus to Nazca where the mysterious Nazca Lines are etched into the desert landscape. Some of these giant lines and symbols resemble animals ranging from hummingbirds to spiders, monkeys and fish. Fertility symbols, astronomical calendars and even spaceship landing areas are just some of the varied explanations for their existence. You can take an optional flight here if you fancy getting a bird s-eye view. Other optional activities include a spot of sandboarding to get the adrenalin pumping. In the evening, you ll partake in a traditional Pachamanca dinner where a variety of delicious treats are wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked with pre-heated rocks buried in the ground. On the evening of Day 3 you ll board an overnight bus to Arequipa. (D) Arequipa Arrive with the sunshine into Arequipa, a beautifully white city that s surrounded by the Andes and set in the shadow of the El Misti Volcano. Spread your wings like the Colca Canyon s resident condors and take an overnight trip to explore its dark deceptive depths. The mountain biking and rafting is great around here, or if you just want to roam the city then join a city tour and explore the museums and the Santa Catalina Convent. On Day 6, board an overnight bus bound for. This is a city that ll impress you with its pretty combination of colonial and Inca-inspired architecture. Check out the markets, artisan-style shops and tuck into some local treats - try roast guinea pig or see if you can taste the difference between Peru s 3,000 potato varieties! Ccacaccollo Community You ll travel by bus into the Sacred Valley, to the community of Ccacaccollo. Here, our partners at Planeterra support a women s weaving co-operative which you ll visit. You ll meet the women and learn about the various stages of the weaving process; from hand-spinning the wool, dying the wool using natural dyes and participating in a weaving demo. Overnight in a family homestay giving you time to engage with the community, and perhaps learn a few words from the Quechua language. (D) Ollantaytambo Travel through the Sacred Valley to the quaint tongue-twister town of Ollantaytambo. There s the chance to take a tour through the Urubamba River Valley where there will be plenty of alpacas to befriend and fascinating Inca ruins to explore all a little teaser for the Inca Trail ahead. (B) Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Get your hiking boots laced up for an epic trek along one of the most revered trails in the world, hiking 44km (27 miles) over the next four days. With your porters taking care of all the hard work, your attention can be focused on enjoying the trek and inhaling the insanity of the superb views with your fellow companions. Having scaled high passes, on your last day you will arrive at the gateway to Machu Picchu, to greet the Inca world. If your legs will carry you any further then there s the option to climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before returning to. (3B, 3L, 3D) Today is a chance to chill out or party hard in the aftermath of the Inca Trail. If you ve got any energy left, there s the option to go mountain biking, rafting or horse riding. On Day 15, depart at any time. 50 VISIT

14 INCA HEARTLAND La Paz $2, S Watch condors soar at Colca Canyon Trek the challenging Inca Trail Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu Live like a local on Lake Titicaca Stay in the world s highest city, La Paz Solve the secrets of the Nazca Lines Explore the verdant Sacred Valley Embrace Inca culture past and present Paracas Jan 04 Jan 24 Jan 11 Jan 31 Jan 14 Feb 03 Jan 18 Feb 07 Feb 01 Feb 21 Feb 08 Feb 28 Feb 22 Mar 14 Mar 01 Mar 21 Mar 08 Mar 28 Mar 15 Apr 04 Mar 29 Apr 18 Apr 08 Apr 28 Apr 12 May 02 Apr 15 May 05 Apr 24 May 14 May 03 May 23 May 11 May 31 May 24 Jun 13 May 31 Jun 20 PERU Nazca Machu Picchu Jun 09 Jun 29 Jun 14 Jul 04 Jun 21 Jul 11 Jun 23 Jul 13 Jun 29 Jul 19 Jul 06 Jul 26 Jul 12 Aug 01 Jul 19 Aug 08 Jul 22 Aug 12 Jul 25 Aug 14 Jul 28 Aug 17 Aug 04 Aug 24 Aug 10 Aug 30 Aug 15 Sep 04 Aug 23 Sep 12 Aug 29 Sep 18 Sep 01 Sep 21 Sep 07 Sep 27 Sep 14 Oct 04 Colca Canyon Arequipa Ollantaytambo Puno Sep 19 Oct 09 Sep 22 Oct 12 Sep 29 Oct 19 Oct 04 Oct 24 Oct 11 Oct 31 Oct 13 Nov 02 Oct 19 Nov 08 Oct 25 Nov 14 Oct 31 Nov 20 Nov 03 Nov 23 Nov 08 Nov 28 Nov 16 Dec 06 Nov 29 Dec 19 Dec 02 Dec 22 Dec 06 Dec 26 Dec 10 Dec 30 Dec 14 Jan 03 Dec 20 Jan 09 Dec 30 Jan 19 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotel (15 nts), overnight bus (1 nt), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, plane, train, boat, hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $400-$640 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the Inca Trail Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAPXML My Own Room Available: Fr $399 You might like Lake Titicaca La Paz BOLIVIA Customise Your Trip Peru Adrenalin Pack Fr $80 Whitewater rafting (, full day), Horseback riding (, half day). Get ready to send your senses into overdrive. Peru is home to snow-capped mountains, giant sand dunes, picture-postcard lakes and enough ancient ruins to keep archaeologists employed for centuries! The country offers such a wide range of experiences, it s hard to know where to start. Well, look no further, this tour makes it easy and covers the very best this diverse country has to offer. Hike the Inca Trail, see the incredible floating reed islands on Lake Titicaca and witness the enigmatic Nazca Lines. Enjoy an epic adventure through this heartland of Inca culture, travelling through Peru and ending in Bolivia / Paracas Arrive in at any time, check-in and enjoy the city. On Day 2, hop on a bus down the coast to Paracas. Walk the town s lively pedestrian avenues, find a café and sample some Peruvian ceviche. Nazca This morning, opt to visit the popular Ballestas Islands, an excellent chance to view a lively sea lion colony, pelicans, penguins and other birdlife. Journey by bus to Nazca stopping en route to visit a winery and the oasis at Huacachina. One of the world s greatest archaeological mysteries, the Nazca Lines perfectly depict birds, insects and animals but are best recognised on an optional scenic flight. Arequipa / Colca Canyon Head to Arequipa, a laid-back city surrounded by the Andes Mountains, including the snow-capped peak of El Misti Volcano. This delightful colonial town was built from a light coloured volcanic rock, so older buildings dazzle in the sun, earning it the nickname of the White City. Take an optional visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina. Travel a rough, rutted road to Colca Canyon - the deepest in the world, stopping at the picturesque village of Chivay for a dip in the thermal baths. Take a tour around the Canyon, hopefully witnessing condors soaring high overhead. Fly to and spend the afternoon finding your way around this fascinating city steeped in history, tradition and legend. Inca-built stone walls line most of the central streets and you don t have to go far to see other major ruins. Be sure to check out the main Inca site within the city - Coricancha, once covered with gold and the Inca Empire s richest temple. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Take a guided tour through the Sacred Valley. Visit the impressive Pisac ruins and the colourful market. The picturesque village of Ollantaytambo is where you catch your breath for the hike ahead. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Depart Ollantaytambo where you begin this amazing trek in the footsteps of the Incas. A local crew of porters, cook and guide look after you well for the duration of this four-day hike. Admire breathtaking views at every step as you move from high plateaux to dense cloud forest. As you reach your final ascent to Machu Picchu, climb the steps to the Sun Gate overlooking the peaks that surround this famous site. When the morning is clear, there is no way to describe the feeling of the first views of Machu Picchu. (3B, 3L, 3D) Spend the next couple of days relaxing at leisure after your trek, or enjoying adventure activities. Puno / Lake Titicaca Today, travel through the high altiplano region to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca, with stark yet beautiful scenery en route. Next day, cruise over to Taquile Island for lunch in a local restaurant and shopping. Head to Amantani and overnight with a local family to enjoy typical music of the area. Next morning, you ll visit the floating islands of Uros en route back to Puno. (1B, 1L, 1D) La Paz Enjoy a spectacular drive from Lake Titicaca through the altiplano to La Paz - the highest city in the world. Explore this busy city sprawling around the base of a canyon. Explore La Paz s many fine museums, historic structures and vibrant markets. Say farewell to your mates on Day 21. CALL TO BOOK 51

15 ABSOLUTE PERU $3, S Create theories for the Nazca Lines Soak in hot springs in Colca Canyon Enjoy a homestay on Lake Titicaca View incredible Andean landscapes Explore s colonial past Trek the epic and iconic Inca Trail Marvel at the sight of Machu Picchu Discover the Amazon s flora and fauna Jan Feb Mar-Jun Jul-Sep Oct-Dec PERU Paracas Nazca Occasional Thu & Sat Thursdays, twice monthly Every Thu/Sat Every Mon/Thu/Sat & occasional Fridays Every Thu/Sat & occasional Mondays Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels / guest houses (13 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), overnight bus (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), camping (3 nts) Transport: Public bus, plane, train, boat, canoe Meals: 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAPHPT My Own Room Available: Fr $399 You might like Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Colca Canyon Arequipa Amazon Jungle Puno Lake Titicaca Why not add an optional theme pack to customise your trip? Peruvian Culinary Pack Fr $170 Learn the art of ceviche from a professional chef ( &, 2 x half days). Please note this is also available on the Classic Peru & Inca Journey trips (opposite). Start the adventure One of the longest trips in Peru, this tour covers a little of everything that the country has to offer, and that s why we call it Absolute Peru. It starts with a quick twirl in the vibrant capital,, moving on to the weird and wonderful Nazca Lines and beautiful Arequipa. Colca Canyon boasts its majestic soaring condors and on Lake Titicaca the locals are waiting to welcome you into their home. Colonial has churches, museums and adrenalin activities on offer before you set off on the challenging Inca Trail to see Machu Picchu. A trip into the Amazon Jungle with abundant flora and fauna finishes it up nicely / Paracas Arrive and relax or get out and explore the city before meeting your tour group in the evening. After a free morning on Day 2, you ll jump on the bus down the coast to lively Paracas. Nazca If you re a wildlife enthusiast, don t miss the chance of a trip to the Ballestas Islands, where you can see sea lions, penguins and birdlife galore. Head next to Nazca, where you can take an incredible (optional) flight over the mysterious and extraordinary Nazca Lines. You ll also have a guided tour of a pottery studio and a fascinating pre-inca cemetery in the Nazca Desert with 1,500- year-old mummies, bones and pottery. Just don t let them give you nightmares on the night bus to Arequipa! Arequipa Peru s second-largest city is colonial Arequipa, surrounded by Andean mountains and El Misti Volcano which creates a backdrop close to perfection. It s especially beautiful at sunset. There s an optional city tour and a visit to the brightly-coloured Santa Catalina Monastery, which should not be missed. Colca Canyon Travel through the desert-like terrain to Chivay for a guided tour to Colca Canyon. Here you ll watch for majestic Andean condors soaring through one of the deepest canyons in the world. Afterwards, you can go for a hot soak in the thermal baths. On Day 7, you ll drive back to Arequipa. Puno / Lake Titicaca Hop on a bus to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca; supposedly the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the Uros, Amantani and Taquile Islands before settling down for the night with a Peruvian family in a small village. There is also an optional visit to Sillustani burial site. (B, L, D) / Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Tackle the journey to by bus, through the stunning Peruvian landscape. Visit its impressive churches, wander around the delightful cobbled streets and hit the markets for alpaca wool designs. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Over the next few days you ll tackle the famous Inca Trail, 44km (27 miles) of unimaginable beauty with quite a bit of hard slog thrown in. You ll be mesmerised not only by the views but by your team of porters who ll race up ahead, ready to greet you later with a cup of coca tea and full-on meal as your weary feet arrive into camp - they re absolute legends. On the last day of the trek you ll arrive, astounded, into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate as dawn breaks. There is time for exploration and an optional climb up to Wayna Picchu before returning to to celebrate. (3B, 3L, 3D) Choose from some rest and relaxation or active options such as rafting, horse riding and cycling. Amazon Jungle After a flight to Puerto Maldonado and a motorised canoe trip, you ll arrive deep in the Tambopata Rainforest. From a comfortable, eco-friendly lodge you ll explore the rich flora and fauna with expert naturalist guides, both on foot and by boat. On Day 20, you ll fly out of the jungle back to for a last night on the town with your group. (2B, 2L, 2D) Once you ve recovered from the night before, it s time to say adios amigos. 52 VISIT

16 CLASSIC PERU $2, S THE INCA JOURNEY $2, S Cruise the waters of Lake Titicaca and stay with a Peruvian family Visit a women s textile weaving co-operative in the Sacred Valley Trek through the cloud forests along the world-famous Inca Trail Weave through the evocative Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley Ride the train from Aguas Calientes to see spectacular Machu Picchu Spot abundant tropical wildlife deep in the Amazon Rainforest Rock up to and head out to explore Peru s vibrant capital. Puno / Lake Titicaca Fly to Juliaca and transfer to Puno. From here, you ll head out on a boat ride over the waters of Lake Titicaca to visit the floating islands of Uros. Spend the night at a homestay in a small village, allowing you to gain first-hand experience of their ways of life. (B, L, D) Travel by bus to through the stunning altiplano scenery. The colonial city of awaits with markets and museums to explore / Arrive into at any time. Get out, explore and sip on your first Pisco Sour Peru s famous national cocktail. Early in the morning of Day 2, you ll fly over to. Here you ll have free time to admire the colonial architecture and visit museums, churches and markets. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Today, you ll head out into the Sacred Valley for a full-day guided tour of the numerous ruins. You ll visit a Planeterra weaving project in a local community where the women produce beautiful, brightlycoloured textiles. You can pick up a few bargains at a local market before arriving into Ollantaytambo and visiting the ruins here Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Today, you ll stretch your legs on a full-day guided tour in the Sacred Valley to learn about Inca civilisation and the ruins that remain. You ll also visit a Planeterra weaving project in a local community. The night will be spent in the pretty town of Ollantaytambo. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Km 82 marks the start of your epic journey along the Inca Trail. The views of the Andes will astound you, as will your team of local porters who ll race on, ready to greet you with food and coca tea as you reach camp each night. On the last day, you ll arrive at the Sun Gate and watch Machu Picchu appear through the morning mist before exploring this fascinating and famous Inca site. You ll return to by train for some welcome home comforts. (3B, 3L, 3D) Time for celebrations of your achievement, adrenalin activities or simply to sit back and relax in a café. Depart at any time on Day Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu / Hop on board a local train and wind your way through impressive scenery to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu and an optional climb up to Huayna Picchu before returning to. Spend today sipping on coca tea in s cafés and watch the world go by or head off on a thrilling day of adventure activities. Amazon Jungle Fly to Puerto Maldonado and continue by boat into the jungle to a comfortable lodge, which boasts sustainable initiatives such as solar panels and rechargeable flashlights. From here, you ll explore the jungle on foot and by boat to see species in their natural habitats. There s even the chance to have a go at piranha fishing. (2B, 2L, 2D) Fly back to on Day 9, and explore its vibrant neighbourhoods. After a last night out with your group, depart at any time on Day 10. Jan - Mar Regular Mon / Sat Apr - Sep Every Mon / Sat & Occasional Fridays Oct - Dec Usually every Mon / Sat PERU Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Puno Jan-Dec Every Thursday PERU Ollantaytambo Machu Picchu Amazon Jungle My Own Room Available: Fr $249 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels / guesthouses (7 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public buses, plane, train, boat, hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAPPC My Own Room Available: Fr $399 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (7 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts) Transport: Plane, private van, train, motorised canoe Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Local representatives in &, specialist CEO for the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Amazon, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASPIJ CALL TO BOOK 53

17 AMAZON TO THE ANDES $2, S Visit s museums and churches Drop into a women s weaving project Bargain at Sacred Valley markets Trek over high mountain passes Watch sunrise over Machu Picchu Motorised canoe into the Amazon Spot jungle wildlife with local guides Reward yourself with a Pisco Sour Jan Feb Mar-Dec PERU Usually Daily Selected Departures (Feb 01, 06, 09, 12, 15, 26, 27 & 28) Usually Daily Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels / guesthouses (6 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts) Transport: Public bus, plane, train, boat, canoe, hiking Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Local representatives in &, specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, expert jungle guide in the Amazon Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAPAA My Own Room Available: Fr $299 Machu Picchu CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Ollantaytambo Amazon Jungle Peruvian Culinary Pack Fr $170 Learn the art of ceviche from a professional chef ( &, 2 x half days). This adventure offers up an intriguing combination of mountains and jungle, and an unrivalled range of contrasting scenery, wildlife and cultures. First up, a superb trekking adventure that ll rival any in South America - the world-famous Inca Trail. Marvel at the genius of the Incas and gasp at the breathtaking views of the Andes peaks and Machu Picchu. After time to catch your breath in, move on to the Amazon where you can scan the rainforest canopy for wildlife from the comfort of an eco-friendly lodge, accompanied by expert naturalist guides. Inspiring and rewarding... not bad for 12 days! Land into, raring to go on this incredible trip of Peru. Why not start by exploring the various districts of this vibrant capital city? Wander around Miraflores or Barranco for a tasty meal and your first classic Peruvian cocktail the Pisco Sour. You ll meet up with your group in the evening. It s an early morning flight over the Andes to the picturesque colonial city of. The day is free to wander the well-worn cobblestone streets, poking your nose into the churches and marvelling at the interesting museums and markets. You re at an elevation of 3,400m (11,200ft) here in, but a cup or two of coca tea will help you acclimatise to the altitude. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Today, you ll travel with a local guide through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. An important source of food for the Incas, the Sacred Valley is a lush agricultural region that continues to supply the city of with much of its produce. You ll visit the impressive Pisac ruins and stop at the colourful artisan market (market days only) where you can haggle for souvenirs. You will also visit a Planeterra supported women s weaving cooperative in the local community where you can buy some high quality textiles directly from the women who made them. The day finishes in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, site of another large Inca ruin. Catch your breath and prepare for the hike ahead. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Starting at Km 82, you have four days and 44 glorious kilometres (27 miles) of world-famous hiking stretching in front of you. The porters will speed on ahead to set up camp, allowing you to take it slow, carrying only your daypack and with plenty of time to check out Inca sites along the way. Refresh with delicious meals and coca tea in camp before heading on up over mountain passes to a maximum elevation of 4,200m through the cloud forest. You ll arrive at the Sun Gate on your last day to witness a magical sunrise over the ruins of Machu Picchu. There will be time for an optional climb up to Huayna Picchu or a visit to the Inca Bridge before returning to. (3B, 3L, 3D) Give yourself a well-deserved round of applause and celebrate the fact you ve conquered one of the world s most famous and challenging hiking trails. Take inspiration from your activities and push your adrenalin to the max with an optional biking, rafting or horse riding trip. Amazon Jungle Flying to Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon Basin, you ll continue on to a comfortable, eco-friendly lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest by motorised canoe. During your voyage you will have the chance to see bird species typical of the river or forest edge. The area is renowned for its diverse plant and animal populations. Here come the stats over 1,300 bird species (including 32 types of parrot, 10% of the world s total), 200 mammal species, 90 types of frogs, 1,200 types of butterfly and 10,000 species of higher plants. These are all protected within the reserve and although you won t see them all, your local guides will definitely be able to help you spot a good number as you explore by boat and on foot. You can also learn about the extensive practical uses for medicinal plants and other forest plant resources, which are still used today in traditional techniques for building, fishing and hunting. (2B, 2L, 2D) You ll fly out of the jungle, back to for a final night out with your group. At the end of this great trip, ou ll have so much to discuss and reminisce about the last 12 days together. 54 VISIT

18 INCA EXPLORER $2, S Sample fresh seafood in Paracas See the Ballestas Islands penguins Marvel at the mysterious Nazca Lines Admire the White City of Arequipa Explore Incan culture in Ride a scenic train to Aguas Calientes Meet the local people of Lake Titicaca Walk the Sacred Valley s ancient ruins Paracas/ Ballestas Islands Jan 05 Jan 19 Jan 19 Feb 02 Feb 02 Feb 16 Feb 23 Mar 09 Mar 09 Mar 23 Mar 30 Apr 13 Apr 13 Apr 27 Apr 20 May 04 Apr 27 May 11 May 04 May 18 PERU Nazca May 11 May 25 May 25 Jun 08 Jun 08 Jun 22 Jun 15 Jun 29 Jun 22 Jul 06 Jul 06 Jul 20 Jul 13 Jul 27 Jul 20 Aug 03 Aug 03 Aug 17 Aug 17 Aug 31 Machu Picchu Arequipa Aug 31 Sep 14 Sep 07 Sep 21 Sep 21 Oct 05 Sep 28 Oct 12 Oct 12 Oct 26 Oct 26 Nov 09 Nov 09 Nov 23 Nov 23 Dec 07 Dec 07 Dec 21 Dec 21 Jan 04 Trip Style: Comfort Service Level: Upgraded Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Comfortable hotels (14 nts) Transport: Private van, plane, train, boat Meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAPEI My Own Room Available: Fr $899 CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Ollantaytambo Puno Peru Culinary Pack Fr $170 Learn the art of ceviche from a professional chef ( &, 2 x half days). Spot amazing wildlife, explore Incan culture and marvel at the mystery of the Nazca Lines in this cultural and historical tour of Peru; perfect for discovering its hidden treasures. Set sail to the Ballestas Islands, admire the glittering buildings in Arequipa and visit the unique floating islands of Uros. Meet the vibrant communities of Lake Titicaca and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Urubamba Valley in comfort as you travel by rail to Aguas Calientes (for Machu Picchu). Travelling by train will allow you lots of time to explore ruins, museums and shop for handmade gems in the markets. This is one incredible tour! Arrive any time in, also known as the City of Kings, and take your transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Why not visit the city s many landmarks including the Plaza de Armas where you ll discover the Cathedral, Government Palace and Archbishop s Palace? On Day 2, travel to the sleepy town of Paracas. Relax, sipping on the Pisco Sour, Peru s national drink, try local seafood and take in the unusual and dramatic coastal scenery. (B) Ballestas Islands / Nazca Set sail to the Ballestas Islands for sea lion colonies, penguins and birdlife. Continue on to Nazca stopping at the Huacachina sand dunes along the way. In Nazca, marvel at one world s greatest archaeological mysteries, the Nazca Lines. The patterns and pictures etched in the ground criss-cross over a wide area of flat desert. The question is, who drew the lines and why? Discover Nazca s culture on an included tour to an ancient pre-inca cemetery where you ll find 1,500 year-old mummies and bones strewn on the desert floor, before you re whisked off to a local pottery studio. (2B, D) Arequipa Spend a full day driving down the coast to colonial Arequipa. Nicknamed the White City ; its buildings dazzle under the sunlight due to it being built from a coloured volcanic rock called sillar. Head to the main plaza where you can chill in one of the cafés and admire the nearby cathedral. On Day 6, take a city tour and see the historic Convent of Santa Catalina where you ll find the spectacular mountains that surround Arequipa, including the famous El Misti Volcano. (2B) Fly off to, the hub of the South American travel network and a city steeped in history, tradition and legend. Explore its Inca-built stone walls and enjoy the many outdoor activities on offer. (B) Sacred Valley On Day 8, enjoy a full day guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit a Planeterra-supported women s weaving co-op and discover impressive Pisac ruins before ending the day in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, admired for its huge steep terraces guarding the Inca Fortress. (B, L) Aguas Calientes Travel by train to Aguas Calientes, a town nestled in the hills beneath Machu Picchu where you can chill out in the natural mountain hot baths, visit its butterfly house or botanical gardens. (B) Machu Picchu / Enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu. Rise early to see the mist rise revealing the incredible Lost City of the Incas. Join your guide for a tour of the site and test them on their Inca history knowledge! Return to and spend Day 11 at your own time and leisure. (2B) Puno / Lake Titicaca Take in the stark, beautiful altiplano scenery on the way to Puno, the highest night stop on the tour and famous for its wealth of traditional dances. Set sail on a comfy boat for a guided tour of Lake Titicaca, the highest lake in the world, before a trip to the unusual floating reed Islands of Uros. (2B) Spend the morning hitting the shops for any hidden gems in Puno before flying to on Day 14. Make sure you treat yourself to s speciality, a ceviche, perfect for seafood lovers, before your final night on the town. Say your farewells then depart at any time on Day 15. (2B) CALL TO BOOK 55

19 PERU PANORAMA $3, S Sip a Pisco Sour or two in Sail the world s highest navigable lake Enjoy a homestay with a local family Wander s cobbled streets Challenge yourself on the Inca Trail Marvel at sunrise over Machu Picchu Stay at a lodge deep in the jungle Spot Amazon wildlife with an expert Jan, Mar & Dec Feb Apr & Oct May Jun Jul-Sep Nov PERU Selected Mon / Sat Selected Mon Every Mon / Sat Machu Picchu CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Every Sat & occasional Mon / Fri Every Mon / Fri & occasional Sat Every Mon / Sat & occasional Fri Every Sat & occasional Mon Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels / guesthouses (8 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, private van, plane, train, boat, canoe, hiking Meals: 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, expert jungle guide in the Amazon Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAPPP My Own Room Available: Fr $299 Ollantaytambo Amazon Jungle Puno Lake Titicaca Peru Culinary Pack Fr $170 Learn the art of ceviche from a professional chef ( &, 2 x half days). FACEBOOK.COM/STATRAVEL.AU This is a nicely-rounded trip that takes in so many different aspects of Peru s offerings. The Inca Trail provides the perfect challenge, there s authentic culture in the form of a homestay with one of the unique communities on Lake Titicaca and a visit to a Planeterra-supported women s weaving project. Plus, there is wildlife and nature galore in the Amazon Jungle. It s time to figure out what those complicated settings on your camera actually do and get committing your magical moments to memory. The epic sounds and sights of all this are sure to leave you breathless - or is that just the altitude? Arrive at any time. Explore the city before you meet your group in the evening. Why not get your friendships off to a flying start with your first taste of Peru s famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour? Puno / Lake Titicaca Take a morning flight to Juliaca and wind your way into Puno, nestled on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Reputed to be the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca is a prime location for some truly perfect pictures; beautiful blue as far as the eye can see with impressive glacial spears poking though the distant clouds. Visit Taquile and the floating islands of Uros before reaching a small village where you ll stay with the locals a fantastic way to get a taste of their traditional culture. (B, L, D) All aboard the bus to. It s one of Peru s most attractive and cosmopolitan cities. A marriage between the Incas and Spanish colonial styles makes this city architecturally interesting and very pretty. There are markets to explore and churches to admire while you prepare for the hike ahead. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Today you ll travel through the Sacred Valley, discovering hidden gems as you weave along the Urubamba River, arriving into the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo. Along the way you ll stop at interesting Inca sites, whetting your appetite for the Inca Trail. Your guide will talk you through the steep terrace system and the impressive fortress. You ll also stop off to visit a Planeterra weaving project in a local community and have shopping opportunities at a local market. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Time to make (personal) history as you head up to Km 82 and begin your trek. Over the next four days you ll cover around 44kms, with no fewer than three high passes to cross. The mother of all steep bits is known as Dead Woman s Pass, standing at a height of 4,200m (that s an impressive 4km up into the sky). But with incredible ruins at every turn and a team of dedicated porters to lighten your load, the heights and distance should not be an issue, assuming a reasonable level of fitness. When you ve finished gasping and sighing at the dream-like sight of Machu Picchu at sunrise, there s plenty of time to roam around the site. Afterwards, you ll catch the train back to. (3B, 3L, 3D) Wake up feeling refreshed and revitalised before heading off on some of the optional adventures offers. Ride raucous rapids down the Urubamba River, wobble off on a bike or saddle up on a horse. Sacsayhuaman, pronounced sexy woman, is also only a hillside stroll away - but you might just want to sit back, relax and swear you ll never combine alcohol with altitude ever again. Ouch! Amazon Jungle / Fly over to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon Jungle. A motorised canoe will greet you to whisk you along the river to your comfortable, eco-friendly lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest. A local naturalist guide will get you familiar with the abundant flora and fauna. But don t expect to come out knowing the name of everything by heart - it holds the world record for the most bird sightings in one area and just one square kilometre typically holds 75,000 types of tree! You ll fly back to on Day 14, for one last night out with your group. (2B, 2L, 2D) Time to wave goodbye to your group you can leave at any time. Head off home or on to another adventure what country s next? 56 VISIT

20 QUEST OF THE GODS $3, S Canoe up river in the Amazon Jungle Spot abundant rainforest wildlife Relax in the colonial delights of Guided tour of the Sacred Valley Hike and camp along the Inca Trail Witness first light over Machu Picchu Discover ancient civilisations Stay with the locals on Lake Titicaca Jan-Apr May-Oct Nov Dec PERU You might like Regular Thursdays / Sundays Every Thursday / Sunday Every Thursday & Regular Sundays Regular Thursdays & Every Sunday Trip Style: Comfort Service Level: Upgraded Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Comfort hotels (8 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping (3 nts) Transport: Private van, plane, train, boat, canoe, hiking Meals: 13 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, expert jungle guide in the Amazon Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAPQG My Own Room Available: Fr $599 Machu Picchu CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Ollantaytambo Amazon Jungle Puno Shorten Your Trip In The Shadow of Machu Picchu (10 days, to ) (GAPSM) Fr $2,499 Peru Culinary Pack Fr $170 Learn the art of ceviche from a professional chef ( &, 2 x half days). Peru is number one on a lot of peoples bucket lists. A quick glimpse at this tour should satisfy your question why?. Experience the rich ecology of the Amazon Rainforest and travel from coastal cities to the remote heights of the Andes. Conquer the Inca Trail - one of the world s best-known hikes which rewards those willing to break a sweat with a stunning combination of Inca ruins, mountains and cloud forests. Finally, you ll visit vast Lake Titicaca with locals willing to welcome you into their traditional life on their floating islands. It s a hugely rewarding trip, and with comfortable hotels and lodges so you don t have to rough it Arrive into where your arrival transfer will be waiting for you. If time permits, head out to explore the city. Check out the Changing of the Guards and the cathedral before meeting your group. Amazon Riverboat Me Tarzan; you Jane. Get jungle fever as you touch down into Puerto Maldonado at the edge of the Amazon. Jump on a motorised canoe up the Tambopata River to a remote eco-sensitive rainforest lodge and unearth the vast knowledge of your expert naturalist guide as you take in the sights and sounds of the jungle. It s a great chance to see some amazing wildlife - monkeys, giant armadillos, capybaras (think giant guinea pigs) and birds galore. You ll explore on foot and by boat. (2B, 2L, 2D) / Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Head back out of the jungle by canoe before hopping on a plane to, high in the Andes at an elevation of 3,400m (11,200ft). You ll tour this cultural epicentre with a guide who ll give you the lowdown on colonial and ancient history. There will be free time for you to haggle for bargains at the local markets, wind your way through the cobblestone streets and take in the museums. On Day 5, enjoy a full-day guided tour of the lush agricultural Sacred Valley, stopping at a women s weaving co-operative and stunning Inca ruins. (2B, L) Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Head from Ollantaytambo to a point known only as Km 82, where you begin your extraordinary trek along the world-famous Inca Trail with stunning views of the Andes. For four days, you ll be accompanied by a saintly team of porters and guides who ll be one step ahead of you, preparing camp. On the final day, you ll complete the last stage of the Inca Trail before dawn, passing through Intipunku, the Sun Gate, and arriving just in time to witness the sunrise breathing life into Machu Picchu. Pretty incredible to say the least. You ll have the option to climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before jumping on a train back down to. Here you can reflect on the wonders of your journey and pamper those feet that have carried you so far. For those of you who don t wish to tackle the full Inca Trail, no problem, you can enjoy two additional free days in before catching the scenic train to Aguas Calientes which makes a convenient base for visiting Machu Picchu. Either option returns to on Day 9. (4B, 3L, 3D) This is a well-deserved free day. Relax in s cafés, or grab an alpaca woolly hat or two for your friends back home. Riding around the nearby hill, Sacsayhuaman, pronounced sexy woman is always a bit of fun, if not for the name alone. Adrenalin junkies can opt for other hair-raising activities like mountain biking or whitewater rafting. But seriously, do you have the energy? (B) Puno / Lake Titicaca Enjoy spectacular views of the countryside on this full day of travel from to Puno, through the high altiplano. In the morning of Day 12, you ll head out onto Lake Titicaca for a tour which includes a visit to the floating Uros Islands. You ll meet the islanders who ve maintained their traditions and way of life. Here it s the men who know how to knit! If you want to flirt Peruvian-style then make sure you dress appropriately, as hat and skirt colours are used to clearly indicate marital status. Who needs Internet dating when you can stand out in all your colourful glory as a spinster? (2B) Transfer to Juliaca for the short flight back to, where you can spend your last night lapping up some seafood ceviche and Pisco Sours. On Day 14, It s ciao for now, see ya later. Over and out. (2B) CALL TO BOOK 57

21 INCA PANORAMA ANDES & AMAZON $2,249 HIGHLIGHTS $2, S 8 S Discover the mind-blowing landscapes and colonial charms of Peru Spend a night in a rustic lodge in the deepest canyon in the world Share the moments of your trip with a fun bunch of travel mates Watch sunrise over Machu Picchu and spot an alligator in the jungle Enjoy a special stay in a an incredible Amazon Jungle lodge Ride the rails through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes / Arequipa Meet your Tour Manager and group this morning before heading out to explore the city sights. On Day 2, catch a flight to the White City of Arequipa and take in the city s history on a walking tour. (B, D) Arequipa / Colca Canyon / Puno Journey through the scenic Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve on your way to the jaw-dropping Colca Canyon. Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip in Chivay village and spend a night at a rustic lodge. On Day 4, marvel at the almighty Colca Canyon and try to spot the Andean condor. Later, see the majestic peaks and valleys of the Andes on the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. On Day 6, take a ride on a triciclo before catching a cruise on Lake Titicaca. See the Island of Taquile and the floating Uros Islands. (3B, L, 2D) Puno / / Sacred Valley Journey towards the magnetic city of, at the heart of the once-mighty Inca Empire. Stop off at Pukara to see its ancient Inca ruins and the last remaining two-storey Inca walls in Raqchi before arriving to. On Day 7, explore the city s cobbled streets and unique mix of colonial and religious wonders built on the hefty stone foundations of the Incas. Next day you ll visit the Sacred Valley and take a tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo. (3B, D) Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu / Indulge in adrenalin activities in the Sacred Valley; from biking and hiking to rafting, there s loads to experience. Alternatively, and for just a modest supplement, you can choose to hike part of the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! On Day 10, enter Macchu Picchu bright and early for rewarding views of the sun rising above the mountain tops. Arrive back to, where your trip wraps up on Day 11. (3B) / Sacred Valley Begin your adventure exploring the ancient city of on foot. Visit the charming San Blas, La Catedral, San Pedro Market and sample some of the many adrenalin activities. On Day 2, move on to the Sacred Valley for a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before arriving to Peru s oldest town, Ollantaytambo, for a night. Make sure to try some local Chicha de Jora (corn beer). (B, D) Sacred Valley Ready for some action? There is loads on offer in the Sacred Valley; from biking and hiking to rafting, and if you re still feeling restless, perhaps opt to go horse riding through the Valley. Alternatively, for a modest supplement, you can choose to do the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Take a train to Km 104, then trek amongst the cloud forest to the Sun Gate and Guardian House for spectacular views. (B) Machu Picchu / Rise early this morning to see an incredible sunrise over Machu Picchu and a tour of the Temple of Three Windows, ceremonial baths and altar. On Day 5, feed your adrenalin urge with activities like mountain biking and rafting. Enjoy s buzzing nightlife, try some Cerveza Cusquena and join the Illary (Sunrise) club! (2B) / Puerto Maldonado / Take a scenic flight over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru s southern jungle. Exciting activities await! Opt to hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then take to the shores and look out for an Amazonian alligator! Tonight, relax in paradise at the incredible Jungle Lodge. On Day 7, embark on a guided catamaran boat trip for some wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes peeled for the giant otter! Your adventure concludes on day 8, as you arrive to. (3B, 2L, 2D) Service Level: Superior Age Group: Exclusively for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts, twin-share), rustic lodge (1 nt) Transport: 1 local flight & transfer, private air-con coach, mini-coach or van Meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch (2 on trekking option), 4 dinners Group Leader: Tour Manager, local guides Group Size: Max 30 Tour Code: COLICU/COLICUT Jan 04 Jan 14 Jan 18 Jan 28 Feb 04 Feb 14 Mar 15 Mar 25 Mar 16 Mar 26 Mar 22 Apr 01 Apr 12 Apr 22 Apr 19 Apr 29 May 10 May 20 May 17 May 27 May 26 Jun 05 Jun 07 Jun 17 Jun 23 Jul 03 Jul 05 Jul 15 Jul 12 Jul 22 Jul 21 Jul 31 Aug 02 Aug 12 Sep 27 Oct 07 Dec 27 Jan 06 Additional dates are available, please ask for details. PERU Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) Chivay Colca Canyon Arequipa BRAZIL Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley Puno/Lake Titicaca Service Level: Superior Age Group: Exclusively for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (6 nts, twin-share), Amazon Jungle lodge (1 nt) Transport: 2 local flights & transfers, private air-con coach, mini-coach or van Meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches (3 for trekking option), 3 dinners Group Leader: Tour Manager, Englishspeaking local guides Group Size: Max 30 Tour Code: COCULI/COCULIT Jan 10 Jan 17 Apr 18 Apr 25 Jun 29 Jul 06 Jan 24 Jan 31 Apr 25 May 02 Jul 11 Jul 18 Feb 10 Feb 17 May 16 May 23 Jul 18 Jul 25 Mar 21 Mar 28 May 23 May 30 Jul 27 Aug 03 Mar 22 Mar 29 Jun 01 Jun 08 Aug 08 Aug 15 Mar 28 Apr 04 Jun 13 Jun 20 Oct 03 Oct 10 Additional dates are available, please ask for details. Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) PERU BRAZIL Sacred Valley Amazon Lodge Ollantaytambo Puerto Maldonado 58 VISIT

22 PERU UNCOVERED $3, S Bathe in a hot spring in Chivay Spend a night at a Colca Canyon lodge Spot soaring Andean condors Meet local villagers on Lake Titicaca Explore the sights of colonial View Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate Look out for incredible jungle wildlife Stay at an Amazon Rainforest Lodge PERU Jan 04 Jan 17 Jan 18 Jan 31 Feb 04 Feb 17 Mar 15 Mar 28 Mar 16 Mar 29 Apr 12 Apr 25 Apr 19 May 02 Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) Ollantaytambo May 10 May 23 May 17 May 30 May 26 Jun 08 Jun 07 Jun 20 Jun 14 Jun 27 Jun 23 Jul 06 Jul 05 Jul 18 Additional dates are available, please ask for details. Colca Canyon Amazon Lodge Sacred Valley Chivay Arequipa BRAZIL Jul 12 Jul 25 Jul 21 Aug 03 Aug 02 Aug 15 Sep 27 Oct 10 Dec 27 Jun 09 Service Level: Superior Age Group: Exclusively for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (11 nts, twin-share), Colca Canyon rustic lodge (1 nt), Amazon Jungle Lodge (1 nt) Transport: 3 local flights and transfers, private airconditioned coach, mini-coach or van Meals: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, (4 lunches for trekking option), 6 dinners Group Leader: Tour Manager, English-speaking local guides Group Size: Max 30 Tour Code: COLILI/COLILIT You might like Puerto Maldonado Puno/Lake Titicaca Extend your trip The Adventurer (25 days, - Rio de Janeiro) (COLIRJ) see page 32 Fr $6,865 Try something different Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper (11 days, - Guayaquil) (COQOGY) see page 79 Fr $2,965 From ancient Inca culture, the mighty Andes and dense Amazon Jungle to awesome locals and delightful llamas, Peru has it all. Take this opportunity to see the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, get involved in some adrenalin-pumping action in, admire the incredible Colca Canyon and spot amazing Amazonian wildlife. The highlight is of course Machu Picchu, which you have the option to trek to or to take a more relaxed option and go by train. When you re done, you ll have a great group of mates with you on this trip, to sit back with and re-live the memories over a Pisco Sour cocktail / Arequipa Meet your group this morning before checking out the bustle of s 43 diverse districts. On Day 2, fly to the White City of Arequipa. Delve into the city s history on a walking tour, covering sites such as the Santa Catalina Convent and Plaza de Armas, before sampling the city s tasty cuisine. (B, D) Arequipa / Colca Canyon Visit Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to wild vicuña, a relative of the llama. Later, soak in the hot springs before heading to your rustic lodge in the centre of the Colca Canyon. (B, L, D) Colca Canyon / Puno Spend the morning trying to spot the Andean condor soaring in the Canyon. Later, experience the majestic mountains and lakes of the Andes as you travel to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. (B) Puno Cruise Lake Titicaca to the island of Taquile and the floating Uros Islands. You ll visit the locals with their handmade crafts and famous textiles, to experience their unique culture and way of life. (B, D) Puno / First up is Pukara and its ancient Inca ruins. Want a souvenir? Here s your chance to get an artistic ceramic bull. At Raqchi, see the last remaining two-storey Inca walls before heading to. Next morning explore this ancient city on a walking tour. Then the afternoon is yours to experience more of the Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops or adrenalin activities. (2B, D) / Sacred Valley / Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu On Day 8, you ll take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins in the Sacred Valley before a stop in Ollantaytambo. Day 9 is adrenalin time! From biking and hiking to rafting there s loads to experience before you take the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo in the afternoon. (2B) Option: Inca Trail Trek For a modest supplement, why not walk in the footsteps of the Incas to complete part of the famous Inca Trail to magnificent Machu Picchu? Take a train to Km 104 and trek among the cloud forest to the Sun Gate and Guardian House where you ll be rewarded with incredible views over the site. (B, L) Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes / Wake early and be among the first to enter Machu Picchu to see the sun rising above the mountain tops. Tour with your guide and on your own before returning to base. Next day, feed your adrenalin urges with activities like mountain biking and rafting. Get into s amazing nightlife, try a Cerveza Cusquena and dance the night away to join the Illary (Sunrise) Club! (2B) / Puerto Maldonado Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the jungle. Tour the city and visit the native Infierno community. Hike through the jungle to the canopy tower and along the shores, try to spot caiman, a native Amazonian alligator! You ll overnight in a jungle lodge. In the morning, a local guide will take you on a simple catamaran to see wildlife including the giant otter, or maybe try a spot of piranha fishing before relaxing that afternoon. Another optional activity available is whitewater rafting on the Tambopata River. (2B, 2L, 2D) Puerto Maldonado / Your tour ends on arrival in, where it s time to say adios! to your travel mates. (B) CALL TO BOOK 59

23 LIMA SHOESTRING ROCK SOLID CONDOR S HOUSE PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST Choose from simple, comfy and clean dorms or private rooms Whip up a feast in the large kitchen Created by travellers for travellers $15 DORM PUCLLANA $44 $24 TWIN/DOUBLE LODGE $29 PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST Tuck into the free, hearty brekkie in the outside dining area Walking distance from trendy Miraflores bars and restaurants Relaxed, warm surroundings with a personalised twist SINGLE TWIN/DOUBLE Set in the Miraflores area, this fun hostel has a well-stocked and friendly bar which makes some of the best Pisco Sours in town. Hang out in the jungle garden, enjoy regular BBQs, chill out in the lounge, work your way through the extensive movie library or get competitive on the ping pong table! With two living rooms full of comfy sofas, a kitchenette and seven uniquely furnished guestrooms, this cosy guesthouse is a real home from home. Choose from single, double or triple rooms with or without en suites, all with free Internet access. Tidy, secure and brimming with independent style and design, its a real gem. STAY 4 PAY 3, 01MAR14-30JUL14 & 01SEP14-31DEC14 LIMCON LIMPUC rock solid rock solid EL TAMBO PERU PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST Enjoy snacks and cocktails at the lounge bar and cafe Fun, friendly and great value for money Clean and comfy with simple but stylish decor $79 SINGLE LOS $81 $45 TWIN/DOUBLE GIRASOLES $46 PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST Enjoy Peruvian and international dishes in the cafe/restaurant Great location in Miraflores Catch up with friends or do some planning with free Wi-Fi SINGLE TWIN/DOUBLE This hotel offers top-notch service at an unbeatable price. Ideally located in the heart of the tourist district, the en suite rooms have simple yet stylish decor complete with a large TV. After the delicious complimentary breakfast, use the laundry facilities and free Wi-Fi. This smart and modern hotel is located in Miraflores, a safe and lively area near the Central Park and the city s main attractions. Rooms are tastefully decorated and come with LCD TVs, a safety deposit box and en suite facilities. Sample tasty cuisine in the restaurant or if you re feeling lazy, grab some room service! LIMTAM LIMLOS 60 VISIT

24 JORGE CHÁVEZ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: 18km ë COOL STUFF TO DO IN & AROUND LIMA LA PAMPILLA MARIA REINA 1 2 MIRAFLORES Circuito de Playas 3 PLAYA LAS CASCADES 4 Republica De Panama HUACA PUCLLANA 300km TO NAZCA ê BARRANCO Jorge Chavez Primavera Tomas Marsano Aviacion Aviacion CHAMA Primavera Valasco Astele MUSEO AERONAUTICO DEL PERU Valasco Astele LIMA DISCOVERY TOUR $34 Discover the real on a guided half-day walking tour of the city s famous sights. Enjoy an informal Spanish lesson, wander Jiron de la Union and head off the beaten track to the central market. There, you ll learn about local dishes and typical drinks as well as sampling specialities such as churros. Continue on through the historical Plaza Bolivar and finally stop to rest and try a traditional Pisco Sour in the place it was invented. LIMDIS LIMA AIRPORT TRANSFER $23 Take the stress out of your arrival in with a private airport transfer to whizz you to your hotel. LIMTRA ICA DESERT & SAND BUGGIES $413 2 S FLY OVER THE NAZCA LINES $454 3 S Discover the beauty of Ica and witness the extreme thrill of sand buggies. You ll be blown away by the stunning Huacachina Lagoon and get to stop at one of the famous wine cellars. Day 2, take a boat ride out to the Ballestas Islands where you ll find lots of sea birds and sea lions in their natural environment. Returning to Ica, take a bracing sand buggy ride over the amazing white dunes before returning to by bus. Departs: Daily, to Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt) Meals: 1 breakfast Note: 1-day tour available, departing early from with late return Tour Code: LIMICA The Nazca Lines have been shrouded in mystery for centuries. Who made them? What s their purpose? Share your theories as you travel from to Nazca, arriving in time to grab dinner. Next day, take a tour of the Chauchilla graveyard s many tombs and ancient pottery followed by a flight over the lines with an aerial view of these ancient wonders. It s by far the best way to view this phenomenon! After a second night in Nazca return to. Departs: Daily, to Accommodation: Hotel (2 nts) Meals: No meals included Transport: Return bus from to Nazca Includes: Flight over Nazca Lines Tour Code: LIMNAZ NAZCA LINES TOUR WITH FLIGHT $221 FULL LEARN SPANISH IN LIMA $ WEEKS Set out from the town of Nazca to the arid Peruvian plains and discover the wonder of the Nazca Lines. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these well preserved images of stylised birds, spiders, fish and lizards have been attracting fascinated travellers for years. Jump on a flight to get an unbeatable view of these mysterious markings. You will also visit the Chauchilla Cemetery to witness many tombs and ancient pottery. Departs: Daily, Nazca to Nazca Transport: Hotel pick-up & drop-off in Nazca, 30-minute flight over Nazca Lines Tour Code: NAZNLF Make the most of your time in Peru by learning the language! Being able to speak Spanish will help you interact with locals, get around easier and mean you can order what you want to on the menu! The language school is located in the popular district of Miraflores, a safe and lively area near the beaches of making it perfect for a post-class sunbathe! The school has nine classrooms, a relaxing courtyard, a lounge and free Wi-Fi. Start Date: Mondays (arrival day Sunday) Accommodation: Shared apartment (single room) Meals: Self catering Tour Code: GLOBO CALL TO BOOK 61

25 CUZCO & MACHU PICCHU SHOESTRING rock solid rock solid MILHOUSE CUZCO $13 SINGLE PRISMA $58 SINGLE CASA ANDINA $133 $25 TWIN/DOUBLE HOTEL $34 TWIN/DOUBLE KORICANCHA $67 PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST Housed in a beautifully restored monastery and boasting a boutique feel with a hostel price tag, Milhouse is the best hostel in town. Relax on cosy beanbags with a refreshing cocktail, chill with a book in the courtyard or lounge on one of the comfy sofas. There s also a huge bar to boot - perfect for sharing travelling tales. Located in the historical district of close to the main square is this quaint and cosy, colonial-style hotel. Friendly staff ensure you feel right at home and the simple rooms are bright and clean with private bathrooms and cable TV. Eat in the restaurant or head out into the town and enjoy the plentiful nightlife. SINGLE TWIN/DOUBLE With impressive colonial-style design, an open air patio and warm interior decor featuring earth tones, this darling hotel embraces you. Don t miss the superb food at the traditional Peruvian restaurant. Rooms are cosy with en suites and free Internet access, plus the Koricancha temple is practically next door! STAY 4 PAY 3 (DORMS), STAY 6 PAY 5 (PRIVATE ROOMS) - 03JAN14-30 APR14,01OCT14-30NOV14 CUZMIL CUZPRI CUZCAS PERU HOP $221 MIN 7 S Meet and have fun with like-minded travellers on this hop-on-hop-off bus Travel your way, with a flexible, open-dated ticket See the best of Peru and make the most of the free tours along the way Departs: or : Mon, Wed & Fri Includes: 7-stop bus pass, hostel transfers, Spanish lessons, tours mentioned Group Leader: Peruvian English-speaking tour guide Note: Meals & accommodation not included. An accommodated option is available Tour Code: PERHOH Discover the magic of Peru in a fun, flexible and super-safe way by jumping onboard this new hop-on hop-off bus, operating both ways between and. Started by three Irish backpackers who wanted to bring the hop idea to Peru, they have employed and trained local Peruvian guides who are fluent in English and Spanish to show you tasty restaurants, great hostels, and who ll teach you a little Español. Make the most of the following free tours enroute: the old Inca City in Pachacamac, see the Natural Reserve in Paracas, home to an abundance of wildlife, get active and go sandboarding in Ica (optional extra), climb up the Nazca Lines viewing tower in Nazca, take a city tour of Arequipa and stroll around a vineyard in Pisco. You ll make loads of new mates along the way and there s no better way of seeing Peru! Uno, dos, tres, go! 62 VISIT

26 MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN Hop on the Peru Railway for a scenic journey from all the way to Aguas Calientes. You ll have plenty of time to enjoy this quaint mountain town and stretch your legs by walking to Mandor Waterfall or Putucusi Mountain, followed by a relaxing dip in the thermal hot springs. The famous Inca citadel Machu Picchu awaits you up the hill from Aguas Calientes where a day of exploration with your guide will certainly be an unforgettable experience. Departs: Daily, to Transport: hotel pick up and drop off, bus and train Tour Guide: Professional English / Spanish / Quechua speaking guide Tour Code: CUZMPT THE SACRED VALLEY & MACHU PICCHU $465 MACHU PICCHU $553 FULL BY TRAIN OVERNIGHT 2 S Enjoy a breathtaking train journey from, stopping by the beautiful town of Ollantaytambo for a sneaky peek, to Aguas Calientes, to explore the nooks and crannies of this attractive little mountain town. Day 2 is an very early start with a morning transfer to Machu Picchu, allowing plenty of time to visit this incredible archaeological site with your guide. Explore the hidden corners of this ancient Inca city before returning to. Departs: Daily, to Accommodation: Hostel (1 nt) Transport: Bus & train Meals: 2 lunches, 1 dinner Tour Guide: English speaking guide Tour Code: CUZMAC $431 2 S Wander around the Sacred Valley of the Incas taking in the beautiful archeological ruins Take a relaxing soak in the beautiful thermal hot springs in Aguas Calientes Watch the Inca constructions appear beneath the clouds as the sun rises Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hostel with private bathroom & hot showers (1 nt) Includes: transfers, transport, entrance fee to Machu Picchu Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 buffet lunch Tour Guide: English speaking tour guide Tour Code: CUSPIC Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas on this two-day trip; perfect for those short on time. Departing from, spend a day exploring the Sacred Valley where you ll have the opportunity to wander the colourful artisan markets, see beautiful ceramics and discover the diverse array of archaeological Incan ruins. Late in the afternoon take the train to picturesque Aguas Calientes where there is the chance to relax in the natural thermal pools. The following day, an early bus will take you to Machu Picchu, arriving at the summit just in time for sunrise. Watching the awesome Inca constructions appear beneath the clouds is an incredible sight. Enjoy a guided tour and then explore on your own - opt to climb to the peak of Huayna Picchu for amazing views over the entire valley and complex. Machu Picchu-ed out? Then, head back to town. INCA JUNGLE TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU WITH ZIPLINING & HUAYNA PICCHU $719 4 S Mountain bike past changing landscapes and snow-capped mountains Walk the real Inca Trail which winds around precipitous slopes and sheer drops See the magnificent sunrise over Machu Picchu city Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hostels (2 nts), lodge (1 nt) Transport: Bus, train Meals: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Includes: Mountain bike & equipment, transfers, hotel pick-up, bilingual guide, entrance to Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu, first aid kit, zipline, entrance to hot springs Tour Code: CUZJMP The perfect trip for adventure, this exclusive trail follows recently discovered Inca paths by bike, on foot and by zipline over multiple terrains. Start in and take a adrenalin-pumping 60-kilometre downhill bike ride to Santa Maria. Start the following day with an indigenous coffee and trek to Santa Rosa before continuing on to the real Inca Trail which winds around precipitous slopes and hair-raising sheer drops. Feeling daring? Fly from one mountain to the next on a zipline then soak in hot springs. Day 3, trek an exclusive part of the Inca Trail and admire the incredible view of Machu Picchu from the top of Llactapata, before arriving in Aguas Calientes. Rise early on Day 4 to see the Inca constructions at sunrise in Machu Picchu, then hike to Huayna Picchu for awesome views, before heading back to. CALL TO BOOK 63

27 MACHU PICCHU JUNGLE TREK - BIKE & TREK $492 4 S Departs: Mon, Wed & Sat Accommodation: Hostel with shared bathroom (3 nts) Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, 3 snacks Includes: Pre-departure briefing, professional guide, hotel pick-up, transfers, mountain biking equipment, first aid kit Tour Code: CUZBAN LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU Ride your bike through the lush jungle, cruising through fruit plantations along the way Trek through the jungle mountains and admire the incredible scenery Watch the sunrise over the magnificent Machu Picchu city Leave to begin your adventure. Start with a bike ride into the lush and humid jungles. See Huamanmarka Archeaological site along the way as you cruise through fruit plantations and over rivers before arriving at your hostel in Santa Maria. Whilst you re here, try the optional rafting activity and bounce off rapids along the Urubamba River. Rise early the following morning and trek through the jungle mountains for views of pristine landscapes, beautiful flora and fauna and get the chance to meet the locals. Spend Day 3 flying through the treetops on South America s highest zipline (optional), before taking an easy trek to the hydroelectric station and towards Aguas Calientes where you can chill out in the gorgeous hot springs. Watch the glorious sunrise, then take a walking tour of Machu Picchu before returning to on Day 4. $758 4 S Relax in the beautiful hot springs in Lares town Enjoy authentic views of life in the Peruvian countryside See a spectacular sunrise over the magnificent city of Machu Picchu Departs: Mon, Wed & Sat Accommodation: Camping (2 nts), Hostel (1 nt) Transport: All transportation Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Includes: Machu Picchu entrance fee, professional guide, all transport, predeparture briefing, horses to carry camping/cooking kit, basic sleeping matresses, first aid kit Tour Code: BAMCUZ SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU Escape to a part of Peru that has changed little in the past 500 years! Start in, catch your transfer to Lares town and relax in beautiful hot springs before starting your six hour trek to Wakawasi for stunning views of glaciers and wildlife. Spend the evening meeting local families living alongside nature and get some rest camping under the stars. Continue your trek through the Peruvian highlands and tuck into lunch near a lake before heading for camp in Patacancha town. Peek into a local school on Day 3, and then hike to Ollantaytambo before hopping on a train to Aguas Calientes for a night. Your final stop is Machu Picchu. Catch the spectacular sunrise and then take a walking tour to discover this majestic archaeological site s history. If you re still feeling active, climb to the top of Huayna Picchu for stunning views. Head back to on Day 4. $609 5 S Trek less-beaten tracks in breathtaking mountain-framed jungle Treat yourself to a soak in the hot springs amongst the upper jungle Admire the breathtaking sunrise over Machu Picchu Departs: Mon, Wed & Sat Accommodation: Camping (3 nts), hostel (1 nt) Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, snacks Includes: Machu Picchu entrance fee, professional guide, transfers, pre-departure briefing, mules to carry camping/cooking kit, first aid kit Tour Code: CUZSAL Leave for the great Andes mountain range. Start with a three-hour walk to Sayllapata enjoying panoramic views of beautiful mountains as you ascend towards Soraypampa. The next day, rise early to go to Salkantay for views of snowcapped precipices, before a downhill walk through a dramatic cloud forest towards Huayracpunku. Walk the upper jungle on Day 3 with its wonderful waterfalls, tropical fruits and exotic plants. Set up camp and treat yourself to a trip to the hot springs to soothe your worn-out feet! Head to the hydroelectric station; then to Aguas Calientes for another dip in springs before seeing the magnificent Machu Picchu by sunrise on your last day. Take a guided walking tour and with any energy left, climb Huayna Picchu (optional). Reminisce on your return to with your new travel buddies. 64 VISIT

28 LAKE TITICACA & COLCA CANYON COLCA CANYON TREK $287 3 S LAKE TITICACA & ITS ISLANDS $88 2 S On this unmissable trek through the deepest canyon in the world you ll spot plenty of llamas and alpacas in the National Reserve before trekking into the canyon followed by dinner and a night staying with a local family. Next day, hike into the beautiful Sangalle Valley and take a dip in natural pools. Overnight under the stars in a cabin made out of natural materials such as bamboo. Day 3, visit Cruz del Condor and return via Chivay s hot springs. Departs: Daily, Arequipa to Arequipa Accommodation: Homestay (1 nt), camping (1 nt) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Tour Code: AQPCCT/ AQPCCF Lake Titicaca, the world s highest navigable lake, straddles the Peru/Bolivia border, giving you a chance to see the pre-inca ruins and colourful textiles worn by the locals whose culture has hardly changed. Visit unique floating islands whose inhabitants have built their own islands from layers of reed and explore Inca and Tiahuanco archaeological remains. Dine with a local family and be welcomed into their home for the night, before returning to Puno. Departs: Daily, Puno to Puno Accommodation: Homestay (1 nt) Meals: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Tour Code: FJZTIT LAKE TITICACA BY KAYAK & BIKING DEATH ROAD $542 5 S LAKE TITICACA & SUN ISLAND $235 3 S This awesome trip takes you from the tranquil waters of Peruvian Lake Titicaca to the thrilling ride of the Death Road in Bolivia! From Puno, kayak across the lake, visit Esteves Island and Llachon Peninsula before arriving at Taquile Island. Here, friendly locals will give you a tour before moving on to La Paz for your mad mountain bike adventure. Supported by professional vehicles and guides, you ll speed past cocoa plantations, waterfalls and tiny villages. Departs: Daily, Puno to Puno Accommodation: Hotel (4 nts) Meals: 2 lunches & snacks Includes: Mountain bike, helmet and all equipment Tour Code: PUNLTI Experience Inca culture out on the islands of Lake Titicaca. Set off from Puno to Copacabana which boasts the best beach in Bolivia. The following morning it s off to the Island of the Sun for some trekking where you ll visit the Charkana Inca ruins. Next stop is Yumani for two nights with stunning views over the lake. Enjoy a boat trip to the Island of the Moon and the Virgin Temple. Return to La Paz with a camera full of amazing photos! Departs: Daily, Puno to La Paz Accommodation: Hostel (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts Tour Code: FJZPTL CALL TO BOOK 65

29 AMAZON JUNGLE JUNGLE ADVENTURE IN THE TAMBOPATA RESERVE $365 POSADA $691 3 S AMAZONAS LODGE 4 S Experience abundant wildlife as soon as you begin travelling to your beautiful jungle lodge. Further exploration and jungle walks with local guides will have you searching for caimans, capuchin monkeys and even possibly a jaguar! You ll get a demonstration of traditional fishing methods with the chance to see piranha fish. Witness a whole different variety of animals on a night walk through the buzzing jungle. Departs: Daily, Puerto Maldonado to Puerto Maldonado Accommodation: Jungle lodge bungalow (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Tour Code: PEMJAR On this tour you ll learn about the forest s everyday uses for food, medicine and construction - whilst staying in a rustic eco-lodge. Climb a canopy tower for knock-out views of expanses of standing forest cut by the winding Tambopata River. Paddle an oxbow lake searching for the resident family of giant river otters and watch as dozens of parrots and parakeets descend most clear mornings to ingest the clay on the river bank. Departs: Daily, Puerto Maldonado to Puerto Maldonado Accommodation: Jungle lodge (3 nts) Meals: 3 breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Note: 2 and 4 night options are also available Tour Code: PEMPOS BAMBA AMAZON JUNGLE $387 Puerto Maldonado Puerto Maldonado 3 S Get your camera ready for all kinds of wildlife Stay in comfortable jungle bungalows Enjoy river and lake life in the heart of the Amazon Departs: Daily Accommodation: Bungalow with private bathroom (2 nts) Includes: Transport by air con vehicle and speedboat, guide Meals: All meals at the lodge Note: Also available from Tour Code: PEMAJP Travel to the heart of the Amazon jungle on the Madre de Dios River to experience its lushess in person. Day 1, you ll be met in Puerto Maldonado where you ll visit the market and take a boat journey down the Madre de Dios River to your Amazon jungle lodge where you ll be welcomed with a cold drink. Visit Monkey Island where you can spot all kinds of bird and animal life as well as many types of monkey, of course! Day 2 involves a walk to Sandoval Lake. See birds, otters and alligators in their natural habitat. Spend your time canoeing, fishing or relaxing by this stunning lake. On Day 3, see the sunrise over the river before heading back to Puerto Maldonado. This great little package is also available as a five-day trip from which involves an overnight bus there and back to get you deep into the jungle. 66 VISIT

30 AMAZON RIVERBOAT ADVENTURE $2,499 9 S Cruise in style along Amazonian rivers Spot sloths, toucans and monkeys Keep a look out for the elusive jaguar Dine on food fresh from the jungle Explore the Pacaya Samiria Reserve Interact with the local communities See the jungle s creatures of the night Swim in the river with pink dolphins Jan 11 Jan 19 Feb 22 Mar 02 Mar 01 Mar 09 Mar 15 Mar 23 Mar 22 Mar 30 Mar 29 Apr 06 Apr 05 Apr 13 Apr 12 Apr 20 Apr 26 May 04 May 03 May 11 May 10 May 18 May 17 May 25 Canopy Walkway PERU May 24 Jun 01 Jun 14 Jun 22 Jun 21 Jun 29 Jun 28 Jul 06 Jul 12 Jul 20 Jul 19 Jul 27 Jul 26 Aug 03 Aug 09 Aug 17 Aug 16 Aug 24 Aug 30 Sep 07 Sep 13 Sep 21 Sep 20 Sep 28 Iquitos Pacaya Samiria Reserve Sep 27 Oct 05 Oct 11 Oct 19 Oct 25 Nov 02 Nov 01 Nov 09 Nov 08 Nov 16 Nov 22 Nov 30 Nov 29 Dec 07 Dec 13 Dec 21 Dec 20 Dec 28 Dec 27 Jan 04 Trip Style: Marine Service Level: Upgraded Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Amazon riverboat (6 nts) (all cabins have twin or queen beds, en suite facilities, air conditioning and river views), comfort hotels (2 nts) Transport: Riverboat, plane, private bus Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Budget: Allow USD $50-80 for meals not included, plus enough to cover drinks and tips on board the riverboat Group Leader: Certified Amazon Reserve naturalist guide, support staff on riverboat Group Size: Max 32, Avg 28 Tour Code: GAPVIIA Fly up from and hop aboard the Queen Violeta, a comfortable, modern and purposebuilt riverboat to discover the secrets of the Amazon Rainforest. Led by a naturalist guide, your cruise will include daily excursions by motorised skiff, revealing exotic wildlife - with any luck you ll spot sloths, toucans or pink dolphins. You ll have two full days of exploration in Pacaya Samiria Reserve, a chance to interact with the locals, learn about traditional life in the jungle and meet a local shaman - it s a rare glimpse of how life on the river is lived. Savour delicious cuisine on board and open a window into a beautiful, hidden corner of Peru Arrive in at any time, and catch your included transfer to your hotel to start your explorations. Iquitos / Amazon Riverboat Arise for an early flight to Iquitos where your Amazon riverboat awaits. Before boarding, enjoy the hustle and bustle of this port town on a city tour and stop off at a manatee rescue centre where you will learn about, and have the opportunity to feed, these lovable animals. As the Queen Violeta sets sail, relax and let the wild rainforest surround you. Step out onto the roomy observation deck to watch the world go by, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife such as grey and pink dolphins. (B, L, D) Marañon River / Amazon River / Ucayali River After a hearty jungle breakfast, you ll take an excursion on the Amazon and some of its tributaries to see the wonders of the rainforest. The Amazon is home to an abundance of wildlife so you may see monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birdlife. Enjoy lunch on board, followed by a presentation about the Amazon River from your expert guide. Later, you ll walk along the shores of the Ucayali River, where you ll have an opportunity to see the Victoria Regia water lily - a gigantic aquatic plant. (B, L, D) Marañon River / Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Spend a full day in the Pacaya Samiria Reserve - Peru s largest national park. Keep your binoculars at the ready to catch sight of herons, macaws, monkeys, sloths and many more primate, bird and mammal species. Enjoy another expert presentation on the life, history and culture of the Amazon s main tribes. Sail in a catamaran across the Enchanted Lake and relax on the tranquil waters. Before dinner, you ll touch upon the spirit realm by paying a visit to a local shaman. Shamanism is a practice that involves a practitioner reaching altered states of consciousness in order to interact with the spirit world. Meeting the shaman will help you understand the traditions of the rainforest. (B, L, D) Marañon River / Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Enjoy an early start and witness the Amazon world coming to life. Spy iguanas, river turtles and other fauna which you may not even have heard of! Embrace the warm hospitality of a local Indian family and be welcomed into their home for lunch and an introduction to their culture, costumes and way of life. This evening take a night excursion to discover who comes out after dark in the jungle! Be on the lookout for mammals, bats, and reptiles such as black caiman and poison frogs. (B, L, D) Marañon River / Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Enjoy a picnic breakfast before a ride up the Nahuapa River for a fishing expedition. What s biting? Piranhas, of course! Reputedly the most ferocious fish in the world but don t worry you ll be quite safe in your boat. You ll also visit the picturesque Choroyacu Creek where you have the opportunity to climb in a dugout canoe and explore this scenic area with the locals. After lunch, plunge into the cool river for a swim, if you re lucky you might even share the water with some pink river dolphins. Get a taste of the jungle at a cooking lesson and sample the results for dinner. (B, L, D) Nauta / Sapisapi River Return to civilisation today with a stop in the town of Nauta, where the Ucayali and Marañon Rivers (the major headstreams of the Amazon), merge. Browse the markets before visiting the Sapisapi River to look for turtles. Last night on board includes a farewell dinner and live music. (B, L, D) Iquitos/ Disembark at the port in Iquitos and transfer to the airport for your flight back to. Transfer to your hotel before spending a final night in the City of Kings. Your tour ends any time on Day 9. (2B) CALL TO BOOK 67

31 BOLIVIA TOP 5 MUST-DO s 1. WALK ON WATER AT THE SALT FLATS 2. FEEL THE DIZZY HEIGHTS OF LA PAZ 3. HEAD INTO A WORKING SILVER MINE 4. CYCLE DOWN THE DEATH ROAD 5. FISH FOR PIRANHA IN THE AMAZON SORATA LA PAZ ORURO SANTA CRUZ SUCRE UYUNI SALT LAKES

32 BOLIVIA DISCOVERY La Paz La Paz $1, S Conquer the high altitude Andes Strike a pose on the Salar de Uyuni Ride a 4WD over the salt flats Marvel at multi-coloured lagoons Explore the mining town of Potosí Discover Sucre s political history Step in ancient dinosaur tracks Pick up souvenirs at La Paz s markets Jan 05 Jan 15 Jan 17 Jan 27 Feb 03 Feb 13 Mar 14 Mar 24 Mar 28 Apr 07 Apr 04 Apr 14 Apr 18 Apr 28 Apr 28 May 08 May 05 May 15 May 14 May 24 La Paz May 31 Jun 10 Jun 13 Jun 23 Jun 29 Jul 09 Jul 11 Jul 21 Jul 19 Jul 29 Jul 26 Aug 05 Aug 01 Aug 11 Aug 11 Aug 21 Aug 24 Sep 03 Sep 04 Sep 14 Salt Flats BOLIVIA Potosí Uyuni Sucre Sep 12 Sep 22 Sep 21 Oct 01 Oct 04 Oct 14 Oct 12 Oct 22 Nov 08 Nov 18 Nov 14 Nov 24 Nov 20 Nov 30 Dec 06 Dec 16 Dec 19 Dec 29 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (8 nts), basic hostels (2 nts, multishare) Transport: Public bus, train, 4WD truck, plane Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) from Days 1-9, return flight to La Paz is not guided Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GABBDR My Own Room Available: Fr $299 You might like Add on Peru (before or after your trip) Andean Discovery (21 days, to La Paz, or v.v.) (GAJML) see page 42 Fr $2,449 Start the adventure Still relatively untouched by tourism, Bolivia offers some of the most dramatic scenery the continent has to offer, an interesting local lifestyle and cities rich in cultural and colonial history. The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the salt flats (a.k.a. the middle of nowhere!), where perspective is completely distorted. It s a photographer s paradise, so get your cameras poised. Combined with the magical markets and bustling streets of La Paz, the silver mining history of Potosí and the colonial glories of Sucre, it s a trip that s a little bit off the beaten track but shows off this marvellous country to its best La Paz Arrive into the rather fabulously named La Ciudad de Nuestra Señora de La Paz (the City of Our Lady of Peace) at any time today and adjust to the high altitude. At almost 4,000m (13,120ft), this is the highest city in the world. Soak up its spirit as you take an easy stroll around its bustling streets. Uyuni Transfer by bus or train to Uyuni, an isolated town built seemingly in defiance of its desert-like surroundings in the southwestern corner of Bolivia. Check-in to your hotel, go for a quick wander around and stock up on a few snacks and essentials as you prepare for the salt flats excursion. Uyuni / Salt Lakes Excursion You ll spend the next three days exploring the stunning landscapes between the Salar de Uyuni and Chile s Atacama Desert on an exciting 4WD adventure. Take your sunglasses - the already strong sun bouncing off the whiter-than-white salt flats is pretty intense and frazzled eyes isn t such a good look this coming season. The sights are quite simply astounding, particularly once you hit Fish Island, so make sure you ve charged your camera well - it s a photographer s dream come true. Carry on along the rugged terrain stopping at the incredible coloured lagoons, home to beautiful flamingos standing elegant and proud. Pass geysers, boiling mud pools, thermal baths and the whopping Licancabúr Volcano (5,960m) that looms in the distance. Cacti lovers will also be in for their share of spiky surprises, few other plants can grow in such a harsh environment. (2B, 3L, 2D) Potosí Travel by bus to Potosí, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a tumultuous history and reputation as a silver mining centre during colonial times. Many thousands of indigenous people and slaves brought here from Africa lost their lives in the silver mines, due to the appalling working conditions. Though things have improved today, you still need a sense of adventure if you want to enjoy an optional trip deep underground into working mine for a close-up look at the methods of extracting the precious metal deposits. There s also time to explore the city and to visit the Casa de la Moneda Museum. Sucre Continue by bus over to the fascinating, historic town of Sucre which serves as Bolivia s official and political capital. The city s fine museums, colonial buildings and ties to the independence movement make it a city of strong historical interest. There s the option to visit an old tin baron s mansion, a textile co-operative or head off mountain biking and hiking. If none of those float your boat, then you can follow in the footsteps of some older visitors too, with a visit to see dinosaur footprints! La Paz Fly from Sucre to La Paz this morning, where you have the chance to enjoy an optional city tour including a visit to the dramatic Valley of the Moon, just outside La Paz. Alternatively, just relax with a free afternoon to explore the city s markets and winding streets. Today is a last chance for souvenir shopping and if that s the order of the day be sure to check out the Witches Market where you can cure your real and imagined ailments with a whole host of herbal remedies and mysterious lotions. We can t vouch for their medicinal qualities, but it certainly makes for a weird and wonderful way to spend the afternoon! La Paz It s not even a case of swapping numbers or addresses these days, is it? Get onto your social networking sites to share all those photos, as you say goodbye to your travelling buddies. CALL TO BOOK 69

33 LA PAZ & BEYOND SHOESTRING ROCK SOLID HI HOSTEL ONKEL INN PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST Swap stories with other globetrotters in the sociable bar Within walking distance of top nightlife, Bolivian-style! Catch some zzzs in squeaky-clean and comfy dorms or privates $22 DORM LAS $36 $30 TWIN/DOUBLE BRISAS $30 PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST Admire the Amazonian landscape from the fifth floor solarium Choose from comfy singles, doubles or triples, all en suite Brimming with traditional charm SINGLE TWIN/DOUBLE Well placed in the centre of La Paz and close to hip nightlife - this is a cool spot for cool people. The bright, colourful and uplifting vibe makes this a top place to bunk down. There s a TV room, kitchen, Internet access, bike rental and a roof terrace with Jacuzzi boasting spectacular views. This hotel is located in the most popular area of La Paz, so you ll be right in the middle of all the action. The staff are friendly and helpful, there is free Internet and the fifth floor terrace is the perfect place to relax and take in the stunning views. The comfortable en suite rooms are elegantly decorated. LPBONK LPBHLB TOUR TO LAKE TITICACA $141 THE DEATH ROAD: $160 DOWNHILL BIKING 3 S FULL Escape the bustle of La Paz to visit one of the highest lakes in the world! Check out the beaches of quaint Copacabana and marvel at Inca Ruins on the sacred Isla del Sol. Day 1, it s off to Copacabana to visit the Basilica and a local crafts market. Day 2 takes you to Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) where walking and trekking will reveal a whole host of Inca ruins and sights. Day 3, catch an incredible sunrise before heading back to La Paz. Departs: Daily, La Paz to La Paz Accommodation: Hostel (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts Transport: Return transfers from La Paz included Tour Code: LPBLAK Bolivia s North Yungas Road, more popularly known as Death Road, is said to be the most dangerous in the world. Dropping 4,000 metres in five hair-raising hours, this is not a trip for the faint-hearted! You ll be fully equipped with helmet, gloves, and suspension mountain bike for the guided downhill ride of your life. Whizz through sensational scenery and finish up in the lovely village of Coroico, before transferring back to La Paz. Departs: Daily Transfers: Departs from HI Hostel Onkel Inn (La Paz) Includes: Mountain bike, helmet and all equipment Tour Code: LPBBIK 70 VISIT

34 CROSSING THE SALT FLATS Uyuni San Pedro De Atacama Cross the largest salt flats in the world Admire brightly coloured lakes and flocks of flamingos Check out fossilised coral and 1000-year-old cacti $296 3 S This is a spectacular tour of the largest salt flats in the world, the Salar de Uyuni. Travelling by 4WD with a guide and cook, you ll head first to Fish Island - an island of fossilised coral, covered in 1,000 year-old cacti in the middle of the Salar. Day 2, continue south past colourful lakes towards Lagoona Colorda, coloured red by the resident algae. Along the way, view flamingo flocks and wild vicuña. Pass through rugged Andean terrain, arriving at the Arbol de Piedra - a stone tree carved from the winds of the area. Your final day, take a dip in natural hot water pools, then view vibrant green Laguna Verde before finishing up at San Perdro de Atacama. PAMPAS AMAZONICAS La Paz La Paz Fly over the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Spend three days on a canoe trip down the Yacuma River Swim with dolphins and fish for piranha in the Bolivian Amazonia $717 6 S Get up close and personal with Bolivian nature. Start with a night in buzzing La Paz and then fly over the beautiful snow-capped peaks of the Andean mountain chain La Cordillera Real. You ll pass over the green valley of the Yungas to the last hills at the edge, entering the plains of the Amazonia. Leaving the village later by 4WD, you ll embark on a three-day canoe round trip up the Yacuma River to a campsite. You ll trek through the Pampas, observing wildlife such as monkeys, crocs and tapirs and take day and night excursions. will include swimming with dolphins and night fishing for piranahs, before flying back to La Paz. Departs: Daily, Accommodation: Simple lodges (2 nts) Transport: 4WD Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Note: Also available in reverse, see page 116 Tour Code: LPBFLA Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hostels (3 nts), camping (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Transport: Flights between La Paz & Rurrenabaque, 4WD, boat Tour Code: LPBPAM HUAYNA POTOSI La Paz La Paz $442 5 S MADIDI NATIONAL PARK La Paz La Paz $737 5 S Test your fitness at high altitudes Watch the sunrise from the mountain summit Enjoy views of Cordillera Real, La Paz and beyond Search for the rainforest s wildlife Trek past incredible flora and fauna Visit an indigenous village in the jungle The Huayna Potosí mountain, with its glaciated peak, stands at 6,088 metres-tall. Climbing to the top will reward you with unforgettable views over the Cordillera Real, La Paz and down into the green valleys of the Yungas. Day 1, drive up to a mountain hut, at 4,950m and set out on a training and acclimatisation climb up an old glacier. Your guide will teach you the techniques of mountain climbing, ice walking and use of all equipment. The second refuge, at 5,200m, is reached on Day 2. After a few hours sleep, head out up Huayna Potosi, reaching the summit in time for sunrise. It s a good idea to acclimatise in La Paz for a few days before your climb. Departs: Daily Accommodation: hostel (2 nts), mountain hut (2 nts) Meals: All meals while climbing, breakfast at hostel Tour Guide: 1 guide per 2-3 passengers & all equipment provided Tour Code: LBPHUY Madidi National Park is recognised as one of the world s most vast and biologically diverse rainforests with steep jungle terrain, white water rivers, snow-capped mountains and stunning scenery. You ll fly from La Paz to your jungle hub, Rurrenabaque village. From here you will head out into the jungle and pampas in search of anaconda, spectacled bears, otters, jaguars, monkeys and piranhas. Travel by boat to the special base campsite where you ll stay for two nights. Spend your days trekking in the jungle and by night go in search of wildlife. You ll also visit a local community to learn about their way of life. On Day 5, return to La Paz by plane. Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hostel (2 nts), camping (2 nts) Transport: Flights between La Paz & Rurrenabaque, boat Meals: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners Tour Guide: Local guide, driver Tour Code: LPBMNP CALL TO BOOK 71

35 ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS TOP 5 MUST-DO s 1. SOAK IN THE HOT SPRINGS AT BAÑOS 2. ADMIRE QUITO S GOLDEN CATHEDRAL 3. RIDE THE DEVIL S NOSE RAILWAY 4. GET CLOSE TO GALAPAGOS WILDLIFE 5. BE BRAVE: SNORKEL WITH SHARKS! GALAPAGOS ISLANDS OTAVALO QUITO TENA MACHALILLA ECUADOR ALAUSÍ

36 GALAPAGOS ISLANDS unique and extraordinary They sit 972kms (600 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, but the Galapagos Islands may as well be a foreign planet. Teeming with unique wildlife, the archipelago is one of the world s most captivating destinations. fly there for free All our Galapagos tours and sailing trips include return flights from mainland Ecuador. If you book any G Adventures tour in Peru, we ll also throw in a one-way flight from Peru to. See p.39 for more details. island stays or cruising - how best to visit For many people, the Galapagos will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but you don t need to rush round all the islands - the wildlife is so extensive that you can gain a full appreciation simply by visiting two or three. Choose a sailing trip to travel in comfort, to enjoy meals on board and to avoid the need for packing and unpacking. A land-based tour, where you stay on the main islands, is a better choice if you want to meet the locals, explore the towns and rural hinterlands, and to dine in local cafés. THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS Fernandina WESTERN ISLANDS Isabela PACIFIC OCEAN Santiago Rabida Central islands - santiago, rabida, bartolomé, baltra, santa cruz, south plaza & Santa fé Flying into the main airport on Baltra, the Central Islands may well be your first taste of the Galapagos. Though relatively close to each other, these small islands have developed in isolation and are among the best spots to witness the full scope of the archipelago s incredible natural diversity. Include: See tortoises in the wild in the lush, green highlands on bustling Santa Cruz Visit the fascinating Charles Darwin Research Station Explore Puerto Ayora, the main town, with its bustling fish market Views of Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé Hidden snorkelling spots and white sand beaches on Santiago Swim with playful sea lions in the waters off North Seymour Multi-coloured Rábida offers red cliffs, pink flamingos and blue-footed boobies Bartolomé CENTRAL ISLANDS Santa Cruz Floréana NORTHERN ISLAND Genovesa Baltra South Plaza Santa Fé SOUTHERN ISLANDS EAST ISLAND Española San Cristóbal east island - san cristóbal One of the oldest islands, San Cristóbal s eroded volcanic peaks are tailor-made for hiking and mountain biking. Divers and snorkellers will find more than enough to keep them entertained below the surface. Include: Sail through the gap at Kicker Rock and snorkel with hammerhead sharks Chill with the sea lions on the white sand beaches of Cerro Brujo northern island - genovesa Little more than a rock, tiny Genovesa has an amazing concentration of birds and a rich variety of aquatic life under the waves. Include: Look for sea turtles and reef sharks while snorkelling a sunken volcanic crater Seabird colonies and top-notch views on the hiking trail to El Barranco Red-footed boobies and frigate birds southern islands - floréana & española Home to first-class snorkelling, the bays and unusual land formations that once gave shelter to pirates are now home to a dazzling array of birds and marine life. Include: See the waved albatross of Española Mail a letter and take one home from Post Office Bay on Floréana Discover the exotic aquatic life while snorkeling at Isolte Champion western islands - isabela & fernandina The largest and youngest of the islands, Isabela and Fernandina should be ports of call for anyone looking for the best wildlife. Include: Hike to the caldera of Sierra Negra (1,124m), a classic shield volcano Visit massive colonies of marine iguanas Relax in laid-back Puerto Villamil CALL TO BOOK 73

37 GALAPAGOS ISLAND SAILING 6-10 S DIVE INTO NATURE S WORKSHOP Snorkel with sea lions, soak up the sun with iguanas, or sit on deck and marvel at the natural beauty just a typical day sailing in the Galapagos. Every island offers its own unique landscapes and wildlife-spotting opportunities; and with no known predators, the wildlife exhibits almost no fear of humans. This isolated haven of biodiversity remains nature s greatest science laboratory, more than two centuries after Charles Darwin published his earth-shattering theory of evolution. SMALL GROUP SAILING We work closely with our trusted partner, G Adventures, to bring you an amazing range of sailing holidays, suitable for all budgets: The standard level vessel, the Daphne (G3) is the most affordable option; whilst for an upgraded level of comfort and style, you can work your way up the fleet. The San Jose (G5) offers lots of outdoor and cabin space, while the Monserrat (G7) offers the best passenger-to-guide ratio. For the most comfortable options, choose the Queen of Galapagos (G8) or the handsomely-appointed Evolution (G10), which is the newest addition to the fleet. The maximum group size is 16, apart from on the Monserrat and Evolution, which carry 20 and 32 passengers respectively. The small group philosophy ensures you get the most out of the expertise of the fullytrained naturalist guide(s) on board. MEET THE FLEET While other companies buy space on many different yachts of varying standards, G Adventures charters and maintains its own vessels to ensure you receive a quality experience from start to finish and so that you sail with like-minded travellers. ITINERARIES In order to minimise the impact of tour boats on each island, and more importantly on the native wildlife, the Galapagos National Park Service sets strict controls over where each boat can sail, and how often. All boats operate on a two-week cycle so you can select which island grouping interests you most. You d need to book two back-to-back 10-day trips to see the entire archipelago, but most guests are content to do just one 10-day trip or alternatively one of the shorter 6 or 7-day itineraries. Bear in mind that your first and last nights are in, so you ll actually spend 3, 4 or 7 nights on board your chosen cruise. Return flights between and the Galapagos, which take around 2 hours 30 minutes, are also included. LIFE ON BOARD An expert naturalist guide (two guides on the Monserrat and Evolution ) is employed on each boat and hosts nightly seminars to discuss the next day s itinerary, show how to identify the local flora and fauna, and explain how to behave around the native wildlife. You can get close, but it s still important to note that the Galapagos is not a petting zoo! Much of the inter-island sailing takes place at night to allow two on-shore excursions each day, typically spending up to four hours at each landing stop. Delicious meals on board comprise seafood, beef, salads, soups and desserts, served with tea/coffee and purified water. ANY OTHER COSTS The Galapagos National Park Service levies a fee of USD $100 per person, payable in cash only, on arrival at the airport in the Galapagos. This fee is used to protect and preserve the islands for the enjoyment of future generations. On board the boat, you ll find soft drinks, beer, wine and a basic selection of spirits can be purchased from the bar, and your tab is settled on disembarkation. If you wish to tip your crew and guide, we d suggest something like USD $8-10 per passenger, per day. 74 VISIT

38 VOYAGE GALAPAGOS Aboard the Daphne (G3) $2,199 the daphne (G3) - AT A GLANCE Service Level: Standard Capacity: 16 passengers Cabins: 8 double cabins with private bathrooms and air conditioning. All cabins feature upper and lower berths and are location on the upper or lower deck. Crew: 7 crew plus bilingual local naturalist guide certified by the Galapagos National Park Authority. Boat Layout: Two-level boat with a wraparound deck, outdoor sundeck, bar and seating area. Interior dining room and lounge with TV/DVD player for daily briefings. Amenities: Snorkelling equipment included. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included each day with freshly-prepared Ecuadorian and international cuisine. Accommodation: Hotels in (2 nts), twin share cabin (3, 4 or 7 nts) Transport: Plane, yacht, van, Zodiac, public bus Meals: All meals on board Budget: Allow USD $10 for a Tourist Transit Card at Airport, USD $100 (in cash) for the Galapagos National Park entry fee, USD $ for meals not included, plus an amount for drinks and tips Group Leader: On board crew and naturalist guide, local rep in Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: As shown SOUTHERN ISLANDS WESTERN ISLANDS $2,199 6 S INCLUDE 3 nights cruising aboard the Daphne (G3) Snorkel with playful and inquisitive sea lions and search for sea turtles Come face-to-face with 100-year-old giant tortoises Visit the impressive El Solpador blow hole on Española GAEV06HB $3,749 INCLUDE 7 nights cruising aboard the Daphne (G3) Hike the Sierra Negra volcano Explore coastal lagoons and black lava flows while searching for unique bird life Land on seldom-visited Fernandina, home to some of the Galapagos most diverse wildlife and vegetation Snorkel with sea lions and turtles NORTHERN & CENTRAL ISLANDS NORTHERN & SOUTHERN ISLANDS 7 S INCLUDE 4 nights cruising aboard the Daphne (G3) Snorkel in the caldera of a collapsed volcano whilst searching for marine life Explore extraordinary frigatebird and booby colonies on Genovesa Choose to relax on the white sand beaches of Santiago Learn the Islands biological history from your qualified naturalist guide $2,449 GAEV07HB $3, S 10 S INCLUDE 7 nights cruising aboard the Daphne (G3) Send a postcard home (or a letter in a bottle!) from quirky Post Office Bay Discover massive colonies of blue-footed boobies on Genovesa Explore the aquatic wonderland that lies beneath the gap in Kicker Rock - perhaps snorkel with hammerhead sharks GAEV10HA GAEV10HB CALL TO BOOK 75

39 EXPLORE GALAPAGOS Aboard the Monserrat (G7) $2,499 the monserrat (G7) - AT A GLANCE Service Level: Upgraded Capacity: 20 passengers Cabins: 10 double cabins with private bathrooms and air conditioning. Upper and lower deck cabins are outside facing with twin and double beds. Crew: 7 crew plus cruise director and 2 bilingual local naturalist guides certified by the Galapagos National Park Authority. Boat Layout: Spacious main deck, with bar and dining room. Large forward sundeck with lounge chairs. Observation deck with great sightlines. Large lounge area with TV/ DVD player for daily briefings. Amenities: Snorkelling equipment included. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included each day with freshly-prepared Ecuadorian and international cuisine. Accommodation: Hotels in (2 nts), twin share cabin (3, 4 or 7 nts) Transport: Plane, yacht, van, Zodiac, public bus Meals: All meals on board Budget: Allow USD $10 for a Tourist Transit Card at Airport, USD $100 (in cash) for the Galapagos National Park entry fee, USD $ for meals not included, plus an amount for drinks and tips Group Leader: On board crew and cruise director, 2 naturalist guides, local rep in Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: As shown CENTRAL & EAST ISLANDS CENTRAL, SOUTHERN & EAST ISLANDS $2,499 6 S INCLUDE 3 nights cruising aboard the Monserrat (G7) Discover spectacular marine life in secluded bays and snorkel with sea lions Find land iguanas feeding in the cactus forests on South Plaza Island See if you can outstare a 100-year-old giant tortoise! GASEV06NA $4,099 INCLUDE 7 nights cruising aboard the Monserrat (G7) Hike over the volcanic flows for a dramatic viewpoint on Bartolomé Snorkel with sea turtles, sea lions and other aquatic wildlife Relax on the gorgeous beaches of Española Learn the Galapagos fascinating human and geological stories from your expert guides WESTERN & CENTRAL ISLANDS WESTERN, CENTRAL & EAST ISLANDS 7 S INCLUDE 4 nights cruising aboard the Monserrat (G7) Hike the Sierra Negra volcano, the largest basalt caldera in the Galapagos Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean Grab your binoculars to spot blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds and penguins GASEV07NA 10 S 10 S GASEV10NB INCLUDE 7 nights cruising aboard the Monserrat (G7) Look out for land iguanas sunning themselves in perfect disguise on volcanic rocks Hike the Sierra Negra volcano for fantastic views over the island of Isabela Swim and snorkel with a variety of marine life in secluded bays Enjoy outstanding local and international cuisine served on board $2,949 $4,099 GASEV10NA 76 VISIT

40 DISCOVER GALAPAGOS Aboard the Queen of Galapagos (G8) $2,949 Queen of galapagos (g8) - AT A GLANCE Service Level: Upgraded Capacity: 16 passengers Cabins: 7 luxury cabins with queen or twin side-by-side beds (no bunks) all with private bathrooms, air conditioning, TV/ DVD players and large windows. 1 suite. Crew: 10 crew plus bilingual local naturalist guide certified by the Galapagos National Park Authority. Boat Layout: Large aft porch with couches and lounge chairs. An elegant dining room, lounge and bar for meals and daily briefings and presentations. Amenities: Snorkelling equipment, beach towels and wetsuits included. Comprehensive breakfast, lunch and dinner are included each day. Accommodation: Hotels in (2 nts), twin share luxury cabin (3, 4 or 7 nts) Transport: Plane, yacht, van, Zodiac, public bus Meals: All meals on board Budget: Allow USD $10 for a Tourist Transit Card at Airport, USD $100 (in cash) for the Galapagos National Park entry fee, USD $ for meals not included, plus an amount for drinks and tips Group Leader: On board crew and naturalist guide, local rep in Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: As shown CENTRAL ISLANDS CENTRAL, SOUTHERN & EAST ISLANDS 6 S INCLUDE 3 nights cruising aboard the Queen of Galapagos (G8) Spend your days exploring the incredible wildlife with an expert naturalist guide Swim and snorkel with curious sea lions Search for land iguanas on South Plaza Island Make use of the onboard wetsuits, snorkel equipment and beach towels GAEV06GA INCLUDE 7 nights cruising aboard the Queen of Galapagos (G8) Multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel with sea turtles, sea lions and a myriad of tropical fish Keep your binoculars handy to spot bluefooted boobies, penguin and frigatebirds Listen to onboard naturalist presentations to really bring the islands to life $2,949 $4,749 SOUTHERN & EAST ISLANDS NORTHERN & CENTRAL ISLANDS 7 S 10 S 10 S GAEV10GA INCLUDE 4 nights cruising aboard the Queen of Galapagos (G8) Explore the marine wonderland of Kicker Rock off San Cristobal, one of the most famous sites in the Galapagos Come face-to-face with 100-year-old giant tortoises Learn the difference between a marine and land iguana from your expert guide GAEV07GA INCLUDE 7 nights cruising aboard the Queen of Galapagos (G8) Spot colonies of frigatebirds and boobies on the cliffs of Genovesa Enjoy three delicious meals served daily with Ecuadorian and international cuisine Gain a deeper insight from your Galapagos National Park onboard guide into the archipelago s ecology $3,349 $4,749 GAEV10GB CALL TO BOOK 77

41 LAND GALÁPAGOS MULTI-ACTIVITES GALÁPAGOS ON A $2,999 SHOESTRING $2, S 9 S Cruise between the islands of the Galápagos, staying on shore Snorkel and swim with marine life such as turtles and manta rays See endangered species at the Charles Darwin Research Station See wildlife like the remarkable Giant Galápagos Land Tortoise Get out on the water with optional kayaking, snorkeling or surfing Camp out at a sustainable farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz / San Cristóbal Island Arrive and head out to enjoy the capital s vibrant nightlife. On Day 2, fly to San Cristóbal Island where you ll head off on a downhill bike excursion and visit Mann Beach to see the sea lions and frigate birds. On Day 3, it s time for a snorkelling trip at Kicker Rock to seek out sea turtles, manta rays and sharks. Later, visit the Interpretation Centre to learn about the natural history of the area. (2B, 2L) Floreana Island / Isabela Island You ll travel by boat to Floreana Island with opportunities for swimming and snorkelling and a free afternoon in Puerto Velasco Ibarra. On Day 5, you ll take a morning excursion to the highlands of Floreana before continuing by boat to Isabela Island for a visit to the Wall of Tears and a nearby lookout point. (2B, 2L, D) Isabela Island / Santa Cruz Enjoy a full-day tour to Sierra Negra Volcano to see the world s second-largest crater, stopping to visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre on the way back to town. On Day 7 an excursion will take you to Las Tintoreras, otherwise known as Shark Alley to observe whitetip reef sharks and a variety of bird life. You ll travel by boat in the afternoon to Santa Cruz Island and have a free evening to explore the town of Puerto Ayora or go shopping. (2B, 2L) Santa Cruz / You ll visit the highlands of Santa Cruz to see the Galápagos Giant Tortoise s natural habitat and the lava tunnels. Afterwards, walk to Tortuga Bay for a kayak excursion into the mangroves. On Day 9, at the Charles Darwin Research station, you ll observe various species close to extinction before transferring across the island to Baltra for a flight back to. Depart at any time on Day 10. (3B, L) Arrive into at any time, meet your group and discover the city s rich history in the colonial district. San Cristóbal Fly to San Cristóbal Island where you ll get a first feel for what life is like for the lucky inhabitants of the Galápagos. Visit the Interpretation Centre and hike to Las Tijeretas for some fantastic birdwatching. Spend your free time on the beaches and swimming. Santa Cruz Take a speedboat ride to Santa Cruz and the largest town on the Galápagos Islands, Puerto Ayora. Get a glimpse of the giant Galápagos land tortoise in the wild and spend the night camping in the highlands at a sustainable living farm area. (L, D) Isabela Island / Santa Cruz Head out by speedboat to the most volcanically active island, Isabela. You ll visit the impressive and moving Wall of Tears, costructed by convicts. On a free day, there are optional tours to Sierra Negra Volcano or, if you want to get active, there are surf lessons to be had on nearby beaches or snorkelling and kayak trips. Return to Santa Cruz to visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre and for free time to walk to idyllic Tortuga Bay in the afternoon. As you stroll along the beach, don t be surprised if the rocks turn out to be land iguanas! Santa Cruz / On Day 8 you ll transfer across the island to Baltra. From here you ll bid the Galápagos Islands farewell and fly back to. After a night out with your group it s time to say adios amigos and start planning your next adventure. How are you going to top this one, though? Jan 11 Jan 20 Jan 25 Feb 03 Feb 08 Feb 17 Feb 22 Mar 03 Mar 08 Mar 17 Mar 13 Mar 22 Mar 15 Mar 24 Mar 22 Mar 31 Apr 05 Apr 14 Apr 19 Apr 28 May 03 May 12 May 17 May 26 May 31 Jun 09 Jun 14 Jun 23 Jun 28 Jul 07 Jul 05 Jul 14 Jul 12 Jul 21 Jul 26 Aug 04 Aug 09 Aug 18 Aug 23 Sep 01 Sep 06 Sep 15 Sep 20 Sep 29 Oct 04 Oct 13 Oct 18 Oct 27 Nov 01 Nov 10 Nov 15 Nov 24 Nov 29 Dec 08 Dec 13 Dec 22 Dec 27 Jan 05 Baltra Isabela San Cristóbal Is ECUADOR Santa Cruz Floreana Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts) Transport: Plane, speedboat, van, pick-up truck, public buses, Zodiacs Meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 1 dinner Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included, USD $10 for a Tourist Transit Card at Airport, USD $100 (cash only) for a Galápagos National Park entry fee, plus USD $5 for the Isabela Municipal Tax Group Leader: Certified naturalist guide in the Galápagos, local rep in Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEGL Jan 10 Jan 18 Jan 31 Feb 08 Feb 21 Mar 01 Mar 14 Mar 22 Apr 04 Apr 12 Apr 18 Apr 26 May 02 May 10 May 25 Jun 02 Jun 20 Jun 28 Jul 11 Jul 19 Aug 01 Aug 09 Aug 15 Aug 23 Sep 12 Sep 20 Oct 06 Oct 14 Oct 24 Nov 01 Nov 14 Nov 22 Dec 05 Dec 13 Dec 26 Jan 03 Baltra San Cristóbal Is Santa Cruz Isabela ECUADOR Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation: Simple hotels (7 nts, some multishare), camping (1 nt) Transport: Plane, speedboat, van, pick-up truck, public buses, Zodiacs Meals: 1 lunch, 1 dinner Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included, USD $10 for a Tourist Transit Card at Airport, USD $100 (cash only) for a Galápagos National Park entry fee, plus USD $5 for the Isabela Municipal Tax Group Leader: Certified naturalist guide in the Galápagos, local rep in Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEGS 78 VISIT

42 ECUADOR & GALÁPAGOS ISLAND HOPPER Guayaquil $2, S Cross the Equator Line near Take a dip in a relaxing thermal spring Go local at a salsa lesson in Baños Enjoy an Ecuadorian barbecue feast See tortoises in their natural habitat Snorkel in underground lava tubes Chill out on Puerto Grande s beach Get up close to Galápagos wildlife GALAPAGOS ISLANDS Baltra Puerto Villamil Jan 23 Feb 02 Mar 03 Mar 13 Mar 31 Apr 10 Santa Cruz/ Puerto Ayora San Cristobal/ Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Apr 28 May 08 May 26 Jun 05 Jun 23 Jul 03 Additional dates are available, please ask for details. Guayaquil COLOMBIA Jul 21 Jul 31 Aug 18 Aug 28 Sep 15 Sep 25 Service Level: Superior Age Group: Exclusively 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts, twin share) Transport: Private air-con coach, minicoach or van, plane Meals: 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $100 (cash only) for a Galápagos National Park entry fee, USD $10 INGALA fee and USD $5 for the Isabela Island Tax Group Leader: Tour Manager & English-speaking local guide Group Size: Max 30 Tour Code: COQOGY You might like ECUADOR PERU Tena Baños Extend Your Trip Galápagos & Andes (26 days, to ) (COQOLI/COQOLIT) Fr $6,845 The barely-touched archipelago of the Galápagos Islands, nestled off the Ecuadorian coast has fascinated visitors since their most famous guest, Charles Darwin, landed there in An island-hopping holiday, where you stay on land rather than on a cruise boat, gets you closer to the locals and in tune with the rhythm of daily life. The rugged volcanic landscapes of the Galápagos, when combined with the best of mainland Ecuador, gives you the chance not only to see out-of-this-world wildlife but to tick off two World Heritage Sites, salsa the night away with locals and hike the world s largest active crater - the list is endless! Welcome to, the beautiful capital of Ecuador. Meet your group and meander s sites with your expert guide who will teach you all about this city and the history of the Inca and the Spanish invasion, then enjoy the best views from Panecillo. Later, visit the Equator line and wander between two hemispheres! Tonight, get to know your travel companions over a sociable dinner. (D) / Tena / Baños Head out of the city and into the lush jungle with spectacular views en route to Tena, an attractive city in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. Enjoy a dip into thermal springs and visit a hummingbird sanctuary. With two broad rivers intersecting at the city s heart, there are loads of rafting and kayaking options here. Alternatively, you can visit an indigenous community before it s back on the road. You ll see Chimborazo, Ecuador s highest mountain, on your way to Baños, a small town nestled snugly under the still-active Tungurahua Volcano. (2B, D) Baños / Guayaquil You have a totally free day to explore as you see fit! This small town is situated in a valley of waterfalls and hot springs, blessed with great weather and outdoor activities galore. Get out there and visit the hot springs, go horseback riding, abseiling, rafting, ziplining or mountain biking. Tonight, go native and learn to dance salsa at the included lesson. On Day 5, it s on to the economic hub and largest city of Ecuador, Guayaquil. Discover this cosmopolitan city, which is starting to challenge as Ecuador s new cultural hotspot. A walk down the promenade with the city s colourful Cerro Santa Ana district as your backdrop is a must! Tonight, enjoy drinks on an evening river cruise. (2B) Guayaquil / Isabela Island Catch a flight to Baltra in the Galápagos Islands. Cross over the waterway onto the main island of Santa Cruz, to check out the old lava tunnels and see the incredible giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Not something you d come across on a normal day! Later on you ll take a boat ride to Isabela Island, a nature haven that s home to land and sea life that will astound and amaze you. Start Day 7 off with a walk to the Wall of Tears to learn about the island s fascinating human history. On return watch out for colourful fish on your snorkelling experience in the underground lava tubes. In the afternoon, enjoy an included kayak adventure excursion to visit some marine iguanas and maybe even spot some of the elusive Galápagos penguins. (2B, L, D) Isabela Island / Santa Cruz Island / San Cristobal Island Start the day with a visit to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre before heading over to Santa Cruz Island. It s all about relaxation here as you visit the supremely beautiful Tortuga Bay for an indulgent stroll along the beach and a swim. On Day 9, you ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you can uncover some of the Galápagos interesting history and learn about different species of tortoises and land iguanas. Later, you ll head to San Cristobal Island, where you re bound to spot a bathing sea lion or two! Tonight, you can head out with the group to a lovely local spot where you can enjoy some drinks whilst watching the sun go down. (2B) San Cristobal Island / Guayaquil Embark on a coastal cruise for some native bird spotting and then hit the water in search of puffer fish and cute sea lion pups. You ll snorkel around Kicker Rock looking out for manta rays, starfish and maybe the Galápagos shark before relaxing on the stunning Puerto Grande beach. Later on, head back into town and indulge into the Galápagos barbecue feast. Next morning, take in the beauty of the island on a bike tour before flying back to Guayaquil on the mainland where your amazing adventure wraps up on arrival. (2B, L, D) CALL TO BOOK 79

43 THE ECUADOR EXPERIENCE $1, S Experience a homestay in the Amazon Consult with a local shaman Soak in the hot springs of Baños Ride by train to the Devil s Nose Chill out on Ecuador s Pacific beaches Hike to a volcano or go river rafting Spend time with indigenous people Roam the amazing market of Otavalo Jan 09 Jan 26 Feb 13 Mar 02 Mar 13 Mar 30 Apr 17 May 04 May 15 Jun 01 Machalilla NP Guayaquil Jun 12 Jun 29 Jul 17 Aug 03 Aug 07 Aug 24 Sep 11 Sep 28 Oct 09 Oct 26 San Clemente Alausí ECUADOR Otavalo Baños Riobamba Nov 06 Nov 23 Dec 04 Dec 21 Dec 18 Jan 04 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Simple hotels (12 nts), Amazon community stay (2 nts), overnight bus (1 nt), indigenous community homestay (2 nts, possibly multishare) Transport: Public bus, truck, motorised canoe, train Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAREE My Own Room Available: Fr $249 You might like Tena Add on the Galápagos Islands Check out pages for our sailing trips and pages 78, 79 and 82 for our exciting range of land-based tours of the Galápagos TWITTER.COM/STATRAVELUS Ecuador is perhaps best known for the Galápagos Islands, but the mainland has a whole range of other environments and experiences on offer and this tour is the perfect way to see them. You ll dive straight into the Amazon jungle where you ll get to meet a local shaman and come out ready for a dip in the hot springs of Baños. A railway engineering feat will take you to the Devil s Nose, and you ll travel from the Avenue of the Volcanoes to relaxing Pacific coast beaches before visiting an indigenous community and stocking up on souvenirs at the markets in Otavalo. Now, what were those islands called again? / Tena Arrive in any time and head out to explore before meeting your group in the evening. On Day 2, travel by bus along winding roads to Tena, in the tropical rainforest of the Amazon Basin. Here, optional activities include visiting an animal rescue centre, caving and whitewater rafting. Amazon Jungle Spend two nights at a jungle homestay with an indigenous community where you can experience local traditions. Take guided hikes through the rainforest to search for wildlife and hear all about the natural environment. The biodiversity of this region beggars belief; mammals include armadillos, honey bears, sloth, bats, jaguar and monkeys, while overhead fly up to 1,000 species of chirpy tropical birds. Visit a local shaman and learn about Quichua history and culture. (2B, 2L, 2D) Baños Journey by bus to the popular resort of Baños, nestled in the hills of the Andes and renowned for its thermal springs and hot pools. Arise early to watch the dawn creep over the mountains as you lie back in the relaxing waters. Activity options around Baños include hiking, horse riding and biking. Alausí Travel by bus to Alausí where you will have free time to explore the town, which offers glimpses of three of the highest peaks in the Andes - Chimborazo, Carihuairazo and Tunguragua. Devil s Nose / Guayaquil This morning, board the train for an included excursion to the Devil s Nose. The construction of this railway was an engineering feat as part of the line descends 1,000m down a steep, rocky slope on a series of switchbacks. Travel by bus to Ecuador s largest city, Guayaquil. Explore the city checking out Bolivar Park and the Old South Market before an optional nighttime cruise on the Guayas River. Puerto Lopez & Machalilla National Park Continue along the coast by bus to the beach town of Puerto Lopez. Relax in a beachfront hammock or explore the area. Visit a local community reforestation project, head to Isla de la Plata to see the nesting blue-footed boobies, hike in Machalilla National Park or go diving, snorkelling or whale watching (seasonal). On Day 12, you ll return to by overnight bus. Today is a free day in. Take an optional city tour, ride in the cable car up the nearby volcano or simply relax in one of the city s many cafés and restaurants. San Clemente Travel by bus to the indigenous community of San Clemente. Take hikes to learn about the medicinal plants or trek up the Imbabura Mountain. It s a great chance to interact with the locals and learn about their traditional ways of life. There s an optional cultural evening and dinner show. (B, 2L, 2D) Otavalo / Hop on a public bus to the market town of Otavalo. Here you can visit Peguche waterfall, Cotacachi leather market or hike around Cuicocha Lake. Explore the enormous Otavalo handicraft market which is filled with items made by local artisans. Return to by bus for one last overnight stay. (B) This mainland adventure in Ecuador comes to an end at any time today, but you may wish to head over to the Galápagos Islands to add on one of our sailing adventures? 80 VISIT

44 ECUADOR QUEST INLAND $999 & AMAZON $1,649 8 S 16 S Soak up the rich culture within the old and new cities of Bathe in the thermal springs at Baños surrounded by mountains Feel like a local at an authentic jungle homestay in the Amazon Live like a local with a Quichua family in a traditional homestay Bathe in one of the thermal springs that flow from a volcano Browse the handicraft markets for exquisite leather gifts in Otavalo Arrive into, the Ecuadorian capital. Explore historial buildings and churches in the old town and travel by trolley (streetcar) to the New Town. Visit s famous landmark, a rounded hill offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanos. Baños Travel to unspoilt Baños, directly translated as baths, and what the town is famous for. Known for its gorgeous thermal springs that come from the base of Tungurahua Volcano; this is the perfect place to indulge in a soak in the hot springs whilst admiring the stunning mountain backdrop. Locals swear these baths are good for your health! If you re eager to get active and explore, choose optional horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and climbing in the mountains, or hop on a raft for a trip down the River Patate. (B) Amazon Homestay Hop on a bus to the Amazon Jungle region. Keep your eyes peeled as the beautiful landscapes and climate alter significantly as you leave the mountains for the exotic tropical rainforest. Spend two nights experiencing local life with a Quichua family. (2B, 2L, 2D) Otavalo / Otavalo, famous for its friendly people and market, is the perfect place to browse and search for exquisite handmade goods, from colourful woollen goods to fine leatherware. If you re looking to soak up some culture, head to the pre-dawn local animal market. Back to on Day 7 and hit the town in a Salsoteca for your last night! With a camera full of photos, bid farewell and depart at any time. (B) / Papallacta Hot Springs Arrive in the Ecuadorian capital of at any time. The next day head to Papallacta Hot Springs, to bathe in one of the best mineral springs in Ecuador and to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. (B) Amazon Homestay Leave the mountains behind and enter the lush tropical Amazon rainforest. Stay with a Quichua family near the community of Cando and learn their traditional beliefs and customs as well as their many practical uses for the jungle s wealth of natural products. (2B, 2L, 2D) Jungle Lodge Travel to a jungle lodge on the Napo River; one of the Amazon s two major tributaries. Take a wander and paddle along on a canoe to learn about the area s natural history. Opt to brave thundering rapids of an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip on the Napo. (2B, 2L, 2D) Baños / Cuenca Return to the mountains to Baños or baths and the thermal springs that flow from the base of Tungurahua Volcano. As a perfect setting for outdoor activities, try horseback riding or hiking whilst you re here. On Day 9 head to Cuenca, considered the most beautiful city in Ecuador with its cobbled streets and shady plazas. (B) Cuenca / / Cayambe Fly back to before heading to the village of Cayambe the next day. Stay in a 400-year-old hacienda nestled at the base of Cayambe Volcano and opt to hike to the volcano s glacier. Otavalo / Visit the beautiful town of Otavalo to browse its world famous handicrafts market for hidden gems. Your tour ends on Day 16. Jan 12 Jan 19 Feb 09 Feb 16 Mar 09 Mar 16 Apr 06 Apr 13 May 04 May 11 Jun 01 Jun 08 Jun 29 Jul 06 Jul 27 Aug 03 Aug 24 Aug 31 Sep 21 Sep 28 Oct 19 Oct 26 Nov 16 Nov 23 Dec 14 Dec 21 Otavalo Baños Tena/Amazon Jan 07 Jan 22 Jan 21 Feb 05 Feb 08 Feb 23 Feb 18 Mar 05 Mar 04 Mar 19 Mar 18 Apr 02 Apr 05 Apr 20 Apr 15 Apr 30 May 13 May 28 Jun 10 Jun 25 Jul 08 Jul 23 Jul 22 Aug 06 Aug 05 Aug 20 Sep 02 Sep 17 Sep 16 Oct 01 Oct 28 Nov 12 Nov 11 Nov 26 Nov 25 Dec 10 Dec 06 Dec 21 Dec 20 Jan 04 Otavalo Cayambe Papallacta Tena/Amazon Baños ECUADOR My Own Room Available: Fr $299 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (5 nts), cabañas (2 nts, multi-share) Transport: Private van, public bus Meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASEEQ Cuenca My Own Room Available: Fr $899 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotel (9 nts), lodge (2 nts), cabañas (2 nts, multishare), hacienda (2 nts) Transport: Bus, plane, taxi, motorised canoe, 4x4, truck Meals: 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAEIA CALL TO BOOK 81

45 HIGHLIGHTS OF ECUADOR $3, S Explore the jungle by canoe Soak in the hot springs in Papallacta Stay with a local Quichua family Browse for handmade gifts in Otavalo Stay in a 400-year-old hacienda Sail around the Galápagos Islands Encounter unique and curious wildlife Snorkel in crystal-clear Pacific waters Jan 07 Jan 26 Feb 18 Mar 09 Mar 04 Mar 23 Mar 18 Apr 06 Apr 15 May 04 Galapagos Islands May 13 Jun 01 Jun 10 Jun 29 Jul 08 Jul 27 Jul 22 Aug 10 Aug 05 Aug 24 ECUADOR Tena/Amazon Papallacta Cayambe Otavalo Cuenca Sep 02 Sep 21 Sep 16 Oct 05 Oct 28 Nov 16 Nov 11 Nov 30 Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), cabañas (2 nts, multishare), hacienda (2 nts), motorised yacht (3 nts) Transport: Public bus, plane, motorised canoe, yacht, Zodiac, pickup truck Meals: 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included; USD $10 for a Tourist Transit Card at Airport; USD $100 (cash only) for a Galápagos National Park entry fee Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on Days 1-15, local naturalist guides in the Galápagos, local representative in Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAEF06HB My Own Room Available: Fr $899 Banõs Get to know Ecuador inside out in this ultimate adventure! Explore the Amazon jungle by canoe, hike through tropical rainforest and stay with a local Quichua family to experience their lifestyle first-hand. Browse quaint colonial towns, scour indigenous handicraft markets and hike up volcanoes then fly over to the Galápagos Islands to spend three nights exploring these exquisite islands by yacht; swimming, snorkelling and admiring the famous Galápagos land tortoises along the way! With stunning mountains, lush cloud forest, crystal-clear waters and striking volcanoes, this is the perfect way to explore Ecuador / Papallacta Hot Springs Arrive into at any time and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Explore the old and new cities of this Ecuadorian capital, and take in the panoramic views from El Panecillo. On Day 2, head to the Papallacta hot springs where you can chill out with a glass of wine in the mineral hot springs. (B) Amazon Homestay It s off to the Amazon jungle, passing mountains and tropical rainforest along the way. Spend two nights with a local Quichua family in order to experience the jungle lifestyle first-hand. (2B, 2L, 2D) Jungle Lodge Head to your jungle lodge along the Napo River today. Take a stroll, then paddle along in a canoe and learn about the natural history of this area. If you re after an adrenalin rush, why not take to the tumbling rapids in an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip. (2B, 2L, 2D) Baños Return to the unspoiled town of Baños where you can relax in the thermal springs at the base of the Tungurahua Volcano. A perfect setting to explore the outdoors, why not get active and spend your day exploring this green mountain town either by horseback, hiking or mountain biking? Cuenca / Head to the colonial town of Cuenca taking in the spectacular views along the way. Wander around its cobbled streets and take a trip to one of its art galleries or museums in order to learn about its eventful past. If you fancy hiking, head to the Cajas National Park for crystal clear lakes and beautiful scenery or take a trip to discover the nearby Inca ruins. Fly to in the evening of Day 11. Cayambe Your next stop is the village of Cayambe where you ll stay in a 400-year-old hacienda nestled at the base of the Cayambe Volcano. Explore the beautiful area surrounding the hacienda, swim in its indoor pool or if you re feeling energetic, travel to the base of the volcano s glacier and hike back down. Otavalo / Travel to the beautiful area of Otavalo where you ll have the chance to browse for souvenirs and handmade gems in its world-famous handicrafts market. Return to in the evening of Day 15. Galápagos Islands Fly to Baltra in the Galápagos Islands and transfer to meet your boat for a three-night cruise around this stunning, unspoilt and utterly unique archipelago. You ll visit several islands to enjoy the volcanic scenery and to view the abundant wildlife, which is not at all afraid of humans (due to the lack of natural predators). You will have daily opportunities for swimming and snorkelling to see marine life such as sea lions, sea turtles and possibly even sharks, plus every day there will be shore excursions with a qualified naturalist guide to learn about the Islands natural history and wildlife. You will also have the chance to visit the remarkable Charles Darwin Research Centre to see the famous giant Galápagos land tortoises which can live for up to 200 years! (3B, 3L, 3D) Disembark the boat in the morning and transfer across the island of Santa Cruz to the island of Baltra in time for your flight back to. Stop by a peña for some tasty local cuisine and dance the night away on your last night with the group. Your tour ends at any time on Day 20. (B) 82 VISIT

46 ECUADOR MULTI-SPORT ECUADOR AMAZON, $899 HOT SPRINGS & VOLCANOES $1,999 9 S 9 S Navigate the wild rapids as you head out whitewater rafting Trek through lush cloud forest to the active Tunguragua Volcano Whizz down the Cotopaxi volcano on a mountain bike Explore the Amazon jungle with an expert naturalist guide Pamper yourself in the beautiful Papallacta hot springs Browse the handicraft markets in Otavalo for souvenirs Roll into at any time and make the most of this vibrant town. Explore its old and new cities and head to the major landmark of El Panecillo or the little bread loaf, for panoramic city views. Tena Jump on board a bus to the jungle town of Tena and admire the towering green mountains and waterfalls along the way. On Day 3, navigate the wild rapids and tumbling waters of the Jatunyaku River on an included full day whitewater rafting expedition. (B, L) Arrive in and take the included transfer to your comfortable and centrally-located hotel. Get out and about to see the landmarks. Amazon Lodge Fly to Coca then travel into the tropical rainforest by motorized canoe to the luxurious La Selva Lodge. Meet your local guide then head out into the Amazon jungle. Why not rent a canoe, climb the canopy tower or go wildlife spotting? This evening, sip on a cocktail and chill in the hammock of your own stylish cabaña. (2B, L, 2D) Baños Today you re off to the unspoiled mountain town of Baños or Baths. Spend the afternoon chilling in the warm thermal springs at the base of the Tungurahua Volcano or opt to get active and explore. Llangantes National Park / Baños Get up and ready for your trek through the Llangantes National Park. Hike through lush cloud forest taking in the spectacular views along the way before arriving at your campsite where you ll spend a night under the stars. Keep your camera ready for more lush views on Day 6 before you re whisked off back to Baños. (B, L, D) Baños / Lasso Treat yourself and any sore muscles to a soak in the gorgeous local hot springs of Baños on your free morning before you head to Lasso. Cotopaxi / Get ready for an adrenalin rush as you cycle down the Cotopaxi Volcano, starting your descent at 4,000 metres above sea level. Catch your breath at the bottom as you tuck into a picnic lunch then head to for a final night out. Your trip ends on Day 9. (B, L) Papallacta Hot Springs Board your plane to, before being whisked off to the Papallacta Hot Springs resort. Bathe in the mineral hot springs, treat yourself to an optional spa treatment or grab your walking boots for a hike around the lush cloud forest for breathtaking mountain views. (B) Otavalo Plunge into the hot springs one last time before jumping on board your transfer to San Clemente. Enjoy lunch with the local people of this traditional Andean community before travelling on to Otavalo where you ll spend the night in a historic hacienda. (B, L) Baños Browse the world-famous handicrafts market for souvenirs this morning before continuing on to Baños. Relax in the beautiful hot springs or head out horseback riding, hiking or mountain biking. (2B) Today, browse a small leather-making town for unique handmade crafts and clothes. This evening, stop by a vibrant peña for local cuisine then head for a boogie in a salsoteca. Depart on Day 9. (2B) Jan 25 Feb 02 Feb 22 Mar 02 Mar 22 Mar 30 Apr 19 Apr 27 May 17 May 25 Jun 07 Jun 15 Jun 21 Jun 29 Jul 12 Jul 20 Aug 09 Aug 17 Sep 06 Sep 14 Oct 04 Oct 12 Nov 01 Nov 09 Nov 26 Dec 04 Dec 27 Jan 04 Cotopaxi ECUADOR COLOMBIA Tena Baños Sangay N.P. My Own Room Available: Fr $369 Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotel (7 nts), Camping (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, private van, hiking, biking, rafting Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEEM Jan 31 Feb 08 Feb 28 Mar 08 Mar 23 Apr 05 Apr 25 May 03 May 23 May 31 Jun 20 Jun 28 Jul 18 Jul 26 Aug 15 Aug 23 Sep 12 Sep 20 Oct 10 Oct 18 Nov 07 Nov 15 Dec 05 Dec 13 Trip Style: Comfort Service Level: Upgraded Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Comfort hotels (4 nts), hacienda (1 nt), jungle lodge (2 nts), resort (1 nt) Transport: Private van, boat, plane Meals: 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEAV Otavalo Baños ECUADOR COLOMBIA Coca/Amazon Jungle Papallacta PERU CALL TO BOOK 83

47 QUITO Shoestring rock solid rock solid JHOMANA GUESTHOUSE $19 DORM HOTEL $89 SINGLE HOTEL $138 $26 TWIN/DOUBLE EUGENIA $48 TWIN/DOUBLE QUITO $79 PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST Located in an old colonial house in s popular Mariscal area, Jhomana boasts a large sun terrace and patio as well as an onsite restaurant serving tasty treats. Cosy up with a DVD in the TV lounge, complete with fireplace. Its spacious, clean rooms come with en suites and Wi-Fi, plus there s a complimentary daily brekkie included. In the heart of the main cultural area, this boutique, family-run hotel captures s spirit. Enjoy the unique charms of the bar and try the traditional café. The spacious en suite rooms have a graceful tone and offer cable TV and minibar. There s also free Internet, a safety box and laundry services. SINGLE TWIN/DOUBLE This hotel s gorgeous Art Deco building is perched on a hill, giving unbeatable 360-degree city and mountain views. Stroll through the sprawling gardens decked with native flora, hit the pool or gym, rejuvenate in the sauna or place your bets at the casino. The charming en suite rooms have plush furnishings, Wi-Fi and cable TV. CUYABENO LODGE UIOSHO UIOEUG UIOQUI $885 4 S Spot nocturnal wildlife on a guided night walk Learn about medicinal plants and try piranha fishing Swim in a lagoon and canoe down river at sunset Departs: Daily Accommodation: Rustic lodge (3 nts) Meals: 3 breakfast, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Transport: Includes return flights between & Lago Agrio plus transfers Tour Guide: English-speaking naturalist guide, native guide Tour Code: UIOCUY No trip to Ecuador is complete without a taste of jungle life and this trip puts you right in the heart and soul of the Amazon! Flying from, you ll transfer by bus and canoe to the Cuyabeno Lodge. This rustic eco-lodge powered by solar panels has a dining area and hammocks on the decking. After settling in, enjoy a night walk with an expert guide to observe the nocturnal wildlife. Learn about medicinal plants the following day before getting your teeth into piranha fishing! You ll spend a day in Cuyabeno reserve where you can walk in the rainforest at the shore of the lagoon, swim in the Aguas Negras, and by night, canoe down the river to try your luck at spotting some more rainforest wildlife such as caimens, monkeys and crocs. After an early breakfast on Day 4, journey upstream on the Cuyabeno River before it s time to fly back to. 84 VISIT

48 CASA DEL SUIZO LODGE Learn about the culture and traditions of a Quichua Village Discover how to use a blowgun and build a canoe Refresh in the pool and enjoy views from your terrace $284 3 S The beautiful La Casa del Suizo is an Amazonian Lodge at the shores of the great Rio Napo. Every room has electricity, hot water, a ceiling fan and terrace. Experience excursions into the rainforest accompanied by a native guide with indepth knowledge of the flora and fauna. Visiting a family in the small Quichua Village of Ahuano is a real highlight. You ll learn about their traditions and culture as well as how to make the traditional drink, Chicha. Take part in a blowgun target-shooting contest and build a canoe which can be used to navigate down river to the lodge. Back at the lodge take a dip in the pool and enjoy tasty meals in the outdoor dining area. COTOPAXI TREK View the picture perfect cone of Cotopaxi Volcano Hike in Cotopaxi National Park to crater lakes and Inca ruins Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped volcanoes $446 3 S Cotopaxi Volcano rises majestically above the Andean Cordilleras and is one of the most active volcanoes in Ecuador. With an almost perfect cone shape, it s known as a postcard-perfect volcano. On arrival in, transfer to your hotel. In the morning, pass through the Avenue of the Volcanoes enroute to Cotopaxi National Park, stopping at Limpiopungo lagoon and the Inca ruins of El Salitre. Afterwards, drive up the slopes of Cotopaxi and walk to a refuge at 4,800 metres-tall for a spectacular view of Cotopaxi. Spend your final day in the western Andean range where you ll view snow-capped volcanoes before returning to. Departs: Daily Accommodation: Lodge (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Tour Guide: Native guide Note: 3 or 4 nights options also available Tour Code: UIOSUI Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hotels (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Transport: Private transport with English speaking guide from airport & on day tours Tour Code: UIOCOT LOCAL LIVING ECUADOR AMAZON JUNGLE $649 7 S GALÁPAGOS ISLAND CONSERVATION & San Cristóbal Island, Ecuador $1, S + Spend four nights immersed in the jungle with a Quichua family Witness jungle marriage and shamanic healing ceremonies Challenge local schoolkids to a game of soccer on a community visit Help the locals with conservation projects Explore the idyllic beaches of San Cristobal Get face-to-face with the island s wildlife Arrive into and explore the city before meeting your group and tour leader. On Day 2, travel by bus and truck deep into the Amazon to spend the next four nights in rustic wooden huts with a Quichua family in their small village. Over the next three days, enjoy guided walks to viewpoints and waterfalls, natural mud face mask treatments, cooking classes to learn how to make chocolate and cassava beer and a canoe ride to an animal rescue centre. You ll also have time for optional whitewater rafting before returning to. The tour ends any time on Day 7. At this volunteering project, you ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the Galápagos Islands, a pristine habitat for endemic wildlife which needs your help conserving for future generations. The biological research station aims to sustain native highland forests by removing invasive plant species and replacing them with native vegetation, as well as working alongside local landowners to develop agricultural alternatives for food production. Your daily tasks will range from contributing to soil preparation and trail maintenance to organic farming. It can be hard work but is hugely rewarding. Trip Style: Local Living Service Level: Basic Departs: Selected Saturdays (Apr- Oct) Accommodation: Jungle lodge (4 nts), hotel (2 nts) Transport: Local bus, canoe, pickup truck Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $40-60 for meals not included Tour Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEJL Project Start Date: Saturdays Getting there: Flights included to/from San Cristobal Accommodation: Simple hotel (2 nts), shared basic & rustic cabin (7 nts) Meals: Most meals included Stay Longer: Fr $369 per week Notes: USD$100 Galápagos Islands Park entry & USD $10 Tourist Transit visa not included (pay in cash) Tour Code: GATSEVGT CALL TO BOOK 85

49 COLOMBIA TOP 5 MUST-DO s 1. WALLOW IN A VOLCANIC MUD CRATER 2. EXPLORE COLONIAL CARTAGENA 3. SIP ESH COFFEE AT A PLANTATION 4. LAZE ON WHITE CARIBBEAN BEACHES 5. SAMPLE A ZINGY SEAFOOD CEVICHE CARTAGENA SANTA MARTA (TAYRONA N.P.) TOLU MANIZALES MEDELLIN BOGOTÁ ARMENIA

50 COLOMBIA HIGHLIGHTS COLOMBIA $1,999 EXPERIENCE $2,999 Bogotá Bogotá 12 S Bogotá Bogotá 12 S Soak up the colonial charm in the historic trading port of Cartagena Lay back on beautiful Caribbean beaches on the Rosario Islands Spend a cosy night sleeping in a hammock in Tayrona National Park Visit coffee plantations in Armenia and enjoy its smooth flavour Soak in soothing hot springs in beautiful Santa Rosa del Cabal Explore vibrant Medellín, known as the City of Eternal Spring 01 Bogotá Arrive into Bogotá any time, and spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring Colombia s capital city. Meet up with your group tonight. 01 Bogotá Arrive into Bogotá at any time, catch the included transfer to your comfortable hotel and explore before meeting the rest of your group Cartagena Free time in Bogotá this morning before flying to Cartagena. This beautiful colonial city is split into a modern beach area and historic downtown, which you ll see on an included city tour. You can also take an optional chiva bus tour by night and visit the white sand beaches of Islas del Rosario National Park. Here, the equivalent to a spa treatment is a soak in the crater of the Totumo mud volcano. (B) Tolu Yet to be fully discovered by foreigners, this charming, laid-back beach town is popular with holidaying Colombians. Tuck into seafood specialities, party in the unique local discos and enjoy an included boat and snorkelling tour of the pristine San Bernardo Islands. Santa Marta / Taganga / Tayrona National Park Travel along the coast to Colombia s oldest city, Santa Marta, popular for its colonial architecture, beaches and nature reserves. Continue to Taganga, the launch pad for Tayrona N.P. Head off on an overnight excursion to sleep in hammocks within the park, which boasts wildlife including black howler monkeys, iguanas, eagles and condors. Visit the pre-hispanic village of Pueblito while hiking to waterfalls and lookouts with great views of the Sierra Nevada. (B, L, D) Bogotá Return to Santa Marta and fly back to Bogotá where you ll have a free afternoon and evening for an optional city tour or to explore on your own. Your adventure ends after breakfast on Day 12. (B) Armenia Travel to Armenia, where it s time to wake up and smell the coffee! Enjoy an included jeep tour to small villages, a coffee plantation and the botanic gardens, plus free time for optional activities such as kayaking, rafting and the canopy zipline. (2B, 2L, 2D) Salento / Santa Rosa Journey to the cute and colourful coffee village of Salento, with its incredible landscapes of mountains and river valleys. Take a tour to a coffee farm and taste the finest local blends. Next up, Santa Rosa, for a relaxing visit to its thermal hot springs. (2B, 2L, 2D) Medellín Continue north to Medellín for two days in this vibrant, cultural city with plenty of free time to explore the many attractions. Ride the cable car, take in the views from Nutibara Hill or sign up for an optional paragliding excursion or Pablo Escobar tour. (2B) Cartagena Fly to the Caribbean coast and World Heritage Site of Cartagena, an historic, walled city with great beaches and vibrant nightlife. Day 10 is free for an optional boat trip over to the Islas del Rosario N.P. with its stunning beaches, or for soaking in Totumo mud volcano. (3B) Bogotá Fly back to Bogotá for an afternoon and evening to discover its world-class museums, colonial churches, lively street art and pulsating nightlife. The tour comes to an end at any time on Day 12. (2B) Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts), hammock (1 nt) Transport: Plane, public bus, boat Meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASMCH Jan 04 Jan 15 Mar 08 Mar 19 May 10 May 21 Jun 07 Jun 18 Jul 12 Jul 23 Aug 09 Aug 20 Sep 06 Sep 17 Oct 11 Oct 22 Nov 08 Nov 19 Dec 13 Dec 24 Cartagena Tolu Bogotá COLOMBIA Santa Marta (Tayrona NP) Trip Style: Comfort Service Level: Upgraded Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Comfort hotels (11 nts) Transport: Bus, van, jeep, plane Meals: 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $ for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max 15, Avg 6 Tour Code: GASMCE My Own Room Available: Fr $699 My Own Room Available: Fr $999 Feb 19 Mar 02 Mar 19 Mar 30 Apr 26 May 07 May 24 Jun 04 Jun 18 Jun 29 Jul 26 Aug 06 Aug 20 Aug 31 Sep 17 Sep 28 Oct 25 Nov 05 Nov 19 Nov 30 Dec 17 Dec 28 Santa Rosa del Cabal Cartagena Salento Armenia COLOMBIA Medellin Bogotá CALL TO BOOK 87

51 BOGOTÁ & BEYOND SHOESTRING rock solid SHOESTRING CHOCOLATE HOSTEL, BOGOTÁ $19 DORM HOTEL VILLA $93 SINGLE ALUNA CASA $32 $29 TWIN/DOUBLE COLONIAL, CARTAGENA $68 TWIN/DOUBLE HOSTEL, SANTA MARTA $44 PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST You ll find this backpacker HQ in the colourful district of La Candelaria. It boasts a kitchen with free Colombian coffee, Wi-Fi access and friendly staff. Hang out with fellow travellers in the courtyard, swap stories and books in the lounge or chill in a hammock. Both dorms and private rooms are available. This delightful hotel is full of character and known for outstanding hospitality. Located in a colonial neighbourhood within the historic fortress walls, soak up the sun on the rooftop terrace or catch up with friends back home using the free Wi-Fi. All rooms have private bathrooms, some have a balcony with city or courtyard views. SINGLE TWIN/DOUBLE Designed around a 1920s Spanish villa, this hostel is a mix of old and new. Centred around a shaded courtyard, there are three floors, a roof terrace that overlooks the Sierra Nevada and an inhouse café. Situated in the historical centre of Santa Marta, it s the perfect base for the nearby attractions of Parque Tayrona. BOGPLH CTGHVC SMRALU BOGOTÁ WELCOME PACKAGE $266 MEDELLIN & PABLO $376 3 S ESCABAR ADVENTURE 4 S Make your stay in lively Bogotá simple with this welcome package. A private transfer will whisk you to Casa Platypus. You ll have two nights with breakfast at this central hotel, complete with roof terrace. To help with your orientation, we ve included a half-day guided walking tour around the historic centre. You then have a day to explore on your own. Take a bike tour or join a cooking lesson at the hotel before taking your transfer back to the airport. Departs: Daily, Bogotá to Bogotá Accommodation: Hotel, standard double/ twin with bathroom (2 nts) Meals: Daily breakfast Includes: Private transfers, exursions as per itinerary, guide for transfer & walking tour Tour Code: BOGCOL Arrive in Medellin, once one of the most dangerous cities in the world, now a thriving metropolis. Check in, chill in a bar in Zona Rosa or relax in a garden hammock. Next day, explore the city; see Parque San Antonio with its Botero sculptures, the Metropolitan Cathedral and Nutibara Hill for panoramic views. Day 3, learn about Pablo Escobar, Colombia s infamous drug lord and the projects that fostered the city s change. Your tour ends on Day 4. Departs: Daily, Medellin to Medellin Accommodation: Hostel (3 nts) Meals: Daily breakfast Includes: All transfers, half day tour of Medellin city, half day Pablo Escobar tour Tour Code: MDEPET 88 VISIT

52 SANTA MARTA & PARQUE TAYRONA Santa Marta Santa Marta Spot monkeys as you hike through the Parque Tayrona jungle Wander along beautiful white sandy beaches Swim in the tranquil turquoise water of the Caribbean Sea $237 4 S Explore Colombia s beautiful Caribbean coast around Parque Tayrona. Arrive into Santa Marta on Day 1 where a private transfer will be waiting to take you to your accommodation. Next day, hit the white sand beaches, dense jungle and tropical mangroves of sprawling Parque Tayrona National Park. Hop onto a local boat at the Bay of Gayraca, then sail around the cove to Playa Cristal. This stunning beach is ideal for sunbathing and paddling between coral reefs, before returning to Santa Marta. You then have a free day in this charming coastal town before transferring back to the airport on Day 4. Explore, soak up the rays and check out the beach. Bliss! COFFEE REGION Manizales Manizales Tour a plantation to discover the secrets of coffee production Hike, ride or raft in the lush green countryside Learn about coffee tasting and how to make the perfect cuppa $218 4 S On arrival in the coffee region, you ll be picked up from Manizales bus station and transferred to your hotel. Day 2 is your chance to learn all about coffee on a tour of a plantation set on the steep hills typical of this area. The crop creates a green carpeting of coffee plants that extend to the horizon, interrupted only by fincas covered in flowers. You ll discover how coffee is prepared and toasted. The following day is free for you to take an optional tour. Head off rafting or horse riding, take a lesson in coffee tasting or learn how to prepare the perfect espresso and cappuccino. There is also plenty to explore in Manizales, before departing on Day 4. Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hotel single/double/twin room with bathroom (3 nt) Meals: 3 breakfasts Transport: Return airport transfers, included day trips Tour Code: SMRPRT Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hotel (3 nts) Transport: Bus station transfers Includes: Coffee plantation tour Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 dinners Tour Code: BOGCCZ CARTAGENA & ROSARIO ISLAND Cartagena Cartagena $547 4 S LOST CITY TREK Santa Marta Santa Marta $609 5 S Absorb the charm of vibrant, colourful Cartagena Learn about the castle and many monuments within the city Swim in the crystal clear waters around the Rosario Islands Sleep under the stars in a hammock Explore the Lost City (founded 650 years before Machu Picchu) Enjoy amazing views of this magical site This fabulous package offers a new adventure every day. After transferring to your hotel, enjoy a city tour of colourful Cartagena. Starting with Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa, you ll learn about its colonial history, fortress and many monuments and buildings. Continue on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) and to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas. On Day 2, cruise over the crystal clear waters to the Rosario Islands National Park where you ll spend a night in paradise. Go snorkelling, take a nature walk or laze around on the beautiful beaches. Head back to Cartagena the next day with plenty of time to explore. Your tour ends on Day 4. Venture deep into the jungle in search of the Lost City of Ciudad Perdida on this intrepid trek. Hike through indigenous villages, traverse the Buritaca river, sleep in hammocks under the stars and climb 1,200 mossy steps to reach one of the largest Tayrona cities in Latin America - Ciudad Perdida. The Lost City was founded in AD 800 some 650 years earlier than Machu Picchu but was only discovered in the 1970 s. You ll be amazed at the intricate staircases, meticulously built terraces, the complex system of pathways and gorgeous views of the surrounding landscapes. Start and finish your tour in Santa Marta. Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hotel twin (3 nts) Meals: Daily breakfast Transport: Private return airport transfers, return transport from hotel to pier to island Includes: Half day Cartagena city tour Tour Code: CTGRIS Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hammocks with mosquito nets (4 nts) Meals: All food during trek Transfers: Return transfers from Santa Marta are included Departs: Daily Tour Code: SMRLCT CALL TO BOOK 89