PDF - Contours Travel

Transcription

SOUTH AMERICA
CONTOURS TRAVEL
Since 1975
1
SOUTH AMERICA
HAS NEVER BEEN CLOSER
LAN Airlines and TAM Airlines form LATAM Airlines
Group which serves more than 130 destinations in
22 countries offering access to the largest network
of destinations and connections in South America.
LAN Airlines offers six flights per week from Sydney
to Santiago Chile via Auckland, plus three direct code
share flights operated by Oneworld partner Qantas.
2
Bienvenidos
There’s something about the exuberance and
passion of South America that gets under the skin
and keeps travellers coming back. The diversity
of travel experiences is simply breathtaking,
and each country has its own unique charm and
attractions.
It is a continent of amazing wildlife, dramatic
scenery and mighty rivers, with a fascinating human
story imprinted on it. South America has something
for every traveller. You can explore remote Inca
ruins, relax on heavenly beaches, trek across
deserts, visit remote Andean communities, dance
the tango in Buenos Aires, swim with sea lions in
the Galapagos, sample new world cuisine in Lima,
taste the fine wines in Chile or Argentina, take a
cruise along the Amazon River or around Tierra del
Fuego… the choices are endless.
Ever since my first
We have been
overland tour in 1975, operating tours
and in my subsequent to Latin America
trips
around
the & the Caribbean
continent, South America Islands for over
38 years!
has never ceased to
amaze me. Year after
year, the region has gradually improved its tourism
infrastructure. Recently I revisited Colombia and
was pleasantly surprised by the welcoming and
hospitable Colombian people, as well as the major
improvements to services and security. Highlights
were the wonderful Coffee Triangle, pre-Incan ruins,
national parks, beautiful Caribbean beaches and
UNESCO heritage cities.
We have been operating tours to Latin America and
the Caribbean Islands for over 38 years and we
are proud to present this comprehensive brochure
full of creative suggestions for your holiday. It is a
collection of our favourite places and a collation of
the team’s years of experience within the region.
All of our staff have lived, worked or travelled
extensively in Latin America and understand the
intricacies of travelling in this area.
E
IV
E
CON
S
Please refer to our new sections “Stays of Distinction”
and “Odd Spot” for unique and different travel
ideas. We also arrange “Special Interest Tours”
with local expert guides in birding, archaeology,
photography and much more. And look
TOUR
out for our 3 unique “Contours Exclusive”
X C LU S
itineraries.
If the destination you are looking for is not featured
in the brochure, please give us or your travel agent
a call. And if you are looking for an unforgettable
group tour, why not check out our Contours Collection
- Small Group Tours of South America, Mexico & Cuba
brochure.
Welcome to our Latin America.
Ted Dziadkiewicz
Managing Director, CONTOURS TRAVEL
3
book with us?
Why book Why
with
us?
When we design your itinerary, we do so using our extensive
experience and knowledge to provide you with the best
possible journey. We offer itineraries and information to allow
you to be able to relax and enjoy your holiday, knowing that
everything has been taken care of. We have a well-developed
network of operators who deliver the highest quality service
on the ground.
We have been offering tours to Latin America since 1975, and
we pride ourselves on being able to deliver the finest results
to best suit your needs.
Our experience and knowledge is reflected in the quality
and inclusions of our tailored itineraries and our guaranteed
services. Therefore, we would never compromise your holiday
by trying to compete with generic online products.
Booking through us ensures that you can travel with confidence,
knowing you are being looked after by Contours Travel and
our friends in Latin America.
Some Of The Many
Reasons Why You Should
Book With Contours Travel
 We have been the specialists in Mexico, Cuba, Caribbean,
South & Central America and Antarctica since 1975.
 We will ensure a level of care, safety and flexibility like no
other operator.
 We provide you with a comprehensive pre-departure kit
including 24-hour emergency contacts, a Spanish phrase
book and Contours Travel’s list of suggested reading,
movies, restaurants and much more to enhance your travel
experience.
 We reconfirm all onwards flights, as well as overland trips
by bus, boat or train.
 Being one of the pioneers in the region, we have longestablished relationships with our suppliers, ensuring
competitive prices and quality service.
 We promote products that are authentic and contribute
back to the communities we visit.
 Talk to us! We love Latin America and are passionate about
what we do. We are happy to share our knowledge in
order to offer more unique itineraries.
 Please visit www.contourstravel.com.au/testimonials to
read feedback from past clients.
Firstly we all want to thank you for your professional yet
personal touches in organising our Peru itinerary. You
were a pleasure to deal with and your recommendations/
suggestions were all sound; and the efforts you invested
in organising the ‘off the Gringo trail’ elements of the
itinerary were very much appreciated.
We all agree that we would not change one thing on our
itinerary if we had the chance over.
-Walters Family, May 2012
4
Reservations 1300135 391
Responsible Tourism
Contours Travel supports a number of community projects throughout Latin America. We
are working on increasing opportunities for the people in South America, and would like
to invite you to visit rural communities and experience the work of these organisations
firsthand. If you and your family or friends, social club or school would like to volunteer
for a project please contact us.
Contours Travel will donate 1% of total land costs for any client who includes a visit to
a participating program on their Latin American itinerary. Ask us for more details about
volunteering options in Latin America.
AGUA PURA
We believe clean
water should not be a
luxury for the few, but
a right for all people.
Buy a Sawyer Water Filter from us to take over to Peru during your holidays, and help
local communities & schools to have access to clean water, which as a result, will bring
better health.
A joint project of Contours Travel and Rotary Clubs of North Melbourne & Cuzco.
An incubator for small Guatemalan
businesses. They provide training, technical
services, marketing and financing to
farmers and coffee growers who need
help and direction to lift themselves out
of poverty.
Works with a number of different
communities in the Sacred Valley and
aims to increase opportunities through
ecological and sustainable commercial
ventures. Visit some of the rural
communities on unique day or overnight
tours or volunteer in one of their projects.
Volunteers work on daily tasks and
motivate the locals to conserve the native
biodiversity and their traditional arts and
techniques.
Their first focus is to transform schools into
a safe, happy learning environment for
the children in each community.
Peru’s Challenge welcomes you to spend
time working and learning alongside
local communities in the Cuzco area.
Peruvian charity supporting various
communities in the high Andes around the
Sacred Valley of Peru. Their mission is
to provide assistance in nutrition, health,
education and conservation promoting
long-term solutions.
In 2002 Hearts Cafe was established in
Ollantaytambo to help the communities.
Profits of Hearts Cafe are used to support
sustainable nutrition, health and education
projects throughout the highlands.
Created in 1989 to help assist low-income
patients at the Hospital for Women,
Futuro helps unemployed women through
the production and sale of innovative,
high quality handicrafts.
A not-for-profit branch of our Peruvian
partner Condor Travel. Their pilot project
is creating opportunities for local people:
children are given education and health
care, men have been trained as porters
for the Inca Trail and literacy and textile
classes have been offered to women. You
are invited to help in a range of activities.
If you would like to lend a hand, we encourage you
to prepare a small parcel to donate when travelling
to South America. Personal hygiene products and
school supplies would be greatly appreciated.
5
w w w .contourstravel .com . au
Planning Your Dream Holiday
HOW TO USE THIS BROCHURE
The first step in planning your trip has been successfully taken: you have decided to travel to Latin America! What comes next is easy, especially
with this brochure. Choose from one of the classic itineraries we recommend for first time travellers to Latin America- South American Dream,
Discover South America or Latin Tierra. Alternatively, use this brochure as a source of inspiration and ask us to create an itinerary especially for
you based on your interests and budget. This brochure will be essential in what will be an unforgettable trip.
ACCOMMODATION
COMPLETE SERVICE GUARANTEED
We book accommodation according to your preferences. We like to use
locally owned properties that stand out for their character and location
rather than international hotel chains, so that income derived from tourism
benefits the local community.
Types of Accommodation
Standard: Comfortable, well located properties with fine service.
First: Great location, lots of character and high service standards.
Deluxe: Exceptionally high standard of service, with an extensive range of
dining and amenities.
Stays of Distinction: These original and unique options do not fall into any
of the categories mentioned already. They range from historic haciendas on
coffee plantations to tented Eco Camps inside National Parks.
Every traveller’s needs are diverse and unique, so we make sure
everything is taken care of, from the very beginning to the end of
the trip. Any anxiety you may experience at first will disappear
as you ease into a hassle-free holiday. Forget about last minute
check-in and confirmations; we reconfirm all flights as well as
onward overland trips. We also provide emergency contacts and
will be able to assist you with any inconvenience that may arise.
After you book with us, you will receive detailed Pre-Departure
information. Our Pre-Departure Package includes:
Complete South American information, a list of recommended
books and movies to watch before you go, a set of vouchers, a
Hotel and Operator List including 24-hour emergency contacts,
a full colour itinerary, a Lonely Planet Latin America Phrasebook,
a list of recommended restaurants, a packing checklist, suitcase
tags and specific tour information (Galapagos, Patagonia,
Amazon, Inca Trail, etc.).
TOURING
Regardless of which touring option you choose, we ensure a level of attention,
safety and flexibility like no other operator. All tours and transfers (shared
or private) are provided in modern vehicles and are lead by expert local
English-speaking guides.
Private Tours: The most exclusive and flexible way to get to know a
destination using our expert local guides.
Shared Tours: Lower the cost of your trip and share your experiences with
travellers from all over the world.
Combined Tours: If you want the best of both worlds, some parts of your
trip can be enjoyed in private tours, and others can be experienced in
shared tours.
Small Group Tours: Travelling with your family, friends, or colleagues as
a small group is also an option. Create your own adventure and decide
which tours to do, the amount of free time in each destination and even
which meals to include. Another option is to go on a fully escorted tour
with one of our South American based Tour Leaders. Talk to us and we will
design the best itinerary to suit your needs.
Special Interest Tours: Want to combine a particular interest with travel
to Latin America? Ask our expert consultants about the Special Interest
Tours Contours Travel has to offer!
BUENOS AIRES
ALTITUDE SICKNESS
All of our itineraries are designed to reduce the possible
effects of altitude sickness by acclimatizing at lower altitude
and allowing more time for passengers to adjust. Contours
Travel deliberately spends a longer time moving from lower
altitude into the high Andes.
WEATHER
As South America is in the southern hemisphere the winter and
summer seasons are similar to Australia. However South America’s
enormous size means that weather varies hugely depending on
different latitudes and altitudes throughout the continent. The
wet season in the lowlands and tropics starts in December and
finishes in March.
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
CUZCO
Avg. Max
30
28
26
22
19
15
14
17
18
22
25
28
Avg. Low
20
19
17
13
10
7
7
8
9
13
15
18
Rainy Days
9
9
9
9
8
6
7
8
7
10
10
RIO DE JANEIRO
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Avg. Max
19
18
19
19
19
19
19
19
19
20
20
19
Avg. Low
6
6
6
4
2
0
0
1
3
5
6
6
9
Rainy Days
25
21
17
16
7
1
2
3
9
12
18
23
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
PUNTA ARENAS
Avg. Max
29
30
29
27
26
25
25
25
25
26
27
28
Avg. Max
Avg. Low
23
23
23
22
20
19
18
19
19
20
21
22
Avg. Low
7
7
6
4
2
1
1
1
2
3
4
5
Rainy Days
12
9
9
10
8
6
6
6
9
10
11
13
Rainy Days
15
14
15
14
13
11
11
12
11
10
13
14
High Season/ Best time to go!
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
15
14
13
13
9
4
3
4
7
10
12
14
Shoulder/ Low Season
GET INSPIRED @ www.contourstravel.com.au
Visit our website www.contourstravel.com.au to find useful information for your trip. Get first-hand suggestions from our globetrotting bloggers, tips
on the best restaurants in each destination, the latest news on Latin America, and plenty more on our website, Facebook and Twitter.
Connect With Us
facebook.com/contourstravel
twitter.com/ContoursTravel
Relax and enjoy the trip of a lifetime!
southamericatoursblog.com
Do not expect things to be the way they are at home. Patience, a sense of humour and an open mind are the most essential
items you can bring! Respect the cultures and traditions you experience and you will be readily welcomed by local people.
6
CONTENTS
Our World
OUR TOURS
SOUTH AMERICA DREAM
6
DISCOVER SOUTH AMERICA
8
Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina
Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia
LATIN TIERRA
10
ARGENTINA
PATAGONIA
CHILE
BOLIVIA
PERU
BRAZIL
AMAZON CRUISES
ECUADOR
GALAPAGOS IS.
COLOMBIA
VENEZUELA & GUIANAS
ANTARCTICA
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS
SOLO TRAVELLERS
ODD SPOT
TAILOR MADE TOURS
TERMS & CONDITIONS
12
15
19
22
24
32
35
38
42
46
48
50
54
56
58
59
61
Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina
B E R M UDA
BAHAMA S
Gulf of Mexico
CUBA
M EX IC O
HA ITI
Mexico City
E L S ALVA D O R
P U E RTO
RICO
JA MA IC A
BELIZE
G UA T E M A L A
D O MIN IC A N
REPU B L IC
ST. M A RTI N
GUAD E LOUP E
H O N D URA S
Caribbean Sea
ST. LUCI A
BARBADOS
N I C A RA GUA
Barranquilla Santa Marta
Caracas
Cartagena
Maracaibo
C O S TA RIC A
PA NA MA
ECUADOR
Galapagos Is.
Quito
Baños
Guayaquil
Cuenca
VENEZUELA
Merida
Medellin
Manizales
Pereira
Cali
T R I NI DA D
& TOBAGO
Bogota
F RE NCH
GUIANA
COLOMBIA
Otavalo
Coca
Equator
Yasuni N.P.
Devils Nose
Ingapirca
Iquitos
Latitude of Cape York
Natal
PERU
BOLIVIA
Lake Titicaca
Uyuni
Salar
Villazon
Easter Is.
Asuncion Sao Paulo
Iguazu
Falls
Ibera Marshlands
Pacific
Ocean
Temuco
Valdivia
Latitude of Hobart
Latitude of Dunedin
Puerto Varas
Puerto Montt
Mendoza
Valle
Rosario
Nevado
Buenos
Aires
Punta del Este
Montevideo
ARGENTINA
Puerto Madryn
Balmaceda
Perito Moreno Glacier
Map Key
Atlantic
Ocean
Neuquen
Bariloche
Punta Arenas
Tierra Ushuaia
del Fuego Cabo de
Hornos
Curitiba
URUGUAY
Mt. Fitz Roy
El Calafate
Puerto Natales
Rio de Janeiro
Porto Alegre
Cordoba
Patagonia
Express
San Rafael Glacier
Buzios
Paraty
Posadas
Viña del Mar
Valparaiso
Santiago
Latitude of Sydney
Latitude of Melbourne
Belo Horizonte
Pantanal
Bonito
Salta
Tucuman
CHILE
Latitude of Brisbane
Brasilia
PARAGUAY
Train to the Clouds
San Pedro de Atacama
Salvador
(Bahia)
Cuiaba
La Paz Santa Cruz
Oruro
Arica
Sucre
Potosi
Calama
Recife
BR A ZI L
Manu N. P.
Puerto Maldonado
Machu
Picchu
Madidi N.P.
Sacred Valley
Cuzco
Puno
Nazca
Colca Canyon
Arequipa
Paracas N.P.
Tropic of Capricorn
Fortaleza
Rio Amazonas
Kuelap
Lima
Latitude of Cairns
Fernando de
Noronha
Belem
Manaus
Chachapoyas
Chiclayo
Trujillo
GUYA NA
SURINAM E
Angel Falls
Falkland Is./ Malvinas
South
Georgia
Travel by air
Travel by land
Train tracks
Travel over water
Travel on foot
Road
Capital city
Main city
City/town or lodge
National park
Ruins
Train station
Mountain
Volcano
River
Lake
National park
Glacier
Air port
Cruise ship
Contents of maps
are not to scale
Antarctic Peninsula
7
South America Dream
22 DAYS
ARGENTINA • BRAZIL • PERU • BOLIVIA • CHILE
Amazon
PERU
Lima
Suggested Itinerary
Machu
Picchu
Cuzco BOLIVIA
L. Titicaca
Puno
BRAZIL
Let Contours Travel show you the highlights
La Paz
Iguazu
Falls
Santiago
Rio de
Janeiro
ARGENTINA
of South America! See Machu Picchu,
the Sacred Valley of the Incas & Cuzco,
the stunning waters of Lake Titicaca, the
exuberance of Rio de Janeiro’s beaches &
people, the spectacular Iguazu Falls and
the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires
Day 1 Buenos Aires
Fly to Buenos Aires. Transfer to your hotel.
HIGHLIGHTS
Unique! 2 half day tours in Buenos Aires
Dinner and Tango Show
Iguazu Falls and Devil’s Throat
Sugar Loaf and Corcovado Tour
Visit the Larco Herrera Museum in Lima
Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo
Visit
ruins and village
2 days at Machu Picchu Ruins
Tour of Cuzco & entry to 16 historical sites
More free time to explore Cuzco
the Altiplano between Cuzco and
Cross
Puno (optional Orient Express Train)
Taquile, Uros floating reed Islands
Visit
and Sun Island on Lake Titicaca
through the Valley of the Moon in
Walk
La Paz
Price
From $5,570
Per person, twin share based on tourist class
accommodation. Option to upgrade hotels.
Includes airfares within South America,
accommodation, round trip transfers, meals as
shown, entry fees and sightseeing as detailed on
a shared basis. (Option to have private services).
8
Day 2 Buenos Aires
Morning sightseeing tour of Southern Buenos
Aires. B*
Day 3 Buenos Aires
Morning Northern city tour. This evening enjoy
a dinner and a Tango Show at Esquina Carlos
Gardel. BD
Day 4 Buenos Aires/ Iguazu Falls
Morning at leisure to explore. Fly to the
mighty Iguazu Falls. B
Day 5 Iguazu Falls
Full day tour of the Argentine side of Iguazu
Falls including the Devil’s Throat Lookout. B
Day 6 Foz do Iguaçu/ Rio de Janeiro
Half day tour of the Brazilian side for the
best panoramic view of the falls. Fly to Rio
de Janeiro and transfer to your hotel in
Copacabana beach. B
Day 7 Rio de Janeiro
Full day tour of Rio including Christ the
Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain. BL
Day at leisure to explore. B
Day 9 Rio de Janeiro/ Lima
Fly to Lima and transfer to your hotel. B
Day 10 Lima
Half day sightseeing tour of Lima & Larco
Herrera Museum. B
Day 11 Lima/ Cuzco
Fly to Cuzco. Free day to adjust to the altitude. B
Day 12 Cuzco
Half day tour of the main sights of Cuzco. B
Day 13 Cuzco/ Sacred Valley
Full day tour through the Sacred Valley,
including a visit to Pisac market and
Ollantaytambo village and ruins. BL
Day 14 Sacred Valley/ Machu Picchu
Travel by the Vistadome train to explore the
famous ruins of Machu Picchu. A guided tour
of the ruins and lunch is included today. BL
Day 15 Machu Picchu/ Cuzco
Return to the ruins early this morning to watch
the sunrise. Free time before returning to
Cuzco afternoon. B
Day 16 Cuzco
Free day. B
Day 17 Cuzco/ Puno
Full day bus tour across the Altiplano to Puno
with stops at Andahuaylillas, Raqchi and
Sicuani on the way (option to travel by Orient
Express Andean Explorer train). BL
Day 18 Puno
Morning tour visiting Uros floating reed
Islands on Lake Titicaca. BL
Day 19 Puno/ Sun Island/ La Paz
Travel by coach & catamaran from Puno to La
Paz with a visit to Copacabana & Sun Island
en route. BL Option to overnight on Sun Island.
Day 20 La Paz
Half day sightseeing tour with stops at the
Valley of the Moon and Witches’ Market. B
Day 21 La Paz/ Santiago
Morning at leisure. Fly to Santiago and
transfer to your hotel. B
Day 22 Santiago
Free morning. Panoramic city tour and
evening transfer to the airport. Option to
extend your trip to the wine country, Lakes
District or Patagonia. B
*B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Weaving in Puno
9
Discover South America
32 DAYS
CHILE • ARGENTINA • BRAZIL • PERU • BOLIVIA
PERU
Lima
Machu
Picchu
Puerto Maldonado
Cuzco
L. Titicaca
Puno
La Paz
BOLIVIA
BRAZIL
Ideal for those with a little more time to
Iguazu
Falls
Rio de
Janeiro
CHILE
ARGENTINA
explore this wonderful continent. See the
traditional highlights of Peru, Bolivia,
Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls and Buenos
Aires at a leisurely pace... A visit to the
Andean Lakes District is included for an
extensive South American experience.
Santiago
Buenos
Aires
Puerto
Varas
Bariloche
Day 1 Santiago
Arrive Santiago and transfer to your hotel.
Highlights

Lakes Crossing between Argentina & Chile
Buenos Aires Dinner & Tango Show
Sugar Loaf and Corcovado Tour
Iguazu Falls & Devil’s Throat
Visit the Larco Herrera Museum in Lima
Jungle with Native Guides in Peru
Amazon
(option to do an Amazon Cruise)
the Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo
Visit
ruins & village
2 days of Machu Picchu Ruins
Tour of Cuzco & entry to 16 historical sites
More time to explore Cuzco
Cross the Altiplano between Cuzco & Puno
Taquile, Uros floating reed Islands &
Visit
Sun Island on Lake Titicaca
through the Valley of the Moon in
Walk
La Paz
Chile’s vibrant capital, Santiago
Price
From $8,560
shown, entry fees & sightseeing as detailed on
a shared basis. (option to have private services).
10
Day 2 Santiago
Enjoy a half day city sightseeing tour. B*
Day 10 Buenos Aires/ Rio de Janeiro
Fly to Rio de Janeiro. Day at leisure to enjoy
Copacabana Beach. B
Fly to Puerto Montt & transfer to the lakeside
village of Puerto Varas. B
Full day tour of Rio de Janeiro’s most beautiful
& famous sights. Visit Corcovado followed by
a traditional Brazilian BBQ lunch and board
a cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain BL
Day 4 Puerto Varas
Day 3 Santiago/ Puerto Varas
Day at leisure. Optional tours to Chiloe Island,
Frutillar & Puerto Octay available. B
Day 5 Puerto Varas/ Bariloche
Start the spectacular Andean Lakes Crossing
by bus and boat. Travel to Petrohue across
Lago Todos Los Santos and via Peulla (Note:
Between May & Aug the crossing includes 1
night in Peulla). Cross from Puerto Frias to
Puerto Blast and Puerto Pañuelo. Finish this
day with a transfer by bus to your hotel. B
Day 6 Bariloche
Half day tour of Bariloche’s surrounding
mountains, lakes & parks. B
Day 7 Bariloche/ Buenos Aires
Fly to cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. B
Day 8 Buenos Aires
Morning half day sightseeing tour of Buenos
Aires, known as the ‘Paris of the Americas’.
Highlights are the Plaza 25 de Mayo,
Government House (La Casa Rosa), La Boca,
Recoleta and the port side district of Puerto
Madero. Afternoon at leisure. B
Day 9 Buenos Aires
Day at leisure. Dinner & tango show at
Esquina Carlos Gardel. BD
Day at leisure. B
Day 13 Rio de Janeiro/ Foz do Iguaçu
Fly to Foz do Iguaçu. Half day tour of the
Brazilian falls. B
Day 14 Iguazu Falls
Full day tour of the Argentine side of the falls
including the Devil’s Throat Lookout. B
Day 15 Foz do Iguaçu/ Lima
Free day in Iguaçu. Flight to Lima in the
afternoon. B
Day 16 Lima
Morning half day sightseeing tour of Lima,
including the Plaza Mayor, Government
Palace, Cathedral and the Larco Herrera
Museum which has the most important
archaeological collection of gold, silver,
ceramics and weaving of ancient Peru. B
Day 17 Lima
Day at leisure; ask us about optional
tours to Callao Fortress, Barranco or San
Francisco Catacombs. B
Day 18 Lima/ Amazon Jungle
Fly to Puerto Maldonado & transfer to your
jungle lodge. Activities include jungle hikes,
canoe trips, ethnobotanical trails and night
walks. BLD
We offer tours to cater for a wide range of
budgets. You can find up-to-date prices on
our website. Please feel free to discuss your
travel plans with us.
Suggested Tailored Itinerary
Day 19 Amazon Jungle
Spend the day exploring the jungle trails with
your native guides. BLD
Day 20 Amazon/ Sacred Valley
Short flight to Cuzco & transfer to the Sacred
Valley. Afternoon at leisure to adjust to the
altitude. B
Day 21 Sacred Valley of the Incas
Full day travelling through the Valley of the
Incas. Visit the famous Pisac Market and
Ollantaytambo ruins and village. BL
Day 22 Machu Picchu
Travel by Vistadome train to explore the famous
ruins of Machu Picchu (option to ride the Hiram
Bingham Deluxe train). A guided tour of the
ruins and lunch is included today. BLD
the sunrise. Free time before returning to
Cuzco this afternoon. B
Bariloche
Day 24 Cuzco
Depart this morning on a very rewarding
hands-on half day community project tour. B
Day 25 Cuzco
Half day city tour of the main sights of Cuzco
including the Plaza de Armas, Cathedral,
Koricancha Temple, San Blas Church, and
handcraft workshops. Continue visiting the
nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman. B
Day 26 Cuzco
Day at leisure to explore the Inca capital. B
Day 27 Cuzco/ Lake Titicaca
Full day bus journey across the Altiplano to
Puno. Option to travel by Orient Express
Andean Explorer train. BL
Day 28 Puno
Full day tour visiting Uros floating reed Islands
and Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca. BL
Sunset in Rio
Paz with a visit to Copacabana & Sun Island
en route. Option to overnight on Sun Island. BL
Day 30 La Paz
Half day sightseeing tour visiting the Valley
of the Moon and Witches’ Market. B
Day 31 La Paz/ Santiago
Morning at leisure. Afternoon flight to
Santiago. B
Day 32 Depart Santiago
Day at leisure until time to transfer to
the airport. Option to extend your trip to
Atacama, Easter Island or Patagonia. B
La Paz
11
Latin Tierra
43 DAYS
ECUADOR • PERU • BOLIVIA • BRAZIL • ARGENTINA
ECUADOR
Otavalo
Quito
Galapagos Is.
Cuenca
Guayaquil
PERU
From Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanos
BRAZIL
Machu Picchu
Lima
Puerto Maldonado
Colca
Cuzco
Arequipa
Puno
L. Titicaca
La Paz
BOLIVIA
Rio de
Janeiro
CHILE
Iguazu Falls
ARGENTINA
Santiago
Buenos
Aires
Highlights
Tour of Quito & the Middle of the World
of the Volcanos in Ecuador
Avenue
Ride
the
Devil’s Nose Train in Ecuador

Visit
the
Ingapirca
Ruins

night Galapagos Cruise (different
4vessels
& length cruises available)
Amazon
Jungle with Native Guides in
Peru (option
to do an Amazon Cruise)
Visit
Pisac
Market
ruins and village & Ollantaytambo
2 days of Machu Picchu Ruins
of Cuzco & entry to 16 historical
Tour
sites
More time to explore Cuzco
Arequipa and Colca Canyon
Taquile, Uros floating reed Islands
Visit
& Sun Island on Lake Titicaca
Sugar Loaf & Corcovado Tour
Iguazu Falls and Devil’s Throat
Buenos Aires Dinner & Tango Show
Price
From $15,275
Day 1 Friday Quito
Arrive Quito and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 Quito
Free day. B*
Day 3 Quito
12
Day 13 - 15 Galapagos Islands Cruise
Visit a number of islands to see turtles,
iguanas, blue-footed boobies & sea lions at
close range in the Galapagos’ amazing &
unique environment. BLD
Half day city tour including the Middle of the
World. B
Day 16 Galapagos Islands/ Guayaquil
Day 4 Quito/ Otavalo
Day 17 Guayaquil/ Lima
Day 5 Otavalo/ Papallacta
Day 18 Lima
Travel to Otavalo to visit the famous
indigenous markets. BLD
Travel to Papallacta and visit the thermal
baths. BL
Day 6 Papallacta/ Cotopaxi
Tour Cotopaxi National Park. BLD
Day 7 Cotopaxi/ Patate
Visit an indigenous market before continuing
to Patate. BLD
Day 8 Patate/ Baños/ Riobamba
Visit the waterfalls around Baños; continue to
Riobamba. BLD
Day 9 Riobamba/ Cuenca
Train ride along the series of switchbacks
known as the Devil’s Nose; continue by car to
Cuenca. BLD
Day 10 Cuenca
Fly back to Guayaquil. Transfer to your hotel. B
Fly to Lima this morning. Half day sightseeing
tour & Larco Herrera Museum. B
Day at leisure to explore Lima. B
Day 19 Lima/ Amazon Jungle
Fly to Puerto Maldonado & transfer to your
jungle lodge. Activities include jungle hikes,
canoe trips, ethnobotanical trails and night
walks. BLD
Day 20 Amazon Jungle
Spend the day exploring the jungle trails with
your native guides. BLD
Day 21 Amazon Jungle/ Sacred Valley
Short flight to Cuzco & transfer to the Sacred
Valley. Afternoon at leisure to adjust to the
altitude. B
Free day in Cuenca. Walk around the colonial
city centre and explore the Flower Market. B
Full day tour through the Sacred Valley,
including a visit to Pisac Markets and
Ollantaytambo ruins & village. BL
Day 11 Cuenca/ Guayaquil
Day 23 Machu Picchu
Travel overland to Guayaquil. BL
Day 12 Guayaquil/ Galapagos Islands
shown, entry fees and sightseeing as detailed on
a shared basis. (Option to have private services).
to cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, our
most comprehensive tour includes the
Galapagos Islands, Amazon Jungle,
magical Machu Picchu, three very
traditional and colourful Indigenous
Markets, Arequipa’s Colca Canyon and
Lake Titicaca. From the highlands we
fly to Rio de Janeiro and on to Iguazu
Falls, before finishing in the Argentine
capital. Ask us about a Patagonian or
Atacama extension for the ultimate
South American experience.
Fly to the Galapagos Islands to join your
cruise. (Choose from our vast options of 3 to 14
night cruises in tourist, first & deluxe boats). BLD
Travel by Vistadome train to explore the
famous ruins of Machu Picchu. A guided tour
of the ruins and lunch is included today. BLD
Return to the ruins and explore at your own
pace. Return to Cuzco this afternoon. B
What a wonderful time we had in South
America. Everything went smoothly. All the
tour guides were knowledgeable, helpful and
excellent. The itinerary was well planned with
just the right amount of time in each place.
-Susan, 2013
Suggested Tailored Itinerary
Day 25 Cuzco
Half day tour of Cuzco & nearby ruins. B
Pinnacle Rock, Galapagos Islands
Day 26 Cuzco
Free day. B
Day 27 Cuzco/ Arequipa
Fly to Arequipa. Afternoon at leisure. B
Day 28 Arequipa
Half day sightseeing tour including the Santa
Catalina Convent. B
Day 29 Arequipa/ Colca Canyon
Tour one of the world’s deepest canyons. BLD
Day 30 Colca Canyon/ Puno
Early morning trip to ‘Cruz del Condor’, the
best viewpoint to see condors’ flight. Continue
overland to Puno, arrive late this afternoon. BL
Day 31 Puno
Full day tour visiting Uros floating reed Islands
and Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca. BL
Panama Hat Maker, Cuenca
Paz; visit Copacabana & Sun Island en route. BL
Day 33 La Paz
Half day sightseeing tour visiting the Valley
of the Moon and Witches’ Market. B
Day 34 La Paz/ Rio de Janeiro
Fly to Rio de Janeiro. Transfer to your hotel in
Copacabana beach. B
Day 35 Rio De Janeiro
Day at leisure to relax and explore. B
Day 36 Rio De Janeiro
Full day tour including the statue of Christ the
Redeemer & the Sugar Loaf. BL
Free day. This evening enjoy a “Churrascaria”:
typical Brazilian BBQ dinner followed by a
Samba Show. BD
Day 38 Rio De Janeiro/ Foz do Iguaçu
Fly to the Brazilian side of the falls and tour
before arriving to your hotel on the Argentine
side. B
Day 39 Iguazu Falls
Walking tour of the Argentine Iguazu
National Park, including Devil’s Throat. B
Day 40 Iguazu Falls/ Buenos Aires
Fly to cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. Afternoon
at leisure. B
Day 41 Buenos Aires
Morning sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires. B
Day 42 Buenos Aires
Day at leisure. This evening enjoy a dinner &
tango show. BD
Day 43 Depart Buenos Aires
Transfer to the airport. B
13
Argentina
Buenos Aires optional Day Tours
San Telmo Flea Market, Estancia tours, guided
tours of the Colon Opera House, Ecological
Reserve by bike, Tigre Delta cruise, Colonia del
Sacramento (Uruguay) across the Rio de la Plata
and La Bombonera soccer stadium & museum.
Let’s Tango
Capital City: Buenos Aires
Language: Spanish
Population: 41 million
Visa: Australian tourists are
charged a reciprocity fee to
be paid prior to departure
from Australia.
Famous For: Tango, Buenos
Aires, soccer, Patagonia,
Iguazu Falls, Estancias, polo,
Malbec wine, Che Guevara
& steak.
Phrases to learn:
Dale - OK
Barbaro or Groso - Great or
Very good
Che - Hey!
Guita - Money
Vino tinto - Red wine.
BRAZIL
BOLIVIA
Highlights of Argentina
Train to
the Clouds
1. Iguazu Falls
Embracing almost 275 individual cataracts over 4km and surrounded by
tropical jungle, the falls are one of Argentina’s most spectacular natural
attractions.
PAR A GUAY
La Quiaca
C HIL E
Cafayate
2
Humahuaca
Salta
Iguazu Falls
Resistencia
Ta
Talampaya
N. P.
P
Ischigualasto N. P.
2. Northwest
The North-western provinces contain much of the country’s indigenous culture,
immersed in a landscape of sweeping Andean plains, deep gorges and
fertile valleys. Don’t miss some of the county’s best preserved colonial
architecture in Salta.
Cerro Aconcagua
6960m
3
Cordoba
U RU GUAY
Rosario
Buenos
Aires
Pacific
Wine buffs and food lovers should not miss the lovely region of
Mendoza,
Ocean
capital of Argentina’s famed wine production and set against a backdrop of
stunning Andean peaks. Discover Argentina’s signature grape, the Malbec.
ARGENT I NA
Neuquen
Steps of the Dinosaurs
Puerto Varas
Buenos Aires offers grand architecture, beautiful parks and wonderful
pedestrian malls. Visit San Telmo, La Casa Rosada, Recoleta, Colon Opera
House and the famous La Boca District. A must see is a Tango Show where
you will experience one of the most elegant and sensual dances in the world.
5
Bariloche
Puerto Madryn
Patagonia
Express
Valdes Peninsula
5. Patagonia
Experience the tranquil beauty of Bariloche’s mountains, the Lakes District,
the world famous Perito Moreno Glaciar near El Calafate and Peninsula
Valdes for whale watching. Ask us about Antarctica and Tierra de Fuego
cruises departing from Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city.
Mt. Fitz Roy
Los Glaciares N.P.
Perito
cier El Calafate
Moreno Glacier
Paine N. P.
P
Falkland Is./
Malvinas
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
Tierra
del Fuego
14
R e s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Posadas
Ibera
Wetlands
Mendoza
3. Wine Country
4. Buenos Aires
1
Tucuman
4
Argentina
Buenos Aires was just brilliant. I never imagined
something so beautiful and it’s people so proud.
I immediately saw glimpses of Paris everywhere
only to find that in fact they call it the Paris of
the South.
-Jeanette and Josephine, June 2012
BUENOS AIRES & IGUAZU FALLS
IGUAZU & IBERA MARSHLANDS
MENDOZA WINES - DELUXE
6 Days/ 5 Nights
5 Days/ 4 Nights
6 Days/ 5 Nights
This tour is guaranteed to surprise! Visit the
awe-inspiring Iguazu falls, the Jesuit ruins
and explore the remote marshlands and its
vast wildlife.
Pamper yourself with a taste of the best
Argentine wines while staying in luxury
winery lodges.
Day 1 Iguazu Falls
Arrival in Mendoza and transfer to your hotel.
Day 1 Buenos Aires
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 Buenos Aires
Half day city tour visiting some of the city’s
most important monuments, plus the barrios of
Puerto Madero, La Boca, San Telmo, Palermo
and Recoleta Cemetery. This evening enjoy
dinner & a Tango Show. BD
Day 3 Buenos Aires
Day at leisure. Ask us about optional touring
in this cosmopolitan city. B
Fly to Puerto Iguazu and tour the Argentine
side of Iguazu Falls. Explore the extensive
trails for a closer look at the falls plunging
from Iguazu River. A highlight is the impressive
viewpoint out over the Devils’ Throat. B
Day 5 Iguazu Falls
Day at leisure. Optional half day tour of the
Brazilian side of the falls for an exceptional
panoramic view. B
Day 6 Iguazu Falls
La Paz
Transfer to the airport. Option to extend your
trip to RioBOLIVIA
de Janeiro, Pantanal or Salta. B
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Day 2 Mendoza/ Club Tapiz Winery Lodge
Day 2 Iguazu Falls
Full day tour of Iguazu Falls. B
Day 3 Iguazu Falls/ Ibera Marshlands
Transfer to Colonia Carlos Pellegrini. On the
way, visit Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de
Loreto and San Ignacio Mini ruins. Continue
by 4WD to Ibera Marshlands, the second
largest marshland in South America. BD
Day 4 Ibera Marshlands
ARGENTINA
Iguazu
Falls
BRAZIL
URUGUAY
Buenos
Aires
Visit Familia Zuccardi winery for a guided
tour and traditional BBQ. Continue to your
accommodation, surrounded by vineyards, in
Chacras de Coria Valley. BL
Day 3 Club Tapiz Winery Lodge
Full day winery tour including Alta Vista,
Norton (and its “Growing with the wine”
program) to experience the process from the
beginning until it is served at the table. Finish
at Belasco de Baquedano winery. BL
Free day to explore the area. Activities
include: bird watching, boat rides on the
Ibera Lagoon, night walks, canoe paddling or
horseback rides. BLD
Day 4 Club Tapiz/ Salentein Winery Lodge
Day 5 Posadas
Day 5 Salentein Winery Lodge
Transfer to the airport. Ask us about extending
your trip to Peninsula Valdes, Mendoza, Salta
or El Calafate. B
Transfer to Uco Valley (1,200m). Visit Clos de
los 7 winery; a project of seven French friends
including 7 wineries. Lunch and wine tasting. BL
Day at leisure. Enjoy a wine tour, Espacio Killka
Art Gallery or horseback riding. B
Day 6 Salentein Winery Lodge
Visit Andeluna for winery tour and wine
tasting. Continue to the airport or cross the
Andes to Chile or travel to Cafayate in the
northwest of Argentina. BL
PARAGUAY
Atlantic
Ocean
Day 1 Mendoza
PARAGUAY
Iguazu
Falls
Mendoza
Vistalba
Lujan de Cuyo
Posadas
Ibera
Marshlands
Maipu
Club Tapiz Winery
Route 40
BRAZIL
Salentein Winery
to Clos de los 7
15
Argentina
Our guide in Buenos Aires, Jorge, was a great
character and his flexibility in giving us a
customised City tour was exactly what was
needed. The food was first class and the red
wines too (a great experience).
-Phillip and Wati, November 2013
ARGENTINA EXPRESS
COLONIAL NORTHWEST
15 Days/ 14 Nights
6 Days/ 5 Nights
Day 1 Buenos Aires
Day 1 Salta
Day 2 Buenos Aires/ Puerto Madryn
Day 2 Salta/ Humahuaca Gorge/ Salta
Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. Optional
dinner and tango show at El Querandi.
Fly to Trelew; transfer to Punta Tombo Fauna
Reserve, the largest Magellan penguin colony
in the continent (alternative touring from midApril to mid-September). B
Day 3 Puerto Madryn
Full day tour of Peninsula Valdes. B
Depart on a tour of Humahuaca Gorge and
see the colourful villages of Purmamarca,
Tilcara, and Humahuaca. On the way back to
Salta visit Maimara and Jujuy. B
Day 3 Salta/ Cachi
Day 4 Puerto Madryn/ Ushuaia.
Fly to Ushuaia; transfer to hotel. B
Enjoy a tour around the Calchaqui Valleys.
Pass by Cuesta del Obispo, Recta del Tin Tin
and Los Cardones National Park. B
Day 5 Ushuaia
Day 4 Cachi/ Cafayate
Half day tour Tierra del Fuego N.P. Afternoon
catamaran tour of the Beagle Channel. B
Day 6 Ushuaia/ El Calafate
Fly to El Calafate; transfer to hotel. B
Day 7 El Calafate
Full day tour of Upsala Glacier (alternative
touring from April to September). B
Day 8 El Calafate/ Buenos Aires
Tour of Perito Moreno Glacier. Return to
Calafate and fly to Buenos Aires. B
Fly to Iguazu Falls. Free day to explore. B
Day 10 Iguazu Falls
Full day tour of the Argentine Iguazu Falls
including the Devil’s Throat viewpoint. B
Morning at leisure. Then travel to Cafayate
along mountainous roads, passing by
Seclantas, Molinos and Angastaco and the
Arrows’ Ravine. Arrive in Cafayate, famous
for its Torrontes wine. B
Day 5 Cafayate/ Salta
In the morning we will tour the town of
Cafayate and a wine cellar. After lunch
depart for Salta. The panoramic views of
the valley continue along Quebrada de las
Conchas (Cafayate Gorge). B
Day 6 Salta
Transfer to the airport or extend your trip. B
Optional Extension from Cafayate
Day 5 Cafayate/ Tafi del Valle
Day 11 Iguazu Falls/ Salta
Fly to Salta; afternoon city tour including visit
to the archaeological museum. B
Day 12 Salta
Full day tour visiting the colourful Humahuaca
Gorge and typical northern villages. B
Day 13 Salta/ Cafayate
Depart for Cafayate overland through the
Calchaqui Valley, visiting Cachi en route. B
Day 14 Cafayate/ Buenos Aires
Puerto Madryn
Arrive in Salta. Afternoon tour visiting San
Bernardo Hill for a great view of the city.
Tour of Cafayate including winery visit. Depart
for Salta via Cafayate Gorge, with strange
rock formations. Fly back to Buenos Aires. B
Morning visit to Quebrada de las Conchas
with its unusual rock formations. Depart
towards Tafi Del Valle and visit the Quilmes
ruins on the way. B
Day 6 Tafi del Valle / Tucuman
Travel to Tucuman along the Sosa Gorge.
City tour of Tucuman and transfer to the
airport. Option to extend your trip to Iguazu
Falls or Mendoza. B
Note: From January to March the itinerary
may be changed due to rainy season.
Day 15 Depart Buenos Aires
Transfer to the airport or extend your trip. B
BRAZIL
Salta
Iguazu
Falls
Cafayate
ARGENTINA
Buenos
Aires
CHILE
CHILE
Humahuaca
to San Pedro
de Atacama
Salta
Cachi
Puerto Madryn
Tafi del Valle
El Calafate
Ushuaia
16
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Cafayate
Tucuman
ARGENTINA
Patagonia
We offer tours to cater for a wide range of
our website. Please feel free to discuss your
travel plans with us.
Torres del Paine
Shared by Chile & Argentina;
a remote, sparsely populated
land of myths & legends.
Combines mountains, glaciers,
fjords, lakes & rivers to create
some of the most staggering
landscapes on earth.
Time to visit: Ideally between
October & April.
What to expect: Breathtaking landscapes & lots of
adventure opportunities like
hiking, ice trekking, skiing, fly
fishing, cruising, kayaking &
horseback riding.
Pacific
Ocean
Viña del mar
Portillo
Valparaiso
Don’t forget: hiking boots,
thermals & a good camera!
Mendoza
Santiago
Las Lenas
Highlights of Patagonia
1. Lake District
Bariloche and Puerto Varas are the gateways to Northern Patagonia’s alpine
forests and emerald lakes. Well-known for skiing, fishing, trekking and their
European chocolate-making tradition. Fantastic self-drive options available.
2. El Chalten
A must for trekking enthusiasts, this volcanic region is home to the spectacular peak
of Mt. Fitz Roy.
Patagonia
Temuco
Villarrica
CHILE
Valdivia
1
Puerto Varas
Puerto Montt
Bariloche
Puerto Madryn
Patagonia
Express
3. Torres del Paine National Park
Chile’s most impressive National Park features lakes, glaciers, forests, rivers,
waterfalls and unique granite torres (towers). One of the best eco-destinations on
the planet, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1978.
5. Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia & Cape Horn
Explore this archipelago by boat and cruise through the Patagonian fjords. Ushuaia
is the world’s southernmost city and gateway to the immense solitude of Antarctica.
Valdes
Peninsula
Trelew
Balmaceda
San Rafael
Glacier
Laguna San Rafael
National Park
4. Perito Moreno Glacier
Rising 74m above Lago Argentino and 5km wide, Perito Moreno is one of the
world’s few expanding glaciers. Best explored with a mini-trek across the glacier’s
brilliant blue surface.
A RG E N T I N A
Puyehue
2
Torres del Paine
National Park
3
Perito Moreno
Mt. Fitz Roy
El Chalten
Los Glaciares
National Park
El Calafate
Perito
Moreno Glacier 4
Puerto Natales
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
5
Cabo de Hornos
17
Patagonia
Hotels were a terrific selection, and of course we
walked our feet off. The views were gorgeous; I
was up and took sunrise photos at 4am.
-Trish and Pat, November 2010
Southern Frontier
LAKES CROSSING
TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK
EL CALAFATE
ARGENTINA • CHILE
5 Days/ 4 Nights
Also operates in reverse
CHILE
4 Days/ 3 Nights
Departs October to April
ARGENTINA
4 Days/ 3 Nights
Departs October to April
Day 1 Bariloche
Day 1 Punta Arenas/ Puerto Natales
Day 1 El Calafate
Upon arrival, transfer to Puerto Natales. B
Day 2 Bariloche
Day 2 Puerto Natales
Day 2 El Calafate - Perito Moreno Glacier
Day 3 Bariloche/ Puerto Varas
Half day tour of Bariloche’s surrounding
mountains and lakes. B
Begin the lakes crossing in Puerto Pañuelo. Sail
through Blest Sound and across Lago Frias to
Peulla. (May to October includes one night in
Peulla). Continue by boat to Petrohue and then
by bus to Puerto Varas. B
Day 4 Puerto Varas
Full day tour to the Paine National Park and
visiting the Milodon Cave. B
Day at leisure to select an excursion in the
Paine National Park that fits your energy
level and interest. B
Depart Puerto Natales & continue your trip. B
Free day to explore the village. Optional
tours to Chiloe Island, Frutillar, Puerto Octay
and Llanquihue Lake or fly fishing in Futaleufu
River. B
Combine Paine N.P. with El Calafate and see
the highlights of Southern Patagonia. Add a
Skorpios or Cruceros Cruise and explore the
Chilean fjords.
Day 5 Puerto Varas
Upgrade this program with accommodation
inside Paine National Park. Choose from
moderate to deluxe hotels, from 2 to 8 night
stays, B&B or all-inclusive options. Some of the
properties available include Explora, Tierra,
CHILE
EcoCamp, Patagonia
Camp, The Singular,
Remota, Puerto
Lago Grey,
Varas Las Torres and Awasi,
please contact us for more details.
Puerto Montt
Bariloche
Depart Puerto Varas, continue with your trip. B
Why not extend your stay to Punta Arenas,
join a cruise to Ushuaia or San Rafael Glacier,
take the Austral Road or drive to Temuco?
Full day tour to Los Glaciares National
Park. Spectacular view of the Perito Moreno
Glacier. Option to do the mini trekking or Big
Ice excursion. B
Day 3 El Calafate
Day at leisure.
Full day tours are available
Córdoba
to cater to your interest and fitness level.
Ice-treks, kayaking, 4WD tours and visits
to traditional Patagonian estancias
all
URUGUAY
available. B
Day 4 El Calafate
Transfer to the airport.Buenos
B
Aires
Combine this tour with Paine National Park
and see the highlights of Southern Patagonia,
or continue to Ushuaia, Bariloche, Fitz Roy, El
Chalten or Peninsula Valdes.
Ask us about the new Fly-Drive options!
ARGENTINA
C H I L E ARGENTINA
Lakes District
CHILE
Puerto
Octay
Frutillar
18
ARGENTINA
Peulla Puerto
Blest Bariloche
Petrohue
Puerto Varas
Puerto Montt
Lago
Frias
Puerto
Pañuelo
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Mt. Fitz Roy
Torres del
Paine N.P.
Los Glaciares N.P.
Puerto Natales
Punta Arenas
ARGENTINA
CHILE
Torres del
Paine N.P.
Perito
Moreno Glacier
Mt. Fitz Roy
El Chalten
Los Glaciares N.P.
El Calafate
Puerto
Natales
Punta
Arenas
Ushuaia
Patagonia
We are having the best time… Today at the
Perito Moreno glacier, the best day ever…We
love this part of the world, very special… P.S.
The red wine is beautiful!!!
-Ronald & Noelene, March 2013
PENINSULA VALDES
ARGENTINA
4 Days/ 3 Nights
Daily - All year round
Puerto Madryn is the gateway to the wildlife
sanctuary of Peninsula Valdes. Best known for
being a great whale watching site.
Day 1 Trelew/ Puerto Madryn
Upon arrival, transfer to Puerto Madryn.
Day 2 Puerto Madryn/ Punta Delgada
Full day tour of Peninsula Valdes. Optional
whale watching boat tour (available from
July to November). Afternoon at leisure for
trekking along the beach dunes. B
Day 3 Punta Delgada/ Puerto Madryn
Afternoon visit to Caleta Valdes to visit the
Wild Life Reserve to see Sea Elephants, Sea
Lions and more native fauna. B
Day 4 Depart Puerto Madryn
Visit Punta Tombo Fauna Reserve, the largest
Magellan penguin colony on the continent
(from Mid-April to Mid-September the visit
to the Penguin Rookery will be replaced by
a tour to Valle de Chubut, and other welsh
villages). Continue to the airport. B
Why not extend your trip to Ushuaia or
Buenos Aires.
7 DAYS W/ TREK
GRAN PATAGONIA OVERLAND
CHILE
7 Days/ 6 Nights
October to April
Departs Mondays
CHILE, NORTH AUSTRAL ROAD
7 Days/ 6 Nights
Day 1 Puerto Montt/ Hornopiren
Day 1 Punta Arenas
Transfer to Torres del Paine N.P. Visit Cueva
de Milodon and Seno de Ultima Esperanza.
Overnight at EcoCamp Patagonia. LD
Day 2 Torres del Paine - Los Cuernos
Hike to Los Cuernos next to Lake Nordenskjold,
for superb views of the lakes and Paine’s
Horns. Trek ends at Refugio Los Cuernos, a
small and cosy mountain refuge. BLD
Day 3 The Paine Massif’s Heart
Challenging trek to French Valley along a steep
trail into the very heart of the Paine Massif. After
a picnic, descend to Refugio Paine Grande, on
the shores of Lake Pehoe. BLD
Day 4 Torres del Paine - Glacier Grey
Hike to the glacial Lake Grey. Sail along this
natural marvel. Transfer to EcoCamp. BLD
Day 5 Torres del Paine - Towers
Trek the most famous trail in the N.P. After an
uphill slog, the Towers eventually come into
full view, rising majestically (2,900m) before
you, with the glacial lake visible below. After
a picnic, return to EcoCamp. BLD
Day 6 Torres del Paine/ Eastern Lakes
Hike on the Fauna Trail for the best wildlife
spotting: Guanacos, Ñandu or even Pumas.
Pass along Laguna Azul, Lago Sarmiento
and Laguna Amarga. Back to EcoCamp for a
farewell dinner. BLD
Day 7 Torres del Paine
Transfer to Punta Arenas or El Calafate. B
Nine day Circuit and other options available.
Valdes Peninsula
ARGENTINA
Puerto
Madryn
Trelew
Caleta Valdes
Punta
Delgada
Torres del Paine
Ecocamp
Cuernos
Glacier Grey del
Paine
French
Valley
Lago
Refugio
Grey
Los Cuernos
Refugio
to Puerto
Paine
Natales
Arrive Puerto Montt and transfer to Bahia
Catalina for dinner and overnight. D
Day 2 Hornopiren/ Lake Yelcho
Transfer to the pier for the boat to Leptepu;
continue to Lake Yelcho with hiking in
the Patagonian forest en route. Dinner &
overnight Lake Yelcho Lodge. BD
Day 3 Lake Yelcho/ La Junta
Morning trekking in the area and lunch at the
lodge. This afternoon continue south to arrive
at the Espacio y Tiempo Lodge. BLD
Day 4 La Junta
Morning excursion rafting the Rio Palena with
plenty of opportunities to observe the local
flora and fauna. Afterwards we head to the
Naturales El Sauce hot springs where you can
enjoy a dip in the thermal waters. BLD
Day 5 La Junta/ Coyhaique
Travel south to Puyuhuapi where we visit the
village and nearby Queulat National Park.
Explore the forest trails and see the Queulat
Hanging Glacier. Continue south to Coyhaique
and Hotel El Reloj. BL
Day 6 Coyhaique
Horse riding excursion through beautiful
Patagonian forest to a view point overlooking
the Coyhaique Valley. BBQ lunch and time to
relax. Return to Coyhaique. BL
Day 7 Coyhaique/ Balmaceda Airport
Breakfast and time at leisure. Transfer to the
airport in Balmaceda for your onwards flight. B
Option to extend to see the Marble Caves.
Puerto Montt
ARGENTINA
Hornopiren N.P.
Lake Yelcho
La Junta
Coyhaique
CHILE Balmaceda
19
Chile & Argentina Cruising
Cape Horn
CRUCEROS AUSTRALIS
SKORPIOS CRUISES
Built in 2005, the Via Australis holds 136 passengers
in 64 cabins. The Stella Australis is an awe-inspiring
cruise ship constructed in 2010. It has 100 cabins
and can hold up to 210 passengers. They offer
travellers a relaxed stay, while providing breathtaking sights from the decks.
Skorpios II was built in 1988 and has 53 cabins
with private facilities. It explores the remote
Northern Ice Field, including San Rafael Glacier.
Skorpios III was built in 1995, has 45 cabins with
private facilities and explores the Southern Ice
Field, including Amalia Glacier.
5D/4N Punta Arenas – Ushuaia
Day 1 Arrival in Punta Arenas and transfer to
your ship. Commence your cruise through the
Strait of Magellan to the Beagle Channel. D
Day 2 See the Marinelli Glacier from the ship
before going ashore in the Magellan forest.
Enjoy a Zodiac trip around the Tucker Islets to
get close to a colony of Magellan Penguins. BLD
Day 3 Hike to Pia Fjord to get the best view
of the icebergs. BLD
Day 4 Navigate to Cape Horn National Park.
Subject to weather conditions, explore the
flora and fauna of this remote island. BLD
Day 5 Disembark in Ushuaia. B
4D/3N Ushuaia – Punta Arenas
Day 1 Arrive in Ushuaia and transfer to your
ship. D
6D/5N Chonos Route – Puerto Montt
Day 1 Sat Arrival in Puerto Montt and transfer
to your ship Skorpios II. Begin sailing through
the Llanquihue archipelago. D
Day 2 Sun Navigate through Patagonian
channels such as Moraleda and Ferronave. BLD
Day 3 Mon Cross the San Rafael Lagoon
entrance for boat excursions among the
icebergs. BLD
Day 4 Tue Option for thermal baths at
Quitralco pier. BLD
Day 5 Wed You might see Humpback and Blue
whales while crossing the Corcovado Gulf. Sail
through the oriental coast of Chiloe Island. BLD
Day 6 Thu Disembark in Puerto Montt. B
Why not extend your trip to Bariloche?
CHILE
Puerto Montt
Bariloche
Chiloe
Day 2 Navigate to Cape Horn National Park.
Subject to weather conditions, explore the
flora and fauna of this remote island. BLD
Day 3 Navigate through the channels to reach
the spectacular De Agostini Sound where you
can see glaciers descending into the sea. BLD
Day 4 Disembark in Punta Arenas. B
Puerto Natales
CHILE
Quitralco
San Rafael
Lagoon
Glaciers El Burujo
& Amalia
Mt. Fitz Roy
LosRoute
Glaciares– Puerto Natales
4D/3N Kaweskar
N.P.
Day 1 Tue/ Fri Arrival
in Puerto Natales and
Puerto Natales
transfer to yourCHILE
ship SkorpiosARGENTINA
III. Begin sailing
Punta
Arenas
D
through the
Patagonian
channels.
Puerto Montt
Tucker Islets
Ushuaia
Porvenir
Punta
Arenas
ARGENTINA
ARGENTINA
Tucker Islets
Day 2 Wed/ Sat See the Amalia
Glacier and
Bariloche
continue to El Brujo Glacier. Disembark for
Chiloe
afternoon excursions by motor boat. BLD
Pia
Glacier
Cape Horn
Ushuaia
Day 3 Thu/ Sun Travel through Montañas
Fjord to Bernal GlacierQuitralco
for optional hiking. BLD
Pia
Glacier
San Rafael
Day 4 Fri/ Mon Disembark
in Puerto Natales. B
Lagoon
Cape Horn
New Tour
Gauchos, Glaciers & Penguins.
Tierra del Fuego by land & Sea
Glaciers El Burujo
& Amalia
Mt. Fitz Roy
Los Glaciares
N.P.
Puerto Natales
Punta
Arenas
Cruising in Patagonia accessible between Sep & Apr. Pre & post
tours
available in Ushuaia,
Islets
Paine & Los Glaciares National Parks. Please contact us for moreTucker
details.
Ushuaia
20
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Pia
Glacier
Cape Horn
Chile
Santiago Optional Day Tours
Wine tour to Colchagua Valley, Valparaiso
and Viña del Mar, Pablo Neruda’s Isla Negra
Museum, bike and walking tours of Santiago,
Casablanca wine region and ski day trip.
Parinacota Volcano, Atacama
Capital City: Santiago
PERU
Language: Spanish
BOLIVIA
Arica
Uyuni
Iquique
Calama
Atacama
Desert
Antofagasta
4
To Easter Is
1
San Pedro
de Atacama
Visa: Australian tourists
entering Chile through
Santiago International
Airport are required to pay
a reciprocity fee.
Famous For: Patagonia,
Atacama Desert, wine,
Lakes District, Easter Island
and empanadas.
Phrases to learn:
Cachai? - Do you
understand?
Copete - alcoholic beverage
Gallo or galla - man or
woman
Guagua - kid, baby
Po – well then.
CHILE
3757km
La Serena
Viña del Mar
Valparaiso
3
Population: 16.5 million
Portillo
Santiago
2
Pacific
Ocean
Highlights of Chile
Temuco
Villarrica
Valdivia
Puerto Varas
Puerto Montt
Puyehue
5
Bariloche
1. Atacama Desert
This is the driest desert on earth, rich in Pre-Columbian culture, where otherworldly
landscapes - extensive salt lakes dotted with pink flamingos, volcanos and geysers - are
framed by the Andean mountain range.
2. Chilean Wine Regions
Some of the finest new-world wines can be found in Chile’s central valleys, where high
quality grapes, a Mediterranean climate and a variety of soil types have created a
winemakers paradise. Look out for Carmenere, Chile’s signature grape variety.
3. Santiago & Valparaiso
San Rafael
Glacier
Balmaceda
ARGENTINA
Torres del Paine
National Park
Los Glaciares N.P.
Santiago is one of the most modern cities in South America, surrounded by world class
wineries and ski resorts. Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2002, is
Chile’s oldest port where multi-coloured houses perch on steep hills surrounding the bay,
connected by labyrinthine streets.
4. Easter Island
Located 3,700km off the coast of Chile, with a distinct Polynesian tradition and more
than 20,000 archaeological vestiges and Moais. Because of its cultural richness, it was
declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1995.
5. Patagonia
Puerto Natales
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
Puerto Williams
Home to some of Chile’s most dramatic scenery. Northern Patagonia features the famous
Lakes District, a volcanic region with snow-covered summits reflected in the green-blue
colour of its lakes, rivers and hot springs; and the Carretera Austral. Southern Patagonia
comprises glaciers, fjords and the world class Torres del Paine National Park.
Cabo de Hornos
21
Chile
The wine and food were superb! Santiago
is a very cosmopolitan city and we would
recommend it to anyone.
-Sue & Allan, November 2012
Essence of the Andes
SANTIAGO AND BEYOND
ATACAMA DESERT
SAN PEDRO TO LA PAZ
4 Days/ 3 Nights
4 Days/ 3 Nights
8 Days/ 7 Nights
Departs Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
and Saturdays
Also runs in reverse
Day 1 Santiago
Arrive in Santiago and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 Santiago
Half day city tour. Visit the O’Higgins Park,
the colonial architecture of La Moneda
Presidential Palace, the Cathedral and
Santiago’s Central Plaza. Continue to
Santiago’s bustling Central Market and Santa
Lucia Hill to enjoy a spectacular view of the
city and surrounding Andean peaks. Free
afternoon. B
Day 3 Santiago/ Isla Negra/ Valparaiso
Full day excursion to Isla Negra to visit
the tomb, house and museum of the Nobel
Literature prize winner, Pablo Neruda.
Transfer to Valparaiso and overnight. B
Day 4 Valparaiso/ Viña del Mar/ Santiago
Full day tour of Valparaiso & Viña del Mar,
also known as the “Garden City”. Transfer
to Santiago airport or extend your journey
with a wine tour or a trip to Patagonia or the
Atacama Desert. B
Valparaiso
Viña del Mar
Day 1 Calama/ San Pedro de Atacama
Arrive in Calama and travel to San Pedro
de Atacama. Enjoy an afternoon tour to the
Valley of the Moon.
Day 2 San Pedro de Atacama
Visit the museum and the artisan village of
Tocanao before continuing to the Salar de
Atacama. BL
Early departure to the Tatio’s Geyser Field
followed by a visit to the Puritama Hot
Springs. BL
Day 4 San Pedro de Atacama/ Calama
Morning transfer to the airport for your
onward flight. B
Extend your trip travelling to Patagonia, to
Bolivia to explore the Uyuni Salt Flats or cross
over the border to Salta in Argentina.
Properties available include Explora, Tierra
Atacama, Alto Atacama, Casa Atacama,
Awasi, Altiplanico & more. Various tour
packages are available from 2 to 7 nights with
B&B or All Inclusive options.
Geisers
to Uyuni
del
BOLIVIA
Tatio
Calama
Licancabur Volcano
ARGENTINA
Atacama
Desert
Isla Negra
Santiago
CHILE
Paso Hito Cajon
San Pedro
de Atacama
Antofagasta
Salar de
Atacama
Salta
CHILE
22
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
A RG E N T I NA
Day 1 Calama/ San Pedro de Atacama
Arrive in Calama and travel to San Pedro de
Atacama.
Days 2-3 San Pedro de Atacama
Valley of the Moon Sunset tour and a day at
leisure for optional touring. B
Day 4 San Pedro de Atacama/ Villamar
Begin your overland tour into Bolivia to see
volcanos and high altiplano desert. BLD
Day 5 Villamar/ Tahua
Drive across the Uyuni Salt Plains to Tunupa
Volcano & Tahua Village. BLD
Day 6 Tahua/ Uyuni
Visit Coquesa, Isla Incahuasi and continue
to Uyuni. BL
Day 7 Uyuni/ Oruro/ La Paz
Depart on the midnight train for Oruro,
continue by bus to La Paz (Option to fly direct
Uyuni-La Paz). B
Day 8 La Paz
Transfer to the airport or extend your trip to
Cuzco through Puno and Lake Titicaca. B
PERU
CHILE
Uyuni
Salar
Lake
Calama
La Paz
BOLIVIA
Oruro
Uyuni
Coloured
Lakes
Atacama San Pedro de Atacama
Desert
ARGENTINA
Chile
Both of Ted’s suggestions, the Atacama Desert
and the southern Lake District, suited us well. The
hotel, the tours, and of course the geography in
Atacama were all outstanding.
-Noel & Yvonne, October 2013
SOUTHERN LAKES
CHILEAN WINE VALLEYS
EASTER ISLAND
9 Days/ 8 Nights
Self-Drive Program
7 Days/ 6 Nights
4 Days/ 3 Nights
Day 1 Temuco/ Pucon
Arrive in Temuco. After a briefing, start your
lakes adventure by driving south to the village
of Pucon on Lago Villarrica.
Day 2 & 3 Pucon
Explore the area including hot springs,
villages and beautiful countryside. B
Day 4 Pucon/ Valdivia
Easy drive to the coast & the river port town
of Valdivia, established in 1645. B
Day 5 Valdivia/ Puyehue
Early morning walk along the promenade.
Return to the lakes and the nearby National
Park of Puyehue. B
Day 6 Puyehue/ Puerto Varas
Follow the country lanes to Puerto Octay,
beside Lake Llanquihue & the beautiful town
of Puerto Varas. B
Day 7 & 8 Puerto Varas
Free days with lots of great day trip & picnic
options around the lake. B
Day 9 Puerto Varas
Return your car or extend your trip crossing
over to the Argentinian Lake Region. B
Temuco
Villarrica
C HILE A RG E N TINA
Pucon
Day 1 Santiago
Arrive in Easter Island. Welcome and transfer
to the hotel.
Day 2 Aconcagua Valley
Full day tour of Anakena visiting the
archaeological centre of Akahanga, Rano
Raraku Quarry where all the existing Moais
were sculpted; picnic lunch at Anakena
Beach. BL
Tour and wine tasting at Viña Errazuriz and
Viña Von Siebentha. Visit the old wine cellars
and vineyard. Return to Santiago. BL
Day 3 Valparaiso - Casablanca & San
Antonio Valleys
Transfer to Valparaiso and tour of the city.
Wine tasting at Viña Matetic. BL
Day 4 Colchagua Valley
Tour and wine tasting at Viña Montes in the
Apalta Valley. Tour Viña Viu Manent by horse
and carriage. Visit to Colchagua museum. BLD
Day 5 Santiago
Tour and wine tasting at Viña Perez Cruz and
Viña Santa Rita. Return to Santiago. BL
Day 6 Maipo Valley
Tour and wine tasting at Viña Aquitania and
Viña Concha y Toro. Farewell dinner. BLD
Day 7 Santiago
Return home or continue your journey. B
Try a winery tour by bike or try a shorter
version combined with the Atacama Desert.
Fly-Drive option also available.
Valparaiso
Vn. Villarrica
Osorno
Puerto Octay
Puerto Varas
Puerto Montt
Chiloe Island
Viña del Mar
Casablanca
Santiago
Valdivia
Lago Puyehue
San Antonio
Day 2 Easter Island
Day 3 Easter Island
Half day tour of Orongo and then visit Rano
Kau volcano, with the largest concentration
of petroglyphs. Marvel at the seven Moais
overlooking the sea on a tour of Ahu Akivi.
See the Caves of Ana Tepahu that are among
the largest on the island. B
Day 4 Easter Island
Transfer from the hotel to the airport or
extend your stay with 4 to 7 night programs. B
Properties available include Explora Rapa Nui,
Hanga Roa, Altiplanico, Iorana, Taha Tai, Otai
& more. Various tour packages available from
2 to 8 nights with B&B or All Inclusive options.
Easter
Island/
Rapa Nui
Maipo Valley
Lago Nahuel Huapi
Bariloche
Colchagua Valley
CHILE
Anakena
Ahu Akivi
Ahu Tahai
Villa Angostura
Lago Todos
los Santos
Day 1 Easter Island
Arrive in Santiago and transfer to your hotel.
Half day city tour. Welcome dinner and wine
tasting with Sommelier. LD
Rano
Raraku
Hanga Roa
Akahanga
Orongo
Rano Kau Caldera
Pacific
Ocean
23
Bolivia
La Paz Optional Day Tours
Peña Folk Show, Tiahuanaco Ruins, Coroico
Rainforest, Sun Island, National Folklore
Museum, Valley of the Moon, Death Road,
Coca Museum, Rurrenabaque in the Bolivian
Amazon and Choro Trek.
Untouched by Time
Salt Flats
Capital City: Sucre
Language: Spanish
Visa: No visa required for
Australians
Famous For: Uyuni Salt Flats,
Valley of the Moon, Lake
Titicaca, Potosi and Tihuanaco.
Phrases to learn:
Chocho - happy
Cuate - dude, best buddy
Paceno - people from La Paz
or most popular beer
Highlights of Bolivia
BRAZIL
L ake
Titicac a
1. Lake Titicaca
With crystal blue waters and panoramic views of the Cordillera
de los Andes, the world’s highest navigable lake at 3,820m
offers stunning sightseeing opportunities. Isla del Sol, steeped
in Inca myths and legends, is a highlight.
2. La Paz
Explore the dizzying heights of one of South America’s most
fascinating cities. Enjoy pure street theatre as you jostle past
the vendors in the city’s many lively markets; stock up on
souvenirs at the Witches’ Market, and visit the nearby Valley
of the Moon.
3. Uyuni Salt Flats
Endless white plains of salt distort perception, lagoons coloured
in vivid green, blue and red dot the landscape. Add flocks of
pink flamingos for a truly surreal experience.
PERU
Rurrenabaque
Madidi N.P.
1
Puno
2 La Paz
Kempf N.P.
BOLIVIA
San Ignacio
Tiahuanaco
Pantanal
Cochabamba
Santa Cruz
Samaipata
Oruro
Sucre
3 Uyuni
Salar
Lake
CHILE
Re
R e s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Trinidad
Lake Titicaca
Sorata
Corioco
Potosi 4
Coloured Lakes
24
Sun Is
Moon Is
Copacabana
Huatajata
Puerto Heath
4. Potosi
Once the richest city in the world, Potosi’s stunning architecture
hints at more affluent times. Take a stroll through the stunning
UNESCO Heritage Listed historic centre; for the adventurous, a
visit to the mines of Cerro Rico is a must.
Puno
Rio Beni
Tarabuco
Tarija
Villazon
ARGENTINA
PARAGUAY
Bolivia
I remember you telling me that Uyuni would be a
highlight & it certainly was...We saw flamingos,
the train cemetery & the endless kilometres…it
was all like being transported back to another
century. These memories will be with us forever.
-Peter & Ann-Maree, September 2012
C
E
CL
RS
EX
CAMINO DEL INCA
TO
ON U
USIV
13 Days/12 Nights
Departs Wednesdays & Saturdays
Day 1 Cuzco
Arrive in Cuzco and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 Cuzco/ Puno
Depart by bus or train, travelling across the
vast altiplano to Puno. BL
Day 3 Puno
Full day tour Lake Titicaca; visit the Uros reed
floating Islands and Taquile Island. BL
Travel by bus and catamaran to La Paz with
a visit to Sun Island. BL Option to overnight.
Day 5 La Paz
Half day sightseeing tour of the city with a
visit to the Moon Valley. B
Day 6 La Paz/ Oruro/ Uyuni
Bus to the highlands of Oruro where you will
board the train to Uyuni. BL
UYUNI OVERLAND TOUR
SALT FLATS, POTOSI & MARKET
7 Days/ 6 Nights
Departs Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays &
Saturdays
8 Days/ 7 Nights
Departs Mondays
Day 1 La Paz
Arrive in La Paz and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 La Paz/ Oruro/ Uyuni
Board a bus across the Altiplano to Oruro
where you catch a train to Uyuni. BL (Option
to fly from La Paz to Uyuni).
Day 3 Uyuni/ Tahua
Discover the Colchani Salt Mine in the surreal
salt desert before travelling onto Tahua. BLD
Day 4 Tahua/ Villamar
Drive to Isla Incahuasi with many cacti growing
on the island. Continue across the Altiplano to
Alota and Villamar. BLD
Day 5 Villamar/ San Pedro de Atacama
Visit the Uyuni Salt Flats and Isla Incahuasi
before traveling to Tahua. BLD
Visit the Eduardo Abaroa Andean Fauna
National Reserve. Then continue through
the “Pampas de Dali”, up to Laguna Verde,
before crossing the border into Chile to San
Pedro de Atacama. B
Day 8 Tahua/ Uyuni/ Villazon
Day 7 Uyuni/ Tahua
Visit Colchani hot water
springs. Continue to
PANAMA
Uyuni for the midnight train to Villazon. BL
Day 9 Villazon/ La Quiaca/ Salta
Once in Villazon, cross the border into
Argentina. Travel through the Humahuaca´s
Gorge before arriving in Salta.
Optional full day tour of the Tatio Geysers. B
Day 7 Depart San Pedro de Atacama
Transfer to the airport or ask us about
extending your stay in Atacama. B
We suggest that you stay longer in San
Pedro de Atacama to explore this unique
Day 10 Salta PERÚ
C OL OMB I A
desert (See Chile) or cross by bus to Salta in
Half day city sightseeing tour. B
Argentina.
o
Ri
Day 11 Salta/ Cafayate
ni
e
Tour through the Calchaqui Valleys on your
B
way to Cafayate. B
Day 12 Cafayate/ Tafi del Valle
Arrive in La Paz and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 La Paz/ Uyuni
Board a bus across the Altiplano to Oruro
where you catch a train to Uyuni. BL
Day 3 Uyuni
Travel to Colchani and cross the salt plains to
Conquesa. BL
Day 4 Uyuni/ Potosi
Board the bus to Potosi and enjoy the
colourfully rugged landscape. BL
Day 5 Potosi/ Sucre
Tour of Potosi before boarding the bus to the
colonial town of Sucre. B
Day 6 Sucre
Tour of Sucre with afternoon at leisure. B
Day 7 Sucre/ La Paz
On a Sunday visit the market of Tarabuco
before flying back to La Paz. B
Day 8 Depart La Paz
extending your stay in the Bolivian Pantanal,
Lake Titicaca or Machu Picchu. B
Ask us about the Deluxe Airstream Camper
programs on the Salt plains!
Madidi N.P.
Chalalan Eco Lodge
Visit the Cafayate Gorge before continuing
to Tafi del Valle. B
PANAMA
Rurrenabaque
Day 13 Depart Tucuman
Trinidad
Travel along the Quebrada de los Sosa to
Tucuman to catch a flight to Buenos Aires. B
Machu Picchu
Lake Titicaca
Sacred Valley
Cuzco
Lake Titicaca
Sun Is. BOLIVIA
La Paz
PERU
Oruro
La Paz
Puno
Sucre
Tahua
Uyuni
Uyuni
Salar
Lake
Villazon
Coloured La Quiaca
Lakes
Humahuaca
CHILE
Salta
Cafayate
Day 1 La Paz
ARGENTINA
Tucuman
San Ignacio
Lake Titicaca
B O L IVIA
Oruro
Trinidad
La Paz
PERU
BOLIVIA
Sucre
Oruro
CH I L E
Tahua
Uyuni
Salar
Lake
Atacama
Desert
San Pedro
de Atacama
Sucre
Uyuni
Tarabuco
Villamar
Uyuni
Salar
Lake
Paso Hito Cajon
Potosi
Uyuni
PARAGUAY
A RG EN TINA
BRA
25
CHILE
Iguaz
Peru
Lima Optional Day Tours
Gold and Larco Herrera Museum, Lima by Night
with Dinner, Archaeology Tour, Pachacamac
Ruins, Paso Horse exhibition, Palomino Island,
Night tour of the Fountain Park, Barranco Arts
District, Gastronomic Tour and more.
Kingdom of the Incas
Capital City: Lima
Language: Spanish
Visa: No visa is required for
Australian citizens.
Famous For: Machu Picchu,
Inca Trail, Nazca Lines,
Great Cuisine, Lake Titicaca,
Arequipa, Amazon Jungle
& Pisco.
Phrases to learn:
Bacan - Cool
Chela - Beer
Ceviche - Marinated seafood
Combi - bus
Al Toque - right away
Highlights of Peru
COLOMBIA
1. Amazon
Exotic and accessible, the Peruvian Amazon is just a short
flight from Lima. Choose from luxury cruises or rustic
lodges in Manu National Park, Tambopata or Pacaya
Samiria National Reserves.
Rio Marañon
2. Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley & Cuzco
See our Heritage Trail itinerary for the ultimate
exploration of this timeless region! Relax and absorb
the beauty, culture and history of the Sacred Valley,
culminating with the magic of Machu Picchu.
3. Nazca Lines
The UNESCO Heritage listed Nazca Valley is renowned
for gigantic zoomorphic and geometric markings on the
desert floor. Best seen from the air.
Gotca Falls
Kuelap
Sipan
Chiclayo
6
5. Arequipa
Rivalling Cuzco as Peru’s loveliest colonial city, Arequipa
is surrounded by snow capped volcanos and thePacific
world’s
deepest canyons, home to the Andean condor. Ocean
6. Northern Kingdoms
Featuring the remains of Moche, Chimu and Chachapoyan
civilisations, this region is probably the richest
archaeological area in all of the Americas. See vast
citadels, mysterious temples and the fine craftsmanship
of these ancient people.
Iquitos
1
Rio
Pacaya
Pacaya - Samiria N.. P.
Chachapoyas
BRAZIL
Cajamarca
Chan Chan
Trujillo
Chavin de
Huaraz
Huantor
Rio
Ucayali
P ERU
4. Lake Titicaca
Located on the border between Peru and Bolivia, it is the
highest navigable lake in the world at 3,820m above sea
level. Visit the famous Uros floating islands, or overnight
with a homestay on Amantani or Taquile Islands.
Rio Napo
ECUADOR
n
on
azon
Amaz
Am
Manu
anu N. P.
Cara
Huancayo
Lima
Paracas
Paracas N.P.
P
2
Puerto
Maldonado
Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley
Abancay
Cuzco
Ica
Tambopata
N.R.
Lake Titicaca 4
Nazca
Colca
3 Canyon
Puno
5
Arequipa
C H ILE
26
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
BOLIVIA
La Paz
Peru
The people, their cultures, the history and
the beauty of the place: mesmerising. We
particularly loved Cuzco, our Inca trail
adventure was a highlight!
-Sue, September 2010
CUZCO – MACHU PICCHU
NORTHERN KINGDOMS
NAZCA LINES &
COLCA CANYON
7 Days/ 6 Nights
12 Days/ 11 Nights
9 Days/ 8 Nights
Day 1 Cuzco
Day 1 Lima
Day 1 Lima
Day 2 Cuzco
Day 2 Lima
Day 2 Lima/ Paracas
Tour of Lima including the Gold Museum. B
Travel by bus to Paracas. B
Day 3 Lima/ Chiclayo
Day 3 Paracas
Fly to Chiclayo. Afternoon city tour with a visit
to the Witches’ market. B
Enjoy a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands to
see penguins, seals & sea lions. B
Day 4 Chiclayo
Day 4 Paracas
Visit the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum. B
Fly over the unique Nazca Lines. B
Free day. Optional excursions to the salt
terraces of Maras, the archaeological site of
Moray or the village of Chinchero. B
Day 5 Chiclayo/Chachapoyas
Day 5 Paracas/ Arequipa
Days 6-8 Chachapoyas
Spend three full days touring Kuelap Fortress,
the spectacular Gocta Waterfalls and the
cliff-side funerary site of Karajia. BL,BL,BL
Day 6 Arequipa
Tour of Cuzco’s historic centre and nearby
ruins. B
Day 3 Cuzco/ Sacred Valley
Full day touring Pisac market
Ollantaytambo town & ruins. BL
and
Travel by Vistadome train to Machu Picchu
and enjoy a guided tour of the ruins. BL
Enjoy a second visit to Machu Picchu at your
own pace. Go early to see the dawn rise over
the ruins before returning to Cuzco. B
Day 7 Depart Cuzco
continuing your trip to Lake Titicaca. B
Option on Day 5 Express Inca Trail
Travel by train to the trailhead kilometre 104.
Hike the last section of the Inca Trail, arriving
into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate this
afternoon. (6-7 hours) BL
Machu Picchu
Pueblo
Ollantaytambo
Urubamba
Pisac
Machu
Picchu
Salt Pans Maras
Moray
Sacred Valley
Cuzco
Free day; overnight bus to Chachapoyas. B
Day 9 Chachapoyas/Trujillo
Free day. Overnight bus to Trujillo, via Chiclayo. B
Day 10 Trujillo
Arrive Trujillo; day at leisure.
Day 11 Trujillo
Visit Chan Chan, the largest adobe citadel in
the Americas. Continue to the Moche Temples
of the Sun & the Moon. BL
Day 12 Depart Trujillo
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B
Day at leisure before taking the overnight
bus to Arequipa. B
Guided tour of the city of Arequipa. B
Day 7 Arequipa/ Colca Canyon
Early bus ride to Colca Canyon and the town
of Chivay. BLD
Day 8 Colca Canyon
Early departure to the ‘Cruz del Condor’ site,
the best place to admire the Colca Canyon
and the Condor’s flight. Transfer back to
Arequipa. BL
Day 9 Depart Arequipa
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. BL
Why not extend your trip to Cuzco and Lake
Titicaca?
Why not travel overland to Ecuador or continue
your travels in Peru with a visit to Cuzco?
Gocta Falls
Chachapoyas
Kuelap
Fortress
Trujillo
Chan Chan
Chiclayo
PERU
Lima
Lima
PE RU
Paracas
Paracas
N.P.
Nazca Lines
Lake
Titicaca
Colca
Canyon
Arequipa
27
BOLIVIA .com . au
w w w .contourstravel
Peru
Peru was unreal; our guide in Cuzco was
wonderful, his knowledge and passion for
his country was excellent. The local operator
was a very organised company, thank you for
choosing them. It was a wonderful experience.
-Anne & Neil, April 2013
Sunrise over Machu Picchu
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INCA EMPIRE
13 Days/ 12 Nights
Lima to La Paz
Day 1 Lima
Day 7 Cuzco
Day 2 Lima
City Tour of Lima including the most important
architectural icons of the city, such as the Main
Square, Government Palace, the Cathedral
and the Archbishop’s Palace. Then, continue
to the San Francisco Convent, an architectonic
jewel dating back to the 16th century. The
tour continues to Miraflores, the Park of Love,
and includes the Larco Herrera Museum. B
A rare sighting of a Spectacled Bear
captured by Contours’ Director Ted
Day 3 Lima/ Cuzco/ Sacred Valley
Fly to Cuzco. Afternoon at leisure to
acclimatise to the altitude. B
Day 4 Sacred Valley
Full day touring Pisac market
Ollantaytambo town & ruins. BL
and
Travel by Vistadome train (option to upgrade
to Hiram Bingham by Orient Express) to Machu
Picchu and enjoy a guided tour of the ruins. BL
Enjoy a second visit to Machu Picchu at your
own pace. Go early to see the dawn rise over
the ruins. Return to Cuzco. B
City tour of Cuzco and nearby ruins
including the Santo Domingo Convent,
Main Square, Sacsayhuaman Fortress, the
archaeological sites of Qenko, Puca-Pucara
and Tambomachay. B
Day 8 Cuzco
Free day to explore the city. Option to visit a
Community Project. B
Day 9 Cuzco/ Puno
Travel by bus across the vast altiplano to Puno.
BL (Option to travel by Andean Explorer train.)
Day 10 Puno
Full day exploring Lake Titicaca with a visit
to the Uros reed floating Island and Taquile
Island. BL
Travel by bus and sail across Lake Titicaca by
catamaran to La Paz with a visit to Sun Island
on the way. BL Option to overnight on Sun Is.
Day 12 La Paz
Tour of La Paz, including the Valley of the
Moon and the Witches’ Market. B
Day 13 Depart La Paz
Transfer to the airport. B
Options for this tour include: hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, upgrading to the
Andean Explorer by Orient Express from Cuzco to Puno, overnighting on Sun Island, visit
the Amazon and much more.
28
R e s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Peru
Please ask our expert consultants about
upgrades to the Heritage Trail deluxe
package including luxury properties such
as Rio Sagrado, Machu Picchu Pueblo and
Cuzco’s Monasterio.
TOUR
IV
E
S
CON
Moray
E
X C LU S
HERITAGE TRAIL
13 Days/ 12 Nights
This unique itinerary has been designed to allow you the ultimate experience of this timeless valley. Explore the ancient villages, Andean
landscapes and indigenous cultures of the Urubamba Valley the same way the Inca’s did- on foot.
Day 1 Cuzco/ Pisac
Met on arrival in Cuzco. Travel to Pisac in the
Sacred Valley, via the weaving village of
Awanakancha. Relax & adjust to the altitude. L
Day 2 Pisac/ Yucay
Visit the Pisac Ruins early this morning and
walk back to the village via trails crossing
ancient terraces. Visit Pisac Market and enjoy
lunch before you travel to Yucay. BL
Day 3 Yucay
Take a short hike along the valley floor through
terraced farmlands, once the extensive
property of Inca Huayna Capac, with a picnic
lunch included. Afternoon at leisure. BL
Day 4 Yucay/ Maras/ Ollantaytambo
Your great day starts with a drive out of the
valley to the Chinchero high plains offering
great views of the snow-capped Andes. Visit
the terraced rings of Moray, then take a
relaxed downhill walk to the salt terraces of
Maras. Enjoy a picnic lunch before descending
to the Urubamba River. BL
Day 5 Ollantaytambo
Guided visit to the ruins of Ollantaytambo.
Afternoon at leisure to explore this charming
village; don’t miss the plaza full of local
vendors in traditional dress. B
Day 6 Ollantaytambo/ Cachiccata
This morning’s walk is to Cachiccata, the quarry
that supplied the stonework for Ollantaytambo
fortress. See if you can spot the pyramid of
Pacaritanpu! Lunch is at Heart’s Café, one of
the community projects that we support. BL
Day 7 Patacancha Valley & Huilloc
Early departure by road into Patacancha
Valley, passing some of the best examples
of Incan terrace farming, and arriving at
Huilloc (3,600m). The women of the village
are renowned as fine weavers; many of the
Huilloc men work as porters on the Inca Trail.
Stop at the Punamarca ruins on the return for
a short walk and a picnic lunch. BL
Day 8 Ollantaytambo/ Machu Picchu
Board your early morning train to the
trailhead at Km. 104, where you begin your
beautiful trek to Machu Picchu. Arrive at
Wiñay Wayna, marvel at the engineering
and royal Inca bath high above the valley
floor. BLD
After lunch, continue to the Sun Gate where
you can look upon the ancient citadel just as
the Inca’s did 500 years ago. Walk down
through the ruins at your leisure, enjoying the
spectacular views. BLD
Machu Picchu Pueblo
Km 104
Mt Veronica
Km
Inca Trail
82 Chillca
Q’ente
Wiñay
Wayna
Pumamaraca
Day 9 Machu Picchu
dawn break and the mist rise over Machu
Picchu - a truly unforgettable sight. Enjoy a
guided tour today. Afterwards free time to
explore the ruins on your own. Ask us about
the optional hike to Huayna Picchu which must
be pre-booked. BLD
Mid morning return to Cuzco. Enjoy the rest of
the day exploring Cuzco. B
Day 11 Cuzco
Enjoy a tour of Cuzco exploring by car
and on foot. Also visit the nearby ruins of
Sacsayhuaman, Kenko and Tambomachay. B
Day 12 Cuzco
Free day to relax and further discover this
amazing city, consider an optional tour to one
of our Community Project partners. B
Day 13 Depart Cuzco
Transfer to the airport. Extend your stay with
a tour in the Amazon Jungle, Colca Canyon,
Arequipa or travel to Lake Titicaca. B
Machu
Picchu
Mt. Salcantay
The Sacred Valley
Huilloc
Ollantaytambo
Rio Urubamba
Urubamba
Cachiqata
Salt
Moray
Pans
Maras
travel by road
travel by train
travel on foot
Contents of maps
are not to scale
Calca
Lamay
Yucay
Chinchero
Tambomachay
Anta Sacsayhuaman
Poroy
Cuzco
Qenko
Pisac
Awanacancha
Tipon
to PUNO
29
Peru
Inca Trails
Explore the different trails used by the Incas and discover beautiful
landscapes, charming Andean communities, Inca ruins and incredible
Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the New World.
In recent years, the trail has been diversifying, and it now offers
options for all abilities and budgets. Many Inca trails are available
for exploration, and vary from 1 day trekking, to 4 days camping
and even 10 days overnighting at comfortable lodges along the
way.
All trekking packages include first-hand knowledge from a licensed,
English speaking, local guide. As well as premium camping equipment,
duffel bags, fresh quality meals prepared daily, well-paid and
well-trained porters, relevant permits and ground transportation.
Machu Picchu Pueblo
Mt Veronica
Km 104
Lares Trail
Patacancha
Km
Km
82 Chillca
88
Wiñay
Q’ente
Huilloc
Wayna
Pumamaraca
Ollantaytambo
Inca Trail
Lucma
Cachiqata
Lodge
Quarry Trail
Colpa
Mt. Salcantay
Moray
Lodge
Machu
Picchu
Wayra Lodge
Salcantay Lodge
Other trekking options include the Choquequirao, Lares and
Salkantay trails. Please contact Contours Travel for more details, or
visit our website.
Soraypampa
Choquequirau
INCA TRAIL DISCOVERY
Mollepata
7 Days/ 6 Nights
Departs Saturdays and Tuesdays
Day 1 Cuzco
Day 2 Cuzco/ Inca Trail – Llaqtapata
Depart through the Sacred Valley of the Incas
to the trailhead; trek to your camp near the
terraces of Llaqtapata. (5-6hrs, 11km) BLD
Day 3 Llulluchapampa
Continue up the Cusichaca Valley walking into
the Andean community of Huayllabamba.
The trail ascends steeply to a large Pampa
below the 1st pass. (6hrs, 9km) BLD
Day 4 Phuyupatamarca
A steady walk up to the Warmiwañusqa pass
at 4,200m affords a magnificent view of
our ascent. We descend to Pacaymayo then
trek up to the ruins of Runkuraqay and the
2nd pass. From here we walk down to the
site at Sayacmarca, passing a dry lake - a
beautiful location overlooking the Aobamba
Valley. Continuing along the trail we arrive at
Phuyupatamarca (the village on the edge of
the clouds). (8hrs, 14km) BLD
Day 5 Machu Picchu
Hike to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna. Continue
to Machu Picchu, arriving through the Sun
Gate in the afternoon. (5-6hrs, 11km) BLD
Return to the ruins early this morning for a
guided tour before returning to Cuzco. B
INCA TRAIL EXPRESS
CLASSIC INCA TRAIL
4 Days/ 3 Nights
Departs daily
6 Days/ 5 Nights
Departs daily
Day 1 Cuzco
Day 1 Cuzco
Day 2 Cuzco/ Machu Picchu
Day 2 Cuzco/ Huayllabamba
Travel by bus and train to your trailhead at
Km 104. Hike the last section of the Inca Trail,
arriving into Machu Picchu through the Sun
Gate this afternoon. (6-7 hours) BL
Return to the ruins this morning for a guided
tour before returning to Cuzco. B
Day 4 Depart Cuzco
Transfer to the airport or extend your trip to
Lake Titicaca. B
TAKE NOTE
recommend arriving in Cuzco or
 We
the Sacred Valley at least 2 nights
prior to your trek to acclimatise.
 Inca Trail is closed in February.
500 Inca Trail permits per day
 Only
are sold worldwide, so please book
early!
Travel to Piscacucho, the starting point for the
trek. Hike to Huayllabamba where you set up
camp. (5-6hrs, 12km) BLD
Day 3 Huayllabamba/ Pacaymayo
Trek to the 4,200m Warmiwañusca pass,
before descending to your campsite in
Pacaymayo. (6-7hrs, 11km) BLD
Day 4 Pacaymayo/ Wiñay Wayna
Hike to the 3,900m Runkuracay pass before
descending to the ruins of Sayacmarca.
Continue to Wiñay Wayna, your last
campsite. (8hrs, 16km) BLD
Early morning hike to the Sun Gate for a
spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Descend to the ruins. Return to Cuzco. (2hrs,
4km) B
Day 6 Depart Cuzco
Transfer to the airport or visit Arequipa &
Colca Canyon. B
Day 7 Depart Cuzco
Transfer to the airport or extend your stay in
the Amazon Jungle. B
Ollantaytambo
Chilca
Km 77
to Cuzco
30
Warmiwañusqa Pass Runkuraqay Pass Sayaqmarca
3950m
4200m
Conchamarca
Llulluchapampa
Phuyupatamarca
Runkuraqay
3600m
3580m
Machu Picchu
Yuncanchimpa
2430m
Intipata
Km 82
Chaquicocha
Pacaymayo
Huayllabamba
Inti
Punku
2600m
3530m
Wiñay Wayna
Llaqtapata
Km 88
2650m
Km 104
2100m
Based on a map by Inka Natura
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Machu Picchu Pueblo
Peru
Firstly we all want to thank you for your
professional yet personal touches to our Peru
itinerary. We all agree that we would not
change one thing on our itinerary.
P.S. Pisco Sour is our new favourite drink!!
-Walters Family, May 2012
Lares
The Sacred Valley
Road
Train
Trail
Contents of maps
are not to scale
Rio Urubamba
Salt
Pans
Urubamba
Yucay
Calca
Maras
Lamay
Chinchero
Pisac
Anta
Tambomachay
Sacsayhuaman
Poroy
Awanacancha
Qenko
Cuzco
Tipon
to PUNO
INCA TRAIL LODGE TO LODGE
A great adventure that doesn’t compromise
comfort!
9 Days/ 8 Nights
Daily Departures
Day 1 Cuzco
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Evening briefing.
Day 2 Cuzco/ Salkantay Lodge
Travel to Marcoccasa where you start your trek to
Soraypampa, along the “Camino Real”. (6 hours) BLD
Day 3 Salkantay Lodge
Optional hike to Lake Humantay, fed by the hanging
glaciers of Mt. Humantay. (4 hours) BLD
Day 4 Salkantay Lodge/ Wayra Lodge
Hike up the Rio Blanco valley to the Salkantay Pass at
4,638m. Continue to Wayra Lodge. (6-8 hours) BLD
Day 5 Wayra Lodge/ Colpa Lodge
Continue your descent along the left bank of the
Salkantay River to Colpa Lodge. (3-4 hours) BLD
Day 6 Colpa Lodge/ Lucma Lodge
Hike along the Santa Teresa river valley then transfer
to the beginning of the “Llactapata Inca Trail”. Make
your way to Lucma Lodge. (5-6 hours) BLD
Day 7 Lucma Lodge
Trek uphill towards Llactapata Pass before beginning
your final descent to the Aobamba River. Take the
train to Machu Picchu Pueblo. BLD
Head to the ruins early this morning for a guided tour.
Return to Cuzco this afternoon. B
Day 9 Depart Cuzco
Transfer to the airport or extend your stay in Machu
Picchu, or visit the Amazon Jungle, Nazca Lines or
Lake Titicaca. B
31
Amazon of Peru
We offer trips to cater for a wide range of
our website. Please feel free to contact us to
discuss your travel plans.
HACIENDA CONCEPCION
RESERVA AMAZONICA
POSADA AMAZONAS
Puerto Maldonado
2 and 3 Night packages
Departs daily
Departs daily
Puerto Maldonado
Puerto Maldonado
2 to 4 Night packages
Departs daily
The newest Inkaterra property sits on the
shores of a private lake and is just 20 mins.
downriver from Puerto Maldonado. Guests
enjoy rustic chic design, private facilities with
hot water and a varied menu. A wide range
of land and river excursions for all ages and
abilities are offered.
The lodge is just 45 minutes from Puerto
Maldonado & offers the best tourist
infrastructure in the region, combining comfort
with adventure. Choose from a range of daily
a la carte excursions exploring the surrounding
private ecological reserve.
This simple but comfortable lodge is located
about 2 hours from Puerto Maldonado.
Rooms have private facilities with hot water.
Activities include guided forest walks with
native guides, bird watching and Ayahuasca
ceremonies. Ask us about sister properties
Refugio Amazonas and Tambopata Research
Centre located deeper in the Amazon
rainforest.
MANU WILDLIFE CENTRE
HEATH RIVER WILDLIFE CENTRE
Offers family, romantic and high-end
packages, including the Inkaterra Canopy Tree
House on the Madre de Dios River.
Puerto Maldonado
Puerto Maldonado
5 Days/ 4 Nights
Departs Sundays
4 and 5 Night packages.
Departs Mondays and Thursdays
For the truly adventurous a trip to the remote
Manu Wildlife Centre offers one of the most
intense Amazon experiences in Peru. Delve
deeper into the forest and spend a few nights
at the Manu Tented Camp for the ultimate
jungle trip!
A 5 hour boat ride from Puerto Maldonado,
the Wildlife Centre is located close to the
Bolivian border & boasts one of the world’s
largest macaw clay licks. Programs can be
combined with the Sandoval Lake Lodge or
Cock of the Rock Lodge for a comprehensive
Amazon experience.
EXPLORAMA LODGES
Iquitos
Departs daily
Located 2.5 hours from Iquitos, Explorama
offers 40 rustic rooms with private facilities
and a variety of adventures including the
Seven Bridges Trail & the Canopy Walkway.
Combine with ExplorNapo Lodge to get
deeper into the jungle or the Ceiba C
Tops
OLOMB
Lodge for a superior option.
More lodges available including Sandoval Lake Lodge, Cock of the Rock Lodge and Explorers Inn. Also, longer packages available at each
lodge. Please give us a call, go to our website or visit the Amazon Cruises section pages 35-37.
Manu River
Wildlife Tented Camp
Manu
National
Park
Alto Madre
de Dios River
Cock of the
Rock Lodge
Tres Cruces
Cuzco
Boca
Manu
Rio Napo
Manu Wildlife Centre
Madre de Dios River
PERU
Libertadour
Tambopata Lodge
Puerto
Maldonado
Sandoval Lake
Hacienda
Concepcion
Heath River
Sandoval Lake Lodge Wildlife
Center
Posada Amazonas Lodge
Explorers
Inn
Malinowski River
Tambopata
Research Centre Tambopata River
32
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Reserva
Amazonica
BOLIVIA
Tambopata
Reserve
Heath River
Madidi
National
Park
ExplorNapo
Lodge
Explorama Lodge
Iquitos
Rio Amazonas
Ceiba Tops
Rio
Marañon
Pacaya-Samiria
National
Reserve
PERU
Rio Pacaya
BRAZIL
Amazon Cruises, see pages 35-37
CONTOURS TRAVEL
Stays of Distinction
Some properties are remarkable destinations in their own right. They are places
that deserve a few days stay to enjoy spectacular settings, unsurpassed service
and a touch of luxury. Whether you choose to create an itinerary around the
continent’s best hotels, or splash out for one special night, we’ve got a great
range of choices for you.
33
EXPLORA RAPA NUI
EXPLORA PATAGONIA
MONTAÑA MAGICA
All 30 rooms offer ocean views in this classic
Explora property. Local seafood and sweet
potato add a local flavour to the international
menu. (Easter Island, Chile)
Located in the centre of Torres del Paine
National Park, Hotel Salto Chico offers stunning
views and world class accommodation. Choose
from a range of excursions to suit every fitness
level in their all inclusive packages.
This magical lodge is set in the Huilo Huilo
Biological Reserve and will excite your
imagination with its unusual design. The perfect
place to relax in the midst of the Patagonian
forest. Include it on your fly/ drive holiday in
the Lakes District. (Lakes District, Chile)
(Torres del Paine N.P., Chile)
AWASI ATACAMA
CASA TURQUESA
PALACIO NAZARENAS
With just eight rooms this lodge offers an
intimate experience of the Atacama Desert.
Escape the heat of the day with a refreshing
dip in the hotel pool. By night, enjoy unrivalled
star-gazing over a glass of Chilean wine.
This charming boutique hotel has nine
beautifully appointed rooms set in a restored
colonial house in the heart of Paraty. A tranquil
inner patio contains a garden and swimming
pool for guest’s to enjoy. (Paraty, Brazil)
The latest Orient Express hotel in Cuzco is the
result of years of restoration work. Luxurious
suites blend colonial charm with modern
luxury. Guests enjoy exclusive use of Cuzco’s
first outdoor heated pool. Why not splurge
and book the Orient Express Rio Sagrado in the
Sacred Valley and the deluxe Hiram Bingham
train to Machu Picchu? (Cuzco, Peru)
LAS CASITAS DE COLCA
SOL Y LUNA LODGE
TITILAKA
This luxurious hotel is in the heart of the Colca
Canyon. It is one of the world’s deepest & most
beautiful canyons. 20 cottages are scattered
amongst the hotel grounds offering guests
both luxury and privacy. The bathrooms have
a glass ceiling so you can stargaze as you
soak in the tub! (Colca Canyon, Peru)
Located in the Urubamba Valley, these stunning
bungalows are spread between beautifully
tended gardens and reflect the Sacred Valley’s
cultural heritage in their design and materials.
Kayaking, horse riding, mountain biking and
cooking classes are just some of the activities
on offer. (Sacred Valley, Peru)
Perched on its own private peninsula, and
with only 18 lake view rooms, Titilaka offers
intimate luxury. Enjoy sunrise and sunset
from the overwater deck. Private excursions
and delicious Peruvian cuisine complete the
experience. (Lake Titicaca, Peru)
(San Pedro de Atacama, Chile)
34
Reservations 1300 135 391
Please contact us if you would like to
include one or more of these properties
in your South America Tour itinerary!
LA MIRAGE
CASA GANGOTENA
FINCH BAY ECO HOTEL
Built on the grounds of a 200 year old
hacienda, this contemporary resort features
23 exquisitely decorated rooms, an Andean
spa and a host of activities to experience the
Ecuadorian countryside. (Cotacachi, Ecuador)
A luxury boutique hotel in Quito’s Plaza San
Francisco, Casa Gangotena offers 31 rooms
and world class dining. This historic mansion is
a showcase of antiques and eye-catching style.
This luxury Eco-hotel offers superb comfort in
the fabulous Galapagos Islands. All inclusive
programs include daily excursions, snorkelling
and all meals. (Galapagos Islands, Ecuador)
GALAPAGOS SAFARI CAMP
SAZAGUA
SOFITEL CARTAGENA
A new way to see the Galapagos Islands is to
stay in a luxury tented camp with panoramic
views from your verandah. Safaris combine
land and boat excursions to make the most of
Galapagos wildlife. (Galapagos Islands, Ecuador)
Set in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region,
Sazagua combines a colonial aesthetic with
modern luxury. Ten beautiful suites look out
over lush tropical gardens. A tour to the local
coffee plantations is a must! (Pereira, Colombia)
Originally built as a convent in 1621, the hotel
is now a landmark nestled in the heart of
Cartagena. Its 122 rooms offer a perfect blend
of vintage style and contemporary comfort.
MIO BUENOS AIRES
LA BAMBA DE ARECO
RINCON DEL SOCORRO
Located in the charming Recoleta district of
Buenos Aires, Mio combines state of the art
technology and daring design. A highlight is
the individually carved bathtubs designed by
a local artist. (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Relax in one of the oldest estancias in
Argentina, located close to San Antonio de
Areco in the heart of the Pampa. Experience
the countryside with excursions on horseback
or mountain bike. (San Antonio de Areco, Argentina)
Built in classic Spanish estancia style, this
former cattle ranch is located in the Ibera
Marshlands nature reserve. See the region’s
flora and fauna on horseback, by bicycle or
by boat. (Ibera Marshlands, Argentina)
(Quito, Ecuador)
(Cartagena, Colombia)
35
www.contourstravel.com.au
CASA LAPOSTOLLE
LLAO LLAO HOTEL
MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO
Located 150km south of Santiago, this
boutique lodge is the perfect place to enjoy
nature with sophistication. Four suites, each
equipped with private terrace, are nestled
into the forested hillside and provide views
of the Clos Apalta vineyards. Quality cuisine
and fine wine complete this luxury experience.
Enjoy a bit of pampering in the Argentine
Lakes District. Surrounded by the Cerro Lopez
and Tronador mountain peaks and the Moreno
and Nahuel Huapi lakes, the Hotel has a
15-hectare park, including an 18-hole golf
course, a marina, beach, solarium, heated
indoor and outdoor vanishing edge swimmingpools, Spa and Healthclub with sauna, Fitness
Centre and other leisure activities.
This exquisite hotel is the ideal retreat after
a magnificent day touring the Machu Picchu
Citadel. An intimate 85 cottage luxury hotel
in sprawling Andean village style is set in
a secluded 12 acres of exquisite beauty.
Guests follow stone pathways to their rooms,
located in comfortable one or two-storey
whitewashed casitas.
Exclusive services and amenities include an
Andean sauna, orchid and nature trails and
the Spectacled Bear Project.
(Santa Cruz, Chile)
(Bariloche, Argentina)
(Aguas Calientes, Peru)
COPACABANA PALACE
MASHPI LODGE
NOMADS OF THE SEA
This glamorous Art Deco hotel on Rio’s
Copacabana Beach has been welcoming the
rich and famous since it opened its doors in
1923. Owned by the Orient Express group,
it features luxury suites, some of the finest
restaurants in Rio, an attractive swimming
pool and luxury beach service.
The spectacularly located Mashpi Jungle
Lodge lies within a private reserve protecting
Ecuador’s biodiverse Andean cloud forest.
This intimate property accommodates a
maximum of 44 guests.
The lodge was designed as the ideal
springboard for exploring the unique
world of its reserve. It combines the highest
standards of comfort, service, guiding
and cuisine that today’s most discerning
travellers expect. (Mindo Cloudforest, Ecuador)
Patagonian adventure takes on a new
meaning on this state-of-the-art cruise. Guests
enjoy the unique opportunity of exploring
Patagonia by air, land and water.
Specially designed and built in 2006, the
Atmosphere has capacity for 28 passengers.
On board you will enjoy superb cuisine and
Chilean wines. The vessel is equipped with
jet boats, kayaks, zodiacs, rafts…and a
Bell 407 helicopter to transport guests for
land excursions. (Patagonia, Chile)
(Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
36
Find up-to-date prices on our website. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your travel plans.
CONTOURS TRAVEL
www.contourstravel.com.au
Alan Jordan
1953 - 2013
Taken by Alan in the Galapagos Islands, April 2010
The Prayer Tree
Let us live in such a way
That when we die
Our love will survive
And continue to grow
- Michael Leunig
37
Brazil
Rio de Janeiro optional day tours
Visit the Sambadrome, Tour Santa Teresa,
Favela Tour, Helicopter, Angra dos Reis cruise,
Tropical Islands Cruise, Hike the Sugarloaf,
Hike Tijuca, Visit Maracana soccer stadium,
Tour of the Cathedral & Museums.
Blame it on Rio
Capital City: Brasilia
Language: Portuguese
Visa: Visa is required;
you need to apply before
departure.
Famous For:
Rio de Janeiro, Carnival,
Soccer, Copacabana, Foz
do Iguaçu, Amazon Jungle,
Samba, the “Girl from
Ipanema” & caipirinhas.
Phrases to learn:
Tudo bem? - Everything
good? (Used as a greeting)
Obrigado - Thanks
Fique tranquilo - Don't worry
(It has a very calming effect)
Onde esta a praia? - Where
is the beach?
VENEZUELA
GUYANA
SURINAME
Bonfim
COLOMBIA
Highlights of Brazil
FRENCH
GUIANA
Boa Vista
Rio Negro
Tabatinga
Tefe
Rio
Amazonas
Santarem
Fortaleza
Rio Solimoes
5
Natal
Recife
BRAZIL
Maceio
Alta Floresta
PERÚ
Cuiaba
BOLIVIA
CHILE
3
Granite mountains, white-sand beaches and
lush rainforest combine to create one of the
world’s most spectacular cities. Stroll along
lively Copacabana beach, admire panoramic
views of the city from Corcovado Mountain,
and ride the cable car to Sugarloaf.
Fernando de
Noronha
Belem
Manaus
1. Rio de Janeiro
Ilha de Marajo
Brasilia
Pantanal
PARAGUAY
Salvador
(Bahia)
Belo Horizonte
Ouro Preto
Campo Grande
Bonito
1
Buzios
Paraty
Sao Paulo
Rio de Janeiro
2
Foz do
Iguaçu
Curitiba
Florianopolis
Porto Alegre
ARGENTINA
URUGUAY
38
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
4
2. Foz do Iguaçu
The Brazilian side of the falls boasts the
best panoramic views of majestic Iguaçu.
Surrounded by tropical forest it offers great
birding opportunities.
3. Pantanal
For wildlife enthusiasts, a trip to the world’s
largest wetland region is hard to beat.
See Blue Hyacinth macaw, Giant anteater,
Armadillo, toucan and more with a stay in a
traditional fazenda.
4. Beaches
Brazil boasts more than 7,000km of coastlineand some of the best beaches in South
America! With surfing hotspots, ultra-chic
resorts and pristine islands, you will be sure
to find the right beach for you.
5. Amazon Region
Fly to Manaus to join a cruise on the mighty
Amazon River or head out to one of the many
lodges in the region.
See the famous Meeting
Atlantic
Oceanthe Rio Negro and Rio
of the Waters where
Solimoes converge.
Brazil
The guides were very good & certainly knew
their facts. The Amazon is very much a Bird
Watchers paradise. Fished for & ate Piranha,
swam in the Rio Negro & saw lots of pink
dolphins, caimans, sloth, monkeys & tarantulas.
-Diane & Murray, September 2009
Bahia
Bonito
RIO & FOZ DO IGUAÇU
COLONIAL BRAZIL
SALVADOR & BEACHES
6 Days/ 5 Nights
7 Days/ 6 Nights
7 Days/ 6 Nights
Day 1 Salvador
Day 2 Salvador de Bahia
Full day city tour including Christ the Redeemer
and cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain for
a 360 degree view of Rio and its famous
beaches. Brazilian BBQ lunch included. BL
Day at leisure. B
Day 4 Rio de Janeiro/ Foz do Iguaçu
Fly to Foz do Iguaçu. Afternoon tour of the
Brazilian side of the falls. B
Day 5 Iguazu Falls
Full day tour of the Argentine side of the Falls
including the Devil’s Throat balcony. B
Day 6 Depart Foz do Iguaçu
Transfer to the airport or why not extend your
stay in Brazil with a visit to the Pantanal?
Full day city tour including Christ the
Redeemer and cable car to Sugarloaf
Mountain. Brazilian BBQ lunch included. BL
Day 3 Rio de Janeiro/ Paraty
Travel south along the green coast to colonial
Paraty, one of Brazil’s most appealing and
exquisitely preserved historical gems. B
Days 4- 5 Paraty
Days at leisure to explore the town’s irregular
cobblestone streets. Step back in time strolling
this National Historic Site, or enjoy the beach
and hinterland. B
Day 6 Paraty/ Rio de Janeiro
Return to Rio today and day at leisure. B
Day 7 Depart Rio de Janeiro
Foz do
Iguaçu
Salvador is the centre of Afro-Brazilian culture
and one of the country’s most colourful and
fascinating cities. Half day tour of Pelourinho,
the UNESCO listed historic centre. B
Day 3 Salvador de Bahia
Day at leisure. This evening you’ll see one of
the best folklore dance groups of the region
at Miguel Sanata Theatre. B
Day 4 Salvador/ Morro de Sao Paulo
Transfer to the dock for the catamaran to
Morro de Sao Paulo, an idyllic village on the
tip of Tinhare Island. Enjoy a walking tour of
the town with the afternoon at leisure. B
Days 5- 6 Morro de Sao Paulo
At leisure to relax and explore. B, B
extensions to Foz do Iguaçu, the Amazon or
Ouro Preto. B
Day 7 Morro de Sao Paulo/ Salvador
If the colonial city of Paraty isn’t for you,
consider traveling north from Rio to the ultrachic beach resort village of Buzios.
Other beach options include Recife/ Olinda,
Fortaleza, Maceio or the island paradise of
Fernando de Noronha for great diving.
BRAZIL
BRAZIL
Paraty
Rio de
Janeiro
Paraty
Sao
Paulo
Take the catamaran back to Salvador; transfer
to the airport for your onwards flight. B
BRAZIL
Buzios
Salvador
(Bahia)
Rio de
Janeiro
Morro de Sao Paulo
RIO CARNIVAL
2014: Feb 28 - Mar 4, 2015: Feb 13 - 17, 2016: Feb 5 - 9, 2017: Feb 24 - 28, 2018: Feb 9 - 13
Although Carnival is celebrated throughout Brazil and other Catholic countries, Rio has long been regarded as the Carnival Capital of the
World. Experience the exuberant music, dance and cultural events that make this the world’s biggest street party!
39
Amazon of Brazil
We offer trips to cater for a wide range of
our website. Please feel free to contact us to
discuss your travel plans.
ANAVILHANAS JUNGLE LODGE
ECOPARK JUNGLE LODGE
Manaus
Minimum stay 3 Days/ 2 Nights
Manaus
Located 3.5 hours from Manaus, Anavilhanas
Jungle Lodge has 20 exclusive suites arranged
in cottages and bungalows with air conditioning
and private balconies, plus a swimming pool
for guests. Choose from a range of activities
including jungle hikes, fishing, canoe rides, pink
dolphin spotting and visits to local communities.
Located about one hour from Manaus on the
Taruma River and accessible by road and
river. The lodge offers 64 rooms spread
among 20 wooden bungalows, all equipped
with air conditioning, plus a pool and private
river beach. Tour options include fishing trips,
Meeting of the Waters, night canoe trips and
jungle walks.
CRISTALINO JUNGLE LODGE
CAIMAN ECOLOGICAL REFUGE
Alta Floresta
Located in the Southern Amazon about two
hours from Alta Floresta Airport, the lodge
places an emphasis on sustainable tourism
practices. Guests enjoy chic accommodation,
spacious common areas and a floating river
deck. The lodge offers programs for all
nature lovers, including bird-watching, family
groups and photography.
Pantanal
4 Days/ 3 Nights departs Thursdays
5 Days/ 4 Nights departs Sundays
This working cattle ranch is located 4 hours
from Campo Grande Airport, in Pantanal.
Choose from luxury suites or standard
accommodation with air-conditioning and
private facilities. Enjoy cosy common areas,
fabulous home-style meals and a swimming
pool. Activities include photo safaris, trail
walking and canoe rides. Why not extend
your trip with a visit to Bonito?
More lodges, cruises and packages available. Please contact us or visit the Amazon section
of our website for details.
40
Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
We just spotted a jaguar on the river bank!
It was amazing... So lucky! Our guide told us
he hasn't seen one for 3 years... I'm so stoked!
Everyone is!
-John, October 2011
Amazon Cruises
Amazon Cruises
1. Peru
Cruises out of Iquitos explore three upper Amazon
tributaries running through the Pacaya Samiria
National Reserve, the Marañon, Ucayali and
Puinahua Rivers. Pacaya Samiria is the world’s
largest protected flooded forest and offers great
opportunities for spotting pink river dolphins, the
three-toed sloth, monkeys, birds and more.
Venezuela
Suriname
French
Guiana
Guyana
Colombia
2. Ecuador
Board your cruise on the Rio Napo, just a 30 minute
flight from Quito. Explore the Yasuni National Park,
with some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the
world; truly a birdwatcher’s paradise with almost
600 species in the park alone.
3. Brazil
For passengers wanting to experience the immensity
of the Amazon River’s main tributary, a cruise
departing from Manaus is the best option. See the
famous Meeting of the Waters, the confluence of
dark water Rio Negro and the sandy coloured
Solimoes River.
Limoncocha Lake
Rio Negro
Rio Napo
Ecuador Coca
Rio Solimões
Rio Marañón Iquitos
Tabatinga
Anavilhanas
Archipelago
Manaus
Ama zo n
Peru
Belem
Brazil
Rio Ucayali
Puerto Maldonado
Bolivia
41
Amazon Cruises
M/V AQUA
M/V ARIA
Iquitos, Peru
Iquitos, Peru
3, 4 & 7 Night cruises
The 130 foot M/V Aqua was custom built in
2007 to offer an extraordinary level of comfort.
The 24 passenger luxury vessel has 12 guest
suites featuring en suite sitting areas and
generous outward-facing picture-windows
with panoramic Amazon River views.
Completed in 2011, the 147 foot M/V Aria
offers superb accommodation for 32 guests
plus an outdoor jacuzzi and exercise room.
The M/V Aria’s sixteen oversized design
suites, feature en suite sitting areas and
generous outward-facing picture-windows
with panoramic Amazon River views.
7 night cruises explore the Pacaya Samiria
Reserve and tributaries of the upper Amazon
including the Marañon, Ucayali, Yanallpa,
Puinahua and Pacaya Rivers.
Meeting of the Waters
On a 7 night cruise you can experience the
Amazon River’s three powerful tributaries: the
Marañon, the Ucayali, and the Puinahua as
well as several hidden black water lakes.
M/V TUCANO
M/V AMAZON CLIPPER PREMIUM
Manaus, Brazil
Manaus, Brazil
4 & 7 Night cruises
Accommodating a maximum of 18 passengers,
the Motor Yacht Tucano is comfortable,
intimate, efficient and fun. This is not a luxury
cruise, but rather a base for an exhilarating
Amazon adventure. The riverboat features
a large outdoor deck, air conditioned salon
and beautiful woodwork throughout.
The 7 night voyage explores some of the
most untouched rainforest in the Amazon,
venturing up the Rio Negro channels. Visit the
Lago Janauari Ecological Park, Anavilhanas
Archipelago and the northernmost point of
the cruise, the Rio Jauaperi.
The luxury riverboat M/V Amazon Clipper
Premium hosts 32 guests in 16 spacious
outside cabins, with lower beds and private
facilities en suite.
Common areas include an air conditioned
dining room, sundeck with 360° panoramic
views, lecture room with library, jacuzzi and
outdoor showers for refreshing and relaxing.
Five night cruises explore the Amazon and Rio
Negro, including the Lago Janauari Ecological
Park and Anavilhanas Archipelago.
Daily activities include: piranha fishing, visit to Pedro Miguel community, guided jungle
walks, night excursions, kayaking, visit to the clay licks, caiman spotting, canoe trips and
Meeting of the Waters in Brazil.
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Re s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
Amazon Cruises
M/V DELFIN I & II
MANATEE AMAZON EXPLORER
Iquitos, Peru
Coca, Ecuador
3 & 4 Night cruises
The newly refurbished Delfin I accommodates
8 passengers in four suites, all with private
terraces and two with private whirlpool
baths. The Delfin II sleeps 28 guests. Both
vessels offer modern luxury while cruising the
Amazon.
The Manatee Explorer has accommodation
for 30 guests across three decks; all with
air conditioning and private facilities. Social
areas include interior and exterior dining
areas, sun deck, library and computer lounge
with internet access.
Cruises explore the Pacaya Samiria National
Reserve and include the Ucayali, Puinahua,
Pacaya or Marañon Rivers depending on your
chosen cruise length.
Seven night itineraries explore magical
flooded forests at the Cuyabeno Nature
Reserve, untamed wild within the Yasuni
National Park, and the quiet waters of
Limoncocha Lagoon.
Activities include Manatee Rescue Centre.
M/V DESAFIO
Activities include canopy observation tower,
Butterfly House and glamping (glamorous
camping!) optional.
M/V ANAKONDA
Manaus, Brazil
Coca, Ecuador
3 & 6 Night cruises
This newly refurbished wooden-hulled
schooner features 12 cabins divided between
the upper and lower decks and sleeps 24
passengers.
The newly built M/V Anakonda is the only
luxury ship in the Ecuadorian Amazon and
accommodates 40 guests in 18 suites. Common
areas include dining room, bar, observation
deck with jacuzzi, and the al fresco lounge.
Seven night itineraries explore flooded
forests at the Cuyabeno Nature Reserve,
untamed wild within the Yasuni National Park,
and the quiet waters of Limoncocha Lagoon.
Common areas include an air conditioned
restaurant with panoramic windows and an
outdoor sundeck with bar.
Six night cruises will take you to Anavilhanas,
the largest river archipelago in the world
with over 400 islands. You will also visit the
Jau National Park, containing the largest
protected tropical rainforest in the world.
Activities include Amazonian Water Museum,
Archaeological & Ethnographic Museum and
glamping (glamorous camping!) optional.
See page 30 for map of Peruvian Amazon Cruises.
43
Ecuador
Quito Optional Day Tours
Cable car for great views of the city from the
Andes, Middle of the World Park, Company
of Jesus Church, Otavalo Market, Quilotoa
Crater, Cotopaxi National Park.
Land of Diversity
Capital City: Quito
Language: Spanish
Visa: No visa is required;
however you must hold a
valid passport & a return
ticket or onward travel
arrangements.
Famous For:
Galapagos Islands, Middle
of the World monument,
roses, “Panama” hats, train
across the Andes & its great
diversity.
Phrases to learn:
Bacan or Chevere - Cool
Farra - Party
Pana - Friend
Cuy - Guinea Pig
Highlights of Ecuador
1. Quito
A colonial gem, UNESCO Heritage listed Quito is filled with
fascinating museums, contemporary galleries and stunning boutique
hotels. “Must see” day trips include the Middle of the World and
Otavalo Market.
2. Galapagos Islands
A highlight of any trip to South America! Unique wildlife and
spectacular volcanic landscapes; a ‘living museum and showcase
of evolution’.
COLOMBIA
Esmeraldas
2
To Galapagos Islands
Mindo
4. Cuenca
Pacific
Enjoy UNESCO Heritage listed Cuenca’s laid-back, small town
Ocean
atmosphere with cobblestone streets, graceful balconies and
1
Quito
Manta
Ambato
ECUADOR
Guayaquil
5
Tena
Baños
Riobamba
Rio Pastaza
Alausi
Devil’s Nose Train
Ingapirca
Machala
Cuenca
Vilcabamba
nds
4
Loja
al
hla
R e s e r v a t io n s 1300 135 391
R
Rio Napo
Coca
Yasuni N.P.
Latacunga
Hig
44
Equator
Machachi
ast
Co
Community based tourism thrives in Ecuador’s Amazon Basin.
Leaving Quito in the morning, you can be swinging in a hammock
at your chosen lodge by lunchtime.
Lago Agrio
Vol. Cotopaxi
3
religious art treasures.
5. Amazon Region
Otavalo
Cayambe
Vol. Pichincha Papallacta
3. Avenue of the Volcanos
Galapagos
Travel overland
from Islands
Quito to Cuenca, stopping at colonial
haciendas, visiting markets and national parks along the Andes
or catching a newly restored train! Hike along the Avenue of the
Volcanos with our exclusive Camino de las Haciendas tour.
Tulcan
Ibarra
Am
azon
P ERU
Ecuador
IV
E
S
TOUR
X C LU S
E
COLOURFUL ECUADOR
CON
What a fabulous trip we had! There were
a few times that I just had to pinch myself
to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. Thanks for
allowing me the opportunity to travel to such
a spectacular destination.
-Leopold, December 2010
CAMINO DE
LAS HACIENDAS
8 Days/ 7 Nights
17 Days/ 16 Nights
Day 1 Quito
Day 2 Otavalo Market
Full day tour to Ecuador’s famous market. BL
Day 3 Quito
Half day city tour of colonial Quito including
the Middle of the World monument. B
Day 4 Galapagos Islands
Step back in time and experience first-hand
authentic Andean life with a touch of luxury.
Hike along Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanos,
meet friendly communities along the way
and overnight in lovingly restored historic
haciendas.
Day 1 Quito
Day 2 Quito
Days 5 & 6 Galapagos Islands
Day 3 Quito/ Sierra Alisos
Day 2 Quito
Walking tour of colonial Quito. B
Day 7 Quito
Disembark and fly back to Quito. B
Day 8 Amazon Jungle
Day 4 Sierra Alisos/ La Alegria
Days 9 & 10 Amazon Lodge
Daily excursions include canopy walking,
macaw clay lick on the river bank, jungle trails
and night canoe rides for caiman spotting. BLD
Day 11 Quito
Return to Coca and fly to Quito. BL
Day 12 Quito
Day at leisure. B
Set off for the 3,300m pass and then
descend through beautiful farmland. Enjoy a
picnic lunch en route to Hacienda La Alegria
(2,950m). (4-5 hours walking) BLD
Day 5 La Alegria/ Hosteria La Estacion
Ascend along the northern base of Mt. Corazon
(3,250m). Enjoy lunch with views of Pasochoa
and Sincholahua. Descend to Hosteria La
Estacion. (4-5 hours walking) BLD
Day 6 Hosteria La Estacion/ Umbria
Day 13 Hacienda Umbria
Travel to Hacienda Umbria in the Avenue of
Volcanos. Enjoy a cooking class. BLD
Day 14 Riobamba
Continue to Riobamba, admiring the views of
the Cotopaxi Volcano. BD
Day 15 Devils Nose
Take the train and ride down the Devil’s Nose.
Continue to Cuenca via the Ingapirca ruins. BLD
Day 16 Cuenca
Half day city tour of Cuenca. B
Historic train stations and rail coaches have
been restored to their former glory to create
a very special trip through the Ecuadorian
highlands. The highlight is the thrilling descent
into the Devil's Nose. Train departs Tuesdays
from Quito.
Train to Tambillo, then hike two hours to Sierra
Alisos del Campo (3,100m), with views to
Cotopaxi Volcano. BLD
Fly over the Andes to Coca. A canoe will take
you down river to the Amazon Lodge. BLD
7 Days/ 6 Nights
Shared Tour, Fortnightly Departures
Day 1 Quito
Arrival transfer to your hotel.
Flight to the Galapagos Islands to start your
4 Day/ 3 Night cruise. BD
Two full days cruising the islands. BLD
HIGHLANDS BY RAIL
Early departure, ascending to 3,600m.
Stop for picnic lunch with spectacular views
of the Machachi Valley. Descend through
cloud forest to Hacienda Umbria. (6-7 hours
walking) BLD
Day 7 Umbria/ Papallacta
Transfer to Papallacta; overnight at the
thermal hot springs. BD
Day 8 Depart Quito
Transfer to the airport or extend your stay at
any of the Haciendas. B
Half day city tour of colonial Quito including
the Middle of the World monument. B
Day 3 Quito – Lasso
Board the Tren Crucero and start your
adventure. Stop at Cotopaxi National Park
for lunch. Overnight at a local hacienda. BLD
Day 4 Lasso – Riobamba
Continue your train journey. Stop at a
rose plantation. See the landscape of the
Chimborazo volcano. Overnight at Hosteria
Abraspungo. BLD
Day 5 Riobamba – Bucay
Travel today with a steam locomotive. Visit
the Balbanera church before stopping at an
indigenous market. This afternoon travel the
series of switchbacks known as the Devil’s
Nose. Overnight at a local hacienda. BLD
Day 6 Bucay – Duran – Guayaquil
Walk through the cloud forest and visit to the
Shuar community. After lunch board the train
to Duran. Transfer to Guayaquil. BL
Day 7 Depart Guayaquil
Transfer to the airport or extend your
adventure with a cruise to the Galapagos
Islands. B
Train does not run Mar-May or Sep-Nov.
Day 17 Cuenca
Transfer to the airport for your flight. B
COLOMBIA
C OL OMB I A
Vol. Pichincha
To the
Galapagos Is.
Quito
Hacienda Umbria
Riobamba
Otavalo
Rio Napo
Coca
Vol. Cotopaxi
ECUA D OR
Devil’s Nose Train
Ingapirca
Cuenca
P E RU
Vol. Pichincha
Quito
Tambillo
Hacienda Umbria
Quito
Lasso
E C UA D OR
Vol. Cotopaxi
Latacunga
Papallacta
Vol. Cotopaxi
ECUADOR
Ambato
Duran
Riobamba
Guayaquil
Bucay Devil’s Nose
Train
Cuenca
P E RU
45
Ingapirca Ruins
46
Amazon of Ecuador
KAPAWI
SACHA LODGE
Achuar Territory
Rio Napo, Coca
3 & 4 Night packages
3 & 4 Night packages
Accessible only by air, Kapawi is located
in the most remote and pristine part of the
Ecuadorian Amazon in Achuar indigenous
territory. Kapawi Ecolodge was created
according to Achuar designs and built by
local craftsmen; each cabin contains private
facilities with solar-powered hot water. All
activities at the lodge are accompanied by
a native Achuar and professional naturalist
guide.
Located 80km downriver from Coca and
within its own private 5,000 acre reserve,
Sacha Lodge is constructed from traditional
materials and contains 26 cabins all with
private facilities and hot water. Enjoy cooling
dips in Pilchicocha Lake and exclusive
attractions such as The Canopy Walk, Kapok
Tower and Butterfly House.
LA SELVA ECOLODGE
NAPO WILDLIFE CENTRE
Rio Napo, Coca
Yasuni National Park
3 or 4 Night packages
Departs daily
3 or 4 Night packages
Departs daily except Sundays
La Selva Ecolodge reopened in mid-2012
after extensive remodelling and now has
accommodations for 50 guests. The lodge
is located on Lake Garzacocha, about 2.5
hours downriver from Coca. New facilities
include eco-suites, a 35m observation tower
and an organic restaurant. In addition to
jungle activities, night walks and canoe trips,
La Selva offers massage therapy and yoga
retreats.
A luxury ecolodge located within Yasuni
National Park, about two hours from Coca.
The lodge was built by the Anangu Quichua
Community and contains 16 luxury cabanas
all with lake and forest view. Activities include
canoe trips, jungle walks and community visits
with your local guide. An observation tower
offers views of the Andes on a clear day!
COLOMBIA
Lago Agrio
Cuyabeno Wildlife
Reserve
Papallacta
Sacha Lodge
Coca
La Selva
Lodge
Yachana Lodge
Tena
Casa del Suizo
Nuevo
Rocafuerte
Yasuni
National
Park
Puyo
E C UA D O R
P E RU
Kapawi
47
Galapagos Islands
Season: Can be visited
all year round. December
to May is warm & wet &
June to December is cool
& dry.
Fact: The Galapagos
Islands comprise 18
main islands & 3 smaller
islands.
Highlights: Galapagos
was declared the 1st
World Heritage site by
UNESCO in 1978; it
has abundant fearless
wildlife, the only lizard
to swim in the ocean, the
Galapagos tortoise which
outlives most humans
& numerous species of
finches which inspired
Charles Darwin’s theory
of ‘The Origin of Species’.
Don’t forget: binoculars,
sunglasses, bathing suit &
a good camera!
Highlights of the
Galapagos
1. Bartolome
Famous for Pinnacle Rock, the best known landmark in the
Galapagos Islands.
2. Isabela
The largest of all the Galapagos Islands; formed by six
volcanos. Home to the highest point in the GalapagosWolf Volcano at 1,707m.
3. North Seymour
One of the richest central islands in terms of birdlife, with
a large population of frigate birds, blue-footed boobies
and gulls.
4. Santa Cruz
Home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, which offers
visitors the best chance of a close up encounter with giant
tortoises.
Pinta
Darwin
Playa Negra
Punta Flores
Cabo
Berkeley
Cabo Marshall
Isla Albany
Punto Moreno
Isabela
7. Fernandina
Astounding volcanic landscapes dotted with lava cacti. The
Bolivar Channel is the best place in the Galapagos to spot
dolphins and whales.
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Pacific
Ocean
San
Cristobal
Punta Dedo
Pto. Ayora
Santa Fe
Puerto B. Moreno
Puerto Villamil
Post Office Bay
Punta Sur
Isla Caldwell
Santa Maria
A great island for birdwatchers; see the rare red-footed
booby, tropic birds, petrels and short eared owls.
The southernmost island has a breath taking variety of
flora and fauna. Waved Albatross, Giant Tortoise and Red
Marine Iguana are highlights.
Equator
Bartolome
North Seymour
Rabida Baltra
Pinzon Santa
Plaza
Cruz
Fernandina
Punta Essex
Genovesa
Santiago
Cabo Douglas
Punta San Juan
Marchena
Punta Albemarie
5. Genovesa
6. Española
Cabo Ibbetson
Española
Punta Cevallos
8. Floreana
Fascinating human history; see the ‘post office’ established by
whalers in 1793. Snorkel at Devil’s Crown for a chance to see
sting rays, penguins and sea lions.
9. South Plaza Island
This tiny island has one of the biggest sea lion colonies in the
archipelago.
My first and primary interest was to travel to
the Galapagos. The 7 nights on the boat were
wonderful and the naturalist guides we had
were incredibly knowledgeable – we couldn’t
ask for more.
- Phillip & Fiona, August 2013
Galapagos Islands
ISLAND HOPPING
DIVING IN GALAPAGOS
Perfect for those wanting to spend most of
their time on land, island hopping itineraries
offer a fantastic alternative to traditional
cruises.
Land-based excursions typically visit different
sites than ships, offering a unique Galapagos
experience.
The itinerary below is a sample only- many
different options exist with varying standards
of accommodation available.
The Galapagos Islands offer some of the
best diving sites in the world where you can
experience an immense variety of marine life.
Casual divers should look to one of our landbased options and make daily dive trips.
Experienced divers (Advanced Open Water
required) can opt for one of the fantastic
dive/cruise options available.
Ask us about more scuba diving options.
6 Days/ 5 Nights Island Hopping
Day 1 Charles Darwin Station
Fly to Baltra Island. Transfer to Primicias Ranch
to see the Giant Turtles. Continue to the Charles
Darwin Station to learn about the turtle breeding
program. Overnight in Puerto Ayora. LD
Day 2 Bartolome Island
Speed boat transfer for a full day in
Bartolome. See impressive lava formations
and the famous Pinnacle Rock. Snorkel with
penguins, marine turtles, sea lions and multicoloured fish. BLD
Day 3 Santa Cruz/ Isabela Island
Speed boat transfer to Isabela, home to
the largest population of giant turtles,
Galapagos penguin, cormorants, Marine and
Land Iguanas. Overnight in Isabela Island. BLD
Day 4 Isabela Island
Visit Los Humedales, a zone rich in mangroves,
lava tunnels and natural sea water pools
where you will see pink flamingo colonies.
Speed boat to Concha Perla bay to swim
with penguin and sea lions then continue to
Tintoreras to see Whitetip Reef sharks and
marine turtles. Overnight in Puerto Villamil. BLD
M/V Galapagos Sky
Embark Sundays
Day 1 Isla Lobos
Fly to San Cristobal Island and board the
M/V Galapagos Sky. Cruise to Los Lobos for
an introduction to Galapagos sea lions and
marine life.
Day 2 Bartolome – 2 dives
Enjoy two dives today plus a land tour for
breathtaking panoramic views. Cousins Rocks
allows great viewing opportunities of corals,
sea horses, Barracuda, Hammerhead sharks
and octopus.
Day 3 to 5 Wolf & Darwin – 11 dives
Most experienced divers will agree, Wolf
and Darwin are the best diving sites in the
Galapagos. See Hammerhead sharks and
Bottlenose dolphins, as well as the occasional
Tiger shark or Orca. Night dive to see the Red
Lipped Batfish.
Day 6 Cabo Marshall – 3 dives
Day 5 Sierra Negra & Chico Volcanos
At Cape Marshall you have the best
opportunity to see Manta rays and Mobula
rays, Hammerhead sharks, turtles, Whitetip
Reef sharks and feeding sea lions. A panga
ride offers great photo ops for penguins,
Flightless cormorants.
Day 6 Isabela/ Santa Cruz Airport
Isla Pinzon offers encounters with sharks, sea
lions, mantas, Eagle rays, Moray eels and
tropical fish. Transfer to the Highlands of
Santa Cruz to see the Galapagos tortoises,
and the Charles Darwin Research Centre.
Short drive to Sierra Negra Volcano. Walk
for 40 minutes and continue by riding horses,
reaching the crater of the volcano. With a
little bit of luck, see the sparrow hawk of the
Galapagos. Free afternoon. BLD
Day 7 Isla Pinzon - 1 dive
Transfer to the port for a two and a half hour
boat trip. Fly back to the mainland. B
Day 8 San Cristobal
Option to extend your trip in mainland
Ecuador, why not join an Amazon Cruise or
explore Machu Picchu in Peru?
All meals and beverages included.
Late morning departure.
More itineraries available for different islands.
Island Hopping can be combined with a cruise itinerary to outer islands.
49
Galapagos Cruises
M/V LA PINTA
OCEAN SPRAY CATAMARAN
ISABELA II
48 Passengers
16 Passengers
40 Passengers
Ultimate luxurious adventure. Amenities
include large observation lounge, library,
jacuzzi,
small
gym,
glass-bottomed
observation boat and kayaks.
Mega-catamaran combines great comfort,
speed and top guides. Amenities include a
huge sundeck, jacuzzi and kayaks to discover
the island’s marine wildlife.
A deluxe yacht offering adventure, safety
and comfort in a relaxed atmosphere. A
glass bottom boat allows easy underwater
viewing; sea kayaks and snorkelling gear are
also provided.
CORMORANT
M/V SANTA CRUZ
CACHALOTE
16 Passengers
90 Passengers
16 Passengers
Brand new deluxe catamaran offering
private balconies for each stateroom and
ample social areas including sun deck and
jacuzzi. Kayaks, snorkelling gear and wetsuits
available.
Great option for those looking for optimum
service and a larger vessel. Amenities include
sun deck, jacuzzi, lounge, boutique, reading
room and a glass-bottom boat.
A first class schooner rigged boat; all cabins
are equipped with air-conditioning and
private bathrooms. Plenty of space over three
decks to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
BELUGA
M/V GALAPAGOS LEGEND
MAJESTIC
16 Passengers
100 Passengers
18 Passengers
This superior first class motor yacht is a
fantastic way to cruise in style. Private
facilities, air-conditioning throughout and
ample deck space will ensure guests comfort.
Offers all the amenities of a larger cruise.
Family suites, large social areas, kid’s corner
and a pool ensure that families are well
catered for.
The deluxe Majestic Motor Yacht is a brand
new custom-built boat with huge sundeck,
well-appointed cabins and jacuzzi.
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Galapagos Cruises
EVOLUTION
GRACE
SILVER GALAPAGOS
32 Passengers
18 Passengers
100 Passengers
A charming expedition yacht with spacious
cabins. Meals are served in the dining room or
al fresco; relax on the ample sun deck, jacuzzi
or bar. Kayaks, wetsuits and snorkelling gear
provided.
Iconic yacht named after former owner
Princess Grace of Monaco. Enjoy indoor
and al fresco dining, sun deck with loungers
and jacuzzi and sea kayaks. Kids Club and
children’s menu great for families.
The newest in Silverseas’ fleet of ultra-luxury
ships. All cabins are ocean-view suites, most
feature private balconies – and all offer the
personalised services of a professional butler.
ODYSSEY
GRAND ODYSSEY
GALAXY
16 Passengers
16 Passengers
16 Passengers
First class sailing yacht Odyssey has elegant
social areas with sun loungers, jacuzzi, internet
access and bar. Spacious cabins include
windows that can be opened for fresh air.
Grand Odyssey features 8 spacious suites,
large sun deck with loungers and two jacuzzis.
Kayaks and snorkelling gear provided.
First class motor yacht featuring comfortable
cabins all with lower beds. Social areas
include dining room, bar & lounge and sun
deck.
M/Y CORAL I & II
M/Y AIDA MARIA & EDEN
LETTY, FLAMINGO, ERIC
36 & 20 Passengers
16 Passengers
20 Passengers each
First class yachts offering comfortable and
elegant accommodation. The jacuzzi, sun and
shadow decks will give you a perfect space
to relax.
Superior Tourist and First Class yachts
offering stylish comfort and value for money.
Enjoy upper and lower beds and ample social
areas for relaxation on board.
Three identical superior first class motor
yachts. Cabins offer either porthole or
panoramic view, private bathroom and airconditioning. Relax on the sundeck between
excursions.
Please note that short and long itineraries are available on every vessel.
51
Colombia
Bogota Optional Day Tours
Emerald Museum, Monserrate, Zipaquira
Salt Cathedral or Nemocon, Secret Lake
of Guatavita, Fernando Botero Museum,
Fusagasuga, coffee plantations, orchids & more.
A Coffee Lover’s Dream
Capital City: Bogota
Language: Spanish
however you must hold a
valid passport, return ticket or
onward travel arrangements.
Famous For: Coffee,
Cartagena de Indias, Gabriel
Garcia Marquez, salsa,
cumbia & Fernando Botero.
Phrases to learn:
Guayabo - Hangover
Bacano – Cool
Parce - Comrade/Friend
Rumba - Party
Tinto - Coffee
Hi g h li g h ts o f
Co lom b ia
1. Colonial Towns
Walk the quiet, cobblestoned colonial towns, such as
Villa de Leyva, Antioquia, Popayan, Barichara and
Raquira. Enjoy the enchantment of traditional markets
surrounded by locals in traditional costumes, or go for
a hike at the Iguaque National Park.
5
Santa Marta
Barranquilla
Cartagena
Tayrona N. P.
2
2. Cartagena de Indias
This walled colonial city on the Caribbean coast is a
UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural
gem. Beat the heat with an escape to nearby Playa
Blanca.
Pacific3. Bogota
A cosmopolitan metropolis with splendid museums,
Oceanbustling markets and scintillating nightlife. Visit the Salt
Cathedral of Zipaquira, the mesmerising underground
mine tunnels.
4. Coffee Triangle
V E N E ZUE L A
Bucaramanga
1
Medellin
Manizales
Coffee
Triangle
Pereira
Armenia
A region of picturesque towns nestled amongst verdant
green hills and acres of coffee. Sample a freshly
roasted ‘tinto’ and overnight at historical haciendas.
Bogota
Popayan
Nukak Tunahi N. P.
Nuka
San Agustin
Visit the palm fringed beaches of Tayrona National
Park, hike to the spectacular ruins of The Lost City and
enjoy Colombian cuisine in the cosmopolitan city of
Santa Marta.
buque N. P.
Chiribuquete
BRAZIL
E C UA D O R
Amazon
P E RU
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3
1
Cali
5. Caribbean Coast
52
C O LO M B I A
4
Leticia
Colombia
Colombia was a complete surprise, by the end
I didn’t want to leave! My favourite was the
Coffee area, learning the whole process of
coffee making and getting to sample every type.
Andrea P, December 2012
BEST OF COLOMBIA
COLOMBIA AT A GLANCE
11 Days/ 10 Nights
7 Days/ 6 Nights
Day 1 Bogota
Day 1 Bogota
Arrive in Bogota and transfer to hotel.
Arrive in Bogota and transfer to hotel.
Day 2 Bogota
Day 2 Bogota
Half day city tour of Bogota. Cable ride to
Monserrate lookout for views over the city. B
Day 3 Villa de Leyva
Visit the Salt Cathedral, built underground
in a salt mine. Continue to colonial Villa de
Leyva for lunch & overnight. BL
Day 4 Villa de Leyva/ Bogota
Return to Bogota via Raquira, renowned as
having the best pottery in Colombia. B
Day 5 Bogota/ Pereira
Flight to Pereira. B
Day 6 Pereira/ Salento
City tour of Filandia; continue to Cocora Valley
Natural Reserve for trekking or horseback
riding. After lunch, transfer to Salento, the
oldest town in the region, and visit a traditional
handcraft factory. BL
Day 7 Salento/Manizales
Transfer to Hacienda Venecia. Learn about
the traditional production of Colombian
Coffee. After lunch, visit the Botanical Garden
and Butterfly House. BL
Day 8 Manizales/ Cartagena
Fly to Cartagena. B
Half day city tour, visit La Candelaria,
Capilla del Sagrario, Gold Museum and the
Botero Museum. Cable ride to the sanctuary
of Monserrate outlook for views of the city
and the Andes mountain range. B
Day 3 Cartagena
Flight to Cartagena. B
Day 4 Cartagena
City tour of Cartagena de Indias, visit the
colonial district, Parque Bolivar, Museo del
Oro, the Palace of the Inquisition, Santo
Domingo church, the Ramparts and the
Museo de Las Fortificaciones. B
Day 5 Cartagena
Free day to explore Cartagena on your
own. Optional boat trip to Rosario Islands,
one of the most important coral reefs of the
Colombian Caribbean coast. Opportunity to
swim and snorkel. B
Day 6 Cartagena
Day at leisure. Enjoy this city of romance,
stroll through cobbled alleys, where enormous
balconies shrouded in bougainvillea cast their
shadows across leafy colonial plazas. B
Day 7 Cartagena
Day 9 Cartagena
Half day walking tour of the Old City centre. B
Depart Cartagena. Why not continue your
trip to the Caribbean, or fly to Panama City
and visit the famous Panama Canal? B
Salt Cathedral
Day 10 Cartagena
Day at leisure. Afternoon sunset tour of the
San Felipe fortress. Twilight walking tour and
dinner in the Old City. BD
ARAGUA
Day 11 Cartagena
Depart Cartagena. Why not continue your
trip in Colombia, or move on to Ecuador or
Panama?
Cartagena
Cartagena
AMA
VE NE ZUE L A
VENEZUELA
C OL OMBI A
Villa de
Leyva
Manizales Raquira
Pereira
Filandia Salento Bogota
Picking
coffee beans
Bogota
COLOMBIA
We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date prices on our
ECUADOR
website. Please feel free to contact
us to discuss your travel plans. B R A Z I L
PERÚ
53
Venezuela
Secret Wonder
Angel Falls
BEST OF VENEZUELA
11 Days/ 10 Nights
Day 1 Caracas/ Maturin
Arrive Caracas and connect to Maturin;
transfer to a ranch.
Day 2 Maturin/ Orinoco Delta
Boat to the Orinoco Delta for afternoon tours
with native guide. BLD
Highlights of
Venezuela
1. Merida
Great opportunities for outdoor adventurers:
trekking, mountain biking, white-water rafting
and paragliding is at one’s fingertips.
2. Angel Falls
Day 3 Orinoco Delta/ Ciudad Bolivar
With a drop of nearly 1km, the world’s
highest waterfall is rivalled only by its
spectacular surroundings.
Day 4 Ciudad Bolivar/ Canaima
3. Orinoco Delta
Fly to Canaima and then boat to the
spectacular Angel Falls. Overnight at rustic
camp. BLD
This vast river delta offers fantastic wildlife
viewing opportunities. Explore the labyrinthine
waterways with native Warao Indian guides.
Day 5 Cainama National Park
4. Los Roques
Morning jungle walk. Transfer to Ciudad
Bolivar. BL
Full day touring the park including Sapo Falls
and Canaima Lagoon. BLD
Day 6 Puerto Ordaz/ Merida
This Caribbean archipelago offers powderwhite sand beaches and crystal-clear,
turquoise waters.
Fly to Merida. Transfer to your hotel in this
Andean town. B
Capital City: Caracas
Day 7 Merida
Language: Spanish
City tour and visit to Jaji village. B
Day 8 Merida/ Los Frailes
Full day tour of the Paramo; drive over the
Pico El Aguila pass (4,118m). BL
Day 9 Los Frailes/ Barinas
Drive to Barinas for a photography safari of
the Venezuelan plains. BLD
Day 10 Los Llanos
Full day tour with plenty of chances to
observe wildlife. BLD
Day 11 Barinas/ Caracas
however hold a valid
passport & a return ticket on
arrival.
Famous For: Hugo Chavez,
highest amount of Miss
Universe winners & the
highest waterfall in the world,
Angel Falls.
Fly to Caracas. B
Why not extend your trip to Los Roques?
Caribbean Sea
Los Roques
Coro
Maracaibo
Barinas
Merida
Los
1 Llanos
4
Valencia
Caracas
VE NE Z U E L A
Rio Orinoco
CO L O M BI A
mazon
Am
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E C UA DO R
Guyana, Suriname &
French Guiana
THE BEST OF THREE GUIANAS
Highlights of The
Guianas
13 Days/ 12 Nights
Day 1 Georgetown, Guyana
5. Kaieteur Falls, Guyana
Arrival transfer to your hotel. D
Board a Cessna and take a flight over one of
the world’s most dramatic single drop falls.
Pristine rainforest surrounds the 226m falls.
Day 2 Georgetown
Free day. Optional tour Kaieteur Falls. BD
6. Rupununi Savannas, Guyana
Day 3 Georgetown/ Annai Village
7. Paramaribo, Suriname
Day 4 Annai Village/ Surama Village
Africa-like plains scattered with Amerindian
villages and a diversity of wildlife.
Fly to Annai; overnight in a lodge in the vast
Rupununi savannah. BLD
The UNESCO World Heritage listed capital
of Suriname is an exceptional example of
European architecture fused with indigenous
South American influences.
Travel to Surama. Enjoy a night walk through
the forest. BLD
Kaieteur Falls
Day 5 Surama Village
Morning climb Surama Mountain; this
afternoon paddle the Burro Burro River. BLD
8. Pristine Wilderness
All three of the Guianas offer unrivalled
wildlife viewing and off-the-beaten track
jungle adventures. Guyana has one of the
largest unspoiled rainforests in South America.
Day 6 Surama Village/ Georgetown
Explore the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway. Fly
to Georgetown. BLD
Day 7 Georgetown/ Paramaribo
Morning city tour. Fly to Paramaribo. B
Often overlooked, these
rarely travelled gems are
one of the most culturally &
biologically diverse regions in
the continent. These countries’
intriguing populations have
descended from African
slaves, indigenous people and
Indian immigrants combined
with French, British and Dutch
colonialism. The result is a
cultural mixture that has
greatly influenced their art,
music, cuisine & daily life.
Day 8 Paramaribo
Commewijne River tour with a visit to a cacao
plantation. BLD
Day 9 Paramaribo
Visit the historic Jewish settlement of
Jodensavanne and Colakreek, a park in the
savannah area. BLD
Day 10 Kourou, French Guiana
City tour of St Laurent; continue to Kourou. BLD
Day 11 Kourou
Full day catamaran tour to Iles du Salut, St
Joseph and Royale. BL
Day 12 Kourou/ Cayenne
Visit the European Space Centre; continue to
Cayenne for a city tour. BLD
Day 13 Cayenne
Depart Cayenne. B
Maturin 3
Orinoco Delta
Puerto Ordaz
Ciudad Bolivar
5
2
Kaieteur
Falls
Mt.
Roraima
Angel
Falls
Canaima
7
Georgetown
Paramaribo
Linden
Jodensavanne
St. Laurent
Surama
8
Annai
SURINAME
GUYANA
8
Iles du Salut
Kourou
Cayenne
FRENCH
GUIANA
6
B RA Z I L
55
Antarctica
All Antarctic itineraries are to be used as
a guide only and are subject to change to
take best advantage of local weather, ice
conditions and opportunities to view wildlife.
Land of Extremes
Paradise Harbour
Antarctica, one of the last
wildernesses, is an ecological
wonder that bewitches
explorers, scientists and
voyagers alike. Most cruises
to the Antarctic Peninsula
depart from Ushuaia,
Argentina.
Season:
From November to March
What to expect:
Awe-inspiring landscapes,
magnificent icebergs, &
unique wild life experiences.
Don’t forget: binoculars,
sunglasses, trusty thermals &
a good camera!
Pacific
Ocean
Antarctica
Highlights
Ushuaia
This bustling port town at the bottom tip of South
America is the departure point for most Antarctic
cruises.
Antarctic Peninsula
The continent’s northernmost point is just 1,000km
from Tierra del Fuego. The pristine coastline, majestic
icebergs and remote wilderness of the peninsula
form the quintessential Antarctic experience.
Falkland Islands
A remote and beautiful group of islands, with a
temperate climate, unbelievably rich in wildlife and
very welcoming people. Explore the quaint British
town of Port Stanley.
Mt. Fitz Roy
Los Glaciares
National Park
El Calafate
Perito
Moreno Glacier
Torres del Paine
National Park
Puerto Natales
Punta Arenas
Atlantic
Ocean
Ushuaia
Cape Horn
South Shetland
Islands
South Georgia
The “Galapagos of the Poles” boasts over 30
species of birds (including many types of penguins)
and one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth.
Antarctic Circle
Lemaire Channel
Explore the less frequently visited sites south of the
Antarctic Circle and experience the midnight sun.
Antarctic Circle
56
Falkland
Islands
South Georgia
Island
Elephant
Island
King George
Island
Antarctica
It’s the best and most exciting trip I have ever
been on. The landscapes and wildlife are
incredible. I will make sure it will not be “a once
in a life time trip”. I have to go back.
- Lucasz D, March 2012
Below we feature our most popular cruises, with the most frequent departures. You can
choose one of them for your Antarctica trip, or contact us for more itineraries.
CLASSIC ANTARCTIC
Day 1 Ushuaia
Embark. Sail along the Beagle Channel and
Mackinlay Pass. D
Days 2 & 3 Drake Passage
Cross the Antarctic Convergence. BLD
Days 4 - 8 South Shetland Islands &
Antarctic Peninsula
Spectacular wildlife viewing is a highlight of
the South Shetlands; the majestic icebergs
and the pristine wilderness of the Antarctic
Peninsula will enthrall. Enjoy at least two
landings per day - weather permitting. BLD
ANTARCTIC FLY/ CRUISE
Day 1 Punta Arenas
Overnight in Punta Arenas. D
Day 2 King George Island
Fly to King George Island where you will
board a Zodiac to embark your expedition
vessel. BLD
Days 3 – 6 Antarctic Peninsula
Discover the flora and fauna on the Antarctic
Peninsula with daily Zodiac explorations. BLD
Day 7 King George Island
Days 9 & 10 Drake Passage
Return to King George Island and bid
farewell to Antarctica before boarding the
flight back to Punta Arenas, Chile. B
Day 11 Ushuaia
Why not extend your trip to Paine National
Park?
Leave Antarctica and head north across the
Drake Passage. BLD
Disembark Ushuaia; ask us about extension
options. B
57
Antarctica
I am advising everyone that no matter how
good my photos of Antarctica are, I cannot do
it justice – Antarctica has to be experienced.
Being on a small ship was a definite advantage.
Betty & Garry, February 2013
PLANCIUS
AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV
OCEAN NOVA
Accommodates 116 passengers in 53 cabins
with private facilities. The vessel offers a
restaurant/lecture room and a spacious
observation lounge and bar with a full
panoramic view. It has large open deck
spaces, with full walk-around possibilities,
giving excellent opportunities to enjoy the
scenery and wildlife. She is furthermore
equipped with 10 zodiacs, and 2 gangways
on the starboard side, guaranteeing a swift
zodiac operation.
This ship was designed for polar research
and with extensive upgrades is now modern,
comfortable, very spacious and ideal for
expedition cruising.
A modern and comfortable vessel, her
ice-strengthened hull is ideally suited for
expedition travel in Antarctica.
The Plancius is comfortable and nicely
decorated, but is not a luxury vessel. Our
voyages in the Antarctic regions are and will
still be primarily defined by an exploratory
educational travel program, spending as
much time ashore as possible.
From small group sessions to briefings for all
passengers, we have public spaces onboard
the ship ideally suited for each and every
need. A separate bar and lounge located on
deck 6 with expansive 180 degree views, as
well as a library provide ideal places to sit
and relax or catch up on some reading.
Cruises include activities such as snow shoeing,
sea kayaking, back country skiing and hiking
- subject to weather.
This program includes return flights from
Punta Arenas to Antarctica and cruising the
peninsula on board the Ocean Nova vessel.
The ship has capacity for 68 passengers
accommodated in comfortable outside cabins,
all with private facilities, including dedicated
single, twin and triple cabins. In addition to
a glass-enclosed observation lounge and
presentation room, a spacious dining room,
a bar, a library and an infirmary. The ship
has Zodiac boats that are well suited for
disembarking and wildlife watching.
M/V ORTELIUS
AKADEMIK IOFFE
THE USHUAIA
This ice strengthened vessel is ideal for
exploring remote locations, manoeuvring
through pack ice, bird watching and
Helicopter landings.
Built in 1989, this vessel was designed for
polar research originally. Accommodates up
to 98 passengers in its modern, comfortable
and very spacious rooms.
Includes snow shoeing, sea kayaking, back
country skiing and hiking - subject to weather.
The ice-strengthened polar vessel Ushuaia
is very well appointed and provides ample
deck space and an open bridge policy. The
full complement of inflatable landing craft
ensures superb landings and wildlife viewing
opportunities on the otherwise inaccessible
coastline.
Accommodating 106 passengers with lots of
open-deck spaces. It is manned by 20 highly
experienced international nautical crew, 19
international hotel crew and 6 expedition
staff
Our voyages are primarily developed to
offer our passengers a quality exploratory
wildlife program, trying to spend as much
time ashore as possible.
Imagine finishing a delicious dinner on-board
our expedition vessel and then jumping
into the Zodiacs for a run ashore with your
sleeping bag and bivvy sac. What’s this? Your
opportunity to camp in Antarctica!
The Ushuaia has been refurbished to
accommodate a maximum of 84 passengers
in 41 comfortable twin cabins and suites.
Prices and Inclusions:
We offer cruises to cater for a wide range of budgets. Each vessel featured above offers different itineraries to suit different needs. Every
vessel also provides different adventure options. You can find up-to-date prices, departure dates, detailed itineraries and more options in our
58
website. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your travel plans.
Fortuna Bay, South Georgia Island
59
Special Interest Tours
Whatever Your Passion May Be!
If you would like to combine a particular interest with travel to Latin America, ask our expert consultants about our wonderful
Special Interest Tours. Whether you are travelling by yourself, with a partner, a group of friends, family or colleagues, we can
design your dream holiday just for you.
COMMUNITY PROJECTS
BIRDWATCHING
ARCHAEOLOGY
Visit some of our Community Projects partners
and participate in one of their projectsincluding construction and agricultural work,
teaching English, micro-finance planning for
small businesses and much more. If you wish to
commit a day or a month of your time, contact
Contours Travel to find a suitable project for
you.
South America boasts some of the world’s
best bird-watching; Ecuador alone contains
over 1,600 species in an area about the
size of Victoria. The Tropical Andes, Atlantic
Rainforest and Amazon Basin are home to
almost one quarter of the world’s bird species.
It’s no wonder that birders all over the world
call South America ‘the Bird Continent’.
There is much more to South American history
than the Incan Empire- from the San Agustin
and Tairona Indians in Colombia, to the
mysterious Rapa Nui of Easter Island. Peru
alone contains enough archaeological wealth
to dazzle historians- vestiges of ancient sites
and cities of the Chimu, Chachapoyan, Moche
and Nazca cultures still remain.
TREKKING & ADVENTURE
AGRICULTURE
TRAIN TOURS
Adventurous spirits should look no further than
South America- trek Patagonia, hike the Inca
Trail or Choquequirao, kayak Lake Titicaca,
trek the Cordillera Blanca or bike the
Atacama Desert. Whether you’re a first time
hiker or a serious climber, this great continent
has something for you.
Interested in agricultural practices? South
America offers spectacular scenery and vibrant
culture combined with miles of fertile soil,
making it one of the most productive continents
in the world. Tours of Argentine cattle ranches,
Colombian organic coffee cooperatives and
Ecuadorian rose plantations are amongst the
most popular options.
South America has some of the world’s most
iconic train journeys- the Hiram Bingham
to Machu Picchu, End of the World train in
Tierra del Fuego, the Andean Explorer across
the Peruvian highlands and the Devil’s Nose in
Ecuador. A must for train enthusiasts!
SPANISH LESSONS
SELF-DRIVE HOLIDAYS
DANCING & MUSIC
Learn some Spanish and immerse yourself in
the local culture! Just a few classes can have
you on your way to meeting local people and
enjoying a real cultural exchange. Popular
places for language courses include Buenos
Aires, Quito, Cuzco and Guatemala.
Hit the road in Argentina’s northwest, explore
the scenic loop around the Andean Lakes
or drive between Chilean and Argentinian
wineries. Design your own itinerary or let us
guide you in your travels, exploring at your
own pace.
Dance your way through South America!
Learn to tango in Buenos Aires or join Rio’s
Carnival Samba Parade. Head to the ‘World
Capital of Salsa’ in Cali, Colombia or learn a
different style in Cuba.
SPORTING EVENTS
PHOTOGRAPHY & PAINTING
WILDLIFE
Whether it’s rugby or polo in Argentina, or
‘the beautiful game’ just about anywhere,
sporting enthusiasts have plenty to cheer
about in South America.
If photography or painting is your passion,
South America is the place to travel to.
Amateurs and professionals alike will benefit
from dramatic landscapes, colourful local
customs and unique wildlife. Keep an eye out
for our special fixed departures where you’ll
receive expert advice from photographic
guides.
Some of the world’s weirdest and most
wonderful animals live in South America:
Giant ant-eater, Capybaras, Spectacled
bears, sloth, Ocelot, Marine iguanas, Pink
dolphins and much more. The Amazon Basin,
Pantanal, Peninsula Valdes, the Galapagos
Islands and Antarctica all offer fabulous
wildlife spotting opportunities.
ORCHIDS & BROMELIADS
WINE AND DINE & COOKING CLASSES
YOU DECIDE, WE PROVIDE
Orchids are renowned for the structural
variation in their flowers and some of the
most interesting species are to be found in
South America. The Monkey-Face orchid is just
one of over 4,000 species found in Ecuador.
Bromeliads are endemic to the Americas;
diverse species include the pineapple. Look
out for bromeliad flowers growing even on
telephone wires!
From luxury wine tours of the Chilean and
Argentine wine regions, to traditional Andean
cooking classes in the highlands, South
America has something for every taste. A visit
to local markets to learn about local produce
is always a highlight.
If there is any other interest or passion of yours
that we have left out and you would like to
include it on your next trip, please contact us.
Remember there are many ways to travel,
and we will make sure we design your dream
holiday for you.
Look out for the World Cup 2014 and 2016
Olympic Games- both to be held in Brazil.
60
Special Interest Tours
61
Solo Travellers
Love exploring new destinations on your own?
Lake Titicaca
BEST OF SOUTH AMERICA
19 Days/ 18 Nights
Arrival transfer to your hotel.
The day is at leisure. B
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Lima.
At arrival, transfer to your hotel. Afternoon
tour of Lima, including the most important
architectural icons of the city, such as the Main
Square, Government Palace, the Cathedral
and the Archbishop’s Palace. Continue to the
San Francisco Convent, an architectonic jewel
dating back to the 16th century. The tour
continues to Miraflores and the Park of Love
to enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean. B
Day 4 Rio de Janeiro/ Foz de Iguaçu
Day 13 Cuzco
Morning sightseeing tour of Rio de Janeiro.
Visit Corcovado´s mountain and one of the
most famous postcards of Rio de Janeiro, the
statue of the Christ Redeemer. Return by bus
to the hotel. L
Transfer to the airport. Upon arrival, transfer
to the hotel. B
Day 5 Foz de Iguaçu
Full day tour of the Brazilian side of the falls.
Visit the National Park, learn about the local
ecosystem, walk through the park and enjoy
astonishing views of the waterfalls. B
Day 6 Iguazu Falls/ Buenos Aires
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos
Aires. At arrival, transfer to your hotel. B
Day 7 Buenos Aires
Afternoon tour highlighting the city’s major
neighborhoods and attractions. See the Plaza
de Mayo, Casa Rosada and the Cathedral.
Drive through the charming streets of San
Telmo and La Boca, famous for its multicolour
tin houses. Later, visit the Recoleta Cemetery
and Palermo. B
Day 8 Buenos Aires
The day is at leisure. B
Day 9 Buenos Aires/ Santiago
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Santiago.
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. B
Day 10 Santiago
Sacsayhuaman Ruins
Day 12 Santiago/ Lima
Morning tour of Santiago including the Barrio
Universitario, La Moneda government palace,
the Main Square and Parque Forestal. End
the tour visiting the bohemian Bellavista
neighborhood. Return to the hotel. B
Day 11 Santiago
The day is at leisure for own activities. B
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Cuzco.
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Afternoon
city tour, visiting the Santo Domingo Convent,
Main Square, Sacsayhuaman Fortress, the
archaeological sites of Qenko, Puca-Pucara
and Tambomachay. B
Day 14 Cuzco
Day 15 Machu Picchu
Today, visit one of the most important
archaeological centres of the world- Machu
Picchu. Begin travelling by train with amazing
views of the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, take
a bus to the citadel. A tour guide will take you
through the history around this mysterious and
charming place. After the guided tour, free
time to explore on your own. BL
Day 16 Cuzco/Quito
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Lima.
Connect with your flight to Quito. At arrival,
transfer to your hotel. B
Day 17 Quito
Morning tour to the Middle of the World
Museum. Stand on latitude 0°0´0´´ and learn
about the Andean Cosmovision, culture and
traditions. After this visit, enjoy of a wonderful
tour through the streets and main squares of
Quito Historical Centre. A visit to the Church
and Convent of Santo Domingo is part of this
visit. B
Day 18 Quito
Day 19 Quito
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B
Please check our website for set departure dates.
62
Solo Travellers
Joining a small group is a great way for solo
travellers to meet like-minded people and
keep costs down. Ask Contours Travel about
adding pre or post arrangements to these
tours.
TRIANGLE OF THE
ALTIPLANIC DESERTS
BEST OF PATAGONIA
15 Days/ 14 Nights
11 Days/ 10 Nights
Day 1 Buenos Aires
Arrival transfer to your hotel. Afternoon city
tour including dinner and Tango Show. D
Day 2 Buenos Aires/Salta
Fly to Salta. Afternoon city tour including the
MAAM Museum. B
Day 3 Salta/Cafayate
Depart to Cafayate with sightseeing stops
at Calchaqui Valley: Cachi, Route 40 and
Quebrada de las Flechas. B
Day 4 Cafayate/Salta
Morning tour of Cafayate including a winery.
Depart towards Salta visiting Cafayate´s
Gorge with its strange rock formations. B
Day 5 Salta/San Antonio de los Cobres
Depart towards Bull river Gorge passing Santa
Rosa de Tastil Ruins, a pre-Inca settlement.
Continue towards Polvorilla Viaduct, an
engineering masterpiece designed for the
Train to the Clouds. (Option to travel by Train
to the Clouds, April to December). B
Day 6 San Antonio de los Cobres/ San
Pedro de Atacama
Depart towards Salinas Grandes. Cross the
Chilean border to San Pedro de Atacama. B
Tour of the Salar de Atacama, to see the
Chaxa lagoon inhabited by flamingos. B
Day 1 Buenos Aires
Arrival transfer to your hotel. Afternoon tour
highlighting the city’s major neighborhoods
and attractions. See the Plaza de Mayo, Casa
Rosada and the Cathedral. Drive through the
charming streets of San Telmo and La Boca,
famous for its multicolour tin houses. Later, visit
the Recoleta Cemetery and Palermo.
Day 2 Buenos Aires
Day at leisure. At night, transfer to El
Querandi for dinner and Tango Show. BD
Day 3 Buenos Aires / Puerto Madryn
Fly to Trelew; transfer to Punta Tombo Fauna
Reserve, the largest Magellan penguin colony
in the continent. (Alternative touring from
Mid-April to Mid-September) B
Day 4 Puerto Madryn
Full day tour of Peninsula Valdes. B
Day 5 Puerto Madryn / Ushuaia
Fly to Ushuaia, transfer to hotel. B
Day 6 Ushuaia
Half day tour Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Afternoon catamaran tour of the Beagle
Channel. B
Day 7 Ushuaia / El Calafate
Fly to El Calafate; transfer to hotel. B
Early tour of the Tatio Geysers, a geothermal
field in the Andes. Visit the Valley of the Moon
and see the sunset over the Andes from the
top of a giant sand dune. B
Day 8 El Calafate
Day 9 San Pedro de Atacama/Villa Mar
Depart for a tour of Perito Moreno Glacier, a
truly amazing sight. Ask about optional minitrekking or boat trips. B
Depart to Bolivia, visiting Malku Cave along
a magical landscape including Laguna Verde,
Valley of Dali, the Geysers Sol de Manana
and Laguna Colorada. B
Day 10 Villa Mar/Colchani
Depart to Colchani. Visit the Incahuasi´s Island
for lunch. Afternoon arrival at your hotel, made
out of salt. Night walk to admire the sky. B
Day 11 Colchani/Tupiza
Visit Tupiza, the old mining centre of Atocha. B
Atacama Desert
Day at leisure. Optional navigation to
Estancia Cristina and Upsala Glacier. B
Day 9 El Calafate
Day 10 El Calafate / Buenos Aires
Fly to Buenos Aires; transfer to hotel. B
Day 11 Buenos Aires
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight
or ask us about extending your trip to Iguazu
Falls. B
Day 12 Tupiza/Iruya
Transfer to Argentina. After endless
switchbacks we reach Iruya, known as the
“hanging village in the mountain”. B
Day 13 Iruya/Tilcara
Visit Humahuaca Gorge, including the typical
villages of Humahuaca, Uquia, Maimara. B
Day 14 Tilcara/Buenos Aires
Visit Purmamarca and its handcraft fair. Return
to Salta for a flight to Buenos Aires. Transfer
to your hotel. B
Day 15 Buenos Aires
Transfer to the airport for your onwards flight. B
63
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RIO’S SPORTING FEVER
SLEEP IN THE CANOPY
Inkaterra’s Canopy
Treehouse offers adventure
& luxury. Sleep 30m above
the forest floor in your
own private bungalow,
accessible via a 340m
hanging bridge, & enjoy a
unique vantage point of
the Peruvian Amazon.
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Sports lovers around the world
could not find a better place to
be than Rio de Janeiro over the
next few years. In 2014 Rio hosts
the FIFA World Cup; and in 2016
Rio will host the Olympic Games.
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Perito Moreno Glacier is
one of Patagonia’s most
spectacular natural attractions.
The ultimate way to experience
the glacier is with a trek
along its surface, exploring
huge moulins, crevasses and
caves as your guide leads you
across the huge ice field.
64
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Tailor Made, Special Interest
& Group Tours
Tailor Made Tours
The many travel ideas, suggested itineraries and products featured in this brochure are a small reflection of the myriad possible holiday
combinations you can choose from.
We can design your dream holiday to suit your tastes and interests. Please call our experts to start planning your trip.
Featured below are some examples of our past clients’ creative itineraries.
97 Days, by Mr & Mrs F
Otavalo
Quito
E C UA D OR
From L.A.
Amazon Cruise
Iquitos
Salvador
L. Titicaca
Otavalo
Quito
La Paz
Iguazu
Salta Falls
PERU
Paraty
Posada
A RG ENTI NA
CHILE
Buenos
Aires
Santiago
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Bariloche
Lakes
District
40 Days, Mr & Mrs L
Calafate
Punta
Arenas
Iguazu Falls
Atacama
Salta
Santiago
Paine N.P.
Machu Picchu BRAZIL
Cuzco
Lima
L. Titicaca
Nazca
La Paz
Puno
BOLIVIA
Pacific
Ocean
Curitiba
Mendoza
ECUADOR
Galapagos Is.
Rio de
Janeiro
CHI LE
Habana
Ushuaia
Trinidad
CUBA
SURINAME
COLOMBIA
85 Days, by Mr & Mrs
H
Montego Bay
Ocho Rios
FRENCH GUIANA
JAMAICA
MÉXICO
Galapagos
Otavalo
ECUADOR
Is.
Quito
Tikal
Flores
Devil’s Nose
EL
SALVADOR
Machu
Picchu
Cuzco
Lima
Lake Titicaca
Puno
Arequipa
La Paz
Pacific
Ocean
B OLIVIA
San Pedro
de Atacama
Santiago
Mendoza
Calafate
Paine N.P.
Punta Arenas
Chalten
Arenal Vol.
San Jose
Tortuguero N.P.
PANAMA
COLOMBIA
30 Days, Mr T
Buenos
Aires
Caracas
Barinas
Atlantic
Ocean
Merida
Ciudad
Bolivar
Ciudad
Guayana
VENEZUELA
COLOMBIA
Angel Falls
Bogota
Ushuaia
San Blas
Islands
Panama City
Cartagena
Bariloche
Lakes
District
NICARAGUA
COSTA RICA
ARGE NTINA
Puerto
Montt
Caribbean
Sea
Chichicastenango
HONDURAS
Lake Atitlan
Antigua Guatemala
City
BRAZIL
C HILE
BELIZE
GUATEMALA
PERU
Pacific
Ocean
Varadero
Gulf of
Mexico
GUYANA
VENEZUELA
Guayaquil
Atlantic
Ocean
San Jose COSTA RICA
B OLIVIA
Puerto Montt
Habana
CUBA
B R AZI L
San Pedro
de Atacama
Pacific
Ocean
Gulf of
Mexico
México City
Machu
Picchu
Cuzco
Puno
MÉXICO
Manaus
Tabatinga
Chiclayo P E RU
Trujillo
Lima
60 Days, by Mr & Mrs G
Kaieteur
Falls
Georgetown
Paramaribo
Devil’s Is
Cayenne
SURINAME
Karanambu
Lodge
GUYANA
FRENCH
GUIANA
65
AGUA PURA
Thanks to your collaboration, more children in Peru will now be able to
drink clean water.
Contours Travel is committed to give a helping hand to those in
need. That is why we have joined forces with Rotary Club of North
Melbourne and Rotary Club of Cuzco and created Project Agua
Pura. It is through Agua Pura that we provide schools in remote
villages in the Sacred Valley and Cuzco, Peru, with water filters that
allow children and teachers to drink clean, bacteria-free water.
Agua Pura has already delivered 50 water filters to 5 different
schools. Our aim, though, is to distribute 500 filters. Which is why we
need your help!
For only fifty dollars, you can donate a water filter unit to a Peruvian
school. After your generous contribution the delivery is done via
local NGOs, with whom Contours Travel has ongoing projects, or
if interested, clients can go to the communities and distribute the
Sawyer PointONE™ filters themselves!
66
The All in One Filter uses the Sawyer PointONE™
0.10 Absolute Micron Water Filter attached to a
standard 5 gallon bucket. The "build your own gravity
system" can yield up to 1,000 litres of clean water
per day from any fresh water source. Kit includes:
Sawyer Screw On/Off Filter, 1 bucket adapter, 1
faucet adapter, & 1 filter cleaner. Life Expectancy: 1
Million Gallons Guaranteed.
If you would like to be a part of Agua Pura Project
call 1300 135 391 or email [email protected]
Terms and Conditions
Contract
Contours Travel is a tour operator specialising in the Caribbean Islands and Latin America. We will consult, suggest, design and book your holiday for you. All Services provided by Contours
Travel are sold on these terms and conditions (“Terms”).
Brochure and Website Validity
Information in Contours Travel current brochures (“Brochures”)
and on Contours Travel website (“Website”) is valid from 1st
September 2013 until otherwise changed or notified.
How to Book
For all bookings you must complete a booking application.
Contours Travel reserves the right to accept or reject any
booking application it receives. Within 7 days of submitting
your booking application, you must pay the specified service
fee and deposit. This is necessary to hold your reservation
and secure your booking. A booking is accepted by Contours
Travel once it receives the specified service fee and deposit
and issues you or your travel agent with a confirmation of
acceptance of your booking. If the specified service fee and
deposit are not paid on time, your booking will automatically
lapse and re-booking will involve additional fees. Special
booking procedures and conditions apply for certain
bookings. If special booking procedures and conditions
apply, Contours Travel will notify you accordingly.
Service Fees
For all bookings other than bookings for the Caribbean
Islands and the Bahamas, a service fee of $25 per booking
applies. For bookings for the Caribbean Islands, a service
fee of $30 per booking applies. For bookings for the
Bahamas, a service fee of $50 per booking applies.
Deposits
For all bookings for city stop-over packages, a deposit of
$150 per person per package applies. For all tour bookings,
a deposit of $500 per person per tour applies. For bookings
that include cruises in the Amazon, Galapagos, Fjords or
Antarctica, Amazon lodges, Explora hotels, Inca Trails
and other products, please contact Contours Travel for
respective deposit requirements as these range from 30%
up to 50% of the total booking cost.
Late Booking Fee
For all bookings made 30 days or less prior to the day you
are due to depart from Australia, a late booking fee of $50
per booking will apply.
Due Dates for Payment
Payment of the total booking cost is required 60 days prior
to the day you are due to depart from Australia. If your
booking is made less than 60 days prior to the day you are
due to depart from Australia, payment of the total booking
cost is required upon confirmation of acceptance of your
booking application by Contours Travel. If your booking
is made less than 30 days prior to the day you are due
to depart from Australia, payment of a deposit of 100%
of the total booking cost is required in order to process
your booking. If Contours Travel is unable to secure your
booking it will refund this deposit less its relevant service
fee. Special payment arrangements and conditions apply
for certain bookings. If special payment arrangements and
conditions apply, Contours Travel will notify you accordingly.
Contents
Contours Travel has taken considerable care to make sure
all information in the Brochures and on the Website is correct.
Circumstances beyond the control of Contours Travel may
necessitate change in travel arrangements including but not
limited to changes to itineraries, tours or cruises up to and
after your departure date. Contours Travel cannot be held
responsible for any changes to your travel arrangements
which may occur, Contours Travel reserves the right to adjust
the price of any of your travel arrangements at any time
due to changes including but not limited to airfare and land
arrangement price increases, devaluation, fuel surcharges or
exchange rates. Before you book, please check with your
travel agent or Contours Travel if there are any alterations to
the travel arrangements you have selected.
Descriptions, Maps & Photographs
Descriptions featured in the Brochures or on the Website
are based on current guides and are subject to change at
any time. Maps and photographs are included for general
information and may not necessarily reflect actual routings,
locations or services. Hotel room photographs may not be
specific to the actual room occupied.
Prices
Prices are shown on the price insert to the Brochures and
the price tab on the Website. Updated prices are available
on the Website. Seasonal prices and any “Specials” will be
available on the Website. Prices shown in the Brochures
and on the Website are indicative only. Prices are based
on costs and exchange rates at 1st September 2013.
Our costs include but are not limited to costs of research,
consultation and communication with travel agents and
overseas suppliers, marketing and advertising. All prices
are per person and expressed in Australian Dollars, unless
stated otherwise. All prices are subject to change without
notice up to the day of departure due to factors including
but not limited to currency fluctuation, government taxes,
charges and levies. Any airfares quoted or confirmed are
subject to change without notice prior to the ticket being
written. Please note security and airport taxes around the
world change daily. Prices shown in the Brochures and on
the Website do not include costs that are not a compulsory
part of the relevant tour, such costs may include but not
be limited to the following: Visas, insurance, excess
baggage, meals not mentioned, vaccinations, beverages,
tips, shipboard gratuities, costs of a personal nature
including but not limited to laundry, telephone calls, cost of
passport and personal services to hotel rooms, emergency
evacuation costs, airport departure taxes, security charges,
other airport taxes, international and domestic airfares.
Amendments
Should you make an amendment to your confirmed booking,
a fee of $50.00 per amendment per country will apply to cover
extra costs including but not limited to administrative costs,
communication costs and any applicable supplier charges.
Cancellation fees may also apply.
Cancellation
If it is necessary to cancel your travel arrangements, the
following fees will apply per person per booking. If travel
arrangements are cancelled more than 60 days before
the due date for departure – the Deposit. If the travel
arrangements are cancelled less than 60 days before the
due date for departure - up to 50% of total booking cost. If the
travel arrangements are cancelled less than 30 days before
the due date for departure - up to 100% of the total booking
cost. Cancellation fees from service providers including
but not limited to airlines, cruise operators, hoteliers,
coach companies, may also apply. Special cancellation
arrangements and conditions apply for certain bookings. If
special cancellation arrangements and conditions apply, you
will be notified by Contours Travel accordingly.
Minimum Stay
For hotel only bookings, Contours Travel requires a
minimum stay of 3 nights. For all hotel bookings less than 3
nights an under-stay fee of $50 applies.
No Show
If you fail to check-in at a designated location or service
as confirmed in your booking, a “no show” fee equal to
100% of the cost of that particular component of your travel
arrangements will be charged.
Refund for Unused Service
Once you have left Australia, Contours Travel will not
refund or compensate you for any service not used by you
due to late arrival, failure of any transportation to operate
as scheduled, early departure or by notice. Contours Travel
does not authorise any overseas suppliers including but
not limited to hotel management and staff to make any
undertakings on our behalf or otherwise in respect of
refunds or other matters.
Airlines
The depiction or recommendation of any domestic and
international airline in the Brochures or on the Website does
not commit the airline to any travel arrangements and the
airline shall not be responsible for statements or literature
relating to the travel arrangements in the Brochure or on
the Website.
CONTOURS TRAVEL
Since 1975
Holiday Variation
If unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of Contours
Travel or suppliers, providers or representatives of Contours
Travel require Contours Travel to make necessary changes to
your travel arrangements, Contours Travel reserves the right
to cancel or reschedule your travel arrangements including but
not limited to departures and itineraries. When it is necessary
to change a hotel, Contours Travel reserves the right to
substitute accommodation of at least a similar standard.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of booking that you have adequate travel
insurance for the full duration of your travel arrangements
in respect of illness, injury, death, loss of baggage, personal
items and deposits, cancellations and curtailment of tours
en route and medical expenses.
Passport, Visa and Vaccination
It is mandatory that you familiarise yourself with any visa and
health requirements that may be applicable in the countries
you are visiting. You are responsible for all entry and exit
health requirements and any other documents required
by any law, regulation, order, demand or requirement of a
country visited or transited. Please note that passport and
visa requirements are not the responsibility of Contours
Travel. Contours Travel cannot be held liable for any loss
or expense due to your failure to comply with the above.
Warning
You must check with your doctor whether you are fit to
travel to your selected destination. If you are travelling to
certain South American cities situated at high altitudes,
you must check with your doctor that you are fit to travel
to these altitudes.
Limitations and Liability
Contours Travel, its employees and agents act only as
booking agents and will not be responsible and exclude
liability for injury, death, damage, loss or claims arising
directly or indirectly from acts or omissions by suppliers or
other service providers or from accidents, loss or damage
to person or property, delays, changes in schedules,
transport failures, strikes, wars, uprisings, acts of God or
other causes over which Contours Travel, its employees
and agents have no control. The Trade Practices Act 1974
(Cth) and corresponding legislation in other jurisdictions
in certain circumstances imply mandatory conditions and
warranties into agreements (“Consumer Warranties”).
This clause does not exclude or limit the application of
any Consumer Warranties or other warranties where to
do so would contravene the law of the relevant jurisdiction
or cause any part of this clause to be void. You hereby
waive and Contours Travel hereby disclaims all warranties
whether written or oral, express or implied, including but
not limited to the Consumer Warranties. The liability of
Contours Travel is limited to providing the Services again or
payment of the cost of having the Services supplied again,
the choice of which is at the option of Contours Travel.
Severance
If any provision of these Terms is held to be invalid or in
any way unenforceable, it shall be severed from these
Terms and the remaining provisions shall not in any way
be affected or impaired and these Terms shall be construed
so as to most nearly give effect to the parties intentions at
the time when Contours Travel confirmed its acceptance of
the relevant booking.
Governing Law
All matters in respect of the Services provided by Contours
Travel but not in respect of other things are governed by
the laws of Victoria.
Definitions
In these Terms, the following terms have the following
meaning: (a) “Contours Travel” means Contours Travel
Pty Ltd of 287 Victoria Street, West Melbourne, Victoria
3003, and (b) “Services” means booking and packaging
by Contours Travel of accommodation, transportation, tour
and other services provided by other suppliers.
CONTOURS TRAVEL PTY LTD 287 Victoria Street,
West Melbourne 3003 VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA
Tel: (03) 9328 8488, Fax: (03) 9329 7517, Toll Free: 1300 135 391
Email: [email protected], www.contourstravel.com.au
Licence 30145 ABN 54907026274, Member of the Travel Compensation Fund 67
Collection
The CONTOURS
Small Group Tours of
SOUTH AMERICA
by CONTOURS TRAVEL
MEXICO
CUBA
CENTRAL AMERICA
CARIBBEAN ISLANDS
Your Professional Travel Agent
CONTOURS TRAVEL
PICK UP A COPY OF OUR
OTHER BROCHURES!
CONTOURS TRAVEL PTY LTD
287 Victoria St.
West Melbourne 3003
Victoria, Australia
Tel: (03) 9328 8488
Fax: (03) 9329 7517
Reservations: 1300 135 391
Email: [email protected]
68
CONTOURS TRAVEL
Since 1975
w w w. c o n t o u r s t r a v e l . c o m . a u
Licence 30145 • ABN 54907026274 • Member of the Travel Compensation Fund
Council of Australian Tour Operators
Integrity & Commitment

PDF - Contours Travel

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