Latin America
Transcription
Latin America
First Timer’s Guide toLATIN Latin America - 81 2 AMERICA 180- FirstLATIN Timer’s Guide to Latin America AMERICA a c i r e m A Latin MEXICO COSTA RICA PANAMA “WHAT A VIEW… FOR A MOMENT I FELT COMPLETELY INVINCIBLE, LIKE I COULD CHANGE THE WORLD. THIS IS WHY I WENT TRAVELLING!” BRAZIL PERU BOLIVIA CHILE ARGENTINA Brazil Peru Cuba Think of South America and think of Rio de Janeiro, with its colourful carnival, Copacabana Beach and the amazing statue of Christ that peers over all that lies below. Think of beautiful people and beautiful football, the Amazon jungle, and the magnificent Igazu Falls. Brazil is home to all this and more. Peru fuses countless cultures from all over the world, and from all across time. Lima serves up a multicultural mix of welcoming hospitality, while a trip over to Cuzco to trek the Inca Trail, will give you a big breathtaking glimpse of the past, especially when you set your eyes on the amazing Macchu Picchu. Fabled Cuba remains a solitary outpost of socialist expression against the capitalist might of its not so friendly neighbour North America. You’ll step off the plane into a world that consumerism has left behind. So light yourself up a big fat Cuban cigar and enjoy the multiple pleasures of this Caribbean island. Argentina Mexico And the rest… Possibly the sexiest country you’ll ever come across. The streets of Buenos Aires buzz with beautiful salsa dancers, while the awesome power of the Iguazu Falls will leave you trembling with excitement. Get yourself entangled in the lustful excitement of this remarkable country. The Mexican culture is one of the most distinct on the planet. So down a tequila, don your sombrero and munch down a burrito. The throbbing streets of Mexico City, the awe-inspiring ancient Mayan ruins, and the gorgeous, hot, sandy beaches will keep you more than just a little amused. We aren’t finished there! STA Travel does loads of Latin America. Our amazing trips take in all corners of the continent, including Chile, Bolivia, Uruguay, Ecuador, Guatemala and Belize. If there’s anywhere else you want to get yourself too, then just ask, chances we’ll have it covered. www.statravel.co.uk or call 0871 468 667 0681 call the gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 email:Visit [email protected] call667 the or gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 First Timer’s Guide to Latin America -83 4 LATIN AMERICA 382- FirstLATIN Timer’s Guide to Latin America AMERICA MEXICO trips MonsinteLatinr America YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY WON’T RECOGNISE YOU WHEN YOU RETURN HOME ME FROM THESE WHOPPERS. WITH MASSIVE MOUNTAINS, IMMENSE DESERTS, HUMUNGOUS GOUS WATERFALLS AND VAST CITIES, THESE ARE SOME OF OUR BEST EVER MONSTER TRIPS. PERU BRAZIL BOLIVIA CHILE ARGENTINA SOUTHERN CROSS MAYAN ADVENTURE 45 days, Lima – Rio IN SEARCH OFF IGUASSU IGUASSU 22 days, Cancun – Playa del Carmen fr £1365 fr Merida £520 Cancun 17 days, Buenos Aires - Rio fr £415 Playa del Carmen Chichen Itza BRAZIL PARAGUAY Paraty Rio de Janeiro Ilha Grande Iguassu Falls ARGENTINA PERU Chetumal BRAZIL Machu Picc Picchu cchu cc La Titicaca Lake Lima Pisco co o La Paz Cuzco Colca Canyon Nazca Santa Cruz Arequipa Sucre Potosi BOLIVIA Uyuni Salt Lakes Tikal San Cristobal de las Casas Paraty Caye Caulker San Ignacio Pantanal Bonito PARAGUAY MEXICO Rio de Janeiro Ilha Grande Flores Chichicastenango Panajachel Antigua Day 1: Lima Day 2: Pisco Day 3-4: Nazca Day 5-7: Arequipa, Chivay, Colca Canyon Day 8: Cuzco Day 9: Ollantaytambo Day 10-13: 4 day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu Day 14-16: Cuzco Day 17: Puno Day 18-19: Lake Titicaca Day 20-21: La Paz Day 22: Bus/train to Uyuni Day 23-25: Uyuni, Salt Lakes Day 26-27: Potosi Day 28-29: Sucre Day 30-31: Santa Cruz, Puerto Suarez Day 32-33: Corumba, Pantanal Day 34-38: Bonito, Iguassu Falls Day 39-44: Paraty, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro Day 45: Rio de Janeiro This monster trip gets you all hot and sweaty with excitement by simply just glancing at the route map. Some of the world’s most remarkable places are on this itinerary as you journey from one side of the South American continent to the other by bus, train, boat, 4WD truck and a couple of short flights. Peru, Bolivia and Brazil are all travelled in a life changing 45 days that includes the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni, the wonderful wildlife of the immense Pantanal wetlands and the roaring waters of Iguassu Falls. Arrive on the first day in Lima at anytime, before catching a bus the following afternoon to Pisco, where you may just want to drink one or two of the famous, local cocktails. Nazca comes next on the itinerary, where you’ll have the option to take a flight over the desert to view the mysterious Nazca Lines. On day 5 you’ll travel deep into the Andes to Peru’s second largest city; Arequipa, before travelling the next day to the very deep Colca Canyon, home to the majestic Andean Condor. On day 8 you’ll fly up to Cuzco, where you’ll have the chance to explore this beautiful colonial city and the nearby Inca sites and ruins around Ollantaytambo. Wake up the next morning and take off on an 42km hike on the ancient trail of the Incas. Spectacular mountain scenery surrounds you every day before you eventually arrive very early in the morning at Machu Picchu for what may very well be the best sunrise you will ever witness. 3 days in Cuzco will allow you to catch your breath, where a multitude of exciting options are available including rafting and horseback riding. On day 17 you’ll travel high into the Altiplano region to Puno before you head to Lake Titicaca, where you’ll explore the islands by boat, and stay overnight with a local family in a small village. Enter Bolivia the following day for two nights in the highest capital city in the world, La Paz. On day 22 you’ll travel to Salar de Uyuni, for an amazing 3 days exploring some of the most isolated and dramatic geography in South America by 4WD. Visits to the fascinating Bolivian cities of Potsoi and Sucre occupy the next 4 days before you fly over to the country’s second largest city; Santa Cruz. On day 31 you’ll jump onto an overnight train that will take you over the border into Brazil. Marvel at macaws, Jabiru storks, giant otters and caimans on days 32-33 as you explore the Pantanal wetlands. The crystal clear waters, caves and waterfalls of Bonito come next on the trip, before you cross the vast cattle ranches of Mato Grosso do Sul en route to the Iguassu Falls. Check out this amazing wonder from both the Argentinean and Brazilian sides. Days 39-44 finish off this brilliant trip perfectly as you travel to Paraty and head for Ilha Grande, the island of 100 beaches, before you enter the incomparable Rio de Janeiro for fun, relaxation and lots of emotional goodbyes. Please note: This trip can also be done in reverse. Accommodation: Hotels, buses, camping, homestay, hammocks Meals: All included during Inca Trail, homestay, Uyuni Salt Flats and in the Pantanal Departs: Fri and Tue weekly Group Size: Max 15, Average 10 Local Payment: USD 500. GA SXRM Colonia Buenos Aires Montevideo BELIZE GUATEMALA Iguassu Falls Salto Belize City Palenque Guatemala City Day 1: Cancun Day 2-3: Chichen Itza, Merida Day 4-6: Palenque, The Highlands Day 7-11: Guatemalan Highlands Day 12-13: Flores, Tikal, Guatemala Day 14-15: San Ignacio, Belize Day 16-18: Caye Caulker Day 19-22: Playa del Carmen This fabulous three week pilgrimage will take you through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. You’ll experience the beauty of the highlands, the mystery of the great Mayan sites and the crystalline waters and white sands of the Caribbean. So if lying on a busy Mexican beach ain’t your thing, then go and uncover some of Central America’s real treasures on this fantastic monster trip. After arriving on your first day into Cancun, you’ll leave town the following morning and head to the Mayan pyramids of Chichen Itza, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the ruins, before continuing onwards to the colonial city of Merida. You’ll make the scenic journey to Palenque on day 4. The lush tropical vegetation, waterfalls and abundant wildlife that surround this ancient Mayan site will leave you entranced. As will the rich culture of San Cristobal de las Casas which is the next stop on the itinerary. On day 7 you’ll enter the Guatemalan Highlands for 5 days of discovery around spectacular volcanoes, quaint, villages and luscious countryside. Your time in Guatemala finishes with two days in the magical island town of Flores and a visit to the nearby ruins of Tikal. You’ll spend days 14-15 in Belize’s jungle gem, San Ignacio, where you’ll have the option to go horseback riding, canoeing or caving. And if all that seems a little too active then you’ll love the next three days in Caye Caulker, where even the most up-tight of individuals will chill out and relax. Reggae music emanates from just about every beachside bar and restaurant in this tiny island town. Your adventure ends on a livelier note with some time in the hotspot that is Playa del Carmen. Day 1-2: Buenos Aires Day 3-5: Colonia, Montevideo Day 6-7: Salto Day 8-10: Iguassu Falls Day 11-12: Paraty Day 13-15: Ilha Grande Day 16-17: Rio de Janeiro Connect up two of the world’s sexiest cities in style on this brilliant 17 day monster trip. You’ll follow in the footsteps of Portuguese explorers as you travel from the land of Tango to the home of Samba. The big highlight comes right in the middle of your adventure when you check out the awesome Iguassu Falls, which sits on the border of Argentina and Brazil. Waterfalls don’t get much better than this, as you can see for yourself on an exhilarating boat tour. You should prepare to get a little wet! Try and arrive at a good time in Buenos Aires on your first day, so you can fully max out this stunning city. Exuding European class, you’ll be tempted out onto the vibrant streets by the brilliant restaurants, buzzing bars and beautiful people. Just across the water lies Uruguay, and on day 3 you’ll catch a ferry over to historical Colonia, before travelling onwards to the nation’s capital, Montevideo. The next stop on this amazing adventure is Salto, which is famous for its thermal baths. Enjoy a Spa treatment, or have a blast at the water park. On the evening of day 7 you’ll catch a night bus back into Argentina and all the way up to the Iguassu Falls, where you’ll have three days to explore. Brazil is the next stamp on your passport as you head across to the seaside town of Paraty, which has beautiful colonial architecture to compliment the lovely coastline. Things calm down a little from days 13-15 as you relax on one of the 102 beaches of the Ilha Grande with a cool Caipirinha. Wonderful Rio de Janeiro is your final stop, where iconic names like Copacabana, Ipanema and Cristo Redento live up to all their reputations. Accommodation: Hotels, overnight buses Meals: Not included Departs: Weekly Fri and selected Mon and Sat Group Size: Max 15, Average 10 Local Payment: USD 250. GA JBR Accommodation: Hotels Meals: Not included Departs: Every Sat Group Size: Max 15, Average 10 Local Payment: USD 300. GA CAM www.statravel.co.uk or call 0871 468 667 0681 call the gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 email:Visit [email protected] call667 the or gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 First Timer’s Guide toLATIN Latin America -85 6 AMERICA 584- FirstLATIN Timer’s Guide to Latin America AMERICA MEXICO Big Adventures PERU WE COVER JUST ABOUT THE WHOLE OF LATIN AMERICA, AND WE KNOW ALL THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT. SO WE’VE HAD A LITTLE BRAINSTORM AND PICKED OUT A WHOLE BUNCH OF OUR BEST BIG ADVENTURES. READ ON AMIGO. WONDERS OF BRAZIL ABSOLUTE PERU 15 days, Start & Finish: Rio 21 days, Start & Finish: Lima fr £675 BRAZIL Pantanal Campo Grande Bonito Day 1-2: Rio de Janeiro Day 3-4: Paraty Day 5-8: Iguassu Falls Day 9-10: Bonito Day 11-13: Pantanal Day 14-15: Rio de Janeiro Iguassu falls Sao Paulo Paraty Rio de Janeiro Flying into Rio, and finding yourself still there after two weeks is more than possible. We simply have to disapprove! Brazil brims with possibility and you would be a fool not to get out there and discover more of this fabulous country. This 15 day adventure takes you down the coast to Paraty, and then deep into the interior via the colossal Iguassu Falls. Arrive as early as you can for a couple of free days in Rio. Make sure you check out the fantastic views from the ‘Christ the Redeemer’ statue and Sugar Loaf Mountain. On the third day of your trip you’ll head to the beautiful ‘Costa Verde’ for a couple of nights in Paraty, where the cobblestone streets are yours to explore, as are the islands in the Ilha Grande Bay. On day 5 you’ll leave town early and travel to Sao Paulo, where you’ll board a ‘sleeper’ style night bus to Iguassu Falls. Once there you’ll have plenty of time to check out the Brazilian and Argentinean sides, both of which are as spectacular as each other. You’ll catch another night bus to Bonito and arrive on the morning of day 9. For those who love the great outdoors, this is your time. Some of the many options include snorkelling down the Rio de la Prata, swimming in lagoons or visiting macaw nesting spots. Things become even more jaw dropping from days 11-13 when you’ll explore the immense wetland area known as the Pantanal. At night you’ll sleep on hammocks, in large tents and dream of the Jabiru storks, giant otters, anteaters and caimans that you’ll have possibly encountered that day. On day 14 you’ll catch a flight from Campo Grande back to Rio, where you’ll spend your final night of this amazing adventure. Accommodation: Hotels, camping, night buses Meals: Included in the Pantanal Departs: Every Sat Group Size: Max 15, Average 10 Local Payment: USD 300. GA ZWB Day 1: Lima Day 2: Pisco Day 3-4: Nazca Day 5: Arequipa Day 6-7: Colca Canyon Day 8-10: Puno, Lake Titicaca Day 11-12: Cuzco Day 13-16: 4 day Inca Trail trek Day 17: Cuzco Day 18-20: Amazon Jungle Day 21: Lima BRAZIL BOLIVIA CHILE ARGENTINA fr GALAPAGOS VOYAGE £830 6, 7 or 10 days, Start & Finish: Quito PERU Machu Picchu Cuzco Lima Pisco Nezca Amazon Jungle Colca Canyon Puno Arequipa If you don’t have the time to explore the entire continent, then the best idea is to fully concentrate on one country. And what better country than the birth place of Paddington Bear. If you want your Latin American experience to include the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and a journey into the Amazon Jungle, then empty your piggy bank and get yourself booked onto this fantastic Peruvian adventure. Over three weeks you’ll make a full loop of some of the best bits Peru has to offer. On day 3 you’ll check out the sealions and penguins of the Ballestas Islands, before stopping off for a spot of sandboarding at Huacachina. Days 6 and 7 are spent at the Colca Canyon, where you’ll take a couple of short hikes through one of the deepest canyons in the world. Lake Titicaca comes next, where you’ll take a boat trip around the amazing little islands, before stopping for the night with a local family. Days 13-16 are spent trekking the Inca Trail. Local porters and guides will look after you as you walk at high altitude past fascinating ruins and spectacular scenery, before emerging to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. The last highlight on the itinerary is on day 18, when you fly deep onto the Amazon Jungle, before boarding a motorised canoe that’ll take you right into the rainforest. You’ll go exploring with local guides through this natural wonderland before you fly back to Lima on day 20, where your Peruvian pilgrimage ends. Accommodation: Hotels, jungle lodge, bus, homestay, camping Meals: Included in the homestay, Inca Trail and Amazon Jungle Departs: Every Mon, Sat, Wed & Thu year round. Also Sun (May-Oct) Group Size: Max 15, Average 10 Local Payment: USD 300. GA PHPT fr £720 The Galapagos Islands are so amazing, that some bloke called Charles Darwin went there for a little while, and left with the notion that we all used to be monkeys. Retrace the steps of the man who put evolution on the map as you cruise around this breathtaking part of the world. You’ll cast your disbelieving eyes on a host of weird and wonderful animal species including iguanas, turtles, sealions and Blue footed Boobies. You’ll also have a chance to go for a hike or two over some of the beautiful terrain, just make sure you watch what you step on! Choose between 6, 7 or 10 day trips. Whichever one you pick, you will wish you had a little longer on the awesome Galapagos Islands. 2 nights in Quito Return flights to Galapagos 3, 4 or 7 days in the Galapagos Twin share cabin All meals while in the Galapagos Accommodation: Hotel in Quito, motorised yacht, Meals: Included in the Galapagos Departs: Mon (6 days), Thu (7 days) and Mon & Thu (10 days) Group Size: Max 16 Average 12 Local Payment: USD 300. GA EVO6 AMAZON TO THE ANDES fr 12 days, Start & Finish: Lima £570 You’ll check out the wonders in and around Cuzco, before you head off on the trail of the Incas. This is one of the world’s must-do activities, with ancient ruins, beautiful mountain scenery and 3 nights of camping under the Peruvian stars. On the final day of the hike, climb the steps to Intipunko and watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu, before you tour the famous Inca ruin. On day 9 of this big adventure you’ll fly deep into the lowlands of the Amazon Jungle, where you’ll jump onto a motorised canoe, back into the rainforest that teems with all kinds of crazy creatures. You’ll then fly back to Lima, where your adventure will come to an end. Day 1: Lima Day 2: Cuzco Day 3: Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo Day 4-7: Inca Trail Day 8: Cuzco Day 9-10: Amazon Jungle Day 11-12: Lima Machu Picchu Cuzco Lima Amazon Jungle Accommodation: Hotels, camping, jungle lodge Meals: Included on Inca Trail and in the jungle Departs: Every Sat, Sun, Mon and Wed year round, also on Thu (MayOct) Group Size: Max 16 Average 12 Local Payment: USD 250. GA PAA COSTA RICA ADVENTURE 16 days, Start & Finish: San Jose PERU fr £495 One of the most biologically diverse countries in the world – a true Garden of Eden. Distinctive for its rainforests, rushing rivers, pristine beaches and towering volcanoes, you’ll truly feel off the beaten track on this brilliant 16 day adventure. Some of the remarkable highlights include a boat tour to Tortuguero National Park, a trip through the Rara Avis Rainforest, a horseback riding trip from La Fortuna to Monterverde and a guided visit to Monteverde Cloud Forest Park. GA CRA Day 1: San Jose Day 2-3: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Day 4: Tortuguero National Park Day 5-6: Rara Avis Rainforest Day 7-9: La Fortuna, Arenal Day 10-11: Montevideo Day 12-14: Quepos, Manuel Antonio National Park Day 15-16: San Jose La Fortuana/Arenal Monteverde Tortuguero N.P. Rara Avis COSTA RICA San Jose Limon Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Manuel Antoino Accommodation: Hotels, Multi-share lodge Meals: Included at Rara Avis Departs: Selected Sat and Thu Group Size: Max 15 Average 10 Local Payment: USD 250 www.statravel.co.uk or call 0871 468 667 0681 call the gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 email:Visit [email protected] call667 the or gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 First Timer’s Guide Latin America -87 8 LATINto AMERICA: Brazil 786- FirstLATIN Timer’s Guide to Latin America AMERICA: Brazil Brazil BRAZIL Peru PERU Brasilia Lima Sao Paulo Rio de Janeiro Places to Stay El Misti Hotel, Rio Places to Stay Rio Backpackers, Rio DORM INC B'FAST fr £9 DOUBLE INC B'FAST fr £24 Lancaster Othon, Rio DORM INC B'FAST fr £8 The Point Hostel, Lima DORM INC B'FAST fr £5 Sao Paulo SINGLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £15 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £18 Lima Airport The Point Hostel, Cuzco DORM INC B'FAST fr £7 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £20 SINGLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £27 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £34 DORM INC B'FAST fr £5 All you need from a hostel including free internet access, tourist information and that all-important TV room. It’s perfectly located in the central district of Miraflores. You’ll love the Friday night BBQs on the open-air rooftop. Perfect for those who are just making a quick stop in Lima. Rooms are simple and clean, with phone, TV, hairdryer, mini bar and tea/coffee. Facilities include a 24 hour reception, luggage storage and internet. Party 'till dawn at this lively hostel. The staff are friendly and not short on useful advice. Facilities include free internet access, big TV room and free breakfast until 1pm. The bar has an open fire and some amazing views. STA512 Manhattan Inn, Lima STA511 Hang Gliding Tandem Flight Loki Backpackers, STA510 Things to do This whitewashed mansion is in the bohemian district of Barranco is minutes from the best of Lima's nightlife. Facilities including a very lively pub, cable TV, free internet, laundry, communal kitchen and a spacious garden. Breakfast is included. STA509 Centrally located and posh! Bed down in clean and comfy rooms that feature a private bathroom, air-con, TV, telephone and a fully stocked mini bar. Facilities include room service, luggage storage and laundry. STA503 Enjoy the comfort of a hotel at a great price. Located opposite Copacabana Beach, the large rooms are equipped with air-con, telephone, satellite TV and a private bathroom. The hotel has a great bar and restaurant, and breakfast is included. STA502 Just four blocks from Copacabana Beach, this big three floor house offers a truly Brazilian experience. Extra services include Portuguese and samba lessons! Facilities include internet access, laundry and bar. Breakfast is included. Joamar Hotel, SINGLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £62 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £62 STA501 STA500 This affordable and handy hostel is just a five minute walk from Copacabana Beach. Breakfast and linen are included in the price. The great facilities include a large communal lounge with cable TV, bar, free internet access and private lockers. Cuzco Things to do FR £71 Turn up, strap in and jump off for a breathtaking ride over Rio. Fly over Tijuca National Park, out to the ocean, and land on São Conrado Beach. With expert tuition from your tandem instructor, all you have to do is remember to open your eyes! STA504 Maravilhosa Tour – Full Day RIO CITY STARTER PACK 3 days 2 nights at the Ipanema Hostel Maravilhosa trip Carioca trip One way airport transfer Tandem Paragliding FR £66 This is a perfect little introduction to Rio. Your hostel is located at gorgeous Ipanema Beach, and includes breakfast both mornings. The Maravilhosa tour takes you to the city’s two most beautiful beaches, while the Carioca trip visits Tijuca National Park, Santa Tereza, and the amazing ‘Christ the Redeemer’ statue. STA505 Be a local in Favela – Half Day ILHA GRANDE This unique and fascinating tour from Rio gives you a glimpse of life in one of the largest Favela in South America, Rocinha. Walk the small streets of Rocinha, get in contact with the locals, experience their way of living and visit the Casa de Cultura. STA506 FR £18 4 days, Start & Finish: Rio de Janeiro 3 nights accommodation 4 breakfasts Prainha and Angra dos Reis Return boat trip to Ilha Grande This trip explores the beaches and islands of Rio's `Green Coast'. You’ll check out Prainha, considered to be one of Rio's most beautiful beaches, before heading to Angra dos Reis for a ferry ride to Ilha Grande, a stunning island just off the coast. Activities include trekking, mountain biking, snorkelling and scuba diving. STA508 FR £155 £27 Guided by an experienced instructor you’ll be able to fall and float through the sky while enjoying the sensational panoramic views of La Costa Verde. The tandem flight lasts approximately 10-15 minutes as you drift and glide along the Miraflores Coast, Lima. STA513 Learn Spanish in Cuzco Start the day with Rio's most beautiful off the beaten FR £19 track beaches, before checking out the amazing plants and wildlife at the Jardin Botanico. You’ll then hike to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain, before finishing off the day with an ice-cold beer at sunset. STA505 FR FR Learn Spanish on this cool 1-week course suitable £54 for all levels. You’ll be amazed at how much you pick up as you practice your skills outside of the classroom. You’ll get a total of 20 hours of tuition within a small group. Free airport pickup and welcome dinner included. GL INCA DISCOVERY 8 days, Lima – Cuzco FR £310 Guided tour of Sacred Valley 4-day Inca Trail trek Guided tour of Machu Picchu Flight from Lima to Cuzco The Inca Trail is much more than an 42km stroll through the Andes. Get yourself ready for an astonishing four day trek through ancient ruins and mind blowing mountain scenery. Prepare for many a spine tingling moment as you walk with your fellow explorers towards the revered Machu Picchu. Inspiration and life affirmation is around every single corner, and over each hill. Cameras and journals are all well and good, but these are the kind of indelible memories that will never leave you. You’ll fly from Lima to Cuzco early on day 2, where you’ll have a whole day to explore. You’ll spend a day enjoying a guided tour of the Sacred Valley, before you head to Ollantaytambo to start your hike. All your food on the Inca Trail is taken care of, and local porters will help to make the trek hassle free. On the final day, climb the steps to Intipinku to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour, before you head back to Cuzco for the night. Accommodation: Hotels, camping Meals: Included on the Inca Trail Departs: Every Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon, Wed & selected Thu Group Size: Max 16 Average 12 Local Payment: USD 200. GA PID www.statravel.co.uk or call 0871 468 667 0681 call the gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 email:Visit [email protected] call667 the or gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 First Timer’s Guide to LATIN LatinAMERICA: America - 10 89 988- FirstLATIN Timer’s Guide to Latin America AMERICA: Argentina Iguazu Argentina La Paz Buenos Aires Places to Stay Milhouse Hostel, Buenos Aires DORM INC B'FAST fr £8 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £32 Santiago Gimme More! Places to Stay HI, Santiago, Chile With the largest swimming pool in the area, 2 pool tables, ping pong and sports fields, you are only 5 minutes from Iguazu and 10 minutes by bus to Fos Iguazu. There’s a nice big bar and all the rooms have air-con with lockers and linen available. A fantastic location in the quarter of Barrio Brazil in the centre of Santiago. Choose spacious dorms or clean and simple private rooms. Facilities include a TV lounge, internet, laundry, kitchen and a garden terrace. Nippon Hotel, DORM INC B'FAST fr £8 DORM fr £8 DOUBLE fr £20 DOUBLE ENSUITE fr £24 Perfect for young people who want to explore the city, with a great location in the heart of Barrio Brazil. Facilities include internet, tourist information desk, private lockers, laundry, TV lounge, bar and restaurant. Things to do A Japanese hotel in the centre of Santiago! This modern hotel has a bustling restaurant and Japanesestyle interiors. All rooms have a private bathroom, cable TV, telephone, minibar, air-con and WiFi. Oozing friendly charm to make you feel right at home. Located in the middle of Mariscal, one of Quito's most popular areas, it boasts a rooftop terrace, a BBQ area, free internet, communal kitchen and a laundry. 5 Days Spanish on the move – 4 Days FR £40 FR In the middle of the South Pacific lies an ancient £260 culture – the “Rapa Nuis” (which means Big Native People). Easter Island is one of the most mystical islands in the world. Discover her people, her landscape and unravel the mystery of the towering Moais (large rock statues). £46 FR If you’ve just beamed down to Buenos Aires then £10 you’ll need to find your bearings. This high-octane tour lets you see this stylish city without the hassle of organising it yourself. Included are visits to the neighbourhoods of Centro, Monserrat and Recoleta. STA520 Chalet Suisse, HI Continental, La Paz, Bolivia DORM INC B'FAST fr £6 DOUBLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £18 Located close to the historical centre, you’ll love the original Swiss décor. The restaurant serves up tasty cuisine in the company of a live pianist. All the comfortable rooms boast TV, telephone and private bathroom. Right in the heart of the city, in the "old" La Paz the HI Continental is an ideal place to stay. Facilities includes a TV lounge, internet and laundry. Rooms are clean and simple, and bed linen and breakfast are included. You’ll get around this amazing island by van, on foot, on mountain bike and by horse back, as you are expertly guided through the unique environment. If you’re unsure about how to get over to Easter Island, then ask one of our consultants. Some round the world tickets include it in your itinerary. Accommodation: Local House Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Departs: Daily. GA TSCAEN STA528 Quito, Ecuador SINGLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £40 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £52 STA527 is not included. DORM INC B'FAST fr £6 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £16 ACTIVE EASTER ISLAND FR Buenos Aires City Tour – Half Day For three hours a day over four days you’ll be taken to various parts of Buenos Aires for relaxed and informal learning groups in real life situations amongst the local people. Not only will you get out and about in the city, but you’ll also learn the lingo. Please note accommodation Quito, Ecuador SINGLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £36 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £40 Things to do Buenos Aires Tango Experience – Half Day You’ll be whisked away to a 16th Century mansion house, where you’ll enjoy a lovely meal, superb local wine and lots of sexy dancing. Learn a few steps of the Tango from the pros, or just sit back, pour yourself a glass of vino and enjoy the show. STA519 Hostal Jhomana, Santiago, Chile STA526 STA517 STA516 STA515 Santiago, Chile STA525 Located in trendy Palermo, about 15 minutes from downtown. The rooms are plush and spacious, and the facilites include wireless internet, a DVD movie room and private lockers. DORM INC B'FAST fr £6 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £26 La Casa Roja, DORM INC B'FAST fr £6 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £30 STA524 This elegant hostel overlooks the astonishingly wide Avenida 9 de Julio. It has its own lively bar, DVD room and reading room. You also have unlimited computer and internet access and a very helpful reception. Hostel Inn, Iguazu STA523 Hostel Suites Palermo, Buenos Aires STA518 Hostel Suites Obelisco, Buenos Aires DORM INC B'FAST fr £7 DOUBLE INC B'FAST fr £26 Located in downtown Buenos Aires, the Milhouse is one of the city’s coolest and cosiest hostels. Free breakfast every morning, and facilities include a fully equipped kitchen, free internet, lockers and a laundry. Latin America Quito ARGENTINA STA521 Top Tipd tasty, the empanada is Cheap an stuffed r dough patty a thin, circula cheese or d, oo af se eat, and street with various m fé ca y er ev ld in in a slightly vegetables. So es lis ia ec sp country corner, each ! m e. Yum Yu different recip www.statravel.co.uk or call 0871 468 667 0681 call the gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 email:Visit [email protected] call667 the or gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 First Timer’s Guide to AMERICA: Latin America 91 LATIN Cuba - 12 11 Timer’s Guide to Latin America 90 - First LATIN AMERICA: Mexico Havana Mexico Varadero Cuba CUBA MEXICO Cancun Mexico City Tulum Places to Stay Places to Stay Top Tip Moneda, Mexico City DORM INC B'FAST fr £9 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £22 The Weary Traveller, The Weary Traveller, Mexico City Cancun Tulum DORM INC B'FAST fr £7 DORM INC B'FAST fr £6 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £18 DORM INC B'FAST fr £6 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £18 Check out the route map, and open your imagination to some of the amazing places we can take you to: SINGLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £20 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £28 This small and modern budget hotel has clean basic rooms and is just a few minutes walk from the streets of Old Havana. All rooms have air-con and have a bathroom, telephone, safety deposit box, and satellite TV. Ideally placed to enjoy the very best of Cuba's coolest beaches. There’s a restaurant buffet, 24 hour lobby bar, and even a bar and restaurant on the beach! Rooms come with air-con, balcony, private bath, and satellite TV. STA536 Some of the activities along the way include waterfall swims and jungle walks. You’ll also get some cool freebies like a free city and hostel guide with tons of information on Mexico and discount vouchers to use along the way. You can save a bit of cash by choosing to ride on the comfortable first class night buses that operate on some of the routes. Varadero SINGLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £24 DOUBLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £36 Things to do £190 Safe and secure first class bus travel Experienced local guides Free unlimited changes: 24 hours before your next departure. Included adventures and activities Valid for up to six months This stylish, old Havana institution has a street level terrace and some of the finest dining in town. A simple but tasty breakfast is included and the rooftop bar is not to be missed. All rooms have air conditioning, en-suite bathroom, hairdryer and TV. Hotel Islazul Acuazul STA535 These guys know exactly what you want. With cut-price cocktails and kicking club nights, plus big BBQ's and huge breakfasts, it’s located in the village of Tulum, a short bike ride from some incredible beaches. FR The Bamba Bus-pass is a convenient, flexible and easy way to travel around Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. Set routes will take you to colonial towns, Pacific Ocean beaches, jungle settings, archaeological sites, and Caribbean beaches. You’ll travel with like-minded people, all eager to explore the wonders of this part of the world. STA533 Hotel Islazul Caribbean, Havana STA534 BAMBA BUS Inglaterra, Havana SINGLE ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £43 TWIN ENSUITE INC B'FAST fr £58 STA532 Getting Around A great place to hang out with fellow travellers from all around the globe. Look out for the great BBQ nights and the free daily breakfast. Facilities include internet, TV room and a communal openair kitchen on the roof . STA531 Located in downtown Mexico City, this 350 year old building is within walking distance of all the main attractions. Free breakfast, as well as internet, a TV lounge, games room, money exchange and laundry. STA530 STA529 This cool and friendly hostel has a great rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy breakfast, or join other travellers in the evening for a beer. Located in the historical centre of the city, breakfast and free internet access are part of the package. Hotel Amigo, We wouldn’t want to be accused of encouraging anything a little bit naughty, but if you’re hanging out in Havana, you simply have to sit back with a big fat cigar and a cool, minty mojito and watch the world spin by… FR Cancun Merida MEXICO Mexico City Chetumal Oaxaca Palenque San Cristobal Pochutla Puerto Escondido Flores/Tikal GUATEMALA Coban Panajachel Antigua Belize City BELIZE HONDURAS Copan Ruins Havana Salsa Course £24 Fancy a bit of dirty dancing? This awesome 90 minute dance experience will have you swinging your hips with the locals before you know it. If you have no Salsa knowledge - no problem! If you're a bit of a pro - you’ll learn some great new moves. STA537 8 days, Start and Finish: Havana £240 Havana Las Terrazas Vinales Soroa Maria la Gorda Essence of Havana – Full Day FR CUBA LIBRE CUBA FR Take in the rum and the revolution, the cigars and £40 the Chevvies, and the magnificent Spanish colonial architecture of this amazing city. This full-day Havana city tour truly captures the spirit of Cuba's remarkable UNESCO preserved capital city. STA538 Day 1: Havana Day 2-3: Vinales Day 4-5: Maria La Gorda Day 6-7: Soroa Day 8: Havana This brilliant 8 day adventure provides way more punch than the cocktail we’ve named it after. You’ll feel dazed and dizzy with wonder as you check out the white sand beaches and spectacular scenery that makes up the “Garden Province” of Cuba. Pencilled in on your action packed itinerary are visits to the picturesque limestone hills around the village of Vinales, a sunset sail through the corals and utopian beaches of Maria La Gorda, and a couple of days checking out the tobacco and coffee plantations at Soroa. Accommodation: Hotel and homestays Meals: Not included Departs: Every Sat Group Size: Max 15 Average 10 Local Payment: CUC 200. GA CUC www.statravel.co.uk or call 0871 468 667 0681 call the gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 email:Visit [email protected] call667 the or gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 First Timer’s Guide to Latin America - 14 13 - First Timer’s Guide to Latin America “Build Your Own” Around the World Trip! Plan your travels in 3 easy steps… Gapyear.com Travel Team at STA Travel Our team is on hand waiting for you. If you know what you want to do, where you want to go and when they’ll help you find the best prices and get it booked. 1. Head onto gapyear.com Click on ‘Around the world flights” Read the advice See what others say Start to plan Plan your trip You are here: Plan your trip Search the site > 1. THE KEY RTW STOPS IN THIS SOUTH AMERICA... 3. Call or email our team to get it sorted! If you’re unsure, nervous, completely stumped and have no idea and desperately need some help – you’re similar to thousands of others we have spoken to before – so get in contact. The gapyear.com team can: - Find the perfect Round the World ticket that works for you - Sort our transport like Oz, Kiwi & Feejee Experience and Greyhound - Even help with travel insurance quotes Santiago (Chile), Lima (Peru) and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Most of them have been backpackers like you, so they know a thing or two about travel! 2. POPULAR ROUTES THAT INCLUDE SOUTH AMERICA: Travel Planning London - Beijing - overland - Hong Kong - Bangkok - overland - Singapore - Bali - Sydney overland - Melbourne - Auckland - Santiago - overland - Buenos Aires - Sao Paulo overland - Rio De Janeiro - London > Around the world flights London - Mumbai - Singapore - Bali - Sydney - overland - Melbourne - Christchurch - overland - Auckland - Santiago - overland - Lima - London Bus, Plane, Train & Car Country Starter Packs Planners > SAVE MONEY! 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So if you buy everything in one hit – RTW Ticket, insurance, transport e.g. Oz Experience, visas etc. etc. they can give you a discount. Simply ask about our multi-buy options. [FREE downloadable guides] We know how difficult it can be to work out how you can get around the countries you’re going to, where to stay etc. - so our ‘First Time’ series covers exactly that. - How to get around - Where to stay - Cool stuff to do Not reams and reams of endless drivel. Just the stuff you need! FOR EXCLUSIVE GAPYEAR.COM TEAM OFFERS & ADVICE CALL 0845 3 447 667 MONDAY - FRIDAY: 9AM - 6PM | SATURDAY: 10AM - 4PM T E A M AT G A P Y E A R . C O M @ S TAT R AV E L . C O . U K call the gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 email: [email protected] call667 the or gapyear.com travel team: 0845 3 447 667