Latin America SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands
15-17
MACHU PICCHU
There are only two times in your life...
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Now and too late.
THE
#NOREGRETS PHILOSOPHY
This is your youth. You only get to live it once, but if you do it right once is more than enough Live life on your own terms - create the stories now that you’ll recount for decades to come Make new friends from new places
Travel a lot. It’s the only thing you’ll buy that’ll make you richer
Celebrate individuality, diversity, connections & a little bit of craziness Find comfort outside your comfort zone See the world through youthful eyes, a little bit of naivety & a truckload of optimism Live for the moment. Have #NOREGRETS, just memories And above all... Make every moment count.
CONTENTS
Where we go Why choose Contiki? Our 5 ways to travel Ways to stay What we include Meet our team ME Time = your free time Taste of Latin America How we travel Compare Contiki Machu Picchu & Inca Trail Trek Options The Contiki facts Deals, deals, deals Contiki Cares Our ocean causes Giving back with Contiki
06 08 10 12 14 15 16 18 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28
DISCOVERY PLUS TRIPS The Latin Quest Galapagos & Andes Latin Legends The Explorer The Adventurer Mayan Heat Central Trail Sol Seeker Argentina & Brazil Experience
29 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 45
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER TRIPS Ultimate Inca Costa Rica Unplugged Mayan Rocker Caribbean Encounter Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper Peru Uncovered Andes & Amazon Highlights Inca Panorama
46 47 48 50 51 52 54 56 57
FESTIVAL TRIPS Rio Carnival
58 58
HIGH ENERGY TRIPS Mexico Grande Mexican Fiesta Yucatรกn Highlights
59 60 62 63
EASY PACE TRIPS Galapagos Island Hopper
64 65
Got a question? Booking conditions How to book
66 67 68
New for 2016 04
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LAPA, RIO DE JANEIRO
There are lots of ways to travel Latin America but none is quite like Contiki. We guarantee that travelling with us will give you the best possible Latin America experience with more included. With us, you get the best of each destination, with exclusive accommodation, food & experiences, for unbeatable value, every time. MORE CHOICE No two travellers are the same, which is why we offer 5 ways to explore the colourful cultures & sights of Latin America. See p.6 & 7 for where we go & p.10 & 11 to find a travel style to suit.
FOR 18-35s ONLY We’re all about exploring the world with like-minded people –18-35 year olds, no younger, no older. Don’t worry if you’re not travelling as a couple or with a friend from home – 50% of our travellers set off solo.
MORE INCLUDED Our trips include everything you need to have the adventure of a lifetime & the best value: • We take care of all the logistics like booking the accommodation (a mix of comfort, great locations & local stays) • We include breakfast daily • We get you from place to place fast, via a mix of air, wheels & water • We immerse our travellers in the way the locals live & give back in local communities that we know & love • Our team of young Trip Managers & Local Guides know all about the destinations & the sights. You’ll get VIP access to Latin America’s icons, so try not to look too smug as you skip to the front of the mile-long line to Christo Redentor Check out p.8-9 for even more reasons on why Contiki is the only way to go.
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
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JALISCO
Tequila Puerto Vallarta
MEXICO MERIDA
YUCATÁN
CANCUN
guanajuato Guadalajara QUINTANA ROO MICHOACÁN
MEXICO CITY
Guatemalan Rainforest
CAYE CAULKER
GUERRERO CHIAPAS
OAXACA
TEHUANTEPEC
BELIZE
SAN CRISTOBAL
LAGO ATITLAN
SANTA ELENA
GUATEMALA ANTIGUA
MEXICO HOLA! Crammed full of cultural tradition & diverse geography, Mexico is a longtime traveller fave. From Puerto Vallarta & Cancun to the jungles of the Yucatan & World Heritage listed Chichen Itza, this is one place you’ll never forget.
GUATEMALA From jungles to ancient ruins, to coffee plantations & colourful historic towns with cobblestone streets & old-world charm, it’s time to discover what makes Guatemala tick.
WHERE WE GO WE VISIT SOME PRETTY INCREDIBLE PARTS OF LATIN AMERICA, THE ONLY REAL QUESTION IS – WHERE WILL YOUR ADVENTURE TAKE YOU? VISIT CONTIKI.COM/LATIN-AMERICA
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SARAPIQUI ARENAL PLAYA TAMARINDO TORTUGUERO MONTEVERDE COSTA SAN JOSÉ RICA MANUEL ANTONIO
ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
From the heights of the volcanoes to the unexplored waters of Galapagos, this is heaven for lovers of the great outdoors. Snorkel with sea lions & eagle rays, or chill with the giant galapagos Tortoise.
PERU Experience the best
of Peru – from ancient Inca culture, the Andes & the Amazon jungle to awesome locals. See the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, the cultural hub of Cusco, the Colca Canyon & our highlight Machu Picchu where you can trek, or discover by train – you choose.
BELIZE With the motto here being ‘go slow’ this is the perfect place to relax in paradise. Relax on a sunset cruise with a drink in hand after spending a day diving, snorkelling or kayaking. This is the ultimate paradise. COSTA RICA This tiny country is a haven for discovery, so get ready to go in-depth & local. From jungles & rainforests, to volcanoes, beaches & cool coffee plantations, you’ll uncover amazing experiences in this adventure-packed spot.
QUITO
TENA BAÑOS GUAYAQUIL ECUADOR
PERU Lima
AGUAS CALIENTES AMAZON LODGE PUERTO MALDONADO SACRED VALLEY CUSCO
COLCA CANYON
BRAZIL
PUNO AREQUIPA
BRAZIL We’re talking Brazil – home of the bikini, beaches & BBQs! Visit unbelievable Iguassu before incredible Rio. Get cosy with Christ the Redeemer & a boat cruise around Sugarloaf Mountain before sitting back on the beach at Ipanema or Copacabana.
RIO DE JANEIRO IGUASSU FALLS
BUENOS AIRES
ARGENTINA
ARGENTINA Think tango, beef & red wine. Head to Buenos Aires, known as South America’s most cosmopolitan city & paradise for the urbanite. Visit the colourful La Boca district & opt in for a day at the Argentine polo.
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WHY CHOOSE CONTIKI?
INCLUDED FLIGHTS & PRIVATE TRANSPORT Say hello to included flights & private transport, ‘cos why spend a sleepless night on an 18-hour public bus, when you don’t need to? Sure, we love it local too, but we would rather spend our precious time exploring. See p.20
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TRAVELLERS YOUR AGE
AN EXPERT TEAM
FOOD YOU’LL LOVE
This adventure is all about you, new friends & ultimate fun. Unlike some others, our trips are for 18-35s only – with experiences that reflect that youth is all about being young, wild & free. With group sizes averaging 24 people, it’s the perfect mix for an epic group dynamic in this part of the world.
Our team are the best in the business. Imagine having someone to ask questions to, give you all the inside info, organise all the tickets, the hotels, the transport... and take care of all those niggly frustrations that you don’t want to, to make things easy. Well... that’s our team! See p.15
Don’t go hungry each morning, start your day with included breakfast EVERY DAY. And we know the way to your heart really is through taste, so we open your eyes & your tastebuds to the local flavours, think Brazilian BBQ feasts, Argentine steak, Peruvian ceviche & more... See p.18
OTHER WAYS TO TRAVEL LATIN AMERICA MIGHT SOUND EASIER ON YOUR WALLET, DIG A LITTLE DEEPER, DO YOUR RESEARCH & YOU MIGHT END UP WITH SOME UNEXPECTED SURPRISES. YOU ONLY GET THE BEST EXPERIENCE WHEN YOU TRAVEL CONTIKI. HERE’S WHY WE’RE DIFFERENT...
MORE INCLUDED EXPERIENCES WE GIVE BACK Giving back to the destinations that we visit is at the heart of our business. From staying in locally owned accommodation, providing income by visiting & learning about Rio’s favelas, visiting family-run coffee plantations & restaurants to our conservation causes – supporting & loving it local is what we do. See p.28
We won’t charge you extra for the essentials. Iguassu Falls, a boat trip with drinks & a BBQ in Rio, Machu Picchu, Brazilian BBQ feasts, tango dancing lesson, dinner & show... the list goes on. Do your research & you’ll see that we include more in our trips, for 2 simple reasons: We know what young travellers need & want to see. We know that tickets & getting there is a hassle, so we organise it all for you. See p.14
FREE TIME Let’s break the myth here…on our trips, the only thing fixed is your destination – the rest is up to you. We also build lots of ME Time into our trips, and ME Time = free time. We have a heap of hand-picked experiences, we organise the details, get you the best prices, and get you there too so it’s no hassle or time wasting. See p.16
ACCOMMODATION YOU WANT We know what you want when it comes to accommodation: • No dorm rooms, ever • Central stays • En-suite bathrooms in every room • Twin-share overnights • The best facilities: pools, air-con, WiFi, gyms, and bars, plus more. See p.12
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5 WAYS TO GO DISCOVERY PLUS
HIGH ENERGY
9 TRIPS, 10–37 DAYS
3 TRIPS, 6–13 DAYS
Explore as much of Latin America as you want with more highlights included in your trip to ensure you tick off your Latin bucket list.
Experience each incredible destination through culture-filled days, cool sights & late nights!
• See more
• Amazing nightlife
• Do more • More included • Amazing & unique overnights
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• Epic sights • A high energy experience
8 INCREDIBLE COUNTRIES, 22 TRIPS, FROM 5–37 DAYS… WE HAVE IT COVERED, FROM THE WELL-SEASONED EXPLORER TO THOSE STARTING OUT WITH A TASTE OF ADVENTURE!
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER 8 TRIPS, 7–14 DAYS These In-Depth Explorer trips get you into the heart of these incredible regions; you’ll go home feeling like a local. • More Local Guides • More local meals • Less travel time • More 2-night stays
FESTIVALS 1 TRIP, 5 DAYS Get into the action at the world’s biggest party, Rio Carnival, with epic days of exploring & even more epic nights. Combine this with comfy hotels & delicious breakfasts all included.
EASY PACE 1 TRIP, 6 DAYS
• All hotels • Breakfast daily • Epic inclusions
Try a more relaxed way to explore the incredible Galapagos Islands. You’ll have a unique experience in this part of the world. • More ME Time • Later morning starts • Relaxing days LATIN AMERICA 2015-17 LAT
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YOU WOULDN’T SLEEP IN A DORM ROOM WITH 10 PEOPLE AT HOME, OR UPRIGHT IN AN UNCOMFY BUS. SO WHY DO IT WHEN YOU’RE ON HOLIDAY? AFTER A GREAT DAY EXPLORING, SAY YES TO OVERNIGHTS YOU’LL LOVE.
Wake up to all new views at this cute & comfy rustic family-run lodge.
COLCA CANYON LODGE, PERU
Pool, WiFi, fluffy towels… check! Relax & take it easy.
CASONA DEL LAGO, GUATEMALA
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TRIBECA HOTEL, BUENOS AIRES
Comfy beds, the sound of the jungle… it’s eco-perfection.
This luxe downtown hotel has huge rooms, a gym, WiFi & water pressure you’ll love.
PACHIRA LODGE, TORTUGUERO
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HOTELS: Comfort, great locations & a home away from home. RESORTS: Right by the beach, with WiFi, swimming pools & the WOW factor facilities you want.
LOCAL & FAMILY-RUN STAYS: Jungle & rainforest lodges, and unique experiences like a Costa Rican eco-lodge, a Jungle Lodge in Peru & family- run overnights in the Colca Canyon & Merida to name a few.
Visit contiki.com /latin-america for more details of our awesome accommodation Keeping in touch is easy, with WiFi at 90% of the places we stay
AMAZON JUNGLE LODGE, PERU Stay in the heart of the city, only 2 blocks from the beach in comfort & style.
MAR IPANEMA HOTEL, RIO
Let the sounds of the Amazon soothe you into slumber in our luxury jungle lodge.
Beach at your doorstep, comfy beds, pools & more‌ a true place to un-wind.
HOLIDAY INN, CANCUN
HOTEL SOL, SACRED VALLEY
This cute colonial hotel is just a 2 min walk to the town centre. LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
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CITY SIGHTSEEING TOUR , BUENOS AIRES
MORE INCLUDED EXPERIENCES WE KNOW WHAT’S ON YOUR LATIN BUCKET LIST, SO WE INCLUDE IT. WITH US, YOU WON’T GET STUNG BY ADDITIONAL FEES FOR THE ESSENTIALS. We show you the sights that you’ve got to see, organise the tickets, and let you get the most out of your time by skipping right to the front of the queues. Put all this together, it’s the stuff you just can’t get when travelling any other way.
HERE’S A TASTE OF WHAT WE INCLUDE • Iguassu Falls, Argentina & Brazil sides • Canopy hiking, Monteverde • White-water rafting, Costa Rica
• San Cristobal, Santa Cruz & Isabela Islands in the Galapagos • Cenote swimming, Cancun • Bike tour, Argentina
• Christ the Redeemer, Rio
• City & orientation tours in every destination
• Ancient Mayan ruins, Mexico
Plus more….
Check out the • on our trip itineraries & visit contiki.com 14
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AFTERNOON BOAT TRIP
OUR TEAM SAY FAREWELL TO GOOGLE TRANSLATE, MAPS & STRESS – OUR TEAM HAVE YOU SORTED. ZIP-LINING, COSTA RICA
Our Trip Managers are the best trained in the industry. Just like you, they love to travel & are young & fun. They’ve got you covered on anything & everything Latin America. Combine this with our Local Guides who’ll help you get the inside track on destinations & what makes them tick…it’s all on! NO STRESS: Transport & travel sorted, plus bookings, and entry to sites taken care of by our team. NO HASSLE: No question is too hard, plus priceless knowledge on every single spot is what they live for. EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE: They’re all locals, or those who now call Latin America home - they speak the language, and know each spot like the back of their hands. Plus passionate Local Guides – priceless insider access at no extra cost. THE BEST: Awesome travel buddies who will make sure you have the best time exploring these incredible countries.
Meet our amazing team at contiki.com/team TRIP MANAGER, BRAZIL
WILDLIFE KAYAKING ADVENTURE, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
LOCAL GUIDE, MEXICO
LOCAL GUIDE, ARGENTINA
TRIP MANAGER, PERU
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ME TIME = FREE TIME. TIME TO DO WHAT YOU WANT, THE WAY YOU WANT. Our trips include the must-see & must-do essentials as part of the experience (see p.14), but we include lots of free time in our itineraries too. We’ve got a heap of ME Time optionals that are hand-picked to showcase a destination, so you can experience even more. We organise them for you, get you there so it’s no hassle & get you great prices. Get ready to tick some things off that bucket list! • Mountain biking, Peru, ‘cos who doesn’t like exploring on two wheels! • Paragliding, Rio, for all new city views
• Surf lessons in Costa Rica, to channel your inner surfer babe • Kayaking in the Amazon or Belize, we love exploring from the water
• Ziplining, Costa Rica for 360º rainforest views
• Polo experience, Buenos Aires. A steak overload, watching a game & literally learning from the pro’s…why not!
• Sugarloaf Mountain, Brazil
• And best of all, that’s just the start
• Volcano hiking, Antigua…because you can
To find out more visit contiki.com/metime
• Speedboat ride, Iguassu Falls for a serious adrenaline rush
Important: ME Time optional activities are not included in the price of your trip. They are run by 3rd party operators & on occasions, for some of the activities, travellers may be required to sign a waiver to participate. Before you leave, it’s important that you check your insurance includes your participation in adventure activities & be aware that some of our optionals can be physically demanding & may involve some risk.
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SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN, RIO
POLO EXPERIENCE, BUENOS AIRES
SPEEDBOAT BOAT TRIP, IGUASSU FALLS
KAYAK EXPERIENCE, BELIZE
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
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ME TIME FOODIE ADVENTURES!
CEVICHE, PERU
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BBQ FEAST, BRAZIL
EMPANADAS, ARGENTINA
TASTE OF
LATIN AMERICA LOVE FOOD, LOVE CONTIKI: They say getting to the heart of a destination is through your stomach, so we include more food experiences in our trip prices. Take a true foodie journey, with delicious included meals, fresh ingredients & local delicacies you want when you travel. • Breakfast included daily: save yourself money & time & get right out into the action! • Lots of included local dinner experiences including: Argentinian tango dinner & show, an epic Brazilian BBQ & some amazingly fresh ceviche in Peru • Plenty of ME Time (free time) for you to head out on your own journey of adventures, especially lunches
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PRIVATE AIR-CON MINI COACHES
LOCAL FUN WAYS TO GET AROUND
HOW WE TRAVEL
INCLUDED INTERNAL FLIGHTS
LOCAL BOAT RIDES
SAY NO TO OVERNIGHT BUSES, CROSS COUNTRY TRAIN RIDES & SPENDING HALF YOUR HOLIDAY ON THE ROAD.
HOW WE TRAVEL
Let us take the hassle out of travelling. We know your time in this part of the world is limited, that’s why nearly all of our trips include internal flights. And when you’re not in the air, our comfy mini-coaches get you from A to B with ease (accommodation pickups, and your bags loaded for you…yes please!)
• BOAT RIDES
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• INCLUDED INTERNAL FLIGHTS • PRIVATE AIR-CON MINI-COACHES
• LOCAL EXPERIENCES; TRICOLOS, BIKES, CANOES, CABLE CARS & MORE
COMPARE CONTIKI WITH ANY TRIP, YOU NEED TO DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE YOU GO. WHERE TO STAY, WHAT TO EAT, WHAT TO SEE (YOU GET THE PICTURE!). WE COMPARED YOUR HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS BELOW – WITH & WITHOUT CONTIKI. SO, WHAT KIND OF TRAVELLER ARE YOU? YOUR TRAVEL CHECKLIST ACCOMMODATION
…DO YOU WANT THIS? • Accommodation that could be miles out of town, with shared bathrooms…and extra hidden charges • Hours scouring websites for recommendations from people you don’t even know…
OR WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE THIS WITH CONTIKI? COMFORT & LOCATIONS YOU WANT: • Centrally located hotel stays with the best facilities like swimming pools, en-suites, WiFi & aircon as standard • Locally owned Special Stay experiences • No camping, except when it counts, on our NEW 4-day Inca Trail Trek on the Ultimate Inca trip
GETTING AROUND
YOUR TEAM
• Waiting hours for an overnight public bus
FAST & COMFORTABLE:
• Being squashed in with other people right up in your grill
• Included internal flights
• Transport with no bathroom & no idea of the next stop – uh-oh
• Train or a boat, anyone?
• To waste time buying tickets, finding the bus stop or taxi rank, finding directions & looking for the essentials like an ATM (when you don’t speak the language…) • Spending time with your nose in a guidebook rather than checking out the sites
EXPERIENCES
FOOD
• Private air-con mini-coaches
WE HAVE THE BEST TRAINED TEAM IN THE BUSINESS: • A Trip Manager & network of Local Guides • No hassle, like finding the hotel, the ATM & the bathrooms - we’ll make sure you’re in the know & more
• Making your own way to the sights, finding your way to buy tickets, paying for those tickets (with the right change), then waiting in line in the heat for hours
NO WASTED TIME:
• Playing food roulette with meals you can’t quite identify
• Breakfast included daily
• Included entry fees, tickets & queue jumping • Included experiences like: Christ the Redeemer, ziplining in Costa Rica, tango show in Buenos Aires, guided favela tour in Rio
• Lots of delicious local meal experiences
• Hunting down breakfast each morning
PEOPLE
• To come back with a camera & phone full of selfies, cos there’s no one on hand to take your picture • To be stuck with people on a completely different wavelength - older, younger or both
• To make new friends your age, from all over the world: new friends for life • To take the trip of a lifetime, have the best experience & ultimate fun
And don’t just take our word for it. Check out our trips online & read our traveller reviews for info straight from those that know it best – our travellers! LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
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MACHU PICCHU INCA TRAIL TREK THE LOST CITY, MACHU PICCHU. ONE OF THE MAN-MADE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD & 100% BUCKET LIST-WORTHY.
PAGE 47
11.5 KM Avg. time Hiking: 6 hrs. DAY 1
Llactapata (3,750m) Bus to “KM82”
Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200m)
1ST NIGHT Wayllabamba (3,000m)
CHECKPOINT “KM82” (2,720m)
2ND NIGHT: Pacamayo (3,600m)
DAY 2
10.5 KM Avg. hiking time: 7 hrs.
DAY 3
15 KM Avg. hiking time: 8 hrs.
You asked for it, so we’ve got it! Get amongst the greatest of the great outdoors on one of the world’s top-5 hikes. Our brand new trip will see you take on Machu Picchu like a pro as you spend four days hiking the iconic Inca Trail as part of our new 8-day experience, the Ultimate Inca.
ESSENTIAL BOOKING REQUIREMENTS
When you book your trip (as early in advance as possible) it’s essential that you let us know the following details: Full name (as appears on passport), nationality, date of birth & gender. What else? It’s also important that the passport information that you submit with your application is exactly the same as the passport you will use to travel to Latin America & it must have 6 months validity at time of travel. You will also need your passport to enter onto the trail.
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Note: If your information changes it can result in a penalty & cancellation of admission to the Trail. No refunds will be given. Book early! The Peruvian Government closely controls the number of travellers on the Trail, with only 500 permits available each day. Inca Trail permits are non-refundable & nontransferable so it’s essential that you let us know your correct passport details at the time of booking so we can process your application quickly. (Contiki will process your application on your behalf within 3 days of booking but we cannot guarantee permit availability.)
WE GIVE OUR TRAVELLERS THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME WITH 2 WAYS TO TREK: 1-day Inca Trail Trek, available on all our trips that visit Peru.
OR
Chachabamba (2,100m)
START
Train to “KM104”
Our new 4-day Inca Trail Trek as part of our Ultimate Inca trip – new for 2016.
Hike through the cloudforest
Wiñay Wayna (2,600m) Stop for your included lunch soak up more incredible views
Sungate Viewpoint/ Intipunku (2,700m) Get that first glimpse of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu (2,400m) END
CHECKPOINT “KM104”
Choose our 1-day hike on all our trips that visit Peru. Take the train to KM104 then channel the ancient Incas on this 1-day experience. See pages 30-33, 36-39 & 54-57 for trips where you can take the 1-day trek.
Runkurakay Pass (3,860m)
Sayacmarca (3,600m)
Phuyupatamarca (3,600m) END
3RD NIGHT: Wiñay Wayna (2,600m)
DAY 4
6KM Avg. hiking time: 3.5 hrs.
Sun Gate (2,700m)
Machu Picchu (2,400m)
Note: the 4-day hike is not bookable on its own, only as part of the Ultimate Inca trip. See p.47 for more info & visit contiki.com for full details on the experience.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
SEASONS
The Inca Trail is open all year (apart from February when it’s closed for maintenance), with Apr to Nov being peak season.
DAILY DISTANCES FOR THE 4-DAY TREK: day 1: 11.5 km, day 2: 10.5 km, day 3: 15 km, day 4: 6 km
CAMPSITES
Campsites are subject to change according to the designation of the governmental institution (Ministerio De Cultura) that regulates the use of the Inca Trail. Note: This applies to the 4-day trek only.
BOOK EARLY
To ensure you get your spot, we advise at least 3 months before travelling between Oct & Apr & 6 months before travelling in May to Sept, although it is at times possible to get permits outside these timescales. Please note that the trail is closed in February for maintenance.
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IS ALL WE DO
SAVE YOUR TIME TRAVEL PIONEERS We’re the original travel company for young explorers & after 53 years, we’re still the original & the best
1000
ALL ACCOMMODATION INCLUDED, EVERY NIGHT! No researching on TripAdvisor necessary with Contiki!
HERE’S A LITTLE SNAPSHOT OF WHY TRAVELLING WITH CONTIKI IS AN EXPERIENCE UNLIKE ANY OTHER. CONTIKI.COM/COMPARE
Contiki team members around the world
INCLUDED TEAM ME TIME = FREE TIME The only thing fixed is your destination – the rest is up to you
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Our trips have a Trip Manager & Driver, plus Local Guides in some destinations, all included & with you 24/7! It’s priceless knowledge & insight into the destinations you can’t get if you travel alone. Leave the hard work to us & do what you came to do – have fun!
Say NO to wasting precious travel time. Take to the destinations like a pro & let us take care of the hassle. No waiting for transportation, no lining up for tickets, no looking for tourist info centres, ATMs, or bathrooms
TRANSPORT INCLUDED From comfy coaches, internal flights & boat rides, it’s all about experiencing a range of ways to explore your chosen destination
YOU CAN DO IT! 50% of our travellers go solo. It’s all about a great blend of groups, couples & friends – all like-minded explorers
BOOK EARLY & SAVE It’s really pretty simple. Book & pay early for the best deal on your trip. Don’t miss out on these great deals. Check contiki.com/deals for the latest.
BOOK WITH FRIENDS We believe in the principle of the more the merrier! Start early & get your friends on board for an amazing adventure. HERE’S HOW YOU CAN SAVE, IT’S REALLY PRETTY SIMPLE • 4 OR MORE – everyone saves 5% • 7 OR MORE – everyone saves 7.5% • 10 OR MORE – everyone saves 10% (or…invite an 11th & bring them, or yourself, for free!)
#1 SAVE UP TO US$720* Pay in full on or before 16th July, 2015 & save up to 10%
TRAVELLING AGAIN?
#2 SAVE UP TO US$540* Pay in full on or before 17th September, 2015 & save up to 7.5%
PART PAY
CHECK OUT THE BEST DEALS ON CONTIKI TRIPS AT Travelled with us or one of our sister companies before? Welcome back to the family with 5% additional discount
CONTIKI.COM/DEALS
BOOK 2 OR MORE TRIPS
Once you’ve booked, register online, share it with your family & friends & pay off your trip over time!
WITH ALL WE INCLUDE, YOU CAN’T DO WHAT WE DO, FOR LESS.
$$$ Can’t get enough of Contiki? We know the feeling. Book 2 trips of 7+ days & get US$50 off your second trip!
It’s just another way you’ll save when you travel Contiki.
The facts: All these discounts apply to the land portion of your trip price only. (This excludes taxes, included flight costs, extra accommodation, Inca trail permit & optional activities. Your trip price does not include the costs of international flights that start or end your trip). You can combine loyalty discounts (‘Travelling Again’), group discounts (‘Book with Friends’), multi trip discounts (‘2 or more’) & early payment (‘Book early & save’) discounts on trips of 7 days or longer. ‘Book early’ savings only apply to departures on or after 31st October 2015, they do not apply to bookings made within 45 days of trip departure & may not be combined with Last Minute Deals. Group discounts (‘Book with friends’) is available on all trips. * Book early savings of US$720 & US$540 based on The Latin Quest p.30
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GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
CONTIKI CARES
POWERED BY THE TREADRIGHT FOUNDATION, CONTIKI CARES IS ON A VERY EXCITING JOURNEY; A JOURNEY TO CREATE A COMMUNITY OF YOUNG & PASSIONATE PEOPLE WHO SIMULTANEOUSLY LIVE WITH CONSCIENCE & LIVE TO TRAVEL.
TIMELINE OF CONTIKI CARES PROJECTS Since 2011, Contiki has partnered with some incredible ocean-based organisations & people, including CĂŠline Cousteau, providing support for sustainability & conservation initiatives & educating travellers through Earth Month expeditions. Check out contiki.com/storytellers contiki.com/contikicares & treadright.org for more.
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2012
2014
MAR Leadership
2011
Sustainable Coastlines
2012 Oceana
Sea Turtle Conservancy
2013
SharkCount
2014
Surfrider Australia
OCEAN CAUSES Oceans have a domino effect on the entire eco-system of the planet. We’re proud to support projects protecting the world’s oceans – many of which are based in magical Latin America. WE’VE DONE SOME GREAT THINGS In 2012, we launched our inaugural Earth Month Expedition – giving travellers & our team the chance to celebrate Earth Month & get hands-on with our projects. 2012’s trip explored the Mesoamerican Reef system in Mexico, in 2013 we visited the Galapagos Islands & 2014 was all about exploring beautiful Costa Rica. Check out contiki.com/storytellers for what 2015 has in store.
MAR LEADERS The Mesoamerican Reef (MAR) Leadership Program supports young, local environmentalists working hands on to protect MAR. MAR is the second largest reef system in the world that spans 1000km of coastline along Mexico, Belize, Guatemala & Honduras. Protecting this jaw-dropping corner of the Earth is vital in the defence against
storms & coastal erosion & in protecting a myriad of different species of coral, fish, manatees, mammoth whale sharks, several species of sea turtles & other amazing marine life.
SHARKSCOUNT Of all the millions of animals on the planet, sharks are among the most misunderstood. In 2013 Contiki helped kick off SharksCount in the Galapagos Islands. The programme empowers divers & snorkellers to identify, count & log the sharks they see in the water, with data contributing to making a real difference to the protection of sharks globally.
SEA TURTLE CONSERVANCY In April 2014 we partnered with the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC) – the oldest & most accomplished sea turtle organisation in the
world. The STC conducts research that has been instrumental in saving sea turtles from extinction throughout the Caribbean, as well as Central America. We are proud to be to support their amazing initiatives, research & training of marine biologists.
SURFRIDER FOUNDATION Our newest partnership in 2014! As part of Surfrider Australia’s “Rise Above Plastics” campaign, Contiki sponsors a number of Aussie beach clean-ups, including a clean-up event for 100 Contiki employees. Surfriders also works with Contiki around the impacts of plastics in the ocean, the dangers of plastic pollution, advocating the reduction of single-use plastics & recycling of all plastics.
VISIT TREADRIGHT.ORG TO CHECK OUT OUR EXCITING NEW PARTNERSHIPS WITH WILDAID & ALLIANCE FOR ARTISAN ENTERPRISE
5 WAYS TO TREAD LIGHTLY WHEN TRAVELLING 1. Bring a reusable water bottle & reduce the use of plastics.
2. Explore cities by foot, bike or public transport on your ME Time to reduce your carbon footprint. 3. Switch off when you’re not in your hotel room to conserve energy.
4. Buy local – you’ll support the communities you visit & help reduce shipping from other countries. 5. Conserve water in hotels by turning off the taps when not in use – water is a scarce resource in many of the countries we visit.
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
27
COFFEE PLANTATION, GUATEMALA
GIVING BACK GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITIES WE VISIT IS AT THE HEART OF EVERYTHING THAT WE DO. As well as our ocean causes (see p.26), we’re proud to support local businesses on our trips, whether it be the places we eat, the places we shop, the accommodation where we stay, or the places we visit. The profits feed back directly into the local communities by providing jobs & income. Where other travel companies may own their vehicles & run these independently of the locals, wherever possible we try & work with local suppliers. It’s our way of saying thanks. Here’s just a few ways you can give back on our trips: • Cusco Centre for Textile Traditions – visit the centre that employs more than 500 people in an effort to maintain the more than 10,000 year old Andean weaving traditions. • Experience the great green & leatherback turtles nesting in some of the most important nesting grounds in the western hemisphere in Costa Rica. • SharkCount in the Tortuguero run by WildAid, empowering you to count & log the sharks you see, contributing to protect sharks globally. ...and that’s just the start.
28
CONTIKI.COM
FAVELA TOUR, RIO DE JANEIRO
CUSCO CENTRE FOR TEXTILE TRADITIONS
DISCOVERY PLUS
TICK OFF CHRIST THE REDEEMER, IGUASSU FALLS, LAKE TITICACA & COPACABANA TO NAME JUST A FEW, ON THESE TRIPS IT’S ALL ABOUT SEEING & DOING IT ALL. 9 TRIPS / 10–37 DAYS
INCLUDED
The Latin Quest ........................................ p.30 Galapagos & Andes ................................. p.32 Latin Legends............................................ p.34 The Explorer............................................... p.36 The Adventurer ......................................... p.38 Mayan Heat ............................................... p.40 Central Trail ............................................... p.42 Sol Seeker ................................................... p.44 Argentina & Brazil Experience .............. p.45
• Twin-share rooms, or a single room for a little extra privacy, for a little more • Breakfast daily, plus lots of included dinners
• Included activities like a salsa lesson, a guided favela tour & a hot spring swim in Chivay
• Sightseeing tours of all major areas
• Internal flights & transfers, plus modern airconditioned coaches, mini-coaches or vans
• An experienced Trip Manager plus English speaking expert Local Guides
• ME Time – your chance to explore your way or choose our awesome optional activities
contiki.com/discovery-plus-latin-america
We Love WiFi – stay connected with WiFi at most overnight stops
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
29
ECUADOR/PERU ARGENTINA/BRAZIL
DISCOVERY PLUS
36 DAYS - FROM US$9859 PP*/US$274 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$720. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
QUITO 1
SANTA CRUZ ISABELA
Puerto Ayora 1
Puerto 2 VILLAMIL
TENA 2
SAN CRISTOBAL
2 BAテ前S
2 Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO
PACIFIC OCEAN
GUAYAQUIL 1 ECUADOR Flight to Lima
3 RIO DE JANEIRO
Paraguay
2 IGUASSU SSU S FALLS Flight from Guayaquil
3 ARGENTINA
BRAZIL
Lima
Rainforest
AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) 1
SACRED VALLEY 1 PERU
8 World Heritage sites visited
LAPA, RIO DE JANEIRO
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train, canoe or boat
AMAZON LODGE 1
INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo
Coast
1 PUERTO MALDONADO
CUSCO 4 Andes Chivay
COLCA CANYON 1
PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 2
1 AREQUIPA BUENOS AIRES 4
Uruguay
THE LATIN QUEST ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Start Quito. Hola Quito! Meet your group before exploring this famed & historic city. Later, visit the Equator line before dinner. Hotel (D) Locally guided city tour to see the Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral VisitPanecillo lookout Visit the Inti Ñan Museum at the Equator Day 2: Quito to Tena. It’s out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views & a thermal pool swim en route. A perfect way to spend the day. Hotel (B) Therma l springs swim Day 3: Tena. This morning its all about ME TIME - have a lie in or opt to visit an indigenous community. Get your adrenaline pumping this afternoon on class 3-4 rapids. Hotel (B, D) M Rafting experience Day 4: Tena to Baños. We head to Baños today, the adventure capital of Ecuador. Tonight get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson. Hotel (B) Sa lsa dancing lesson Day 5: Baños. With a free day, explore your way & Baños goes off! Baños is a hub for travellers who love great weather, small town vibes & the great outdoors. Choose your adventure - horseback riding, canyoning or abseiling. Hotel (B, D) Day 6: Baños to Guayaquil. Today we head to Guayaquil. A walk down the promenade is essential. Tonight, set sail on an evening river cruise with drinks. Hotel (B) Eveningriver cruise Day 7: Guayaquil to Isabela Island. Todaywe fly to the Galapagos Islands. First up, we’ll check out the islands’ old lava tunnels & see the giant tortoises. Later, we head off to Isabela Island. Hotel (B, D) See famous Galapagos giant tortoises ride Boatto Isabela Island Day 8: Isabela Island. This morning we’ll kayak with sea lions & snorkel with colourful fish. This afternoon we’ll visit the Wall of Tears – you might even see some baby tortoises along the way! Hotel (B, L) Wildlifekayaking & Snorkelling adventure Visitthe Wall of Tears Day 9: Isabel Island to Santa Cruz Island. Relax this morning before we take off to Santa Cruz Island. This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay for a stroll along the beach & a swim. Hotel (B) VisitTortuga Bay Day 10: Santa Cruz Island to San Cristobal Island. We’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station this morning & check out the tortoises & land iguanas before heading out to San Cristobal! Hotel (B) Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station Day 11: San Cristobal Island. Today it’s all about the water as we head out to Kicker Rock to snorkel. Keep your eyes peeled for manta rays, sea turtles & maybe a Galapagos shark! Later, relax on the beach before a BBQ feast. Hotel (B, L, D) Boat cruise & off shore bird spotting experience ExploreKicker Rock’s 143m cone VisitPuerto Grande beach Day 12: San Cristobal to Lima. Today we fly to Lima where we relax before our next adventure begins. Hotel (B) Day 13: Lima. We’ll take a city tour to uncover the city sights. Hotel (B, D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores Day 14: Lima to Arequipa. We fly to the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour. Hotel (B) Citywalking tour Visit Santa Catalina Convent & Plaza de Armas Day 15: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. Wedrive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve on our way to the Colca Canyon. We stop for a hot springs swim before a night at our rustic lodge. (B, L, D) ContikiSpecial Stay See wild vicuña See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip
• • • •
•
•
Day 16: Colca Canyon to Puno. First up we’ll try & spot the Andean condor. Later, experience the Andes along the way to Puno. Hotel (B) Visit Cruz del Condor & Maca Pueblo Seethe massive Colca Canyon Day 17: Puno. Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising Lake Titicaca to the island of Taquile & the floating Uros Islands. Meet locals & see their handmade crafts. Hotel (B, L, D) Ride on a triciclo! Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities Day 18: Puno to Cusco. First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins. See the Inca walls in Raqchi & then the ancient Incan empire, Cusco. Hotel (B) Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani Seethe Temple of Wiracocha Day 19: Cusco. Experience Cusco on a guided walking tour then the afternoon’s yours. Explore Inca buildings, or try local food or adrenaline activities. Hotel (B, D) Citywalking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro Market Day 20: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Todaywe explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & Pisac ruins Try some local Chicha de Jora Day 21: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads on offer, before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B)
• • • • • • • • • • •
Da y 21: Inca Trail Trek. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the Trail to our highlight Machu Picchu! Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloud forest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our Local Guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.22-23 for more info. Code: QURJT
• • • • • • • • •
• • •
• • •
Day 22: Machu Picchu to Cusco. Wake early & enter Machu Picchu for sunrise. Learn more about Machu Picchu on a tour, then explore. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar Day 23: Cusco. Why not start the day mountain biking & rafting? Then get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B, D) Day 24: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Flyover the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. (B, L, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Visit the Infierno community PuertoMaldonado city tour Junglecanopy hike Day 25: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like the giant otter, before it’s back to the city. Hotel (B, L, D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip Day 26: Puerto Maldonado to Lima. Todayit’s back to Lima for our last day in Peru. Hotel (B) Day 27: Lima to Buenos Aires. Today we board our flight to Argentina - it’s hola Buenos Aires! Hotel (B) Day 28: Buenos Aires. This morning get out & experience this iconic city on a bike tour. Tonight, get ready to tango as you learn all the tricks at a dance lesson & show. Hotel (B, D) City sights bike tour - see the neighbourhoods of La Boca & Puerto Madero Tango lesson, show & dinner Days 29 - 30: Buenos Aires. Start day 2 with a coach tour to see the rest of the city & then you can experience BA your way. Catch a football game, drink wine at a polo match or hit the shops. Hotel (B)( B)
•
• • • •
• •
M Argentine culinary experience Day 31: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls. Today we fly to Puerto Iguassu then travel to the Brazilian side to see the 275 individual waterfalls. You could take a heli-flight for a different angle, or try your luck at spotting macaws & toucans. Hotel (B) Flight & transfers & visit Iguassu Falls Day 32: Iguassu Falls We’ll . cross back into Argentina & visit their side of the Falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat. Try a speed boat ride to feel the spray of the Falls, or go for a swim at the hotel. Tonight, try delicious Brazilian BBQ. Hotel (B, D) VisitIguassu Falls Tastedelicious Brazilian BBQ Day 33: Iguassu Falls to Rio. Home to the world’s largest carnival celebration, Copacabana Beach & the Brazilian bikini, get ready for good times in Rio. Hotel (B, D) Day 34: Rio de Janeiro. Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer & after we’ll chill on a boat ride with great views of Sugarloaf take a swim, have a drink & enjoy a BBQ. Hotel (B, L) Entry to Christ the Redeemer for amazing city views M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain Day 35: Rio de Janeiro. Today is yours to explore. Try hang gliding, hang or grab your towel, sunnies & iPod & chill on Rio’s famous Ipanema Beach. Tonight, end the trip as we head out for our last night out in this amazing city! Hotel (B) Day 36: Depart Rio de Janeiro. We’ll give you an insiders-only experience to visit a favela & see the contrast of how some cariocas live. Our adventure ends after our favela tour. (B) Loca lly guided favela tour
• • •
•
•
TRAVELLING EARLY? Travelling between 17th Aug 2015 & 1st Feb 2016? The below trips (QURJ/QURJT 2015/16) are 37 days long & feature a slightly modified itinerary from the map shown, spending 1 night in Tena, 2 nights in Guayaquil, 3 nights in Buenos Aires & 2 nights in Buzios. See below for start & end times & visit contiki.com/latin-quest for full details.
Code: QURJ/QURJT2015/16 Start Quito
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan
9915 9915 9915 9915 9915
2015 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
17 14 12 9 7 ●
Start Quito
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
Feb 9 Mar 8
9915 9915
2016 22 20 17 15 12
10115 10115 10115 10115 10115
Jan 4 Feb 1
10115 NA
Single room supplement add US$1939. ● Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Puerto Maldonado.
Code: QURJ/QURJT2016/17 Start Quito
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
Apr May May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
9859 9859 9859 9859 9859 9859 9859 9859
2016 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
29 28 25 23 20 18 ▼ 15 12
Start Quito
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
2016 4 2 30 27 25 22 19 17
10059 10059 10059 10059 10059 10059 10059 10059
Oct 10 Nov 14 Nov 7 Dec 12 Dec 12 ■ Jan 16
9859 9859 9859
10059 10059 10059
2017 Jan 2 Jan 30
9859 9859
10059 NA
Feb 6 Mar 6
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement add US$1885. Start Quito 7:00am & end Rio 11:00am.
SNAPSHOT
35
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION Unique Special Stays: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge, 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge &33 nights in twin-share hotels
57
INCLUDED MEALS 35 breakfasts (B), 7 lunches (L), 15 dinners (D)
58
INCLUDED MEALS (TREKKING OPTION) 35 breakfasts (B), 8 lunches (L), 15 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 2 international & 7 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Go local at a salsa lesson • Evening river cruise & drinks • Galapagos BBQ feast at our favourite local spot • City tour of Arequipa visiting the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • City sight seeing bike tour in Buenos Aires • BBQfeast in Iguassu • Guided favela tour & city tour in Rio • Afternoon boat cruise in Rio • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration.
ME TIME OPTIONS
Note: Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February. Note: The Galapagos Islands have a compulsory US$100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park, a US$20 INGALA fee & a US$5 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival (subject to increase). Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations. ▼ Trip is in Rio during Olympics 2016.
M Hanggliding M Rappelling(abseiling) & canyoning day trip M Rafting See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
■ Trip spends Xmas in Arequipa & NYE in the Sacred Valley.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ LATIN-QUEST
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
31
ECUADOR/PERU
DISCOVERY PLUS
26 DAYS - FROM US$6745 PP*/US$260 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$520. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ECUADOR
QUITO 1
SANTA CRUZ
ISABELA
Puerto Ayora 1
Puerto 2 VILLAMIL
2 TENA SAN CRISTOBAL
2 BAテ前S
2 Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO
1
PACIFIC OCEAN
GUAYAQUIL PERU
Rainforest
AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) 1 2 Lima
AMAZON LODGE 1
Ollantaytambo INCA TRAIL 1 PUERTO SACRED VALLEY 1 MALDONADO PERU CUSCO 4
Coast Andes
6 World Heritage sites visited
ISABELA ISLAND
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train, canoe or boat
Chivay
COLCA CANYON 1 PACIFIC OCEAN
2 PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 1 PAC PACIFIC AREQUIPA OCEAN OC Boliv
GALAPAGOS & ANDES
SNAPSHOT
25
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION Unique Special Stays: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge, 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge &23 nights in twin-share hotels
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Start Quito. Hola Quito! Meet your group before exploring. Your expert guide will teach you all about this city & its past, then check out the views at Panecillo. Later, visit the Equator line before dinner. Hotel (D) Locally guided city tour to see the Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral VisitPanecillo lookout Visit the Inti Ñan Museum at the Equator
• • •
Day 2: Quito to Tena. It’s out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views & a thermal pool swim en route. A perfect way to spend the day. Hotel (B) Therma l springs swim
•
Day 3: Tena. This morning its all about ME Time - have a lie in or opt to visit an indigenous community. Get your adrenaline pumping this afternoon on class 3-4 rapids. Hotel (B, D) M Rafting experience Day 4: Tena to Baños. We head to Baños today, the adventure capital of Ecuador, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Tonight get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson. Hotel (B) Sa lsa dancing lesson
•
Day 5: Baños. With a free day, explore your way & Baños goes off! Situated in a valley of waterfalls & hot springs, Baños is a hub for travellers who love great weather, small town vibes & the great outdoors. Choose your adventure - horseback riding, canyoning, or rappelling. Hotel (B, D) Day 6: Banos to Guayaquil. Todaywe’re off to discover Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city & its economic hub. This cosmopolitan city is one of Ecuador’s new hotspots & a walk down the promenade with the city’s colourful Cerro Santa Ana district as your backdrop is essential. Tonight, set sail on an evening river cruise with drinks. Hotel (B ) Eveningriver cruise
•
cruise & off-shore bird-spotting experience • Boat Kicker Rock’s 143m cone • Explore • VisitPuerto Grande beach Day 12: San Cristobal to Lima. Today we fly to Lima & relax before our next adventure begins. Hotel (B)
Day 13: Lima. We’ll take a city tour to uncover the city sights. Hotel (B, D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores
•
Day 14: Lima to Arequipa. We fly to the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour. Hotel (B) Citywalking tour Visit the Santa Catalina Convent & the Plaza de Armas
• •
Day 16: Colca Canyon to Puno. First up we’ll try & spot the Andean condor. Later, experience the Andes along the way to Puno. Hotel (B) VisitMaca Pueblo Seethe massive Colca Canyon VisitCruz del Condor
• • •
Day 17: Puno. Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising Lake Titicaca to the island of Taquile & the floating Uros Islands. Meet locals & see their handmade crafts. Hotel (B, L, D) Ride on a triciclo! Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities
• • •
• • • •
•
Day 10: Santa Cruz Island to San Cristobal Island. We’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station this morning & check out the tortoises & land iguanas before heading out to San Cristobal! This afternoon explore the island by bike before watching the sunset. Hotel (B) Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
•
Day 11: San Cristobal Island. First up: a coastal cruise to spot native birds, before hitting the water in search of puffer fish & cute sea lion pups. We’ll snorkel around Kicker Rock’s 143m tuff cone looking out for manta rays, starfish & maybe a Galapagos shark. Later, relax on the beach, before a BBQ feast. Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 23: Cusco. Why not start the day mountain biking & rafting? Then get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B,D) Day 24: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then chill to the sound of the jungle. (B, L, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Visit the Infierno community PuertoMaldonado city tour Junglecanopy hike
• • • •
• • • •
• •
• • •
•
Day 15: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. Wedrive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve Day 25: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Keepyour on our way to the Colca Canyon. We stop for a hot eyes peeled for wildlife like the giant otter, before it’s back to springs swim before a night at our rustic lodge. (B, L, D) the city. Hotel (B, L, D) ContikiSpecial Stay Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip See wild vicuña Day 26: Puerto Maldonado to Lima. Your trip ends on See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve arrival in Lima, where it’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your mates. (B) See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes Pleasenote: Do not book departing flights before 9:00pm. Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip
Day 18: Puno to Cusco. First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins. See the Inca walls in Raqchi & Day 7: Guayaquil to Isabela Island. Todaywe fly then the ancient Incan Empire, Cusco. Hotel (B) to the Galapagos Islands. Before arriving in Puerto Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani Ayora we’ll check out the island’s old lava tunnels Seethe Temple of Wiracocha & see the incredible giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Later, get out on the water as we head off Day 19: Cusco. Experience Cusco on a guided to Isabela Island to relax for two nights. Hotel (B,D ) walking tour, then the afternoon is yours. Explore Inca buildings, or try local food or adrenaline See famous Galapagos giant tortoises activities. Hotel (B, D) Visit lava tunnels Boat ride to Isabela Island Citywalking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Day 8: Isabela Island. This morning we’ll kayak Pedro Market with sea lions & snorkel with colourful fish (keep your eyes peeled for turtles!). This afternoon we’ll Day 20: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Todaywe explore visit the Wall of Tears – you might even see some the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac baby tortoises along the way! Later relax on the ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s beach & take in this amazing place. Hotel (B, L) oldest towns. Hotel (B) Wildlifekayaking adventure Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of Visitthe Wall of Tears the Pisac ruins norkelling S experience Try some local Chicha de Jora Day 9: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island. Day 21: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Relax this morning before we take off to Santa Cruz Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking Island. This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay for a to rafting there’s loads on offer, before we take the stroll along the beach & a swim. Hotel (B) train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B) VisitTortuga Bay
• • •
Day 22: Aguas Calientes to Cusco. Wake early & enter Machu Picchu for sunrise. Learn more about Machu Picchu on a tour, then explore. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar
yDa 21: Inca Trail Trek. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the Trail to our highlight Machu Picchu! Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloud forest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our Local Guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.22-23 for more info. Code: QULIT
TRAVELLING EARLY? Travelling between 17th Aug 2015 & 1st Feb 2016? The below trips (QULI/QULIT 2015/16) feature a slightly modified itinerary spending 1 night in Tena & 2 nights in Guayaquil. See below for start & end times & visit contiki.com/galapagos-andes for full details.
Code: QULI/QULIT2015/16 Start Quito
Finish Lima
Trip Trip plus Start only Inca Trail Quito US$ pp* US$ pp*
Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan
6745 6745 6745 6745 6745
2015 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
17 14 12 9 7 ●
Finish Lima
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
Jan 29 Feb 26
6745 6745
2016 11 9 6 4 1
6945 6945 6945 6945 6945
Jan 4 Feb 1
6945 NA
Single room supplement add US$1069. ● Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Puerto Maldonado.
Code: QULI/QULIT2016/17 Start Quito
Finish Lima
Trip Trip plus Start only Inca Trail Quito US$ pp* US$ pp*
Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
6785 6785 6785 6785 6785 6785 6785 6785
29 28 25 23 20 18 15 12
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
2016
2016 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
Finish Lima
25 22 20 17 15 12 9 7
6985 6985 6985 6985 6985 6985 6985 6985
Oct 10 Nov 4 Nov 7 Dec 2 Dec 12 ■ Jan 6
6785 6785 6785
6985 6985 6985
2017 Jan 2 Jan 30
6785 6785
6985 NA
Jan 27 Feb 24
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$1079. Start Quito 7:00am & end Lima approx. 5:00pm. Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration. Note: The Galapagos Islands have a compulsory US$100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park, a US$20 INGALA fee & a US$5 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival (subject to increase). Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations. ■ Trip spends Xmas in Arequipa & NYE in the Sacred Valley.
43
INCLUDED MEALS 25 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 12 dinners (D)
44
INCLUDED MEALS (TREKKING OPTION) 25 breakfasts (B), 7 lunches (L), 12 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 1 international & 5 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Go local at a salsa lesson • Evening river cruise & drinks • Galapagos BBQ feast at our favourite local spot • City tour of Arequipa visiting Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Rappelling(abseiling) & canyoning day trip M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata river or jungle canopy climb M SanCristobal Island guided biking adventure See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ GALAPAGOS-ANDES
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
33
MEXICO/BELIZE GUATEMALA
DISCOVERY PLUS
18 DAYS - FROM US$4819 PP*/US$268 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$419. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
CANCUN 3
MERIDA 1 YUCATÁN
Playa del Carmen
GULF OF MEXICO QUINTANA ROO
MEXICO
1 MEXICO CITY Guatemalan Rainforest
PUEBLA
Belize City
1
Oaxaca 2 Monte Alban
Mitla
SAN CRISTOBAL 2
OAXACA
TEHUANTEPEC 1
Flores BELIZE CHIAPAS
Chiapas Comitan
PANAJACHEL 1 8 World Heritage sites visited
CAYE CAULKER
1 SANTA ELENA GUATEMALA
Lago Atitlan PACIFIC OCEAN
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane
2 ANTIGUA
2 CAYE CAULKER
LATIN LEGENDS
SNAPSHOT
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING
Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 16 nights in twin-share hotels
Day 1: Arrive Mexico City. Meet up with your Contiki Team & start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Afterwards, the day is yours to jump into the city’s high energy & explore its sidewalk cafés, bazaars, boutiques & museums. Hotel (D) Guidedtour of Teotihuacan
•
Day 2: Mexico City to Merida. Leave behind the buzz of Mexico City & fly to the beautiful white-stone city of Merida. Tour the city’s gorgeous colonial buildings & Government Palace before indulging in a mouthwatering Yucatecan meal. Hotel (B, D) Walking tour of Merida’s sights Horse & carriage ride
• •
Day 3: Merida to Cancun via Chichen Itza. Immerse yourself in Mayan history on a guided tour at Chichen Itza – the country’s spectacular ancient Mayan city. This afternoon we arrive in legendary Cancun with its endless shopping, nightlife & outdoor hub. Hotel (B) Guided tour of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza Swim in a cenote (sink hole)
• •
Day 4: Cancun & Playa del Carmen. We’lltake a day trip to the beach playground of Playa del Carmen. Take a stroll along the Quinta Avenida & the stunning beach while enjoying the friendly local hospitality. Fill your day with everything from snorkelling the clear blue waters, hanging out in open-air cafés & restaurants, stopping for a beer or two with the locals, or people watching. You can even take a ferry across to the island of Cozumel before heading back to Cancun. Hotel (B) VisitPlaya del Carmen
•
Day 5: Cancun. Soak up all the Cancun action you want today – swim through a jungle lagoon, snorkel, or take a day trip to beautiful Isla Mujeres for some delicious seafood & sightseeing. Tonight, party in great bars & dance clubs ‘til the sun comes up. Hotel (B, D) M Snorkelling & zipline adventure Day 6: Cancun to Caye Caulker. AdiosMexico, but we’ll be back! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto Belize. We’ll shore up on this Caribbean island, where the motto is “go slow.” Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife! Hotel (B, D) Day 7: Caye Caulker. The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split” where sipping & sunbathing is the scene! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks &music. Hotel (B) Sunsetboat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef
•
Day 8: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest. Next up is Guatemala’s Peten via Belize City! On arrival at our awesome Jungle Lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines… why not! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest. (B, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Stay in Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining experience
•
Day 9: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores). Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area & explore the magnificent jungle ruins, before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B ) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park
•
Day 10: Santa Elena to Antigua. Fromthe relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Skip the queues & head straight for the unique beauty & relaxed vibe of World Heritage Antigua. Experience the historic & beautiful town, with its rooftop flowerbeds, horse drawn carriages & cobblestones. Hotel (B,D) Sightseeingtour of colonial Antigua
•
Day 11: Antigua. With the day all yours, see the sights & tick those boxes. Adventure seekers can hike a volcano or ride mountain bikes. Or if you want to relax you could try making local native chocolates or shop for traditional textiles. Hotel (B) M Hikethe Pacaya volcano Day 12: Antigua to Panajachel. We’lltake a private boat to a lakeside Mayan community & meet local artisans who’ll teach us to make yummy tortillas by hand. Afterwards, relax on a hammock & enjoy the views. Hotel (B) Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlan & learn to make tortillas
•
Day 13: Panajachel to San Cristobal de las Casas. We’ll make our way through small Mayan communities of Guatemala’s highlands before we reach the beautiful & rugged territory of Chiapas. Next on the list, the evergreens & the cool cultural capital of San Cristobal de las Casas via Comitan! Hotel (B) Visit the charming town of Comitan
•
Day 14: San Cristobal de las Casas. Adventurers can try horseback riding or mountain biking this morning, then we’ll visit the Mayan hillside communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan. Tonight, try some traditional Tamales Chiapanecos before hitting the town. Get festive! Hotel (B, D) Enter a sacred highland temple to experience ancient traditions in Chiapas M Horseback ride the evergreen highlands of Mexico
•
Code: MXMC2015/16/17 Start Mexico City
Finish Mexico City
Aug 29 Sep 15 Oct 24 Nov 10 Dec 12 ● Dec 29 23 5 19 23 28 18 2
Total Cost US$ pp*
Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul
9 22 5 10 14 5 19
4819 4819 4819 4819 4819 4819 4819
Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
16 Aug 6 Aug 27 Sep 24 Oct 22 Nov 19 Dec 10 ■ Dec 24 ▲ Jan
2 23 13 11 8 6 27 10
4819 4819 4819 4819 4819 4819 4819 4819
2017 Jan 21 Feb 18
Feb 7 Mar 7
4819 4819
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement add US$1129. Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Mexico City approx. 5:00pm.
● Trip spends Xmas in San Cristobal de las Casas. ■ Trip spends Xmas in Oaxaca. ▲ Trip spends Xmas in Merida & NYE in Tikal.
Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): entering Mexico US$22, leaving Mexico for Belize US$32.50, departing Belize US$20, entering & departing Guatemala US$1.50. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
CHICHEN ITZA
Day 16: Tehuantepec to Oaxaca. First up we head to World Heritage Oaxaca then it’s onto Matatlan. Later we head to Mitla, where sacred rites were once carried out among the still intact geometrical stonework. We’ll discover colonial architecture this afternoon, stopping at the local market for some delicious Chapulines…yum! Hotel (B) Visit the Zapotec religious centre Mitla Taste fiery mescal & sample spicy chapulines in the valley of Oaxaca Locally guided walking tour of colonial Oaxaca
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
26
INCLUDED MEALS
17 breakfasts (B), 9 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager plus Local Guides in some destinations • 2 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Tour the pyramids of Teotihuacan • Relax & take in the sights on a horse-drawn carriage ride in Merida • Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza • Sunsetboat cruise • Visita Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlan • Tastefiery mescal, sample spicy chapulines & learn to make tortillas • Enter a sacred highland temple in Chiapas Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS
• • •
M Mayanculture adventure complete with ziplining, rappelling, canoeing & lunch! M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean M Ridein a horse-drawn carriage through World Heritage Antigua M Hikea volcano (availability subject to lava flow) M Mountainbike the cloud forests of San Cristobal See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
Day 17: Monte Alban. Discoverlocal museums & shops before we visit Monte Alban, built on a mountaintop. Famous for its traditional crafts, we will visit a local workshop before our last night… Salud! Hotel (B, D) Visit the UNESCO site Monte Alban & discover a local workshop
•
•
Please note: Do not book departing flights before 9:00pm.
4819 4819 4819
2016 Jan Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul
Finish Mexico City
2016
2015
Day 15: San Cristobal de las Casas to Tehuantepec. After a morning relaxing, we’ll descend from the forested hills into the beautiful coastal plains of Tehuantepec, where you’ll visit the city square. This evening, chill by the pool before a delicious local meal. Hotel (B, D)
Day 18: Oaxaca to Mexico City. Thismorning we travel to the centre of the ancient Aztec universe. We’ll take a panoramic tour of World Heritage Puebla, then head to Cholula. Choose to enjoy a relaxed lunch in the small town plaza or enter the ruins & explore the ancient tunnels (entrance fee not included). This evening, we arrive in Mexico City, where you can say adios to your amigos! (B) Visit Cholula where the church Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios stands above the buried pyramid Tlachihualtepetl
Total Start Cost Mexico US$ pp* City
17
ANTIGUA
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ LATIN-LEGENDS
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
35
PERU/ARGENTINA BRAZIL
DISCOVERY PLUS
18 DAYS - FROM US$5095 PP*/US$284 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$355. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
BRAZIL PERU
AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu)
1 Lima
Rainforest
AMAZON LODGE 1
1
INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo Andes
CUSCO 3
PUERTO MALDONADO 1
1 SACRED VALLEY Bolivia
Coast
3 RIO DE JANEIRO Paraguay
2 IGUASSU FALLS
ARGENTINA BRAZIL
5 World Heritage sites visited
IPANEMA BEACH, RIO
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe
Uruguay
4 BUENOS AIRES
THE EXPLORER
SNAPSHOT
17
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Cusco. As the modern-day starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore this ancient city on foot, then the afternoon’s yours. Head out & explore – from Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops to boutiques & delicious cuisine & adrenaline activities, there’s loads to experience. Hotel (D) Citywalking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral & Koricancha
• •
Day 2: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Todaywe explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the Pisac ruins Try some local Chicha de Jora
• •
Day 3: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads on offer, before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B) Da y 3: Inca Trail Trek. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the Trail to our highlight Machu Picchu! Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloud forest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our Local Guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.22-23 for more info. Code: CURJT Day 4: Machu Picchu to Cusco. Be among the first to enter Machu Picchu for sunrise. Learn more as you tour with your guide then explore in your own time before returning to base. Hotel (B) Day 5: Cusco. Why not start the day mountain biking & rafting? Then get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B, D) Day 6: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then chill to the sound of the jungle. (B, L, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Visit the Infierno community PuertoMaldonado city tour Junglecanopy hike
• • •
Day 7: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like the giant otter, before it’s back to the city. Hotel (B, L, D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip
•
Day 8: Puerto Maldonado to Lima. Todayit’s back to Lima for our last day in Peru. Next up: red wine, steak & tango in Argentina! Hotel (B) Day 9: Lima to Buenos Aires. Today we board our flight to Argentina - it’s hola Buenos Aires! Hotel (B) IGUASSU FALLS
Day 10: Buenos Aires. This morning get out & experience this iconic city on a bike tour to spots like Puerto Madero & La Boca. Tonight, get ready to tango with the locals as you learn all the tricks at a dance lesson & show. Hotel (B, D) City sights bike tour – see the neighbourhoods of La Boca & Puerto Madero Tango lesson, show & dinner
• •
Days 11 - 12: Buenos Aires. We’ll start day 2 with a coach tour to see the rest of the city & then you can experience BA your way. Get into the cuisine of Argentina on our culinary experience: try empanadas or the ubiquitous Argentine steak & learn to make the traditional sweet – alfahoras. You might catch a football game, drink wine at a polo match or perhaps learn to play yourself, hit the shops or pay a visit to the historic Café Tortoni for a café con leche & a spot of people watching. Hotel (B)( B) City tour Palermo Chico & Palermo Soho, Recoleta M Argentine culinary experience
•
Day 13: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls. Todaywe fly to Puerto Iguassu then travel to the Brazilian side to see the 275 individual waterfalls. You could take a heli-flight for a different angle, or try your luck at spotting macaws & toucans. Hotel (B) Flight& transfers VisitIguassu Falls
• •
Day 14: Iguassu Falls We’ll . cross back into Argentina & visit their side of the Falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat. The day is all yours! Try a speed boat ride to feel the spray of the Falls, or go for a swim the hotel. Tonight, try delicious Brazilian BBQ. Hotel (B, D) VisitIguassu Falls Tastedelicious Brazilian BBQ SeeDevil’s Throat
• • •
Day 15: Iguassu Falls to Rio. Home to the world’s largest carnival celebration, Copacabana Beach & the Brazilian bikini, get ready for good times in Rio. Hotel (B, D) Day 16: Rio de Janeiro. This morning we’ll visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue & after we’ll chill on a boat ride around Guanabara Bay with great views of Sugarloaf – take a swim, have a drink & enjoy a BBQ. Hotel (B, L) Entry to Christ the Redeemer for amazing city views M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain
•
Day 17: Rio de Janeiro. Today is yours to explore. Try hang gliding or grab your towel, sunnies & iPod & chill on Rio’s famous Ipanema Beach. Tonight, we head out for our last night in this amazing city! Hotel (B) Day 18: Depart Rio de Janeiro. We’ll give you a unique insiders-only experience of visiting a favela & seeing the contrast of how some cariocas live. Our adventure ends after our favela tour, when it’s time to say ‘Tchau’ (goodbye) to your travel mates. (B) Loca lly guided favela tour
•
Unique Special Stay: 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge &16 nights in twin-share hotels
TRAVELLING EARLY? Travelling between 28th Aug 2015 & 19th Feb 2016? The below trips (CURJ/CURJT 2015/16) are 19 days long & feature a slightly modified itinerary spending 3 nights in Buenos Aires & 2 nights in Buzios. See below for start & end times & visit contiki.com/southam-explorer for full details.
Code: CURJ/CURJT2015/16 Start Cusco
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec
5155 5155 5155 5155 5155 5155 5155 5155 5155 5155
2015 Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov
28 4 18 2 16 23 30 13 20 27
Start Cusco
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
2015 15 22 6 20 3 10 17 1 8 15
5355 5355 5355 5355 5355 5355 5355 5355 5355 5355
Dec 11 ● Dec 29 Dec 25 ■ Jan 12
5155 5155
5355 5355
2016 Jan 1 Jan 8 Jan 15 Jan 22 Feb 5 Feb 19
5155 5155 5155 5155 5155 5155
5355 5355 5355 5355 NA NA
Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Mar
19 26 2 9 23 8
Single room supplement add US$1215. ● Trip spends Xmas in Buzios. ■ Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & NYE in Puerto Maldonado.
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
2016 Mar Apr Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
18 Apr 1 Apr 15 May 29 May 13 May 27 Jun 10 Jun 24 Jul 8 Jul 5 ▼ Aug 19 Sep 2 Sep 16 Oct
Start Cusco
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
2016 4 18 2 16 30 13 27 11 25 22 5 19 3
5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095
5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295
Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
30 Oct 14 Oct 28 Nov 11 Nov 25 Dec 9 ▲ Dec 30 ◆ Jan
2017 Jan 13 Jan 20 Feb 3 Feb 17
Jan Feb Feb Mar
17 31 14 28 12 26 16
5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095 5095
5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295 5295
30 6 20 6
5095 5095 5095 5095
5295 5295 NA NA
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$1159. Start Cusco 8:00am & end Rio 11:00am. Please note: Included flight times are subject to alteration. Please note: The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February. ▼ Trip is in Rio during Olympics 2016. ▲ Trip spends Xmas in Rio. ◆ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Sacred Valley.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66. Explore More: Have a few more days? Check out The Adventurer & start the trip in Lima & end in Rio.
INCLUDED MEALS 17 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
28
INCLUDED MEALS (TREKKING OPTION) 17 breakfasts (B), 4 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS
Code: CURJ/CURJT2016/17 Start Cusco
27
• An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 1 international & 4 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • BBQfeast in Iguassu • Guided favela tour & city tour in Rio • Afternoon boat cruise in Rio • City sight seeing bike tour in Buenos Aires • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Kayaking trip on the Tambopata River M Polomatch experience in Buenos Aires See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
LOCAL CULTURE The passion for football (soccer) in Brazil is like no other, make sure you have time to fit a game in & get into the frenzy! VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ SOUTHAM-EXPLORER
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
37
PERU/ARGENTINA BRAZIL
DISCOVERY PLUS
24 DAYS - FROM US$6175 PP*/US$258 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$440. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
BRAZIL PERU
AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu)
2 Lima
Rainforest
AMAZON PUERTO LODGE 1 MALDONADO 1
1
INCA TRAIL
Ollantaytambo Andes
1 SACRED VALLEY
CUSCO 4
Coast
Chivay
COLCA CANYON 1
Bolivia
PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 2
1 AREQUIPA
RIO DE 3 JANEIRO Paraguay
2 IGUASSU FALLS
ARGENTINA BRAZIL
6 World Heritage sites visited
LA BOCA, BUENOS AIRES
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe
Uruguay
4 BUENOS AIRES
THE ADVENTURER
SNAPSHOT
23
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION Unique Special Stays: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge, 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge &21 nights in twin-share hotels
38
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Lima. Meet your Contiki Team & group this morning before checking out the city sights. Made up of 43 districts with their own flair, with a free afternoon, get out & explore! Hotel (D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores
•
Day 2: Lima to Arequipa. We fly to the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour. Hotel (B) Citywalking tour Visit Santa Catalina Convent & Plaza de Armas
Day 10: Machu Picchu to Cusco. Beamong the first to enter Machu Picchu for sunrise. Learn more as you tour with your guide then explore in your own time before returning to base. Hotel (B) Day 11: Cusco. Why not start the day mountain biking & rafting? Then get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B, D)
Day 12: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then chill to the sound of the jungle. (B, L, D) Day 3: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. Wedrive Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Visit the Infierno community through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve PuertoMaldonado city tour on our way to the Colca Canyon. We stop for a hot Junglecanopy hike springs swim before a night at our rustic lodge. (B, L, D) Day 13: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. ContikiSpecial Stay See wild vicuña Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like the giant See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National otter, before it’s back to the city. Hotel (B, L, D) Reserve Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu Day 14: Puerto Maldonado to Lima. Todayit’s volcanoes back to Lima for our last day in Peru. Next up: red Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip wine, steak & tango in Argentina! Hotel (B) Day 4: Colca Canyon to Puno. First up we’ll try Day 15: Lima to Buenos Aires. Todaywe board & spot the Andean condor. Later, experience the our flight to Argentina – it’s hola Buenos Aires! Andes along the way to Puno. Hotel (B) Hotel (B) VisitMaca Pueblo Day 16: Buenos Aires. This morning get out & Seethe massive Colca Canyon experience this iconic city on a bike tour to spots VisitCruz del Condor like Puerto Madero & La Boca. Tonight, get ready to Day 5: Puno. Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising tango with the locals as you learn all the tricks at a Lake Titicaca to the island of Taquile & the floating dance lesson & show. Hotel (B, D) Uros Islands. Meet locals & see their handmade City sights bike tour – see the neighbourhoods La crafts. Hotel (B, L, D) Boca & Puerto Madero Ride on a triciclo! Tango lesson, show & dinner Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca Days 17 - 18: Buenos Aires. We’ll start day 2 Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities with a coach tour to see the rest of the city & then Day 6: Puno to Cusco. First up is Pukara & its you can experience BA your way. Get into the ancient Inca ruins. See the Inca walls in Raqchi & cuisine of Argentina on our culinary experience: then the ancient Incan empire, Cusco. Hotel (B) try empanadas or the ubiquitous Argentine steak Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani & learn to make the traditional sweet – alfahoras. Seethe Temple of Wiracocha You might catch a football game, drink wine at a polo match or perhaps learn to play yourself: hit Day 7: Cusco. Experience Cusco on a guided the shops or pay a visit to the historic Café Tortoni walking tour then the afternoon is yours. Explore for a café con leche & a spot of people watching. Inca buildings, or try local food or adrenaline Hotel (B)( B) activities. Hotel (B, D) City tour Palermo Chico & Palermo Soho, Citywalking tour Recoleta Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San M Argentine culinary experience Pedro Market
• •
• • •
• • • •
•
• • •
• •
• • • • • • •
•
Day 8: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Todaywe explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & Pisac ruins Try some local Chicha de Jora
Day 19: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls. Todaywe fly to Puerto Iguassu then travel to the Brazilian side to see the 275 individual waterfalls. You could take a heli-flight for a different angle, or try your luck at spotting macaws & toucans. Hotel (B) Flight& transfers VisitIguassu Falls
• •
Day 9: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads on offer, before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B) Da y 9: Inca Trail Trek. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the Trail to our highlight Machu Picchu! Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloud forest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our Local Guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.22-23 for more info. Code: LIRJT
• •
Day 20: Iguassu Falls. We’ll cross back into Argentina & visit their side of the Falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat. The day is all yours! Try a speed boat ride to feel the spray of the Falls, or go for a swim the hotel. Tonight, try delicious Brazilian BBQ. Hotel (B, D) VisitIguassu Falls Tastedelicious Brazilian BBQ SeeDevil’s Throat
• • •
Day 21: Iguassu Falls to Rio. Home to the world’s largest carnival celebration, Copacabana Beach & the Brazilian bikini, get ready for good times in Rio. Hotel (B, D) Day 22: Rio de Janeiro. This morning we’ll visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue & after we’ll chill on a boat ride around Guanabara Bay with great views of Sugarloaf – take a swim, have a drink & enjoy a BBQ. Hotel (B, L)
the Redeemer for amazing city views • Entry tocarChrist M Cable ride up Sugarloaf Mountain
INCLUDED MEALS 23 breakfasts (B), 5 lunches (L), 10 dinners (D)
Day 23: Rio de Janeiro. Today is yours to explore. Try hang gliding or grab your towel, sunnies & iPod & chill on Rio’s famous Ipanema Beach. Tonight, we head out for our last night in this amazing city! Hotel (B) Day 24: Depart Rio de Janeiro. We’ll give you a unique insiders-only experience of visiting a favela & seeing the contrast of how some cariocas live. Our adventure ends after our favela tour, when it’s time to say ‘Tchau’ (goodbye) to your travel mates. (B) Loca lly guided favela tour
•
39
INCLUDED MEALS (TREKKING OPTION) 23 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 10 dinners (D)
TRAVELLING EARLY? Travelling between 22nd Aug 2015 & 13th Feb 2016? The below trips (LIRJ/LIRJT 2015/16) are 25 days long & feature a slightly modified itinerary spending 3 nights in Buenos Aires & 2 nights in Buzios. See below for start & end times & visit contiki.com/southam-adventurer for full details.
Code: LIRJ/LIRJT2015/16 Start Lima
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus Start only Inca Trail Lima US$ pp* US$ pp*
Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec
6229 6229 6229 6229 6229 6229 6229 6229 6229 6229
2015 Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov
22 29 12 26 10 17 24 7 14 21
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
2015 15 22 6 20 3 10 17 1 8 15
6429 6429 6429 6429 6429 6429 6429 6429 6429 6429
Dec 5 ● Dec 29 Dec 19 ■ Jan 12 Dec 26 ▲ Jan 19
6229 6229 6229
6429 6429 6429
2016 Jan 2 Jan 9 Jan 16 Jan 30 Feb 13
6229 6229 6229 6229 6229
6429 6429 6429 NA NA
Jan Feb Feb Feb Mar
26 2 9 23 8
Single room supplement add US$1395. ● Trip spends Xmas in Buzios. ■ Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & New Year’s Eve in Puerto Maldonado. ▲ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Cusco.
Code: LIRJ/LIRJT2016/17 Start Lima
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus Start only Inca Trail Lima US$ pp* US$ pp*
2016 Mar Mar Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep
12 Apr 26 Apr 9 May 23 May 7 May 21 Jun 4 Jun 18 Jul 2 Jul 30 ▼ Aug 13 Sep 27 Sep 10 Oct
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
2016 4 18 2 16 30 13 27 11 25 22 5 19 3
6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175
6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375
Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
24 Oct 8 Oct 22 Nov 5 Nov 19 Dec 3 ▲ Dec 24 ◆ Jan
2017 Jan 7 Jan 14 Jan 28 Feb 11
Jan Feb Feb Mar
17 31 14 28 12 26 16
6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175 6175
6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375 6375
30 6 20 6
6175 6175 6175 6175
6375 6375 NA NA
* Prices shown are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$1339. LIRJ/LIRJT: Start Lima 8:00am & end Rio 11:00am. Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration. Note: The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February. ▼ Trip is in Rio during Olympics 2016. ▲ Trip spends Xmas in Rio. ◆ Trip spends Xmas in Arequipa & New Year’s Eve in
Sacred Valley. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 1 international & 5 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • City tour of Arequipa visiting the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • BBQfeast in Iguassu • City sight seeing bike tour in Buenos Aires • Citytour of Rio • Locally guided Rio favela tour • Afternoon boat cruise in Rio • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Mountainbiking adventure M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain M Polo experience See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ SOUTHAM-ADVENTURER
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
39
MEXICO/BELIZE GUATEMALA
DISCOVERY PLUS
25 DAYS - FROM US$5989 PP*/US$240 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$535. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
CANCUN 3
JALISCO
Puerto 3 Vallarta
MERIDA 1
GUANAJUATO Tequila 1 1 guanajuato 1 Guadalajara MEXICO
YUCATÁN
Playa del Carmen
GULF OF MEXICO QUINTANA ROO
2 MEXICO CITY MICHOACÁN
Guatemalan Rainforest
PUEBLA
Belize City
1
Oaxaca 2 Monte Alban
Mitla
OAXACA
TEHUANTEPEC 1
BELIZE
10 World Heritage sites visited
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane
SAN CRISTOBAL 2
Flores BELIZE
CHIPAS
Chiapas
1 SANTA ELENA
Comitan
PANAJACHEL 1
GUATEMALA
Lago Atitlan PACIFIC OCEAN
2 ANTIGUA
2 CAYE CAULKER
MAYAN HEAT
SNAPSHOT
24
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Mexico City to Guanajuato. Meetup with your Contiki Team & drive to the beautiful colonial city of Guanajuato. This afternoon explore the winding streets & subterranean passageways of this UNESCO World Heritage city. View the romantic “Callejon de Beso” & hear the legend about the two lovers. Later, see the cast-iron-& glass Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel where you’ll have a chance to shop for local sweet treats. Hotel (D) Walking tour Guanajuato Visit the Hidalgo Market M Visit the Mummy museum
• •
Day 2: Guanajuato to Guadalajara. Todaywe head to the city the locals call the “Pearl of the West”, Guadalajara! Take a closer look at buildings & plazas filled with great murals & history. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic centre, where you’ll visit the four main squares, inside city hall & the magnificent cathedral. Tonight we hit the town & take in a live Mariachi show, known as the emblematic sound of Mexico. Hotel (B) Guidedtour of Guadalajara Listen to a live Mariachi band
• •
Day 3: Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta. We’ll wind through the mountain areas of Jalisco on our way to the beach town of Puerto Vallarta, taking in views of the Ceboruco volcano, which last erupted over 100 years ago. In the early afternoon, we’ll hit the beach & the local scene in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy a drink on the sand or relax beachside before dinner at a favorite spot. Hotel (B, D) Seethe Ceboruco volcano Guidedtour of Puerto Vallarta
• •
Day 4: Puerto Vallarta. The day is all yours to explore the beachside restaurants & markets or take on the day ziplining through the jungle. Soak up the sun & relax under a cool beach umbrella. Hotel (B) M Extremezipline adventure Day 5: Puerto Vallarta. This morning maybe give surfing a go in a hidden beach along the bay. You could also opt to explore the Marietas Islands for wildlife on an eco-tour. The islands, made famous by oceanographer Jacques Cousteau provide the perfect environment for snorkelling & kayaking. Tonight maybe take in a performance over dinner on an optional boat ride in the bay. Hotel (B) M Surfingsafari Day 6: Puerto Vallarta to Tequila. Today it is all about tequila where we will not only have the chance to drink it but learn more about it too. We head to the picturesque town of Tequila where we will learn all about the tequila making process from plant to barrel, visit a tequila factory & of course, indulge in a tequila tasting. Later we’ll enjoy a local meal. Hotel (B, D) Tequiladistillery visit & tasting
•
Day 7: Tequila to Mexico City. Return to Mexico City through the charming countryside of the colonial heartland. We’ll make our way through agricultural districts that lead to bustling Mexico City, the largest city the country & the oldest capital city in North America. Hotel (B ) Day 8: Mexico City. Start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Afterwards, get back to Mexico City & visit the unique floating gardens & markets of Xochimilco. Then, it’s off through “The City of Palaces” to see the ancient ruins & colonial-influenced, yet modern, architecture. Hotel (B, D) Guidedtour of Teotihuacan Float through the canals of Xochimilco on a Trajinera Visit Coyoacan, birthplace of Frida Kahlo
• • •
Day 9: Mexico City to Merida. Leave behind the buzz of Mexico City & fly to the beautiful white-stone city of Mérida. Tour the city’s gorgeous colonial buildings & Government Palace before indulging in a mouthwatering Yucatecan meal. Hotel (B, D) W alking tour of Mérida’s sights
•
Day 10: Merida to Cancun via Chichen Itza. Immerse yourself in Mayan history on a guided tour at Chichen Itza – the country’s spectacular ancient Mayan city. This afternoon we arrive in legendary Cancun with its endless shopping, nightlife & outdoor hub. Hotel (B) Guided tour of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza Swim in a cenote (sink hole)
• •
Day 11: Cancun & Playa del Carmen. We’lltake a day trip to the beach playground of Playa del Carmen. Take a stroll along Quinta Avenida & the stunning beach while enjoying the friendly local hospitality. Fill your day with everything from snorkelling the clear blue waters, hanging out in open-air cafés & restaurants, stopping for a beer or two with the locals, or people watching. You can even take a ferry across to the island of Cozumel before heading back to Cancun. Hotel (B) VisitPlaya del Carmen
•
Day 12: Cancun. Soak up all the Cancun action you want today – swim through a jungle lagoon, snorkel, or take a day trip to beautiful Isla Mujeres for some delicious seafood & sightseeing. Then for your last night, party in great bars & dance clubs ‘til the sun comes up. Hotel (B, D) Day 13: Cancun to Caye Caulker. AdiosMexico, but we’ll be back! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto Belize. We’ll shore up on this Caribbean island, where the motto is “go slow.” Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife! Hotel (B, D) Experiencethe Belize Barrier Reef
Day 20: Panajachel to San Cristobal de las Casas. We’ll make our way through small Mayan communities of Guatemala’s highlands before we reach the beautiful & rugged territory of Chiapas. Next on the list, the evergreens & cool cultural capital of San Cristobal de las Casas via Comitan! Hotel (B) Visit the cute town of Comitan
•
Day 21: San Cristobal de las Casas. Adventurerscould try horseback riding or mountain biking this morning, then we’ll visit the Mayan hillside communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan. Tonight try some traditional ‘tamales chiapanecos’ before hitting the town. Get festive! Hotel (B, D) Enter a sacred highland temple to experience ancient traditions in Chiapas
•
Day 22: San Cristobal de las Casas to Tehuantepec. Aftera morning relaxing, we’ll descend from the forested hills into the beautiful coastal plains of Tehuantepec, where you’ll visit the city square. This evening, chill by the pool before a delicious local meal. Hotel (B, D) Day 23: Tehuantepec to Oaxaca. First up we head to World Heritage Oaxaca then it’s onto Matatlan. Later we head to Mitla, where sacred rites were once carried out among the still intact geometrical stonework. We’ll see colonial architecture this evening, stopping at the local market for some delicious chapulines… yum! Hotel (B) Visit the Zapotec religious centre Mitla Taste fiery mescal & sample spicy chapulines in the valley of Oaxaca Locally guided walking tour of colonial Oaxaca
• • •
•
Day 24: Monte Alban. Discover local museums & shops before we visit Monte Alban, built on a mountain-top. Famous for its traditional crafts, we will visit a local workshop before our last night…Salud! Hotel (B, D) Visit the UNESCO site Monte Alban & discover a local workshop
•
Day 25: Oaxaca to Mexico City. This morning we travel to the centre of the ancient Aztec universe. We’ll take a panoramic tour of World Heritage Puebla, then head to Cholula. Choose to enjoy a relaxed lunch in the small town plaza or enter the ruins & explore the ancient tunnels (entrance fee not included). This evening, we arrive in Mexico City, where you can say ‘adios’ to your amigos! (B) Visit Cholula where the church, Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, stands above the buried pyramid Tlachihualtepet
Day 14: Caye Caulker. The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split” where sipping & sunbathing is the scene! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunsetboat cruise Day 15: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest. Next up, Guatemala’s El Petén region via Belize City! On arrival at our awesome jungle lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines… why not! Explore the local ruins then drift off to sleep to the sounds of the forest. (B, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Stay in Tikal National Park
•
Day 16: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores). Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area & you could explore the magnificent jungle ruins, before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B) Day 17: Santa Elena to Antigua. Fromthe relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Skip the queues & head straight for the unique beauty & relaxed vibe of World Heritage Antigua. Experience the historic & beautiful town, with its rooftop flowerbeds, horse-drawn carriages & cobblestones. Hotel (B, D) Sightseeingtour of colonial Antigua
•
Day 18: Antigua. With the day all yours, see the sights & tick those boxes. Adventure seekers can hike a volcano or ride mountain bikes. Or if you want to relax you could try making local native chocolates or shop for traditional textiles. Hotel (B) Day 19: Antigua to Panajachel. We’lltake a private boat to a lakeside Mayan community & meet local artisans who’ll teach us to make yummy tortillas by hand. Afterwards, relax on a hammock & take in beautiful lake views! Hotel (B) Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán & learn to make tortillas
•
•
•
Please note: Do not book departing flights before 9:00pm.
Code: MCMC2015/16/17 Start Mexico City
Finish Mexico City
Total Start Cost Mexico US$ pp* City
Finish Mexico City
Total Cost US$ pp*
2016
2015 Aug 22 Sep 15 Oct 17 Nov 10 Dec 5 ● Dec 29
5989 5989 5989
2016 Jan 16 Feb 27 Mar 12 Apr 16 May 21 Jun 11 Jun 25
5989 5989 5989 5989 5989 5989 5989
Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul
9 22 5 10 14 5 19
Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
9 Aug 30 Aug 20 Sep 17 Oct 15 Nov 12 Dec 3 ■ Dec 17 ▲ Jan
2017 Jan 14 Feb 11
2 23 13 11 8 6 27 10
Feb 7 Mar 7
5989 5989 5989 5989 5989 5989 5989 5989 5989 5989
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement add US$1675. Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Mexico City approx. 5:00pm.
● Trip spends Xmas in San Cristobal de las Casas. ■ Trip spends Xmas in Oaxaca. ▲ Trip spends Xmas in Merida & NYE in Tikal. Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): entering Mexico US$22, leaving Mexico for Belize US$32.50, departing Belize US$20, entering & departing Guatemala US$1.50.
Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 23 nights in twin-share hotels
36
INCLUDED MEALS
24 breakfasts (B), 12 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager plus Local Guides in some destinations • 2 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Cruise on a ‘Trajinera’ & discover Xochimilco • Tourthe Pyramids of Teotihuacan • Relax on a horse drawn carriage ride in Merida • Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza • Sunsetboat cruise • Visita Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlán • Tastefiery mescal, sample spicy chapulines & learn to make tortillas • Enter a sacred highland temple in Chiapas Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M MarietasEco-discovery M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean M Pirateof the bay M Ride in a horse drawn carriage through World Heritage Antigua M Hikea volcano (availability subject to lava flow) M Mountain bike the cloud forests of San Cristobal M Ridehorseback among the Maya See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ MAYAN-HEAT
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
41
MEXICO/BELIZE GUATEMALA
DISCOVERY PLUS
14 DAYS - FROM US$3639 PP*/US$260 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$335. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
CANCUN 1
QUINTANA ROO
MEXICO
Mexico City
GULF OF MEXICO
Guatemalan Rainforest
PUEBLA
Oaxaca 2 Monte Alban OAXACA
Mitla
TEHUANTEPEC 1
SAN CRISTOBAL 2
Flores BELIZE
1 SANTA ELENA
CHIAPAS
Chiapas Comitan
GUATEMALA
PANAJACHEL 1 PACIFIC OCEAN
CAYE CAULKER
Belize City
1
6 World Heritage sites visited
Lago Atitlan
2 ANTIGUA Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane
2 CAYE CAULKER
CENTRAL TRAIL
SNAPSHOT
13
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 12 nights in twin-share hotels
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Cancun. Touch down in Cancun, Mexico’s gateway to the Caribbean where sun, music & sights await! Meet your Contiki Team, then you can either stargaze from the beach, or get amongst the nightlife at Parque las Palapas. Hotel (D)
Day 11: San Cristobal de las Casas to Tehuantepec. After a morning relaxing, we’ll descend from the forested hills into the beautiful coastal plains of Tehuantepec, where you’ll visit the city square. This evening, chill by the pool before a delicious local meal. Hotel (B, D)
Day 2: Cancun to Caye Caulker. AdiosMexico, but we’ll be back! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto Belize. We’ll shore up on this Caribbean island, where the motto is “go slow.” Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife! Hotel (B, D)
Day 12: Tehuantepec to Oaxaca. First up we head to World Heritage Oaxaca then it’s onto Matatlan. Later we head to Mitla, where sacred rites were once carried out among the still intact geometrical stonework. We’ll discover colonial architecture this afternoon, stopping at the local market for some delicious chapulines…yum! Hotel (B) Visit the Zapotec religious centre Mitla Taste fiery mescal & sample spicy chapulines in the valley of Oaxaca Locally guided walking tour of colonial Oaxaca
Day 3: Caye Caulker. The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split” where sipping & sunbathing is the scene! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunsetboat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef
•
Day 4: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest. Next up is Guatemala’s Peten via Belize City! On arrival at our awesome Jungle Lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines… why not! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest. (B, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Stay in Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining experience
•
Day 5: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores). Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area & you could explore the magnificent jungle ruins, before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B ) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park
• • •
Start Cancun
Finish Mexico City
Total Start Cost Cancun US$ pp*
Sep 2 Sep 15 Oct 28 Nov 10 Dec 16 ● Dec 29
3639 3639 3639
2016 27 9 23 27 1 22 6
Total Cost US$ pp*
2016
2015
Jan Mar Mar Apr Jun Jun Jul
Finish Mexico City
Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul
9 22 5 10 14 5 19
3639 3639 3639 3639 3639 3639 3639
Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
20 Aug 10 Aug 31 Sep 28 Oct 26 Nov 23 Dec 14 ■ Dec 28 ▲ Jan
2 23 13 11 8 6 27 10
3639 3639 3639 3639 3639 3639 3639 3639
2017 Jan 25 Feb 22
Feb 7 Mar 7
3639 3639
Day 13: Monte Alban. Discoverlocal museums & shops before we visit Monte Alban, built on a mountaintop. Famous for its traditional crafts, we will visit a local workshop before our last night… Salud! Hotel (B, D) Visit the UNESCO site Monte Alban & discover a local workshop
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
Day 14: Oaxaca to Mexico City. Thismorning we travel to the centre of the ancient Aztec universe. We’ll take a panoramic tour of World Heritage Puebla, then head to Cholula. Choose to enjoy a relaxed lunch in the small town plaza or enter the ruins & explore the ancient tunnels (entrance fee not included). This evening, we arrive Mexico City, where you can say adios to your amigos! (B) Visit Cholula where the church Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios stands above the buried pyramid Tlachihualtepetl
■ Trip spends Xmas in Oaxaca.
•
•
Please note: Do not book departing flights before 9:00pm.
•
Day 6: Santa Elena to Antigua. Fromthe relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Skip the queues & head straight for the unique beauty & relaxed vibe of World Heritage Antigua. Experience the historic & beautiful town, with its rooftop flowerbeds, horse-drawn carriages & cobblestones. Hotel (B,D) Sightseeingtour of colonial Antigua
•
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$745. Start Cancun 5:00pm & end Mexico City approx. 5:00pm. ● Trip spends Xmas in San Cristobal de las Casas. ▲ Trip spends NYE in Tikal.
Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): entering Mexico US$22, leaving Mexico for Belize US$32.50, departing Belize US$20, entering & departing Guatemala US$1.50. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66. Explore More: Have a few more days? Check out our Latin Legends trip & start Mexico City & end the trip in Mexico City.
20
INCLUDED MEALS
13 breakfasts (B), 7 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager plus Local Guides in some destinations • 1 internal flight & transfer • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Sunsetboat cruise • Visita Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlan • Tastefiery mescal, sample spicy chapulines & learn to make tortillas • Enter a sacred highland temple in Chiapas Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS
Day 7: Antigua. With the day all yours, see the sights & tick those boxes. Adventure seekers can hike a volcano or ride mountain bikes. Or if you want to relax you could try making local native chocolates or shop for traditional textiles. Hotel (B) M Hikethe Pacaya volcano
M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean M Ridea horse-drawn carriage through World Heritage Antigua M Hikea volcano (availability subject to lava flow) M Mountainbike the cloud forests of San Cristobal See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
Day 8: Antigua to Panajachel. We’ll take a private boat to a lakeside Mayan community & meet local artisans who’ll teach us to make yummy tortillas by hand. Afterwards, relax on a hammock & enjoy the views. Hotel (B) Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlan & learn to make tortillas
•
Day 9: Panajachel to San Cristobal de las Casas. We’ll make our way through small Mayan communities of Guatemala’s highlands before we reach the beautiful & rugged territory of Chiapas. Next on the list, the evergreens & the cool cultural capital of San Cristobal de las Casas via Comitan! Hotel (B) Visit the charming town of Comitan
LOCAL CULTURE Thrill seekers this one is for you! Try ziplining in Guatemala & get your fix as you speed through the rainforest canopy for incredible views & heart racing fun!
•
Day 10: San Cristobal de las Casas. Adventurers can try horseback riding or mountain biking this morning, then we’ll visit the Mayan hillside communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan. Tonight, try some traditional tamales chiapanecos before hitting the town. Get festive! Hotel (B, D) Enter a sacred highland temple to experience ancient traditions in Chiapas M Horseback ride the evergreen highlands of Mexico
Code: CAMC2015/16/17
•
ANTIGUA
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ CENTRAL-TRAIL
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
43
CANCUN 3
MERIDA 1
Playa del Carmen
YUCATÁN
CHICHEN ITZA
GULF OF MEXICO QUINTANA ROO
MEXICO
1 MEXICO CITY
SNAPSHOT
DISCOVERY PLUS
10
Guatemalan Rainforest Flores
SOL SEEKER
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 9 nights in twin-share hotels
16
SAVE
2 CAYE CAULKER
BELIZE
1 SANTA ELENA GUATEMALA
6 World Heritage sites visited
11 DAYS - 3 COUNTRIES FROM US$2999 PP*/US$273 P/DAY*
INCLUDED MEALS
Belize City
1
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$235. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
10 breakfasts (B), 6 dinners (D)
1 ANTIGUA
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager plus Local Guides in some destinations • 2 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Teotihuacanpyramids tour • Take a horse drawn carriage ride in Merida • Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza • Sunsetboat cruise Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ SOL-SEEKER
Day 1: Arrive Mexico City. Meet up with your Contiki Team & start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Afterwards, the day is yours to jump into the city’s high energy & explore its sidewalk cafés, bazaars, boutiques & museums. Hotel (D) Guidedtour of Teotihuacan
•
Day 2: Mexico City to Merida. Leave behind the buzz of Mexico City & fly to the beautiful white stone-city of Merida. Tour the city’s gorgeous colonial buildings & Government Palace before indulging in a mouthwatering Yucatecan meal. Hotel (B, D) Walking tour of Merida’s sights Horse & carriage ride
• •
Day 3: Merida to Cancun via Chichen Itza. Immerse yourself in Mayan history on a guided tour at Chichen Itza – the country’s spectacular ancient Mayan city. This afternoon we arrive in legendary Cancun with its endless shopping, nightlife & outdoor hub. Hotel (B) Guided tour of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza Swim in a cenote (sink hole)
• •
Day 4: Cancun & Playa del Carmen. We’lltake a day trip to the beach playground of Playa del Carmen. Take a stroll along the Quinta Avenida & the stunning beach while enjoying the friendly local hospitality. Fill your day with everything from snorkelling the clear blue waters, hanging out in open-air cafés & restaurants, stopping for a beer with the locals, or people watching. You can even take a ferry across to the island of Cozumel before heading back to Cancun. Hotel (B) VisitPlaya del Carmen
•
Day 5: Cancun. Soak up all the Cancun action you want today – swim through a jungle lagoon, snorkel, or take a day trip to beautiful Isla Mujeres for some delicious seafood & sightseeing. Tonight, party in great bars & dance clubs ‘til the sun comes up. Hotel (B, D) M Snorkelling & zipline adventure
Day 6: Cancun to Caye Caulker. AdiosMexico, but we’ll be back! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto Belize. We’ll shore up on this Caribbean island, where the motto is “go slow.” Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife! Hotel (B, D) Day 7: Caye Caulker. The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split” where sipping & sunbathing is the scene! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunsetboat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef
Day 11: Depart Antigua. This morning it’s adios to your amigos. So say your goodbyes before heading home, or get out & do some more exploring in Antigua. (B)
Code: MCAN 2015/16/17 Start Mexico City
•
Day 8: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest. Next up is Guatemala’s Peten via Belize City! On arrival at our awesome Jungle Lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on ziplines… why not! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest. (B, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Stay in Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining experience
2016
Day 9: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores). Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area & you could explore the magnificent jungle ruins before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B ) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park
•
Day 10: Santa Elena to Antigua. Fromthe relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Skip the queues & head straight for the unique beauty & relaxed vibe of World Heritage Antigua. Experience the historic & beautiful town, with its rooftop flowerbeds, horse-drawn carriages & cobblestones. Hotel (B,D) Sightseeingtour of colonial Antigua
•
Total Start Cost Mexico US$ pp* City
Sep 8 Nov 3 Dec 22
2999 2999 2999
Jan Mar Mar Apr May Jun Jul
23 5 19 23 28 18 2
Feb Mar Mar May Jun Jun Jul
2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999
Finish Antigua
Total Cost US$ pp*
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Nov Dec Jan
26 16 6 4 1 29 20 3
2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999 2999
Jan 31 Feb 28
2999 2999
2016
2015 Aug 29 Oct 24 Dec 12
•
Finish Antigua
2 15 29 3 7 28 12
Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
16 6 27 24 22 19 10 24 ●
2017 Jan 21 Feb 18
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$785. Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Antigua 11:00am. Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): leaving Mexico for Belize US$32.50, departing Belize US$20, entering Guatemala US$1.50. ● Trip spends Xmas in Merida.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
RIO DE JANEIRO 3
LA BOCA, BUENOS AIRES
Paraguay
2 IGUASSU FALLS
BRAZIL
2 World Heritage sites visited ARGENTINA
1 or more nightstops Plane
Uruguay
BUENOS 3 AIRES
SNAPSHOT
8
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
DISCOVERY PLUS
8 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
ARGENTINA & BRAZIL EXPERIENCE
12
INCLUDED MEALS 8 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D)
9 DAYS - 2 COUNTRIES FROM US$2385 PP*/US$265 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$180. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
INCLUSIONS
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires. Hola Buenos Aires! This cosmopolitan city is filled with culture & diversity in everything from buildings to its people. As the birthplace of tango there’s a love of music, dance & football – not to mention world-renowned beef & red wine. This morning get out & experience this iconic city on a bike tour to spots like Puerto Madero & La Boca. Tonight, get ready to tango with the locals as you learn all the tricks at a dance lesson & show. Hotel (D) City sights bike tour – see the neighbourhoods of La Boca & Puerto Madero Tangolesson, show & dinner
• •
Days 2 - 3: Buenos Aires. We’ll start day 2 with a coach tour to see the rest of the city & then you can experience BA your way. Get into the cuisine of Argentina on our culinary experience: try empanadas or the ubiquitous Argentine steak & learn to make the traditional sweet – alfahoras. You might catch a football game, drink wine at a polo match or perhaps learn to play yourself: hit the shops or pay a visit to the historic Café Tortoni for a café con leche & a spot of people watching. Hotel (B)( B) City tour Palermo Chico & Palermo Soho, Recoleta M Argentineculinary experience
•
Day 4: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls. Today we fly to Puerto Iguassu then travel to the Brazilian side to see the 275 individual waterfalls that make up Iguassu. You could take a heli-flight for a different angle on the Falls, or try your luck at spotting macaws & toucans. Tonight, sample the delicious national drink, caipirinha. Hotel (B) VisitIguassu Falls
•
TRAVELLING EARLY? Day 5: Iguassu Falls. We’ll cross back into Argentina & visit their side of Iguassu Falls with a walk to see Devil’s Throat. The day is all yours to experience the Falls. Try a speed boat ride to feel the spray of the Falls, or go for a swim back at the hotel. Tonight we have tasty BBQ. Hotel (B, D) VisitIguassu Falls Tastedelicious BBQ SeeDevil’s Throat
• • •
Day 6: Iguassu Falls to Rio. Home to the world’s largest carnival celebration, Copacabana Beach & the Brazilian bikini, get ready for good times in Rio. Hotel (B, D) Day 7: Rio de Janeiro. This morning we’ll visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue & after we’ll chill on a boat ride around Guanabara Bay with great views of Sugarloaf – take a swim, have a drink & enjoy a BBQ. Hotel (B, L) Entry to Christ the Redeemer for amazing city views M Cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain
•
Day 8: Rio de Janeiro. Today is yours to explore. Try hang gliding or grab your towel, sunnies & iPod & chill on Rio’s famous Ipanema beach. Tonight we head for our last night in this amazing city! Hotel (B) Day 9: Depart Rio de Janeiro. We’ll give you a unique insiders-only experience of visiting a favela & seeing the contrast of how some cariocas live. Our adventure ends after our favela tour, when it’s time to say ‘Tchau’ (goodbye) to your travel mates. (B) Loca lly guided favela tour
•
Travelling between 30th Aug 2015 & 14th Feb 2016? The below trip (BARJ 2015/16) is 10 days long & features a slightly modified itinerary spending 2 nights in Buenos Aires & 2 nights in Buzios. See below for start & end times & visit contiki.com/southam-experience for full details.
Code: BARJ 2015/16 Start Buenos Aires
2015 Aug 30 Sep 6 Sep 27 Nov 1 Nov 22 Nov 29 Dec 20 ●
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Sep Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec Dec
8 15 6 10 1 8 29
Total Start Cost Buenos US$ pp* Aires
2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445 2445
2016 Jan 10 Jan 17 Jan 24 Feb 14
Finish Rio de Janeiro
Total Cost US$ pp*
Jan Jan Feb Feb
2445 2445 2445 2445
19 26 2 23
Single room supplement add US$775. ● This trip spends Xmas in Buzios.
Code: BARJ 2016/17 Start Buenos Aires
Finish Rio de Janeiro
2016 Mar 27 Apr 4 Apr 10 Apr 18 Apr 24 May 2 May 8 May 16 May 22 May 30 Jun 5 Jun 13 Jun 19 Jun 27 Jul 3 Jul 11 Jul 17 Jul 25 Aug 14 ▼ Aug 22 Aug 28 Sep 5 Sep 11 Sep 19 Sep 25 Oct 3
Total Start Cost Buenos US$ pp* Aires
2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385
Finish Rio de Janeiro
2016 Oct 9 Oct 17 Oct 23 Oct 31 Nov 6 Nov 14 Nov 20 Nov 28 Dec 4 Dec 12 Dec 18 ■ Dec 26 2017 Jan 8 Jan 16 Jan 22 Jan 30 Jan 29 Feb 6 Feb 12 Feb 20 Feb 26 Mar 6
Total Cost US$ pp*
2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385 2385
shown are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling solo, we * Prices can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement add US$715. BARJ: Start Buenos Aires 7:00am & end Rio 11:00am. ■ This trip spends Xmas in Rio. ▼ Trip is in Rio during Olympics 2016. For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
• An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 2 internal flight & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Tango show & lesson in Buenos Aires • City sight seeing bike tour in Buenos Aires • BBQfeast in Iguassu • Citytour of Rio • Locally guided Rio favela tour • Afternoon boat cruise in Rio • Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Helicopterflight over Iguassu Falls M Soccergame (when available) See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ SOUTHAM-EXPERIENCE
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
45
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
REALLY EXPERIENCE LIFE AS A LOCAL. TRACK TURTLES IN COSTA RICA, EXPLORE ANCIENT INCAN RUINS IN PERU & SOAK UP THE SUN-DRENCHED SHORES OF THE CARIBBEAN. THIS TRAVEL STYLE IS ALL ABOUT GRABBING A SLICE OF LOCAL LIFE. 8 TRIPS / 7–14 DAYS
INCLUDED
Ultimate Inca
• Twin-share rooms, or a single room for a little extra privacy for a little extra & 3 nights camping for those who head out for adventure on the Ultimate Inca
....................................... p.47
Costa Rica Unplugged............................ p.48 Mayan Rocker ........................................... p.50 Caribbean Encounter .............................. p.51 Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper ... p.52 Peru Uncovered ........................................ p.54 Andes & Amazon Highlights ................ p.56 Inca Panorama ......................................... p.57
New for 2016
• Breakfast each day, and lots of included local cuisine • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • An experienced & professional Trip Manager, plus expert English speaking Local Guides
contiki.com/in-depth-explorer-latin-america
• Lots of included activities, like a sunset cruise & wildlife kayaking experience, a salsa lesson & a walking tour of Cusco • A modern air-conditioned coach, mini coach or van • ME Time – your chance to explore on your own or take advantage of our awesome optional activities
We Love WiFi – stay connected with WiFi at most overnight stops
AM AMAZ A MAZ M AZO AZ ON N
BRAZIL PERU
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
AGUA AS CALIE IE IENTES (Machu u Pic c u)) cchu)
Andes
Bolivia
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$135. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS 2 World Heritage sites visited
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Cusco. Meet up with your Contiki team this morning & get ready for your adventure to begin! The modern-day starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore this ancient city on foot, then the afternoon is free for you to explore, your way. From ancient Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops & boutiques, to delicious cuisine & adrenaline activities, there’s something for everyone! Hotel ( D) Citywalking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro Market
• •
Day 2: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Todaywe explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before spending the night in one of Peru’s oldest towns. Tonight make sure you rest up, as tomorrow the expedition to Machu Picchu will begin! Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pisac & Ollantaytambo Try some local Chicha de Jora
• •
Days 3 - 6: Inca Trail. Get ready for mind-blowing views as we embark on this once in a lifetime trek of the Incas. We’ll follow ancient trails through thick cloud forest, past waterfalls, wildlife & ancient ruins and over the mountain of Warmiwanusca, also known as ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’. On these three nights you’ll camp overnight with the mountains & cloud forest as your backdrop. Spend your first night Wayllabamba (3,000 metres), the 2nd night at Pacamayo (3,600m) & your final night at Wiñay Wayna (2700m). On the final morning, arriving at the Sun Gate for that first glimpse of Machu Picchu will make you feel like you’ve conquered a enchanted land. Explore the magical ancient ruins & imagine life as it was in the Inca times, before we head back to the Sacred Valley for some much needed R&R. Hotel (B, L, D) (B, L, D) (B, L, D) (B)
CUSCO 2
SNAPSHOT
1 SACRE ACRE CRE CRED VALLEY Y
4 nights in twin-share hotels & 3 nights camping on the Inca Trail
Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Train
15
INCLUDED MEALS
Code: INCAT 2016/17 Day 7: Sacred Valley to Cusco. Todaywe make our way back to Cusco via the Sacred Valley. We will stop at the weaving community of Chinchero, one of the great local causes supported by Tread Right, before arriving back to Cusco. Enjoy a free afternoon; relax with a book or wander the town before we meet up for our farewell dinner. Hotel (B, D) VisitChinchero
•
Day 8: Depart Cusco. It’s time to says ‘adios’ to your new friends as your trip ends at 11:00am this morning. (B)
Start Cusco
Finish Cusco
Total Start Cost Cusco US$ pp*
Apr Apr May May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep
1475 1475 1475 1475 1475 1499 1499 1559 1559 1559 1559 1559
2016 Mar Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug
27 10 24 8 22 5 19 3 17 31 14 28
7
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
Coast
8 DAYS - 1 COUNTRY FROM US$1439 PP*/US$180 P/DAY*
NEW TRIP
MACHU PICCHU
4
INCA A TRA AIL A Ollan llan ay llantay aytam amb ambo a am mb m
ULTIMATE INCA SAVE
Rainforest
Finish Cusco
Total Cost US$ pp*
Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
18 2 16 30 13 27 11 25
1499 1499 1475 1475 1439 1439 1499 1499
Jan 15 Jan 29
1499 1499
7 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 5 dinners (D)
2016 3 17 1 15 29 12 26 10 24 7 21 4
Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
11 25 9 23 6 20 4 18
2017 Jan 8 Jan 22
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$185. Start Cusco 8:00am & end Cusco approx. 11:00am. For travel insurance see p.66.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Space to trek the iconic Inca Trail is in high demand, with a limited number of spaces each day. In order to maximize the opportunity for our travellers to take the trek as a group, we have created a flexible itinerary, where the days that we take the trek may vary from the itinerary. If we need to alternate the itinerary to accommodate, rest assured that all destinations as specified in the itinerary will be visited as part of the 8-day Ultimate Inca trip, but the 4-day hike may be on different days. On the occasion that spaces on the Inca Trail are sold out, one of the area’s alternative treks will be offered at the time of booking. You will be advised of your itinerary in advance of your trip. Visit contiki.com/ultimate-inca for details.
• Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro market • Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the Pisac ruins & Ollantaytambo • Guided tour of Machu Picchu • Visit the weaving community of Chinchero; a TreadRight sponsored initiative Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
CONTIKI.COM/ ULTIMATE-INCA
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
47
COSTA RICA
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
12 DAYS - FROM US$2299 PP*/US$192 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$235. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
Nicaragua
COSTA RICA
ARENAL playa tamarindo 2
SARAPIQUI 1
2
2 MONTEVERDE
Poas Volcano National Park
2
TORTUGUERO 15 day extension only
Braulio Carrillo National Park
1 SAN JOSÉ SAN JOSÉ 2 15 day extension only Quepos
GULF OF MEXICO
MANUEL ANTONIO 3 Manuel Antonio National Park
PACIFIC OCEAN
COSTA RICAN RAINFOREST
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 15 day extension nightstop (Jun-Oct 2016) 1 or more nights at Special Stay
COSTA RICA UNPLUGGED
SNAPSHOT
11
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION Special Stay experiences: 2 nights Beach Resort, 1 night Eco Rainforest Lodge & 8 nights in twin-share hotels
19
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive San José. Meet up with your Contiki Team before heading out to explore Poás Volcano National Park & San José’s famous spots. Tonight, start the trip right & get to know your group over a delicious dinner at our favourite local restaurant. Hotel (D) San José tour see La Sabana Park, the Contemporary Art Museum, Central market, La Plaza de la Cultura & National Theatre VisitPoás Volcano National Park
• •
Day 2: San José to Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge (Selva Verde Eco-Lodge Special stay). Nextup, our overnight eco-lodge in Sarapiqui – it’s perfect for those that love to relax. You’ll discover the rainforest on our Tirimbina chocolate tour to learn about one of mankind’s favourite treats. After we head to the lodge where you can explore the trails & hanging bridges or just chill by the pool. (B, D) Contiki Special Stay Rainforest Lodge Loca lly guided Tirimbina chocolate tour Dance lessons
• •
Day 3: Sarapiqui to Arenal/La Fortuna. This morning’s yours, so choose from adrenaline pumping whitewater rafting, a canopy adventure or horseback riding before checking out the perfectly symmetrical Arenal volcano. The area is known for its spa & mud pool treatments, so it’s the ideal place to treat yourself. Hotel (B, L) Try rafting, a canopy zipline or horseback riding – your choice! See the incredible Arenal volcano
• •
Day 4: Arenal. This morning maybe give canyoneering a go, then this afternoon experience the traditional Costa Rican way of life with a visit to La Casona Rio Fortuna. Get in the know as you learn how to mill sugar cane & make delicious coffee & tortillas, then enjoy a traditional homemade dinner with the owners. Hotel (B, D) Guided tour of Las Casona & its local industries Learn how traditional products are made & try making some yourself! M Canyoneering(waterfall rappelling)
• •
Day 5: Arenal to Playa Tamarindo. Todaywe head to the Pacific coast to spend a couple of days in Playa Tamarindo, known for its great surfing beaches & party feel. Before arriving we’ll visit Palo Verde National Park, a slice of wetland sanctuary in the middle of Costa Rica’s driest region & experience a wildlife river cruise on the Tempique River. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of American crocodiles, coatis, raccoons, capuchin & howler monkeys. BeachResort (B, L, D)
• •
Palo Verde National Park Wildlife boat tour & lunch
Day 6: Playa Tamarindo. Get into the laid-back vibe of this beach town, try your hand at surfing, snorkelling or diving. This afternoon join us on an optional catamaran cruise. Beach Resort (B) M Catamarantrip Day 7: Playa Tamarindo to Monteverde. Today it’s on to Monteverde, Costa Rica’s most popular reserve. It’s one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the tropics, filled with cloud forests, coffee plantations, monkeys, mist & friendly locals. This afternoon we hike into the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Hotel (B) Hike the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
•
Day 8: Monteverde. It’s an early start this morning as we visit Selvatura Park to walk the hanging bridges, visit the butterfly sanctuary & for the thrill seekers opt in for ziplining. This afternoon learn the A-Z about Costa Rica’s famous coffee. Hotel (B, D) CostaRican coffee making tour
•
Day 9: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. It’sall sun & good times this morning, we’re off to the beautiful beaches of the Costa Rican central Pacific coast! We’ll make a stop in Jaco before arriving at Manuel Antonio, a haven for those that love to relax. Hotel (B) Day 10: Manuel Antonio. This morning is all about doing your own thing. Hit the beach with your iPod & a book, head out to explore the town or just sit with a drink & work on your tan. This afternoon opt in for a horseback ride through the jungle & to the Tacori waterfalls. Hotel (B) Visita local market M Horsebackriding
•
Day 11: Manuel Antonio. It’s time to get active & walk with our expert guide through the exotic, bio-diverse tropical rainforest of Manuel Antonio National Park. This afternoon join a kayak adventure to explore the biodiversity in the mangroves. Don’t forget your swimming gear for swim stops & snorkelling. Hotel (B, D) Loca lly guided rainforest hike M Coasta l kayak/snorkelling experience
•
Day 12: Manuel Antonio to San José. Relaxin paradise this morning before we head back to San José where your trip ends on arrival. (B) Please note: Do not book departing flights before 8:00pm.
TORTUGUERO TURTLE EXPERIENCE 3-DAY TRIP EXTENSION JUNE-OCTOBER 2016 Travelling between June-October 2016? Add on a 3-day extension to experience one of the Western Hemisphere’s most important nesting sites of the green sea turtle. The experience: Spend the night in San José, then the following morning leave the big city behind & head to eco-tourism hotspot Tortuguero & our 2-night jungle lodge by boat. Pass by plantations & travel through a lush tropical rainforest, meander on the rivers & canals which offer breathtaking views of the Costa Rican forest & mangrove swamps. Visit the stunning coastline to prepare to have a once in a lifetime moment as you watch the turtles nest or give birth! We return to San José on day 15 at approx. 4:00pm Twin room supplement US$665. Single room supp US$750. See ■ symbol in price panel for available departures. Code: COSTAT
15 DAYS
INCLUDED MEALS
TRAVELLING EARLY? Travelling between 12th Sep 2015 & 20th Feb 2016? The below trip (COSTR 2015/16) features a slightly modified itinerary spending 2 nights in Tortuguero. See below for start & end times & visit contiki.com/unplugged for full details.
Code: COSTR2015/16 Start San José
Finish San José
Total Start Cost San José US$ pp*
Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
2299 2299 2299 2299 2299 2299 2299
12 26 17 31 14 28 12
23 7 28 11 25 9 23
Dec 26 ● Jan 6
27
Total Cost US$ pp*
INCLUDED MEALS (TURTLE VISIT OPTION)
2299
14 breakfasts (B), 5 lunches (L), 8 dinners (D)
2015
2015 Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec
Finish San José
11 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 6 dinners (D)
2016 Jan Jan Feb Feb
9 23 6 20
Jan Feb Feb Mar
20 3 17 2
2299 2299 2299 2299
Single room supplement add US$845.
INCLUSIONS
● Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Arenal.
• An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
Code: COSTR 2016/17 Start San José
Finish San José
Total Start Cost San José US$ pp*
Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep
2365 2365 2365 2365 2365 2365 2365 2365 2365 2365
26 30 4 25 9 23 13 20 3 17
Total Cost US$ pp*
2016
2016 Mar Apr Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep
Finish San José
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
6 11 15 6 20 3 24 31 14 28
Oct Oct Nov Dec Dec
1 ■ Oct 12 29 Nov 9 26 Dec 7 17 ▲ Dec 28 31 ◆ Jan 11
2365 2365 2365 2365 2365
2017 Jan 28 Feb 25
Feb 8 Mar 8
2365 2365
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$895.
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Rafting, canopy adventure or horseback riding in Sarapiqui • Enjoy dinner at a traditional country estate Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
Start San José 8:00am & end San José approx. 4:00pm. ■ Turtle visit extension available on these departures.
ME TIME OPTIONS
▲ Trip spends Xmas in Manuel Antonio. ◆ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in San José.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
POAS VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK
M Hotsprings dip M SelvaturaPark ziplining M Mangrove/DamasIsland kayaking See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
LOCAL CULTURE Love people watching? Grab an ice cream & spend an afternoon chilling out at Parque Central in San José.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ UNPLUGGED
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
49
ANTIGUA
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
SNAPSHOT
MEXICO
MAYAN ROCKER
7
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION 7 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
GULF OF MEXICO
Mexico City
PUEBLA
Oaxaca 2 Monte Alban
Mitla
OAXACA
SAN CRISTOBAL 2 CHIAPAS Chiapas Comitan
TEHUANTEPEC 1
ANTIGUA 1
8 DAYS - 2 COUNTRIES FROM US$1815 PP*/US$227 P/DAY*
10
SAVE
GUATEMALA
PANAJACHEL 1
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$180. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
INCLUDED MEALS
Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van
4 World Heritage sites visited
7 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D)
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager plus Local Guides in some destinations • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major cities plus orientations in all other destinations • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS
Finish Mexico City
Total Start Cost Antigua US$ pp*
Finish Mexico City
Total Cost US$ pp*
Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
2 23 13 11 8 6 27
1815 1815 1815 1815 1815 1815 1815
Jan 10 Feb 7 Mar 7
1815 1815 1815
Day 7: Monte Alban. Discover local museums & shops before we visit Monte Alban. Famous for its traditional crafts, we visit a local workshop before our last night… Salud! Hotel (B, D) Visit Monte Alban & a local workshop
Day 2: Antigua to Panajachel. Takea private boat to a lakeside Mayan community. Afterwards, relax on a hammock & enjoy the views. Hotel (B) Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlan & learn to make tortillas
Day 8: Oaxaca to Mexico City. Travel to the centre of the ancient Aztec universe. Take a tour of Puebla, then head to Cholula. Enjoy lunch or enter the ruins & explore ancient tunnels (entrance fee not included). Later we arrive in Mexico City & say adios! (B) VisitCholula
2016
Please note: Do not book departing flights before 9:00pm.
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
•
Day 3: Panajachel to San Cristobal de las Casas. We’ll make our way through Guatemala’s highlands before reaching Chiapas. Next up, the evergreens & the cultural capital of San Cristobal! Hotel (B) Visit the charming town of Comitan
•
Day 4: San Cristobal de las Casas. Adventurers can try horseback riding or mountain biking this morning, then we’ll visit the Mayan hillside communities. Tonight, try some ‘tamales chiapanecos’ before hitting the town. Hotel (B, D) Enter a sacred highland temple M Horseback ride
ME TIME OPTIONS
Day 6: Tehuantepec to Oaxaca. Firstup, Oaxaca then it’s onto Matatlan. Later we head to Mitla, where sacred rites were once carried out. Discover colonial architecture this evening & stop at the local market for some delicious chapulines…yum! Hotel (B) VisitMitla Sam ple food in Oaxaca Locally guided walking tour of colonial Oaxaca
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ MAYAN-ROCKER
Start Antigua
Day 1: Arrive Antigua. Meet up with your Contiki Team, then get out & see the sights. Adventure seekers can hike a volcano or ride mountain bikes. Or simply relax & shop for local textiles & chocolate. Hotel M Hikethe Pacaya volcano
• Visit a Mayan community among the volcanoes of Lake Atitlan • Taste fiery mescal & sample spicy chapulines in the valley of Oaxaca • Visit the UNESCO site Monte Alban Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
Look for the M symbol in the itinerary & visit contiki.com
Code: ANMC2015/16/17
•
•
2016
2015 Sep 8 Sep 15 Nov 3 Nov 10 Dec 22 ● Dec 29 Feb Mar Mar May Jun Jun Jul
2 15 29 3 7 28 12
Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul
9 22 5 10 14 5 19
1815 1815 1815 1815 1815 1815 1815 1815 1815 1815
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Nov Dec
26 16 6 4 1 29 20 ■
2017 Jan 3 Jan 31 Feb 28
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$345. Start Antigua 8:00am & end Mexico City approx. 5:00pm. ● Trip spends Xmas in San Cristobal de las Casas. ■ Trip spends Xmas in Oaxaca.
•
Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): departing Guatemala US$1.50, entering Mexico US$22.
Day 5: San Cristobal de las Casas to Tehuantepec. Head into the beautiful coastal plains of Tehuantepec & visit the city square. This evening, enjoy a delicious local meal. Hotel (B, D)
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.
• • •
For travel insurance see p.66. Explore More: Have a few more days? Check out the Central Trail & start this trip in Cancun.
CANCUN 1 Playa del Carmen
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
GULF OF MEXICO
CARIBBEAN ENCOUNTER
Guatemalan Rainforest 1
7 DAYS - 3 COUNTRIES FROM US$1825 PP*/US$261 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$155. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Cancun. Touch down in Cancun, Mexico’s gateway to the Caribbean where sun, music & sights await! Meet your Contiki Team, then get amongst the nightlife at Parque las Palapas. Hotel (D) Day 2: Cancun to Caye Caulker. AdiosMexico! We’ll head to Chetumal for some exploring before it’s onto the Caribbean island of Caye Caulker. Tonight prepare to feast on fresh seafood & your chance to sample the reggae nightlife! Hotel (B, D)
2 CAYE CAULKER
BELIZE
ziplines! Explore the local ruins then drift to sleep to the sounds of the forest. (B, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Stay in Tikal National Park M Jungle ziplining
•
Day 5: Guatemalan Rainforest to Santa Elena (Flores). Rise early to watch daybreak unfold from the top of the Mayan ruin, Templo IV. We’ll take a guided tour of the area before a trip to the island of Flores, built on the ancient Mayan centre, Tayasal. Hotel (B ) Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park Day 6: Santa Elena to Antigua. Fromthe relaxed Flores to Guatemala’s bustling capital city! Visit World Heritage Antigua & experience this historic & beautiful town. Hotel (B,D) Sightseeingtour of colonial Antigua
Day 4: Caye Caulker to Guatemalan Rainforest. Next up is Guatemala’s Peten via Belize City! On arrival at our awesome jungle lodge there’s the option to fly through the rainforest canopy on
Day 7: Depart Antigua. Thismorning it’s adios to your amigos. So say your goodbyes before heading home, or get out & do some more exploring in Antigua. (B)
• •
Start Cancun
1 ANTIGUA
10
Finish Antigua
Total Start Cost Cancun US$ pp*
Sep 8 Nov 3 Dec 22
1825 1825 1825
INCLUDED MEALS
Feb Mar Mar May Jun Jun Jul
1825 1825 1825 1825 1825 1825 1825
2016 Jan Mar Mar Apr Jun Jun Jul
27 9 23 27 1 22 6
6 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D) Finish Antigua
Total Cost US$ pp*
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Nov Dec Jan
26 16 6 4 1 29 20 3
1825 1825 1825 1825 1825 1825 1825 1825
Jan 31 Feb 28
1825 1825
2016
2015 Sep 2 Oct 28 Dec 16
6
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION Unique Special Stay: 1 night Jungle Lodge & 5 nights in twin-share hotels
GUATEMALA
Code: CAAN 2015/16/17
Day 3: Caye Caulker. The day is all yours! You could try swimming with sharks at Belize’s World Heritage Barrier Reef, kayaking the mangroves or lazing on “The Split”! Tonight, it’s an amazing sunset sail with snacks, drinks & music. Hotel (B) Sunsetboat cruise M Dive or snorkel on Belize Barrier Reef
•
SNAPSHOT
Belize City
Flores
SANTA 1 ELENA
3 World Heritage sites visited
CAYE CAULKER
QUINTANA ROO
2 15 29 3 7 28 12
Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
20 10 31 28 26 23 14 28 ●
2017 Jan 25 Feb 22
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Start Cancun 5:00pm & end Antigua approx. 11:00am. Important: the following border crossing fees are not included in the trip price. You will need to pay them locally (approx.): leaving Mexico for Belize US$32.50, departing Belize US$20, entering Guatemala US$1.50. ● Trip spends NYE in Tikal.
For travel insurance see p.66. Explore More: Have a few more days? Check out the Central Trail & end this trip in Mexico City.
• An experienced & professional Trip Manager plus Local Guides in some destinations • 1 internal flight & transfer • Transport in a private air-con coach, mini-coach or van • Water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker (round trip) • Sightseeingtours • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS
Single room supplement add US$395.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.
INCLUSIONS
• See the Belize Barrier Reef • Sunset boat cruise • Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Kayak the crystalline Caribbean See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ CARIBBEAN-ENCOUNTER
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
51
ECUADOR
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
12 DAYS - FROM US$3325 PP*/US$278 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$270. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
ECUADOR
QUITO 1 GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Baltra
ISABELA
Puerto 2 VILLAMIL
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
2 World Heritage sites visited
SANTA CRUZ
Puerto Ayora 1 2 SAN CRISTOBAL Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO
Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Plane or boat
2 TENA 2 BAテ前S
1 GUAYAQUIL
SNAPSHOT
ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS 11 ISLAND HOPPER
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION 11 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Start Quito. Welcome to Ecuador’s capital, Quito! Meet up with your Contiki Team & group before exploring. Your expert guide will teach you all about this city & the history of the Inca & the Spanish invasion before the city’s best views at Panecillo. Later, visit the Equator line & wander between the two hemispheres. Tonight, head out for dinner with the group. Hotel (D) Locally guided city tour to see the Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral VisitPanecillo lookout Visit the Inti Ñan Museum at the Equator
• • •
Day 2: Quito to Tena. It’s out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views & a thermal pool swim en route. A perfect way to spend the day. Hotel (B) Therma l springs swim
•
Day 3: Tena. This morning its all about ME Time – have a lie in or opt to visit an indigenous community. Get your adrenaline pumping this afternoon on class 3-4 rapids. Hotel (B, D) M Raftingexperience Day 4: Tena to Baños. We head to Baños today, the adventure capital of Ecuador, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Tonight get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson. Hotel (B) Salsa dancing lesson
•
Day 5: Baños. With a free day, explore your way & Baños goes off! Situated in a valley of waterfalls & hot springs, Baños is a hub for travellers who love great weather, small town vibes & the great outdoors. Choose your adventure – horseback riding, canyoning, or abseiling. Hotel (B, D) Day 6: Baños to Guayaquil. Today we head to Guayaquil. A walk down the promenade is essential. Tonight, set sail on an evening river cruise with drinks. Hotel (B) Eveningriver cruise
•
Day 7: Guayaquil to Isabela Island. Todaywe fly to the Galapagos Islands. Before arriving in Puerto GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Ayora we’ll check out the island’s old lava tunnels & see the giant tortoises. Later, get out on the water as we head off to Isabela Island. Hotel (B, D) See famous Galapagos giant tortoises Visit some lava tunnels Boat ride to Isabela Island
• • •
Day 8: Isabela Island. Thismorning we’ll kayak with sea lions & snorkel with colourful fish. This afternoon we’ll visit the Wall of Tears – you might even see some baby tortoises along the way! Hotel (B, L) Wildlifekayaking adventure Visitthe Wall of Tears norkelling S experience
• • •
Day 9: Isabel Island to Santa Cruz Island. Relax this morning before we take off to Santa Cruz Island. This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay for a stroll along the beach & a swim. Hotel (B) VisitTortuga Bay
•
Day 10: Santa Cruz Island to San Cristobal Island. We’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station this morning & check out the tortoises & land iguanas before heading out to San Cristobal! This afternoon explore the island by bike before watching the sunset. Hotel (B) Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
•
Day 11: San Cristobal Island. First up: a coastal cruise to spot native birds, before hitting the water in search of puffer fish & cute sea lion pups. We’ll snorkel around Kicker Rock’s 143m tuff cone looking out for manta rays, starfish & maybe a Galapagos shark. Later, relax on the beach, before a BBQ feast. Hotel (B, L, D) Boat cruise & off shore bird spotting experience ExploreKicker Rock’s 143m cone VisitPuerto Grande beach
• • •
Day 12: Santa Cristobal to Guayaquil. There’s time to relax this morning & take in the beauty of the island before heading back to the mainland where your trip ends on arrival. (B) Please note: Do not book departing flights before 6:00pm.
18
TRAVELLING EARLY? Travelling between 17th Aug 2015 & 1st Feb 2016? The below trip (QUGU 2015/16) is 11 days long & features a slightly modified itinerary, spending 1 night in Tena. See below for start & end times & visit contiki.com/ecuador-galapagos-hopper for full details.
INCLUDED MEALS 11 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 5 dinners (D)
Code: QUGU2015/16 Start Quito
Finish Guayaquil
Total Start Cost Quito US$ pp*
Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
3285 3285 3285 3285 3285
17 14 12 9 7
Total Cost US$ pp*
Jan 14 Feb 11
3285 3285
Finish Guayaquil
Total Cost US$ pp*
Oct 10 Nov 7 Dec 12
Oct 21 Nov 18 Dec 23
3325 3325 3325
2017 Jan 2 Jan 30
Jan 13 Feb 10
3325 3325
2016
2015 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Finish Guayaquil
27 24 22 19 17
Jan 4 Feb 1
Single room supplement add US$485.
Code: QUGU 2016/17 Start Quito
Finish Guayaquil
Total Start Cost Quito US$ pp*
Mar Apr May Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep
3325 3325 3325 3325 3325 3325 3325 3325
2016
2016 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
29 28 25 23 20 18 15 12
11 8 6 3 1 29 26 23
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement add US$495. Start Quito 7:00am & end Guayaquil approx. 4:00pm. Note: The Galapagos Islands have a compulsory US$100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park, a US$20 INGALA fee & a US$5 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival (subject to increase). Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations.
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 2 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges (excluding Galapagos, see price panel)
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Go local at a salsa lesson • Evening river cruise & drinks • Galapagos BBQ feast at our favourite local spot Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Rappelling(abseiling) & canyoning day trip M Ziplining M SanCristobal Island guided biking adventure See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
LOCAL CULTURE The Galapagos Islands are famous for providing the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s ground breaking theory of evolution by natural selection.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ ECUADOR-GALAPAGOSHOPPER
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
53
PERU
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
14 DAYS - FROM US$3185 PP*/US$228 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$250. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
Brazil
AGUAS CALIENTES 1 (Machu Picchu)
Rainforest
AMAZON LODGE 1
INCA TRAIL
1 Lima
Ollantaytambo
1 PUERTO MALDONADO
PERU
SACRED 1 VALLEY CUSCO 4 Bolivia
Coast
Andes
Chivay
COLCA CANYON 1 PACIFIC OCEAN
4 World Heritage sites visited
CUSCO
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane, train or canoe
2 PUNO/LAKE TITICACA 1 AREQUIPA
PERU UNCOVERED
SNAPSHOT
13
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION Unique Special Stays: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge, 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge &11 nights in twin-share hotels
24
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Lima. Meet your Contiki Team & group this morning before checking out the city sights. Made up of 43 districts with their own flair, bustling Lima is not short of things to do & with a free afternoon the city’s yours to explore. Hotel (D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores
•
Day 2: Lima to Arequipa. We fly to the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour. Hotel (B) Citywalking tour Visit the Santa Catalina Convent & the Plaza de Armas
• •
Day 8: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Todaywe explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & Pisac ruins Try some local Chicha de Jora
• •
Day 9: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads on offer, before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B) Day 9: Inca Trail Trek. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the Trail to our highlight Machu Picchu! Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloud forest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our Local Guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.22-23 for more info. Code: LILIT
Day 3: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. Wedrive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve on our way to the Colca Canyon. We stop for a hot springs swim before a night at our rustic lodge. (B, L, D) ContikiSpecial Stay See wild vicuña See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip
• • • •
Day 4: Colca Canyon to Puno. First up we’ll try & spot the Andean condor. Later, experience the Andes along the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Hotel (B) VisitMaca Pueblo Seethe massive Colca Canyon VisitCruz del Condor
• • •
Day 5: Puno. Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising Lake Titicaca to the island of Taquile & the floating Uros Islands. Meet locals & see their handmade crafts. Hotel (B, L, D) Ride on a triciclo! Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca Visit the Taquile & Uros island communities
• • •
Day 6: Puno to Cusco. First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins. See the Inca walls in Raqchi & then the ancient Incan empire, Cusco. Hotel (B) Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani Seethe Temple of Wiracocha
• •
Day 7: Cusco. Experience Cusco today on a guided tour, then the afternoon’s yours. Explore Inca buildings, or try local food or adrenaline activities. Hotel (B, D) Citywalking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro Market
• •
MACHU PICCHU
Day 10: Machu Picchu to Cusco. Wake early & enter Machu Picchu for sunrise. Learn more about Machu Picchu on a tour, then explore. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar
•
Day 11: Cusco. Why not start the day mountain biking & rafting? Then get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B, D) Day 12: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then chill to the sound of the jungle. (B, L, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Visit the Infierno community PuertoMaldonado city tour Junglecanopy hike
• • •
Day 13: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like the giant otter, before it’s back to the city. Hotel (B, L, D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip
•
Day 14: Puerto Maldonado to Lima. Yourtrip ends on arrival in Lima, where it’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your travel mates. (B) Please note: Do not book departing flights before 9:00pm.
INCLUDED MEALS
Code: LILI/LILIT2015/16/17 Start Lima
Finish Lima
Trip Trip plus Start only Inca Trail Lima US$ pp* US$ pp*
Aug Sep Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan
28 4 11 20 25 9 23 30 6 15 20 27 4 13 18 1 8 10
3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185
3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385
Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb Mar
15 22 29 7 12 26 6
3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185
3385 3385 3385 NA NA NA 3385
2015 Aug Aug Aug Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Dec
15 22 29 7 12 26 10 17 24 2 7 14 21 30 5 19 ● 26 ■ 28 ▲ 2 9 16 25 30 13 22
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
Mar Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan
25 8 22 6 20 3 17 1 15 12 26 9 23 7 21 4 18 2 16 6
3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185 3185
3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385 3385
Jan Jan Feb Feb
20 27 10 24
3185 3185 3185 3185
3385 3385 NA NA
2016
2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb
Finish Lima
Mar Mar Apr Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
12 26 9 23 7 21 4 18 2 30 13 27 10 24 8 22 5 19 3 24 ◆
2017 Jan Jan Jan Feb
7 14 28 11
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$505. Start Lima 8:00am & end Lima approx. 5:00pm. Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration. Note: The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance. ● Trip spends Xmas in Cusco & New Year’s Eve in Jungle
Lodge. ■ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Cusco. ▲ Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Puno. ◆ Trip spends Xmas in Arequipa & NYE in the Sacred Valley
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
13 breakfasts (B), 4 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
25
INCLUDED MEALS (TREKKING OPTION) 13 breakfasts (B), 5 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 3 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • City tour of Arequipa visiting the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Whitewater rafting on the Urubamba River M Mountainbiking adventure See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
LOCAL CULTURE Sweet, sour & delicious! The famous Peruvian Pisco Sour cocktail is a must for those after something tantalizing to sip on in the sun.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ PERU-UNCOVERED
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
55
Brazil
PERU Andes
SNAPSHOT
INCA TRAIL
7
Unique Special Stay: 2 nights Amazon Jungle Lodge & 5 nights in twin-share hotels
PACIFIC OCEAN
7 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 4 dinners (D)
14
INCLUDED MEALS (TREKKING OPTION) 7 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 4 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 2 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Walking tour of Cusco & entry to La Catedral & the Temple of Koricancha Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with • VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ ANDES-AMAZON
TRAVELLING EARLY?
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Cusco. As the modern-day starting point for visits to Machu Picchu, we’ll explore the city on foot, then the afternoon’s yours. From Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops to boutiques & delicious cuisine & adrenaline activities, there’s loads to experience. Hotel (D) Citywalking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral & San Pedro Market
Day 3: Jungle Lodge. With another day at the jungle lodge, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like the giant otter. Hotel (B, L, D) Locally guided jungle catamaran boat trip
•
Day 4: Jungle Lodge to Cusco. Spendtoday exploring the beautiful city of Cusco – wander the main plaza, visit the Tread Right support weaving center or feed your sweet tooth with a visit to the chocolate museum Then get into Cusco’s amazing nightlife & join our Illary (Sunrise) Club! Hotel (B ) Day 5: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Todaywe explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & Pisac Ruins Try some local Chicha de Jora
• •
Day 6: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads on offer, before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B)
Travelling between 28th Aug 2015 & 28th Feb 2016? The below trips (CULI/CULIT 2015/16) feature a slightly modified itinerary. 1 night Amazon Jungle Lodge & 1 night in Puerto Maldonado. See below for start & end times & visit contiki.com/andes-amazon for full details.
Day 6: Inca Trail Trek. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to our highlight Machu Picchu! Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloud forest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our Local Guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.22-23 for more info. Code: CUCUT
• •
• • •
Bolivia
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane or train
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$175. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
Day 2: Cusco to Jungle Lodge. Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. You could hike through the jungle for a canopy climb, then chill to the sound of the jungle. (B, L, D) Contiki Special Stay Jungle Lodge Visit the Infierno community PuertoMaldonado city tour Junglecanopy hike
CUSCO 3
3 World Heritage sites visited
13
INCLUDED MEALS
Ollantaytambo
Coast
8 DAYS - 1 COUNTRY FROM US$2095 PP*/US$262 P/DAY* SAVE
AMAZON LODGE 2
SACRED VALLEY 1
ANDES & AMAZON HIGHLIGHTS
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
1
(Machu Picchu)
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
CUSCO
Rainforest
AGUAS CALIENTES
Code: CULI/CULIT 2015/16
Day 7: Machu Picchu to Cusco. Wake early & enter Machu Picchu for sunrise. Learn more about Machu Picchu on a tour, then explore before returning to base. Hotel (B,D) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar
SUN GATE
Finish Lima
Finish Lima
2015 Aug 28 Sep 13 Sep 18 Oct 11 Oct 16 Oct 23 Nov 8 Nov 13 Nov 20 Dec 6
Trip Trip plus Start only Inca Trail Cusco US$ pp* US$ pp*
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec
2095 2095 2095 2095 2095 2095 2095 2095 2095 2095
Dec 18
2095
2295
Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar
2095 2095 2095 2095 2095 2095 2095
2295 2295 2295 2295 NA NA 2295
4 20 25 18 23 30 15 20 27 13
2295 2295 2295 2295 2295 2295 2295 2295 2295 2295
2015 Dec 11 2016 Jan 1 Jan 3 Jan 8 Jan 15 Jan 31 Feb 5 Feb 28
8 10 15 22 7 12 6
Single room supplement add US$345.
Code: CUCU/CUCUT 2016/17
•
Day 8: Depart Cusco. It’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your travel mates as your trip ends after breakfast.
Start Cusco
(B)
Start Cusco
Finish Cusco
Trip Trip plus Start only Inca Trail Cusco US$ pp* US$ pp*
2016 Mar 5 Mar 19 Apr 2 Apr 16 Apr 30 May 14 May 21 Jun 11 Jun 25 Jul 9 Jul 23 Aug 6 Aug 20
Mar Mar Apr Apr May May May Jun Jul Jul Jul Aug Aug
2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235
12 26 9 23 7 21 28 18 2 16 30 13 27
2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435
2016 Sep 3 Sep 17 Oct 1 Oct 15 Oct 29 Nov 12 Nov 26 Dec 10 Dec 24 ● 2017 Jan 7 Jan 21
Finish Cusco
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec
10 24 8 22 5 19 3 17 31
2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235 2235
2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435 2435
Jan 14 Jan 28
2235 2235
2435 2435
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement add US$405. Start Cusco 8:00am & end Cusco 11:00am. Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration. Note: The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance. ● Trip spends Xmas in the Jungle Lodge.
MACHU PICCHU
IN-DEPTH EXPLORER
(Machu Picchu)
INCA PANORAMA 11 DAYS - 1 COUNTRY FROM US$2135 PP*/US$195 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$190. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
•
Day 2: Lima to Arequipa. We fly to the “White City” of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history with a walking tour. Hotel (B) Citywalking tour Visit the Santa Catalina Convent & the Plaza de Armas
• •
Day 3: Arequipa to Colca Canyon. Wedrive through Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve on our way to the Colca Canyon. We stop for a hot springs swim before a night at our rustic lodge. (B, L, D) ContikiSpecial Stay See wild vicuña See the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes Indulge in a relaxing hot spring dip
• • • •
Da y 9: Inca Trail Trek. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the Trail to our highlight Machu Picchu! Take a train to Kilometre 104 & trek amongst the cloud forest to the Sun Gate & Guardian House where your hard work is rewarded with incredible views of this magnificent ancient site before returning to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B,L) • Train ride to Kilometre 104 • Tour Machu Picchu with our Local Guide • Return train ride from Machu Picchu See p.22-23 for more info. Code: LICUT
• • •
Day 6: Puno to Cusco. First up is Pukara & its ancient Inca ruins. See the Inca walls in Raqchi & then the ancient Incan Empire, Cusco. Hotel (B) Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani Seethe Temple of Wiracocha
• •
Bolivia
Chivay
COLCA CANYON 1
Places visited 1 or more nightstops 1 or more nights at Special Stay Coach, mini-coach or van Plane or train
Day 7: Cusco. Experience Cusco on a guided walking tour then the afternoon’s yours. Explore Inca buildings, or try local food or adrenaline activities. Hotel (B, D) Citywalking tour Visit San Blas, La Catedral, Koricancha & San Pedro Market Day 8: Cusco to Sacred Valley. Todaywe explore the Sacred Valley. Take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s oldest towns. Hotel (B) Entry into the Sacred Valley & Pisac ruins Try some local Chicha de Jora Day 9: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Adventure & adrenaline await! From biking & hiking to rafting there’s loads on offer, before we take the train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel (B)
Day 4: Colca Canyon to Puno. First up we’ll try & spot the Andean condor. Later, experience the Andes along the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Hotel (B) VisitMaca Pueblo Seethe massive Colca Canyon VisitCruz del Condor
•
Unique Special Stay: 1 night Colca Canyon Lodge & 9 nights in twin-share hotels
2 PUNO/LAKE 1 TITICACA AREQUIPA
Day 10: Machu Picchu to Cusco. Wake early & enter Machu Picchu for sunrise. Learn more about Machu Picchu on a tour, then explore. Hotel (B) Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar Day 11: Depart Cusco. It’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your travel mates as your trip ends after breakfast. (B)
•
Start Lima
Finish Cusco
Trip Trip plus Start only Inca Trail Lima US$ pp* US$ pp*
2015 Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec
22 7 12 5 10 17 2 7 14 30 5 26 ● 28 ■
1 17 22 15 20 27 12 17 24 10 15 5 7
2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135
2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335
Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Apr Apr
12 19 4 9 3 22 5 19
2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135
2335 2335 NA NA 2335 2335 2335 2335
2016 Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr
2 9 25 30 22 12 26 9
INCLUDED MEALS
17
Finish Cusco
Trip Trip plus only Inca Trail US$ pp* US$ pp*
2016 Sep Sep Sep Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan Jan
16
10 breakfasts (B), 2 lunch (L), 4 dinners (D)
Code: LICU/LICUT 2015/16/17
• • • •
Day 5: Puno. Catch a lift on a triciclo before cruising Lake Titicaca to the island of Taquile & the floating Uros Islands. Meet locals & see their handmade crafts. Hotel (B, L, D) Ride on a triciclo!
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
1 SACRED VALLEY
CUSCO 3
Coast
4 World Heritage sites visited
10
1
INCA TRAIL Ollantaytambo Andes
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Lima. Meet your Contiki Team & group this morning before checking out the city sights. Made up of 43 districts with their own flair, bustling Lima is not short of things to do & with a free afternoon the city’s yours to explore. Hotel (D) See the Historic Centre, Barranco & Mira Flores
Rainforest
AGUAS CALIENTES 1 Lima
SNAPSHOT
Brazil
PERU
Apr May May Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Dec Dec
23 7 21 4 18 2 30 13 27 10 24 8 22 5 19 3 24 ▲
May May May Jun Jun Jul Aug Aug Sep Sep Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec Jan
3 17 31 14 28 12 9 23 6 20 4 18 1 15 29 13 3
2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135 2135
2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335 2335
Jan Jan Feb Feb
17 24 7 21
2135 2135 2135 2135
2335 2335 NA NA
2017 Jan Jan Jan Feb
7 14 28 11
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$305. Start Lima 8:00am & end Cusco 11:00am. Note: Included flight times are subject to alteration. Note: The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance. ●
Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Cusco.
■
Trip spends New Year’s Eve in Puno.
▲ Trip spends Xmas in Arequipa & NYE Sacred Valley.
For travel insurance see p.66. Explore More: Have a few more days? Check out our Peru Uncovered & end your trip in Lima.
INCLUDED MEALS (TREKKING OPTION) 10 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 4 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 1 internal flight & transfers • Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • City tour of Arequipa & visit the Santa Catalina Convent • Hot spring swim in Chivay • Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha • Walking tour of Cusco Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with • VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ INCA-PANORAMA
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
57
FESTIVALS
BE A PART OF THE WORLD’S BIGGEST PARTY CARNIVAL ON THIS WHIRLWIND EYE-OPENING 5-DAY ADVENTURE IN RIO DE JANEIRO. 1 TRIP / 5 DAYS
INCLUDED
Rio Carnival ......................................................p.58
• Twin share accommodation, or a single room for a little extra • Breakfast each day, plus included lunches & dinners
contiki.com/festivals-short-stays-latin-america
• Included activities like a cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain & a boat cruise in Rio
We Love WiFi – stay connected with WiFi at most overnight stops
• Sambadromo ticket also included • ME Time – your chance to explore on your own or try our awesome optional activities • An experienced Trip Manager plus knowledgeable English speaking Local Guides
SNAPSHOT
4
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION 4 nights twin-share hotel
7
INCLUDED MEALS 4 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 2 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager • Sightseeingtours • Local taxes & service charges
FESTIVAL
RIO CARNIVAL 5 DAYS - 1 COUNTRY FROM US$2089 PP*/US$418 P/DAY* SAVE
FOR GREAT SAVINGS VISIT CONTIKI.COM/DEALS
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Carnival tickets & transfer • Sugarloaf Mountain visit • Rio boat trip & BBQ ME TIME OPTIONS M Favela tour M Hanggliding M Entry to Christ the Redeemer CODE: RIOC
1 World Heritage site visited CONTIKI.COM/ RIO-CARNIVAL
Day 1: Arrive Rio de Janeiro. Bem-vindo/Welcome to Rio de Janeiro, it’s time to get this Carnival started in South America’s most vibrant city. Check-in to your hotel this afternoon, then head out to explore. This afternoon, meet up with your Trip Manager & fellow travel buddies before heading out for a Brazilian feast. Hotel (D) Day 2: Rio de Janeiro. Today you can opt to visit Corcovado Mountain & the Christ the Redeemer statue or view the other side of Rio with a favela tour. Next we are off to the Sambadrome Parade! The buzz & energy starts as soon as you walk in. Get ready for the party of a lifetime until the parade finishes at 4:00am when we will head back to the hotel. Hotel (B) M Favela tour M Christ the Redeemer Day 3: Rio de Janeiro. Time to relax, recap and enjoy the beach, after the previous night we know
that you need to rejuvenate the body & take it easy. This afternoon we go…1299ft up! We are visiting Sugarloaf Mountain. Get ready to climb the mountain in glass-panelled cable cars to the summit for more astounding views of the city & its beaches. This afternoon chill on the beach or enjoy a spot of shopping. Hotel (B) Sugarloaf Mountain M Hang gliding
•
Day 4: Rio de Janeiro. Today we will be looking at Rio from a different perspective. The boat cruise is the perfect way to get out, inhale the fresh ocean air and see a few sights with your now close buddies. With a delicious BBQ on board to indulge into, you’ll be floating on bliss. Hotel (B,L,D) Day 5: Depart Rio de Janeiro. Your Carnival experience ends after breakfast, where it’s time to say goodbye to Rio & swap addresses with your new travel buddies. (B)
SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN
HIGH ENERGY
LOVE TO LET LOOSE, DISCOVER EVERYTHING FROM MAYAN RUINS TO BEACHES & PARTY TILL THE SUN COMES UP? EXPERIENCE THE CULTURE, TASTES & HISTORY OF COLOURFUL MEXICO ON A HIGH ENERGY TRIP, THE TRAVEL STYLE THAT’S ALL ABOUT ACTION-PACKED DAYS & PARTY-FILLED NIGHTS. 3 TRIPS / 6–13 DAYS
INCLUDED
Mexico Grande.......................................... p.60
• Twin-share rooms, or single rooms for a little extra for some extra privacy • Breakfast daily, plus lots of other included meal experiences
Mexican Fiesta.......................................... p.62 Yucatan Highlights .................................. p.63
• Sightseeing tours of all major cities
contiki.com/high-energy-latin-america
• A modern air-conditioned coach • ME Time – explore in your own time, or take it up a notch with hand-picked optional activities
We Love WiFi – stay connected with WiFi at most overnight stops
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
59
MEXICO
HIGH ENERGY
13 DAYS - FROM US$2669 PP*/US$206 P/DAY* SAVE
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$230. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
CANCUN
JALISCO
3 Puerto Vallarta 3
GUANAJUATO Tequila 1 1 guanajuato 1 Guadalajara MEXICO
MERIDA 1 YUCATÁN
Playa del Carmen GULF OF MEXICO QUINTANA ROO
2 MEXICO CITY MICHOACÁN
5 World Heritage sites visited
Belize Guatemala
Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Plane PACIFIC OCEAN
CANCUN
MEXICO GRANDE
SNAPSHOT
12
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION 12 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
18
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Mexico City to Guanajuato. Meetup with your Contiki Team & drive to the beautiful colonial city of Guanajuato. This afternoon explore the winding streets & subterranean passageways of this UNESCO World Heritage city. View the romantic “Callejon de Beso” & hear the legend about the two lovers. Later, see the cast-iron-& glass Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel where you’ll have a chance to shop for local sweet treats. Hotel (D) Walking tour Guanajuato Visit the Hidalgo Market M Visit the Mummy museum
• •
Day 2: Guanajuato to Guadalajara. Todaywe head to the city the locals call the “Pearl of the West”, Guadalajara! Take a closer look at buildings & plazas filled with great murals & history. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic centre, where you’ll visit the four main squares, inside city hall & the magnificent cathedral. Tonight we hit the town & take in a live Mariachi show, known as the emblematic sound of Mexico. Hotel (B) Guidedtour of Guadalajara Listen to a live Mariachi band
• •
Day 3: Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta. We’ll wind through the mountain areas of Jalisco on our way to the beach town of Puerto Vallarta, taking in views of the Ceboruco volcano, which last erupted over 100 years ago. In the early afternoon, we’ll hit the beach & the local scene in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy a drink on the sand or relax beachside before dinner at a favourite spot. Hotel (B, D) Seethe Ceboruco volcano Guidedtour of Puerto Vallarta
• •
Day 4: Puerto Vallarta. The day is all yours to explore the beachside restaurants & markets or take on the day ziplining through the jungle. Soak up the sun & relax under a cool beach umbrella. Hotel (B) M Extremezipline adventure Day 5: Puerto Vallarta. This morning maybe give surfing a go in a hidden beach along the bay. You could also opt to explore the Marietas Islands for wildlife on an eco-tour. The islands, made famous by oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, provide the perfect environment for snorkelling & kayaking. Tonight maybe take in a performance over dinner on an optional boat ride in the bay. Hotel (B) M Surfingsafari Day 6: Puerto Vallarta to Tequila. Todayit is all about tequila where we will not only have the chance to drink it but learn more about it too. We head to the picturesque town of Tequila where we will learn all about the tequila-making process from plant to barrel, visit a tequila factory & of course, indulge in a tequila tasting. Later we’ll enjoy a local meal. Hotel (B, D)
•
INCLUDED MEALS
12 breakfasts (B), 6 dinners (D)
Tequiladistillery visit & tasting
Day 7: Tequila to Mexico City. Return to Mexico City through the charming countryside of the colonial heartland. We’ll make our way through agricultural districts that lead to bustling Mexico City, the largest city the country & the oldest capital city in North America. Hotel (B ) Day 8: Mexico City. Start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Afterwards, get back to Mexico City & visit the unique floating gardens & markets of Xochimilco. Then, it’s off through “The City of Palaces” to see the ancient ruins & colonial-influenced, yet modern, architecture. Hotel (B, D) Guidedtour of Teotihuacan Float through the canals of Xochimilco on a trajinera Visit Coyoacan, birthplace of Frida Kahlo
• • •
Day 9: Mexico City to Merida. Leave behind the buzz of Mexico City & fly to the beautiful white-stone city of Merida. Tour the city’s gorgeous colonial buildings & Government Palace before indulging in a mouthwatering Yucatecan meal. Hotel (B, D) Walking tour of Merida’s sights Horse & carriage ride
• •
Day 10: Merida to Cancun via Chichen Itza. Immerse yourself in Mayan history on a guided tour at Chichen Itza – the country’s spectacular ancient Mayan city. This afternoon we arrive in legendary Cancun with its endless shopping, nightlife & outdoor hub. Hotel (B) Guided tour of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza Swim in a cenote (sink hole)
• •
Day 11: Cancun & Playa del Carmen. We’lltake a day trip to the beach playground of Playa del Carmen. Take a stroll along Quinta Avenida & the stunning beach while enjoying the friendly local hospitality. Fill your day with everything from snorkelling the clear blue waters, hanging out in open-air cafés & restaurants, stopping for a beer or two with the locals, or people watching. You can even take a ferry across to the island of Cozumel before heading back to Cancun. Hotel (B) VisitPlaya del Carmen
•
Day 12: Cancun. Soak up all the Cancun action you want today – swim through a jungle lagoon, snorkel, or take a day trip to beautiful Isla Mujeres for some delicious seafood & sightseeing. Then for your last night, party in great bars & dance clubs ‘til the sun comes up. Hotel (B, D) M Snorkelling & zipline adventure
Code: MEXG 2015/16/17 Start Mexico City
Finish Cancun
Total Start Cost Mexico US$ pp* City
Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov Dec Dec
13 3 1 29 26 17 31
2669 2669 2669 2669 2669 2669 2669
1 22 19 17 14 5 19 ●
Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Jun
28 25 10 24 28 2
2669 2669 2669 2669 2669 2669
2016 Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May
16 13 27 12 16 21
Total Cost US$ pp*
Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
23 7 21 11 1 29 27 24 15 29
2669 2669 2669 2669 2669 2669 2669 2669 2669 2669
Jan 26 Feb 23
2669 2669
2016
2015 Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
Finish Cancun
Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
11 25 9 30 20 17 15 12 3 17 ■
2017 Jan 14 Feb 11
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$935. Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Cancun approx. 11:00am. ● Trip spends Xmas in Mexico City. ■ Trip spends Xmas in Merida.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
MEXICO CITY
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & Driver team • Modern, air-conditioned coach • 1 internal flight & transfer • Sightseeing tours of all major cities • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Relax & take in the sights on a horse drawn carriage ride in Merida • Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza • Trajinera cruise Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M MarietasEco-discovery M Pirateof the bay M Mayanculture adventure complete with ziplining, rappelling, canoeing & lunch! See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
LOCAL CULTURE Mexico introduced chocolate to the world. Look out for Ibarra, it’s a rich tasting Mexican chocolate laced with cinnamon. Yum!
Day 13: Depart Cancun. YourMexican adventure ends this morning & it’s time to swap email addresses & say farewell to your new friends. (B)
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ MEXICO-GRANDE
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
61
HIGH ENERGY
MEXICO CITY
SNAPSHOT
JALISCO
8
MEXICAN FIESTA
8 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
9 DAYS - 1 COUNTRY FROM US$1735 PP*/US$193 P/DAY*
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
Puerto 3 Vallarta
GUANAJUATO Tequila 1 1 guanajuato 1 Guadalajara MEXICO
2 MEXICO CITY MICHOACÁN
SAVE
12
PAY EARLY & SAVE UP TO US$170. SEE P.25 FOR DETAILS
4 World Heritage sites visited
1 or more nightstops
INCLUDED MEALS 8 breakfasts (B), 4 dinners (D)
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & Driver team • Modern, air-conditioned coach • Sightseeing tours of all major cities • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Cruise on a ‘trajinera’ & discover Xochimilco • Tourthe pyramids of Teotihuacan Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
LOCAL CULTURE Did you know Mexican children do not receive presents on Christmas Day? They receive gifts on January 6, the day on which Mexicans celebrate the arrival of the Three Wise Men.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ MEXICAN-FIESTA
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Mexico City to Guanajuato. Meetup with your Contiki Team & drive to the beautiful colonial city of Guanajuato. This afternoon explore the winding streets & subterranean passageways of this UNESCO World Heritage city. View the romantic “Callejon de Beso” & hear the legend about the two lovers. Later, see the cast iron & glass Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel where you’ll have a chance to shop for local sweet treats. Hotel (D) Walking tour Guanajuato Visit the Hidalgo Market M Visit the Mummy museum
• •
Day 2: Guanajuato to Guadalajara. Todaywe head to the city the locals call the “Pearl of the West”, Guadalajara! Take a closer look at buildings & plazas filled with great murals & history. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic centre, where you’ll visit the four main squares, inside city hall & the magnificent cathedral. Tonight we hit the town & take in a live Mariachi show, known as the emblematic sound of Mexico. Hotel (B) Guidedtour of Guadalajara Listen to a live Mariachi band
• •
Code: MEXF 2015/16/17 up the sun & relax under a cool beach umbrella. Hotel (B) M Extremezipline adventure Day 5: Puerto Vallarta. Thismorning maybe give surfing a go in a hidden beach along the bay. You could also opt to explore the Marietas Islands for wildlife on an eco-tour. The islands, made famous by oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, provide the perfect environment for snorkelling & kayaking. Tonight maybe take in a performance over dinner on an optional boat ride in the bay. Hotel (B) M Surfingsafari Day 6: Puerto Vallarta to Tequila. Todayit is all about tequila where we will not only have the chance to drink it but learn more about it too. We head to the picturesque town of Tequila where we will learn all about the tequila-making process from plant to barrel, visit a tequila factory & of course, indulge in a tequila tasting. Later we’ll enjoy a local meal. Hotel (B, D) Tequiladistillery visit & tasting
•
Day 7: Tequila to Mexico City. Return to Mexico City through the charming countryside of the colonial heartland. We’ll make our way through agricultural districts that lead to bustling Mexico City, the largest city the country & the oldest capital city in North America. Hotel (B )
Day 3: Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta. We’ll wind through the mountain areas of Jalisco on our way to the beach town of Puerto Vallarta, taking in views of the Ceboruco volcano, which last erupted over 100 years ago. In the early afternoon, we’ll hit the beach & the local scene in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy a drink on the sand or relax beachside before dinner at a favourite spot. Hotel (B, D) Seethe Ceboruco volcano Guidedtour of Puerto Vallarta
Day 8: Mexico City. Start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Afterwards, the day is yours to jump into the city’s high energy to explore its sidewalk cafés, bazaars, boutiques & museums. Hotel (B, D) Guidedtour of Teotihuacan
Day 4: Puerto Vallarta. The day is all yours to explore the beachside restaurants & markets or take on the day ziplining through the jungle. Soak
Day 9: Depart Mexico City. Thismorning the trip ends & it’s time to say farewell to your new friends. (B)
• •
•
Start Mexico City
Finish Mexico City
Total Start Cost Mexico US$ pp* City
Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
9 30 27 25 22 13 27
1735 1735 1735 1735 1735 1735 1735
1 22 19 17 14 5 19 ●
Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr May
24 21 6 20 24 29
1735 1735 1735 1735 1735 1735
2016 Jan Feb Feb Mar Apr May
16 13 27 12 16 21
Total Cost US$ pp*
Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
19 3 17 7 28 25 23 20 11 25
1735 1735 1735 1735 1735 1735 1735 1735 1735 1735
Jan 22 Feb 19
1735 1735
2016
2015 Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
Finish Mexico City
Jun Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
11 25 9 30 20 17 15 12 3 17
2017 Jan 14 Feb 11
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge. Single room supplement add US$569. Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Mexico City approx. 11:00am.
● Trip spends Xmas in Mexico City.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
MERIDA
Playa del Carmen
YUCATÁN
GULF OF MEXICO
QUINTANA ROO
MEXICO
YUCATÁN HIGHLIGHTS 6 DAYS - 1 COUNTRY FROM US$1379 PP*/US$230 P/DAY* FOR GREAT SAVINGS VISIT CONTIKI.COM/DEALS
CANCUN
SNAPSHOT
5
1 MEXICO CITY
HIGH ENERGY
SAVE
CANCUN 3
1
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION 5 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
8
INCLUDED MEALS
3 World Heritage sites visited
5 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D)
Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Plane
INCLUSIONS
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Arrive Mexico City. Meet up with your Contiki Team & start the day with a tour of the incredible ancient ruins of Teotihuacan. Afterwards, the day is yours to jump into the city’s high energy & explore its sidewalk cafés, bazaars, boutiques & museums. Hotel (D) Guidedtour of Teotihuacan Float through the canals of Xochimilco on a trajinera Visit Coyoacan, birthplace of Frida Kahlo
• • •
Day 2: Mexico City to Merida. Leave behind the buzz of Mexico City & fly to the beautiful white stone city of Merida. Tour the city’s gorgeous colonial buildings & Government Palace before indulging in a mouthwatering Yucatecan meal. Hotel (B, D) Walking tour of Merida’s sights Horse & Carriage ride
• •
Day 3: Merida to Cancun via Chichen Itza. Immerse yourself in fascinating Mayan history on a guided tour at Chichen Itza – the country’s spectacular ancient Mayan city. This afternoon we arrive in legendary Cancun with its endless shopping, nightlife & outdoor hub. Hotel (B) Guided tour of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza Swim in a cenote (sink hole) M Mayan culture adventure complete with ziplining, rappelling, canoeing & lunch!
• •
Day 4: Cancun & Playa del Carmen. We’lltake a day trip to the beach playground of Playa del Carmen. Take a stroll along the Quinta Avenida & the stunning beach while enjoying the friendly local hospitality. Fill your day with everything from snorkelling the clear blue waters, hanging out in open-air cafés & restaurants, stopping for a beer or two with the locals, or people watching. You can even take a ferry across to the
Code: MEXH 2015/16/17 island of Cozumel before heading back to Cancun. Hotel (B) VisitPlaya del Carmen
•
Start Mexico City
Total Start Cost Mexico US$ pp* City
Aug Sep Oct Oct Nov Dec Dec
13 3 1 29 26 17 31
1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379
Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
Day 6: Depart Cancun. YourMexican adventure ends this morning & it’s time to swap email addresses & say farewell to your new friends. (B)
2016 Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr May
8 29 26 24 21 12 26 23 20 5 19 23 28
Jan Feb Mar Mar Apr Jun
28 25 10 24 28 2
1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379
Finish Cancun
Total Cost US$ pp*
Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
23 7 21 11 1 29 27 24 15 29
1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379 1379
Jan 26 Feb 23
1379 1379
2016
2015
Day 5: Cancun. Soak up all the Cancun action you want today – swim through a jungle lagoon, snorkel, or take a day trip to beautiful Isla Mujeres for some delicious seafood & sightseeing. Then for your last night, party in great bars & dance clubs ‘til the sun comes up. Hotel (B, D)
MERIDA
Finish Cancun
Jun Jul Jul Aug Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Dec
18 2 16 6 27 24 22 19 10 24 ●
2017 Jan 21 Feb 18
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
Single room supplement add US$375. Start Mexico City 7:00am & end Cancun approx. 11:00am. ● Trip spends Xmas in Merida.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger.
• An experienced & professional Trip Manager & Driver team • Modern, air-conditioned coach • 1 internal flight & transfer • Sightseeing tours of all major cities • Local taxes & service charges
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS • Tour the pyramids of Teotihuacan • Relax & take in the sights on a horse-drawn carriage ride in Merida • Turn back the clock at the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
ME TIME OPTIONS M Cenote snorkelling & off-track adventure See itinerary & visit contiki.com for even more
For travel insurance see p.66. Explore More: Have a few more days? Check out the Mexico Grande & see the Pacific Ocean.
LOCAL CULTURE Just like Champagne & Kobe beef, in order to be called “Tequila” the drink has to be produced in the Tequila region of Mexico. Time to get tasting! VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ YUCATAN
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
63
EASY PACE
TAKE THINGS SLOW WITH EASY PACE. THIS TRIP STYLE IS ALL ABOUT MAXIN’ & RELAXIN’. SNORKEL WITH SEA LIONS, CHILL OUT WITH THE GIANT GALAPAGOS TORTOISE & SOAK UP THE BEAUTY OF THIS BIO-DIVERSE LAND.
1 TRIP / 6 DAYS
INCLUDED
Galapagos Island Hopper ..................... p.65
• 2 included flights to reduce travelling time • Later starts each morning & breakfast daily • Included activities such as a snorkel & kayak adventure & BBQ feast
contiki.com/easy-pace-latin-america 64
CONTIKI.COM
• Twin-share rooms, or single rooms for a little extra privacy for a little more • An experienced Trip Manager plus expert English speaking Local Guides • ME Time – explore your way or try some hand-picked optional activities
We Love WiFi – stay connected with WiFi at most overnight stops
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS SANTA CRUZ Baltra
ISABELA
Puerto 2 VILLAMIL
Puerto Ayora 1 2 SAN CRISTOBAL Puerto BAQUERIZO MORENO
ECUADOR Guayaquil
Peru
1 World Heritage site visited
Places visited 1 or more nightstops Coach, mini-coach or van Plane or boat
EASY PACE
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
SNAPSHOT
GALAPAGOS ISLAND HOPPER
5
NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION 5 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
6 DAYS - 1 COUNTRY FROM US$2275 PP*/US$380 P/DAY* SAVE
FOR GREAT SAVINGS VISIT CONTIKI.COM/DEALS
9
INCLUDED MEALS
ITINERARY & SIGHTSEEING Day 1: Guayaquil to Isabela Island. Meetup with your Contiki crew this morning as we fly to the Galapagos Islands. Before arriving in Puerto Ayora we’ll check out the island’s old lava tunnels & see the incredible giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Later, get out on the water as we head off to Isabela Island to relax for two nights. Hotel (D) See famous Galapagos giant tortoises Visit some lava tunnels Boat ride to Isabela Island
• • •
Day 2: Isabela Island. This morning we’ll kayak with sea lions & snorkel with colourful fish (keep your eyes peeled for turtles!) This afternoon we’ll visit the Wall of Tears – you might even see some baby tortoises along the way! Later relax on the beach & take in this amazing place. Hotel (B, L) Wildlifekayaking adventure Visitthe Wall of Tears norkelling S experience
• • •
Day 3: Isabel Island to Santa Cruz Island. Relax this morning before we take off to Santa Cruz Island. This afternoon we’ll visit Tortuga Bay where we finish up with a stroll along the beach & a swim. Hotel (B) VisitTortuga Bay
•
Day 4: Santa Cruz Island to San Cristobal Island. We’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station this morning & check out the other species of tortoises & land iguanas before heading out to San Cristobal – keep an eye out for bathing sea lions! This afternoon opt to explore the islands highlands by bike. Tonight, it’s all about relaxing over drinks at one of our favourite local spots while watching the sunset. Hotel (B) Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station See the island’s famous sea lions M Guidedbiking adventure
• •
Code: GUGU 2015/16/17 Day 5: San Cristobal Island. First up: a coastal cruise to spot native birds, before hitting the water in search of puffer fish & cute sea lion pups. We’ll snorkel around Kicker Rock & its famous 143m tuff cone looking out for manta rays, starfish & maybe a Galapagos shark. Later, relax on stunning Puerto Grande beach paradise, before it’s back to town for our Galapagos BBQ feast. Hotel (B, L, D) Boat cruise & off shore bird spotting experience ExploreKicker Rock’s 143m cone Visitstunning Puerto Grande beach
• • •
Day 6: San Cristobal to Guayaquil. There’stime to relax this morning & take in the beauty of the island before heading back to the mainland where your trip ends on arrival. (B) Please note: Do not book departing flights before 6:00pm.
5 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 2 dinners (D)
Start Finish Total Start Finish Total Guayaquil Guayaquil Cost Guayaquil Guayaquil Cost US$ pp* US$ pp* 2016
2015 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
22 19 17 14 12
Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
27 24 22 19 17
2275 2275 2275 2275 2275
Jan Feb Mar Apr May
14 11 11 8 6
2275 2275 2275 2275 2275
2016 Jan Feb Mar Apr May
9 6 6 3 1
May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
29 26 24 21 18 16 13 18
3 1 29 26 23 21 18 23
2275 2275 2275 2275 2275 2275 2275 2275
Jan 13 Feb 10
2275 2275
Jun Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
2017 Jan 8 Feb 5
* Prices above are based on twin-share. If you’re travelling
solo, we can share you with a same sex room-mate at no extra charge.
INCLUSIONS • An experienced & professional Trip Manager & English speaking Local Guides • 2 internal flights & transfers • Transport in a private coach, mini-coach or van • Sightseeing tours of all major areas • Local taxes & service charges
Start Guayaquil 6:00am & end Guayaquil approx.4:00pm.
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS
Note: The Galapagos Islands have a compulsory US$100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park, a US$20 INGALA fee & a US$5 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival (subject to increase). Please ensure you have this money ready to ensure entry to these locations.
• Snorkel & kayak adventure • BBQfeast Plus all of the inclusions in the itinerary marked with •
Single room supplement add US$259.
For departure points & stay longer accommodation options see contiki.com/staylonger. For travel insurance see p.66.
ME TIME OPTIONS Look for the M symbol in the itinerary & visit contiki.com
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/ GALAPAGOS-HOPPER
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
65
GOT A QUESTION? Answers to frequently asked questions & things you need to know: WHAT’S INCLUDED? • Coach, mini-coach, van, train, canoe, flights & ‘on trip’ airport transfers listed in the Inclusions section as specified. • Accommodation, breakfasts, lunches & dinners listed in the Inclusions section on trip pages. • Sightseeing listed in the ‘Itinerary & Sightseeing’ section in each trip itinerary. Unless specified, entrance fees to these locations are included. • Experienced Contiki Trip Manager & Local Guides. • Tips for Local Guides & Local Drivers.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED? • Personal expense money. • Visas, passport fees, personal insurance & medical fees. • Excess baggage fees & tips for porters. • Sightseeing, visits & entrance fees & transport other than those specified on trip pages. • Me Time optionals such as mountain biking, speed boat rides, etc. • Lunches (unless specified under “What’s Included”) & some dinners. • Reciprocity Tax in Argentina for some nationalities – check contiki.com/contikipedia for more info. • Departure Tax at airports & boarder crossing fees in some destinations – see price panels for applicable trips. • Galapagos National Park Fee of US$100 (must be paid in cash). • Ecuador INGALA Fee of US$20. • Ecuador Isabela Island Fee of US$5.
INCLUDED FLIGHTS Flights as specified on individual trip itineraries are included as part of the price. As detailed within our Booking Conditions (p.67) under ‘General’, we rely on international conventions regarding air travel and other transportation as specified. Through enrolment and payment for your trip you acknowledge and accept such. Individual electronic tickets may not be issued to you prior to travel, due to the group nature of the air/flight booking. In such circumstances you acknowledge that by receipt of any applicable boarding pass and/or by boarding the aircraft you have accepted the airlines terms & conditions of travel, and the application of all relevant international conventions and applicable national and international law governing air transportation.
GROUP SIZE We average around 30 people per group on our Mexico trips and no more than 30 on the rest, which is the perfect size to explore with each region & get amongst it all!.
HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED? You will need to ensure you allow enough money to cover lunches & dinners not included in the trip price, souvenirs, shopping, drinks, ME Time optionals, entrance fees to some attractions & evening entertainment. When travelling within Latin America, you’ll find that you’ll often be using local currency, particularly in remote areas. The local currencies are the Nuevo Sol (Peru), Peso (Argentina), Real (Brazil), US$ (Ecuador), Colón (Costa Rica), Quetzal (Guatemala), Belize Dollar (Belize). The countries we visit rely largely on cash as opposed to credit cards or travellers cheques. In the larger cities you’ll find that established stores will accept credit cards. VISA is the most readily accepted, but stores normally charge a surcharge. Local market stalls will operate on a cash only basis. Local currency is available through cash (ATM) machines however you shouldn’t depend solely on a credit/debit card for cash as they are not accepted in all areas & ATM maintenance is often neglected. ATMs are available in Lima, Buenos Aires, Cusco, Quito, Guayaquil, San José & Mexico City & Guatemala City Airports. We recommend that you carry cash in small denominations of both US$ & local currency and
have more than one credit card. Please note that travellers cheques are generally only accepted in big cities at money exchanges or banks. USD is preferred in Argentina & should be brought with you into the country as it is not available through cash machines (ATM).
can offer personal advice. Some activities are seasonal & weather dependent as well. HOW DO I PAY? All Me Time Optionals can be paid in cash in the Local Currency except in Argentina where USD is preferred. – see “HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED”
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
ACCEPTANCE OF RISK
Baggage is restricted to only one reasonably sized backpack/suitcase & one carry-on bag & luggage policies are strictly enforced. There are some things to consider when packing for a Contiki Latin America Trip, including leaving space for on trip purchases: • Due to the large number of flights on Contiki Latin America trips, your luggage needs to meet the weight & restrictions imposed by airlines. These limits are imposed by the airlines, not by Contiki. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred by overweight luggage. Please refer to contiki.com/ luggage for more info. • You are responsible for carrying your own luggage. At times this will be in hotels without elevators (as is common in the region) or on various forms of transport. • At hotels without elevators there may be porters but this is not guaranteed. • We recommend small hand luggage for the Galapagos – Larger luggage can be stored at the Guayaquil hotel to be retrieved on return. Please keep your luggage to a maximum suitcase size of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”) & maximum weight of 20kg (44lbs), plus one small handbag / daypack that can be used as an overnight bag for Machu Picchu Pueblo (see below). Important: Every Contiki trip to Peru includes a train journey round-trip to Machu Picchu Pueblo where we stay overnight. The train operators, have strict baggage allowances. You are allowed to carry as hand luggage a day pack/backpack with a weight of no more than 5kg/11lb & with a maximum size of 62 linear inches/157cm (length + height + width). Perurail will charge for excess baggage. A daypack/ backpack of approx 26L capacity is suggested. Contiki will store your main luggage at our Cusco hotel during this time. For the new Ultimate Inca 4 day trek, a small day bag is recommended for the day hikes, with travelers being provided with an additional duffle bag for overnight essentials. This duffel will be carried by our porters. Contiki will store your main luggage at the Cusco hotel during this time. Visit contiki.com/ ultimate-inca for a full packing list. Note: Travellers can rent sleeping bags for the 4 day trek in Cusco. Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk & baggage insurance is strongly recommended. Luggage is not guaranteed or included in the cost of your trip & Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept over sized baggage on your trip. Note: Contiki is not responsible for any fees incurred as a result of overweight luggage.
PAST TRAVELLER 5% DISCOUNT
Eligibility for this discount is based on clients having booked & travelled with Contiki (or one of our Travel Corporation sister brands, visit thetravelcorporation. com for details) within 5 years of their last trip. Clients must have completed a trip before they can redeem the discount on a subsequent trip booking. Only one discount can be redeemed per past traveller annually. A deposit must be received before the discount can be applied to the booking. It is not available on pre & post-trip accommodation rates & other selected products. The discount applies to brochured prices only & cannot be combined with any non-brochured special market promotions.
ME TIME OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
WHEN DO I CHOOSE? Optionals are arranged & paid for on your trip. By leaving the final decisions until then, you can choose at the same time as your new friends. You’ll get great value as we get you great rates & your Trip Manager
It’s important that you acknowledge that at times travelling on a Contiki Latin America trip may be more adventurous & presents greater challenges than your normal daily life. The civil infrastructure, medical facilities, transportation, telecommunications & accommodation standards may not be what you are used to. Cleanliness & hygiene standards also vary. As such there is some degree of personal risk inherent in travelling Latin America & as a Contiki traveller you accept this.
BROCHURE AUTHENTICITY
We have put a great deal of effort into producing this brochure. The information given & literature produced by Contiki has been compiled with care & is published in good faith. Sometimes, because of circumstances outside our control, we have to alter some activities due to seasonal closing or repairs to buildings, etc., especially early or late in the season. If this happens, alternatives will be arranged.
DO I NEED VACCINATIONS?
At the time this brochure went to press (April, 2015) the following immunisations are recommended for travellers in Latin America by the CDC (The Centers for Disease Control): Travellers should be up to date with their routine vaccinations: Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT), Poliovirus etc. Recommended for Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Guatemala & Peru: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid & Rabies. Malaria & Yellow Fever are also an issue in Puerto Maldonado, Iquitos, Iguassu Falls. You should consult your local doctor or travel agent on what vaccinations &/or preventative medicines would be required. Don’t forget to bring with you any medication that you may require en route such as antihistamines, antibiotics, etc
DO I NEED A PASSPORT OR VISA? Depending on your nationality, you may require visas to enter certain countries included in your Latin America trip. You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas PRIOR to the departure of your trip. Any costs whatsoever regarding obtaining, replacing or changing visas whilst on your trip (including accommodation, meals, flights & transfers incurred due to associated delays) are at your own expense. Contiki is not legally permitted to knowingly allow anybody who does not have a valid visa to join a trip. Visa & other entry & exit conditions (such as currency, arrival/departure taxes, customs & quarantine regulations) change regularly. Visit contiki.com/visas for more information. Alternatively, consult your travel agent or visit your local embassy to determine which visas you require. Your passport must have at least six months validity at time of travel. Local immigration authorities may deny entry & deport people who do not meet this requirement, even if they intend on staying only for a short period. Important to consider: 1. Visas can take up to six weeks & a fee is normally charged. 2. Failure to obtain all necessary visas could cause you to miss part of your trip & will result in you incurring considerable expense & inconvenience. 3. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred as a result of you failing to obtain all necessary visas before the departure of your trip. 4. It is better to apply for all visas through your travel agent before you leave home. 5. It is very important that the entry & exit dates are correct on the visa. Your travel agent will contact Contiki for full details. 6. You will need a machine-readable passport.
NO COMPULSORY TIPPING - REWARD ONLY EXCELLENCE!
Every country in the world has different tipping customs & in Latin America, within service industries, tipping is common practice. Tipping is totally optional & only given if you feel the service has exceeded your expectations. If you think your Contiki Team have done an exceptional job then you may wish to tip them. This is entirely discretionary – it’s completely up to you. No compulsory tipping – reward only excellence!
WILL I GET MORE INFORMATION?
Upon receipt of final payment, your trip documentation will be released 21 days prior to your departure. You’ll receive a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary including full details & costs of all optional activities available on your trip. Your free Contiki document wallet* & luggage tag will be sent to you with your travel documents. The wallet is a safe place for your tickets & passport. * Contiki reserves the right to substitute an alternative travel accessory for the Contiki document wallet.
MANAGE BOOKING
Ready, set, go! You’re booked & it’s nearly go time, however just like when you’re taking a flight, it’s important you provide us with your all your details before you can travel. Check out contiki.com/ managebooking to log into your booking.
BOOKING SECURITY
Contiki has been running trips for young people since 1962 & in all countries we fully comply with local Travel Industry Laws.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Security is a major concern to all of us and the situation globally is constantly changing. Events around the world, coupled with the “Travel Advisories“ put out by various governments, may at times necessitate changes to the accommodations and itinerary or even trip cancellation. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for further information in this regard. You must accept these risks involved in travel to any country that may experience security difficulties and accept responsibility for your own travel decisions.
WHAT ELSE?
Regular passport checks are common throughout Latin America. It’s essential that when you book your trip that you provide the passport details for the passport you will be travelling with.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Cancellation, unexpected medical expenses, injuries, theft, lost luggage or money can significantly disrupt & ruin your holiday. It is compulsory that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, medical expenses, evacuation & repatriation expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money & public liability before you travel. In some instances, you may not be accepted on a Contiki holiday unless you have arranged satisfactory insurance. You also agree to indemnify us against all third-party claims, actions, damages & remedies against us arising from your participation in your holiday. For insurance details, please speak to your travel agent or Contiki when you are booking your trip.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS
Photos Courtesy of © Costa rica Jungle Lodge p.12 Swimming Pool. Photos Courtesy of © Colca Canyon Casa de Mama Yacchi p.12 Colca Canyon Lodge. Photos Courtesy of © Casona Del Lago Guatemala p.12 Hotel Swimming Pool. Photos Courtesy of © Holiday Inn Cancun p.13 Hotel Exterior. Photos Courtesy of © Claire Midgley p.14 Sealion, p.37 Iguassu Falls p.53 Giant Tortoise, p.65 Lizard. Photos Courtesy of © Sarah Duff p.15 Ziplining, p.28 Coffee Beans. Photos Courtesy of © Dan Lumelski p.47 Machu Picchu.
BOOKING CONDITIONS Once Contiki accepts your booking by confirmation thereof a contract is made between Contiki & you upon the terms & conditions set out below.
OUR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. YOUR HOLIDAY RESERVATION On receipt of your deposit, subject to availability and at our discretion, Contiki will reserve your place on your selected holiday. A contract is only made between you and us upon your booking being confirmed and accepted by us and our communication thereof to either you or your travel agent. 2. PRICE GUARANTEE Prices in this brochure are based on costs and exchange rates as at 24th March 2015. Should these costs change, it may be necessary to make a surcharge on the price of your holiday. Should the total trip price increase by more than 10% you will have the right to cancel within 7 days of notification without penalty. No surcharge in respect of cost or currency fluctuations will be made once payment of the deposit for your land trip has been received. This guarantee excludes fuel surcharges and does not apply to any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or their agencies. In exchange for these guarantees, no refund will be made if costs are reduced. 3. IF WE CANCEL OR CHANGE YOUR HOLIDAY 3.1 Contiki reserves the right to change or cancel your booking in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. For a coach holiday to operate successfully a minimum number of clients is required. Should the numbers on your holiday fail to reach this minimum Contiki reserves the right to cancel your holiday giving a minimum of 6 weeks notice. 3.2 Should change or cancellation prove necessary we will give you reasonable notice thereof, in the circumstances, and where available, offer you a comparable or better alternative. 3.3 If an alternative is not available or acceptable you will be entitled to either a full refund of monies paid by you to us or transfer to another Contiki holiday without payment of any transfer fee. 3.4 If the change or cancellation is due to force majeure (i.e. circumstances like political unrest, war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, closure of airports or ports, industrial disputes, terrorist activity, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemic or health risk, Acts of God, adverse weather conditions or other similar events beyond Contiki’s control) we will give a full refund of any monies paid to us less reasonable expenses incurred by us in respect of your booking. 3.5 Contiki is not responsible for the costs of any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations or rescheduling of any trip departure. 4. HOLIDAY DETAILS AND CONDITIONS 4.1 Throughout this brochure reference is made to the standard of accommodation, meal plans, transportation and included extras that make up your Contiki Holiday. 4.2 At the time this brochure went to press (April, 2015) all Contiki’s holidays and included extras as described on the trips pages throughout this brochure were available. 4.3 With respect to our touring program Contiki will do our best, at our discretion, to select accommodation, sightseeing trips and transportation to give you good value for money. 4.4 When winter brochures are released, these prices supersede any winter trip prices in the summer brochure 4.5 Contiki constantly strives to improve trip itineraries and features. If such improvements can be made, or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries and to substitute hotels. Contiki is not responsible for any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations. 5. LIABILITY 5.1 Your travel agent shall, on the receipt of any monies, hold such monies for you until the booking is confirmed at which time those monies shall be remitted promptly by your travel agent to us. All such monies received by us will be deposited as required by law. 5.2 We will be entitled to keep for each account any interest earned on such monies. 5.3 All monies paid by you to us through your travel agent or otherwise, whether in respect of the deposit or full payment, may be disbursed by us as and when we see fit, in respect of the services to be provided and/or fees payable under your selected holiday. The payment of a deposit or any other monies in respect of your holiday shall be deemed to be an authorisation to disburse thereof as aforesaid.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY 1.1 In order to reserve your holiday, a deposit of US$200, per person per trip, or the full amount payable if booking is made within 45 days of departure from your home country, must be submitted to Contiki by you in respect of that holiday. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. The deposit is accepted as a first instalment of the holiday price by Contiki only once the booking has been confirmed in writing by Contiki or your travel agent. 1.2 Deposit and final payment will be converted to the local currency at point of booking. Conversion is based on the prevailing exchange rate at time of full/balance payment. Please check with your Travel Agent at time of payment. 1.3 Your land reservation will be confirmed on receipt of a non refundable deposit of US$200 per person per trip, which must be within 7 days of booking or the reservation will automatically be cancelled. 1.4 Any special meal requirements will be made on a request basis only. Contiki cannot guarantee special meal requests nor will it assume any responsibility or liability if clients’ special meal requirements are not fulfilled.
1.5 Inca Trail Trek. If you wish to book a trip including the Inca Trail Trek you will be required to make an additional nonrefundable deposit at the time of booking. Your Reservations Agent will advise you of the additional amount required. Should Contiki be unable to obtain a trail pass for the date requested your additional deposit will be refunded in full. You will need your passport to enter the trail. It is important that the passport information you submit with your application is exactly the same as the passport you will use to travel to Latin America & it must have 6 months validity at the time of travel. If your information changes it can result in a penalty & cancellation of your admission to the trail. No refunds will be given. 2. PAYING THE BALANCE 2.1 The balance of the holiday price must be paid no later than 45 days before the scheduled holiday departure date from your home country which shall be by the due date stated on the confirmation issued to you by Contiki. 2.2 If payment isn’t made by the due date, Contiki may assume that you have cancelled and cancellation charges in accordance with clause 3 below will be levied by Contiki. 2.3 Tickets and other documents won’t be forwarded until full payment has been received by us. 2.4 In the case of Late Bookings made within 45 days of your departure from your home country, the full cost of the holiday will be payable immediately on booking and we reserve the right to provide all travel documents at the holiday departure point. 2.5 Contiki reserves the right to cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges should payments not be received within the above specified periods. 3. IF YOU CANCEL 3.1 Notice of cancellation must be made in writing to Contiki. 3.2 Your deposit is non-refundable upon cancellation by you. 3.3 Upon cancellation you will be liable to pay a fee to cover the estimate of cost and expenses incurred by us in the terms of the schedule set out hereunder. This is expressed as a percentage of the holiday price and is calculated as follows: PERIOD OF NOTICE CANCELLATION FEE More than 45 days notice: .................................Deposit is forfeited 45-22 days .............................................................25% of trip fare 21-8 days: ..............................................................30% of trip fare 7-1 days: ................................................................75% of trip fare Day of departure: ................................................. 100% of trip fare Where the percentage cancellation fee is less than the trip deposit, the cancellation fee will equal loss of deposit. If the reason for cancellation falls within the terms of any holiday insurance policy which you hold, then any such charges may, subject to the terms of your insurance policy, be refunded to you by the insurance company. Extra night accomodations that are cancelled within 14 days of booked date will incur a 100% cancellation fee, outside 14 days the following fees will be charged: 45-22 days .............................................................................. 25% 21-15 days .............................................................................. 30% All cancellation policies valid as at 17th April 2015 and are subject to change. Final policy will be confirmed at time of booking. 3.4 In the event that you should not be granted a visa, we have devised this unique scheme to protect you against the necessary cancellation fees detailed above. For trips costing up to US$1,000 - waiver fee US$79 per person. For trips costing over US$1,000 - waiver fee US$89 per person. Waiver fees are payable at the time of booking and are non-refundable. They do not apply to cancellations due to changes of mind or for medical reasons. To protect yourself against these and other eventualities, you should ask your Travel Agent about a suitable insurance policy. N.B. This scheme is applicable only in the event that you provide documentary proof of having a visa application refused. To be eligible for the purchase of the visa waiver insurance, clients are encouraged to do so as early as possible when they make their trip booking. If we do not hear from you or your travel agent 30 days before the trip, we will assume that your visa application has not been approved and we will have to cancel your reservation. However, you can always re-book your trip (subject to availability) should your visa approval come inside 30 days. Bookings made within 30 days without the necessary visa approvals are not eligible for this visa waiver insurance and will be subject to the standard cancellation terms and conditions. 3.5 Any cancellation of additional services booked prior to & after your trip booking, such as pre & post accommodation & transfers, that are cancelled within 14 days of the trip departure incur a 100% cancellation fee. If you have booked a trip including the Inca Trail Trek the additional deposit you paid at the time of booking is non-refundable. 3.6 These cancellation fees are in addition to any cancellation fees that may be levied by your travel agent. All Cancellation policies valid as at 17th April 2015, and are subject to change. Final policy will be confirmed at time of booking. 3.7 If flight changes are requested after the deposit has been received, or if flights are cancelled after tickets are issued, revision fees, change fees or Airline cancellation fees will be applicable and maybe in addition to the above cancellation charges. 4. IF YOU CHANGE YOUR BOOKING 4.1 If after your booking has been confirmed, you wish to change to an alternative departure date, transfer your booking to someone else who satisfies all the conditions applicable to the package or you wish to change to a different Contiki holiday, you may do so subject to a period of reasonable notice and provided the new holiday date is also in this brochure and is available. 4.2 A fee of US$30 per person will be charged for any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed unless the change increases the value of the booking. A change of trip date or trip itinerary within 45 days of departure will be treated
as a cancellation, and normal cancellation fees will apply except when the change is to an earlier departure date of equivalent or greater value in which case a US$30 per person amendment fee will be charged. 5. HOLIDAY DETAILS AND CONDITIONS 5.1 Please read the brochure carefully for those items included in the price. No allowance or refund can be made for meals, accommodation, excursions, etc. that you elect not to take, or when museums, shops, etc are closed. Hotel facilities may vary from place to place. Meals may vary in style 5.2 Clients must be aged between 18 - 35 inclusive but Contiki may, in its absolute discretion, and, in exceptional circumstances, give confirmation of acceptance of a person outside this age limit. 5.3 Contiki must be advised of any medical conditions or physical disability requiring special attention before you book your holiday. If you do not advise us at this stage, we may refuse to accept your booking. We may also refuse you if we feel that the holiday chosen is not suitable without a suitably qualified companion. Contiki will try to help you with your requirements but cannot guarantee to do so, either on our own or our suppliers’ (such as hotels, restaurants and excursions) behalf. Many of our holidays involve getting on and off coaches, walking tours and other physical activities. Some holidays may not be suitable for you if you rely on a wheelchair or have certain other disabilities. Should your disability require you to have special assistance, it is a condition of Contiki accepting your booking that you provide evidence satisfactory to us that an able-bodied person will accompany you and is able to provide any special needs or services that you may require. Contiki will not be responsible for the failure of this person to provide these services. 5.4 You are responsible for all travel arrangements and costs to/ from the point of commencement/conclusion of the holiday. 5.5 There may be times when the Contiki Representative has to make a decision in your best interests or the best interests of their group. You agree to comply with the authority and decisions of the appointed Contiki Representative and the laws of the country in which you are travelling. If you do not so comply or if, in the Contiki Representative’s opinion, you are not compatible with the general enjoyment and well being of other members on the holiday or smooth operation of the holiday itself, we reserve the right to refuse to let you continue with the holiday. We do not tolerate the possession or carriage of illegal or restricted substances (drugs). Furthermore, you agree that your fellow travellers and any Contiki Representative has the right to travel/ work in a safe environment. Any threats to their safety, well being or inappropriate behaviour by you, whether verbal or physical, will be taken extremely seriously and may result in the immediate termination of your holiday. In either event, you will be responsible for your own repatriation and related costs and have no claims against us. 5.5.1 You are responsible for any costs incurred as a result of damage or excess cleaning fees related to your accommodation. You are advised to immediately report any pre-existing damage in your room to hotel staff and/or a Contiki Trip Manager as soon as it is discovered. 5.6 Where the passenger occupies a motorcoach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither the operator or service providers, agents or co-operating organisations shall be liable for any illness, injury or death or any loss or damages or claims whatsoever arising from any accident or incident, if the safety belt is not being worn at the time of the accident or incident. 5.7 It is your responsibility to have a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates required for your selected holiday before your departure as well as any necessary vaccinations and to comply with all applicable laws. Contiki is not responsible for any costs incurred as a result of failing to obtain necessary visas. Any costs whatsoever regarding obtaining, replacing or changing visas whilst on trip (including accommodation, meals, flights and transfers incurred due to associated delays) are at your own expense. 5.8 You agree that our Contiki Trip Managers or Representatives may take photographs and films of you while you are on holiday and that these may be used in our Group brochures and/or advertising or publicity material without obtaining any further consent or payment in respect of such photographs and/or films. 5.9 Should you have a complaint in respect of the holiday, you should inform the Contiki Trip Manager or Contiki Representative during the course of the holiday and if the matter cannot be resolved after the Representative’s best endeavours to do so during the holiday, your complaint should be made in writing to Contiki as soon as is reasonably possible after the holiday but within 28 days thereof so that your complaint can be investigated. Any claims made after the 28 day period will not be considered by Contiki. If you choose to write to Contiki via the Internet, please provide your home address so that we are able to reply to you in writing. 5.10.1 The contract and all matters arising in respect hereof shall be subject to English Law, unless we agree otherwise in writing. 5.10.2 If any provision of this contract is held invalid or unenforcable by any court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be deemed to be re-written to give effect to the same purpose within the permitted limits of the law. The validity and enforcability of the other provisions shall not be affected. 5.10.3 If you are unsuccessful in any legal action instituted against us, you agree to pay all our costs, including but not limited to, attorney/client costs. 6. INSURANCE It is compulsory that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses and evacuation expenses before you travel on a Contiki holiday. We strongly recommend your insurance also covers cancellation, personal liability and loss of personal property. Please check that the insurance covers all of the activities that you are going to be participating in. Some policies exclude certain
adventure activities. This should be arranged at the time of payment of the deposit and will, in certain circumstances, cover you against loss of deposit or cancellation fees from the date of confirmation of your booking, as shown in the insurance policy. Contiki cannot be held responsible for your failure to take out appropriate insurance. You also agree to indemnify us against all third-party claims, actions, damages and remedies which may be brought against us in respect of your participation in the holiday. 7. ILLNESS OR ABSENTEEISM In the event of your withdrawal from a holiday after the commencement as a result of illness, you must obtain a medical certificate in support of any insurance claim. No refunds will be made for any absence from the trip. 8. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE HOLIDAY PRICE Airfares to and from your holiday destination, airport taxes, passport and visa fees, insurance, laundry, phone calls, beverages, meals not detailed in the itinerary, tips to Trip Managers, representatives, drivers and local guides, items of a personal nature, excess baggage, optional excursions. 9. WEATHER CONDITIONS Under no circumstances can we be held responsible for snow or weather conditions, nor can any holiday be cancelled or amended by you at any time on the basis of snow or weather conditions.
GENERAL 1. CONTRACTING PARTIES 1.1 The Booking Conditions detailed herein contain the entire contract between you and Contiki. No representation, term, warranty or condition can be expressed or implied by reference to any other writing, advertisement or conversation. This contract may only be varied in writing by a duly authorised officer or director of Contiki. 1.2 Your contract is with us as the trip operating company. At any time and at our complete discretion we may nominate to you in writing any other company or person to have the benefit of some or all of those provisions of this contract, which we may then specify, as if you had agreed the provisions concerned directly with that company or person in the first place as well as agreeing them with us. We may at our complete discretion assign all or any rights and liabilities arising under or by virtue of this or any other contract with you. 1.3 Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international conventions, national and international law, which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol & Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road & the Paris Convention 1962 for Hotels. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, ianjury, loss, damage & delay to passengers & luggage. Enrolment in & payment for a trip shall constitute agreement & acceptance by the passenger of the terms & conditions set forth in this brochure which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. 1.4 Contiki is not a carrier or hotelier nor does it own aircraft, hotels or coaches. Contiki contracts with many different suppliers throughout the world to ensure that all the components of your holiday are taken care of. Contiki accepts responsibility for the services contracted with these suppliers as they effect your holiday. Where a part of your holiday as specified in this brochure cannot be provided and a reasonable alternative not accepted, Contiki may pay compensation specific to that loss.Please also note that Contiki cannot be held responsible for the failure of any of these parties to provide facilities or services for handicapped clients (see also 5.3 under Holiday Details & Conditions). 1.5 Please note that no airline or carrier depicted or recommended in this brochure by virtue of their endorsement of this brochure represent themselves either as contracting with any purchaser of a holiday from Contiki or as having any other legal relationship with any such purchaser. 1.6 Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to print, however Contiki cannot be held responsible for printing or typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances. 2. VALIDITY The programmes advertised in this brochure are valid from August 2015 to March 2017. 3. OPERATING COMPANIES The programmes advertised in this brochure are owned and operated by: Contiki Holidays Latin America, Rue Du Manoir, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH Channel Islands. Please note that Contiki utilises ground handlers to assist with the operation of our products. These ground handlers include: Journey Mexico (Mexico, Belize, Guatemala), Galakiwi (Ecuador & Galapagos Islands), Costa Rican Trails (Costa Rica), & Altura Travel (Argentina, Brazil & Peru). 4. CONTIKI IS REPRESENTED IN: Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA. Contiki is a registered trademark of Contiki Tours International Ltd, Guernsey. This brochure was published in April, 2015 and supersedes any other current brochure in the market.
LATIN AMERICA 2015-17
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THE TRAVEL CORPORATION Contiki is backed by The Travel Corporation, one of the world’s most successful family-owned travel companies. Our passion and commitment for giving our travellers life changing experiences is in our blood. It also means you get the peace of mind that comes from a financially strong group with global scale. But don’t take our word for it, check out the awards we’ve won at thetravelcorporation.com.
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