CE N TR A L & S OU TH
SMALL GROUP adventures
LOCAL LEADER knowledge
RESPONSIBLE travel experts
2019
AMERICA
E R O M , No w e h t , r e v e n a h t e r o m s d e e N W or l d E L P O E P D I P E R T IN
n e p o e b s u o i r u be c s s e l r be f e a d e g n e l l a h c be d i p e r b e in t
For some, being Intrepid means pushing one step further across a remote mountain range. For others, it’s trying street food for the first time. It’s sitting cross-legged on the floor sharing a meal with a local family, it’s choosing to travel with a bunch of strangers. It’s an attitude. A willingness to take yourself far from home and open up to new experiences. To be curious, challenged, fearless and open. To be alive.
be OPEN
We travel so we can learn something new about the world that we live in, not to confirm what we think we know. By being open, by challenging our beliefs, we can change how we see the world and may just be able to inspire others to do the same.
be CURIOUS
Which do you trust more: an online review or a stranger’s smile? With a wealth of information available at the touch of a button, it’s easy to forget that the best stories often have no formula. Sometimes the best guide is your gut, a hunch beats a recommendation and the biggest changes come from chances.
be FEARLESS
It’s a mix of anticipation, excitement and fear. You’re heading into the unknown. It’s terrifying for some, second nature to others, and it’s healthy. You’re doing something different, something worthwhile, and though you’ll one day look back on it, you’ll never look back.
be challenged
You know that little voice in your head telling you to just give it a go? Listen to it. We all have boundaries and we all have a responsibility to push them, whatever that looks like.
FIND OUT MORE AT
intrepidtravel.com/be-intrepid
SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES Travel should be about more than just ticking boxes. Sure, the highlights take our breath away, but it’s the simple, spontaneous moments away from the crowds that stay with us the most. Whether it’s exchanging stories at a local homestay or cramming into a tiny restaurant hidden away from the main streets, the real magic happens during moments that can only be experienced as a small group.
5 Benefits OF SMALL GROUPS Real life experiences Travel should deliver moments when you know you’re truly alive and experiencing something special. It could be the first glimpse of something you’ve only ever seen on postcards, but it’s more likely to be finding yourself in the middle of a village football game or sharing laughs with a local family in their home. These kinds of experiences just aren’t possible when travelling with a big group.
Travel like a local We travel the world to keep things local. Wherever we can we’ll use experienced local leaders, stay in small, locally run accommodation and eat at local restaurants. This means that you’re not only getting a real, authentic experience, but also contributing to the local economy.
Travel made easy The world’s a big place, but we’ve put years of research into our itineraries, operators and accommodation so you can focus on having real life experiences. Travelling in a small group means you can spend more time exploring and leave the details to people who live and breathe your style of travel.
Not too big, not too small Our groups are small enough to feel like you’re exploring a destination independently, but big enough to create a good social vibe. Numbers vary depending on where and how you’re travelling, but the average size of a tour is twelve people, which opens up opportunities for experiences the big groups only dream of.
The right balance Travelling in a small group means leaders can strike the perfect balance between planned activities and ‘you time’. There’s always an itinerary, but there are also opportunities to be spontaneous and make the journey a little more you. With the flexibility afforded by being in a small group, you’ll spend more time connecting with the people and places we visit.
Central & South America 5
TRIP STYLES Every one of our trips has a particular style. It’s a way to help pick the adventure that best suits you, whether you’re after just the
Look out for these symbols
essentials, a whole bunch of inclusions or a little bit of both. The choice is yours.
Each of our trips has a physical
Basix: for travellers on a budget These are amazing experiences at a great price. Basix trips use simple, convenient accommodation and local transport where
rating, so you can tell how physically exerting a trip is and how fit you’ll need to be to enjoy it. As a guide:
possible, and include plenty of free time. Pick and choose Easy and relaxing
inclusions to fit your budget.
Original: Intrepid, as it’s always been These are the trips we’ve built our reputation on. Original trips offer a mix of included activities and free time to explore on your own. They
Bring your walking shoes An average level of fitness required
use centrally located hotels and come with a few meals along the way.
Action-packed, physically demanding
Comfort: because you deserve it
Full-on active adventure for the more agile traveller
We’ve smoothed away adventure travel’s rougher edges to craft a style of travel that has an added degree of… comfort, really. Enjoy a more relaxed pace, comfortable accommodation and lots of included activities. For more information on our themed trips, visit: intrepidtravel.com/trip-styles
Check out our best-selling trips
TRIP themes Are you chasing a culinary journey, or dreaming of an adventure you and the kids can all enjoy? Think a destination is best seen from the saddle of a bike, or prefer the deck of a small ship with the ocean breeze in your hair? No matter what kind of traveller
These itineraries also run in the opposite direction
you are, we’ve got a variety of themed trips to suit every taste.
Food
Expeditions
Cycling
Short Breaks
Family
Festivals
Adventure Cruising
Overland
Sailing
18 to 29s
Active For more information on our themed trips, visit: intrepidtravel.com/theme
6 Central & South America
A combination of two or more of our adventures
Exciting new additions to our current range of itineraries
local leaders Born and bred in the regions we visit, our leaders are passionate locals who do so much more than just show you the sights. They know the history of a place, as well as its shortcuts, and are full of insider info. They can lead you to cool backstreet bars and suggest the best way to make the most of free time. On top of that, they bridge language barriers, can point you in the direction of a working ATM and just generally make your journey as seamless as possible. With our local leaders, you don’t just see a destination, you experience it. FIND OUT MORE AT
intrepidtravel.com/about/meet-intrepid-leaders
BE RESPONSIBLE With great travel comes great responsibility. The world is an amazing place and we do what we can to keep it that way. That is why at Intrepid everything is done with four principles in mind: be kind, be aware, be sustainable and be fair. For us, the only way to travel is responsibly, and we want to give our travellers the ability to be responsible too. FIND OUT MORE AT
intrepidtravel.com/be-responsible
The Intrepid Foundation was set up to help local organisations improve livelihoods through sustainable travel experiences. It now supports over 35 local, grassroots organisations around the world and empowers travellers to have a positive impact on the communities they visit. Travellers can give back by supporting a range of projects and not-for-profit organisations. Find out how you can help at theintrepidfoundation.org
be KIND Our travellers and staff are a caring bunch, especially when it comes to animal welfare. That’s why we made the decision to ban elephant rides across all our trips – the first global tour operator to do so – after funding some eye-opening research led by World Animal Protection. We’ve also made it our mission to educate the travel industry in the hopes they adopt better animal welfare practices – for all animals.
be AWARE The complicated, uncomfortable reality is that orphanage tourism has led to an industry that is forcibly institutionalising children to attract tourist dollars. It may seem counterintuitive, but visits and donations to these sorts of organisations often do more harm than good. After working closely with researchers, we made the decision to stop visiting orphanages on our trips.
be SUSTAINABLE Sustainability has always been at the core of how we travel and is part of our business at every level. We’ve been carbon neutral since 2010, and our business-wide carbon offsetting initiatives, efforts to minimise single-use plastics on trips and emphasis on minimising impact on local communities are all part of our commitment to the UN Global Compact, and also to the world we’re so lucky to explore.
be FAIR At Intrepid, we know our differences are our strength. This is why we’re committed to promoting gender equality, diversity and inclusion across our business. Whether it’s by highlighting positive stories of gender equality like East Africa’s first female truck driver, pushing for a global gender balance of local leaders on trips, or showcasing traveller stories of diversity in our content, we want to make it clear that the future of travel can be fair for everyone.
In 2018, Intrepid celebrated becoming a certified B Corp, making us the largest in the travel industry. More than just a logo, B Corp certification is a rigorous process that helps businesses to be better, and customers to easily identify the difference between good business and good marketing. It demonstrates our commitment to creating positive change for our planet, our people and the local communities we visit. Central & South America 9
CUBA MEXICO
1
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
JAMAICA
BELIZE COSTA RICA
GUATEMALA
2 PANAMA COLOMBIA
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ECUADOR
BRAZIL PERU BOLIVIA
CHILE ACONCAGUA
5 6
URUGUAY
VALLEY OF TEARS
ARGENTINA
3 PATAGONIA
FALKLAND ISLANDS
4 10  Central & South America
what’s hot We avoid picking favourites, like any good parent, but there’s a lot to cover in this brochure so here’s a taste of what we’re most excited about for 2019. From expeditions in the remote Andes to wildlife-spotting in the Costa Rican cloud forest, there’s a red-hot adventure to suit every Intrepid traveller.
1
2
3
Guatemala Experience
Costa Rica to Panama
Highlights & Gems of Patagonia
Discover Guatemala’s magic in palatial jungle ruins and down remote rivers, across highland lakes and into traditional villages.
Mixing adventure with relaxation and plenty of wildlife-spotting, this trip through Costa Rica and Panama gives a great snapshot of the region.
Granite peaks impale the horizon and glaciers feed into perfect blue lakes. Visit the world’s hottest – and coldest – outdoor playground.
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5
6
Falkland Islands Expedition: Past & Present
Argentina Expedition: Aconcagua Base & Mt Bonete
Argentina Expedition: Trek Mendoza & the Valley of Tears
Explore the many battle sites of the Falklands War and get up close and personal with a variety of penguins on these unique islands.
Trek through the Andes to Aconcagua’s high-altitude base camp then fall in love with Mendoza, Argentina’s vinous heartland.
Trek to the site of one of the world’s most famous plane crashes and pay your respects amid the bittersweet beauty of the remote Andes.
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Okay, it may not seem like the most exciting announcement in the world, but you can now create an online account and save your favourite trips. Bucket lists are for dreamers, shortlists are for doers, so take the first step towards your next adventure and sign up for an account by visiting:
intrepidtravel.com/shortlist Central & South America 11
SOUTH AMERICA Colourful, candid and everything in between, South America beats to the rhythm of an infectious, eternal drum. It’s the sequined heat of Carnival and a cool breeze blowing across the Andes, a fiery Argentine tango and the soft silence of an Ecuadorian cloud forest.
WEATHER Rio de Janeiro Bogota Cusco Patagonia Quito Santiago Buenos Aires
Hot & dry 25-35ºC Hot & wet 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Warm & wet 20-25ºC Cool 15-20ºC Cold & dry 0-15ºC
INCA TRAIL & PERU TREKKING THE BAHAMAS MEXICO
Follow in the footsteps of the Inca on an unforgettable hiking adventure along the Inca Trail, or on one of the newer routes on offer. Climb through lush cloud forests, subtropical jungle and crumbling Inca monuments, and navigate narrow, winding staircases and sheer mountain passes in pursuit of an unrivalled final destination: the epic ruins of mighty Machu Picchu. DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
CUBA
BELIZE
PUERTO RICO
HONDURAS
GUATEMALA EL SALVADOR
MARTINIQUE ST LUCIA
NICARAGUA
COSTA RICA PANAMA
COLOMBIA
Aguas Calientes
ECUADOR GALAPAGOS ISLANDS (ECUADOR)
Machu Picchu PERU
B
Inti Punku (Gateway of the Sun)
Machu Picchu
Choquetacarpo Kilometre 82 Winaywayna
2nd Pass
Inti Punku Pacaymayo
Phuyupatamarca
PERU
BOLIVIA
Ollantaytambo Inca Bridge
Kuychicassa
1st Pass Warmiwanusca
URUGUAY
Chancachuco CHILE
Inca Quarry Trail Classic Inca Trail Railway line Archaeological site
Yunkachimpa
Wayllabamba
Perolniyoc
ARGENTINA
Rafq’a Urubamba River
CLASSIC INCA TRAIL
INCA QUARRY TRAIL
With its spectacular natural scenery and pre-Columbian ruins, the Inca Trail is undoubtedly a beacon of Peru’s trekking scene. While it may attract thousands of avid hikers each year, please be aware that this is no idle Sunday afternoon stroll. The trek is rated moderate, and any reasonably fit person should be able to complete it, but the relentless uphill (and downhill) hiking can be tough going. The fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy it.
For something a bit more off the beaten track, consider doing the Inca Quarry Trail. Less established than the Inca Trail, this trek offers the same magical scenery, visits three smaller archaeological sites the other trails don’t, is less touristy and offers more chances for interaction with local communities. Another bonus is that it doesn’t require permits – so once you book, you’re set.
THE NITTY GRITTY
NOT THE HIKING TYPE? That’s fine, we’re not going to drive you up the mountains with a cattle prod. On every Intrepid trip that includes the Inca Trail, you can always opt out of the hike. Simply pick whichever Peru trip you’re keen on and specify when booking that you’d prefer the train option. There is no extra cost for this, though please note that fees may apply if you decide to change to the train option after your Inca Trail permit has already been purchased. While your group mates are hiking, you'll have more time to relax and explore the unique city of Cusco.
RESPONSIBLE TREKKING Intrepid Travel is absolutely committed to ensuring the environmental sustainability of the amazing destinations we visit, and we take our social responsibilities very seriously. In Peru, we have committed to paying our porters and guides a fair wage and supplying them with the necessary equipment and resources to undertake their work safely. We also support several community initiatives aimed at promoting the long-term sustainability of the region's environment and preserving the traditional cultures of its communities.
In order to preserve the Inca Trail, the Peruvian authorities restrict available permits to only 500 per day. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so booking well in advance is imperative. For this reason, if you want to hike the Inca Trail, it’s best to supply the full details of the passport you will be travelling on at the time of booking. We endeavour to purchase your permit within four days of receiving all necessary information and relevant payment. Please keep in mind that the Inca Trail is closed during February for maintenance. Very important: Since permits are non-changeable and non-refundable, please consult with Intrepid before changing any passport details after booking as this may result in your permit being invalidated. If we can’t secure Inca Trail permits, you can: }} Change to another one of our fantastic trips or choose a different departure date without incurring any Intrepid penalties. }} Hike the equally incredible Inca Quarry Trail, which includes a day trip to Machu Picchu. }} Stay two nights in Cusco, then travel to Aguas Calientes by train and spend the day exploring Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.
Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/south-america 13
ORIGINAL Combo Trips The possibilities are endless in South America, so why not combine adventures and get the most out of this incredible continent. Our combination trips offer something for everyone.
TURN THESE TRIPS…
GGS Q
GGS A
GG S D
GGTBC
GG S H
Sacred Land of the Incas 15 days, see page 19
G GSW
Peru Encompassed 21 days, see page 21
GGSV
Classic Peru 9 days, see page 24
GGTF
Inca Trail 8 days, see page 20
G GSS
Southern Ecuador Highlights 9 days, see page 29
G GSC
Argentina & Brazil Adventure 10 days, see page 51
Bolivia Highlights 12 days, see page 47
Best of Galapagos 10 days, see page 41
Cafe Colombia 9 days, see page 58
Explore Colombia 10 days, see page 57
…INTO A COMBO TRIP G G T F + G G S Q = GGSYC
Galapagos & Peru Adventure* 24 days, Quito to La Paz. See page 42
G G SQ + G G S V = GGSUC
Explore Peru & Bolivia 25 days, Lima to La Paz. See page 44
G G T F + GGTBC = GGT WC
Galapagos & Inca Trail Adventure* 17 days, Quito to Cusco. See page 42
G G SD + G G S W = GGSGC
Explore Peru, Argentina & Brazil* 18 days, Lima to Rio de Janeiro. See page 45
G G SA + G G S W = GGSAC
Ultimate Peru, Argentina & Brazil* 30 days, Lima to Rio de Janeiro. See page 46
G G SA + G G TF = GGSFC
Peru & Galapagos Explorer* 30 days, Lima to Quito. Enter GGSFC on our website
G G SD + G G TF = GGSDC
Best of Peru & Galapagos 18 days, Lima to Quito. Enter GGSDC on our website
G G SS + G G SC = GGSSC
Best of Colombia 17 days, Bogota to Bogota. See page 59
GGTF + GGSH
= GGSHC
Highlights of Ecuador 17 days, Quito to Quito. Enter GGSHC on our website
*Connecting flights between trips not included
14 ORIGINAL Combo Trips
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
GGTF
G G TF
Isla Isla Baltra Santa Cruz
Isla Isabela Isla Floreana
Isla San Cristobal
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Guachaca Tayrona National Park
Cartagena GGSS
Barichara Medellin
GGSC
Coffee Estancia
COLOMBIA
Bogota
Salento
Otalvo Quito ECUADOR
Guayaquil Vilcabamba Cuenco
GGSH
PERU
GGSD
Amazon Jungle Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes Ollantaytambo Cusco
GGTBC
Lima Pisco
GGSQ
Nazca Colca Canyon
BOLIVIA
Puno GGSA
La Paz
Arequipa
GGSV
BRAZIL
Sucre
Potosi Uyuni
GGSW
Salar de Uyuni Rio de Janeiro Iguazu Falls Ibera Wetlands Ituzaingo
ARGENTINA
Buenos Aires
ORIGINAL Combo Trips 15
Quito ECUADOR
Amazon Lodge
Banos Cuenca
GGB E
Tumbes PERU
GGB L
Lima Paracas Nazca Colca Canyon Arequipa
Puno Lake Titicaca
Inca Trail Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley Cusco La Paz Sucre BOLIVIA Potosi
Uyuni Salar de Uyuni
San Pedro de Atacama
BRAZIL
GGBJ
Rio de Janeiro
GGBR
Salta
Ilha Grande Paraty
Iguazu Falls GGBS
CHILE
Estancia Stay
BASIX Combo Trips
ARGENTINA
URUGUAY
Buenos Aires
Colonia
TURN THESE TRIPS…
GGB E
G G BL
Ecuador to Peru Adventure 9 days, see page 28
GGBJ
Peru Essentials 21 days, see page 26
GG B S
Best of Bolivia & Argentina 15 days, see page 48
GGBR
Best of Brazil 8 days, see page 49
Best of Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil 10 days, see page 48
…INTO A COMBO TRIP GG BE + G G BL = GGBQC
Highlights of Ecuador & Peru 28 days. See page 29
G G BS + G G BR = GGBDC
Buenos Aires to Rio Explorer 17 days. See page 49
GGBE + GGBL + GGBJ + G G BS + G G BR = GGBWC GGBE + GG BL + GG BJ = GGBPC G G BL + GG BJ = GGBNC
Explore South America 42 days. Enter GGBPC on our website Adventure through Peru, Bolivia & Argentina 35 days. Enter GGBNC on our website
GGBL + GG BJ + GG BS = GGBZC
South American Highlights 44 days. Enter GGBZC on our website
GGBJ + G G BS + GG BR = GGBLC
Explore Bolivia to Brazil 31 days. Enter GGBLC on our website
GGBL + GGBJ + G G BS + GG BR = GGBTC 16 BASIX Combo Trips
Grand South America 58 days. Enter GGBWC on our website
Best of South America 51 days. Enter GGBTC on our website
Aguas Calientes
PERU
Inca Trail
Machu Picchu
GGKIC
Amazon Jungle
Lima
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley
Paracas
BRAZIL
Cusco
Nazca
Lake Titicaca Arequipa
Puno
GGKP
Rio de Janeiro
CHILE
Iguazu Falls GPKB ARGENTINA
Santiago Mendoza
COMFORT Combo Trips
Buenos Aires GPKG
Estancia Stay
TURN THESE TRIPS… G GK I C
GGKP
Peruvian Pathways 14 days, see page 25
GP KG
Majestic Peru 15 days, see page 23
GP KB
Best of Chile & Argentina 8 days, see page 50
Best of Argentina & Brazil 7 days, see page 50
…INTO A COMBO TRIP GGKIC + G P KG = GGCLC
Peru, Chile & Argentina Explorer* 21 days. Lima to Buenos Aires. Enter GGCLC on our website
G P KG + G P K B = GPKRC
Chile, Argentina & Brazil 14 days. Santiago to Rio de Janeiro. See page 52
G G KP + G P KB = GGKPC
Best of Peru, Argentina & Brazil 22 days, Lima to Rio de Janeiro, Enter GGKPC on our website *Connecting flights between trips not included
COMFORT Combo Trips 17
Sacred Valley, Peru
Machu Picchu, Peru
Inca Trail Express
PERU
7 DAYS, CUSCO TO CUSCO
Ollantaytambo
This trip allows you to choose how you want to approach Machu Picchu. Hike the Inca Trail, the Quarry Trail, or relax and take the train. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore the greatest icon of ancient South America, Machu Picchu. Take a guided tour and wander around at your own pace. The Sacred Valley is known for its steep and soaring scenery, and for its mystical significance to the Inca and the indigenous cultures that still reside here. Day 1 Cusco Get acquainted with this charming city’s intriguing blend of Inca and Spanish cultures on a guided walking tour of its lesser-known sights. This is a city steeped in history, tradition and legend, and is a perfect base for explorations into the Inca world or to enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample mate de coca (coca tea). Day 2 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Travel through the lush Sacred Valley, looking out for the maize crops covering the terraces that stretch high up the valley walls. Stop in at a local community to learn about their traditional lifestyle and maybe wrap your tongue around a few words of the Quechua language. Spend the night exploring the town of Ollantaytambo – a magnificent example of Inca urban planning. Days 3-6 Inca Trail/ Machu Picchu/Cusco Set off along the Classic Inca Trail or the lesser-known, though equally impressive,
Inca Quarry Trail. Whichever route you opt for, you’ll be following ancient paths through dense cloud forest, past Inca ruins and archaeological sites, and over challenging mountain peaks. On the final morning, climb the steps to Inti Punku – the Gateway of the Sun – and watch incredible Machu Picchu appear through the mist. Built sometime in the 15th century and rediscovered in 1911, these amazing ruins were thought to be an estate for the Inca emperor, Pachacuti. Spend a free afternoon uncovering the mysteries of these Inca ruins or simply relaxing in Aguas Calientes. Day 7 Cusco Still seeking adventure? Why not head to the Urubamba River for some mountain biking thrills. Those with weary legs may want to have lunch somewhere like Nuna Raymi, an Intrepid favourite serving up Peruvian specialities like alpaca steak and aji de gallina, before saying goodbye to this city.
18 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/peru
Inca Trail
Sacred Valley Cusco
Machu Picchu
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGTA Hike
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (3 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts) 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Train, private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Every Saturday, Sunday & Tuesday and selected Mondays. Enter GGTA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Lima, Peru
Cusco, Peru
Sacred Land of the Incas 15 DAYS, LIMA TO LA PAZ Traipse jungle trails on the lookout for monkeys, parrots, giant otters and caimans, and sleep in a lodge lit by candles and kerosene lamps. Trek through the glorious Andes or opt to take a train to Machu Picchu instead – a great excuse to stay longer in lovely Cusco. The floating reed islands of Uros on Lake Titicaca are a marvel of concept, construction and history. Take a boat tour on the world’s highest navigable lake. Day 1 Lima Arrive in Peru’s sprawling capital and unravel its fascinating history on a walking tour around the city’s major sights. Days 2-3 Amazon Jungle Fly to the frontier town of Puerto Maldonado and travel by canoe into the dense Amazon Jungle. Macaws, monkeys, peccaries, jabirus, giant otters and thousands of butterflies all coexist in this amazing ecosystem. Learn about the medicinal properties and practical uses of native plants from a local guide. Day 4 Cusco If Lima is Peru’s head, Cusco is definitely the country’s heart. A town perfectly suited to exploration by foot, discover the central plaza’s ornate colonial churches and then head for the impressive Inca ruins dotting the city’s outskirts. Day 5 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Travel by private bus through the lush terraces of the Sacred Valley, stopping en route at a local village to gain an insight into traditional Inca culture. Meet friendly locals
on a community visit before spending the night in the ancient town of Ollantaytambo – one of the few places where the Incas defeated the Spanish. Days 6-9 Inca Trail/Machu Picchu Embark on a four-day trek along the iconic Inca Trail. Take in the astounding panoramas while on high plateaux, hike through dense forests and stop to observe the ruins of ancient villages and temples. Take some time to explore awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Day 10 Cusco Get reacquainted with the city, where old and new lay side-by-side. Days 11-13 Puno/Lake Titicaca On the border of Bolivia and Peru, mystical Lake Titicaca is nestled 3800 metres above sea level, making it the world’s highest navigable lake. Cruise to the floating Uros Islands and sail to Taquile Island, where the men of the community craft handmade woollens. Days 14-15 La Paz Travel to Bolivia’s capital and take a walking tour – don’t miss the quirky Witches’ Market before finishing.
Amazon Jungle Lima
Ollantaytambo Inca Trail
Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu
PE R U
B OLIV IA
Cusco Puno
La Paz
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGSQ Hike
Lake Titicaca
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (8 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) 14 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners Plane, train, boat, canoe, local bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Every Monday & Thursday and selected Saturdays & Sundays. Enter GGSQ on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/south-america 19
cusco pisco making Learn about the legendary Pisco sour, Peru’s favourite drink, on a day tour of Cusco that takes you from market to mixing to the best part – consumption. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Inca Trail, Peru
Inca Trail
Lima
8 DAYS, LIMA TO CUSCO
PE R U
Inca Trail
Lima’s grand colonial facades, Spanish houses and endless culture make it one of the prettiest cities in Latin America to explore. The Inca Trail is a great way to approach Machu Picchu, taking in multiple Inca sites and beautiful landscapes. Cusco, one of South America’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, has an interesting blend of Inca and colonial influences and endless things to do and see. Day 1 Lima Bienvenidos! Welcome to Lima, Peru’s cosmopolitan capital. Stroll the streets of downtown Lima and see some of its best sights on a walking tour. When the sun sets, try seeking out some of Peru’s culinary specialities in the eclectic suburb of Miraflores. Day 2 Cusco Discover the sights of Cusco on a guided walking tour, visiting the Plaza de Armas, the artisan neighbourhood of San Blas and an Inca sun temple in the process. There’s also time to sample hot chocolate at the Chocolate Museum and wander around the colourful stalls of the central market. Day 3 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Drive through the terrace-carved landscape of the lush Sacred Valley. For lunch, visit a community living in the valley and learn about the local lifestyle and language. Continue your journey to Ollantaytambo where you’ll spend the night. If there’s time, you may like to see the town’s ruins – a magnificent
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley
Aguas Calientes
example of Inca urban planning. Days 4-7 Inca Trail/ Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Picchu Depending on the travel arrangements you made before the trip, the next four days will be spent doing one of the following: hiking the Classic Inca Trail, hiking the Inca Quarry Trail or staying in Cusco for another two days before taking the train to Aguas Calientes. The former highway of the Peruvian empire, both the Inca and Quarry Trail follow ancient paths through dense cloud forest, soaring green peaks and crumbling ruins. Regardless of how you get there, the sight of Machu Picchu will leave you in awe. A guide will show you around the ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters and provide some history, before you have free time to explore on your own. Day 8 Cusco Your adventure comes to a close after breakfast. Why not stay a few extra days and check out the markets, or see more nearby Inca ruins such as Sacsayhuaman or Pisac.
20 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/peru
Machu Picchu
Cusco
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGTBC Hike
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (4 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts) 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Plane, train, private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Every Friday, Saturday & Monday and selected Sundays. Enter GGTBC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Main Square, Lima, Peru
Nazca Lines, Peru
Peru Encompassed
Amazon Jungle
Lima Inca Trail
21 DAYS, LIMA TO LIMA Seeing the enigmatic Nazca Lines is an incredible experience. Are they the work of ancient civilisations or something more supernatural? You decide. The Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Witness dizzying scenery, soaring condors and the terraced crops of the locals. The Amazon Jungle is known as the world’s lungs. Get a glimpse into a wild place with one of the highest levels of biodiversity on earth. Day 1 Lima Dive into the sights and delights of Lima and let this Peruvian adventure begin. Day 2 Pisco Set out on a guided tour of downtown Lima before heading to Pisco – birthplace of the Pisco sour, Peru’s national libation. Day 3 Nazca A haven for birdlife; enthusiasts can opt to visit the Paracas National Reserve for a chance to spot pelicans, red-footed boobies and flamingos. Perhaps choose to fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines. Discover the eerie desert graveyard of Chauchilla, where skeletons lie exposed in the desert sands. Days 4-5 Arequipa Situated at the foot of imposing volcano El Misti, Arequipa is famous for its charming colonial architecture. Days 6-7 Chivay/Colca Canyon Gaze in awe at the depth of the Colca Canyon while keeping an eye out for resident Andean condors, one of the world’s largest flying birds. Days 8-10 Puno/ Lake Titicaca Cross the Andes to explore the vast
expanse of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the floating islands and learn about local culture during a homestay with a family. Days 11-12 Cusco Discover Inca ruins and baroque churches in the continent’s oldest city, Cusco. Days 13-16 Inca Trail/ Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Picchu Embark on the trek of a lifetime (Inca or Quarry Trail) to the breathtaking sight of Machu Picchu. Alternatively, you can choose to train it to these fascinating ruins. Upon arrival, learn its ancient history with a guided tour. Day 17 Cusco Shop for quirky souvenirs at local markets, hit the hills on a mountain bike, or take a break at a cafe around the Plaza de Armas. Days 18-19 Amazon Jungle Fly to Puerto Maldonado before travelling by canoe into the Amazon to stay in an eco-friendly lodge. Days 20-21 Lima Return to Lima for a final night in this cosmopolitan capital city, then bid adios to Peru.
Pisco
Ollantaytambo
Machu Picchu
PERU Nazca
Cusco
Colca Canyon Chivay Arequipa
Puno
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGSA Hike
Lake Titicaca
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (13 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), homestay (2 nts) 20 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Plane, train, private vehicle, boat, canoe, local bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Wednesdays & Sundays Enter GGSA on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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Supporting communitybased tourism We’ve partnered with the rural communities of the Sacred Valley to provide travellers with an authentic insight into the lives of indigenous locals. Share lunch with the tribe and participate in various workshops, including ceramics and chicha (corn beer) brewing. Our visits to these communities help locals improve homes, educate children and provide for families. For more info head to theintrepidfoundation.org
Cusco, Peru
Inca Trail & Amazon 12 DAYS, LIMA TO LIMA
Ollantaytambo
There’s no better place to fuel up for an Inca Trail trek than Lima, home to a booming food scene full of delicious specialities like ceviche and chicharron. Spend time with a community near Ollantaytambo and have a go at the Quechua language over a bite of the local cuisine for lunch. Explore the dark depths of the Amazon Jungle at night, looking out for caimans, parrots and peccaries with an expert local naturalist. Day 1 Lima Get acquainted with Peruvian culture in lively Lima, perhaps with a group welcome dinner in the capital’s eclectic Miraflores district. When the sun goes down, why not search out some of Peru’s intriguing local dishes. Day 2 Cusco Discover some of Cusco’s lesser-known sights on a guided walking tour. Wander out to the Inca ruins lining the city’s outskirts, browse the handicraft markets or pop into the Regional History Museum for the lowdown on local lore and legends. Day 3 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Learn about the Sacred Valley’s traditional lifestyles and spend the night exploring the town of Ollantaytambo. Days 4-7 Inca Trail/Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Picchu Choose to tackle either the Inca or Quarry Trail (must pre-book), the one-time trade routes of the ancient Peruvian empire. Trek through cloud forests, up steep mountain slopes and spend evenings camped under the stars. Otherwise,
choose to take a train to Machu Picchu where you’ll uncover the mystery of these amazing Inca ruins on a guided tour before returning to Cusco. Day 8 Cusco Take on one of the many optional activities available or lunch at Cafe Daria, which serves an employment and vocational training site for young adults with special needs. Days 9-10 Amazon Jungle Fly to Puerto Maldonado. Travel upriver by motorised canoe to an eco-friendly jungle lodge. Learn about the practical uses and medicinal properties of the endemic flora on a guided nature walk with a local guide. Keep eyes peeled for monkeys, macaws, otters and any number of other animals, then fall asleep to the rustle of the jungle’s nocturnal creatures setting out on their nightly escapades. Days 11-12 Lima Leave the Amazon behind and return to Puerto Maldonado, where a flight will take the group back to Lima.
22 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/peru
Lima
Inca Trail Machu Picchu
Amazon Jungle Sacred Valley Cusco
PE R U
Lake Titicaca
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGSEC Hike
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (6 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts) 12 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners Plane, private minibus, train, canoe DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Every Friday & Saturday and selected Mondays & Wednesdays. Enter GGSEC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Cusco, Peru
Arequipa Festival, Peru
Majestic Peru
PERU
Machu Lima Picchu
15 DAYS, LIMA TO LIMA View the Nazca Lines from above, explore colonial Arequipa and visit Taquile Island, where the men of the community make traditional woollen handicrafts. A trip through Peru wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour around the ruins as well as plenty of free time. Day 1 Lima Arrive in Peru’s coastal capital. Day 2 Paracas Take a guided walking tour of Lima’s historic centre before heading to beautiful Paracas. Day 3 Nazca Observe the wildlife of the Ballestas Islands on a boating expedition. Visit Nazca’s mysterious earth etchings or opt to view them from the air. Days 4-5 Arequipa Explore the city, constructed largely from pale volcanic rock. Days 6-7 Puno/Lake Titicaca Learn about pre-Inca burial rites at the funerary towers of Sillustani and tour the lake’s floating reed islands. Days 8-9 Cusco Join the throngs at the San Pedro market, visit the Chocolate Museum or stroll out to stone ruins. Day 10 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Visit an Inca fortress on the way to meet locals in the Sacred Valley. Day 11 Aguas Calientes Relax in Aguas Calientes or opt for a one-day Inca Trail hike. Days 12-13 Machu Picchu/Cusco Learn the history of Machu Picchu on a guided walk, then enjoy and a free day in Cusco. Perhaps return to Machu Picchu in free time (must pre-book). Days 14-15 Lima Wrap things up in Lima.
Selected Saturdays Enter GGKP on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Cusco Nazca
Lake Titicaca Puno
Arequipa Opt to hike the 1-day Inca Trail, contact us for more information
GGKP
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (14 nts)
Plane, private vehicle, train, boat
Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 13 DAYS, CUSCO TO CUSCO The ruins of Choquequirao are much larger than Machu Picchu and only receive a handful of visitors each day, meaning you often have the site to yourself. See an incredible diversity of scenery as you trek the Apurimac Valley – from cloud forests and canyons to high passes with stunning panoramic views of the Andes. Days 1-2 Cusco Dive into Cusco’s artisan markets, busy streets and historic sites. Days 3-5 Choquequirao Take in forest scenery and wildlife as you hike the Apurimac Valley to the sprawling ruins of Choquequirao. Spend time exploring this astonishing site, then visit the terraces of Pacchanta. Day 6 Maizal After climbing to a lookout for sweeping views of Choquequirao, visit an Inca terrace, then continue to Maizal. Day 7 Yanama Stop at the 500-year-old La Victoria silver mine. Keep an eye out for Andean condors. Days 8-9 Totora/Lucabamba See snowcapped mountains, cloud forest, fruit trees and coffee plantations. Day 10 Santa Teresa/Aguas Calientes Climb an Inca trail to Llactapata, then take a train to Aguas Calientes. Day 11 Machu Picchu/Ollantaytambo Explore Machu Picchu, an architectural and engineering marvel of the ancient world. Day 12 Sacred Valley/Cusco Visit terraces around Ollantaytambo before continuing on to the ruins in Pisac. Day 13 Cusco Bid farewell to Cusco.
Selected Sundays Enter GGXQ on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley
Paracas
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Aguas Calientes
PERU
Aguas Calientes/ Machu Picchu Santa Teresa Lucabamba Yanama Totora Maizal Choquequirao Chiquisca Cachora
GGXQ
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley Cusco
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (5 nts), camping with basic facilities (7 nts) 12 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners Train, private vehicle
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City, Country Cusco Market,- Peru Photographer
City, Country Sacred Valley,-Peru Photographer
Classic Peru
PE R U
9 DAYS, LIMA TO LIMA
Lima
Discover the breadth of Peru’s diverse heritage, from the gorgeous Spanish colonial architecture of Lima to the Aymara and Quechua cultures of Puno.
Aguas Calientes
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley Cusco
Machu Picchu
Lake Titicaca
Enjoy plenty of time in Cusco, the perfect place to launch into further outdoor adventures, or simply relax and take in mountain views. Day 1 Lima Hola! Welcome to Peru’s cosmopolitan capital. Day 2 Cusco Fly to Cusco and perhaps stroll around the Inca-built walls lining the cobblestone streets or witness local life by the central plaza. Day 3 Sacred Valley/ Aguas Calientes Travel through the lush Sacred Valley, where maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces carved high into the valley walls. Travel by train to Aguas Calientes. Day 4 Machu Picchu/ Cusco Visit the incredible site of Machu Picchu – Peru’s veritable jaw-dropper. Explore the iconic site with a local guide. Day 5 Cusco Enjoy free time to soak up more of the sights. Perhaps visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman for views over the city. Days 6-7 Puno/Lake Titicaca Spend a night in Puno before sailing the waters of Lake Titicaca. Visit the intriguing floating islands of Uros, which are fashioned from totora reeds. Tonight, you’ll be welcomed into the home of a local family for an overnight stay. Days 8-9 Lima Fly back to Lima for a final night.
Puno
GGSD
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts), homestay (1 nt) 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Plane, train, private vehicle, boat, public bus, taxi
Selected Fridays Enter GGSD on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Peru Real Food Adventure 10 DAYS, LIMA TO CUSCO
PE R U
Lima
Farmstay
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley
Aguas Calientes
Learn about coffee production in an authentic crop-to-cup plantation experience, then enjoy a mouth-watering dinner made with locally sourced produce.
Machu Picchu Cusco
Discover the secrets of ceviche, make your own Pisco sour and taste the magic of pachamanca cooking – an ancient Inca feast cooked beneath the earth. Days 1-2 Lima Start with a Peruvian street food crawl. Visit the Chorrillos fish market, enjoy a home-cooked meal, then perhaps finish up with a Pisco sour in the Barranco district. Days 3-4 Cusco Visit a Pisco distillery then fly to Cusco. Pick up some Andean culinary secrets from a local cook. Day 5 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Stop in at the salt mines of Maras and visit the Moray ruins. Take a craft beer tour in the Sacred Valley, then arrive in Ollantaytambo. Day 6 Farmstay Learn about coffee production at a unique farmstay. Dine with your hosts on a meal prepared with fresh, locally sourced produce. Day 7 Aguas Calientes Start the day sweetly at a cacao plantation, then take a train to Aguas Calientes. Day 8 Machu Picchu Set out for one of the highlights of travelling to Peru – a morning viewing of magnificent Machu Picchu. Days 9-10 Sacred Valley/Cusco Visit the Pisac market and sample empanadas served hot from a horno (clay oven). Finish your trip with an ancient Inca-style feast. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Fridays from March to November Enter GGZP on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices 24 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/peru
GGZP
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts), farmstay (1 nt) 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner Plane, train, private vehicle, local bus, taxi
Inca Trail, Peru
Amazon, Peru
Peruvian Pathways
PE R U
14 DAYS, LIMA TO LIMA In the early hours of the morning, soak up a sublime sunrise at Machu Picchu and take a guided tour of the ruins. Peru is a world-class culinary destination. Feast on the nation’s favourite dish of ceviche in gastronomic Lima. Day 1 Lima Take a guided walk of Lima and sample a Pisco sour. Days 2-3 Amazon Jungle Fly into Puerto Maldonado, Peru’s premier Amazon outpost town. Learn about the jungle’s intricate ecosystem and wildlife on a nature walk with a well-versed local guide. Day 4 Cusco Fly to Cusco, city rich in history, awash with charm and lovely to walk around. Day 5 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Journey through the lush, picturesque landscape of the Sacred Valley and choose to scale Ollantaytambo’s imposing cliff fortress. Days 6-9 Inca Trail/Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Piccho Check out the archaeological sites of Qenqo, Tambomachay and Sacsayhuaman on the Quarry Trail, hike the mighty Inca Trail, or rest your legs and take the train instead. Regardless of how you get there, explore Machu Picchu with a guided tour on arrival. Day 10 Cusco Enjoy a free day in Cusco for more sightseeing. Days 11-12 Puno/Lake Titicaca Take a cruise around Lake Titicaca. Days 13-14 Lima End this adventure back by the sea in Lima.
Lima
Ollantaytambo Inca Trail Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu Cusco
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGKIC
COMFORT
Hike
Non-Hike
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts) 13 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
Selected Sundays Enter GGKIC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Plane, private vehicle, canoe
Inca Encounter
PERU
10 DAYS, LIMA TO CUSCO
Lima
Descend into the vast catacombs beneath Lima on an underground tour. This is a side of Peru’s capital not many people have seen. Marvel at ancient Inca architecture throughout the fertile Sacred Valley, before discovering the mother of all Inca cities, Machu Picchu. Day 1 Lima Welcome to Peru! Head out on a guided walk through of Lima. Days 2-3 Amazon Jungle Fly to Puerto Maldonado. Learn about the jungle’s amazing biodiversity on a nature walk with an expert local guide. Day 4 Cusco Get to know Cusco with a stroll around the city centre. A melting pot of Spanish and Inca influences, the city is full of history. Day 5 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Travel to the fertile landscape of the Sacred Valley, keeping an eye out for villagers dressed in traditional colourful clothes. Be treated to lunch prepared by a local community and stay overnight in the ancient Inca town of Ollantaytambo. Days 6-9 Inca Trail/Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Picchu Choose to hike either the Inca or Quarry trail or take the train to Machu Picchu. Take a guided tour to learn more about this mysterious architectural marvel before returning to Cusco. Day 10 Cusco Say farewell to your group and this unforgettable Inca Encounter.
Selected Sundays Enter GGKY on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Sacred Valley
Lake Titicaca Puno
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Amazon Jungle
Ollantaytambo
Inca Trail Aguas Calientes Amazon Sacred Valley Jungle Machu Picchu Cusco
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGKY Hike
COMFORT Non-Hike
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (4 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts) 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners Plane, private vehicle, canoe
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To 3600 metres, and beyond This La Paz tour hits all the right marks. It’s captivating, scenic and just a little spooky. Journey through the world’s highest capital with a local to discover all the stories that make up this magical Bolivian city, from the inmates of San Pedro Prison to mysterious tales of the Witches’ Market. For more info head to urbanadventures.com
Peru Essentials
PE R U
Lima
21 DAYS, LIMA TO LA PAZ Combining history with happening and old-world charm with cosmopolitan sprawl, Lima is one of South America’s most dashing cities. Wake early and observe Andean condors taking to the sky as the sun rises in the spectacular Colca Canyon. Days 1-2 Lima Take in the city’s sights on a guided walking tour. Perhaps seek out the best ceviche. Day 3 Paracas Home to penguins, pelicans, sea lions and more, the Ballestas Islands are recommended for any fans of fin and feather. Day 4 Nazca Choose to see mysterious etchings from the sky on a light plane flight. Days 5-8 Arequipa/ Colca Canyon Admire the graceful architecture of Arequipa and visit the Colca Canyon. Days 9-10 Cusco Take a guided walk through Cusco’s winding laneways. Day 11 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Visit a local community in the Sacred Valley before spending the night in Ollantaytambo. Days 12-15 Inca Trail/Machu Picchu Prepare for four days of magnificent hiking along the famed Inca Trail. Day 16 Cusco Return to Cusco. Days 17-19 Puno/Lake Titicaca Take a boat tour on Lake Titicaca to visit the floating reed island homes of the Uros people. Tonight, enjoy a homestay with a local family. Days 20-21 La Paz Discover La Paz’s artisan stalls, markets and delicious eateries. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GGBL on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Inca Trail
Paracas
Ollantaytambo/Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu
Nazca
B OLIV IA
Cusco
Lake Titicaca La Paz Puno Arequipa Colca Canyon
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGBL
BASIX
Hike
Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (15 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight bus (1 nt) 20 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners Train, private vehicle, public bus
Cycle Peru (Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley) PERU
8 DAYS, LIMA TO CUSCO
Lima
Peru's mountains are a dream to explore on wheels. This itinerary combines easy routes with more strenuous paths, allowing a nice mix of sightseeing and adventure.
Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley Cusco
Discover the breadth of Peru's diverse heritage, from the gorgeous Spanish colonial architecture of Lima to the mother of all Inca cities, Machu Picchu. Day 1 Lima Hola! Welcome to Peru's cosmopolitan capital. Day 2 Cusco Enjoy a half-day adventure exploring Lima on wheels – including visits to fishermen's hangouts, artists' stomping grounds and hilltop lookouts – before flying to Cusco. Day 3 Cusco Ride past the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay on a half-day mountain bike adventure. Days 4-6 Sacred Valley Set off on a three-day mountain bike expedition in the Sacred Valley. Follow the Urubamba River to Pisac, a village built at the base of an Inca fort on a mountain spur. See Chinchero Plateau and Huaypo Lagoon. Day 7 Machu Picchu/Cusco Leave the bike behind and take the bus up the winding road to magical Machu Picchu. Spend time pondering the mystery of this incredible archaeological site on a guided tour and don't miss the chance to take some incredible photos. Return to Cusco for a well-deserved shower and perhaps a Pisco sour. Day 8 Cusco This cycling adventure finishes this morning. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays from May to October Enter GGXC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices 26 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/south-america
GGXC
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (7 nts) 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch Plane, train, public bus, bicycle
Gocta Falls, Peru
Inca Trail, Peru
Ultimate Peru
Cocachimba
Kuelap Revash Leymebamba
15 DAYS, LIMA TO LIMA Gocta Falls once sat hidden in the Andes, known only to the locals. These secret waters create one of the tallest falls in the world, setting an ethereal scene of mist and water.
PE R U Lima
Aguas Calientes Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley Cusco Lake Titicaca
Machu Picchu
Use Cusco as a base to explore Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The colonial streets and extraordinary location make this one of the continent's most appealing cities. Day 1 Lima Meet your group and take a walk through the Miraflores and Barranco districts. Day 2 Cocachimba Fly to Jaen and transfer to Cocachimba, your base for exploring the Gocta Falls. Day 3 Gocta Waterfalls Hike through the Andes hunting for Gocta Falls (don't forget your camera). Day 4 Kuelap Explore Kuelap on a full-day excursion. Day 5 Leymebamba/Revash Visit the Leymebamba Museum, and the Revash Mausoleums carved into the cliffs of Cerro Carbon. Days 6-7 Lima Fly back to Lima and take a guided tour the next day. Day 8 Cusco Morning flight to Cusco. Stroll around and get used to the altitude. Day 9 Aguas Calientes Travel through the Sacred Valley and visit a local community. Day 10 Machu Picchu Spend the day at Peru's veritable jaw-dropper, Machu Picchu. Day 11 Cusco Soak up more of Cusco's sights. Days 12-13 Puno/Lake Titicaca Bus to Puno and take a boat tour of the lake's floating islands, where you'll have a homestay on the second night. Days 14-15 Lima Return to Lima.
Puno
GGSXC
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (13 nts), homestay (1 nt) 14 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Plane, train, private vehicle, boat, public bus, taxi
Selected Saturdays Enter GGSXC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Peru: Bike, Climb & Hike 10 DAYS, LIMA TO CUSCO
Lima
Take the chance to mountain bike past farms and over rolling hills that are normally reserved for llamas and local farmers. Whether you trek the Inca Trail or the equally stunning Quarry Trail, camping under the Andean stars is an experience you’ll treasure forever. Day 1 Lima Welcome to Lima, the coastal capital of Peru. Day 2 Cusco Catch a morning flight to Cusco and spend some time acclimatising to the altitude – sipping some of the local coca tea may help. Day 3 Sacred Valley/ Ollantaytambo Step out of your comfort zone and into the vertical world of ’via ferrata’ climbing. Cap off the day with a zip-lining adventure. Day 4 Ollantaytambo Leave the paved roads behind to venture through the lesserseen landscapes of the Sacred Valley by bike. Days 5-8 Inca Trail/Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Picchu Choose to hike the Inca or Quarry Trails to Machu Picchu, or kick back and catch the train instead. Arrive at the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu – Peru’s jaw-dropping gem. Explore the iconic ruins with a local guide and take advantage of the awesome photo opportunities. Day 9 Cusco Rest up with a massage or explore the museums or ruins in and around the city of Cusco. Day 10 Cusco Your adventure through Peru comes to an end. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Thursdays Enter GGXA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley
Inca Trail Machu Picchu
Cusco
PE R U
Lake Titicaca
Inca Trail & non-hiking options available
GGXA Hike
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (6 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts) 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners Plane, train, private vehicle, boat, public bus, taxi, bicycle
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Quito Legends and Culture tour Explore Quito’s historic centre and hear the tales behind the city’s oldest streets before trying the sweets at a local chocolate factory and a traditional ice cream shop on this day tour.
For more info head to urbanadventures.com Cotopaxi National Park, Ecuador
Ecuador: Raft, Hike & Bike 10 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO Hike from the emerald-coloured crater lake of Quilotoa to the tiny Andean village of Chugchilan, taking in glorious views along the way.
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Tuesdays Enter GGXE on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Ecuador to Peru Adventure
Banos
GGXE
Hotel (7 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts) 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners Local bus, private vehicle, canoe, taxi, mountain bike
EC U A D OR Quito Banos Cuenca Tumbes
Full of Baroque architecture, plazas, churches and colourful local life, there’s a reason Quito’s Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cuenca boasts colonial streets and buildings to explore while nearby El Cajas National Park has stunning landscapes to hike – it’s the perfect mix of city and nature.
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16
9 DAYS, QUITO TO LIMA
Day 1 Quito Welcome to Ecuador’s capital city. Days 2-3 Amazon Lodge Travel into the Amazon. Take a night walk, explore hidden waterfalls and visit both an animal welfare centre and a traditional Quechua community. Day 4 Banos Travel to Banos, a town close to many natural wonders. Perhaps visit the hot springs of La Piscinas de la Virgen or explore the city’s nightlife. Day 5 Banos Enjoy a free day of exploration. Try waking up early to catch a sunrise over the mountains, or take a hike to the Devil’s Cauldron waterfall. Day 6 Cuenca Get lost wandering through Cuenca’s charming streets. Day 7 Cuenca Travel through Cuenca with a guide. Explore the parks and markets before stopping at La Catedral Metropolitana de la Immaculada Concepcion. Day 8 Lima Take a guided walk past local markets, shops, restaurants and bars before enjoying an evening at your own leisure – you could organise a farewell meal with your group. Day 9 Lima This adventure comes to an end in the morning.
Amazon Lodge
E C U A D OR
Dial up the thrills mountain biking down the world’s highest active volcano in Cotopaxi National Park and whitewater rafting on the Amazon River. Day 1 Quito Arrive in Ecuador’s colourful capital. Days 2-3 Amazon Lodge Travel into the Amazon for a memorable stay at a jungle lodge. Perhaps meet the jungle’s nocturnal inhabitants on a night walk. A daytime boat trip and hike offer another view of the lush surrounds. Day 4 Banos Go whitewater rafting on a main tributary of the Amazon River. Day 5 Banos Visit Pondoa, a small village in the shadow of the Tungurahua Volcano, for a lesson on Ecuadorian farm life. Day 6 Banos Enjoy a free day in Banos, a city brimming with a variety of adventurous options. Day 7 Quilotoa Depart for Quilotoa, a volcanic crater lake that sits around 3900 metres above sea level. Stop on the way at the village of Zumbahua, perched in the foothills of the Andes. Day 8 Quilotoa/Cotopaxi Enjoy a breathtaking 14-kilometre hike to the tiny Andean village of Chugchilan. Day 9 Cotopaxi/Quito Visit Cotopaxi National Park for the ultimate thrill ride: mountain biking down the world’s highest active volcano. Day 10 Quito Finish up in Quito.
Quito
Cotopaxi National Park Quilotoa
Amazon Lodge
Lima
GGBE
PE R U
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (6 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts) 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Plane, private vehicle, local bus, taxi
Podocarpus National Park, Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador
Highlights of Ecuador & Peru 28 DAYS, QUITO TO LA PAZ Set into the foothills of the Pichincha Volcano, Quito is one of the most attractive cities in South America and a great place to kick off your adventure. Head into the Amazon rainforest and explore hidden waterfalls, visit an animal welfare centre and learn from a traditional Quechua community. Day 1 Quito Touch down in Quito. Days 2-3 Amazon Lodge Experience the wildlife-filled jungle. Days 4-5 Banos The perfect balance of nightlife and nature. Days 6-7 Cuenca Pull out your Panama hat to explore its traditional home. Days 8-9 Lima Take a walking tour of downtown Lima before free time to explore. Day 10 Paracas Bus to Paracas, gateway to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve. Day 11 Nazca Perhaps visit the Ballestas Islands before heading to Nazca. Days 12-16 Arequipa Soak up Arequipa and trek through the Colca Canyon. Day 17 Cusco Take a stroll around Cusco. Days 18-22 Inca Trail/Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Picchu Test your limits while trekking the Inca or Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu, or travel by train to experience the ruins and their surrounds. Day 23 Cusco Explore Cusco’s charming streets or maybe visit the Sacred Valley. Days 24-26 Puno/Lake Titicaca Tour Lake Titicaca and visit the floating islands. Enjoy a homestay. Days 27-28 La Paz Visit La Paz’s markets. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
EC U A D OR Galapagos
Quito
Tumbes
Amazon Lodge Banos Cuenca
PERU
B OLIV IA
Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Lima Inca Trail Sacred Valley Cusco Lake Titicaca Paracas Nazca La Paz Inca Trail & non-hiking Arequipa Puno options available Colca Canyon
GGBQC
BASIX
Hike
Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (20 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight bus (1 nt) 27 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners
Selected Saturdays Enter GGBQC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Plane, train, private vehicle, boat, canoe, local bus
Southern Ecuador Highlights
Otalvo
9 DAYS, GUAYAQUIL TO QUITO
Quito
See the ingenious design of medieval fortress town Cuenca, where the city is made up of buildings built into the jagged cliffs. Walk through the dense and mist-laden forest of Podocarpus National Park, where the high elevation results in miniature, moss-covered trees. Day 1 Guayaquil Welcome to Guayaquil, the coastal gateway to your Ecuador adventure. Days 2-3 Cuenca Ornate buildings are built into craggy cliff faces in Cuenca: a study in how architecture can complement environment. Why not munch a skewer of cuy while you explore? You might know the rich, roasted meat by its Western name: guinea pig! Days 4-6 Vilcabamba Enjoy a hearty local lunch in the farming village of Namarin en route. Once in Vilcabamba, explore this verdant valley town, wandering roads shared by tame livestock such as donkeys. Travel to Podocarpus National Park where you can breathe in the heady scent of orchids and spot endemic plant species. Days 7-8 Otavalo/Quito Explore the famous Otavalo craft markets and shop for beautifully patterned textiles in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. Hike Peguche Waterfalls, a spot so enchanting it’s no surprise local shamans observe summer solstice here. Day 9 Quito Your journey ends here. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays Enter GGSH on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
E C U A D OR
Guayaquil Cuenco Vilcabamba
GGSH
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts) 7 breakfasts,1 lunch Plane, local bus, private vehicle
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The GalaPagos Islands The Galapagos Islands have become a must-see destination for travellers all over the world thanks to their incredible biodiversity, natural beauty and place in history. This truly is a unique part of the world, as you’ll soon discover.
WEATHER Quito Isla San Cristobal Isla Santa Cruz
Hot & dry 25-35ºC Hot & wet 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Warm & wet 20-25ºC Cool 15-20ºC Cold & wet 0-15ºC
THE GALAPAGOS GOSPEL
The Galapagos is a destination unto itself, where unique landscapes are home to crazy creatures and its surrounds host some of the most idyllic seascapes known anywhere. Below is some info about what to expect on your trip to the Galapagos – it’s anything but a typical South American adventure.
CHOOSE LAND OR BOAT-BASED TRIPS
LUGGAGE
Some of our Galapagos adventures are cruising trips with our motorised yachts as your accommodation (pages 34–40), while others are land-based with nights spent in hotels, homestays and various other accommodation (pages 41–43). This variety allows you to better choose a trip that suits any time or budget restrictions you may have, as well as the islands you’d like to visit.
As some airline baggage restrictions exist on the flights between Quito and the islands, we advise leaving any luggage you can’t see yourself needing in the storage facilities of the starting-point hotel in Quito. All of our trips start and finish at the same hotel, so picking up any extra luggage won’t be a problem – and it also eliminates any surprise excess baggage fees!
In order to best preserve this important and fragile ecosystem, the Galapagos National Park authorities restrict the number of visitors to each site by issuing permits to every visiting vessel. This permit (or patente) determines which sites can be visited each day and when. Far from restricting a visitor’s experience, this system actually enhances it because the itineraries are designed in such a way as to eliminate the amount of vessel crossover. This results in witnessing more of the wildlife you’ve come to see without vying with boatloads of other tourists.
NATIONAL PARK FEES & TAXES
If you don’t find the trip you’re looking for in these pages, visit our website at intrepidtravel.com/galapagos for more options.
A TYPICAL DAY ON THE BOAT We do most of our long-distance cruising at night in order to maximise your time on the islands. And because the best time to observe much of the wildlife is first thing in the morning, early starts are pretty common. Each day consists of planned morning and afternoon activities, which tend to last between two and four hours. These can be anything from hiking to snorkelling to visiting research stations, and include either wet or dry landings. While you don’t need to be able to swim to enjoy the Galapagos Islands, some of the more unique experiences are had with a snorkel. Finally, although days are pretty packed with activities, there is ample free time to simply enjoy the environment.
MEALS ONBOARD
A transit card fee of USD 20 is payable at check-in at Quito Airport prior to flying to the islands. The Galapagos National Park charges each passenger USD 100 upon arrival at the airport in Galapagos. If your itinerary visits Puerto Villamil, Isla Isabela, and you wish to disembark, there is a USD 5 port fee on arrival. All fees are payable in cash and must be in US dollars.
MOBILE RECEPTION AND INTERNET There is very limited or no mobile reception in the Galapagos and no wi-fi onboard our boats. Some itineraries do pass through towns where internet is available, but we suggest you anticipate (and enjoy!) limited contact with the outside world.
IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT YOUR TRIP }} If you are travelling on the Daphne, arrival transfers can be organised at an additional cost. }} All of our Galapagos trips include a night in Quito pre- and post-voyage. }} Your trip price includes the Quito to Galapagos return flights. }} Prices for these trips vary depending on cabin type. Please select your preferred cabin type for the exact trip price.
All onboard meals are included in the cost of the trip. The food is delicious, nutritious and plentiful, and complimentary coffee, tea and purified water are provided around the clock. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase from the bar, and the cost is put on a tab that you will then be presented with at the end of the trip. Any special dietary requirements should be mentioned at the time of booking. Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/galapagos 31
A guide to
the Galapagos Isla Santiago Pay a visit to the Santiago fur seal grotto – you may be lucky enough to catch a sneak peek of these furry locals.
Isla Bartolome The walk to Pinnacle Rock rewards you with views of stunning lava formations and, if you’re lucky, a few lava lizards.
ISLA BARTOLOME Humpback, killer, sperm and pilot whale sightings are all in a day's work here.
ISLA SANTIAGO Isla Fernandina The only penguins to live north of the equator, Galapagos penguins can be spotted feeding just off shore and are some of the speediest swimmers on the island.
ISLA FERNANDINA
ISLA ISABELA
Isla Isabela There may be as many as 300,000 marine iguanas calling the archipelago home, so the world’s only seafaring lizard is impossible to miss.
With five out of its six volcanoes still active, Isabela is one of the most volcanic places on earth!
Isla Floreana Leave a letter (sans postage) at Post Office Bay’s 19th-century whaling post barrel, and a friendly traveller heading home just might hand-deliver it for you.
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ISLA GENOVESA
Isla Baltra Touch down in Baltra to begin your seafaring Galapagos journey.
Isla Genovesa Home to all three kinds of boobies, including the rare red-footed booby, this island is a twitcher’s paradise.
Kicker Rock
ISLA BALTRA
Head out to Kicker Rock (the site of an ancient volcanic eruption) and dare to swim with the local hammerhead sharks.
Baltra Airport Isla Santa Cruz
ISLA SANTA CRUZ
ISLA SANTA FE
Keep an eye out for the bottle-nosed dolphin; they can often be seen racing alongside boats.
If you’re lucky, you’ll spot your first giant tortoise in the highlands of Santa Cruz.
Isla Sante Fe
Kicker Rock
ISLA SAN CRISTOBAL
Stand beside the flowers of huge opuntia cacti.
Head up high for sweeping views of frigatebird breeding areas, or stay low to swim with San Cristobal’s diverse marine animals.
Isla Espanola
Post Office Bay ISLA FLOREANA
Isla San Cristobal
ISLA ESPANOLA
Home to the Espanola mockingbird and waved albatross, this remote island is a bird-watching haven..
Snorkel warm waters with sea turtles and play tag with the islands’ zippiest swimmers.
Grand Queen Beatriz Grand Queen Beatriz is our newest expedition boat. With outward-facing windows in all rooms and a jacuzzi on the sun deck, you can soak up these islands in more ways than one.
Deck plan
Intrepid Grand Queen Beatriz STEPS
MAIN DECK
WC
WC
CABIN
STEPS
CABIN
STEPS
DINING BAR STEPS
CABIN WC
WC
LADDER
BALCONY
BALCONY
CABIN
STEPS
SUN DECK
CABIN
TV LOUNGE AREA
SUN DECK
WC STEPS WC
STEPS
STEPS
SUNDECK
WC
CABIN
BALCONY
WC
BALCONY
CABIN
COCKPIT SPA
BAR
WC
STEPS
CABIN
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DINGHY
CABIN WC
STEPS
UPPER DECK
DINGHY
CABIN
STEPS
SUN DECK
Isla Bartolome, Galapagos
Grand Galapagos
GA LA PA GOS IS LA N D S Isla Santiago
17 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO
Isla Rabida
Explore the islands on deck, on foot and in the water, keeping your eyes wide open for the next unique sight. Witness lumbering giant tortoises in the highlands of Isla Santa Cruz, and learn about conservation efforts for these magnificent, ancient creatures. This will likely be the only chance you’ll get to swim with sea lions in the wild, and these playful animals are often just as curious as you are! Day 1 Quito Start in Ecuador’s exciting capital. Day 2 Isla Baltra Fly to the Galapagos Islands and board Grand Queen Beatriz. Cruise to Punta Carrion and make your maiden snorkel around a protected cove. Day 3 Isla Isabela Spot white-tipped reef sharks at Las Tintoreras and visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. Day 4 Isla Floreana Post a jealousy-inducing card from historic Post Office Bay, swim in Devil’s Crown, a volcanic cone, and look for lounging sea lions at Punta Cormorant. Day 5 Isla Santa Cruz Venture into the misty forests of the Santa Cruz highlands, likely encountering giant tortoises in the wild. Day 6 Isla Plaza Sur Swim with sea lions in the jade-green waters of Isla Santa Fe and Isla Plaza Sur. Day 7 Isla Espanola Visit feathered friends at Bahia Gardner and Punta Suarez. Day 8 Isla San Cristobal Visit magnificent Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock), plus Isla Lobos and Punta
E C U A D OR
Isla Bartolome
Pitt. Day 9 Isla San Cristobal Read up on local history at San Cristobal Interpretation Center and visit the island’s interior. Day 10 Isla Bartolome Witness iconic Pinnacle Rock and stroll along the amazing volcanic landscapes of Sullivan Bay. Day 11 Isla Santiago Look for nesting turtles on Espumilla Beach and see the black sands of Puerto Egas. Day 12 Isla Santa Cruz Walk through a cactus garden to Las Grietas, a stunning inland swimming spot. Day 13 Isla Mosquera Spot frigatebirds on North Seymour and scampering Sally Lightfoot crabs on Isla Mosquera. Day 14 Isla Santa Cruz Discover Black Turtle Cove, then watch iguanas at Cerro Dragon. Day 15 Isla Rabida Sail to the hat-shaped islet, Sombrero Chino, then discover the splendid nature that has developed in isolated Isla Rabida. Days 16-17 Quito Enjoy one last island morning, then to Quito for a final evening together.
Quito
Isla Baltra
Isla Santa Cruz
Isla Plaza Sur Isla San Cristobal
Isla Isabela Isla Floreana
GMQG
Isla Santa Fe
Isla Espanola
COMFORT
Maximum group size 16 Comfortable hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (14 nts) 16 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 14 dinners Grand Queen Beatriz (motorised yacht), minibus, plane, small boat DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GMQG on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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Galapagos Encounter
GMQI
6 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO Day 1 Quito Explore Quito’s Old Town or perhaps people-watch at a local bar. Day 2 Isla San Cristobal Fly to San Cristobal and travel to the highlands of Red Hill. Be shell-shocked by giant tortoises as they mooch around their natural habitat and you learn more about these thick-shelled giants of the Galapagos. Day 3 Isla Bartolome Explore the otherworldly, volcanic landscapes of Bartolome. Witness the muchphotographed Pinnacle Rock and hike to the top of a once-active volcano to enjoy superb views across to Sullivan Bay. Day 4 Isla Santiago Visit idyllic Espumilla Beach, which is covered in remarkable lava formations, and the infamous pirate hangout of Caleta Bucanero. Wander along the black-sand beach of Puerto Egas that is often covered in marine iguanas, California sea lions and Galapagos fur sea lions. Day 5 Isla Santa Cruz Learn
about the plight of the giant tortoise at the Charles Darwin Research Station before flying back to Quito, where an overnight stay offers one last chance to explore the city. Day 6 Quito This trip ends in Quito this morning.
Quito
Isla Bartolome Isla Santiago Isla Santa Cruz
Grand Queen Beatriz (motorised yacht), minibus, plane, Zodiac DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GMQI on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Isla San Cristobal
GMQE
7 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO wildlife of the archipelago. In the afternoon, return to the mainland to spend the evening in Quito. Day 7 Quito Bid farewell to this Galapagos adventure.
Quito Isla Baltra Isla Plaza Sur
Selected Tuesdays Enter GMQE on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Isla Espanola
GMQJ
Quito
from Quito
Isla Bartolome Isla Baltra Isla Santa Cruz Puerto Ayora
Las Tintoreras Isla Floreana
Grand Queen Beatriz (motorised yacht), minibus, plane, Zodiac
Isla San Cristobal
walking on a (very warm) moon. Day 11 Isla Santiago Check out Buccaneer Cove and the black sand of Puerto Egas. Days 12-13 Quito Take one last trip to the highlands then return to pretty Quito.
Isla Isabela
Comfortable hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (4 nts)
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
13 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO
Isla Santiago
Maximum group size 16
Punta Pit
Isla Santa Cruz Isla Santa Fe
COMFORT
6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
E C U A D OR
GAL APAGOS IS LA N D S
Treasures of the Galapagos Day 1 Quito Welcome to the valley city that lies beneath Pichincha Volcano. Day 2 Isla Santa Cruz Board the ship, then sail to the protected cove of Punta Carrion for your first snorkel. Day 3 Isla Isabela Visit the Arnoldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center. Day 4 Isla Floreana See the historic mail barrel at Post Office Bay, then snorkel-up and explore the centre of Devil’s Crown (a volcanic cone). Day 5 Isla Santa Cruz Leave behind the coast and travel to the lush highlands, where you can look out for giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Day 6 Isla Santa Fe The trees of the opuntia forest are like something out of a cartoon. Day 7 Isla Espanola Wake on the shore of this birdlover’s paradise. Days 8-9 Isla San Cristobal Swim around Kicker Rock and visit the tortoise breeding program of Red Hill. Day 10 Isla Bartolome It’s like
Comfortable hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (3 nts)
Isla Baltra
Galapagos Explorer Day 1 Quito Arrive in Quito, where the charm and history of old-world Ecuadorian architecture blends seamlessly with stylish cafes, bars and shops. Day 2 Isla Baltra/Charles Darwin Research Station Learn about Galapagos wildlife at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Day 3 Isla Santa Fe/Isla Plaza Sur Watch marine iguanas sunning themselves on the sand at Isla Santa Fe. The island’s rugged cliffs are an excellent place to spot tropicbirds. Day 4 Isla Espanola Stroll along Espanola’s winding paths and witness almost the entire world’s population of waved albatross. Day 5 Isla San Cristobal/ Punta Pitt/Kicker Rock Cruise past the lion-shaped rock formation of Leon Dormido, which juts out of the waters off San Cristobal Island. Day 6 Isla San Cristobal/ Interpretation Center Visit the Galapagos Interpretation Center and learn about the history, geography and
Maximum group size 16
5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
E C U A D OR
GAL APAGOS IS LA N D S
COMFORT
Isla Plaza Sur
Santa Fe
to Quito
GA LA PA GOS ISLA N D S
Isla San Cristobal Punta Pitt Kicker Rock Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Comfortable hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (10 nts) 12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 10 dinners Grand Queen Beatriz (motorised yacht), minibus, plane, Zodiac
Isla Lobos
Post Office Bay
Isla Espanola
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Punta Suarez
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GMQJ on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Classic Galapagos 10 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO
Isla Santiago
Experience the incredible biodiversity and historic importance of these islands on both land and water. You’ll encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed and masked boobies, pelicans and frigatebirds, as well as land and marine iguanas, sea lions, fur seals and more. Because of the extreme isolation of the islands much of the wildlife has no instinctive fear of man, allowing you to observe nature in its full glory. Day 1 Quito Arrive in Ecuador’s charming, high-altitude capital. Day 2 Isla Santa Cruz Fly to the Galapagos Islands and hop aboard your home for the next week – the luxurious Grand Queen Beatriz. Go snorkelling in the beautiful coves of Punta Carrion then enjoy a welcome cocktail on board in the evening. Day 3 Isla Isabela Check out Las Tintoreras (aka Shark Alley), where white-tipped sharks sleep and swim. Witness lava flow and see the Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center, where these gentle giants live, play and love. Day 4 Isla Floreana Admire the olive-green sands of Punta Cormorant, a peridot beach, and look for flamingos and pelicans on this birdwatcher’s haven. Make someone jealous with a postcard from historic Post Office Bay, the unofficial letter drop for 18th-century whalers. Day 5 Isla Santa Cruz Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station before heading to the humid highlands to see giant
E C U A D OR
GALA PA GOS IS LA N D S
tortoises in their natural habitat, lumbering among inactive volcanic cones. Day 6 Isla Santa Fe Don your snorkel and explore the wildlife-rich coves and waters of Isla Santa Fe. Sea lions particularly love swimming buddies. Cruise to Plaza Sur, a tiny island where iguanas scuttle between cacti and brightly coloured succulents. Day 7 Isla Espanola This island is home to the waved albatross, and if the season’s right you may get to hear the honking mating call of these creatures. Later, relax on the deserted white sands of Bahia Gardner. Day 8 Isla San Cristobal Take a walk up volcanic Punta Pitt, a nesting ground for adorable blue-footed boobies and striking frigatebirds, then take a panga ride past Leon Dormido, the remains of a crater at sea. Days 9-10 Quito Visit the Interpretation Center, where geography comes to life, on your last morning then return to Quito for a final evening and farewell.
Quito
Isla Baltra
Isla Santa Cruz
Isla Plaza Sur
Isla San Cristobal
Isla Isabela Isla Floreana
GMQA
Isla Santa Fe
Isla Espanola
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Comfortable hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (7 nts) 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners Grand Queen Beatriz (motorised yacht), minibus, plane, Zodiac DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GMQA on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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Daphne Relax on Daphne’s spacious sun deck or head below to take advantage of this comfortable boat’s bar, dining room, library and cabins with private bathrooms and air conditioning.
Dining room, Daphne
Sun deck, Daphne
Intrepid Sailing Daphne
Upper deck double cabin, Daphne
Deck plan WC
WC
CABIN
CABIN
STEPS
LOUNGE
BRIDGE
CABIN
CABIN CABIN SUN DECK
WC
WC
WC WC
WC
CABIN
ENGINE
CABIN CABIN
WC
DINING ROOM
STEPS
SUN DECK
CREW AREA
UPPER DECK
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MAIN DECK
LOWER DECK
Ultimate Galapagos
Buccaneers Cove
10 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO Snorkel the clear waters off Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Bartolome or Isla Isabela and come face-to-face with sea lions, white-tipped reef sharks, sea turtles and tiny penguins. Venture to the Galapagos’ seldom visited reaches, such as the remote west coast of Isla Isabela and Isla Fernandina, home of the highest density of marine iguanas. Day 1 Quito Begin this adventure in the Ecuadorian capital. Day 2 Isla Baltra Catch an early flight before cruising to Las Bachas, an area popular for snorkelling. Day 3 North Seymour/Isla Bartolome Take a walk around the lunar-like landscape of Isla Bartolome. Day 4 Isla Santiago Encounter marine iguanas and Galapagos fur seals while walking and swimming around the island, then learn about the pirate history of Buccaneer Cove. Day 5 Isla Isabela/Isla Fernandina Watch flightless cormorants dawdling about volcanic Punta Espinosa. Days 6-7 Isla Isabela Board pangas for a trip through the mangroves, which are home to penguins, sea turtles and more. Peer down at whitetipped reef sharks from a viewing platform. Day 8 Isla Santa Cruz Make a dry landing and venture into birdlife-rich lagoons, encountering yellow warblers, frigatebirds, boobies and pelicans. Day 9 Isla Baltra/Quito Encounter giant tortoises on a visit to the highlands of Santa Cruz. Day 10 Quito This adventure comes to an end in the morning.
Elizabeth Bay
Isla Santa Cruz Las Bachas Puerto Ayora
Isla Isabela Cerro Dragon
GMDD
G A LA PA GOS IS LA N D S
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (7 nts)
Daphne (motorised yacht), plane, Zodiac, minibus,
Selected Tuesdays Enter GMDD on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Absolute Galapagos
Isla Genovesa Buccaneers Isla Cove Santiago Isla Bartolome
17 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO Quito is so much more than a gateway to the Galapagos. Think misty mountain scenery, a heart-melting Old Town and world-class cuisine. Snorkelling in the Devil’s Crown is like nothing else. This underwater volcano is full of sea lions, turtles and rays. Day 1 Quito Welcome! Day 2 Isla Santa Cruz Explore sinkholes and cloud forests with giant tortoises chilling nearby. Day 3 Isla Floreana Watch flamingos frolic in lagoons. Day 4 Isla Espanola Albatross run this island, you’re their guest. Day 5 Isla San Cristobal Swim around behemoth Kicker Rock then visit the Interpretation Center to learn about this diverse paradise. Day 6 Isla Santa Fe Swim with cheeky sea lions. Day 7 Isla Genovesa Spot masked, red- and blue-footed boobies. Day 8 Isla Rabida Walk over lava in Bahia Sullivan and red sand in Isla Rabida. Day 9 Isla Santa Cruz Spot green turtles among mangroves at Black Turtle Cove. Day 10 Isla Bartolome Explore this volcanic, lunar-like landscape. Day 11 Isla Santiago Snorkel in seal territory. Days 12-14 Isla Isabela See pirate graffiti from 1836 and look out for penguins. Join the wildlife party at Las Tintoreras (shark alley). Day 15 Isla Santa Cruz Enter the Dragon (Hill). Days 16-17 Quito Return to scenic Quito.
Selected Tuesdays Enter GMDE on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Isla Bartolome
Isla Fernandina
9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Isla E C U A D OR Santiago North Seymour Quito Isla Baltra
E C U A D OR Quito
North Seymour Isla Rabida Isla Baltra Las Bachas Cerro Isla Plaza Sur Dragon Isla Santa Fe Isla Isabela Isla Isla San Santa Puerto Cruz Ayora Cristobal
Isla Fernandina
GALA PA GOS ISLA N D S
Isla Floreana
GMDE
ORIGINAL
Isla Espanola
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (14 nts) 16 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 14 dinners Daphne (motorised yacht), plane, Zodiac, minibus
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Galapagos at a Glance
GMDB
6 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO Day 1 Quito The adventure gets under way in Quito, Ecuador’s sprawling but refined capital city. Perhaps stroll through the atmospheric Old Town or journey up to Ruco Pichincha by cable car. Day 2 Isla Baltra/Isla Santa Cruz Board an early flight for the islands. Cruise out to Isla Santa Cruz and travel into its highlands. Day 3 Isla Floreana Walk along the olive-green sands of Punta Cormorant and see Galapagos sea lions waddling on the shore. Go snorkelling among rays, sharks and sea turtles in Devil’s Crown. Day 4 Isla Espanola Journey to Isla Espanola, the archipelago’s southernmost island and a hotspot for birdlife. Jump in the water at Gardner Beach and discover an underwater world teeming with tropical fish and white-tipped reef sharks. Day 5 Isla San Cristobal Watch brown pelicans swoop and Sally Lightfoot crabs scuttle along the shores of Isla San
Cristobal’s northern coast. Then fly back to the mainland. Day 6 Quito This short but sweet Galapagos adventure comes to an end this morning. If time permits, why not stay on to check out a few more of Quito’s charms.
E C U A D OR E C U A D OR Quito Isla Baltra Highlands
Hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (3 nts) 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Daphne (motorised yacht), plane, Zodiac, minibus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Isla San Cristobal Isla Floreana
GA LA PA GOS ISLA N D S
Selected Tuesdays Enter GMDB on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Isla Espanola
GMDC
7 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO panga to the red mangrove wetlands of Caleta Tortuga Negra – a breeding area for green turtles and popular hangout for eagle rays and Galapagos sharks. Day 7 Quito Your adventure comes to an end this morning.
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (4 nts) 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
GAL APAGOS IS LA N D S
EC U A D OR
Isla Genovesa
Quito Quito
Daphne (motorised yacht), plane, Zodiac, minibus, panga
Isla Santiago DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Isla Rabida
Isla Santa Cruz Isla Santa Fe
Isla San Cristobal
Selected Fridays Enter GMDC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Complete Galapagos
GMDA
10 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO Day 1 Quito Welcome to Quito, a city overflowing with history and scenery! Day 2 Isla Santa Cruz Watch out for the abundant birdlife in the Scalesia Cloud Forest and see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Day 3 Isla Floreana Snorkel around Devil’s Crown and look out for sea lions, rays and sharks. Visit quirky and historic Post Office Bay. Day 4 Isla Espanola Watch waved albatross take off from their cliff-top runway. Day 5 Isla San Cristobal Cruise through Kicker Rock channel and take a dip with diverse marine life. Day 6 Isla Santa Fe Playful sea lion pups make great company while swimming in jade-green water. Later, stroll through Plaza Sur, where iguanas dart around cacti and sunset-coloured succulents. Day 7 Isla Genovesa Look out for dolphins off the coast of this island. Then, hit Bahia Darwin for a hike to seabird rookeries. Day 8 Isla Rabida Walk along
Maximum group size 16
Isla Santa Cruz
Galapagos Adventure Day 1 Quito Arrive in this city flanked by the dramatic Andes ranges. Day 2 Isla San Cristobal Visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Center after an early morning flight. Day 3 Isla Santa Fe/Plaza Sur Cruise to the island of Santa Fe and jump in for a swim with the local – and very inquisitive – sea lions. See land iguanas scampering across the cacti-strewn volcanic landscape of Plaza Sur and blue-footed boobies swooping down from the island’s southern cliffs. Day 4 Isla Genovesa Don a snorkel and head underwater in search of diamond stingrays, turtles and moray eels off Darwin Beach. Keep an eye out for pods of dolphins on the sail to Genovesa. Day 5 Isla Santiago/Isla Rabida Walk across the volcanic landscape of Bahia Sullivan on the lookout for Sally Lightfoot crabs and penguins. Visit Island Rabida to spot pink flamingos. Day 6 Isla Santa Cruz Set out by
ORIGINAL
pahoehoe lava and keep your eyes peeled for colourful crabs and iguanas. Days 9-10 Quito Spot green turtles among the mangroves in Black Turtle Cove and soak up the islands before flying back to lofty Quito.
GAL APAGOS ISL ANDS
Isla Genovesa
E C U A D OR Quito
Isla Santiago
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (2 nts), motorised yacht (7 nts) 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
Daphne (motorised yacht), plane, Zodiac, minibus
Isla Rabida
Isla Santa Cruz Isla Isabela Isla Floreana
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Isla Santa Fe Isla San Cristobal Isla Espanola
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Best of Galapagos 10 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO
Quito
Explore the Galapagos Islands on this in-depth adventure, coming face-to-face with some of the most extraordinary wildlife on earth.
Isla Baltra Isla Santa Cruz Isla Isabela
Swim, kayak and hike through the Galapagos’ unique environments from the shores to to the highlands. Get acquainted with the beautiful churches and graceful boulevards of Quito, Ecuador’s capital. Day 1 Quito Arrive in Quito, Ecuador’s vibrant capital nestled beneath Volcan Pichincha. Its many churches, cathedrals and colonial mansions reflect the fascinating history of the region. Days 2-3 Isla San Cristobal Fly to Isla San Cristobal in the Galapagos archipelago. Go snorkelling at La Loberia, saying hi to the cheeky sea lions that swim and sunbathe here. Head to Isla de Lobos or Kicker Rock to observe blue-footed boobies and to swim or snorkel among turtles and manta rays. Learn about the history of the ’Enchanted Islands’ and local projects dedicated to preserving the unique Galapagos wildlife on a visit to the Interpretation Center. Days 4-6 Isla Floreana/Isla Isabela Glimpse dolphins frolicking in the waves and experience some of the Galapagos’ best snorkelling at Isla Floreana. Venture into Floreana’s highlands to visit the mysterious pirate and whaler caves. Hop aboard a panga (small boats) to explore Shark Alley, a
EC U A D OR
GALA PA GOS ISLA N D S
popular nesting site for marine iguanas. Embark on a challenging, but rewarding hike up a rocky volcano. Days 7-8 Isla Santa Cruz Head out on a morning ocean kayak in search of the Galapagos penguin before cruising to Isla Santa Cruz. Hike to the white sands of Tortuga Bay and kayak in the protected bay, among thorny marine iguanas bobbing in the breakers. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to meet the various tortoises and land iguanas rescued from the brink of extinction. Days 9-10 Santa Cruz Highlands/ Isla Baltra/Quito Journey into the highlands of Santa Cruz and see the subterranean lava tunnels that have created a unique habitat for wildlife. Observe giant tortoises in the wild before saying goodbye to these incredible islands and jumping on a flight back to Quito. Hit the markets for some souvenir shopping or grab a fresh juice before your journey across the Galapagos comes to an end.
Isla San Cristobal Isla Floreana
GGTF
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (9 nts) 9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinner Plane, speed boat, private vehicle, taxi, local bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Galapagos & Inca Trail Adventure 17 DAYS, QUITO TO CUSCO Snorkel the incredible life-filled waters of Kicker Rock, also known as Leon Dormido, one of the best snorkelling spots in the Galapagos. Follow the forested path of the Inca Trail, passing through cloud forests and ancient ruins, on the road to amazing Machu Picchu. Day 1 Quito Explore Quito’s picturesque streets and cobblestone alleys. Days 2-3 Isla San Cristobal Head to Isla de Lobos or Kicker Rock for your first snorkel, then visit the Galapagos’ Interpretation Center. Days 4-6 Isla Floreana/Isla Isabela Venture into Floreana’s highlands to visit the pirate caves, snorkel and explore Shark Alley. Enjoy a morning kayak then take a speedboat to Santa Cruz. Days 7-8 Isla Santa Cruz Hike to the white sands of Tortuga Bay then visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Day 9 Quito Return to Quito via a short flight. Day 10 Lima Take an included flight to Lima. Day 11 Cusco Guided tour of Cusco and visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman. Day 12 Sacred Valley/ Ollantaytambo Travel through the terraced Sacred Valley. Days 13-16 Inca Trail/Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Picchu Choose to follow the Inca or Quarry Trail, trekking through cloud forest and ancient ruins, or sit back and travel by train to Machu Picchu. Tour the iconic site with a guide. Day 17 Cusco The adventure ends after breakfast.
E C U A D OR Galapagos Islands
Quito
PERU
GA LA PA GOS ISLA N D S Isla Santa Cruz Isla Isabela
Isla San Cristobal
Lima
Inca Trail
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley Cusco
Machu Picchu
Isla Floreana
Flight not included
GGTWC
ORIGINAL
Hike
Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (13 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts)
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
15 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 3 dinners
Selected Saturdays & Thursdays Enter GGTWC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices.
Plane, speed boat, private vehicle, local bus
Galapagos & Peru Adventure 24 DAYS, QUITO TO LA PAZ Visit the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon Jungle to meet the many species that call these nature reserves home. This trip is a nature lover’s dream. Scale a volcano on Isla Isabela and take the scenic trek along the Inca trail, emerging from cloud forests to Machu Picchu. Day 1 Quito Begin in Ecuador’s vibrant capital. Days 2-3 Isla San Cristobal Snorkel at La Loberia, head to Isla de Lobos or Kicker Rock to swim or snorkel among turtles and rays. Days 4-6 Isla Floreana/Isla Isabela Enjoy some of the archiepelago’s best snorkelling. Days 7-8 Isla Santa Cruz Head out on a kayak in search of the Galapagos penguin. Day 9 Quito Return to Quito. Day 10 Lima Fly (not included) to Peru’s sprawling capital. Days 11-12 Amazon Jungle Canoe into the dense Amazon Jungle. Day 13 Cusco Visit impressive Inca ruins on the city’s outskirts. Day 14 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo Watch magnificent Andean condors soar. Days 15-18 Inca Trail/ Quarry Trail/Train to Machu Picchu Embark on a multi-day trek along the Inca or Quarry Trail, or travel by train to Machu Picchu. Day 19 Cusco Return to Cusco. Days 20-22 Puno/Lake Titicaca Cruise to the floating Uros Islands, constructed entirely from reeds. Days 23-24 La Paz Check out the Witches’ Market before this adventure ends. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Quito Galapagos Islands
GA LA PA GOS ISLA N D S
Isla Santa Cruz Isla Isabela
PERU Inca Trail
E C U A D OR Ollantaytambo
Lima
Isla San Machu Cristobal Picchu
Amazon Jungle Lake Titicaca
La Paz
Sacred Valley
Isla Floreana
Puno BOLIV IA Cusco
Flight not included
GGSYC Hike
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (17 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) 21 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 7 dinners Plane, speed boat, private vehicle, local bus
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Galapagos Venture 9 DAYS, QUITO TO QUITO Bird watching in the Galapagos is quite an experience. Watch the aerobatic routines of blue-footed boobies and the death-defying stunts of frigatebirds.
Many come to Isla Santa Cruz just for the giant tortoises. Get up close and personal with these enormous animals, as they drag themselves through the sand. of the islands to see these giants in their natural habitat. Days 5-6 Isla Isabela Travel by boat to the Galapagos’ largest island: seahorse-shaped Isla Isabela. Perhaps use your free time to explore Las Tintoreras, home of the rare Galapagos penguin. Visit the island’s Giant Tortoise Breeding Center to learn more about these ancient creatures, while sea turtles, rays and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish can often be spotted on snorkelling outings off the coast. Day 7 Isla Santa Cruz Travel back to Isla Santa Cruz. Consider wandering the pristine, white sandy beach of Tortuga Bay for the opportunity to view some of the Galapagos’ most famous creatures. Days 8-9 Quito Bid farewell to the wildlife wonderland that is the Galapagos Islands. Head back to Quito, where there’s time to enjoy the city’s nightlife and get a last taste of Ecuadorian cuisine and culture. Perhaps celebrate by searching out some of Ecuador’s best ceviche.
Quito
Isla Santa Cruz Isla Isabela Isla San Cristobal
Learn about the unique habit of the marine iguana. This dinosaur-like little creature has an iridescent sheen and is only found on the Galapagos Islands.
Day 1 Quito Nestled in a sprawling valley, Quito is a South American capital well worth exploring. Wander the colonial-style cobblestone streets and elegant architecture of the World Heritage-listed Old Town. Days 2-3 Isla San Cristobal Catch a morning flight to Isla San Cristobal, then take a guided afternoon visit to the Interpretation Center – home to exhibitions on natural history, human history and preservation of the island’s vibrant wildlife. Learn more about the conservation movement and the process of sustainable tourism on the Galapagos Island. With plenty of free time to explore, perhaps travel to Kicker Rock, or go snorkelling to spot swarms of colourful Galapagos marine life. Day 4 Isla Santa Cruz Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and learn about the foundation’s success in repopulating the islands with the once-endangered land iguana and several species of giant tortoise. Head to the higher part
E C U A D OR
GALA PA GOS IS LA N D S
GGRR
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (8 nts) 8 breakfasts Plane, speed boat, private vehicle, local bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Potosi, Bolivia
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Explore Peru & Bolivia 25 DAYS, LIMA TO LA PAZ
Ollantaytambo
Sacred Valley
Inca Trail
Amazon Jungle Lake Titicaca La Paz
Machu Picchu
Marvel at the mother of all Inca cities, Machu Picchu. Learn the history of this iconic archaeological complex with a guide, then have free time to explore on your own. Discover underground history in Potosi. Famed for its wealth of silver, it was once one of the richest cities in the world, and is still one of the highest. Ride in a 4WD vehicle through the surreal landscapes of the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia's sprawling salt flats, where the laws of physics seem to not apply. Day 1 Lima Arrive in Peru’s sprawling capital, Lima, and unravel its fascinating history on a walking tour around the city’s major sights. Days 2-3 Amazon Jungle Fly to the frontier town of Puerto Maldonado and travel by canoe into the dense Amazon Jungle. Explore the world’s largest jungle, keeping an eye out for macaws, monkeys and other local wildlife. Day 4 Cusco A town perfectly suited to exploration on foot – discover Cusco's central plaza’s ornate colonial churches and then head for the impressive Inca ruins dotting the city’s outskirts. Day 5 Sacred Valley/ Ollantaytambo Travel by private bus through the lush terraces of the Sacred Valley, stopping en route at a local village to gain an insight into traditional Inca culture. Meet friendly locals on a community visit before spending the night in the ancient town of Ollantaytambo. Days 6-9 Inca Trail//Quarry Trail/
Lima
Train to Machu Picchu If you choose to trek the Inca or Quarry Trail, be prepared for the astounding views on offer along the high plateaux, hike through dense forests and stop to observe the ruins of ancient villages and temples. Otherwise, travel to Machu Picchu by train. Day 10 Cusco Get reacquainted. Days 11-13 Puno/Lake Titicaca Visit the floating reed islands of the Uros and enjoy local hospitality on a family homestay. Days 14-15 La Paz Acclimatise to the clear mountain air of lofty La Paz. Days 16-19 Uyuni/Salar de Uyuni Marvel at an other-worldly landscape. View red lakes dotted with pink flamingos and houses that are made totally out of salt. Day 20 Potosi Learn about Potosi’s history of silver mining in this fascinating city. Days 21-23 Sucre Wander Sucre’s colonial buildings and quaint plazas. Days 24-25 La Paz Perhaps wrap up the trip with a group dinner of Bolivian cuisine.
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Cusco P E R U Puno
B OLIV IA
Sucre Potosi Uyuni Salar de Uyuni Inca Trail or non-hiking option available
GGSUC Hike
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (16 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), homestay (1 nt), dormitory (2 nts) 22 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners Plane, 4WD , private vehicle, boat, canoe, public bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
Machu Picchu, Peru
Explore Peru, Argentina & Brazil 18 DAYS, LIMA TO RIO DE JANEIRO Experience an incredible day among the ruins of Machu Picchu. Learn about the Inca citadel’s history on a guided tour and then wander the site at your own pace. Explore the lush landscapes of the Ibera Wetlands in search of otters, howler monkeys and a vast array of colourful birds. With included visits to Iguazu Falls from both the Argentinean and Brazilian sides, you’ll get the most out of this jaw-dropping natural wonder. Day 1 Lima Arrive in Lima, Peru’s coastal capital, and take a walking tour around its major sights. Day 2 Cusco Fly to Cusco and take a slow stroll around the Inca-built walls lining the cobblestone streets, or head to the central plaza and be immersed in local life. Day 3 Aguas Calientes Nestled in the cloud forests at the foot of Machu Picchu is Aguas Calientes. Take the opportunity to relax before tomorrow’s exploration of Machu Picchu. Days 4-5 Machu Picchu/Cusco Rise early and spend a day at Machu Picchu – Peru’s jaw-dropping Inca citadel. Explore the iconic ruins with a local guide, taking advantage of the awesome photo opportunities. Travel back to Cusco for another two nights in this beguiling city. Days 6-7 Puno/Lake Titicaca Cruise the world’s highest navigable lake and see the floating Uros Islands, which were constructed by hand entirely from reeds. Travel back to the shores of Lake Titicaca and be
welcomed into the home of a friendly local family for an overnight stay. Participate in a lively game of soccer or pick up some quality knitted goods. Day 8 Lima Get reacquainted with Peru’s cosmopolitan capital city. Days 9-10 Buenos Aires Fly (not included) to Buenos Aires. A blend of European chic and Latin heat makes this city a truly seductive place. Wander its neighbourhoods and discover colonial architecture, outdoor markets and delicious local cuisine. Days 11-12 Ituzaingo/Ibera Wetlands Cruise around the world’s second-largest wetlands, spotting capybaras, howler monkeys and incredible birdlife. Days 13-15 Iguazu Falls Explore the lush forests and roaring falls of Iguazu. Visit a Guarani community for the rare opportunity to meet the local indigenous people. Days 16-18 Rio de Janeiro Travel to Brazil’s festive heart. Soak up the beauty of Guanabara Bay and its white-sand shores from the top of Corcovado.
PE R U Aguas Calientes Lima
Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu
Cusco Lake Titicaca Puno
Flight not included
B R A ZIL
Ituzaingo Iguazu Falls Ibera Wetlands
A R GEN TIN A
GGSGC
Rio de Janeiro
Buenos Aires
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (16 nts), homestay (1 nt) 17 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Plane, train, private vehicle, boat, local bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Amazon River
Ultimate Peru, Argentina & Brazil 30 DAYS, LIMA TO RIO DE JANEIRO Explore Cusco, the cultural heart of Peru. The city has an interesting blend of Inca and colonial influences and is a dream to explore on foot. From the depths of the Amazon Jungle to the thundering cascades of Iguazu, this trip covers an incredible spread of South America’s natural wonders. There’s no better place to wind up than on the white shores of Rio’s beaches. Soak up the surf and sun and climb Corcovado for an unforgettable view. Day 1 Lima Dive into the sights and delights of Lima. Day 2 Pisco Set out on a guided tour of downtown Lima before heading to Pisco, the birthplace of Peru’s beloved Pisco sour. Day 3 Nazca Take an optional trip to visit the Ballestas Island before heading to Nazca, home to the Nazca Lines. The best way to see these mysterious markings is with a flight over the desert in a light plane (not included). Days 4-5 Arequipa Found at the foot of volcano El Misti, Arequipa is a charming spot. Days 6-7 Chivay/Colca Canyon Gaze in awe at the depth of the Colca Canyon and look out for resident Andean condors. Days 8-10 Puno/ Lake Titicaca Cross the Andes to explore the vast expanse of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the floating islands and stay with a local family. Days 11-12 Cusco Discover Inca ruins and baroque churches in the continent’s oldest city.
Days 13-16 Inca Trail/Machu Picchu Embark on the trek of a lifetime to Machu Picchu and explore the ruins. Day 17 Cusco Rest those weary legs back in Cusco. Days 18-19 Amazon Jungle Fly to Puerto Maldonado. Take a canoe down the Amazon to stay in an eco-friendly lodge. Day 20 Lima Bid adios to mystical Peru. Days 21-22 Buenos Aires Immerse yourself in vivacious Buenos Aires. Days 23-24 Ituzaingo/Ibera Wetlands Cruise around the world’s second-largest wetlands, spotting capybaras and howler monkeys. Days 25-27 Iguazu Falls Explore the lush forests and roaring falls of Iguazu. Visit a Guarani community for the rare opportunity to meet the local indigenous people. Days 28-30 Rio de Janeiro Travel to Brazil’s festive heart. Soak up the beauty of Guanabara Bay and its white-sand shores from the top of Corcovado before this epic adventure ends.
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PE R U Lima Pisco
Machu Picchu
Inca Trail Amazon Jungle Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley
Chivay
Cusco Lake Titicaca
B R A ZIL
Nazca Puno Colca Canyon Arequipa Iguazu Falls Ituzaingo Flight not Ibera Wetlands included
AR GEN TIN A
GGSAC Hike
Rio de Janeiro
Buenos Aires
ORIGINAL Non-Hike
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (22 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), homestay (2 nights) 28 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 6 dinners Plane, private vehicle, boat, canoe, local bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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food with altitude Neighbouring Peru might be the popular kid when it comes to South American cuisine, but this La Paz day tour is out to put Bolivia in the spotlight. Taste fresh organic fruits, fish dishes right from Lake Titicaca, tasty snacks you’ve never heard of, and even make a stop at a Bolivian chocolate factory. Ready, set, EAT! For more info head to urbanadventures.com El Tatio, Chile
Bolivia Highlights
B OLIV IA
12 DAYS, LA PAZ TO LA PAZ
La Paz Sucre
Head near Sucre to compare shoe sizes with a dinosaur at the world’s largest collection of fossilised footprints, where 68-million-year-old impressions have been discovered.
Potosi Uyuni
Empty, haunting and spectacular: perspectives are bent on the surreal and seemingly endless Salar de Uyuni salt flats. Days 1-2 La Paz This lofty city is Bolvia’s centre of industry, with plenty of nooks, crannies and side streets packed with market stalls for you to explore. Days 3-6 Uyuni/Salar de Uyuni Travel by 4WD from the desert outpost of Uyuni to the stunning landscapes of the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia’s vast saltpan. See the blood-red waters of Laguna Colorado and the jagged, cactus-crowded Inca Wasi. Day 7 Potosi Once one of the world’s richest cities due to its silver mines, Potosi retains many architectural remnants of its lavish past. Days 8-10 Sucre Wander past whitewashed colonial buildings in Bolivia’s capital and take a hike along pre-Inca paths through some extraordinary Andean landscapes. Days 11-12 La Paz Return to quirky La Paz, a curious melting pot of modern commerce and ancient traditions. Why not visit the Witches’ Market – brimming with unusual trinkets and curious sights, locals come here for herbs, folk remedies and fortune-telling services. Keep an eye out for yatiris (witch doctors).
Salar de Uyuni
GGSV
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (9 nts), dormitory (2 nts) 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Plane, 4WD vehicle, private vehicle, local bus
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Best of Chile
C H ILE
8 DAYS, SANTIAGO TO SANTIAGO
San Pedro de Atacama
Contrast Santiago’s historic city streets with the scenic vineyards of the Casablanca Valley, Chile’s fastest-growing wine hotspot. Visit the other-worldly El Tatio, one of the highest geyser fields in the world at 4300 metres above sea level. Day 1 Santiago Bienvenidos! Welcome to Chile. Check out the compact city centre, or maybe explore the bohemian quarter, Barrio Bellavista. Day 2 Valparaiso Stop in the Casablanca Valley for a wine tasting then continue to Valparaiso, known for its brightly hued houses overlooking the ocean. Day 3 Valparaiso Explore this colourful, chaotic town on a guided tour that finishes up in Muelle Prat, a nice spot to watch sailors arrive in their lanchas (small ships) and to soak up the general buzz and bustle of harbourside life. Days 4-6 San Pedro de Atacama Venture to the Atacama Desert and discover Moon Valley, a geological spectacle of many colours. Pay a visit to one of the highest-elevation geyser fields in the world, El Tatio. Enjoy a day to explore at your own pace, perhaps visiting the hot springs and nearby lagunas, or setting out on one of the various hikes. Days 7-8 Santiago Fly back to Santiago, where the afternoon and evening are free for you to roam at a leisurely pace. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Valparaiso Santiago
GGSI
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts) 7 breakfasts Plane, private vehicle, taxi
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Santa teresa discovery There’s more to Rio than its well-loved beaches and nightlife. Get your culture fix as you ride the city’s last tram line, take a snap on Selaron’s Staircase and delve into the local arts scene during this four-hour walking tour through the bohemian Santa Teresa district, an eclectic hilltop home for many local artists. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Best of Bolivia & Argentina 15 DAYS, LA PAZ TO BUENOS AIRES From diverse landscapes to deep-rooted cultures and contrasting destinations, this trip covers a lot of ground across South America in a relatively short period of time. The landscapes of Salar de Uyuni are almost extraterrestrial. Embark on an adventure across the rocky Atacama Desert, sprinkled with volcanos, lakes and salt flats. Days 1-2 La Paz Look for magic potions in the Witches’ Market or head to the Coca Museum to learn about the plant that is still an essential part of life in Bolivia. Days 3-4 Sucre Compare footprints with those of a dinosaur at Cal Orcko or head to La Recoleta, an old convent at the top of a hill. Day 5 Potosi This colonial mining city sits at the base of the silver-rich mountain Cerro Rico, and was once the world’s richest city. Days 6-8 Uyuni/Salar de Uyuni See gleaming salt flats, cactus-studded islands, multicoloured lakes and the surprisingly abundant wildlife of the surreal Salar de Uyuni. Day 9 San Pedro de Atacama Travel to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. Located in the Atacama Desert, this oasis town has low-lying adobe buildings lining narrow streets. Days 10-11 Salta Delve into the pre-Columbian and colonial history of one of Argentina’s most splendid towns. Days 12-15 Buenos Aires Fly to the elegant city of Buenos Aires and enjoy time in colourful neighbourhoods, museums and tango bars. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Best of Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil 10 DAYS, BUENOS AIRES TO RIO DE JANEIRO The mighty Iguazu Falls straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil – get a glimpse of these monolithic cascades from both sides. Whether it’s working with livestock or simply relaxing on the ranch, experience a unique way of life on a Uruguayan estancia. Day 1 Buenos Aires Venture through the city’s antique markets and colourful barrios, such as lively La Boca and funky Palermo. Day 2 Colonia Take the ferry to Colonia and admire this charming colonial city’s narrow streets and sandstone architecture. Maybe stop in at one of the many local museums. Days 3-6 Estancia Stay Get a taste of what it’s like to be a cowboy by helping the gauchos to herd sheep and cattle. Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals and learn about this unique culture. Days 7-8 Iguazu Falls Wider than Victoria Falls, higher than Niagara and covered in swathes of lush jungle, the Iguazu Falls are a truly awe-inspring spectacle to behold and explore – spend time soaking up the sights over these next two days. Days 9-10 Rio de Janeiro Welcome to Brazil’s cultural capital. Hit the beach at Copacabana or Ipanema, take an optional hike up Sugarloaf Mountain for stunning bay views, or revel ‘til you drop at the local bars of this sensational city before the adventure comes to a close. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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La Paz Potosi Salar de Uyuni San Pedro de Atacama
BOLIV IA Sucre Uyuni
C H ILE
Salta
AR GEN TIN A Buenos Aires
GGBJ
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (11 nts), dormitory (2 nts), overnight bus (1 nt) 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Plane, overnight bus, 4WD vehicle, local bus
Iguazu Falls
BR A ZIL
Rio de Janeiro
A R GEN TIN A Estancia Stay Colonia
U R U GU AY
Buenos Aires
GGBS
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (5 nts), estancia stay (3 nts), overnight bus (1 nt) 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Plane, overnight bus, ferry, local bus
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Buenos Aires to Rio Explorer 17 DAYS, BUENOS AIRES TO RIO DE JANEIRO Soak up the cosmopolitan European and Latin charms of Buenos Aires and explore the sights of its historic city centre. Step back in time in the traffic-free streets of colonial Paraty, where the jungle meets the sea and relaxation meets adventure. Day 1 Buenos Aires Explore the city’s colourful barrios. Day 2 Colonia Wander Colonia’s narrow streets and admire the homely mix of sandstone architecture at every twist and turn. Days 3-6 Estancia Stay Spend a few days experiencing the real deal of a working Uruguayan farm, helping the gauchos. Enjoy delicious homecooked meals and learn about this unique culture. Days 7-8 Iguazu Falls Visit Argentina’s most breathtaking attraction, the mighty Iguazu Falls. Days 9-10 Rio de Janeiro Sprawl out on Ipanema Beach, take an optional hike up Sugarloaf Mountain, or try your hand at samba in a local bar. Days 11-12 Paraty Settle in for some rest and relaxation in Paraty. Walk the cobbled streets or head off along the network of jungle trails in search of waterfalls. Days 13-15 Ilha Grande This island escape is one of Brazil’s most idyllic getaways. Days 16-17 Rio de Janeiro Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a final meal of grilled meats sliced straight off the spit at a local churrascaria.
Rio de Janeiro
Iguazu Falls Paraty
B R A ZIL
A R GEN TIN A
Ilha Grande
Estancia Stay
U R U GU AY
Colonia Buenos Aires
GGBDC
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (12 nts), estancia stay (3 nts), overnight bus (1 nt) 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Plane, overnight bus, boat, bus, van, private vehicle, ferry, public bus, taxi
Selected Fridays Enter GGBDC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Best of Brazil 8 DAYS, RIO DE JANEIRO TO RIO DE JANEIRO
BR A ZIL Rio de Janeiro
Enjoy two full days of free time to discover virgin rainforest, crystal lagoons and some of Brazil’s best beaches in Ilha Grande – Brazil’s undeveloped island paradise.
Paraty Ilha Grande
All the legends about Rio de Janeiro are true. Stretch out on wide-open beaches, learn the samba on the streets of Copacabana and taste your first caipirinha. Day 1 Rio de Janeiro Bem-Vindos! Welcome to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s cultural capital. Days 2-3 Paraty Continue to Paraty, a cute colonial town with plenty of cultural charm. Dawdle along wide cobblestone streets, hike along jungle trails to find waterfalls and spot some wildlife, or sign up for an expedition on horseback. An optional excursion to the nearby village of Trindade, which boasts some of Brazil’s best beaches, is well worth the effort. Days 4-6 Ilha Grande With its tropical beaches and steamy rainforest, Ilha Grande is one of Brazil’s most idyllic island getaways. Perhaps hike through the island’s rainforests and discover secluded beaches such as Lopes Mendes or Aventureiro – or tuck into some of the fresh, locally caught seafood. Days 7-8 Rio de Janeiro Return to Rio. Explore this thriving metropolis, set against the luminescent green of Guanabara Bay and surrounded by the slopes of Sugarloaf and Corcovado. Perhaps hit the town with your group and toast to your adventure with one last caipirinha. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays Enter GGBR on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
GGBR
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (7 nts) 1 breakfast Boat, ferry, van, private vehicle, public bus, taxi
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made in rio de janeiro Discover the artistic soul of Brazil in galleries and workshops you’d never find on your own. Explore bohemian Santa Teresa, visit a famous local artist’s studio and learn about local empowerment through social entrepreurship during this day tour of Rio. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Santiago, Chile
Best of Chile & Argentina 8 DAYS, SANTIAGO TO BUENOS AIRES Discover the colonial charm, neoclassical plazas and stylish neighbourhoods of Santiago. This city is packed full of history and is a great place to explore on foot.
C H ILE Santiago Mendoza Buenos Aires Estancia Stay
Take part in the daily routines and duties of a gaucho on a traditional Argentinean estancia, a unique retreat for any traveller. Days 1-2 Santiago With its picturesque Plaza de Armas, thriving cafe culture, eclectic shops and vibrant nightlife, Santiago is an excellent introduction to South America. Learn about the city on a guided walking tour. Days 3-4 Mendoza Cross over the Andes into Mendoza, Argentina. Learn about malbec wines and the local winemaking industry on a tour of some nearby wineries, which includes a tasting and a delicious lunch showcasing the best local produce. Enjoy laidback afternoons in the city’s plaza cafes then, when the sun goes down, perhaps head to the lively bars along Aristides Villanueva Avenue. Days 5-6 Estancia Stay Travel out to a traditional Argentinean estancia and learn the skills of a gaucho. Go horse riding, work with cattle, take a cooking class or learn more about the sport of polo. Days 7-8 Buenos Aires Argentina’s capital is a top spot to shop, dine and drink. Stroll the streets of unique barrios such as colonial San Telmo or Recoleta, home to many interesting museums and galleries. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GPKG on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
A R GEN TIN A
GPKG
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), estancia stay (2 nts) 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Plane, private vehicle, local bus
Best of Argentina & Brazil
BR A ZIL Rio de Janeiro
7 DAYS, BUENOS AIRES TO RIO DE JANEIRO
Iguazu Falls
Buenos Aires offers an eclectic mix of European and Latin flavours. Explore the neighbourhoods of this lively city on a full-day tour with a local guide. In the heaving metropolis of Rio, everyone’s invited to the party. Immerse yourself in Brazilian culture, dance and music. Days 1-2 Buenos Aires Buenos Dias! Welcome to Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital. Spend a day with a local leader seeing the city, mixing up iconic sights with hidden gems only ‘portenos’ know about. Days 3-4 Iguazu Falls Discover the jaw-dropping magnitude of Iguazu Falls, where tropical flowers, colourful butterflies and misty rainbows all add to the magic of this spectacular destination. The mighty roar of the falls is deafening – prepare yourself for nature at its most powerful! Admire the falls from either the Brazilian or the Argentinean side and perhaps zip out on a Zodiac to witness the pounding deluge from only a few feet away. Days 5-7 Rio de Janeiro There is plenty to see and do in flamboyant, rambunctious Rio de Janeiro. Visit Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado and admire amazing panoramas of the city, or head to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car. For some seriously eye-popping sights, head down to the white-sand beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and enjoy the gentle surf. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Buenos Aires
A R GEN TIN A
GPKB
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (6 nts) 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch Plane, private vehicle
Plaza de Mulas, Argentina
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Argentina & Brazil Adventure 10 DAYS, BUENOS AIRES TO RIO DE JANEIRO Tour Buenos Aires’ best sights, then visit its many corners at your leisure, from the star-studded Recoleta Cemetery to the tucked-away milongas (tango halls).
Iguazu Falls Ituzaingo
A R GEN TIN A
Explore the lush landscapes of the Ibera Wetlands in search of anacondas, otters, howler monkeys and a vast array of colourful birds. Days 1-2 Buenos Aires Dive into the vivacious spirit of Latin life in Buenos Aires. On your walking tour, brush up on your Spanish and learn a little more about Argentina’s independence from Spain. Days 3-4 Ituzaingo/Ibera Wetlands Cruise through the world’s second-largest wetlands. Cruise through this fertile area of Ituzaingo on an animal-spotting safari. Days 5-7 Iguazu Falls Explore Iguazu Falls – taller than Niagara Falls and twice as wide. Visit a Guarani community for the rare opportunity to meet some of the region’s few remaining indigenous people. Days 8-10 Rio de Janeiro Soak up the beauty of Guanabara Bay and its white-sand shores from the top of Corcovado, where the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer welcomes you with open arms. Check out the famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches for a dose of the local scene. Make sure to taste a caipirinha before this sultry adventure ends.
Rio de Janeiro
B R A ZIL
Ibera Wetlands
Buenos Aires
GGSW
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (9 nts) 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GGSW on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Plane, local bus, private vehicle, boat
Argentina Expedition: Aconcagua Base & Mt Bonete
A R GE N TIN A
10 DAYS, MENDOZA VIA PARQUE PROVINCIAL ACONCAGUA
Aconcagua Mendoza
Come face-to-face with Aconcagua, the Southern Hemisphere’s highest mountain, and walk through glacial valleys and over rugged Andean peaks on an adventurous trek. Sample South America’s favourite wine, malbec, from its mountainous source – learn about Mendoza’s traditional and industrial wineries. Day 1 Mendoza Meet your fellow travellers this evening. Day 2 Mendoza Visit a few local wineries with an expert guide. Day 3 Confluencia Commence trek to Aconcagua’s first camp at Confluencia (4–5 hours, 3400 m). Day 4 Plaza Francia Trek 6–8 hours to Plaza Francia (4200 m) below Aconcagua’s south wall. Day 5 Plaza de Mulas Trek 8–10 hours to Plaza de Mulas (4300 m), a popular base camp. Day 6 Rest Day Rest, acclimatise and review equipment for tomorrow. Day 7 Mt Bonete Summit Mt Bonete (5000 m) for expansive views of Aconcagua’s western wall, the base camp below and the never-ending peaks and valleys of the Andes. Day 8 Rest Day Recover, then explore the area and chat with trekkers and mountaineers from around the world. Day 9 Penitentes/ Mendoza Descend to Penitentes and transfer to Mendoza for a final evening to celebrate this adventure with your group. Day 10 Mendoza Your trip ends this morning after breakfast. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays in January, February & December Enter GGXB on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
GGXB
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (3 nts), camping (6 nts) 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners Private vehicle
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Santiago, Chile
the residents of art street A day tour for foodies and fans of street art: come meet the people of Santiago’s San Miguel. Learn how this community became an open-air street art museum with more than 40 giant murals, then sit down with a local family for a tasty traditional dinner. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Mendoza, Argentina
Chile, Argentina & Brazil 14 DAYS, SANTIAGO TO RIO DE JANEIRO Wind through the country lanes of the Mendoza wine region – the world’s largest producer of malbec. Indulge in the cuisine, culture and nightlife of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. Argentine produce is some of the best in the world. Gaze over the dazzling city, mountains and bay of Rio de Janeiro from the foot of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue. Days 1-2 Santiago This fun, rewarding capital makes for an excellent introduction to South America. Head out on a tour of the city and let a local show you the sights and hidden secrets. Days 3-4 Mendoza Take a scenic ride through the Andes to Mendoza. Discover the celebrated local winemaking scene on a vineyard tour and taste the region’s signature varietal – malbec. In the evening, perhaps test how refined your palate is by pairing the perfect wine with an authentic Argentinean asado (barbecue-style food). Days 5-6 Estancia Stay Fly to Buenos Aires and transfer to a traditional estancia. Discover gaucho life, such as cattle wrangling and horse riding, or simply relax by the pool. Enjoy a classic Argentine barbecue. Days 7-9 Buenos Aires Get the most out of this city, unlike any other, on a guided tour. Discover Buenos Aires’ colourful neighbourhoods, vibrant markets, stately architecture and delicious
restaurants. The eclectic array of boutiques are an excellent destination for fashionistas and the bars and restaurants will satisfy even the most refined culinary cravings. Days 10-11 Iguazu Falls Fly to Puerto Iguazu and prepare to be awed by Iguazu Falls. Spend time on both the Argentinean and Brazilian sides of the falls, where cascading waters throw up a mist that makes the tropical flowers, colourful butterflies and rainbows all the more spectacular. For those wanting a different perspective, zip out on a Zodiac to the base and witness the deluge from just a few metres away. Pay a visit to one of the last remaining Guarani communities. Days 12-14 Rio de Janeiro Explore the ins and outs of beautiful Rio on a tour with a local guide. Visit Christ the Redeemer and admire the stunning views from atop Corcovado, or get sweaty with the locals in the samba clubs of bohemian Lapa.
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Rio de Janeiro
Iguazu Falls
C H IL E Santiago Mendoza
BR AZ IL Buenos Aires Estancia Stay
AR GEN T IN A
GPKRC
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (11 nts), estancia stay (2 nts) 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Plane, private vehicle, local bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Valley of Tears, Argentina
Mt Fitz Roy, Argentina
Argentina Expedition: Trek Mendoza & the Valley of Tears
A R GE N TIN A
8 DAYS, MENDOZA TO MENDOZA
Mendoza
Explore the heart of the Argentinean wine country then trek to the site of one of the most famous plane crashes in history, Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571.
San Rafael
Glacier of Tears
Trek through the rugged Andes and see the bittersweet beauty of the landscape the survivors were faced with when they were stranded for 72 days. Day 1 Mendoza Welcome to Mendoza, the heart of the Argentinean wine country. Meet your group and take an orientation walk around town. Day 2 Mendoza Take a wine tour and learn about Mendoza’s traditional and industrial wineries. Free evening. Day 3 San Rafael Depart Mendoza and travel to San Rafael, then on to your campsite for the night. Dinner at camp. Day 4 Trek Hike 5–6 hours to your camp at 2550 m. While our gear is carried by mules, this is participatory camping and the group will help set up camp for the evening. Day 5 Trek Walk through the Valley of Tears until reaching the Glacier of Tears, located at 3600 m. Climb up to a commemorative cross at the site of the tragic accident before returning to last night’s campsite. Day 6 San Rafael Descend to base camp then continue to San Rafael for the night. Free evening to explore town. Days 7-8 Mendoza Depart San Rafael and travel to Mendoza for a final afternoon and evening and maybe organise a farewell dinner. Trip ends after breakfast on last day.
GGBU
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (4 nts), camping (3 nts) 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected dates Enter GGBU on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Private vehicle
Highlights of Patagonia
AR GEN TIN A
Buenos Aires
8 DAYS, BUENOS AIRES TO BUENOS AIRES Begin in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s sensational and sultry capital. A guided two-hour walk on the first day takes you through its key sights and colourful neighbourhoods. Hike through the incredible Patagonian wilderness on trails towards the tranquil lakes of Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre, savouring mountainside views as you go. Day 1 Buenos Aires Hola and welcome to Argentina! Day 2 El Chalten Fly south from Buenos Aires to El Calafate. Drive to the frontier town of El Chalten, north of Glacier National Park. Days 3-4 El Chalten Spend two days tackling two of the most amazing day treks in the area: Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre. Day 5 El Calafate Transfer from El Chalten to El Calafate. Use the opportunity to relax and unwind. Day 6 Perito Moreno Glacier/ El Calafate Spend the day exploring the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few glaciers that is advancing, not retreating. Photographers will enjoy capturing the epic scale and splendour of this natural wonder. Day 7 Buenos Aires Take a flight back to Buenos Aires. In the afternoon, witness a performance of Argentina’s most famous dance, the tango. A discussion, followed by an hour-long class in a private space, gives an in-depth overview of this intimate dance style. Day 8 Buenos Aires This adventure through Patagonia ends this morning. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GGCB on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Fitz Roy El Chalten Perito Moreno Glacier
GGCB
El Calafate
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts) 7 breakfasts Plane, private vehicle
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Torres del Paine National Park, Argentina
Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
Patagonia Wilderness 15 DAYS, BUENOS AIRES TO BUENOS AIRES Witness Argentina’s Perito Moreno Glacier; see and hear the crack of ice as great shards plunge into the water below. Explore the lakes and waterfalls of Torres del Paine National Park – if you can tear your eyes away from the magnificent landscape, look out for guanacos. Keep an eye out for sea lions, imperial cormorants and other wildlife as they play in the Beagle Channel, named for the ship that carried Darwin. Day 1 Buenos Aires Dive into buzzing Buenos Aires on a guided walk. The city’s neighbourhoods, each uniquely charming, are well worth exploring. Come evening time, perhaps match a famous Argentine steak with the perfect red wine or hit the all-hours nightlife. Days 2-4 El Chalten Fly to El Calafate and transfer to El Chalten. Take on at least two of the most popular day treks in the area: Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre. Days 5-6 Perito Moreno Glacier/El Calafate Marvel at Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the world’s few advancing glaciers and one of Argentina’s foremost attractions, located on the edge of Lago Argentino. Return to El Calafate for the night. Days 7-9 Torres del Paine National Park Trek through the dramatic granite pillars, sparkling lakes, stunning glaciers, gushing waterfalls and wild guanaco herds of Chilean Patagonia. Explore the park on a driving tour to get a better perspective
on just how immense this region is. Day 10 Puerto Natales Head further south to Puerto Natales. You won’t be in this formerly modest fishing port for long, but make sure you grab a boutique beer or sample a local wine while here. Days 11-13 Ushuaia Cross into Argentina and experience the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia. Cruise down the Beagle Channel and watch the marine wildlife playing along the shores of the small islands. Learn about this region’s unique flora and fauna and enjoy a traditional asado. Days 14-15 Buenos Aires Make your way back to the elegant boulevards and exquisite cuisine of Buenos Aires. Spend the final evening of this unforgettable trip through the Patagonian wilderness in one of the world’s great cities, taking advantage of the amazing food on offer and perhaps visiting a local bar or dancing the night away at a milonga (tango hall).
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ARGENTINA Buenos Aires
CHILE El Chalten /Glacier NP
El Calafate Santiago Torres del Paine NP
Perito Moreno Glacier Puerto Natales
GPTU
Ushuaia
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (11 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts) 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Plane, private vehicle, boat, local bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays Enter GPTU on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Torres del Paine National Park, Argentina
Patagonia, Argentina/Chile
Patagonia Trekking
Santiago
A R GEN TIN A Buenos Aires
10 DAYS, SANTIAGO TO BUENOS AIRES Discover two very different sides of Chile – the big-city pulse of soulful Santiago and the adventure-fuelled atmosphere of lakeside Puerto Natales.
C H ILE
Trek past granite pillars, sparkling lakes and gushing waterfalls in Torres del Paine National Park on a four-day camping trip with all your meals provided. Argentina’s Perito Moreno Glacier must be seen to be believed. This massive, blue-hued natural wonder is one of Patagonia’s real crown jewels. Day 1 Santiago Set out in Chile’s sultry Santiago and enjoy free time to indulge in the city’s cafe culture and art scene. Perhaps take a cable car up to Cerro San Cristobal – on a clear day the view is breathtaking. Day 2 Puerto Natales After a flight to Punta Arenas, watch the Patagonian landscapes roll by on the bus journey to Puerto Natales. Meet hikers in this town that’s the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Days 3-6 Torres del Paine National Park/W Trek Hike on a similar, yet improved version of Patagonia’s famous W Trek through dense lenga forest, over rocky tundra, alongside blue lakes, past immense mountains and to icy glaciers. As you walk, you’ll most likely be greeted by herds of guanacos. These strange animals provide great photo opportunities (but don’t get too close – they’re prone to spitting!). The park is also home to some impressive birds such as nandues, condors and
pink flamingos. At the end of each day, camp in the arms of nature and marvel at the wonder of this remote corner of the world. Days 7-8 Perito Moreno Glacier/ El Calafate Explore the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier. Admire the natural blue beauty of this imposing icy mass, one of the few glaciers in the world that is advancing, not retreating. Photographers will enjoy capturing the epic scale and splendour of this gigantic glacier. Chunks of ice frequently break off and plummet into the water below, which makes for quite a scene. Days 9-10 Buenos Aires Sample local cuisine and revel in the passionate atmosphere of Argentina’s capital. This is a city rich in culture and charisma so don’t miss out on the opportunity for indulgence. Why not head to the boutiques and pick up a fashionable reminder of Argentina, or try dancing the tango – the quintessential representation of Argentinean flair.
El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Torres del Paine NP Puerto Natales
GPTV
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), camping with basic facilities (4 nts) 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners Plane, private vehicle, boat, local bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays Enter GPTV on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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A bite of Santiago Become an honourary Santiaguino on this city tour taking you inside local life for the day. Blend in like your local guide as you taste and learn how to prepare traditional Chilean dishes, catch the best views of Santiago from the iconic cable car and dig in to lunch in bohemian Bellavista. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Patagonia, Argentina
Santiago, Chile
Highlights & Gems of Patagonia 14 DAYS, SANTIAGO TO BUENOS AIRES Hike under the shadow of Mt Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, two of the continent’s magnificent massifs, found in the incredible Patagonian wilderness. Check out vertical drops and chocolate shops in Bariloche, Argentina’s adventurous answer to the Swiss Alps. Day 1 Santiago Welcome to Chile! Meet your group and perhaps enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers. Day 2 Santiago/Pucon Enjoy a free day sightseeing in Santiago. Check out the central markets and Cerro San Cristobal before taking an overnight bus to to Pucon. Days 3-4 Pucon Pucon is home to almost any adventure activity you can fathom. Spend time on the lake, hike the surrounding mountains or kick back in the natural hot springs. Days 5-7 Bariloche Argentina’s answer to the Swiss Alps. Bariloche’s summer months are perfect for mountain biking, trekking and being an all-round rugged human. It’s also famous for its handmade chocolates. Days 8-12 El Calafate/El Chalten Depart Bariloche by plane. From these frontier towns you’ll visit Perito Moreno Glacier and hike both Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre, beneath Cerro Torre and Mount Fitz Roy. Days 13-14 Buenos Aires Fly to Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital for steak, wine and tango before the trip comes to an end. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays & Sundays Enter GGSJ on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Santiago
A R GEN TIN A Buenos Aires
Pucón San Carlos de Bariloche
C H ILE
El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier El Chaltén
GGSJ
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (11 nts), multishare cabin (2 nts) 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Plane, local bus
Falkland Islands Expedition: Past & Present 8 DAYS, STANLEY TO STANLEY
Volunteer Point Penguin Colony
Johnson’s Harbour
Explore Falklands War battle sites and get a sense of the scope of the conflict the islands are known for.
Moody Brook San Carlos Settlement Darwin
Fitzroy
Get up close and personal with a variety of penguins – massive king, red-beaked gentoo and black and white magellanic.
FA L K L A N D I S L A N D S
Day 1 Stanley Welcome to Stanley, a mix of a small English town and wild frontier outpost. Day 2 Gypsy Cove Spot magellanic penguins at Gypsy Cove and explore Stanley’s historic sights on a guided tour. Day 3 Argentine/British Cemeteries Pay your respects at the Argentine Cemetery. Continue to Goose Green, the location of the first land battle between Britain and Argentina during the war, and the British Cemetery. Day 4 Fitzroy Delve deeper into the recent history of the islands with a visit to Estancia Fitzroy, where Britain suffered their most severe casualties during the war. Day 5 Volunteer Point Traipse a long stretch of beach – home to a variety of penguin colonies. Day 6
GGKF
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12
Moody Brook Tackle rugged moors, meadows and hills with a hike. Days 7-8 Stanley Explore East Falkland at your own pace. Perhaps grab a pint and some fish and chips at a local pub before your expedition comes to an end.
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Gypsy Cove Stanley
Hotel (7 nts) 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch Private vehicle
Bogota, Colombia
Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Explore Colombia
Guachaca
Cartagena
Tayrona National Park
10 DAYS, CARTAGENA TO BOGOTA Wander beneath the floral balconies of Cartagena, the World Heritage-listed town that combines Caribbean splendour and irresistable old-world charm.
Barichara
The white and orange palette of Barichara turns the town into its own living artwork. Get lost on the cobblestone streets or head to San Gil – a hotspot for adventure sports.
Bogota
Days 1-2 Cartagena Set out on a guided walk around this walled city’s sights, perhaps easing into the evening with a few cervezas at a central plaza bar. Days 3-4 Guachaca Region/Tayrona National Park Your accommodation for the next two nights is a small, family-run hotel located near a beach – just the place for some coastal R&R. Wander through the Tayrona National Park for hikes through dramatic mountain scenery and verdant rainforest before swimming at some of Colombia’s most glorious beaches. Days 5-7 Barichara With its cobbled streets, stuccoed houses and verdant rolling hills, Barichara is widely considered the prettiest colonialstyle village in all of Colombia. Consider making the most of a range of adventure sport outings at San Gil, an exhilarating Colombian retreat. Days 8-10 Bogota Catch a gondola up Cerro de Monserrate for sweeping city views or perhaps pay a visit to Museo Nacional to learn how the Spanish conquest changed local life forever.
GGSC
C OLOMB IA
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (9 nts) 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GGSC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Plane, private vehicle, local bus
Cycle Colombia
COLOMBIA
Bosques del Saman
8 DAYS, BOGOTA TO BOGOTA
Pereira
Bogota is a treasure trove of Colombia’s rich history. Explore its museums and galleries at your leisure, then tour its excellent Paloquemao Market.
Cartago
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GGXX on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Bogota
Armenia
Cycle past steamy jungle scenery and coffee plantations as you ride through small colonial towns nestled in the verdant hills. Day 1 Bogota Arrive in Bogota to meet your group at 6 pm. Day 2 Armenia Cycle through the closed-off streets of Bogota with over one million locals for the Sunday tradition of Ciclovia. Fly to Armenia this evening. Day 3 Salento Cycle 50 km to Boquia via Salento. Expect steamy jungle scenery and a humid ride past coffee plantations. Day 4 Filandia Take a hike in the Cocora Valley this morning, a beautiful, verdant landscape dotted with palm trees. After lunch, ride 30 km from the Cocora Valley to Filandia, a smaller, less-visited, colourful colonial town. Day 5 Bosques del Saman Pedal 30 km mainly downhill to Bosques del Saman, a hotel built on a huge coffee farm. Take a break for a coffee tour midway, then try zip-lining on arrival. Day 6 Cartago Sweat it out on your final ride, a 70 km effort finishing with an ascent to Cerritos. Enjoy a massage and a swim at the hotel on arrival. Days 7-8 Bogota Fly back to Bogota, continue your explorations and say a fond farewell to your group.
Cocora Valley
Filandia Salento
GGXX
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (7 nts) 7 breakfasts, 3 dinners Bicycle, support vehicle, plane
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Cartagena, Colombia
Coffee Estancia, Colombia
Cafe Colombia
Cartagena
9 DAYS, BOGOTA TO CARTAGENA Bogota is a treasure trove of Colombia’s rich history. Explore its museums and colonial architecture at your leisure, then tour the excellent Paloquemao Market. Spend a couple of days learning about the world’s favourite bean during a stay on a traditional coffee estancia deep in Colombia’s coffee country. Embark on a spectacular guided hike through the Cocora Valley, home to hummingbirds and the world’s tallest palm trees. Day 1 Bogota Bienvenidos! Welcome to Colombia. Take a walking tour to discover the colonial architecture, old churches, cosy cafes and lively streets of this capital city. Day 2 Salento While away the hours on the narrow streets and colourful stalls of sleepy Salento. Be sure to try the town’s famous trout dishes and perhaps a game of tejo, Colombia’s popular sport – think bocce with gunpowder! Days 3-4 Coffee Estancia Travel by jeep deep into the Cocora Valley, home to legions of towering wax palms, Colombia’s national tree. You can choose to hike up to Acaime Nature Reserve, where colourful hummingbirds come to feed. Then venture into Colombia’s picturesque coffee country for a stay on a traditional coffee-growing plantation. You’ll tour the coffee plantation and processing centre and dig into the history of the plant. See how the beans
are grown and harvested, processed, dried, roasted and ground, and then sample firsthand what all the fuss is about. Try different types of coffee grains and get a lesson on preparing different types of coffees. Days 5-7 Medellin Colombia’s second-biggest city brims with modernist architecture, impressive museums and lush botanical gardens. Visit the Plaza Minorista Market and take the opportunity to buy some exotic local fruits like feijoa, araza, guanabana, maracuya and lulo – many of which are seldom found outside of Colombia. Enjoy breathtaking views of Medellin and its surrounds during a cable car ride up to San Javier. Days 8-9 Cartagena Wander about Colombia’s most romantic city, peeking inside its candy-coloured buildings in the inner walled town. Maybe end this adventure people-watching in the Plaza de la Trinidad.
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Medellin Coffee Estancia Salento
GGSS
C OLOMB IA Bogota
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (6 nts), coffee estancia (2 nts) 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Plane, private vehicle, local bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GGSS on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Cartagena, Colombia - Jaydene Chapman
Bogota, Colombia
Best of Colombia
Guachaca
Cartagena
Tayrona National Park
17 DAYS, BOGOTA TO BOGOTA From coffee to cacti to jungle-wrapped coast, this is the cream of the crop in up-and-coming Colombia. Discover it all on this in-depth combination trip. Embark on a spectacular guided hike through the Cocora Valley, home to hummingbirds and the world’s tallest palm trees. Boasting a quaint, beautiful coastline, typically balmy weather and two ecosystems, Tayrona National Park is a jungle paradise – keep an ear out for the howler monkeys! Day 1 Bogota Discover this charming town on a city tour. See the colonial churches, wander the streets and perhaps pop into a cafe. Day 2 Salento A dream to walk around, Salento boasts a welcoming, laidback atmosphere. Don’t miss the delicious local trout. Days 3-4 Coffee Estancia Travel into the Cocora Valley by jeep and see the wax palms looming above. Hike up to Acaime Nature Reserve and look out for the hummingbirds as they feed. Stay for two nights on a coffee-growing plantation and see how Colombia’s famous beans are harvested – enjoying a taste, of course. Days 5-7 Medellin Explore the museums and lush botanical gardens of Colombia’s second-largest city. Maybe grab some fresh fruit on a visit to the Plaza Minorista Market. Stroll around Santa Elena and see its beautiful flower arrangements. Days 8-9 Cartagena The old walled area of this romantic town is sure to
impress. Perhaps get a bird’s-eye view from the top of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, or experience the therapeutic effects of a mud bath. Days 10-11 Guachaca Region/Tayrona National Park Stay at a family-run hotel near the beach and take some time to chill out. Explore Tayrona National Park – where mountains, jungle and coastline collide spectacularly. Explore jungle trails and postcard-perfect beaches on foot. Days 12-14 Barichara Settle into this beautiful small village, then walk along the Camino Real to the village of Guane, passing valleys filled with cacti. Consider taking a trip out to San Gil, an excellent location for adventure sports. Days 15-17 Bogota What better way to finish than with a gondola ride up to Cerro de Monserrate, taking in beautiful views across town. Visiting the Museo Nacional is an excellent choice before your trip comes to an end.
Barichara Medellin Coffee Estancia Salento
GGSSC
COLOMB IA Bogota
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (14 nts), coffee estancia (2 nts) 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Plane, 4WD vehicle, private vehicle, local bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter GGSSC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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Short Break Adventures Haven’t quite got your fill of South America? We hear you. Delve a little deeper into the places that make this great continent so incredible with one of these extension trips to complement your adventure. See intrepidtravel.com/short-breaks for more information.
PERU
ECUADOR
Machu Picchu Explorer
Ecuador Amazon Wilderness
Iguazu Falls
3 DAYS | GGHT-O
4 DAYS | GGHL4
2 DAYS | GGHF-O/GGHF-C
Peru Amazon
Ecuador Amazon Jungle
Perito Moreno Glacier
4 days | GGHA-C
4 DAYS | GGHO-O
3 DAYS | GPHC-O
Inca Trail Extension 6 DAYS | GGHC-O
BOLIVIA
Inca Quarry Trail Extension
Bolivian Amazon Jungle
ARGENTINA
Buenos Aires Stopover 3 DAYS | GGHB-O
6 DAYS | GGHK-O
5 DAYS | GGAB-O
CHILE
Lake Titicaca
Bolivian Salt Flats
Santiago Stopover
2 DAYS | GGHW-B
3 DAYS | GGAU-O
3 DAYS | GGHU-O
BRAZIL
Bolivian Salt Flats & the Andean Desert
Easter Island
Rio de Janeiro Stopover
4 DAYS | GGHE-O
6 DAYS | GGAD-O
3 days | GGHM-O
Our Top Picks INCA TRAIL EXTENSION
SALT FLATS & DESERT
THE AMAZON JUNGLE
Travel along the historic Inca Trail and be
Action-packed and otherworldly, the Bolivian
Discover the secrets of the exotic Amazon. Take
rewarded with spectacular vistas. From Cusco,
Salt Flats & the Andean Desert trip offers a
guided walks to learn about the abundant plant
walk along lush pathways, through cloud forest,
double dose of surreal. Snap photos at the
and animal life that call this lush environment
over mountain passes and past ruins, ending in
world’s largest salt flats, then hit the volcanoes
the enigmatic Machu Picchu.
and lagoons of the Atacama Desert.
home and experience the thrill of sleeping in
60 Central & South America
secluded spots deep in the jungle.
Ecuador Amazon Jungle ECUADOR
PERU BRAZIL
Lima Machu Picchu
Peru Amazon Jungle Bolivia Amazon Jungle Lake Titicaca BOLIVIA
Salt Flats
Rio de Janeiro Iguazu Falls
Santiago
4 h 30 min flight from Santiago CHILE
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Hanga Roa EASTER ISLAND
Perito Moreno Glacier
RIO DE JANEIRO STOPOVER
IGUAZU FALLS
EASTER ISLAND
Get under the skin of this bustling metropolis.
Visit both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides
Journey to enigmatic Easter Island and be forever
Laze on Copacabana Beach, stand in the shadow
of Iguazu on this short tour that provides
changed by the remote beauty and fascinating
of the statue of Christ the Redeemer and enjoy
opportunities to see both panoramic views and
folklore. View remnants of the past at ancient
a local barbecue before checking out Rio’s other
an adrenaline-filled, close-up glimpse of these
ceremonial sites and villages, as well as rock art
iconic attraction – the nightlife.
spectacular falls.
depicting strange deities. Central & South America 61
AR GEN TIN A
Deception Island
Punta Arenas
Spectacular Antarctica is like nowhere else. Set foot on the plains, mountains and beaches of the White Continent and watch icebergs calve into the sea. Experience a polar plunge in Antarctic waters – one of the most invigorating dips you’re likely to ever take. offer some fascinating insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology and everything in between. Days 5-8 The Antarctic Peninsula Venture into the heart of the Antarctic waters, as the voyage travels through a region famed for its majestic mountains, glaciers, calm waters and abundance of wildlife. Expect the unexpected and be ready to disembark in order to meet the local penguins. Head out in a Zodiac to cruise among icebergs, or perhaps – if you’re feeling brave – go for a ‘polar plunge’ in the icy-cold waters of Neko Harbour. If conditions allow, you’ll also explore the Lemaire Channel, Deception Island and Paradise Bay. Days 9-10 Drake Passage Make the return journey through the Drake Passage, staying on the lookout for birdlife passing overhead. Day 11 Ushuaia Wind down this Antarctic expedition back on solid ground as the trip disembarks in the pretty port city of Ushuaia.
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South Shetland Islands
Ushuaia
C H ILE
11 DAYS, USHUAIA TO USHUAIA
Day 1 Ushuaia Enjoy an adventure to the bottom of the globe and arrive at the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia. Spend the night experiencing local life in this remote and fascinating location, affectionately known as ‘Fin del Mundo’ – or ‘World’s End’. Day 2 Embarkation Climb aboard your boat and set sail through the exquisite Beagle Channel. Stay on the lookout for penguins, cormorants, petrels and albatross as you glimpse your last sight of land and head south, passing incredible scenery. Days 3-4 Drake Passage As you push on through the Drake Passage, keep an eye out for some of Antarctica’s rare and intriguing wildlife. Where the mixing of polar and temperate waters occurs, nutrient-rich waters rise to the surface and attract a host of seabirds, whales, dolphins and marine life, so look out for a feeding spectacle. A comprehensive optional lecture program will also get under way, which will
Atlantic Ocean
Drake Passage
Anvers Island
Ant arc tic Cir cle
Discover Antarctica: 11 days from Ushuaia
Adelaide Island
GQMAD
” 39 3’ °3 6 6
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
A N TA R C TIC A
COMFORT
Maximum group size 199 Hotel (1 nts), cruise ship (9 nts) 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners Expedition cruise ship, Zodiac DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected dates Enter GQMAD on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
South Georgia Island, Antarctica
Exclusive Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falklands
Puerto Madryn
Falkland Islands
South Shetland AR GEN TIN A Islands
21 DAYS, USHUAIA TO PUERTO MADRYN Encounter rockhopper and Magellanic penguins on a once-in-a-lifetime kayaking expedition across the waters of the Falkland Islands. Be awed by the dramatically jagged peaks of the Drygalski Fjord on South Georgia Island before stopping to pay your respects at the gravesite of Sir Ernest Shackleton. Day 1 Ushuaia Begin your adventure in the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia. Day 2 Embarkation Set foot aboard your ship and commence the cruise through the waters of the beautiful Beagle Channel. This narrow passage cuts through the islands of Tierra del Fuego and is a haven for local wildlife like penguins, cormorants and albatross. Days 3-4 Drake Passage Settle into the relaxing nature of life at sea while sailing across the legendary Drake Passage. Join onboard experts for a series of lectures on all aspects of this unparalleled region. If weather permits, head out on deck to look for whales, dolphins and ship-trailing sea birds such as albatrosses, prions and petrels. Days 5-8 South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula Cross into the Antarctic Peninsula, where many potential adventures are available. Visit pebbled beaches and wait for curious penguins to approach. Surrounding mountains, glaciers
South Georgia Island Atlantic Ocean
and vast beautifully-sculptured icebergs will take your breath away. Days 9-10 At Sea Set sail for the open seas and retrace Shackleton’s path to South Georgia. Days 11-14 South Georgia Island Arrive at South Georgia and discover why this remote island is known as the ‘Galapagos of the South’. Days 15-16 At Sea Charter a course for the Falkland Islands, keeping eyes skyward for seabirds that follow in the ship’s wake. Days 17-18 Falkland Islands (Las Malvinas) Explore the spectacular landscapes of the Falkland Islands and stay on the lookout for some of the local birdlife. A walking tour of the capital, Stanley, reveals the city’s rich and colourful history. Days 19-20 At Sea Sail towards Puerto Madryn and reflect on the spectacular scenery and prolific wildlife you encountered during the voyage. Day 21 Puerto Madryn Return to dry land where the adventure comes to an end.
cle Cir ctic r a nt
AN TA R C TIC A
Ushuaia Drake Passage
GQSGF
A
Paradise Bay, Antarctica
Antarctic Peninsula
COMFORT
Maximum group size 199 Hotel (1 nt), cruise ship (19 nts) 19 breakfasts, 18 lunches, 19 dinners Expedition cruise ship, Zodiac DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected dates Enter GQSGF on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/antarctica 63
Central america It may be smaller than its neighbours, but Central America packs a serious punch from the Caribbean to the Pacific. The history, culture and beauty of the region is all-encompassing, from the tastes of Mexico to the contrasts of Cuba, from Guatemala’s ancient cities and volcanoes to Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity.
WEATHER Mexico City Belize City San Jose Panama City Havana Playa del Carmen Antigua Kingston
Monsoon 25-35ºC Hot & dry 25-35ºC Hot & wet 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Warm & wet 20-25ºC Cool 15-20ºC
Havana
QUR A Playa Larga Playa del Carmen Bay of Pigs
Merida
MEXICO
Mexico City
Caye Caulker
San Juan Chamula
QVRM
Oaxaca
QVR A
San Cristobal de las Casas
Tikal NP
BELIZE
GUATEMALA
Chichicastenango San Jorge La Laguna Panajachel
CUBA
Tulum
Palenque
Puebla
Trinidad
Vinales
Chichen Itza
HONDURAS
Antigua EL SALVADOR
San Ignacio Rio Dulce Copan Suchitoto QVR J
El Cuco
NICARAGUA
Granada Ometepe Island Leon La Fortuna Monteverde San Jose
Bocas del Toro Panama City
QVRC PANAMA
COSTA RICA
BASIX Combo Trips
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Boquete
Santa Catalina
TURN THESE TRIPS… QV R M
QV R A
Mexico Unplugged 15 days, see page 80
QVR J
Maya Encounter 17 days, see page 81
QVRC
Central American Journey 17 days, see page 87
Costa Rica & Panama Discovery 13 days, see page 96
QUR A
Cuba on a Shoestring 8 days, see page 74
…INTO A COMBO TRIP QVRM + QVR A = QVRYC
Central America Encompassed 31 days. Enter QVRYC on our website
QVRM + QVR A + QVR J = QVR ZC
Central America Explorer 47 days. Enter QVRZC on our website
QVRM + QVR A + QVR J + QVRC = QVRRC
Ultimate Central America 59 days. Enter QVRRC on our website
QVRM + QU R A = QVBAC
Discover Mexico & Cuba* 22 days. See page 79
QVR A + QVR J = QVR XC
Central American Adventure 33 days. See page 92
QVR A + QVR J + QVRC = QVRQC QVR J + QVRC = QVRPC
Best of Central America 45 days. Enter QVRQC on our website Amazing Central America 29 days. See page 98 *Connecting flights between trips not included BASIX Combo Trips 65
QUSH
Cayo Jutias Havana QUSL
Playa del Carmen
Vinales Las Terrazas
Palenque San Cristobal de las Casas San Juan Chamula
Caye Caulker
QVSB
San Ignacio
BELIZE
GUATEMALA
Panajachel
Santiago de Cuba
Camaguey
Tikal Flores
CUBA
Trinidad
Cienfuegos
Tulum
QVSJ
MEXICO
Baracoa
Bay of Pigs
Merida Chichen Itza
QUSHR
Santa Clara
Soroa
Rio Dulce Livingston
San Jose
Antigua
COSTA RICA
Lake Atitlan Tortuguero NP Santa Rosa de Pocosol La Fortuna COSTA RICA
Monteverde
Panama City
QBSP
QVXA
Limon
Los Quetzales NP
San Gerardo de Dota Boquete
Corcovado
PANAMA
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
QVSS
Pacuare River San Gerardo de Dota Manuel Antonio Savegre River Trek Quepos QVXB Uvita Corcovado NP Drake Bay San Jose
ORIGINAL Combo Trips
TURN THESE TRIPS…
QVS B
QVS J
QVXA
Guatemala to Mexico 13 days, see page 83 Mexico & Guatemala Highlights 11 days, see page 82 Costa Rica: Raft, Surf & Kayak 8 days, see page 94
QVXB
QVSS
Q B SP
Costa Rica: Hike, Raft & Canyon 11 days, see page 94
Costa Rica Experience 9 days, see page 91
Costa Rica to Panama 8 days, see page 97
QUSH
QUSHR
QUSL
Best of Cuba 15 days, see page 68
Best of Cuba Westbound 15 days, enter QUSHR on our website
Western Cuba 7 days, see page 70
…INTO A COMBO TRIP QVS B + QVSJ
= QVSKC
Maya Adventure 23 days. Enter QVSKC on our website
QVXA + QVXB = QV X AC
Costa Rica: Raft, Surf, Kayak & Hike 18 days. Enter QVXAC on our website
QUSH + QUSL = QUSZC
Grand Cuba 21 days. See page 71.
QUSHR + QUSL = QUSRC
Grand Cuba Westbound 21 days. Enter QUSRC on our website
QVS S + QBSP = QBSPC
Costa Rica & Panama Experience 16 days. Enter QBSPC on our website
66 ORIGINAL Combo Trips
Soroa Vinales
Merida
Mexico City Teotihuacan
Havana
QUK A
Santa Clara Trinidad
Bay of Pigs
Izamal Playa del Carmen
Cienfuegos
CUBA
Chichen Itza
QVKD
MEXICO
Palenque Flores
Oaxaca Mitla Ruins San Juan Chamula
Tikal Q BKG
San Cristobal de las Casas
Livingston
Panajachel Lake Atitlan Antigua
Rio Dulce
GUATEMALA
San Jose
COSTA RICA
Los Quetzales NP Savegre
QBK R
Manuel Antonio
COMFORT Combo Trips
Corcovado
TURN THESE TRIPS…
Q UK A
QVK D
Beautiful Cuba 8 days, see page 69
QBKG
Best of Mexico 15 days, see page 76
QBKR
Guatemala Experience 9 days, see page 84
Best of Costa Rica 9 days, see page 93
…INTO A COMBO TRIP QVKD + Q UK A = QVKGC
Best of Mexico & Cuba* 22 days. See page 75
QVKD + Q B KG = QBK MC
Best of Mexico & Guatemala* 23 days. Enter QBKMC on our website
QUK A + Q B K R = QBKCC
Cuba & Costa Rica* 16 days. Enter QBKCC on our website *Connecting flights between trips not included COMFORT Combo Trips 67
Best of Cuba Westbound Best of Cuba is a hit with Intrepid travellers, so we also offer this itinerary in a westbound direction. It’s the same classic Cuba adventure, though history buffs may favour it slightly over the eastbound option as it’s better aligned with the cross-country movements of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara. For more info enter QUSHR on intrepidtravel.com Havana, Cuba
Best of Cuba
Havana
15 DAYS, HAVANA TO HAVANA Old-world charm, rich history, exciting nightlife – evocative Havana is like nowhere else on the planet.
Bay of Pigs Cienfuegos
Trinidad
C UB A Camaguey
Spend two days exploring Trinidad, lolling about on an unspoilt Caribbean beach or pedalling your way through sugar plantations. Cuba is famed for its world-class cigars – seek out the local producers (torcedores) to get a firsthand look. Days 1-2 Havana Set to the soundtrack and backdrop of the 1950s, tumbledown Havana is a capital unlike any other. Get your bearings on an introductory walking tour and Spanish class. Day 3 Bay of Pigs/Cienfuegos See where CIA troops landed at the Bay of Pigs on the drive to Cienfuegos – a city known locally as the Pearl of the South – and visit the Palacio de Valle. Days 4-6 Santa Clara/Trinidad Stop in at the Che Guevara Mausoleum in Santa Clara before arriving in delightful Trinidad. Home to many Spanish-style churches and fascinating museums, Trinidad is also the gateway to the Valle de los Ingenios. Sugar cane plantations sprawl across the landscape and Playa Ancon is close by – there’ll be plenty of opportunity for relaxing on its long, unspoilt beaches. Get tips on how to sway and step during an included salsa lesson. Days 7-8 Camaguey There is a lot of fun to be had simply getting lost among the winding
Baracoa
Santa Clara
cobblestone streets of Camaguey – and get lost you will. Make a visit to see the baroque frescoes of the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad. Decode the confusing streets of Camaguey on a bicycle taxi tour. Days 9-10 Santiago de Cuba Fast-paced Santiago de Cuba played a pivotal role in the Cuban revolution – it was from here that Castro declared its success – but the city is also known for its musical legacy. After visiting El Morro Castle, Ifigenia Cemetery and the Moncada barracks, dance the night away to Latin rhythms. Days 11-13 Baracoa Travel to beautiful Baracoa. Climb over the old forts – built to withstand pirate raids – or explore the region’s mountains and black sand beaches. In town, seek out the torcedores (cigar makers) to witness cigar rolling in action. Days 14-15 Havana Back in the Cuban capital, visit Revolution Square before toasting the end of this Cuban adventure with a farewell Cuba libre.
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Santiago de Cuba
QUSH/QUSHR
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Standard guesthouse (14 nts) 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch Plane, private vehicle, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays & Thursdays Enter QUSH or QUSHR on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Havana, Cuba
Vinales, Cuba
Beautiful Cuba 8 DAYS, HAVANA TO HAVANA
Santa Clara
Havana
Take in all the colours and aromas of Soroa, the stunning valley area known as the ’rainbow of Cuba’.
C U BA
Soroa Vinales
Bay of Pigs Cienfuegos
Trinidad
Discover the man behind the legend with a stop at the Che Guevara Museum and Mausoleum in Santa Clara. Stroll along the rural dirt roads of Vinales as tractors, vintage cars and horse-drawn carriages pass you by. Day 1 Havana Welcome to the sultry capital of Cuba. The best way to see Havana’s colonial buildings, elegant plazas, vintage cars and cigar-smoking musicians is by foot. The striking baroque facade of the Catedral de San Cristobal de la Habana is a must-see. Days 2-3 Soroa/ Vinales Enjoy a walking tour of Old Havana, a perfect first taste of the city. Your local guide will show you the cathedral, Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja and Central Park. Explore the Cuban orchid gardens of Soroa en route to Vinales, one of Cuba’s most attractive areas, and take a tour of the fertile valleys and tobacco crops before a feature meal at a local eco-farm. Day 4 Bay of Pigs/ Cienfuegos Stop for a swim in the Bay of Pigs. Journey to the port city Cubans call La Perla del Sur (The Pearl of the South) and visit the Palacio del Valle, the architectural pride of Cienfuegos. For a local pick-me-up why not try a Cuban coffee. It’s served strong, black and super
sweet. Days 5-6 Trinidad Get into the groove with an introductory group salsa lesson, then take time to explore Trinidad’s Spanish-style churches before relaxing at Playa Ancon, a white, sandy beach a little out of town. Alternatively, why not snorkel over Cuba’s colourful underwater world or hire a bike for a relaxing pedal around town. Perhaps enjoy an Afro-Cuban folklore dance and music show then practise newly learned salsa moves at one of Trinidad’s famous music venues. Days 7-8 Santa Clara/Havana Stop in at Santa Clara to visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum and learn about the life of the country’s revered and famous revolutionary. Back in Havana, see Revolution Square. Celebrate the end of this Cuban adventure with an exciting final night out. Hop from one trendy bar to the next, put your best salsa moves to the test and farewell your group with Latin flavour.
QUKA
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Premium guesthouse (5 nts), standard guesthouse (2 nts) 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays Enter QUKA on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/cuba 69
afro-cuban religion tour Learn about the local customs, folklore and beliefs of Afro-Cuban religions from an insider on this Havana day tour. There are similarities to voodoo so expect a colourful and unconventional religious lesson. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Vinales, Cuba
Western Cuba 7 DAYS, HAVANA TO HAVANA
Havana
Life in Cuba’s countryside evokes a bygone time. Stroll along rural dirt roads and watch as tractors, vintage cars and horse-drawn carriages roll by.
Cayo Jutias Vinales
Soroa
C U BA
Las Terrazas
Fading colonial charm, rich history, sultry nightlife – it’s easy to see why Ernest Hemingway spent so much time in dreamy Havana. Explore an orchid garden, learn the medicinal secrets of wild Cuban herbs, then venture to a gorgeous nearby eco-village en route to Vinales. Day 1 Havana Arrive in Havana, a beautiful mix of colour, sound, history and modern cuture. Watch as American automobiles from the 1950s sit side-by-side with new imports. Day 2 Soroa Take a walk around Havana’s Old City and enjoy the colonial architecture, museums, countless churches and 16th-century fortresses. Check out the Havana neighbourhood of Callejon de Hamel in the Cayo Hueso quarter. Travel on to the gorgeous ecological community of Las Terrazas before arriving at the small mountain town of Soroa, nestled in the forested mountain range of Sierra del Rosario. Days 3-4 Vinales Visit Soroa’s orchid garden, which boasts more than 700 species, and, if feeling energetic, walk up to a nearby waterfall. Later, visit a Finca de Plantas Medicinales (herb farm) to see how wild herbs are grown, dried and crushed for processing into medicines. Continue
past amazing scenery before arriving in the rural village of Vinales. Enjoy a guided walk through the village, pay a visit to a local farm to learn about life in Vinales and in the afternoon learn how to dance up a storm at an informal salsa lesson. Day 5 Cayo Jutias/ Vinales Enjoy a lazy day at a secluded beach on the northern tip of Cayo Jutias. Choose to spend the day paddling about in the water or soaking up the sun on the sandy shore – it’s a tough job, but someone has to do it. If struggling to chill, a mojito might just do the trick. Days 6-7 Havana Venture back to Havana for an afternoon of exploring through the outerwestern Jaimanitas neighbourhood also known as Fusterlandia. As evening falls, celebrate the end of your trip by sampling the many bars, cabarets and salsa clubs the city has to offer, where you can put your newfound dancing skills to good use.
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QUSL
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Standard guesthouse (6 nts) 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch Private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays & Thursdays Enter QUSL on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Havana, Cuba
Pinar Del Rio, Cuba
Grand Cuba
Cayo Jutias Havana
21 DAYS, HAVANA TO HAVANA
The tobacco harvested in Pinar del Rio province is used to produce some of the most prestigious and expensive cigars in the world. Pack some dancing shoes and learn to salsa during an informal lesson before hitting the dance floor with the locals in sultry Trinidad. Days 1-2 Havana Havana’s history is as colourful as its cars and buildings – take a walking tour to explore one of the great colonial cities of the Americas. Later, pick up some Spanish in an informal lesson. Day 3 Cienfuegos Head southeast to the Bay of Pigs, infamous for the failed American-backed invasion of 1961. Dive into sapphire water teeming with tropical marine life for some swimming. Learn more about Che Guevara in Santa Clara, then continue to Cienfuegos, known locally as the ’Pearl of the South’, before heading to Palacio del Valle to soak up the town’s laidback European air. Days 4-6 Trinidad Discover Spanish-style churches and idyllic beaches in Trinidad. Take a relaxed salsa lesson before kicking up your heels at one of the town bars. Days 7-8 Camaguey Enjoy losing yourself in Camaguey’s labyrinth of cobblestone streets on a bicitaxi tour, visiting the town’s the markets, parks,
plazas and galleries. Days 9-10 Santiago de Cuba Explore the timeworn architecture and vibrant live music scene of Cuba’s second-biggest city. Take a city tour with your leader and learn about its history: the people of Santiago were the first to rise up against the government, and this is where Fidel Castro declared the triumph of Revolution Days 11-13 Baracoa Admire the old forts of Baracoa, which used to deter the many pirates that raided the city. Days 14-15 Havana Return to Cuba’s spirited capital. Day 16 Soroa Arrive in the small mountain town of Soroa. This region is a delight to explore – walk through Las Terrazas to visit artisan studios and chat to local artists. Days 17-19 Cayo Jutias/Vinales Explore the stunning surrounding scenery of Vinales on a valley walking tour, then visit Cayo Jutias and its ‘undiscovered’ beach. Days 20-21 Havana Enjoy a final night in heady, vivacious Havana.
Vinales
CUBA
Bay of Pigs
Las Terrazas
Baracoa
Santa Clara
Soroa
Pay your respects to the world’s most famous revolutionary during an included visit to Che Guevara’s Mausoleum and Museum.
Trinidad Camaguey Cienfuegos Santiago de Cuba
QUSZC/QUSRC
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Standard guesthouse (20 nts) 21 breakfasts, 2 lunches Plane, private vehicle, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Havana, Cuba
Cycle Cuba Havana
7 DAYS, HAVANA TO HAVANA Ride through a surprising variety of scenery; from the decaying charm of Old Havana to long, dusty farming roads to dramatic limestone landscapes. Cycle through the lush valley of Soroa en route to Las Terrazas. Known as Cuba’s Rainbow, the valley is rich in flora and wildlife. Cuba is recognised as the world’s finest cigar manufacturer. Learn how to roll a cigar with a local tobacco farmer in the small town of Vinales. Day 1 Havana Enjoy a stroll around the city at your own pace, taking in the soft colours of the Art Deco buildings, the crumbling neoclassical mansions and busking musicians. Perhaps line up for a scoop of the famous Copellia ice cream. Day 2 Soroa Get fitted to your bike, then head out for an easy day’s cycling. Share the road with vintage American cars, old Ladas and horse-drawn carriages on the way to colourful Soroa, also known as the rainbow of Cuba. Day 3 Soroa Cycle to the cascading waterfalls of the San Juan River and take a refreshing swim in the same waters that irrigate local coffee plantations. Continue to the renowned eco-village of Las Terrazas, a lively art community set in beautiful green surrounds. Day 4 Vinales Tackle the hilly roads to Vinales and ride to a tobacco farm in the afternoon, where a local farmer will show how tobacco is grown, dried and
rolled into cigars. At sunset, visit a hillside organic farm for dinner. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Day 5 Vinales With its surreal white beaches and pale blue waters, Cayo Jutias is one of those Caribbean beaches you only dream about. After cycling there, stretch out on the sands and enjoy a packed lunch away from the usual tourist crowds, with plenty of time to do some swimming in the warm waters. Maybe take a siesta or splash about, then catch a private minivan back to Vinales. Days 6-7 Havana Take a final spin from Vinales to Consolacion del Sur, stopping en route to admire the colourful Mural de la Prehistoria. Painted on a cliff at the foot of the Sierra de Vinales, the huge, eye-catching mural took 18 people four years to finish! The adventure comes to an end back in the capital, so farewell your group and perhaps enjoy one final hearty meal together.
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Cayo Jutias
Soroa
Vinales
QBXC
Las Terrazas
CUBA
Consolacion del Sur
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Guesthouse (6 nts) 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner Bicycle, support vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Mondays Enter QBXC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Havana, Cuba
Camaguey, Cuba
Cuba Explorer Havana
10 DAYS, HAVANA TO HAVANA Take inspiration from the locals and mix things up with a bicycle-taxi tour of the colonial city of Camaguey.
Santa Clara
CUBA Trinidad
Camaguey Santiago de Cuba
Free time in Trinidad gives you plenty of opportunity to work on your Spanish at a language class, sunbathe at a quiet beach or pedal through the countryside by bike. Revel in the faded glory of Havana, where vintage cars cruise the streets and history continues to unfold. Days 1-2 Havana Hola and welcome to Cuba! Arrive in Havana, one of the most spirited and rhythmic cities in the Americas. Kick things off with an introductory walking tour of Old Havana, visiting the cathedral, Plaza de Armas, San Francisco de Asis, Plaza Vieja and Central Park. Day 3 Camaguey Make tracks for the mausoleum of the legendary Che Guevara in Santa Clara. Glimpse the former Cuban leader’s black beret and learn the fascinating story behind his remains, which were brought to rest here after showing up in a remote corner of Bolivia in 1997. Level up linguistically with a Spanish lesson during the long bus ride heading east. Days 4-5 Santiago de Cuba Welcome to Santiago de Cuba, the loud and proud music capital of the Caribbean. Visit El Morro Castle, Ifigenia Cemetery and the Moncada Barracks on a half-day city tour, then partake in a salsa class after a bit of free exploration.
When night falls, get carried away by the local music scene. In free time, explore the museums or pop in at Barrita de Ron Havana Club for a taste of heady local rum. Day 6 Camaguey Get lost in Camaguey’s labyrinth of cobblestone streets or perhaps visit one of Cuba’s most esteemed dance companies. Days 7-8 Trinidad Experience the slower side of island living on a guided walk with your leader. With free time, read up on colourful post-revolution tales in the local museums, hit Playa Ancon for some swimming and snorkelling, venture into the surrounding countryside on a horse or vintage bicycle, or discover the excellent walking trails in the nearby Sierra del Escambray mountains. Days 9-10 Havana Return to Havana. Perhaps drop in for some Copellia ice cream and celebrate the end of this adventure by dancing up a storm at a city salsa club.
QUSN
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Standard guesthouse (9 nts) 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Havana, Cuba
Negril, Jamaica
Cuba on a Shoestring 8 DAYS, HAVANA TO HAVANA
Santa Clara
Havana
Be swept away by the eclectic history of Cuba’s capital as you join your knowledgeable leader on a half-day tour of Old Havana.
Vinales
C U BA
Playa Larga
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter QURA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Trinidad
Bay of Pigs
In Vinales, spend your time sipping rum in quaint bars with locals and exploring hidden caves in the mountains. Day 1 Havana Wander through Havana’s Old City and enjoy the colonial architecture, museums and countless churches. Days 2-3 Vinales Head out on a walking tour of Old Havana before spending a bit of free time in Vinales, a rural village that’s a perfect spot for sipping rum and mingling with local folk. Brush up on your Spanish during an informal lesson. Day 4 Bay of Pigs/Playa Larga Enjoy a swim in the Bay of Pigs then take a quick walk through Cienfuegos’ wide boulevards and captivating colonnades. Days 5-6 Trinidad Explore Trinidad on an orientation tour of town. With your free time, visit local museums, hit the beach at Playa Ancon or discover walking trails in the nearby Sierra del Escambray mountains. Days 7-8 Havana Head back to Havana, paying a visit to Che’s Mausoleum and Museum in Santa Clara, which houses Che’s remains along with a number of other guerrilla fighters. Enjoy your final night in Havana by practicing your salsa on the dance floor.
Cienfuegos
QURA
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Standard guesthouse (7 nts) 7 breakfasts Private vehicle
Best of Jamaica 8 DAYS, MONTEGO BAY TO MONTEGO BAY Practically untouched until the 1960s, the spectacular beaches and laidback vibe of Negril have yet to be affected by development.
Luminous Lagoon
Dunn’s River Falls
Montego Bay Negril
JAMAIC A
Kingston Spanish Town
Enjoy a home-cooked meal at a private home with locals to get a taste of daily life in Jamaica. Day 1 Montego Bay Welcome to Jamaica! Day 2 Montego Bay After a lesson on speaking proper Jamaican patois, arrive at an indigenous Rastafari village and learn the basic tenets of the Rastafarian philosophy and lifestyle. Later, visit Montego Bay hotspots the Hip Strip, Charles Garden Market, Dome Street and Sam Sharpe Square and enjoy dinner in a local’s home, where you’ll sit down to a traditional meal. Day 3 Kingston Stop at the many-tiered Dunn’s River Falls for a dip. Arrive in Kingston and relax for the evening. Day 4 Kingston Visit Spanish Town, containing the Caribbean’s most extensive, albeit decayed, assortment of Georgian architecture. Learn about one of music’s biggest legends at the Bob Marley Museum. Days 5-6 Negril Travel to the aquamarine waters and swaying palms of Negril and enjoy paradise as you see fit. Days 7-8 Montego Bay Return to Montego Bay for free time and an included visit to the Luminous Lagoon. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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QJSA
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts) 7 breakfasts, 1 dinner Private vehicle, public bus, taxi
Teotihuacan, Mexico
San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico
Best of Mexico & Cuba 22 DAYS, MEXICO CITY TO HAVANA
Get acquainted with two of the world’s most intoxicating and unique cities: Havana and Mexico City. Get a taste of local life as you soak up the unique landscapes of the Vinales Valley, where tobacco and agricultural fields sprawl under towering limestone outcrops. Days 1-2 Mexico City Dive into Mexico’s vibrant capital. and take a guided tour of the city. Days 3-5 Oaxaca Discover the amazing Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon on a visit to Teotihuacan, then arrive in Oaxaca and get to know the city. Bargain with the Zapotec and Mixtec Indians at the markets, and take a full-day tour to the area’s best sights like Hierve el Agua and the Mitla ruins, including lunch at a Zapoteca home. Days 6-8 San Cristobal de las Casas In the morning, fly from Oaxaca to Tuxtla Gutierrez and continue by private vehicle to San Cristobal de las Casas, a charismatic city where old world charm sits around every corner. Day 9 Palenque Stop at the Agua Azul waterfall en route to the jungle. Days 10-11 Merida Visit the Maya ruins of Palenque, which date back to the 7th century, then continue to Merida and its well-preserved Old Town. Day 12 Izamal Take a guided tour of the city
including the Convento de San Antonio de Padua, a Spanish monastery built on the site of a destroyed Maya temple in 1561. Days 13-14 Playa del Carmen Explore Chichen Itza, arguably the most famous Maya site in Mexico, before relaxing on Playa del Carmen’s idyllic beaches. Day 15 Havana Explore a capital city unlike any other. Days 16-17 Vinales Tour the Cuban orchid gardens of Soroa en route to Vinales, then explore its verdant valley by foot. Day 18 Cienfuegos Stop for a dip in the Bay of Pigs, then journey to the port city Cubans call La Perla del Sur (The Pearl of the South). Stop by the Palacio del Valle, the architectural pride of Cienfuegos. Days 19-20 Trinidad Swim at Playa Ancon or hang out at one of Trinidad’s many bopping music venues. Days 2122 Havana Stop at Santa Clara to see the mausoleum of Che Guevara. Back in Havana, visit the historic Revolution Square before the trip comes to an end.
Havana Cienfuegos Soroa
MEX IC O
Dive into the rich history of Mexico on a walk down the ’Avenue of the Dead’ in Teotihuacan, and explore the ruins of Palenque and Chichen Itza.
CUBA
Flight Not Included
Mexico City Teotihuacan
Izamal Merida
Bay of Pigs Trinidad Playa del Santa Clara Carmen Chichen Itza Vinales
Palenque Oaxaca San Cristobal Mitla Ruins San Juan de las Casas Chamula
QVKGC
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (14 nts), premium guesthouse (5 nts), standard guesthouse (2 nts) 21 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Plane, private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Chichen Itza, Mexico
Mexico City, Mexico
Best of Mexico 15 DAYS, MEXICO CITY TO PLAYA DEL CARMEN Get up close and personal with the country’s diverse heritage, from the magnificent Aztec temples of Teotihuacan to the brightly dressed Maya folk of San Cristobal. Visit the incredible Maya site of Chichen Itza then stretch out on the white sands of Playa del Carmen. Eat your way across the country and compare Mexico City’s heady street food scene with the subtler fare found in Oaxaca. Days 1-2 Mexico City Meet your group and leader then dive into Mexico’s vibrant capital and incredible food scene with a walking tour of its lively, historic centre. Days 3-5 Oaxaca Discover the ancient Teotihuacan ruins then explore the colourful markets, exciting architecture and flavoursome cuisine of Oaxaca. Bargain in the markets with the Zapotec and Mixtec peoples and enjoy a full-day tour of the area. Take in sights like the Mitla ruins, Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree, then sip on the famous, tequila-like local booze, mezcal, at a mezcal factory. Days 6-8 San Cristobal de las Casas Take a flight to Tuxtla Gutierrez and continue by private vehicle to San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming old-world city. Explore cobbled streets dotted with local shop fronts, which are run by friendly indigenous locals. Be introduced to this colonial city on a village walking tour, passing impressive cathedrals, green plazas
and countless museums. Take a tour around the Maya highland villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. During your free time, perhaps rent a bike to explore the town further or venture to the gigantic Sumidero Canyon to get an dose of nature. Day 9 Palenque Make a splash at the Agua Azul waterfall on the way to Palenque and the jungle. Days 10-11 Merida Visit the astounding Palenque Maya ruins dating back as far as AD600 then continue to Merida. Enjoy a free day to explore the many sights of Merida, the capital of the Yucatan region. Day 12 Izamal Arrive at this important pre-Columbian city. The leader-led walking tour includes a visit to the Spanish monastery. Days 13-15 Playa del Carmen Visit Chichen Itza, the most famous Maya site in Mexico, for a guided tour of the ruins then continue to Playa del Carmen for a couple of days at this beachside hotspot. Your adventure ends after breakfast on the final day.
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Izamal Merida
Playa del Carmen
Mexico City Teotihuacan
MEX IC O Oaxaca Mitla Ruins
QVKD
Chichen Itza
Palenque
San Cristobal San Juan de las Casas Chamula
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (14 nts) 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Plane, private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter QVKD on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Mexico City, Mexico
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen to Mexico City 9 DAYS, PLAYA DEL CARMEN TO MEXICO CITY Relax with a cocktail on one of Playa del Carmen’s beaches, where sand like powdered sugar meets glittering azure water. Wonder at the grand ancient ruins of Teotihuacan, a vast complex full of crumbling temples and pyramids. Discover the culinary paradise of Oaxaca, where you can feast on warm, thick mole (a rich sauce often served over rice). Days 1-2 Playa del Carmen Welcome to paradise! The bars, beaches and warm waters of this coastal playground are yours for the taking. The spectacular ruins of Chichen Itza are just a few hours away too, so why not take an optional trip to ruins of this grand Maya city. Days 3-4 San Cristobal de las Casas It’s hard not to be joyful in this bright colonial town – from the warm yellow hue of the town’s eponymous cathedral to the bright blue of the sky on clear days. Take part in an informal Spanish lesson and visit the nearby Maya village San Juan Chamula, where unique cultural customs prevail over the conventions of nonindigenous Mexico. While you’re here why not sample some pox – a smoky spirit used in Maya rituals that’s only available in this part of the world. Enlightenment not guaranteed! Days 5-6 Oaxaca Oaxaca is famous for many unique regional dishes, and you should feel
free to let your nose lead the way. Tamales de rajas (chilli and tomato tamales) are a good place to start, a delicious hand-held meal that’s been a staple in the area for thousands of years. From here you can choose to take a trip to the ruins of Mitla, an archaeological site that was first inhabited by the Zapotecs and subsequently the Mixtecs before the Spanish arrived. Days 7-9 Mexico City Check out pretty Puebla City and the sprawling ruins of Teotihuacan, including the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, on the way to Mexico City. Spend a few days enjoying the bustling heart of the country and take a walking tour around the historic city centre visiting famous attractions like Zocalo Square and the dome-topped Palacio de Bellas Artes. You’ll also have time to wander off the beaten track, so why not try to find the best fonda (family restaurant) or treat yourself to a serenade from a mariachi band before leaving.
MEX IC O Playa del Carmen Mexico City Teotihuacan Puebla San Juan Chamula Oaxaca
QBSM
San Cristobal de las Casas
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts) 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch Plane, private vehicle, local bus, public bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Beyond Mexico City Get out of the city for the day, to explore the mighty Teotihuacan pyramids and the nearby town. Try local delights like cactus candy, sip on ancient pre-Hispanic brews and enjoy an organic, local farm-sourced dinner with a family in their own home. For more info head to urbanadventures.com
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico Real Food Adventure 9 DAYS, MEXICO CITY TO MAZUNTE
Mexico City
ME X IC O
Puebla
Taste your way around the streets of Puebla, eating cemitas, tacos arabes and camotes, then fill up on a theatrical Lucha Libre wrestling performance.
Oaxaca
Enter the heart of pre-Hispanic cuisine in Oaxaca; taste chillies, chocolate, mezcal and the surprisingly delicious chapulines (grasshoppers). A boating expedition out on the Pacific Ocean will have you eating fresh ceviche while overlooking one of the best beaches on Mexico’s southwest coast. Days 1-2 Mexico City Dive into Mexico City’s celebrated food scene on a taco crawl. Eat delectable tacos al pastor (slow-roasted, marinated pork tacos) and sip mezcal in one of the city’s sensational bars. Head to one of Mexico’s biggest food markets and be awed by the produce on display. Keep your eyes peeled for local fruits such as pitaya and opuntia, and freshly pressed tortillas. Day 3 Puebla Catch a colourful local bus to Puebla, Mexico’s epicurean capital. The city is renowned for dishes which combine Spanish and pre-Hispanic influences. Venture out on a culinary city tour – start with some Pueblan street food before making a beeline for Calle de los Dulces (Sweet Street) to sample tortitas de Santa Clara (shortbread biscuits) and camotes (sweet potato lollies). Afterwards, take in the spectacle of a theatrical Lucha Libre wrestling match. Days 4-6 Oaxaca Travel
to Oaxaca, the ‘land of the seven moles’. Visit the fabulous Abastos Market and enjoy some regional specialities including grasshoppers, cactus fruit, local cheese and chocolate. Whip up some Oaxacan treats in a cooking class. Savour barbacoa (a traditional Mexican form of barbecue) at the ancient Mercado Tlacolula, one of the oldest markets in Mesoamerica, then explore the impressive ruins at Mitla. Sip smoky mezcal, an oven-cooked agave based alcohol similar to tequila, on a visit to a local mezcaleria (distillery). Days 7-9 Mazunte Take a bus to the idyllic coastal village of Mazunte, stopping for lunch en route. Head out on a boating expedition, then learn how to make Mexican-style ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juice). Enjoy some chill-out time on the beach. Perhaps tuck into a final seaside breakfast before this real food adventure comes to an end.
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Mazunte
QVZA
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (6 nts), guesthouse (2 nts) 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Private vehicle, boat, local bus, metro, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter QVZA on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
G u l f o
Trinidad, Cuba
f
Mexico City: Day of the Dead Original
MEXICO
5 DAYS, MEXICO CITY Dress up and become the life of the party in Mexico City’s streets. No bones about it, this is one of the world’s most vibrant celebrations.
Mexico City
Lend a hand with the ceremonial decorating of tombs and altars, then join in the festivities in a cemetery in Mixquic. Day 1 Mexico City Welcome to Mexico City, a buzzing capital with museums, awesome eateries and elegant architecture. Day 2 Mexico City Take a tour of the city’s historic centre with your leader. Enjoy a free evening. Day 3 Mexico City Visit the Anahuacalli Museum before a guided tour of the leafy Coyoacan suburb, including a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum. Day 4 Mexico City See a spectacular display of Day of the Dead altars. Perhaps journey to Xochimilco for a wander around the eerie Isla de la Munecas, or join in on one of the lively Day of the Dead street parties taking place back in the city. Enjoy a guided tour of Tepoztlan, an ancient Aztec city of indigenous significance. Witness, and perhaps join in with, some of the traditional activities that go in to preparing for the Day of the Dead ceremony. Stop in at the town of Mixquic, where colourful celebrations take place as local families decorate the tombs of deceased family members. Day 5 Mexico City Your unique Mexican adventure ends this morning.
30 October 2019 Enter QVSO on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (4 nts)
Local bus, private vehicle, metro
Discover Mexico & Cuba 22 DAYS, MEXICO CITY TO HAVANA You’ve never seen colour until you’ve been to a Mexican market. Practice your haggling, snap some photos and pick up traditional handicrafts in multiple destinations. See why Trinidad is a favourite for many Intrepid adventurers. Wander the cobblestone streets alongside cowboys and farmers and clock the best-preserved colonial buildings. Days 1-2 Mexico City Enjoy the food and sights of Mexico’s intoxicating capital. Days 3-4 Puebla Explore this rapidly growing city that’s maintained its colonial heritage. Days 5-7 Oaxaca/Overnight Bus A culinary and cultural paradise, arty Oaxaca is a foodie’s dream. Days 8-9 San Cristobal de las Casas Get active in this colonial town with spectacular natural surrounds. Day 10 Palenque Stop for a swim at Agua Azul waterfall. Days 11-13 Merida The temples of Palenque are a superb relic of Maya culture. Visit the ruins, then hit Merida to eat and dance your way through Yucatan’s capital. Day 14 Chichen Itza/Playa del Carmen See Chichen Itza en route to this coastal paradise. Day 15 Havana Arrive in Cuba’s timeless capital. Days 16-17 Vinales Travel to Vinales for a taste of rural Cuba. Day 18 Bay of Pigs/Playa Larga Head to Playa Larga via the historic Bay of Pigs. Days 19-20 Trinidad Take free time in this quintessential Cuban city. Days 21-22 Havana Return to Havana via the Che Guevara Memorial in Santa Clara.
Selected Tuesdays & Saturdays Enter QVBAC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
ORIGINAL
4 breakfasts
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
QVSO
Flight not included Santa Clara Trinidad Havana
ME X IC O Mexico City
Chichen Itza
Merida
Puebla Palenque Oaxaca San Cristobal San Juan de las Casas
Vinales
CUBA
Cienfuegos Bay of Pigs Playa Larga Playa del Carmen
Chamula
QVBAC
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (13 nts), standard guesthouse (7 nts), overnight public bus (1 nt) 7 breakfasts Public bus, overnight public bus, private vehicle, taxi
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San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico
Mexico Unplugged
Playa del Carmen
ME X IC O
Merida
15 DAYS, MEXICO CITY TO PLAYA DEL CARMEN You’ve never seen true colour until you’ve been to a Mexican market. Practice your bargaining skills and pick up traditional handicrafts at the markets. Escape the heat in San Cristobal de las Casas. This old-world town is surrounded by ancient tribal villages that have retained their traditional customs and roots. Away from the thumping nightlife of Cancun, splash around, sunbake and play on Playa del Carmen’s white-sand beaches. Days 1-2 Mexico City One of the fastest-growing urban centres in the world, Mexico City presents an intoxicating mix of mariachi music, lively night scenes, fascinating museums and intriguing markets. Get to know what makes this buzzing metropolis tick on an orientation walk. Days 3-4 Puebla Spend some time exploring Puebla’s handicraft stalls and tuck into some mole poblano if you can. Days 5-7 Oaxaca/Overnight Bus Well-known for its colourful art and handicrafts scene, Oaxaca is a delight to explore. Stock up on some unique souvenirs, zip out to the Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban or sink your teeth into some peculiar local delicacies. Days 8-9 San Cristobal de las Casas Venture into the cool climes of San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming colonial-era town with spectacular natural surrounds. Visit the fascinating traditional villages, mountain bike in the surrounding hills or jump on an optional tour to
the Sumidero Canyon. Day 10 Palenque Stop to take a cooling dip at Agua Azul waterfall en route to Palenque. Days 11-13 Merida One of the most impressive Maya sites in Mexico, the temples of Palenque are a superb relic of Maya culture and architectural enterprise. Climb the temples for breathtaking views across the jungle, watch for monkeys swinging through the canopy. Continue to the charming colonial city of Merida. Spend some time soaking up the vibe: chill out in the Plaza Grande, try some local delicacies like cochinita pibil (a slow-roasted pork dish) or join an optional tour out to the incredible Uxmal ruins. Days 14-15 Chichen Itza/Playa del Carmen Explore the amazing ruins of Chichen Itza en route to the beachside haven of Playa del Carmen, where relaxation is the order of the day. There's no shortage of activities on offer; snorkel the nearby reefs and islands or join in the local nightlife.
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Mexico City
Chichen Itza
Puebla Palenque Oaxaca San Juan Chamula
QVRM
San Cristobal de las Casas
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (13 nts), overnight public bus (1 nt) No meals included Public bus, overnight public bus, local bus, private vehicle, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Tuesdays & Saturdays Enter QVRM on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Antigua By The Bean Get buzzed and brewed on a caffeinefuelled coffee adventure. Head beyond the city limits on this day tour to explore local coffee plantations, learn the history of the bean in Guatemala and finish up with a tasty local market stroll.
For more info head to urbanadventures.com Tulum, Mexico
Maya Encounter
Playa del Carmen Tulum
17 DAYS, PLAYA DEL CARMEN TO ANTIGUA This overland adventure covers big parts of Belize and Guatemala, allowing you to see some of the best of Central America. Extended time in Caye Caulker and Antigua provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy laidback island vibes as well as buzzy colonial city life. Visiting the colourful Maya villages surrounding Lake Atitlan in the Guatemalan Highlands is a humbling experience. Day 1 Playa del Carmen Start off your adventure in Mexico’s famous playground of sun and fun. Days 2-3 Tulum White-sand beaches lapped by warm blue waters and watched over by crumbling Maya ruins – welcome to Tulum. Days 4-6 Caye Caulker Cross the border into Belize and cruise out to Caye Caulker – an idyllic, tropical island getaway where exceptional snorkelling or swinging the day away in a hammock are equally appealing options. Days 7-8 San Ignacio Trade the blues of the Caribbean for the lush green of San Ignacio in the Belize hinterlands. Perhaps venture out to the Maya ruins of Xunantunich or embark on an tubing adventure through the jungle. Day 9 Tikal National Park Cross into Guatemala and journey out to Tikal National Park. Be awestruck by the enormous limestone temples towering over the jungle. Those feeling energetic can hike to the top for stunning views. Later, set up camp and watch the sun set over this
majestic place. Days 10-11 Rio Dulce Continue on to Rio Dulce. In spare time perhaps visit the coastal enclave of Livingston for a taste of Creole-Caribbean culture or take a hike through Chocon-Machacas Natural Reserve. Day 12 Antigua Explore the quaint colonial architecture of Antigua, one of Central America’s most captivating cities. Day 13 Chichicastenango/San Jorge La Laguna Homestay Visit the picturesque mountain town of Chichicastenango and browse its bustling market. Then continue on to San Jorge La Laguna and get an insight into local life on an overnight family homestay. Day 14 Lake Atitlan/Panajachel A lovely town on the banks of Lake Atitlan, Panajachel is the main base for exploring the traditional villages dotted around the lake. With a serene ambience and superb mountain panoramas, it’s also the perfect place to sit back with a good book. Days 15-17 Antigua Return to Antigua where the trip ends.
MEX IC O San Ignacio Tikal NP
Caye Caulker
B E LIZE
Chichicastenango San Jorge La Rio Dulce Laguna Homestay GUATE MA LA Lake Atitlan Antigua Panajachel
QVRA
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (12 nts), camping with basic facilities (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), multishare lodge (2 nts) 1 breakfast, 1 dinner Ferry, private vehicle, public bus, taxi, shared boat DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico
Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Mexico & Guatemala Highlights
Playa del Carmen Merida
11 DAYS, PLAYA DEL CARMEN TO ANTIGUA Step back in time and explore the ruins of ancient civilisations, such as the Maya city of Chichen Itza. Explore the stunning lakeside town of Panajachel and the many indigenous communities nearby in the Guatemalan highlands. Wander the cobblestone streets of San Cristobal de las Casas, an artistic hub full of colourful murals and colonial architecture. Day 1 Playa del Carmen Enjoy the white sands of this beachside playground. Maybe kick off your shoes and listen to some music at one of the many beachfront bars. Day 2 Chichen Itza/Merida Wonder and wander through Chichen Itza, where the vestiges of a grand city exemplify the marvellous Maya fusion of religion, architecture and geometry. Then, travel on to the Yucatan capital of Merida and enjoy a tour of the city. Day 3 Merida Brush up on your Spanish then put your new skills to use while wandering this charming old-world city. Why not try some cochinita pibil (barbecue pork) and stroll down Paseo de Mantejo, where 19th-century mansions line the street. Days 4-5 Palenque Travel through the scenic region of Chiapas to reach Palenque, an ancient Maya city state. Listen for the eerie calls of howler monkeys while exploring crumbling pyramids that are now partially swallowed by thick,
green jungle. Day 6 San Cristobal de las Casas Cool off in the turquoise waterfalls of Agua Azul while en route to San Cristobal de las Casas. A city of colour and craft, the winding cobblestone streets and colonial architecture make San Cristobal de las Casas a joy to explore on foot. Day 7 San Cristobal de las Casas Travel to nearby San Juan Chamula, where the indigenous Maya population live in an insular and unique community. Visit the local church, where a blend of ancient ritual, animism and Catholicism is practised. Days 8-9 Lake Atitlan/Panajachel Built flush against the gorgeous Lake Atitlan, this Guatemalan highlands town is a great place to enjoy water sports or to use as a base from which you can explore the many indigenous villages nearby. Days 10-11 Antigua Soak up the atmosphere in Guatemala’s cultural capital. Perhaps learn some sizzling new moves at one of the many salsa dancing schools.
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Chichen Itza
MEX IC O Palenque San Cristobal de las Casas
GU ATE MA LA
San Juan Chamula Lake Atitlan
QVSJ
Antigua Panajachel
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (10 nts) 5 breakfasts Private vehicle, public bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Maya underworld explorer Descend into the ancient underground rivers and caves of Playa del Carmen. Argue over whether it’s a stalactite or stalagmite, swim through crystal-clear cenotes and finish off your day tour with a traditional Maya ceremony. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Bacalar, Mexico
Guatemala to Mexico
Playa del Carmen Tulum
13 DAYS, ANTIGUA TO PLAYA DEL CARMEN
ME X IC O
Cruise between sheer granite cliffs on a boat ride to Livingston, a colourful Garifuna town of mixed ethnic Guatemalan and Caribbean ancestry. Enclosed by jungle and resounding with the chatter of monkeys, Tikal’s temple complex is one of the Maya world’s most impressive remnants. Days 1-2 Antigua Welcome to one of Latin America’s most charming cities. Days 3-4 Rio Dulce Head north towards Amatique Bay, then take a scenic boat trip to Livingston and encounter the unique Garifuna culture. Day 5 Flores Explore the narrow lanes, pastel-coloured buildings and rustic shops of Flores. Day 6 Tikal National Park/San Ignacio Soaring high above the jungle canopy, the enormous limestone temples of the Tikal ruins are some of the most impressive remnants of the Maya empire. Days 7-9 Caye Caulker Laze in the sun, swim in the warm waters, or take an optional jaunt to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve for the opportunity to swim with sharks. Days 10-11 Tulum For a taste of Maya architecture take an optional visit of the ruins – you can even go for a swim within the ancient walls. Days 12-13 Playa del Carmen The vibrant beach town of Playa del Carmen is the perfect place for some fun in the sun. Dive into crystal-blue waters and snorkel among the colourful marine life.
Caye Caulker San Ignacio Tikal B E LIZE Flores Livingston Antigua
GU A TE MALA
QVSB
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (12 nts)
Private vehicle, shared boat, public bus, ferry, taxi, local bus
Selected Thursdays & Saturdays Enter QVSB on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Yucatan Peninsula Adventure
Merida
8 DAYS, PLAYA DEL CARMEN TO TULUM
Playa del Carmen
Chichen Itza
Discover the lost city of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and learn about the Maya culture in colonial Merida.
Day 1 Playa del Carmen Bienvenido, amigos! Playa del Carmen is a popular resort town famed for its coral reef and clear water, so feel free to arrive early and take a stroll along the sand. Day 2 Merida Depart early for Chichen Itza and explore the famous ruins on a guided tour. Continue to Merida, the charming Yucatan capital, and take a leader-led orientation walk before enjoying a free evening. Day 3 Merida Free day – perhaps take an excursion to the Celestun Bird Sanctuary. Days 4-5 Calakmul Practice your Spanish as you travel to Calakmul, a remote archaelogical site located deep in the jungle. Explore this UNESCO-listed Maya site, part of the secondlargest expanse of tropical forest in the Americas and a key part of the region’s history for over 1200 years. Day 6 Bacalar Stop en route to Bacalar, known as the Lagoon of Seven Colours, for a swim at Cenote Azul. Day 7 Tulum Bus to Tulum, famous for crystal waters, coral reefs and ruins. Day 8 Tulum Your trip ends after breakfast.
Tulum
MEX IC O Bacalar
Cool off in Mexico’s warm oceans and expansive lagoons. Take the plunge in Bacalar, a laidback lake town famous for its ever-changing shades of blue water.
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ORIGINAL
12 breakfasts
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Rio Dulce
Calakmul
QBSY
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), lodge (2 nts) 4 breakfasts, 2 dinners Private vehicle, public bus, taxi
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Teotihuacan, Mexico
Rio Dulce, Guatemala
Mexican Heartlands
MEXICO
15 DAYS, MEXICO CITY TO MEXICO CITY Stand in awe at the foot of Teotihuacan’s Pyramid of the Sun and imagine what life was like when this was the world’s sixth-largest city.
Guanajuato Guadalajara
Days 1-3 Mexico City Enjoy a guided walk of iconic city sights. Visit the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon at the holy city of Teotihuacan. Days 4-5 Queretaro Travel to Queretaro, where the bustling city streets give way to pretty plazas. Day 6 San Miguel de Allende Journey on to historic San Miguel de Allende. Pay a visit the Independence Museum and discover the city’s brilliant Spanish colonial architecture. Days 7-8 Guanajuato Named a World Heritage site in 1988, Guanajuato was developed with riches acquired from rapid mineral discovery in the 1500s. Days 9-10 Guadalajara Explore this vibrant city and sample tequila made from the blue agave plant. Day 11 Patzcuaro Explore one of the stunning ‘Pueblos Magicos’ (Magic Villages). Days 12-13 Morelia Visit the stone ruins of Tzintzuntzan and walk the heritage-listed streets of Morelia. Days 14-15 Mexico City Come full circle and return to Mexico City, where this trip comes to an end. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Morelia
Patzcuaro
Spend a day exploring the cobblestones, cultural and arts scene in San Miguel de Allende, a World Heritage-listed colonial city.
QVSM
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (14 nts) 14 breakfasts Private vehicle, public bus, taxi
9 DAYS, ANTIGUA TO ANTIGUA
Flores
Take a boat down the remote Rio Dulce to laidback Livingston, an isolated town on the Carribean Sea with a strong Garifuna culture. Day 1 Antigua Transfer from Guatemala City on arrival for a 6 pm welcome meeting and optional group dinner. Days 2-3 Rio Dulce Journey to Rio Dulce. Take a scenic boat ride down the river, keeping an eye out for manatees, and arrive at the laidback Garifuna town of Livingston. Day 4 Flores Explore with your leader then spend the afternoon relaxing, or perhaps take a boat tour of Lake Peten Itza to explore the El Castillo fort before a free evening. Day 5 Tikal/Flores Sunrise at the magnificent Tikal ruins, an awesome sight with five granite temples rising above the jungle. Days 6-7 Lake Atitlan/Panajachel Fly to Guatemala City then transfer to Panajachel, a highland town on Lake Atitlan. Jump on a boat across the lake to Santiago, one of several traditional, colourful villages scattered around the lake. Days 8-9 Antigua This is the cultural centre of Guatemala, full of colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. Take a guided tour of the city, then why not enjoy a farewell dinner with your group. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Teotihuacan Mexico City
Tzintzuntzan Ruins
Guatemala Experience Venture deep into the jungle and gaze over the canopy from the palatial ruins of the ancient Maya city of Tikal.
San Miguel de Allende Queretaro
Tikal Livingston Rio Dulce
Panajachel Lake Atitlan
Antigua
G U A T E M A LA
QBKG
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts) 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch Plane, private vehicle, shared boat
Caye Caulker, Belize
Tikal National Park, Belize
Land of Belize
Caye Caulker
8 DAYS, BELIZE CITY TO CAYE CAULKER
Belize City
Explore the waterfalls, swimming holes, freshwater rivers and intricate cave systems of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve near San Ignacio. Whether the goal is total relaxation or engaging in adventurous, water-based activities, Caye Caulker has all bases covered. Shake together some charming colonial estates, white sandy beaches and Maya ruins and you end up with Belize City – the perfect Central American cocktail. Day 1 Belize City Get to know Belize’s former capital on a guided walking tour of Belize City, where remnants of British colonial rule have fused with the tropical climate to form an intriguing and colourful creole culture. Head for one of the museums or art galleries for a versing in Belizean history, or pop down to the Newtown Barracks district, where a cluster of restaurants and bars cater to a lively all-local crowd. Days 2-3 San Ignacio Travel to San Ignacio, a lush jungle region brimming with waterfalls, warm swimming holes and the intricate cave systems of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Gain insight into ancient civilisations on a trip to the impressive ruins of Cahal Pech, the oldest known Maya site in Belize, or to the Maya ceremonial centre of Xunantunich. Back in town, chow down on the range of barbecued delights sizzling away at the street stalls. Day 4 Tikal National Park Wake early for the chance to catch a golden sunrise
from the top of the majestic Tikal ruins. Spend the day exploring the towering Maya temples, keeping an eye out for howler monkeys, brightly coloured toucans and macaws sweeping through the jungle canopy. Spend a night camping under the stars, and fall asleep to the spirited sounds of the surrounding jungle. Days 5-8 Caye Caulker Discover a laidback Caribbean paradise on the balmy Belizean island of Caye Caulker. Whether the goal is absolute relaxation or adventurous aquatic activities, Caye Caulker has all bases covered. You might want to kick back on the beach, or head out to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the area’s reefs to snorkel among schools of multicoloured fish and admire the marine life and stalactites. Celebrate the end of this ’unbelizeable’ adventure with a seafood feast at one of the many fantastic beachside restaurants, then wash it down with a glass of fiery Belizean rum.
San Ignacio
B E LIZE
Tikal NP Cahal Pech Ruins
GU ATE MALA
QVSE
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (6 nts), camping with basic facilities (1 nt) 4 breakfasts Private vehicle, local bus, taxi, ferry DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Suchitoto, El Salvador
Ometepe Island, Nicaragua
Best of El Salvador 8 DAYS, SAN SALVADOR TO EL TUNCO Known for its surf and laidback atmosphere, El Tunco is the perfect spot to kick back with a drink and sway the days away from the comfort of a hammock.
Tazumal Ruins Ahuachapan Ruta de las flores El Tunco
E L SA LVAD OR
Discover waterfalls, coffee plantations and colourful colonial towns on a ride along the memorable Ruta de las Flores. Day 1 San Salvador Welcome to San Salvador! Day 2 Suchitoto Begin the day with an orientation walk of San Salvador before stopping off at the anthropological museum and Iglesia el Rosario. Drive to Suchitoto in the afternoon for a guided walk through the rustic streets. Day 3 Suchitoto Those looking to kick things up a gear may fancy a hike in the Cinquera Forest or kayaking on Lago Suchitlan. Day 4 Ahuachapan Travel onwards to Ahuachapan, taking in the Tazumal and Joya de Ceren ruins along the way. Day 5 Ahuachapan Hit the road for a ride down the Ruta de las Flores, a beautiful stretch of land adorned with wildflowers, artsy colonial towns, coffee plantations and natural wonder. Days 6-8 El Tunco Perhaps hire a board and tackle the waves, or visit the beach caves at low tide. The sun setting over the black-sand beach creates a rare spectacle that most international travellers miss. Try the local specialty of pupusa and join the locals down from San Salvador at the bar. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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QBSE
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), lodge (2 nts) 7 breakfasts Private vehicle
Cycle Nicaragua & Costa Rica 8 DAYS, GRANADA TO SAN JOSE
Suchitoto San Salvador
N IC AR A GUA Granada
Pedal past steamy jungle scenery and soak up Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity before ending in San Jose, the buzzing capital city. Cycle across varied landscapes, from tranquil Nicaraguan countryside and rich agricultural areas, to smoking volcanoes that bubble with red-hot molten lava. Day 1 Granada Arrive in Granada, a city of magnificent architecture set on the banks of Lake Nicaragua. Day 2 Masaya/Granada Take an early morning ride through the Nicaraguan countryside, past old colonial forts and small settlements, to Apoyo Lagoon. Then on to the bubbling molten lava of Masaya Volcano. Day 3 Ometepe Island Cruise to Ometepe Island and explore the north side of Conception Volcano from the saddle, seeing ancient rock carvings along the way. Day 4 Maderas Volcano/San Juan del Sur Ride around the Maderas Volcano, keeping an eye out for monkeys and birdlife. Cap off the day watching the sunset on a San Juan del Sur beach. Days 5-6 Arenal Ford rivers and climb hills to arrive at Lake Fortuna. Explore the El Castillo area, a region famous for its agricultural bounties. Day 7 Santa Rosa de Pocosol Cycle to Santa Rosa for a chance to meet the locals, help with farm chores or take a cooking class. Day 8 San Jose The adventure ends in Costa Rica’s capital. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Masaya
Ometepe Island Arenal Santa Rosa de Pocosol El Castillo
San Juan del Sur
C OS TA R IC A
QZXN
San Jose
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (3 nts), guesthouse (4 nts) 7 breakfasts Bicycle, support vehicle, boat
Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Central American Journey 17 DAYS, ANTIGUA TO SAN JOSE
GUATEMALA
N IC A R A GU A
Suchitoto
Discover Central America, a land of mysterious Maya ruins, active volcanoes, idyllic beaches and emerald jungles.
E L SA LVA D OR
Whether it’s reflecting back at you in the lake or heating the thermal pools you’re stewing in, Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano always makes its presence felt. and surrounding countryside of active volcanoes. Days 10-11 Ometepe Island Cruise over to Ometepe Island. Perhaps take a hike up to the summit of either the Concepcion or Maderas volcanoes, both rigorous but rewarding climbs. Maybe splash around in the natural springs, soak up the sun on the beach or check out the island’s petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings). Days 12-13 Monteverde Costa Rica beckons. Arrive in the eco-lover’s paradise of Monteverde and choose to explore the expansive cloud forest either on foot, by bike or by ziplining through the canopy. Days 14-15 La Fortuna Take a scenic drive to La Fortuna, a small town shadowed by the Arenal Volcano. Perhaps take a trip to relax in the hot springs or explore the waterfalls. Days 16-17 San Jose Take a guided walk through lively San Jose and enjoy the capital’s nightlife, then why not organise a final feast with your group to say farewell before the trip ends.
Leon
El Cuco
Granada
Ometepe Island
Volcanoes, wildlife-rich rainforest and ancient rock carvings – Ometepe Island has it all. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore Nicaragua’s largest island.
Day 1 Antigua Walk along cobblestone streets and past the heavy wood-carved entrances of Antigua. Day 2 Copan Travel across the wild Guatemalan countryside and cross the border into Honduras. Days 3-4 Suchitoto Opt to visit the World Heritage-listed Maya ruins of Copan. These spectacular 1500-year-old ruins are the southernmost Maya sites for which Central America is famous. Arriving in Suchitoto, El Salvador, explore cobbled streets or perhaps head to Lago Suchitlan for some kayaking. Days 5-6 El Cuco Spend time in beautiful El Cuco. Take a boat cruise, unwind with some yoga, or relax in a hammock on the beach. By night, perhaps enjoy a seafood dinner along the water at your eco-hotel. Day 7 Leon Travel by private vehicle and boat across the Gulf of Fonseca to Nicaragua. If there’s time, visit Leon’s grand cathedral for a great city view. Days 8-9 Granada Enjoy a free day in Granada exploring the city’s markets
HONDURAS Copan
Antigua
La Fortuna
Monteverde
C OS TA R IC A
QVRJ
San Jose
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (14 nts), lodge (2 nts) No meals included Public bus, local bus, taxi, private boat, shared boat, ferry, private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Granada, Nicaragua
Ometepe Island, Nicaragua
Best of Nicaragua NICARAGUA
9 DAYS, GRANADA TO SAN JUAN DEL SUR One of the oldest colonial towns in the Americas, Granada is a photogenic mix of cobbled streets and colourful historic architecture. Spend time at Los Ramos, a local indigenous community on Ometepe Island, to experience a slice of local island life. Chill out in the coastal town of San Juan del Sur, where the beaches are beautiful, the waves are tailor-made for surfing and there’s a hammock with your name on it. Days 1-2 Granada Bienvenido a Nicaragua! This adventure begins in the nation’s laidback capital. Take a full-day tour of the city’s markets and streets, meet the monkeys on the aptly named Monkey Island and visit the steaming Masaya Volcano and its surrounding national park. In the evening, perhaps get out to a local restaurant and try ‘gallo pinto’, a traditional dish made with beans and rice. Days 3-4 Leon This old colonial city is packed with stunning historic architecture and interesting museums, but what sets Leon apart is its vibrant energy. Perhaps visit its magnificant cathedral, the largest in Central America, and look for the tomb of Leon’s favourite son, the poet Ruben Dario. Alternatively, adventurous types may want to try their hand at sandboarding at Cerro Negro, a nearby volcano. Days 5-6 Ometepe Island Formed by two volcanoes rising out of Lake Nicaragua,
the hourglass-shaped Ometepe is home to fruit plantations, deep jungle and exotic wildlife. Visit Los Ramos, a local indigenous community, to learn how to make traditional Nicaraguan dishes. Afterwards, spend your time soaking in the natural springs, sunbathing on the beach, checking out the island’s petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings) or hiking to the summit of either of the island’s volcanos. Days 7-9 San Juan del Sur Journey to Nicaragua’s southwest coast for sun and surf in San Juan del Sur. This colourful town has plenty to offer those looking to get active. Perhaps rent a surfboard and ride the waves. Or choose to climb a cliff that houses a towering statue of Jesus at the top and be rewarded with a spectacular view of the bay. Perhaps enjoy a final dinner with your group and sample the city’s thriving nightlife before your trip comes to an end.
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Leon San Juan Del Sur
QBSN
Granada Ometepe Island
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts) 4 breakfasts, 1 dinner Private vehicle, ferry, public bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Suchitoto, El Salvador
Monteverde, Costa Rica
Guatemala & Beyond GUATEMALA
9 DAYS, ANTIGUA TO GRANADA Experience El Salvador's past in the colonial town of Suchitoto, a haven for architectural buffs, before savouring the blissful present on its black-sand beaches. Absorb the 24/7 buzz of Leon, a Nicaraguan city of colourful streetscapes, fiery debate, eclectic art galleries and pulsating nightlife. Day 1 Antigua Welcome to Guatemala. Day 2 Copan Travel through the the wild countryside to the Honduras town of Copan. Perhaps visit nearby hot springs. Day 3 Suchitoto Enjoy free time in the morning. Maybe visit Copan's Maya ruins. In the afternoon, cross into El Salvador and head to Suchitoto. Day 4 Suchitoto After a walking tour of El Salvador's cultural capital you may choose to bike or kayak Cerron Grande reservoir or hike in the lush surrounds of the nearby Cinquera rainforest. Day 5 El Cuco Soak up some rays on the dark-sand beaches of Playa Las Flores, one of the best surf spots in the country. Day 6 El Cuco Explore El Cuco as you please. Day 7 Leon Get to know this youthful Nicaraguan town, full of art and busy streets with a thumping nightlife. Days 8-9 Granada Hit the road for Granada, a city oozing colonial charm and surrounded by active volcanoes. Perhaps stop in at La Calzada, a lively street full of bars, before the adventure ends.
Antigua Suchitoto
E L SA LVA D OR
Leon
Granada
N IC A R A GUA
QVRK
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (8 nts)
Private vehicle, local bus, public bus, private boat, taxi
Selected Fridays Enter QVRK on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Nicaragua & Costa Rica
N IC A R A GU A
10 DAYS, GRANADA TO SAN JOSE
Granada
Discover Nicaragua and Costa Rica, two countries filled with active volcanoes, idyllic lakes and emerald jungles. Choose your own adventure with the option to hike, cycle or zip-line through the steamy cloud forests of Monteverde in Costa Rica. Day 1 Granada Arrive in Granada. Explore the markets and surrounding countryside – replete with active volcanoes. Day 2 Granada With a free day, maybe join a guided tour of the city, explore markets or cruise the islets of Lake Nicaragua by boat. Days 3-4 Ometepe Island Spot the world’s only freshwater sharks in Lake Nicaragua en route to Ometepe Island. Take an optional hike to one of two towering volcanoes on the island, or chill out at the beach. Days 5-6 Monteverde Arrive in the eco-lover’s paradise of Monteverde. Explore this lush jungle haven on foot, mountain bike, or by zip-line. For a guaranteed wildlife encounter, visit the butterfly gardens. Days 7-8 La Fortuna Explore the hot springs and giant waterfalls surrounding this town, which sits in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano. There are plenty of optional activities to choose from while here. Days 9-10 San Jose Join locals milling around Mercado Central for some super-cheap Costa Rican food and colourful souvenirs.
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El Cuco
No meals included
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
HONDURAS Copan
Ometepe Island La Fortuna Monteverde
C OS TA R IC A
QVRL
San Jose
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (7 nts), lodge (2 nts) No meals included Private vehicle, ferry, public bus, shared boat, taxi
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La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Classic Costa Rica
Rio Celeste La Fortuna
15 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO SAN JOSE Enter the mists of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you could spot sloths lounging in the trees. Get a feel for what it’s like to live off the land, pitching in with farm work and cooking chores on an agricultural homestay in Santa Rosa de Pocosol. Relax and take a dip in the springs of La Fortuna, where the water is heated by lava from the Arenal Volcano. Day 1 San Jose An assortment of galleries, theatres and lively central plazas set among glitzy modern shopping malls make this one of Central America’s most surprising capitals. Days 2-3 Tortuguero National Park Enjoy the thick forests, cool waterways and abundant wildlife of Tortuguero National Park. An optional canoe trip or canopy tour offers a different perspective on this amazing, precious ecosystem. Day 4 Santa Rosa de Pocosol Homestay Venture out to Santa Rosa de Pocosol and spend the night in a local homestay. Just down the road, visit the incredible Juanilama agricultural community, the perfect place to hang out with the locals. You might want to get your hands dirty helping out with chores around the farm, catch fresh fish for dinner and learn the best ways to cook them. Days 5-6 Rio Celeste The lush banks of this truly magical river await. Explore falls and streams where the water is so
blue and bright it looks photoshopped. Days 7-8 La Fortuna A sleepy little town set against an awesome backdrop, La Fortuna makes a great base for adventures. The Arenal Volcano’s inner workings also mean that the area has a number of thermal springs where hot, lavaheated water gushes to the surface, an ideal place to relax. Days 9-10 Monteverde Spend a few days touring the cloud forest, looking out for long-snouted Tapirs and sedate sloths in the mist. Days 11-13 Manuel Antonio Feel the crunch of foliage underfoot while you hike the trails of the national park. Keep one eye on the great views and the other looking for the abundant wildlife. Monkeys, armadillos, sloths and hundreds of birds are among the species you may be able to spot. The beaches here are also excellent, with soft sand and clear waters. Days 14-15 San Jose Emerge from the wilderness and return to lively San Jose, where the markets are waiting.
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Santa Rosa de Pocosol Homestay Tortuguero NP
Monteverde
San Jose
C OSTA R IC A
QVSR
Manuel Antonio
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts), lodge (6 nts), homestay (1 nt) 5 breakfasts, 1 dinner Shared boat, shared vehicle, private vehicle, public bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Thursdays & Saturdays Enter QVSR on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Costa Rica pura vida experience Unmask the beauty of contemporary Costa Rica life on this four-hour walking tour of San Jose and Escazu. Feast on local cuisine in a 100-year-old restaurant, sample traditional chicha and spend some time with the legendary locals. For more info head to urbanadventures.com La Fortuna, Costa Rica
San Jose, Costa Rica
Costa Rica Experience
La Fortuna
9 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO SAN JOSE Pick up some home-cooked recipes on an overnight stay with the locals of the Juanilama community. Get active in La Fortuna hiking to a waterfall or exploring the waterways of Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge by boat. With more than 2000 species of plants, 320 bird species and 100 different types of mammals, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is lush and full of wildlife. Day 1 San Jose At once historic and modern, lively and laidback, the Costa Rican capital of San Jose makes for an enthralling introduction to Central America. With the group meeting not until early evening, perhaps head out for an exploration of the city’s many galleries, museums and handicraft markets. Day 2 Santa Rosa de Pocosol Homestay Set out across the countryside to Santa Rosa de Pocosol for an overnight homestay. Pop into the Juanilama agricultural community and see how rural ‘ticos’ – an affectionate local term for Costa Ricans – live. Day 3 La Fortuna Continue on to La Fortuna, a small mountain town backed by the spectacular Arenal Volcano. Nature-based activities abound here – trek out to the Fortuna waterfall, take a Cano Negro boat tour, or soak up the steamy goodness of the Baldi Hot Springs. Days 4-5 Monteverde Keep your eyes peeled for the resplendent quetzal and a bunch of other creatures
that inhabit the dense cloud forest of Monteverde. In your spare time, opt for a coffee plantation tour, creep through the treetops on a canopy walk, visit the local butterfly park, or give zip-lining a shot. Days 6-7 Quepos/Manuel Antonio National Park Travel down through the mountains to Quepos, a scenic little beach town near Manuel Antonio National Park. Head out for a hike along its many trails, keeping an eye on the great views while looking out for the abundant wildlife. Monkeys, armadillos and sloths are among the species you may be able to spot. Alternatively, walk through the canopy on suspension bridges or watch butterflies at play in a specially created garden. Days 8-9 San Jose Return to San Jose for a final night of sampling the city’s dining options and bars. Perhaps enjoy a group dinner and a final toast to the beauty and hospitality of this incredible nation.
Santa Rosa de Pocosol Homestay
Monteverde San Jose
C OS TA R IC A Manuel Antonio NP
QVSS
Quepos
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts), homestay (1 nt) 1 breakfast, 1 dinner Private vehicle, shared vehicle, shared boat, public bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter QVSS on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Caye Caulker, Belize
Central American Adventure 33 DAYS, PLAYA DEL CARMEN TO SAN JOSE A few days on Caye Caulker provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy laidback island vibes and exceptional snorkelling on the nearby reefs. A homestay in San Jorge La Laguna invites you to connect with a local family. Sit down for breakfast and dinner with your hosts and work on improving your Spanish. Hike, cycle or zip-line through the steamy cloud forests of Monteverde in Costa Rica. Get up close with hundreds of animal and plant species that call this place home. Day 1 Playa del Carmen Start off your adventure in this sandy playground. Days 2-3 Tulum Enjoy white-sand beaches watched over by crumbling Maya ruins. Days 4-6 Caye Caulker An idyllic island where snorkelling and hammocks are both good options. Days 7-8 San Ignacio Trade the blues of the Caribbean for the verdant highlands of San Ignacio. Day 9 Tikal NP Cross the border into Guatemala and visit the Tikal ruins, experiencing a special sunset over this majestic spot. Days 10-11 Rio Dulce Continue on to Rio Dulce, maybe visiting Livingston for a taste of Creole-Caribbean culture. Day 12 Antigua Explore the colonial architecture of one of Central America’s most captivating cities. Day 13 Chichicastenango/San Jorge La Laguna Homestay Visit Chichicastenango and browse its busy market. Continue to San Jorge for an insight into local life on an overnight homestay. Day 14
Lake Atitlan/Panajachel This beautiful town is a great base for exploring the traditional villages dotted around the lake. Days 15-17 Antigua Return to the colourful handicraft stalls of Antigua. Day 18 Copan Travel through the Guatemalan countryside and cross into Honduras. Days 19-20 Suchitoto Opt to visit the ruins of Copan before arriving in Suchitoto. Days 21-22 El Cuco Take a boat cruise, unwind with some yoga or relax in a hammock on the beach. Day 23 Leon Travel across the waters of the Gulf of Fonseca to Nicaragua. Days 24-25 Granada Enjoy some free time in Granada. Days 26-27 Ometepe Island Take a hike, soak up the sun or check out this island’s petroglyphs. Days 28-29 Monteverde Costa Rica beckons. Explore the cloud forest on foot, bike or by zip-lining through the canopy. Days 30-31 La Fortuna Hit the hot springs. Days 32-33 San Jose Take a guided walk and explore the capital, then bid farewell.
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ME X IC O
San Ignacio
Playa del Carmen Tulum
GU ATE MALA
Caye Caulker Tikal NP BE LIZE Chichicastenango Rio Dulce H ON D U R A S San Jorge La Laguna Homestay Copan Lake Atitlan Suchitoto N ICA R A GU A Panajachel Antigua Leon Granada El Cuco La Fortuna Ometepe Island Monteverde San Jose
C OSTA R IC A
QVRXC
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (26 nts), lodge (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), multishare lodge (2 nts) 1 breakfast, 1 dinner Private vehicle, shared boat, private boat, ferry, local bus, public bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays & Tuesdays Enter QVRXC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Corcovado, Costa Rica
Keel-billed Toucan, Costa Rica
Best of Costa Rica
C OSTA R IC A San Jose
9 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO SAN JOSE Take in the atmosphere and culture of San Jose, Costa Rica’s bustling capital nestled between mountains and volcanoes.
Manuel Antonio
Nature lovers rejoice! Visit Manuel Antonio and Corcovado national parks and swim off white-sand beaches while searching for tropical birds, iguanas and sloths. Visit Los Santos, Costa Rica’s coffee capital, for a coffee tour and tasting that’ll leave you with a caffeine fix you’ll never forget. Day 1 San Jose San Jose is this dreamy country’s capital, a bustling city flanked by mountains to the south and more mountains to the north, with a few volcanoes thrown in for good measure. Days 2-3 Savegre Take a leader-led walking tour of downtown San Jose then drive to Costa Rica’s coffee capital, Los Santos, for a coffee tour and tasting. Continue to Savegre and your intimate lodge in the cloud forest. Visit Los Quetzales National Park for optional activities including a canopy zip-wire adventure, a highlands hike or birdwatching – keep an eye out for the elusive quetzal. Days 4-5 Corcovado En route to Corcovado, visit the Finca 6 museum where you’ll spend an hour learning about the mysterious, preColumbian spheres of Sierpe, whose significance remains unknown. Arrive at Corcovado, a national park on the romantic Osa Peninsula. You’ll stay at a secluded lodge in the rainforest and enjoy this lush, tropical area with
optional activities like hiking the national park, kayaking on the lagoon or birdwatching. Days 6-7 Manuel Antonio Drive to Manuel Antonio on the central Pacific coast – you’re now in sloth country! Take a free afternoon to relax then spend the evening on the Pacific, sailing through the sunset. Optional activities include hiking, kayaking and surfing. Days 8-9 San Jose En route to San Jose, stop in Jaco for an aerial tram ride through the rainforest’s canopy. You’ll fly above the treetops for views of the glistening Pacific before exploring the nearby butterfly garden and reptile terrariums. On your return to San Jose you can pick up where you left off exploring this rapidly expanding Latin city – a big chunk of the country’s population lives within its boundaries – with its lively markets, historic neighbourhoods and beautiful old theatres. Perhaps organise a farewell dinner with your group on your last evening.
Los Quetzales NP Savegre
Corcovado
QBKR
COMFORT
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), lodge (3 nts) 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Private vehicle, shared boat DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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Rafting, Costa Rica
Costa Rica: Raft, Surf & Kayak
Tortuguero NP
8 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO SAN JOSE The Pacuare River has been rated one of the top ten best rivers around the world; not only for its rapids, but also its pristine rainforest surrounds and waterfalls. Tortuguero National Park is home to monkeys, reptiles, toucans and macaws, while its waters contain turtles, crocodiles and manatees. Day 1 San Jose With over half the country’s population living within its parameters, San Jose is a bustling city of colourful markets, intriguing museums and heady nightlife. Day 2 Pacuare River Travel to the Pacuare River and hop in a raft for the journey to tonight’s eco-lodge accommodation. Days 3-4 Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Hit the rapids again for another paddle before continuing by bus to the Caribbean coastal town of Limon. Visit Cahuita National Park, a protected area of both rainforest and reef, and surf off the coast. Days 5-6 Tortuguero National Park Welcome to one of the best places in Costa Rica for spotting wildlife. Hop into kayaks and set out on a twohour journey through the park’s canals in search of monkeys, sloths, caimans, lizards, bats and a glut of birdlife. Days 7-8 San Jose Return to Costa Rica’s lively capital. Perhaps head out for a final group dinner and become acquainted with the city’s buzzing night scene. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter QVXA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices
Costa Rica: Hike, Raft & Canyon
Cahuita NP
San Jose
COSTA RICA
QVXA
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
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ORIGINAL
Hotel (4 nts), lodge (3 nts) 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Private vehicle, shared vehicle, shared boat, raft
San Jose Carara NP
COSTA RICA Savegre River Trek San Gerardo de Dota
Quepos Drake Bay
Encounter Costa Rica’s vibrant wildlife on a visit to two nature preserves: Corcovado National Park and the nearby Punta Rio Claro Wildlife Refuge. Day 1 San Jose An assortment of galleries, theatres and lively central plazas set among San Jose’s glitzy modern shopping malls make this one of Central America’s most surprising capitals. Day 2 San Gerardo de Dota Huddled up against the Talamanca Mountain is San Gerardo de Dota, a haven for birdwatchers, hikers and fishing enthusiasts. Days 3-6 Savegre River Trek Set off on a multi-day hike to the Pacific Coast. Guided mainly by the shores of the Savegre River, trek through cloud forests and lowland rainforests to a hidden lodge. Few people know of this area, so make the most of the home-cooked meals and nearby waterfalls. Day 7 Uvita Get ready for a canyoneering adventure, rappelling down rock faces, through canyons, and landing in tranquil ponds. Days 8-9 Corcovado Travel by boat to Drake Bay and visit the Punta Rio Claro National Wildlife Refuge inside the Corcovado National Park. Days 10-11 San Jose Stop off at Carara National Park on the way back to Costa Rica’s capital.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Maximum group size 12
11 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO SAN JOSE Don’t pass up the opportunity to visit a vanilla farm, sleep in a local village and raft down the Savegre River on a multi-day trek to the Pacific Coast.
Pacuare River
Uvita
Corcovado
QVXB
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (4 nts), lodge (2 nts), multishare cabin (4 nts) 10 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Private vehicle, shared boat
Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama Can’t decide where to go because you don’t want to miss a thing? Cycle past steaming volcanoes, wildlife-filled rainforests and idyllic beaches on our 15-day cycling combo in Central America. For more info enter QZXBC on intrepidtravel.com Boquete, Panama
City, Country - Photographer
Cycle Costa Rica & Panama 8 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO PANAMA CITY Chill out with Caribbean vibes in Puerto Viejo, a lively village with great food and even better music.
Cartago San Jose
Puerto Viejo Panama City Panama Canal
C OS TA R IC A
PAN A MA
Boquete/ Baru Volcano
Cycle along the Panama Canal and feel tiny next to the leviathans making their way through the water. Pedal your way through the mountainous Boquete area with a free day to soak in a hot spring, take a coffee tour or try one of the many outdoor activities on offer. Day 1 San Jose Welcome to lively San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. Meet the rest of your group at 6 pm and join them for an optional group dinner. There’s plenty to do if you arrive early, why not check out the Plaza de la Cultura or the Gold Museum? Day 2 Puerto Viejo Depart the city for a taste of the Carribean: think reggae bars and palm-fringed beaches. Take a relaxed ride to beachside Manzanillo and return to Puerto Viejo in time for a sunset drink . Day 3 Puerto Viejo Enjoy a longer ride pedaling past rolling green farmlands, following the Sixaola River that forms the border between Costa Rica and Panama. Return to Puerto Viejo for a free afternoon resting on the beach, hitting the surf or taking it easy at a bamboo bar. Day 4 Boquete Take a vehicle to cross the border to Caldera. Jump back in the saddle for a hilly ride with nice descents then, once you reach the town
of Caldera, board an ATV that’ll take you up to the mountain town of Boquete. Day 5 Boquete Free day in Boquete, a popular destination thanks to the huge range of outdoor activities nearby. Stretch your legs on a coffee tour or soak your muscles in the hot springs. If you’re keen to stay in the saddle, ask your leader about organising an optional ride. Day 6 Panama City Drive to Los Portrerillos for today’s undulating ride along the slopes of the Baru Volcano. Enjoy a long, fun descent, with views of the Pacific on a clear day, then transfer to Panama City after freshening up at the bottom of the hill. Days 7-8 Panama City Enjoy a varied day of cycling in Central America’s glitziest city. Explore the famous canal, Miraflores Locks and Soberania National Park, with the ride ending at the Rainforest Discovery Centre before a free afternoon. Have a farewell dinner with your group before the trip comes to an end.
QZXC
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (3 nts), guesthouse (4 nts) 7 breakfasts Bicycle, support vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays Enter QZXC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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Boqueta, Panama
San Jose, Costa Rica
Costa Rica & Panama Discovery 13 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO PANAMA CITY Who hasn’t dreamt of snorkelling, sun-baking and cocktail-sipping in the Caribbean? Enjoy plenty of time to do just that in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca San Jose
C OS TA R IC A Boquete
Waterfalls, wildflowers, hot springs and mountains – Boquete has it all. Tour a coffee plantation, ride a bike along a river or take a relaxing walk through the forest. Get off the beaten track and ride the waves in surfy Santa Catalina. If you’d prefer to stay dry, there’s a beachside hammock with your name on it. Day 1 San Jose Become acquainted with San Jose’s modern buzz while walking through its busy urban streets and vibrant markets. Perhaps visit one of the city’s interesting museums. Days 2-3 Puerto Viejo de Talamanca While Puerto Viejo’s main street has dancehalls, reggaeton bars and modern restaurants, further out you’ll find great surf beaches and fruit farms. Explore them during an included bike ride and, in your free time, head out on a wildlife-spotting excursion to Cahuita National Park or sign up for some surfing lessons. You can also visit a jaguar rescue centre or wander through the Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve. Days 4-6 Bocas del Toro Drive on into Panama and catch a boat out to the tropical archipelago of Bocas del Toro. With azure waters, pristine coral reefs and a rollicking nightlife, it’s easy to see why these islands are a favourite haunt for so many travellers. Days 7-8 Boquete Soak up the tranquil
mountain scenery and crisp air of Boquete, a small town by the Caldera River in the Panamanian highlands. Head out to a local coffee plantation for an insight into coffee production, get active hiking or biking, or relax in the hot springs. Days 9-10 Santa Catalina Travel to the remote fishing village of Santa Catalina on the Pacific coast. Choose to spend your time here surfing, fishing, snorkelling or simply chilling out on the beach. Days 11-13 Panama City Arrive in Panama City, Central America’s glitziest capital. Take a stroll on the bustling waterfront promenade, get a taste of old Panama on a wander through the crumbling architecture of historic Casco Viejo, join an optional tour of the Panama Canal, or explore the plentiful dining and drinking hotspots. As this memorable adventure comes to a close, perhaps mark the occasion with a meal of local specialties or a night out at a dance club.
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Bocas del Toro
Panama City
PAN A MA Santa Catalina
QVRC
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (8 nts), hostel (4 nts) No meals included Public bus, shared boat, private vehicle, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Tuesdays & Fridays Enter QVRC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Panama City, Panama
Costa Rica to Panama
San Jose
8 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO PANAMA CITY A trip to Costa Rica wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of its famous cloud forests. Spend time at Los Quetzales National Park. From wildlife-packed national parks to serene mountain villages to isolated beaches, this trip caters to all levels of adventure. Waterfalls, wildflowers, hot springs and mountains – beautiful Boquete has it all. Tour a coffee plantation, peddle along the river or take a relaxing walk through the forest. Day 1 San Jose Welcome to Costa Rica’s enticing capital, a bustling city with lively markets, intriguing museums and a dynamic atmosphere. Day 2 San Gerardo de Dota Crisp mountain air, lush cloud forests and some of the best bird watching in the country await in this sleepy town. Nestled in the Savegre River Valley beneath the remote Talamanca Mountain Range, not many tourists venture to this hidden slice of paradise. Get acquainted with the town on a short stroll, then learn a thing or two about coffee production with a local tour. Day 3 Los Quetzales National Park/Corcovado Spend some time walking around the cloud forest of Los Quetzales National Park. Do your best to spot the park’s namesake bird, then begin the long drive to Corcovado. Take the chance to learn some Spanish on the way, courtesy of your tour leader. Day 4 Corcovado Explore one of the most
C OSTA R IC A
biologically diverse places on earth, the Corcovado National Park. The second largest national park in the country, it has 13 different ecosystems within its boundaries, including highland cloud forest, lagoons, mangrove swamps and marine habitats, to name just a few. The day is yours to explore as you choose. Days 5-6 Boquete Cross the border into Panama and travel to Boquete, a picturesque town by the Caldera River in the Panamanian highlands. Perhaps head out to a local coffee plantation for an insight into coffee production, bike or hike through nearby mini canyons and hidden waterfalls or take a relaxing soak in the hot springs. Days 7-8 Panama City Travel to Panama City, Central America’s glitziest capital. Stroll the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town), an alluring mix of crumbling architecture, hip bars and trendy boutiques. Perhaps treat your taste buds to an evening food tour.
Los Quetzales National Park
Panama City
San Gerardo de Dota Boquete
Drake Bay
PAN A MA
Corcovado
QBSP
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), lodge (2 nts) 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch Private vehicle, shared boat, public bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays Enter QBSP on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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Antigua, Guatemala
Boquete, Panama
Amazing Central America 29 DAYS, ANTIGUA TO PANAMA CITY Hike, cycle or zip-line through the steamy cloud forests of Monteverde and discover the hundreds of mammal, bird and plant species that call this place home. Waterfalls, wildflowers, hot springs and mountains – beautiful Boquete has it all. Tour a coffee plantation, ride a bike beside a river or take a relaxing walk through the forest. Get off the beaten track and ride the waves in surfy Santa Catalina. There’s a beachside hammock with your name on it. Day 1 Antigua Begin in heritage-listed Antigua. Cheap, tasty local food can be found in the busy markets. Day 2 Copan Travel across the wild Guatemalan countryside and cross the border into Honduras. Days 3-4 Suchitoto Free morning before travelling to Suchitoto, a colonial lakeside town in El Salvador with cobblestone streets and colourful houses. Days 5-6 El Cuco Cruise the coast to this laidback surf town for waves, yoga and hammocks. Day 7 Leon Full day travel into Nicaragua by boat and minivan to arrive in Leon, a perennial traveller’s favourite. Days 8-9 Granada Make the most of a morning in Leon then travel to Granada, the oldest city in the ’New World’, which oozes colonial charm. Take a walking tour then maybe rent a kayak, hike a volcano (by day or night) or stroll La Calzada, a busy pedestrian street. Days 10-11 Ometepe Island Take a boat to lush Ometepe Island. Take an optional hike to one of two towering volcanoes
on the island or choose a slower pace at one of the beaches or swimming holes. Days 12-13 Monteverde Costa Rica beckons: choose to explore the cloud forest by foot, mountain bike or zip-line. Days 14-15 La Fortuna Optional activities galore in the shadow of Costa Rica’s famous Arenal Volcano. Days 16-17 San Jose Spend a few days in Costa Rica’s dynamic capital. Days 18-19 Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Hop on the bus to this laidback surf town that still loves a party. Days 20-22 Bocas del Toro Blue waters, pristine reefs and great nightlife: no wonder these islands are a popular haunt. Days 23-24 Boquete A coffee-crazy town in Panama’s highlands. Days 25-26 Santa Catalina Top snorkelling and even better surfing. La pura vida. Days 27-29 Panama City Finish in Central America’s glitziest city. Drink, dance and shed a tear as you say goodbye to your new buddies.
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H ON D U R AS
GU ATE MALA Antigua
Copan
Suchitoto
El Cuco
N IC AR A GU A
Leon
Granada Puerto Viejo Ometepe Island de Talamanca La Fortuna Monteverde Bocas Panama City del Toro San Jose Boquete
E L SA LVAD OR
C OS TA R IC A
PA N A MA
Santa Catalina
QVRPC
BASIX
Maximum group size 16 Hotel (22 nts), lodge (2 nts), hostel (4 nts) No meals included Private vehicle, shared boat, local bus, public bus, private boat, taxi, ferry DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Mondays & Thursdays Enter QVRPC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Short Break Adventures
Mexico City Stopover 4 DAYS, MEXICO CITY QVHM-O
Enter QVHM on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices
Day 1 Mexico City Spend some time browsing the city's many museums and galleries. Browse the street food stalls in search of delicious antojitos (appetisers). Head out to the Zocalo – the main square – and enjoy peoplewatching in the wide-open space. Day 2 Mexico City Set off on a city tour that takes in Templo Mayor, the Palace of Government for Diego Rivera murals, the Mexico City Cathedral, the Palace of Bellas Artes and the Torre Latinoamericana for panoramic views of Mexico City. Day 3 Mexico City Explore a Mesoamerican city established in 100 BC at the site of Teotihuacan. Visit the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Stop in at the Basilica de Guadalupe and sample the pulque, a tipple that pre-dates tequila. Finish up with an organically sourced dinner in a Mexican home. Day 4 Mexico City Your stopover ends.
San Jose Stopover
Costa Rica Surfing Stopover 4 DAYS, SAN JOSE TO SAN JOSE
4 DAYS, SAN JOSE QVHS-O
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Day 1 San Jose Welcome to this bustling city of lively markets, intriguing museums and artisan booths. Perhaps visit the indigenous artefacts in the Gold Museum or head to the outdoor market in Plaza de la Cultura. Day 2 San Jose There’s no better place to experience local cuisine than at San Jose’s bustling marketplace. Sample local delicacies, learn about medicinal herbs, and hear about the unique chorreado coffee brewing method. Day 3 San Jose Get to know the city on a guided walk, visiting the Yellow House and then the National Liquor Factory to learn how guaro is made from sugar cane juice. Enjoy a scenic train ride through the mountains to Cartago. Pick up a bike and cruise the streets, stopping to visit the key sites including Cartago Central Market. Day 4 San Jose This Costa Rican stopover comes to an end in the morning.
QBHC-O
Enter QBHC on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices
Day 1 San Jose to Santa Teresa Surf’s up amigas y amigos. You’ll be picked up this afternoon and taken to the ferry port in Punta Arenas, to take the ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya to Santa Teresa. On arrival at your hotel the rest of the day is yours to relax. Day 2 Santa Teresa Arrange a time for your surf lesson or, if you’re already a certified salt-dog, pick up a board and hit the waves. Don’t forget to catch the ridiculous sunset. Day 3 Santa Teresa Perhaps visit the Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve. Take a guided tour with a naturalist before returning in the afternoon for some more time on the water. Make the most of your final night in Santa Teresa. Day 4 Santa Teresa to San Jose Throw a goodbye shaka to Santa Teresa and your favourite new hobby. Return to San Jose the same way you came, by ferry and shuttle bus.
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caribbean sailing It’s hard to picture a more perfect sailing destination. Cut through the warm waters of the Caribbean on your way to palm-fringed islands and glorious white-sand beaches and you’ll soon discover why it really is ‘a pirate’s life for me’.
WEATHER Havana Marsh Harbour
Monsoon 25-35ºC Very hot & dry 35ºC+ Hot & dry 25-35ºC Hot & wet 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC
Cuba Sailing Adventure
Havana
CUBA
9 DAYS, HAVANA TO HAVANA Beaches don’t get much better than this. The islands of the Canarreos Archipelago offer miles of pristine white sand and sparkling turquoise reefs to explore. The underwater world of Cayeria Los Majaes is a snorkeller’s dream, thanks to its warm, shallow pools that you could bask in for hours. This being a true sailing trip, there’s plenty of leisure time. When you’re not soaking up your idyllic surrounds on deck, you can while away the evenings by the beach. Day 1 Havana Welcome to Havana, where the streets are alive with action and music drifts through the air. If arriving early, take some time to walk through this colourful city. Day 2 Cienfuegos Journey to Cienfuegos, known locally as the ‘Pearl of the South’. Have lunch with a local family before boarding the yacht and sailing to Cayo Guano Del Este. Days 3-7 Archipelago de los Canarreos Spend the next five days sailing the gorgeous islands of Cuba. By day, chill out on deck, bask in glorious sunshine and soak up the laidback vibe of the Caribbean; by night, enjoy islandstyle barbecues and unwind with new friends beneath the stars. Enjoy a flexible itinerary as you cruise around the archipelago to places like the pristine beaches of Cayo Largo del Sur, which is home to turtles, stingrays and manta rays. Grab some snorkelling gear and witness some of Cuba’s magnificent underwater
scenery in the shallow pools of Cayeria los Majaes. Visit Cayo Rico, home to iguanas, hutias (a species of rodent unique to the Caribbean Islands) and arguably the perfect beach. There’s also a nice cocktail bar, and many umbrellas under which to relax and soak up beach vibes. Continue to uninhabited Cayo Estopa. Its deep-water channel makes it a perfect place to throw out a line and catch the night’s dinner. Nearby Cayo Rosario is also uninhabited by humans, but it teems with marine life – moray eels, groupers, barracudas, lobsters and the odd reef shark, to name a few. The nearby reef is great for snorkelling. Day 8 Cienfuegos The sailing (but not the fun) comes to an end back in Cienfuegos. Head out for a group dinner, then maybe check out the live music scene and hit the dancefloor for some salsa. Day 9 Havana Head back to Cuba’s capital, where this trip comes to an end.
Archipelago de los Canarreos
Cienfuegos
Cayo Guano Cayo de Dios Cayo del Rosario Cayo Rico Cayo Largo del Sur
QSSC
ORIGINAL
Maximum group size 8 Overnight boat (7 nts), homestay (1 nt) 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners Catamaran, public bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Saturdays from November to May Enter QSSC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
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Mexico Sailing & Whale Watching Expedition Take the opportunity to see humpback whales navigating the waters around your yacht when you spend eight days sailing the Sea of Cortez during a whale migration. For more info enter QSSM on intrepidtravel.com City, Country - Photographer
City, Country - Photographer
Bahamas Sailing Adventure 7 DAYS, MARSH HARBOUR TO MARSH HARBOUR Here’s the perfect maiden voyage for those who’ve never been on a yacht. The shallow waters between Great Abaco Island and nearby cays are simply a delight.
Green Turtle Cay Noname Cay Treasure Cay
TH E BA H A MAS Marsh Harbour
Snorkel with sea turtles in protected waters then explore the quaint, picture-perfect island villages. Take advantage of plenty of opportunities to fish, snorkel, kayak and stand-up paddleboard in the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Day 1 Marsh Harbour/Elbow Cay Stock up on supplies in Marsh Harbour, then set sail in the early afternoon. It’s just a short trip across the Sea of Abaco to Elbow Cay, where beautiful beaches abound. Why not take a refreshing afternoon swim or sip a sundowner. Days 2-6 Abaco Islands Set sail for Tahiti Beach, a pristine, laidback strip of coast framed by a grove of coconut palms at Elbow Cay’s southern end. This spot has retained its sublime, unpretentious vibe. Swim in crystal clear waters, do some kayaking or don a snorkel and mask to try and spot a sea turtle. Sail north to the colonial township of Hope Town and perhaps climb its candy stripe lighthouse for amazing views, then continue to Man-O-War Cay. Drop anchor and check out its pastel-coloured wooden houses or if you acquired a licence, perhaps enjoy a spot of fishing. Next up: Great Guana Cay. If it’s beautiful white sand beaches look
familiar, its because they frequently grace the pages of glossy travel magazines. Surrounded by coral reefs, Guana Cay is the perfect place to snorkel. The island is also home to Loggerhead, Green and Hawksbill turtles, as well as a number of species endemic to the Abacos. In beautiful Noname Cay you won’t spot any locals (there is no formal settlement here), but you will find a tiny slice of paradise. Sail to Green Turtle Cay and wander to New Plymouth – a quaint village dotted with beautiful wooden bungalows. Be sure to try the Goombay Smash, a rum-based cocktail made to a secret recipe. Finish up at Treasure Cay, home to one of the most spectacular beaches in the Caribbean. Take advantage of this last opportunity to swim, paddleboard and kayak in glorious clear waters. Day 7 Marsh Harbour Finish up in Marsh Harbour, where this sailing adventure comes to an end.
102 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/bahamas
Great Guana Cay Man-O-War Cay Elbow Cay
Great Abaco Island
ITMC
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Maximum group size 8 Overnight boat (6 nts) 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners Orana 44 (catamaran), Zodiac DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
Selected Sundays from March to July Enter ITMC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices
Meet the Fleet Catamarans are our vessel of choice when it comes to sailing in the Caribbean. The catamarans we use have four cabins with ensuite bathrooms, kitchen and living area, snorkels for ocean exploring and a comfy deck to stretch out on. You can find out more about our fleet, including detailed deck plans and photo galleries, on our website at intrepidtravel.com/sailing
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Intrepid Sailing Salina 48 Evolution
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